JP5272298B2 - Gas shut-off device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a battery storage form capable of informing of the effect that a battery capacity is required to be changed corresponding to the number of times of switching a measuring mode, and changing easily the battery capacity. <P>SOLUTION: This device is equipped with a flow rate detection part 17 for outputting a flow rate signal at a prescribed measuring period; a flow rate calculation part 19 for calculating the flow rate; a pulsation determination part 25 for comparing a measured flow rate value with a pulsation determination value, and outputting a pulsation signal when determined to be abnormal; a flow rate measurement instruction part 10a for instructing a change of a measuring period of the flow rate detection part; a pulsation signal storage part 30 for counting and storing a pulsation signal during a prescribed period; a battery capacity change instruction part 31 for outputting a battery capacity change instruction signal when a pulsation signal storage value exceeds a comparison value; a control circuit 10a; and a driving battery 2f. The device has a constitution wherein the driving battery 2f has a storage form capable of changing the battery capacity, and an informing means 11b is provided, for informing of the effect that the battery capacity is required to be changed, when the battery capacity change instruction signal is outputted from the battery capacity change instruction part 31. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gas shut-off device, and more particularly to a battery storage configuration for ensuring battery capacity associated with a change in measurement mode for correcting flow rate fluctuations caused by pulsation.

  Conventionally, in this type of gas shut-off device, a physical quantity that changes according to the flow velocity of the fluid in the flow path is measured intermittently, and the measured physical quantity is multiplied by the cross-sectional area of the flow rate and the intermittent time. In the flow rate measurement method for measuring the flow rate of the fluid that has passed through the passage, when the pulsating flow of the fluid in the flow path is monitored and a pulsating flow with a change greater than a predetermined determination value is detected, the intermittent amount There is a method in which the measurement interval is shortened, and the measurement is performed at random time intervals within a predetermined range so that the average value becomes a predetermined value (for example, see Patent Document 1).

  In addition, a measurement unit that measures the flow velocity or flow rate of the fluid to be measured at a predetermined interval and a plurality of variation values that are measured more frequently than the normal measurement mode, and output fluctuations of the measurement unit are predetermined. A mode change means for changing the measurement mode of the measurement means to a measurement mode with a higher measurement frequency when the value is equal to or greater than a value, and the number of measurements or the measurement ratio in the variation value measurement mode at a predetermined time becomes a predetermined abnormal condition. An abnormality determining means for determining whether or not an abnormality has occurred, and a notifying means for receiving and notifying the output of the abnormality determining means, and when the output fluctuation of the measuring means exceeds a predetermined value, that is, when the measured value becomes unstable due to pulsation In addition, there is one in which the variation of the measurement value is always set to a predetermined value or less by measuring in the variation value measurement mode (see, for example, Patent Document 2).

In addition, as a battery mounting configuration in the gas meter, a configuration in which a metal conductor integrally formed by welding or the like is soldered to a battery electrode and mounted on a printed board, or a lead wire with insulation coating is welded to each battery electrode, Is generally covered with an insulation coating to ensure electrical insulation, and one side of the lead wire is connected to the printed board with a connector, etc., and the battery is generally fixed on the printed board or near the printed board with a dedicated device. Since the battery is fixed to a printed board or the like, it is necessary to secure a battery capacity that can satisfy the warranty period according to the load to be used in advance (see, for example, Patent Document 3).
JP-A-11-258018 JP 2006-105890 A JP 2003-130710 A

  However, some of the appliances that are supplied through the gas shut-off device include an appliance that changes the supply gas pressure during use. For example, when a GHP (gas heat pump) is installed in a neighboring house, the gas pipe flows through the operation. Gas flow fluctuates and pulsation occurs. Although this pulsation depends on the piping environment, it affects the surroundings widely. Usually, when under pulsation, the variation in the flow rate detected by the flow rate measurement unit becomes large, and the tendency becomes prominent when pulsation occurs in a pulsation cycle shorter than the measurement cycle. Therefore, in order to reduce the flow rate variation, processing for suppressing variation due to pulsation is performed by measuring with high accuracy by shortening the measurement cycle. As a specific means, a method as disclosed in Patent Document 1 or Patent Document 2 is adopted.

However, in addition to the continuous occurrence of pulsation due to GHP or the like, there may be a case where the pulsation pattern coincides even with temporary fluctuations in the supply gas pressure or the use of equipment at home. In such a case, it is often transient and does not cause continuous pulsation, so there is no need to continue high-accuracy measurement, and normal-accuracy measurement is sufficient. In the method, once the high-accuracy measurement mode is entered, the flow rate stability for a predetermined period must be confirmed before returning to the normal-accuracy measurement mode. There was a problem that a certain battery was exhausted and consumed before the battery warranty period.

  In addition, as disclosed in Patent Document 3, as a battery mounting configuration to be mounted on a gas meter, a general idea is that a battery module that satisfies a capacity required for a load used in the gas meter is fixedly stored in a printed board. For example, when considering a measurement mode that covers flow fluctuations caused by pulsation, the idea is to install a battery module that satisfies the required battery capacity in that measurement mode, so change the battery capacity depending on the presence or absence of pulsation However, the idea of freely changing the storage form was not possible.

  The present invention solves the above-mentioned problem, when it is determined from the occurrence state of pulsation whether the pulsation phenomenon currently occurring is transient or continuous, and it is determined that the pulsation is continuous. By changing the battery capacity, a stable operation within the warranty period is ensured, and a battery storage form that can easily change the battery capacity is provided.

