Monitoring system and monitoring method

Abstract

A monitoring system for monitoring a belt conveyor and detecting abnormalities includes a wireless tag attached to an idler roller that guides an endless belt for transporting an object to be transported, and a data acquisition device that acquires data from the wireless tag, and the idler roller is the monitored object. The wireless tag has a memory unit that stores identification information, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the idler roller and outputs temperature data corresponding to the temperature, and a communication unit that transmits the temperature data output by the temperature sensor and the identification information. The monitoring system monitors the monitored object based on the temperature data and identification information acquired by the data acquisition device, which are transported by the endless belt.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a monitoring system and a monitoring method. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art In mines and the like, conveyor systems are sometimes used as a means for transporting mined resources. Conveyor systems for transporting mined resources transport the mined resources over long distances.

[0003] Incidentally, there is known a technology in which RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags are attached to articles transported by a belt conveyor, and an article position detection device is provided near the transport path to detect the position of the articles (for example, Patent Document 1). Another technology is known in which RFID tags are attached to articles transported by a belt conveyor, and a plurality of antennas are used to determine the transport order of the articles (for example, Patent Document 2). Another technology is known in which ID tags are attached to articles transported, an ID tag reader is provided near the transport line, and a moving mechanism is provided to movably support the antenna for reading information from the ID tag (for example, Patent Document 3). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-146173 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-28470 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-32069 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Belt conveyors are primarily operated in outdoor environments. If an abnormality occurs in the bearings supporting the rotating shaft of an idler roller, the idler roller may stick and stop, potentially igniting due to friction with the conveyor belt. A belt conveyor stoppage impacts production plans. Therefore, inspections of the belt conveyor, including its rotating parts and areas where friction is a concern, are essential. In mining applications, such as mines, the total length can be several kilometers. Even assuming three idler rollers are placed every meter, a considerable number of idler rollers must be inspected. One option is to attach sensors to each idler roller for monitoring. However, this approach is not desirable due to the long, complicated wiring required to acquire the data detected by each sensor and the resulting high costs.

[0006] The techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 to 3 can detect the position of an article being conveyed, but they cannot monitor the belt conveyor device and detect abnormalities.

[0007] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object of the present invention is to provide a monitoring system and a monitoring method that can receive data from wireless tags well, monitor a belt conveyor device, and detect abnormalities. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, a monitoring system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a wireless tag provided on an idler roller that guides an endless belt for transporting an object to be transported, and a data acquisition device that acquires data from the wireless tag, and the idler roller is an object to be monitored, wherein the wireless tag has a memory unit that stores identification information, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the idler roller and outputs temperature data corresponding to the temperature, and a communication unit that transmits the temperature data output by the temperature sensor and the identification information, and the data acquisition device: While being transported by the endless belt,The temperature data and the identification information are acquired, and the monitoring target is monitored based on the temperature data and the identification information acquired by the data acquisition device.

[0010] It is preferable that the idler roller includes a fixed shaft, a roller portion that contacts the endless belt and rotates around the fixed shaft, and a bearing that supports the roller portion rotatably relative to the fixed shaft, and that the temperature sensor detects the temperature of the fixed shaft.

[0011] It is preferable that the wireless tag is provided at a position on the fixed shaft opposite the endless band, the temperature sensor detects the temperature of the fixed shaft, and the data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information from the wireless tag via the endless band.

[0012] The wireless tag may include a power supply unit that supplies power, and the wireless tag may operate using the power supplied by the power supply unit.

[0013] The wireless tag may not include a power supply unit for supplying power, and may operate using power supplied from the data acquisition device when the data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information.

[0014] The communication unit may output radio waves that transmit the temperature data output by the temperature sensor and the identification information, and the radio waves are carried by the endless band.The data acquisition device may pass through a range of distances where the radio waves can be received via the endless band, and monitor the monitored object based on the temperature data and the identification information acquired by the data acquisition device.

[0015] The transport speed of the data acquisition device by the endless belt may be set to a speed at which the data acquisition device can acquire the temperature data and the identification information.

[0016] The system may include a plurality of idler rollers, and the wireless tag may be provided on each of the plurality of idler rollers. The transport speed of the data acquisition device via the endless belt may be set so that the data acquisition device can acquire the temperature data and the identification information from a number of wireless tags provided on each of the plurality of idler rollers that is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0017] It is preferable that the data acquisition device is housed in a box, cushioning material is provided between the inner surface of the material constituting the box and the data acquisition device inside the box, the box housing the data acquisition device is transported by the endless belt, and the monitored object is monitored based on the temperature data and identification information acquired by the data acquisition device via the cushioning material.

[0018] It is preferable that the endless belt conveys a plurality of the objects, and that the box be placed between the plurality of objects on the endless belt.

[0019] The data acquisition device preferably has an antenna for acquiring the temperature data and the identification information, and the data acquisition device is preferably housed in the box so that the antenna is facing toward the wireless tag.

[0020] The box is preferably made of resin.

[0021] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems and achieve the object, a monitoring method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a monitoring method using a monitoring system including a wireless tag provided on an idler roller that guides an endless belt for transporting an object to be transported, and a data acquisition device that acquires data from the wireless tag, wherein the idler roller is a monitoring object, the wireless tag has a memory unit that stores identification information, a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the idler roller and outputs temperature data corresponding to the temperature, and a communication unit that transmits the temperature data output by the temperature sensor and the identification information, and the data acquisition device is a monitoring method using a monitoring system transported by the endless belt, the monitoring method comprising: This monitoring method includes a setting step of setting the transport speed of the data acquisition device using the endless band, a counting step of counting the number of wireless tags from which the temperature data and identification information can be acquired by the data acquisition device transported at the transport speed set in the setting step, and a changing step of changing the transport speed when the number of wireless tags counted in the counting step exceeds a predetermined threshold, and when the number of wireless tags counted in the counting step is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold, the current transport speed is set as the future transport speed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present disclosure, data from wireless tags can be received well, a belt conveyor device can be monitored, and abnormalities can be detected. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a monitoring system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a monitoring target by the monitoring system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the idler roller in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a data receiving range of a wireless tag. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a data receiving range of a wireless tag. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data reception range of the wireless tag when the idler roller is viewed from the direction of the fixed shaft shown in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of a wireless tag. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the wireless tag in the monitoring system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the tag reader device of the monitoring system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the monitoring terminal device of the monitoring system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of data that the tag reader device acquires from the wireless tag. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a monitoring system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11A] FIG. 11A is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the wireless tag in the monitoring system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the tag reader device of the monitoring system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 11C] FIG. 11C is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the monitoring terminal device of the monitoring system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a modified example of the monitoring system of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the travel distance of the tag reader device per measurement relative to the operating speed of the conveyor belt. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flow chart illustrating an example of a method for setting the operating speed of a conveyor belt in a monitoring system. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a tag reader device housed in a box. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a tag reader device housed in a box. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of how tag reader devices are housed in a box. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of transportation by a belt conveyor device. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of transportation by a belt conveyor device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description of each embodiment, components that are the same as or equivalent to those in other embodiments will be given the same reference numerals, and their description will be simplified or omitted. The present invention is not limited to each embodiment. Furthermore, the components of each embodiment include those that are easily replaceable by those skilled in the art, or those that are substantially the same. The configurations described below can be combined as appropriate. Omissions, substitutions, or modifications of the configurations can be made within the scope of the invention.

[0025] (First embodiment) Fig. 1 is a diagram showing a monitoring system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. In Fig. 1, the monitoring system 100 includes a wireless tag 10, a tag reader device 20, and a monitoring terminal device 30. The wireless tag 10 is provided at an object to be monitored by the monitoring system 100. The tag reader device 20 can acquire data from the wireless tag 10. The tag reader device 20 can also write data to the wireless tag 10. The tag reader device 20 corresponds to a data acquisition device of the present disclosure.

[0026] (Radio tag) The wireless tag 10 includes an antenna 11, a temperature sensor 12, a control unit 13, and a power supply unit 14. The control unit 13 includes a communication unit 131 and a storage unit 132. The wireless tag 10 is, for example, an RFID tag.

[0027] The antenna 11 is a transmitting and receiving antenna. That is, the antenna 11 functions as both a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna. For example, the inverted F antenna structure described in Japanese Patent No. 4990858 can be applied to the antenna 11. In this case, the antenna 11 can communicate even when a metal member is nearby.

[0028] The temperature sensor 12 detects temperature. Specifically, the temperature sensor 12 detects the temperature of the monitoring target to which the wireless tag 10 is attached. For example, as will be described later, the temperature sensor 12 detects abnormal temperatures caused by heat generation from the fixed shaft. The temperature detected by the temperature sensor 12 is stored as temperature data in the memory unit 132 of the control unit 13. In other words, the temperature sensor 12 outputs temperature data corresponding to the temperature.

[0029] The communication unit 131 can receive data wirelessly via the antenna 11. The communication unit 131 outputs a transmission radio wave for transmitting temperature data and identification information. The communication unit 131 can transmit data wirelessly via the antenna 11.

[0030] The storage unit 132 stores identification information 1320 for identifying the wireless tag 10 itself. The storage unit 132 also stores the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 12 as temperature data. The data stored in the storage unit 132 can be read out.

[0031] The power supply unit 14 supplies power to each component within the wireless tag 10. In other words, the wireless tag 10 includes the power supply unit 14 that supplies power, and the wireless tag 10 operates on the power supplied by the power supply unit 14. The power supply unit 14 is, for example, a primary battery. Because power is supplied from the power supply unit 14, the wireless tag 10 can detect temperature using the temperature sensor 12 and store the temperature data in the memory unit 132.

[0032] When a data read signal is transmitted from tag reader device 20, wireless tag 10 reads the data stored in memory unit 132 and transmits it to tag reader device 20. At this time, communication unit 131 of wireless tag 10 transmits the temperature data and identification information to tag reader device 20 in association with each other.

[0033] (tag reader device) The tag reader device 20 includes an antenna 21, a control unit 22, and a power supply unit 23.

[0034] The antenna 21 is a transmitting and receiving antenna, that is, the antenna 21 functions as both a transmitting antenna and a receiving antenna.

[0035] The control unit 22 has a communication unit 221, a storage unit 222, a reading unit 223, and a writing unit 224. The communication unit 221 can wirelessly transmit and receive data to and from the wireless tag 10 via the antenna 21. The communication unit 221 can also transmit and receive data to and from the monitoring terminal device 30 via the network NW. The tag reader device 20 can transmit temperature data from the temperature sensor 12 of the wireless tag 10 to the monitoring terminal device 30. The network NW may be a wireless LAN (Local Area Network).

[0036] Storage unit 222 stores data acquired by communication unit 221. Storage unit 222 stores the temperature data and identification information acquired by communication unit 221 in association with each other. Storage unit 222 also stores various data necessary for the operation of tag reader device 20.

[0037] The reading unit 223 can receive data transmitted from the wireless tag 10 using the antenna 21 and the communication unit 221, and can read data stored in the wireless tag 10. This allows the tag reader device 20 to acquire data from the wireless tag 10.

[0038] The reading unit 223 can simultaneously perform wireless communication with a plurality of wireless tags 10 and simultaneously acquire each temperature data from a plurality of wireless tags 10. At this time, each temperature data is acquired in a state in which it is associated with the identification information of each wireless tag 10. The tag reader device 20 associates each temperature data from a plurality of temperature sensors with the identification information of each wireless tag 10 and stores the data in the storage unit 222.

[0039] The writing unit 224 can transmit data to the wireless tag 10 using the antenna 21 and the communication unit 221. This allows the tag reader device 20 to write data to the wireless tag 10.

[0040] The power supply unit 23 supplies power to each unit in the tag reader device 20. The power supply unit 23 is, for example, a primary battery.

[0041] (Monitoring terminal device) Monitoring terminal device 30 includes a communication unit 31, a storage unit 32, a control unit 33, and a power supply unit 34. Communication unit 31 can transmit and receive data to and from tag reader device 20 via network NW. Monitoring terminal device 30 may be provided near tag reader device 20 or in a remote location.

[0042] The memory unit 32 stores data acquired by the tag reader device 20 from the wireless tag 10. The control unit 33 includes, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), read-only memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), an input interface, and an output interface (not shown). The CPU, ROM, and RAM are connected via an internal bus (not shown). The ROM stores programs such as BIOS. The CPU uses the RAM as a work area and executes programs stored in the ROM or memory unit 32 to realize various functions. The control unit 33 can perform editing, such as classification and rearrangement, on the data stored in the memory unit 32. The power supply unit 34 supplies power to each unit of the monitoring terminal device 30.

[0043] (Examples of monitored objects) Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an object to be monitored by the monitoring system. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing a case where an idler roller provided in a belt conveyor is the object to be monitored. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the idler roller in Fig. 2. Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the belt conveyor 200 cut along the center of the fixed shaft of the idler roller in Fig. 2.

[0044] In Fig. 2, a belt conveyor apparatus 200 is used to transport mined resources, for example, in a mine. The belt conveyor apparatus 200 transports an object to be transported, such as mined resources, in the direction of arrow Y1. The belt conveyor apparatus 200 includes a conveyor belt CB. Fig. 2 shows only the outline of the conveyor belt CB to make it easier to understand the configuration of the underside of the conveyor belt CB of the belt conveyor apparatus 200.

[0045] The conveyor belt CB is, for example, a rubber belt. It is preferable to use a conveyor belt made of a material other than rubber whose relative permittivity, based on the permittivity of air, is 8 or less, preferably 5 or less. The relative permittivity of rubber is between 2 and 5. If the inclusion is water, the relative permittivity is 80, making communication impossible. If the material is rubber, communication quality does not deteriorate significantly, and communication between the tag reader device and the wireless tag is possible. The conveyor belt CB is driven by a drive unit (e.g., a motor) not shown. The conveyor belt CB corresponds to the endless belt of the present disclosure. The conveyor belt CB conveys objects placed on its surface in the direction of arrow Y1 (Y-axis direction).

[0046] In FIG. 2, idler rollers 60L, 60C, and 60R are provided below the conveyor belt CB of the belt conveyor device 200, i.e., on the negative side in the Z-axis direction. Hereinafter, the idler rollers 60L, 60C, and 60R may be collectively referred to as "idler rollers 60." In FIG. 2, the idler rollers 60L, 60C, and 60R form one set, and multiple sets (four sets in this example) of idler rollers 60 are lined up in the Y-axis direction. The length of the conveyor belt CB in the conveying direction (Y-axis direction) is much longer than the length in the width direction (X-axis direction). The length of the conveyor belt CB in the conveying direction is, for example, several kilometers. Along the length of the conveyor belt CB in the conveying direction, a set of idler rollers 60 is provided, for example, every 1 meter.