In order to solve the above-described conventional problems, a gas shutoff device according to the present invention includes a flow rate detection unit that outputs a flow rate signal at a predetermined measurement period corresponding to a gas flow rate passing through a gas passage, and a flow rate of the flow rate detection unit. A flow rate calculation unit that calculates a flow rate based on the signal, a pulsation determination unit that compares a flow rate value of the flow rate calculation unit with a predetermined pulsation determination value and outputs a first pulsation signal, and determination of the pulsation determination unit A flow rate measurement instruction unit that instructs to change the measurement cycle of the flow rate detection unit according to a result, a pulsation signal storage unit that counts and stores the number of occurrences of the first pulsation signal within a predetermined period, and the pulsation signal storage unit A battery capacity change instruction unit that outputs a battery capacity change instruction signal when the stored value exceeds a predetermined comparison value, a wireless module that can communicate with an adjacent gas meter, and a driving battery, the battery capacity change Battery capacity from the indicator When a change instruction signal is output to inform the user need to change the battery capacity, the pulsation detecting Once the second of said second pulse signal from the adjacent gas meter pulsation signals configured to be transmitted wirelessly Is received by the wireless module, the pulsation determining unit outputs a first pulsation signal according to the comparison result, and if the second pulsation signal is not received from the adjacent gas meter, the pulsation determination is performed. The unit is configured not to output the first pulsation signal regardless of the comparison result.

  According to the above invention, since it is determined whether it is a continuous pulsation phenomenon or a transient pulsation phenomenon according to the generation state of the pulsation signal, it is accurately determined whether or not the battery capacity needs to be changed. By notifying the necessity of changing the battery capacity when it is determined that there is continuous pulsation, it is possible to ensure stable operation within the warranty period and easily change the battery capacity A battery storage form is provided.

  The gas shutoff device of the present invention determines whether the current pulsation phenomenon is transient or continuous based on the occurrence of pulsation, and determines the battery capacity when it is determined as continuous pulsation. By changing the battery capacity, it is possible to ensure a stable operation within the warranty period and to provide a battery storage configuration in which the battery capacity can be easily changed.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a flow rate detection unit that outputs a flow rate signal at a predetermined measurement period corresponding to a gas flow rate passing through the gas passage, and a flow rate calculation unit that calculates a flow rate based on the flow rate signal of the flow rate detection unit. A pulsation determination unit that compares the flow rate value of the flow rate calculation unit with a predetermined pulsation determination value and outputs a first pulsation signal, and a measurement cycle of the flow rate detection unit according to a determination result of the pulsation determination unit The flow rate measurement instructing unit for instructing to change, the pulsation signal storage unit for counting and storing the number of occurrences of the first pulsation signal within a predetermined period, and the storage value of the pulsation signal storage unit exceeding a predetermined comparison value A battery capacity change instruction unit that outputs a battery capacity change instruction signal, a wireless module that can communicate with an adjacent gas meter, and a driving battery, and the battery capacity change instruction signal is output from the battery capacity change instruction part. Battery capacity And notifying change is required, if the second pulse signal and the second pulse signal when detecting the pulsating from adjacent gas meter configured to be transmitted wirelessly received by the wireless module, wherein the pulsation determination The unit outputs a first pulsation signal according to the comparison result, and when the second pulsation signal is not received from the adjacent gas meter, the pulsation determination unit performs the first pulsation regardless of the comparison result. It is characterized in that no signal is output.

  Since it is determined whether it is a continuous pulsation phenomenon or a transient pulsation phenomenon according to the generation state of the pulsation signal, it is possible to accurately determine whether or not it is necessary to change the battery capacity. Battery storage configuration that can ensure stable operation within the warranty period and can easily change the battery capacity by notifying the necessity of changing the battery capacity when it is determined as continuous pulsation Is to provide.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the flow rate measurement instructing unit is set to a high-accuracy flow rate measurement mode in which the measurement cycle of the flow rate detecting unit is shortened when the first pulsation signal is output from the pulsation determining unit, and the flow rate value of the flow rate calculating unit is predetermined. When the stable state is continued, the flow rate is returned to the normal flow rate measurement mode with a longer measurement cycle.

  The flow rate fluctuation caused by pulsation can be accurately measured by shortening the measurement cycle, and the battery consumption can be suppressed by returning to the normal flow rate measurement mode when the flow rate fluctuation is eliminated.

  The third invention sets a plurality of pulsation determination values in the pulsation determination unit, and sets a measurement cycle other than the high accuracy flow measurement mode and the normal flow measurement mode as the measurement mode. A medium-precision flow rate measurement mode that is substantially in the middle is provided, and the measurement mode is selected according to the comparison result with the pulsation determination values of the plurality of stages.

  Then, the degree of influence of pulsation is determined by a plurality of stages of pulsation determination values, and the measurement cycle is changed according to the degree of influence, thereby ensuring a good balance between the flow rate accuracy and the battery consumption.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the battery capacity change instruction unit changes a condition for outputting a battery capacity change instruction signal in the high accuracy flow rate measurement mode and the medium accuracy flow rate measurement mode.

  The battery capacity change instruction signal is output by changing the number of transitions between the transition to the high-accuracy flow measurement mode and the transition to the medium-accuracy flow measurement mode. Therefore, the battery capacity suitable for the actual use situation can be ensured.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is a need for a first storage unit that stores a battery module for securing a battery capacity that satisfies a predetermined guarantee period in a normal flow rate measurement mode as a driving battery, and that the battery capacity needs to be changed. And a second storage portion for storing a battery module to be added in order to increase the battery capacity when the notification is made, and the second storage portion is configured to be detachable. is there.

  Then, when it is determined that the flow rate fluctuation due to pulsation is continued and it is notified that the battery capacity needs to be changed, it is only necessary to additionally store a predetermined battery module in the second storage unit. The capacity can be increased, there is no need to redo additional settings and the like, and the influence on the battery capacity due to changes in environmental conditions can be easily avoided.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of a communication mode between a gas shut-off device and a base station and a customer's house in Embodiment 1 of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a communication mode with an adjacent gas meter in the gas shut-off device, and FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the appearance and components of the gas shut-off device, FIG. 4 is an internal configuration diagram of the gas shut-off device, FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the control circuit board of the gas shut-off device, and FIG. It is a figure which shows the communication form of a display terminal device.