[0047] The idler roller 60 includes a fixed shaft 41, a roller portion 50, and a bearing 42. The roller portion 50 is rotatably supported on the fixed shaft 41 by the bearing 42. The roller portion 50 is substantially cylindrical, with a curved side surface. The roller portion 50 can rotate around the fixed shaft 41.

[0048] Idler roller 60C is disposed below the center of the conveyor belt CB in the width direction (X-axis direction). Idler rollers 60L and 60R are disposed on either side of idler roller 60C in the X-axis direction. When the weight of the conveyed object is heavy, conveyor belt CB bends downward (Z-axis direction), i.e., in the direction approaching roller unit 50. When the side surface of roller unit 50 comes into contact with the underside of conveyor belt CB, friction with conveyor belt CB causes roller unit 50 to rotate around fixed shaft 41.

[0049] Focusing on the idler rollers 60L and 60R, the ends farther from the idler roller 60C are raised upward (in the Z-axis direction) in the figure. In other words, the idler rollers 60 are arranged so as to support the lower part of the conveyor belt CB from three directions. This allows the conveyor belt CB to be conveyed in the direction of arrow Y1 while being centered in the width direction. Therefore, an object placed on the surface of the conveyor belt CB can be conveyed while being prevented from spilling over the edge of the conveyor belt CB in the width direction. In other words, the idler rollers 60 guide the conveyor belt CB, allowing the conveyor belt CB to convey the object.

[0050] The conveyor belt CB originally transports materials such as mined resources. In the present disclosure, the conveyor belt CB also transports the tag reader device 20. That is, the tag reader device 20 is transported by the conveyor belt CB in a state in which it can acquire data from the wireless tag. To prevent damage to the tag reader device 20 when it is transported by the conveyor belt CB, it is preferable to transport the tag reader device 20 housed in a box body B1. In particular, since there is a possibility that the tag reader device 20 may be damaged if it comes into contact with the mined materials, it is preferable to house it in the box body B1 for protection.

[0051] When storing tag reader device 20 in box B1, it is preferable that tag reader device 20 is stored in box B1 so that antenna 21 is located on the conveyor belt CB side, i.e., on the side closer to idler roller 60. By storing tag reader device 20 in box B1 so that antenna 21 is located on the side closer to idler roller 60, tag reader device 20 can receive data from wireless tag 10 under good conditions. Note that tag reader device 20 is not limited to being stored in a box, and may be transported covered with a protective cover.

[0052] A wireless tag 10 is attached to the end of the fixed shaft 41. As described with reference to FIG. 1, the wireless tag 10 has a temperature sensor 12. Therefore, the wireless tag 10 can detect the temperature of the fixed shaft 41 and transmit the detected temperature together with identification information to the tag reader device 20. A box B1 is placed on the surface of the conveyor belt CB and is transported in the direction of arrow Y1. The tag reader device 20 is housed inside the box B1. The tag reader device 20 is housed inside the box B1 so that the position of the antenna 21 is close to the conveyor belt CB.

[0053] In Figure 3, conveyor belt CB moves from the rear to the front of the drawing. Therefore, the object to be conveyed is conveyed from the rear to the front of the drawing. Tag reader device 20L being conveyed passes between idler rollers 60C and 60L in the width direction of conveyor belt CB. At this time, antenna 21 of tag reader device 20L emits radio waves 210 while passing through the data reception range of wireless tags 10L and 10CL.

[0054] Here, the conveyor belt CB is made of rubber and has a relatively low dielectric constant. Therefore, radio waves 210 pass through the conveyor belt CB and reach the wireless tags 10L and 10CL. The tag reader device 20L can communicate with the wireless tags 10L and 10CL via the conveyor belt CB. Therefore, the tag reader device 20L can acquire data from the wireless tag 10L attached to the fixed shaft 41L and the wireless tag 10CL attached to the fixed shaft 41C via the conveyor belt CB. Therefore, the tag reader device 20L can simultaneously acquire data from multiple wireless tags 10L and 10CL. Note that the box body B1 is not shown in FIG. 3.

[0055] 3, tag reader device 20R passes between idler roller 60C and idler roller 60R in the width direction of conveyor belt CB. At this time, antenna 21 of tag reader device 20R passes through the data reception range of wireless tags 10R and 10CR. Therefore, tag reader device 20R can acquire data from wireless tag 10R attached to fixed shaft 41R and wireless tag 10CR attached to fixed shaft 41C. In other words, tag reader device 20R can simultaneously acquire data from multiple wireless tags 10R and 10CR. In this example, two tag readers 20L and 20R are used, but only one tag reader may be used as long as it can acquire data from each wireless tag. Hereinafter, tag readers 20L and 20R may be collectively referred to as "tag reader device 20."

[0056] 4 and 5 are diagrams showing examples of the data reception range of the wireless tag 10. As shown in FIG. 4, when the wireless tag 10 is attached to one end of the fixed shaft 41, a data reception range 120 is generated in the Z-axis direction from the wireless tag 10. For example, for the fixed shafts 41L and 41R shown in FIG. 3, the data reception range 120 is generated in the Z-axis direction from one end of the fixed shaft 41L and one end of the fixed shaft 41R, as shown in FIG. 4. A tag reader device 20 passing through the data reception range 120 can receive data from the wireless tag 10. That is, the wireless tag 10 outputs a transmission radio wave for transmitting temperature data and identification information, and the data reception range 120 is the range of distance within which the transmission radio wave can be received via the conveyor belt CB.

[0057] On the other hand, when a wireless tag 10 is provided at each end of the fixed shaft 41 as shown in Fig. 5, separate data reception ranges 120 are generated in the Z-axis direction from the wireless tags 10 at each end. For example, for the fixed shaft 41C shown in Fig. 3, data reception ranges 120 are generated in the Z-axis direction from each end of the fixed shaft 41C as shown in Fig. 5. A tag reader device 20 passing through the data reception range 120 can receive data from the wireless tag 10.

[0058] 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data reception range of the wireless tag 10 when the idler roller 60 is viewed from the direction of the fixed shaft 41 (X-axis direction) shown in FIG. 6. As shown in FIG. 6, a data reception range 120 is generated in the Z-axis direction from the wireless tag 10. The data reception range 120 passes through the conveyor belt CB and is generated on the surface side of the conveyor belt CB. When the tag reader device 20 passes through this data reception range 120 in the direction of arrow Y1 (Y-axis direction), the tag reader device 20 can receive data from the wireless tag 10.

[0059] (Radio tag) 7 is a diagram showing an example of the appearance of the wireless tag 10. The exterior of the wireless tag 10 is made by, for example, resin molding. By using resin molding, the tag can withstand adverse environments such as being affected by wind and rain.

[0060] The wireless tag 10 shown in Fig. 7 has a main body 140 and through holes 141, 142 provided at both ends thereof. The main body 140 is provided with the components shown in Fig. 1. By providing screw holes in a fixed shaft 41 (see Fig. 3) to which the wireless tag 10 is attached, the wireless tag 10 can be screwed to the fixed shaft 41 using the through holes 141, 142. By fixing the wireless tag 10 to the fixed shaft 41 with screws, the temperature of the fixed shaft 41 can be detected. By detecting the temperature of the fixed shaft 41, the temperature of the bearing 42 can be estimated.

[0061] 7 has protrusions 143a, 143b, 144a, and 144b at four corners. The protrusions 143a, 143b, 144a, and 144b protrude in the Z-axis direction. The main body 140 also protrudes in the Z-axis direction. Therefore, recesses 143 are formed between the main body 140 and the protrusions 143a and 143b. Recesses 144 are formed between the main body 140 and the protrusions 144a and 144b. The wireless tag 10 can be fixed to the fixed shaft 41 by wrapping and fastening a fastener (not shown) such as a cable tie around the fixed shaft 41 and the recesses 143, and around the fixed shaft 41 (see FIG. 3) and the recesses 144. By fixing the wireless tag 10 to the fixed shaft 41, the temperature of the fixed shaft 41 can be detected. By detecting the temperature of the fixed shaft 41, the temperature of the bearing 42 can be estimated. The wireless tag 10 may be fixed to the fixed shaft 41 using double-sided tape or adhesive tape instead of or in addition to the fixing tool.

[0062] (Example of operation) 8A to 8C are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the monitoring system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0063] Fig. 8A shows an example of the operation of the wireless tag 10 of the monitoring system 100. Fig. 8B shows an example of the operation of the tag reader device 20 of the monitoring system 100. Fig. 8C shows an example of the operation of the monitoring terminal device 30 of the monitoring system 100.

[0064] In FIG. 8A, the wireless tag 10 acquires temperature data from the temperature sensor 12 in advance (step S101) and stores it in the storage unit 132 (step S102).

[0065] Thereafter, it is determined whether a data read signal has been received from the tag reader device 20 to the wireless tag 10 (step S103). If it is determined in step S103 that a data read signal has been received (Yes in step S103), the wireless tag 10 acquires temperature data from the temperature sensor 12 (step S104) and reads the temperature data and identification information stored in the storage unit 132 (step S105). The wireless tag 10 transmits the temperature data together with the identification information (step S106). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S103 that a data read signal has not been received (No in step S103), the process returns to step S101, and continues acquiring the temperature data (step S101) and storing it in the storage unit 132 (step S102). In FIG. 8B, the tag reader device 20 transmits a data read signal to the wireless tag 10 (step S201). Next, tag reader device 20 determines whether or not data has been transmitted from wireless tag 10 (step S202). If it is determined in step S202 that data has been transmitted from wireless tag 10 (Yes in step S202), tag reader device 20 receives the data (step S203).

[0066] Tag reader device 20 stores the received temperature data and identification information in storage unit 222 (step S204). Tag reader device 20 determines whether or not to transmit the data stored in storage unit 222 to monitoring terminal device 30 (step S205). If it is determined in step S205 that data is to be transmitted (Yes in step S205), tag reader device 20 transmits the temperature data and identification information (step S206). If it is determined in step S205 that data is not to be transmitted, the process returns to step S201, and tag reader device 20 transmits a data read signal (step S201). If it is determined in step S202 that there is no transmission from wireless tag 10 (No in step S202), the process returns to step S201, and tag reader device 20 transmits a data read signal (step S201). In FIG. 8C, monitoring terminal device 30 determines whether or not data has been transmitted from tag reader device 20 (step S301). If it is determined in step S301 that data has been transmitted from tag reader device 20 (Yes in step S301), monitoring terminal device 30 receives it (step S302). Monitoring terminal device 30 stores the received temperature data and identification information in storage unit 32 (step S303). If it is determined in step S301 that data has not been transmitted from tag reader device 20 (No in step S301), the process returns to step S301 and determines whether data has been transmitted from tag reader device 20 (step S301). Through the above processing, monitoring terminal device 30 can acquire the temperature data and identification information, and can perform editing such as classification and rearrangement on the data stored in storage unit 32. By utilizing the data stored in storage unit 32, it is possible to monitor the monitoring target.

[0067] (Timing of data transmission) 8, the temperature data and identification information are transmitted from tag reader device 20 to monitoring terminal device 30. These data may be read from memory unit 222 and transmitted collectively after tag reader device 20 has received data from wireless tags 10 on all idler rollers 60, i.e., after passing the entire length of the belt conveyor, or may be transmitted each time tag reader device 20 receives data from wireless tags 10 on idler rollers 60. The data may be transmitted at regular time intervals, or may be transmitted collectively when the amount of data stored in memory unit 222 reaches a predetermined threshold.

[0068] (Example of temperature data) Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of data acquired by tag reader device 20 from wireless tag 10. Fig. 9 shows an example of data transmitted from tag reader device 20 to monitoring terminal device 30 and stored in memory unit 32. The data shown in Fig. 9 includes an example of the measured temperature of each bearing. Management terminal device 30 can edit the data acquired from wireless tag 10 and display the content shown in Fig. 9 on the screen of a display unit (not shown).

[0069] 9, the RFID identification information "rfid0001," "rfid0002," etc. are associated with other data and stored in the storage unit 32. For example, the identification information "rfid0001" is associated with the acquisition time (i.e., year, month, day, hour, minute), the serial number (s / n) which is the bearing's identification information (ID), and the measured temperature from the temperature data. In this example, the identification information is further associated with the date and details of the previous maintenance (e.g., grease refill, checklist included), the date and details of the next recommended maintenance, the date of operation start, the date and details of the past maintenance history, and the device name, unit name, and measured temperature which are device information.

[0070] The unit name is information for identifying the fixed axis 41 described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5. For example, it is "axis 1-1," "axis 1-2," "axis 1-3," "axis 1-4," "axis 2-1," "axis 2-2," "axis 3-1," "axis 3-2," "axis 3-3," or "axis 3-4." In this way, like the transported objects, data can be acquired from each wireless tag 10 by transporting the tag reader device 20 on the conveyor belt CB. If a worker carrying the tag reader device 20 moves to acquire data from each wireless tag 10, work efficiency is poor if the transport path is long. Therefore, by acquiring data from each wireless tag 10 while transporting the tag reader device 20, as in the present embodiment, work efficiency is improved.

[0071] (Second embodiment) FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a monitoring system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 10, the monitoring system 100a according to the second embodiment differs from the monitoring system 100 according to the first embodiment in that it includes a wireless tag 10a that does not include a power supply unit. The wireless tag 10a operates using power based on electromagnetic waves transmitted by a tag reader device 20. That is, when the antenna 11 of the wireless tag 10a receives electromagnetic waves transmitted from the tag reader device 20, a current is induced by the received electromagnetic waves and flows. The wireless tag 10a operates using this current as its power source. That is, the wireless tag 10a does not include a power supply unit for supplying power, but operates using power supplied from the tag reader device 20 when the tag reader device 20 acquires temperature data and identification information. By using a wireless tag 10a that does not include a power supply unit, the system can be realized at a lower cost than the monitoring system 100 according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, maintenance such as replacing the battery, which serves as the power supply unit, is not required, making maintenance easier.

[0072] In the monitoring system according to the first embodiment described above, the temperature sensor 12 of each wireless tag 10 detects the temperature, for example, at a predetermined cycle, and the temperature is sequentially stored in the storage unit 132. When a data read signal is transmitted from the tag reader device 20 to the wireless tag 10, the stored temperature data and identification information are transmitted from the wireless tag 10 to the tag reader device 20.