  A gas meter 2 is installed at the inlet portion of the gas supply pipe 1 of each household 13, and is branched from the gas pipe 3 after passing through the gas meter 2 to the place where various gas appliances used at home are installed. Is supplied. For example, a gas water heater 4 is installed outdoors, and hot water generated by the gas water heater 4 is installed in a kitchen hot water tap 5, a bath 6 in which a bathtub and a shower device are installed, a living room and the like through a water pipe. The floor heating 7 is supplied to form various usage forms.

  In addition, when indoors, gas is supplied to a gas table 8 installed in a kitchen, a gas fan heater 9 installed in a living room, a bedroom, or the like, and is used as needed.

  When the installed gas appliance is used and gas consumption occurs, the amount of use is measured by the gas meter 2, and the data is accumulated and stored every predetermined period. The data stored in the gas meter 2 is subjected to predetermined information processing based on a periodic data request command from the gas company 15, and then the gas fee, gas usage, discount service provided by the gas company 15, etc. Is transmitted to the consumer 13 and the gas business operator 15 as the information.

  As this transmission means, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, the wireless module 11 integrated with the control circuit board 10 constituting the flow rate measurement means built in the gas meter 2 is used.

  As shown in FIGS. 2, 5, and 6, the wireless module 11 is different from the telephone line for communicating with the base station 14, for example, a wide area communication wireless module 11 a having a communication frequency band of 200 MHz, a customer's house 13 for communicating with the display terminal device 12 such as a television 12a, a personal computer or a mobile phone 12b in order to transmit information to the inside, or for directly communicating with the adjacent gas meters 2A to 2D to exchange various information. For example, from the control circuit 10a configured by the area communication wireless module 11b having a specific low-power wireless communication frequency band of 429 MHz, for calculating an amount of gas used or detecting an abnormality such as an earthquake or a gas leak based on a flow rate signal or a sensor signal. When data is received, depending on the data, for example, gas charges, gas usage or earthquakes, gas leaks, etc. In the case of contents to be notified to the consumer, such as the operation of a gas shut-off valve due to the occurrence of an abnormality, display data is displayed on the display terminal device 12 such as the television 12a or the mobile phone 12b in the consumer's house 13 using the area communication wireless module 11b. And transmits earthquake information and gas leak information to the adjacent gas meters 2A to 2D as necessary.

  Further, a notification means for notifying that the gas capacity of the gas company 15 or the customer 13 of the present invention needs to be changed is configured by a communication function using the wide area communication wireless module 11a and the area communication wireless module 11b. Can do.

Then, as shown in FIG. 6, the display terminal device 12 also has a wireless module 11 c having the same communication frequency band as the area communication wireless module 11 b built in the gas meter 2. The display data to be transmitted can be received, and the display data is displayed through the screen of the television 12a or the mobile phone 12b, so that the notification means for notifying that the battery capacity needs to be changed according to the present invention or the gas meter. Information can be communicated directly to consumers, and data sent from the gas meter 2 to the gas company 15 and processed by the gas company 15 as in the past, for example postcards such as charge notices Since it is no longer necessary to adopt an information transmission method that sends mail to customers by mail, etc., man-hours required for notification work can be reduced. And it eliminates the generation of mailing costs notification postcards, etc., thereby contributing to the reduction of the gas charge to realize the rationalization of notification operations.

  When various information is transmitted from the gas meter 2 to the display terminal device 12, a notification completion signal is sent from the area communication wireless module 11b to the wide area communication wireless module 11a, and the wide area communication wireless module 11a sends the notification completion signal to the base station 14 To notify the gas company 15 that the information transmission to the consumer has been completed. In this case, it is preferable to receive a response signal from the display terminal device 12 and transmit a notification completion signal, so that information can be more reliably transmitted to consumers.

  Here, an example of information transmission will be described. First, when a meter reading instruction from the gas operator 15 is transmitted in the wide communication frequency band (200 MHz) via the base station 14, the wide area communication wireless built in the gas meter 2 is used. The module 11a receives the meter reading instruction information and sends it to the control circuit 10a mounted on the same substrate. In the control circuit 10a, the flow rate data measured by the flow rate measuring means is accumulated every predetermined period, and the accumulated data or information converted into charge data is stored in the information storage means 10b. When the meter reading instruction information is input, the control circuit 10a sends the flow rate accumulated data in the information storage means 10b or the information converted into the charge data to the area communication wireless module 11b and the wide area communication wireless module 11a via the communication switching means 10c. The wide-area communication wireless module 11a transmits to the base station 14 in the wide-area communication frequency band (200 MHz), and meter reading information is transmitted from the base station 14 to the gas company 15 using a dedicated line. Further, the area communication wireless module 11b transmits to the wireless module 11c integrally attached to the display terminal device 12 such as the television 12a in the specific low-power wireless communication frequency band (429 MHz), and displays, for example, FIG. Display charge information and usage as shown in. Then, when the transmission to the display terminal device 12 is completed, as described above, a notification completion signal is transmitted to the gas company 15 to notify the completion of information transmission to the consumer.

  Further, when the shut-off valve is operated due to an earthquake or an impact, the cause is investigated, and when a return instruction from the gas operator 15 is transmitted in the wide communication frequency band (200 MHz) via the base station 14, the gas meter 2 is The built-in wide area communication wireless module 11a receives the information and sends the return instruction information to the control circuit 10a mounted on the same board. When the return instruction information is input, the control circuit 10a sends information related to the return work stored in the information storage means 10b to the area communication wireless module 11b via the communication switching means 10c, and the area communication wireless module 11b In the power wireless communication frequency band (429 MHz), the data is transmitted to the wireless module 11c integrally attached to the display terminal device 12 such as the television 12a, and the procedure of the return operation as shown in FIG. To do. Then, when the transmission to the display terminal device 12 is completed, as described above, a notification completion signal is transmitted to the gas company 15 to notify the completion of information transmission to the consumer.

  Further, when the control circuit 10a constituting the flow rate measuring unit detects flow rate fluctuations caused by pulsation, the flow rate measurement is performed by switching from the normal flow rate measurement mode to the high-accuracy flow rate measurement mode in which the measurement cycle is shortened. When the number of transitions from the measurement mode to the high-accuracy flow measurement mode exceeds a predetermined comparison value within a specified period, it is necessary to change the battery capacity based on the judgment that the pulsation continuously occurs Is notified. As this notification means, the wide area communication wireless module 11a built in the gas meter is used to directly notify the gas company 15 via the base station 14, or the area communication wireless module 11b is used to display the display terminal device 12 such as the television 12a. For example, a message as shown in FIG. 11C may be displayed on the screen, and the customer may request the gas company to change the battery capacity.

As described above, the control circuit 10a has the communication switching means 10c to select the radio module having a different communication frequency band corresponding to the other party to communicate according to the information to be transmitted. In the case of the meter reading instruction from 15, it is necessary to transmit the storage information of the information storage means 10b to the gas company 15 and the display terminal device 12, and in this case, for example, the wide area communication wireless module 11a having a communication frequency band of 200 MHz. For example, the area communication wireless module 11b having a specific low-power wireless communication frequency band of 429 MHz is selected, and in the case of a return instruction from the gas company 15, the storage information of the information storage unit 10b is transmitted to the display terminal device 12. In this case, for example, the area communication wireless module 11b having a specific low power wireless communication frequency band of 429 MHz is used. It may be set-option. Furthermore, when notifying the change of the battery capacity, the wide area communication wireless module 11a or the area communication wireless module 11b is selected, and the display of the gas company 15 or the television 12a in the customer's house via the base station 14 is displayed. Information can be directly exchanged with the terminal device 12, and management of the gas meter reflecting changes in the surrounding environment can be performed.

  Note that the wide area communication radio module 11a and the area communication radio module 11b may be provided separately, or may be configured as a common radio module, and the communication frequency band may be switched between the wide area communication frequency band and the specific low power radio communication frequency band. However, in the former case, the communication switching means 10c needs to select the wide area communication wireless module 11a and the area communication wireless module 11b, and there is a merit that simultaneous communication is possible, but there are demerits such as a large installation space and high cost. doing. In the latter case, the communication switching means 10c needs to switch the communication frequency band according to the communication partner, and has the demerit that the simultaneous communication cannot be performed and the alternate communication is possible while having the advantages of small installation space and low cost. ing.

  Next, the flow rate measuring means for measuring the gas flow rate built in the control circuit 10a will be briefly described. The gas meter 2 has a gas inlet 2a and a gas outlet 2b as shown in FIGS. A gas shutoff valve 2c for shutting off gas in the event of an abnormality and a pair of ultrasonic sensors 17A and 17B for measuring the gas flow rate are provided in the gas flow path therebetween, and a pressure sensor 2d for detecting the gas pressure is disposed downstream thereof. Yes. Further, a control circuit board 10 equipped with a control circuit 10a for calculating a gas flow rate by signals from the ultrasonic sensors 17A and 17B is arranged so as to face the liquid crystal display 10e on the display unit 2e of the gas meter 2, and further control is performed. A battery 2f for driving the circuit 10a is accommodated. Further, a return button 2g is arranged as means for manually performing a return operation after the shutoff valve 2c is activated.

  Then, the flow rate measurement unit 17 and the control circuit 10a that measure the gas flow rate, for example, as shown in FIG. 12, arrange a pair of ultrasonic sensors in the gas flow path, and change the propagation time that changes according to the flow rate that flows through the flow path. Some measure the flow rate by measuring. Hereinafter, the configuration will be described. A measurement control unit having a switching means that constitutes a control circuit 10a, in which a first transmitter / receiver 17A for transmitting or receiving ultrasonic waves and a second transmitter / receiver 17B for receiving or transmitting ultrasonic waves are arranged in the flow direction. Switching between transmission and reception is possible by 18 and the flow state of fluid such as gas is detected. The flow rate is measured by processing the signals of the first transmitter / receiver 17A and the second transmitter / receiver 17B. Specifically, the first transmitter / receiver 17A is first driven by the measurement control unit 18 and the second transmitter / receiver 17B is then driven. The ultrasonic wave is transmitted toward the upstream, that is, from the upstream to the downstream. Then, the signal received by the second transmitter / receiver 17B is amplified by the amplifying means provided in the measurement control unit 18, the amplified signal is compared with the reference signal, and after the signal equal to or higher than the reference signal is detected, the measurement control unit The above-described transmission / reception is repeated a predetermined number of times by the repeating means provided at 18, and each time value is measured by a time measuring means such as a timer counter provided at the measurement control unit 18.

Next, transmission / reception of the first transmitter / receiver 17A and the second transmitter / receiver 17B is switched by the measurement control unit 18 having switching means, and the ultrasonic waves are transmitted from the second transmitter / receiver 17B to the first transmitter / receiver 17A, that is, from downstream to upstream. A signal is transmitted, this transmission is repeated as described above, and each time value is measured. Then, the flow rate value is obtained by the signal processing unit 19 in consideration of the size of the flow path 16 and the flow state of the fluid from the ultrasonic propagation time difference between the first transceiver 17A and the second transceiver 17B. The obtained flow rate data is accumulated in the information storage means 10b and stored as accumulated data for each predetermined period.

  Further, the flow path 16 in which the flow rate measuring unit 17 is disposed is provided with a shutoff valve 2c that shuts off the gas flow in the event of an abnormality or the like. When the flow rate value is detected beyond a certain usage time, it is determined that there is an abnormality, and the shutoff valve 2c is operated to shut off the gas flow path 16. Further, when an earthquake, impact, or abnormal gas pressure signal is input from the vibration sensor or pressure sensor 2d, the shutoff valve 2c is operated via the information storage means 10b to shut off the gas flow path 16.

  Next, flow rate fluctuations caused by a pulsation phenomenon that greatly affects battery consumption will be described.