[0073] In contrast, in the monitoring system 100a according to the second embodiment, when a data read signal is transmitted from the tag reader device 20 to the wireless tag 10, the temperature is detected by the temperature sensor 12. That is, the wireless tag 10 operates using power based on the electromagnetic waves of the read signal, and the temperature is detected by the temperature sensor 12. Other operations of the monitoring system 100a are the same as those of the monitoring system 100 according to the first embodiment.

[0074] (Example of operation) 11A to 11C are flowcharts showing an example of the operation of the monitoring system 100a according to the second embodiment.

[0075] Fig. 11A shows an example of the operation of the wireless tag 10 of the monitoring system 100a, Fig. 11B shows an example of the operation of the tag reader device 20 of the monitoring system 100a, and Fig. 11C shows an example of the operation of the monitoring terminal device 30 of the monitoring system 100a.

[0076] 11A, it is determined whether a data read signal has been received from the tag reader device 20 to the wireless tag 10 (step S103). If it is determined in step S103 that a data read signal has been received (Yes in step S103), the wireless tag 10 acquires temperature data from the temperature sensor 12 (step S104) and reads the identification information stored in the storage unit 132 (step S105a). The wireless tag 10 transmits the temperature data together with the identification information (step S106). On the other hand, if it is determined in step S103 that a data read signal has not been received (No in step S103), the process returns to step S101, and continues acquiring the temperature data (step S101) and storing the temperature data in the storage unit 132 (step S102). In FIG. 11B, the tag reader device 20 transmits a data read signal to the wireless tag 10 (step S201). Next, tag reader device 20 determines whether or not data has been transmitted from wireless tag 10 (step S202). If it is determined in step S202 that data has been transmitted from wireless tag 10 (Yes in step S202), tag reader device 20 receives the data (step S203).

[0077] The subsequent operations are the same as those of tag reader device 20 of monitoring system 100 described with reference to FIG. 8B. That is, tag reader device 20 stores the received temperature data and identification information in storage unit 222 (step S204). Tag reader device 20 determines whether or not to transmit the data stored in storage unit 222 to monitoring terminal device 30 (step S205). If it is determined in step S205 that the data is to be transmitted (Yes in step S205), tag reader device 20 transmits the temperature data and identification information (step S206). If it is determined in step S205 that the data is not to be transmitted, the process returns to step S201, and tag reader device 20 transmits a data read signal (step S201). If it is determined in step S202 that there is no transmission from wireless tag 10 (No in step S202), the process returns to step S201, and tag reader device 20 transmits a data read signal (step S201). The operation of the monitoring terminal device 30 is the same as the operation of the monitoring terminal device 30 of the monitoring system 100 described with reference to FIG. 8C. That is, in FIG. 11C, the monitoring terminal device 30 determines whether or not data has been transmitted from the tag reader device 20 (step S301). If it is determined in step S301 that data has been transmitted from the tag reader device 20 (Yes in step S301), the monitoring terminal device 30 receives the data (step S302). The monitoring terminal device 30 stores the received temperature data and identification information in the storage unit 32 (step S303). If it is determined in step S301 that no data has been transmitted from the tag reader device 20 (No in step S301), the process returns to step S301, where it determines whether or not data has been transmitted from the tag reader device 20 (step S301). The monitoring terminal device 30 can acquire the temperature data and identification information through the above processing, and can perform editing, such as classification and rearrangement, on the data stored in the storage unit 32. By utilizing the data stored in the storage unit 32, the monitoring target can be monitored.

[0078] 8B and step S301 in Fig. 8C, the temperature data and identification information are transmitted from tag reader device 20 to monitoring terminal device 30. These data may be read from memory unit 222 and transmitted collectively after tag reader device 20 has received data from wireless tags 10 on all idler rollers 60, i.e., after passing the entire length of the belt conveyor, or may be transmitted each time tag reader device 20 receives data from wireless tags 10 on idler rollers 60. The data may be transmitted at regular time intervals, or may be transmitted collectively when the amount of data stored in memory unit 222 reaches a predetermined threshold.

[0079] (Variation) FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the monitoring system of the present disclosure. The monitoring system of FIG. 12 differs from FIG. 3 in that there are two idler rollers 60 below the conveyor belt CB. That is, in FIG. 3, three idler rollers 60L, 60C, and 60R are provided below the conveyor belt CB. In contrast, in FIG. 12, two idler rollers 60L and 60R are provided. Even with this configuration, tag reader device 20 can receive data from wireless tags 10L and 10R via the conveyor belt CB by passing within the data reception range above wireless tag 10L attached to fixed shaft 41L of idler roller 60L and wireless tag 10R attached to fixed shaft 41R of idler roller 60R. Note that box B1 is not shown in FIG. 12.

[0080] In FIG. 3, the wireless tag 10CL is attached to one end of the fixed shaft 41C of the idler roller 60C, and the wireless tag 10CR is attached to the other end. However, the wireless tag 10 may be attached only to one end. The wireless tag 10L is attached to the side of the fixed shaft 41L of the idler roller 60L, closer to the fixed shaft 41C, i.e., closer to the center of the width of the conveyor belt CB. However, the wireless tag 10L may be attached to the side farther from the center of the width of the conveyor belt CB. However, the wireless tag 10R must be located in a position where it can be received by the tag reader device 20L. The wireless tag 10R is attached to the side of the fixed shaft 41R of the idler roller 60R, closer to the fixed shaft 41C, i.e., closer to the center of the width of the conveyor belt CB. However, the wireless tag 10R may be located in a position farther from the center of the width of the conveyor belt CB. However, the wireless tag 10R must be located in a position where it can be received by the tag reader device 20R. To ensure stable transmission and reception, the wireless tag is preferably attached to a fixed surface.

[0081] The tag reader device 20 may be transported by a conveyor belt CB in a state in which it can acquire data from the wireless tag, or it may acquire data from the wireless tag based on instructions input from an external device such as a monitoring terminal device 30.

[0082] 1 and other figures, a temperature sensor is used in this disclosure, but a sensor that detects vibration, strain, or pressure may be used instead of or together with the temperature sensor. Abnormalities can also be detected using these sensors.

[0083] By transporting the tag reader device 20 along with the transported objects and acquiring data from the wireless tags 10, it is possible to acquire data on the locations and temperatures of the idler rollers arranged throughout the belt conveyor. This makes it possible to monitor the belt conveyor and detect abnormalities. By using wireless tags without a power supply, as in the second embodiment, there is no need to replace the power supply. Furthermore, wireless tags without a power supply are inexpensive, and it is preferable to use wireless tags without a power supply when a large number of tags need to be installed.

[0084] Now, let us refer to Figure 6 again. As shown in Figure 6, the data reception range 120 of the wireless tag 10 has an upper limit distance RS1, which is the farthest distance at which reception is possible, and a lower limit distance RS2, which is the closest distance at which reception is possible. Data can be received well when the antenna 21 of the tag reader device 20 passes through the range between the upper limit distance RS1 and the lower limit distance RS2.