  When a GHP (gas heat pump) or the like is installed in a consumer connected to the same gas pipe 1, when this GHP is used, a pressure fluctuation occurs in the supply gas pressure, and this pressure fluctuation is transmitted through the gas pipe 1. This also affects the gas pressure supplied to other customers, and the gas flow rate, that is, the gas flow rate fluctuates as a pulsation phenomenon. In this case, since the gas flow rate is measured at a predetermined measurement cycle, if pulsation occurs at a cycle shorter than the measurement cycle, the flow rate that fluctuates during the measurement cycle is not reflected in the measurement value, and the flow rate variation increases. . For this reason, in general, the measurement cycle is shortened to cope with this problem. However, if the measurement cycle is shortened, another problem arises that battery consumption becomes severe and the battery warranty period cannot be satisfied.

  Therefore, it is only necessary to switch the measurement cycle to be shortened only when pulsation occurs, but it is difficult to accurately detect the timing of pulsation occurrence and termination, so high accuracy that once caused pulsation and shortened the measurement cycle When the flow rate measurement mode is entered, the measurement mode is continued for a predetermined period of time, and it is not possible to return to the normal flow rate measurement mode until it is confirmed that the flow rate fluctuation has stabilized. Therefore, it was forced to measure the flow rate in an unnecessary high-precision measurement mode. In addition to the causes of fluctuations in the flow rate as described above, in addition to those caused by pulsation due to the use of GHP (gas heat pump) etc. In some cases, the pressure may be temporarily changed, and if all the flow fluctuations are dealt with in the high-accuracy flow measurement mode, the battery consumption is severe and the operation cannot be guaranteed within the guarantee period.

  Therefore, it is determined whether it is a continuous pulsation phenomenon or a transient pulsation phenomenon according to the occurrence state of the pulsation phenomenon, that is, the number of transitions from the normal flow measurement mode to the high accuracy flow measurement mode. Since it is instructed to change the battery capacity when it is determined that continuous pulsation has occurred without changing the battery capacity, it is necessary to accurately determine whether the battery capacity needs to be changed. When it is determined that the pulsation is continuous, it is possible to ensure the stable operation within the warranty period by notifying the necessity of changing the battery capacity, and to easily change the battery capacity. A possible battery storage configuration is provided.

As a means for detecting the pulsation phenomenon in the gas meter, the pulsation determination unit 25 compares the flow rate value measured by the above method with the pulsation determination value set in advance in the normal measurement mode in which the measurement cycle is set long, and the pulsation determination value is obtained. If there is a flow rate fluctuation that exceeds, it is determined that the flow rate is abnormal due to pulsation, and a pulsation signal is output. When a pulsation signal is output from the pulsation determination unit 25, a timer unit 29 that counts a predetermined time is activated, and the pulsation signal storage unit 30 counts and stores the number of occurrences of the pulsation signal that the timer unit 29 is operating. The battery capacity change instruction unit 31 compares the count value of the pulsation signal storage unit 30 with a predetermined comparison value when the timer unit 29 finishes timing, and frequently pulsates if the count number exceeds the comparison value. It is judged that the flow rate fluctuation caused by the battery has occurred, and the battery capacity change instruction signal is output based on the judgment that the pulsation phenomenon is continuously occurring. It is determined that there is a battery capacity change instruction signal is not output.

  Then, when a battery capacity change instruction signal is output from the battery capacity change instruction unit 31, a predetermined location is notified using the wireless module 11 built in the gas meter 2 as described above. When directly reporting to the gas company 15 as a notification route, the wide-area communication wireless module 11a transmits to the base station 14 using a wide-band communication frequency band (for example, 200 MHz), and the battery is sent to the gas company 15 via a dedicated line. A message indicating that the battery capacity needs to be increased by adding a module is transmitted. When notifying a consumer as a notification route, the area communication wireless module 11b uses a specific low-power wireless communication frequency band (for example, 429 MHz) to display a terminal 12 such as a television 12a or a mobile phone 12b in the consumer's house. For example, as shown in FIG. 11C, the fact that the battery capacity needs to be changed is displayed on the screen, and the consumer requests the gas company to add a battery module.

  Also, the pulsation judgment value set in the pulsation judgment unit 25 is set in a plurality of stages, the pulsation judgment value of the plurality of stages is compared with the count number of the pulsation signal storage unit 30, and the measurement mode is selected based on the comparison result for each stage number. In this case, in addition to the high-accuracy flow measurement mode and the normal flow measurement mode, the medium-precision flow measurement mode in which the measurement cycle is approximately the intermediate value between the high-accuracy flow measurement mode and the normal flow measurement mode. It is necessary to provide. If the flow fluctuation due to pulsation is relatively small, select the medium-precision flow measurement mode, and if the flow fluctuation is severe, select the high-precision flow measurement mode to take into account the balance between flow fluctuation and battery consumption. Flow rate measurement can be realized.

  Furthermore, in the high accuracy flow rate measurement mode and the medium accuracy flow rate measurement mode, the condition for outputting the battery capacity change instruction signal is changed. For example, in the case of the medium accuracy flow rate measurement mode, the number of pulsation signals generated within a predetermined time is increased. When the set first comparison value is exceeded, it is determined that the battery capacity needs to be changed, and a battery capacity change instruction signal is output. In the high-accuracy flow measurement mode, a pulsation signal generated within a predetermined time is When the second comparison value set for a small number of times is exceeded, it is determined that the battery capacity needs to be changed, and a battery capacity change instruction signal is output. By changing the timing of outputting the battery capacity change instruction signal according to this measurement mode, it is possible to instruct the battery capacity to be changed according to the degree of influence of pulsation, ensuring a battery capacity suitable for the actual usage situation can do. In other words, when the high-accuracy flow measurement mode is selected, the influence of pulsation is large. In this case, if the battery capacity change instruction signal is not output with a small number of times, the battery life is affected. Therefore, when the second comparison value in which a small number of times is set as the comparison value of the battery capacity change instruction unit 31 is set and the medium accuracy flow rate measurement mode is selected, the influence of the pulsation is relatively slight. Since the battery consumption is increased to some extent, a first comparison value in which a large number of times is set as the comparison value of the battery capacity change instruction unit 31 is set, and when the first comparison value is exceeded, the battery capacity change instruction signal Is output to prevent the battery capacity from being increased unnecessarily.

  Further, as another embodiment for specifying whether the pulsation phenomenon is continuous or transient, there is a method as shown in FIG.

  The timing of pulsation occurrence and termination is confirmed by checking the pulsation phenomenon occurring in a specific area by receiving the pulsation signal from the adjacent gas meter, and switching the measurement mode based on the confirmation result, Specifically, a gas meter having a battery capacity that can sufficiently satisfy the warranty period even if the high-precision measurement mode is frequently performed in a specific area is installed, and this gas meter pulsates the gas pipe 1 of the same system. Try to detect the phenomenon. When the pulsation phenomenon is detected, a pulsation signal is transmitted from the area communication wireless module 11b to the adjacent gas meter.

  As a means for detecting the pulsation phenomenon in the specific gas meter, the pulsation determination unit 25 compares the flow rate value measured by the above method with the pulsation determination value set in advance in the normal measurement mode in which the measurement cycle is set to be long. When there is a flow rate fluctuation that exceeds the judgment value one or more times, it is determined that the flow rate is abnormal due to pulsation, and a pulsation signal is output. When a pulsation signal is output from the pulsation determination unit 25, the pulsation signal is sent to the wireless module 11 and transmitted as an external pulsation determination signal to another adjacent gas meter using the area communication wireless module 11b. When the pulsation phenomenon is determined, the control circuit 10a sends an instruction signal to the measurement control unit 18 to switch the measurement cycle to the high-accuracy measurement mode that drives and measures the ultrasonic sensors 17A and 17B at a cycle shorter than the normal measurement mode. Output. Thereafter, the flow rate measurement is performed in the high-accuracy measurement mode in which the measurement cycle is shortened, and when the measured flow rate value is kept stable for a predetermined period, the normal measurement mode is restored.

  Next, a gas meter that receives a pulsation signal transmitted from the specific gas meter and determines a pulsation phenomenon will be described. When the pulsation signal is received by the area communication wireless module 11b, the information is sent to the control circuit 10a and registered as having an external pulsation determination signal by the external pulsation signal determination unit 10f. In this state, when the flow rate value measured in the normal measurement mode exceeds the pulsation determination value, the pulsation determination unit 25 outputs a pulsation signal to the control circuit 10a. In other words, the state in which the pulsation signal is transmitted from the adjacent gas meter is that an instrument that causes pulsation in the area, such as GHP, is used, and the pulsation may be specified as the cause when the flow rate fluctuation occurs. Therefore, the flow rate variation can be reduced by immediately switching to the high-accuracy measurement mode and accurately measuring the flow rate.

  Further, when the area communication wireless module 11b does not receive a pulsation signal, it is registered in the external pulsation signal determination unit 10f of the control circuit 10a as no external pulsation determination signal. In this state, regardless of the determination result of the pulsation determination unit 25, that is, even if a flow rate fluctuation exceeding the pulsation determination value occurs, the normal measurement mode is continued and the flow measurement is continued without switching to the high-accuracy measurement mode. Do. In other words, the state in which no pulsation signal is transmitted from the adjacent gas meter is that an instrument that causes pulsation in the area, such as GHP, is not used, and the cause when the flow rate fluctuation occurs is the use of the instrument in your home. Therefore, it is possible to suppress battery consumption by continuing the normal measurement mode.

  In addition, when no external pulsation determination signal is registered during the high-accuracy measurement mode, battery consumption can be suppressed by immediately returning to the normal measurement mode without lapse of a predetermined stable period. .

  In addition, when switching between the high-accuracy measurement mode and the normal measurement mode using the external pulsation determination signal, the switching timing between the high-accuracy measurement mode and the normal measurement mode may be changed according to the number of times the external pulsation determination signal is received. In this case, the degree of influence of pulsation in the gas supply system in the area is determined from the number of occurrences of pulsation of the adjacent gas meter via the area communication wireless module 11b, and the high-accuracy flow rate measurement mode and normal flow rate measurement are performed according to the degree of influence. Since it is possible to switch modes, it is possible to accurately identify the cause of flow fluctuations, select flow measurement conditions suitable for actual usage conditions, and reduce battery consumption while suppressing battery consumption. Variations can be reduced.

In addition, as a communication partner using the area communication wireless module 11b, a pulsation signal is transmitted to and received from a gas meter specified in advance among adjacent gas meters, and a pulsation determination signal from the specific gas meter and a determination result of the pulsation determination unit 25 The high-accuracy flow rate measurement mode and the normal flow rate measurement mode may be switched according to the condition, and in this case, the measurement mode is switched based on the pulsation information of the gas meter specified in advance based on the strength of the reception level and the condition of the instrument usage frequency. Therefore, the cause of the accurate flow rate fluctuation can be specified, and the flow rate variation can be reduced while suppressing battery consumption by selecting the measurement mode suitable for actual use.

  In addition, a pulsation signal is transmitted / received to / from a gas meter specified in advance among adjacent gas meters, and the flow rate measurement instruction unit is a highly accurate flow rate according to the number of pulsation determination signals from the specific gas meter and the determination result of the pulsation determination unit 25. The measurement mode and the normal flow rate measurement mode may be switched, and in this case, the measurement mode is switched according to the frequency of pulsation information from a specific gas meter. The flow rate variation can be reduced while suppressing battery consumption by selecting a measurement mode suitable for actual use.

  Next, a battery storage mode for changing the battery capacity when the notification means notifies that the battery capacity needs to be changed will be described.