[0085] In FIG. 6, if the tag reader device 20 is transported in the direction of the arrow Y1 while maintaining the appropriate distance RS0 from the wireless tag 10, the distance traveled between the upper limit distance RS1 and the lower limit distance RS2 can be increased. By increasing the distance traveled between the upper limit distance RS1 and the lower limit distance RS2, data can be received more efficiently. By increasing the distance traveled between the upper limit distance RS1 and the lower limit distance RS2 and appropriately setting the time required for travel, data can be received even more efficiently. To appropriately set the time required for travel, the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB must be appropriately set. Setting the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB will be described later.

[0086] (Setting the conveyor belt operating speed) 11A, when a data read signal is transmitted from tag reader device 20 to wireless tag 10, wireless tag 10 acquires temperature data from temperature sensor 12. Since tag reader device 20 is transported by conveyor belt CB, the operating speed of conveyor belt CB needs to be set appropriately. The operating speed of conveyor belt CB is the moving speed of the transported object transported by conveyor belt CB.

[0087] 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the travel distance of tag reader device 20 per measurement relative to the operating speed of conveyor belt CB. If the distance between antenna 21 of tag reader device 20 and wireless tag 10 is within the distance range between upper limit distance RS1 and lower limit distance RS2 described with reference to FIG. 6, tag reader device 20 can successfully acquire data from wireless tag 10.

[0088] 13, when the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB is 100 m / min, the distance is approximately 1.667 m / sec, or approximately 1.667 mm / msec. If the measurement and communication time of the wireless tag 10 is 3 msec, the moving distance per measurement is 5 mm.

[0089] 13, when the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB is 200 m / min, the distance is approximately 3.333 m / sec, or approximately 3.333 mm / msec. Therefore, if the measurement and communication time of the wireless tag 10 is 3 msec, the travel distance per measurement is 10 mm. When the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB is 300 m / min, the distance is 5.000 m / sec, or approximately 5.000 mm / msec. Therefore, if the measurement and communication time of the wireless tag 10 is 3 msec, the travel distance per measurement is 15 mm. Note that when the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB is 400 m / min, the distance is approximately 20 mm, or approximately 3.333 mm / msec. Therefore, if the measurement and communication time of the wireless tag 10 is 3 msec, the travel distance per measurement is 15 mm.

[0090] As described above, the moving distance per measurement of the wireless tag 10 varies depending on the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB. Therefore, in order to acquire temperature data from the wireless tag 10, it is necessary to appropriately set the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB.

[0091] Fig. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for setting the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB in the monitoring system. In Fig. 14, first, the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB is set (step S401). Next, the conveyor belt CB is operated at the speed set in step S401, the tag reader device 20 is transported, and reading of the wireless tags 10 is started (step S402). The tag reader device 20 counts the number of read wireless tags 10 (step S403).

[0092] The counting of the wireless tags 10 continues until the tag reader device 20 finishes reading the wireless tags 10 (No in step S404 -> step S403). Specifically, when the tag reader device 20 is transported to the end point by the conveyor belt CB, the reading of the wireless tags 10 finishes. When the reading of the wireless tags 10 finishes (Yes in step S404), it is determined whether the number of read wireless tags 10 is greater than a predetermined threshold (step S405).

[0093] If the result of the determination in step S405 is that the number of read wireless tags 10 is greater than the predetermined threshold (Yes in step S405), the speed of the conveyor belt CB is considered appropriate, and the current speed of the conveyor belt CB is stored (step S407). Thereafter, the tag reader device 20 is transported at the stored speed.

[0094] On the other hand, if the result of the determination in step S405 is that the number of read wireless tags 10 is equal to or less than the predetermined threshold (No in step S405), the speed of the conveyor belt CB is deemed inappropriate, so the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB of the belt conveyor device is changed (step S406). Then, the process returns to step S402, and the conveyor belt CB is operated at the changed operating speed. The tag reader device 20 is transported, and begins reading the wireless tags 10 (step S402). The tag reader device 20 counts the number of read wireless tags 10 (step S403). The subsequent processes are the same as those described above.

[0095] The process described with reference to FIG. 14 allows the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB to be appropriately set. In the second embodiment, the following monitoring method is employed. Specifically, the monitoring method includes a setting step (step S401) of setting the transport speed of the tag reader device 20, which is a data acquisition device, by the endless conveyor belt CB; a counting step (step S403) of counting the number of wireless tags 10 from which temperature data and identification information can be acquired by the tag reader device 20 transported at the transport speed set in the setting step; and a changing step (step S406) of changing the transport speed when the number of wireless tags 10 counted in the counting step is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. If the number of wireless tags counted in the counting step is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold, the current transport speed is set as the future transport speed. By setting the operating speed of the conveyor belt CB in this manner, the tag reader device 20 transported can acquire temperature data from the wireless tags 10.

[0096] (Storage inside the box) 15 and 16 are diagrams showing examples of tag reader devices housed in a box. In the example shown in Fig. 15, tag reader devices 20a and 20b are housed in box B2. The orientation of antenna 21a of tag reader device 20a is different from the orientation of antenna 21b of tag reader device 20b by 90 degrees. Therefore, whether the radio waves transmitted from wireless tag 10 are vertically polarized or horizontally polarized, data can be received well by at least one of tag reader device 20a and tag reader device 20b.

[0097] When box B2 is transported in the direction of arrow Y1, antenna 21a faces in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction. On the other hand, antenna 21b faces in a direction parallel to the transport direction, i.e., along the transport direction. Therefore, even if the orientation of box B2 changes during transport, the orientation of antenna 21a and the orientation of antenna 21b will still be 90 degrees different. This allows data to be received successfully by at least one of tag reader device 20a and tag reader device 20b.

[0098] 16, tag reader device 20c is housed in box B3. Tag reader device 20c is equipped with two antennas 21a and 21b. The orientation of antenna 21a and the orientation of antenna 21b differ by 90 degrees. Therefore, whether the radio waves transmitted from wireless tag 10 are vertically polarized or horizontally polarized, data can be received satisfactorily by either antenna 21a or 21b of tag reader device 20c.

[0099] When box B3 is transported in the direction of arrow Y1, antenna 21a faces in a direction perpendicular to the transport direction. Meanwhile, antenna 21b faces in a direction parallel to the transport direction, i.e., along the transport direction. Therefore, even if the orientation of box B3 changes during transport, the orientation of antenna 21a and the orientation of antenna 21b will still be 90 degrees different. This allows tag reader device 20c to receive data satisfactorily.

[0100] By transporting the tag reader device 20 along with the transported objects and acquiring data from the wireless tags 10, data on the locations and temperatures of the idler rollers arranged throughout the belt conveyor can be acquired. This allows the belt conveyor to be monitored and abnormalities to be detected. By using wireless tags without a power supply, as in the second embodiment, replacement of the power supply is unnecessary. Furthermore, wireless tags without a power supply are inexpensive, and it is preferable to use wireless tags without a power supply when multiple tags need to be installed. Furthermore, the tag reader device can receive data from the wireless tags more effectively by passing through a range within which it can receive the radio waves that transmit temperature data and identification information.