  The storage form of the battery 2f is configured such that the battery can be stored so that the battery capacity varies depending on the presence or absence of the battery capacity change instruction signal. That is, there is a large difference in power consumption between when the battery capacity change instruction signal is output and when it is not output, and when the battery capacity change instruction signal is output with one battery power source and when it is not In order to satisfy both of these conditions, it is necessary to secure the necessary battery capacity assuming that the battery capacity change instruction signal is output, and the battery capacity change instruction signal is not output. A gas meter that does not receive and does not change the measurement mode has an extra battery capacity. Battery storage mode that can determine whether the flow rate fluctuation caused by pulsation is continuous or transient as in the present invention, and the battery capacity can be changed in an environment where pulsation occurs continuously Thus, a reasonable battery power source corresponding to the use environment can be configured.

  Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 7 to 10, a battery storage unit 26 is provided on the front side of the gas meter 2 and is usually covered with a battery storage lid 26a. When the battery capacity is changed, the lid 26a is opened. Thus, the addition of the second battery module 26b and the like can be easily performed. The battery storage unit 26 has a first storage space 26d for storing the first battery module 26c for supplying power to the control circuit 10a having a flow rate measurement function which is a basic function of the gas meter, and a flow rate due to the influence of the use environment. It is necessary to switch the measurement mode to the high-accuracy flow rate measurement mode with a short measurement cycle, and when it is determined that the situation frequently occurs, the second storage space 26e that stores the second battery module 26b as an additional power source is configured. Since the first battery module 26c stored in the first storage space 26d does not need to be replaced once the battery life is exhausted, the first battery module 26c is configured so that it cannot be easily detached by covering with a cover, etc. A second storage space 26e for additionally storing the second battery module 26c in order to change the battery capacity in accordance with the load fluctuation And removable freely composed sliding manner or the like, and configured to distinguish a first housing space 26d and the second storage space 26e.

  Further, as a specific embodiment of the battery storage space, as shown in FIG. 8, a battery storage box 27 is divided into upper and lower parts, and a first storage space 26d for storing the first battery module 26c is provided on the lower side. Forming and forming the second storage space 26e for storing the second battery module 26b on the upper stage side exposes the second storage space 26e formed on the upper stage side when the battery storage box 27 is pulled out. Therefore, when a battery module is added, there is no erroneous mounting and the mounting work can be easily performed.

As another embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 9 and 10, a battery storage box for storing the first battery module 26c and the second battery module 26b is separately provided, and the second battery module 26b is stored. The second battery storage box 28a is configured to be detachable and detachable by sliding, and the first storage box 28b for storing the first battery module 26c is configured to be fixed to the gas meter 2 with a screw or the like. Since only the second battery storage box 28a for storing the additional battery module is slidable, there is no erroneous mounting when the battery module is added, and the mounting work can be easily performed.

  The battery storage form is not limited to this embodiment, and any form may be used as long as the second battery module 26b can be detachably stored.

  In addition, when the second battery storage box 28a to which the second battery module 26b is mounted is securely stored in the battery storage unit 26, a connection means that is electrically connected to the first battery module 26c is added. Thus, the battery capacity can be changed, and the battery life when the load increases can be set appropriately.

  Further, by providing a confirmation window or the like in the battery storage unit 26 so that the storage state of the second battery storage box 26b can be confirmed from the outside of the gas meter main body, the additional state of the battery capacity can be easily confirmed. It is also possible.

  In recent years, gas meters using ultrasonic sensors can easily measure the instantaneous flow rate. Therefore, in addition to security functions such as gas leaks, the provision of various services using equipment discrimination functions has been studied, and circuit loads have been increased. There is a tendency for battery consumption to increase.

  An example of this would be to set a discount rate for gas charges according to the equipment used and the application, specify the gas appliance or application used by the instrument discrimination means using the instantaneous flow rate measurement function by the ultrasonic sensor, The amount of use is determined for each appliance or for each purpose, and a gas rate is calculated by applying a predetermined discount rate, thereby promoting gas use and providing services to consumers.

  As an example of the specific means, an appliance signal registration means 21 for setting and registering an appliance signal specifying the type of gas appliance to be used, an application-specific signal registration means 22 for specifying a usage form for each usage of the gas appliance to be used, and There is provided an appliance discriminating means 24 having appliance classification means 23 for classifying household gas appliances for each predetermined classification based on the registration information of the appliance signal registration means 21 and the application-specific signal registration means 22.

  Here, the appliance signal registration means 21 sets and registers a signal according to the type of appliance, for example, as shown in the following table (Table 1).

  Moreover, the signal registering means 22 classified by use sets and registers a signal for specifying a use form for each use of the appliance, for example, as shown in the following table (Table 2).

  Further, the appliance classification means 23 is the information obtained in the above (Table 1) and (Table 2), in which the gas business operator presets and classifies the discount target field of the gas fee based on the type and usage pattern of the gas appliance. For example, as shown in the following table (Table 3), if floor heating is performed using a water heater, discount A is used, and hot air is supplied by a gas fan heater or the like. When heating is performed, the discount is set to B, and the others are classified as standard, and the gas appliances used in the home are set and registered.

  Information storage for monitoring the amount of gas used according to the usage status of the gas appliance based on the registration signal from the appliance discriminating means 24 comprising the appliance signal registration means 21, the application-specific signal registration means 22, and the appliance classification means 23. Means 10b are provided. This information storage means 10b receives the gas flow rate value obtained by the signal processing means 19 of the flow rate measurement unit 17, is managed together with the registration information of the gas appliance corresponding to the field classified by the appliance classification means 23, and is supplied by the gas operator. When the wireless module 11 receives the meter reading instruction information periodically requested from 15, specifically, the wide area communication wireless module 11 a, the accumulated flow data for each predetermined period of the information storage means 10 b, the charge data reflecting the discount rate, etc. Information is taken out and transmitted to the base station 14 and the display terminal device 12 from the wireless module 11, more specifically, the wide area communication wireless module 11a and the area communication wireless module 11b, and notified to the gas company 15 from the base station 14 using a dedicated line. At the same time, the gas price information for a predetermined period is notified to the consumer using the screen of the display terminal device 12.