[0101] (Box and tag reader device inside the box) As described with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16, the tag reader device may be transported housed in a box. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of how the tag reader device is housed in a box. FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing the tag reader device in the box. As shown in FIG. 17, the tag reader device 20 is housed in a box B1. The box B1 includes a bottom plate b11, a top plate b12, and side plates b13, b14, b15, and b16. The bottom plate b11 contacts the conveyor belt CB when the box B1 is placed on the conveyor belt CB. The top plate b12 is located opposite the bottom plate b11. The top plate b12 is located farthest from the conveyor belt CB when the box B1 is placed on the conveyor belt CB. The side plate b13 connects the bottom plate b11 and the top plate b12. The side plate b13 is located at the front when the box body B1 is transported in the direction of arrow Y1. The side plate b14 connects the bottom plate b11 and the top plate b12. The side plate b14 is located at the rear when the box body B1 is transported in the direction of arrow Y1. The side plate b15 connects the bottom plate b11 and the top plate b12, and also connects the side plate b13 and the side plate b14. The side plate b16 connects the bottom plate b11 and the top plate b12, and also connects the side plate b13 and the side plate b14. Cushioning materials C1, C2, C3, and C4 are provided between the inner surfaces of each component constituting the box body B1, i.e., the bottom plate b11, the top plate b12, and the side plates b13, b14, b15, and b16, and the tag reader device 20 inside the box body B1. Cushioning materials C1, C2, C3, and C4 are preferably provided without gaps within the box B1. That is, cushioning materials are preferably provided between the tag reader device 20 and the bottom plate b11, between the tag reader device 20 and the top plate b12, and between the tag reader device 20 and each of the side plates b13, b14, b15, and b16. By providing these cushioning materials without gaps, the tag reader device 20 within the box B1 does not come into contact with the inner surfaces of the components that make up the box B1. Furthermore, because the cushioning materials are provided within the box B1, damage to the tag reader device 20 can be prevented even if the box B1 is subjected to an impact. By using cushioning materials and the box B1 that do not contain conductive materials such as moisture or metal, there is no impact on the radio wave environment, and the tag reader device 20 within the box B1 can acquire data satisfactorily.Box B1 is a box made of, for example, resin and does not contain any conductive material. For example, a box made of polypropylene resin can be used. The relative dielectric constant of polypropylene resin is approximately 2.0 to 2.2, which is sufficiently low. Since it does not contain any conductive material, there is no effect on the radio wave environment, and the tag reader device 20 inside box B1 can obtain data well through the components and cushioning material that make up box B1.

[0102] As already explained, box B1 containing tag reader device 20 is transported by conveyor belt CB (see FIG. 3), and tag reader device 20 acquires temperature data and identification information from the wireless tag while being transported. This makes it possible to monitor the idler rollers to be monitored based on the temperature data and identification information.

[0103] Tag reader device 20 is housed in box body B1 so that antenna 21 is located on the lower side (-Y axis direction side). That is, tag reader device 20 is housed in box body B1 so that antenna 21 faces the wireless tags below the conveyor belt. Note that, to improve the effectiveness of preventing damage to tag reader device 20, the size and number of cushioning materials inside box body B1 may be increased as needed.

[0104] (Example of transport using a belt conveyor) 18 and 19 are diagrams showing an example of conveyance by a belt conveyor device, and schematically show conveyance states by the belt conveyor device.

[0105] FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating a state during conveyance by the conveyor belt CB. As shown in FIG. 18, the conveyor belt CB conveys multiple objects M1, M2, and M3. A box B1 is placed between the objects M1 and M2 on the conveyor belt CB. Therefore, the conveyor belt CB conveys the box B1 placed between the objects. In FIG. 18, there is no space between the second object M2 and the third object M3 to place the box B1. In contrast, there is sufficient space between the first object M1 and the second object M2 to place the box B1. Therefore, the conveyor belt CB conveys the box B1 between the objects. By transporting the tag reader device 20 housed in the box body B1 in the direction of arrow Y1, not overlapping the object to be transported, and not in the vicinity of the object to be transported, but between the objects to be transported, there is no effect on the radio wave environment, and the tag reader device 20 in the box body B1 can acquire data from each wireless tag 10 while being transported.

[0106] FIG. 19 is a schematic diagram showing a state immediately before conveyance by conveyor belt CB is completed. As shown in FIG. 19, object M1, box B1, object M2, and object M3 are conveyed by belt conveyor device 200 in the direction of arrow Y1, and then fall from the end of belt conveyor device 200 in the direction of arrow Y2 (the negative direction of the Z axis). The fallen objects are deposited on ground GND, forming pile M. Even if box B1 falls in the direction of arrow Y2, tag reader device 20 is not damaged because it can withstand the impact of the fall due to the cushioning material inside box B1. Because tag reader device 20 is not damaged, tag reader device 20 can transmit data acquired from each wireless tag 10 to monitoring terminal device 30. Because tag reader device 20 is not damaged, it can be reused the next time data is acquired.

[0107] With respect to the claims, the present disclosure may take the following forms. (1) A monitoring system including a wireless tag provided on an idler roller that guides an endless belt for transporting an object to be transported, and a data acquisition device that acquires data from the wireless tag, the monitoring system monitoring the idler roller, The wireless tag is a storage unit that stores identification information; a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the idler roller and outputs temperature data corresponding to the temperature; a communication unit that transmits the temperature data output by the temperature sensor and the identification information; and the data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information; A monitoring system that monitors the monitoring target based on the temperature data and the identification information acquired by the data acquisition device. (2) The monitoring system according to (1), wherein the data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information while being transported by the endless belt. (3) the idler roller includes a fixed shaft, a roller portion that contacts the endless belt and rotates around the fixed shaft, and a bearing that supports the roller portion rotatably relative to the fixed shaft, The temperature sensor detects the temperature of the fixed shaft. A monitoring system according to (1) or (2). (4) the wireless tag is provided on the fixed shaft at a position facing the endless belt, the temperature sensor detects the temperature of the fixed shaft; The data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information from the wireless tag via the endless band. (3) A monitoring system according to the present invention. (5) the wireless tag includes a power supply unit that supplies power; The wireless tag operates using the power supplied by the power supply unit. A monitoring system according to any one of (1) to (4). (6) The wireless tag does not include a power supply unit that supplies power, The wireless tag operates using power supplied from the data acquisition device when the data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information. A monitoring system according to any one of (1) to (4). (7) the communication unit outputs a transmission radio wave for transmitting the temperature data output by the temperature sensor and the identification information; The data acquisition device carried by the endless band is The radio wave passes through a range of distances that can receive the transmitted radio wave via the endless band, The monitoring system according to (1) monitors the monitoring target based on the temperature data and the identification information acquired by the data acquisition device. (8) The transport speed of the data acquisition device by the endless belt is The data acquisition device is set to a speed at which the temperature data and the identification information can be acquired. A monitoring system according to (1) or (7). (9) a plurality of said idler rollers; the wireless tag is provided on each of the plurality of idler rollers, The transport speed of the data acquisition device via the endless belt is set so that the data acquisition device can acquire the temperature data and the identification information from a predetermined threshold or more of the wireless tags provided on each of the plurality of idler rollers. A monitoring system according to (1), (7) or (8). (10) the wireless tag includes a power supply unit that supplies power; The wireless tag operates using the power supplied by the power supply unit. A monitoring system according to any one of (7) to (9). (11) The wireless tag does not include a power supply unit that supplies power, The wireless tag operates using power supplied from the data acquisition device when the data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information. A monitoring system according to any one of (7) to (9). (12) a wireless tag provided on an idler roller that guides an endless belt for transporting an object to be transported; and a data acquisition device that acquires data from the wireless tag, and the idler roller is a monitoring target; The wireless tag is a storage unit that stores identification information; a temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the idler roller and outputs temperature data corresponding to the temperature; a communication unit that transmits the temperature data output by the temperature sensor and the identification information; and A monitoring method using a monitoring system, wherein the data acquisition device is carried by the endless belt, comprising: a setting step of setting a transport speed of the data acquisition device by the endless belt; a counting step of counting the number of the wireless tags from which the temperature data and the identification information can be acquired by the data acquisition device transported at the transport speed set in the setting step; a changing step of changing the transport speed when the number of the wireless tags counted by the counting step exceeds a predetermined threshold; Including, If the number of the wireless tags counted in the counting step is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the current transport speed is set as a subsequent transport speed. Monitoring methods using a monitoring system. (13) The data acquisition device is housed in a box; a cushioning material is provided between an inner surface of a member constituting the box and the data acquisition device inside the box; The box containing the data acquisition device is transported by the endless belt, and the monitoring system monitors the object to be monitored based on the temperature data and the identification information acquired by the data acquisition device via the cushioning material. (14) the endless belt conveys a plurality of the objects to be conveyed, The box is placed between the plurality of objects to be conveyed on the endless belt. (13) A monitoring system according to (13). (15) the data acquisition device has an antenna for acquiring the temperature data and the identification information; The monitoring system according to (13) or (14), wherein the data acquisition device is housed in the box so that the antenna faces the wireless tag. (16) The box is made of resin. A monitoring system according to any one of (13) to (15). (17) the wireless tag includes a power supply unit that supplies power; The wireless tag operates using the power supplied by the power supply unit. A monitoring system according to any one of (13) to (16). (18) The wireless tag does not include a power supply unit that supplies power, The wireless tag operates using power supplied from the data acquisition device when the data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information. A monitoring system according to any one of (13) to (16). [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 1-1, 1-2, 1-3, 1-4, 2-1, 2-2, 3-1, 3-2, 3-3, 3-4 axes 10, 10a, 10L, 10R wireless tags 11, 21, 21a, 21b antennas 12 Temperature Sensor 13, 22, 33 Control section 14, 23, 34 Power supply section 20, 20a, 20b, 20c, 20L, 20R Tag reader device 30 Monitoring terminal device 31, 131, 221 Communications Department 32, 132, 222 storage section 41, 41C, 41L, 41R fixed shaft 42 Bearings 50 Roller part 60, 60C, 60L, 60R idler rollers 100, 100a Monitoring System 120 data reception range 140 Main body 141, 142 through holes 143, 144 recess 143a, 143b, 144a, 144b Convex parts 200 Belt conveyor equipment 210 Radio Waves 223 Reading Unit 224 Writing section 1320 Identification Information B1, B2, B3 box body b11 Bottom plate b12 Top plate b13, b14, b15, b16 side plate C1, C2, C3, C4 cushioning material M deposit M1, M2, M3 Conveyed objects

Claims

1. A monitoring system comprising a wireless tag provided on an idler roller that guides an endless belt for transporting an object, and a data acquisition device that acquires data from the wireless tag, wherein the idler roller is the object to be monitored, The aforementioned wireless tag is A memory unit that stores identification information, A temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the idler roller and outputs temperature data corresponding to the temperature, A communication unit that transmits temperature data output by the temperature sensor and the identification information, It has, The data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information while being transported by the endless belt. A monitoring system that monitors the target being monitored based on the temperature data and identification information acquired by the data acquisition device.

2. The idler roller includes a fixed shaft, a roller portion that contacts the endless band and rotates about the fixed shaft, and a bearing that supports the roller portion so as to be rotatable with respect to the fixed shaft, The temperature sensor detects the temperature of the fixed shaft. The monitoring system according to claim 1.

3. The wireless tag is provided on the fixed shaft at a position opposite to the endless band, The temperature sensor detects the temperature of the fixed shaft, The data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information from the wireless tag via the endless band. The monitoring system according to claim 2.

4. The wireless tag includes a power supply unit that supplies power, The wireless tag operates using power supplied by the power supply unit. The monitoring system according to claim 1.

5. The wireless tag does not include a power supply unit that supplies power, The wireless tag operates using power supplied from the data acquisition device when the data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information. The monitoring system according to claim 1.

6. The communication unit outputs a transmission radio wave to transmit the temperature data output by the temperature sensor and the identification information, The data acquisition device, which is transported by the endless belt, The transmission radio waves pass through the endless band within a range where they can be received. The monitoring system according to claim 1, which monitors the object to be monitored based on the temperature data and identification information acquired by the data acquisition device.

7. The transport speed of the data acquisition device using the endless band is: The data acquisition device is set to a speed that allows it to acquire the temperature data and the identification information. The monitoring system according to claim 1 or 6.

8. comprising a plurality of idler rollers, The wireless tag is provided on each of the multiple idler rollers, The transport speed of the data acquisition device using the endless band is set so that the data acquisition device can acquire temperature data and identification information from a number of wireless tags, each of which is provided on a plurality of idler rollers, that is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. The monitoring system according to claim 7.

9. The wireless tag includes a power supply unit that supplies power, The wireless tag operates using power supplied by the power supply unit. The monitoring system according to claim 6.

10. The wireless tag does not include a power supply unit that supplies power, The wireless tag operates using power supplied from the data acquisition device when the data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information. The monitoring system according to claim 6.

11. The data acquisition device is housed in a box, A cushioning material is provided between the inner surface of the components constituting the box and the data acquisition device inside the box. The monitoring system according to claim 1, wherein the box housing the data acquisition device is transported by the endless belt, and the system monitors the object to be monitored based on the temperature data and identification information acquired by the data acquisition device via the cushioning material.

12. The endless belt conveys a plurality of the objects to be conveyed, In the endless belt, the boxes are transported by being placed between multiple objects to be transported. The monitoring system according to claim 11.

13. The data acquisition device has an antenna for acquiring the temperature data and the identification information, The monitoring system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the data acquisition device is housed in the box such that the antenna is oriented toward the wireless tag.

14. The box is a box made of resin. The monitoring system according to claim 11 or 12.

15. The wireless tag includes a power supply unit that supplies power, The wireless tag operates using power supplied by the power supply unit. The monitoring system according to claim 11.

16. The wireless tag does not include a power supply unit that supplies power, The wireless tag operates using power supplied from the data acquisition device when the data acquisition device acquires the temperature data and the identification information. The monitoring system according to claim 11.

17. A wireless tag provided on an idler roller that guides an endless belt for transporting an object to be transported, and a data acquisition device that acquires data from the wireless tag, wherein the idler roller is the object to be monitored, The aforementioned wireless tag is A memory unit that stores identification information, A temperature sensor that detects the temperature of the idler roller and outputs temperature data corresponding to the temperature, A communication unit that transmits temperature data output by the temperature sensor and the identification information, It has, The data acquisition device is transported by the endless belt, and the monitoring method is provided by the monitoring system. A setting step of setting the transport speed of the data acquisition device using the endless band, A counting step in which the number of wireless tags can be counted, and the data acquisition device, which is transported at the transport speed set in the setting step, can acquire the temperature data and the identification information. If the number of wireless tags counted in the count step exceeds a predetermined threshold, a change step is made to change the transport speed. Includes, If the number of wireless tags counted in the counting step is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the current transport speed is set as the subsequent transport speed. Monitoring methods using monitoring systems.

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