  The outline of the instrument discrimination performed by the information storage means 10b will be described below. As the registration data stored in the instrument discrimination means 24, for example, a flow rate pattern as shown in FIG. As actual registration data, for example, data of a flow rate value every 0.2 seconds from the start of the instrument is stored for a predetermined time. Note that the data time interval does not need to be limited to 0.2 seconds, and can be arbitrarily set depending on the required appliance discrimination capability.

  The flow rate measuring unit 17 measures the gas flow rate at regular intervals, and when the newly measured gas flow rate value increases by more than a predetermined value from the previous value, it is determined that a new instrument has been used, and the flow rate change and instrument discrimination The flow rate pattern corresponding to the instrument code registered in the means 24 is compared to determine the instrument being used.

In the present embodiment, the information storage means 10b manages the information on whether or not there is a gas appliance use registration for each classified item and the total gas use amount for each predetermined period, for example, During the heating period in winter, as shown in Table 3, the amount of gas used is managed with the equipment used for floor heating and hot air heating registered, and in summer the gas is used with no equipment registered for discounted fields. In addition to this, for example, by adding a function for obtaining the amount of gas used for each gas appliance classified by the appliance discriminating means 24 to the information storage means 10b, a finer classification It is possible to provide a variety of services and enhance security.

  Further, in the present embodiment, the discount item is targeted as a classification item of the appliance discriminating means 24. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is intended for a service that a gas company or the like considers necessary, such as a security service. A monitoring method for each device can be adopted.

  As described above, it is determined whether it is a continuous pulsation phenomenon or a transient pulsation phenomenon according to the generation state of the pulsation signal, so it is accurately determined whether or not the battery capacity needs to be changed. When it is determined that the pulsation is continuous, it is possible to ensure a stable operation within the warranty period and to easily change the battery capacity by notifying the necessity of changing the battery capacity. A battery storage form is provided.

    Furthermore, in addition to an increase in load due to a change in measurement mode due to pulsation, it is an effective means for extending the battery life even when the load increases due to addition of functions such as instrument discrimination.

  As described above, the gas cutoff device according to the present invention determines whether the battery capacity needs to be changed by determining whether the pulsation signal is a continuous pulsation phenomenon or a transient pulsation phenomenon according to the generation state of the pulsation signal. Because it is determined, when it is determined that the pulsation is continuous, it is possible to reliably notify the necessity of changing the battery capacity, ensure stable operation within the warranty period, and easily The present invention provides a battery storage form in which the battery capacity can be changed, and is effective for a meter in which various phenomena due to load fluctuations occur.

Whole block diagram which shows the communication form of the gas cutoff device in Embodiment 1 of this invention The figure which shows the communication form between the adjacent gas meters in the gas cutoff device The figure which shows the external appearance and component of the gas shut-off device Internal configuration diagram of the gas shutoff device Configuration block diagram of the control circuit board of the gas shutoff device The figure which shows the communication form of the gas cutoff device and the display terminal device The figure which shows the battery accommodating part of the gas cutoff device The figure which shows an example of the battery storage form of the gas cutoff device The figure which shows another example of the battery storage form of the gas cutoff device The figure which shows another example of the battery storage form of the gas cutoff device (A) The figure which shows the charge information display form in the display terminal device (b) The figure which shows the return information display form in the display terminal apparatus (c) The figure which shows the battery capacity change information display form in the display terminal apparatus Control block diagram of the gas shutoff device Control block diagram in another embodiment of the gas shutoff device The figure which shows an example of the flow rate pattern for the instrument discrimination | determination in the gas cutoff device

Explanation of symbols

2 Gas meter 2f Battery 10 Control circuit board 10a Control circuit (flow rate measurement instruction unit)
10b Information storage means 10c Communication switching means 11 Wireless module (notification means)
11b area communication wireless module (notification means)
17A, 17B Ultrasonic sensor (flow rate detector)
19 Signal processor (flow rate calculator)
25 pulsation determination unit 26 battery storage unit 27 battery storage box 28a first battery storage box 28b second battery storage box 29 timer unit 30 pulsation signal storage unit 31 battery capacity change instruction unit

Claims (5)

A flow rate detector that outputs a flow rate signal at a predetermined measurement period corresponding to the gas flow rate passing through the gas passage;
A flow rate calculation unit that calculates a flow rate based on a flow rate signal of the flow rate detection unit;
A pulsation determination unit that compares the flow rate value of the flow rate calculation unit with a predetermined pulsation determination value and outputs a first pulsation signal;
A flow rate measurement instruction unit that gives an instruction to change the measurement cycle of the flow rate detection unit according to the determination result of the pulsation determination unit;
A pulsation signal storage unit that counts and stores the number of occurrences of the first pulsation signal within a predetermined period;
A battery capacity change instruction unit that outputs a battery capacity change instruction signal when a stored value of the pulsation signal storage unit exceeds a predetermined comparison value;
A wireless module capable of communicating with an adjacent gas meter;
A battery for driving,
When a battery capacity change instruction signal is output from the battery capacity change instruction section, the battery capacity change instruction signal is notified, and when the pulsation is detected, the second pulsation signal is transmitted wirelessly. when receiving the second pulse signal in the radio module from the gas meter to the pulsation determination unit outputs a first pulse signal according to the comparison result,
The gas cutoff device in which, when the second pulsation signal is not received from the adjacent gas meter, the pulsation determination unit does not output the first pulsation signal regardless of the comparison result. The flow rate measurement instruction unit sets a high-accuracy flow rate measurement mode in which the measurement cycle of the flow rate detection unit is shortened when the first pulsation signal is output by the pulsation determination unit, and a flow rate value of the flow rate calculation unit is predetermined. The gas shut-off device according to claim 1, wherein when the period stable state is continued, the normal flow rate measurement mode in which the measurement cycle is extended is restored. In addition to setting the pulsation judgment value in multiple stages in the pulsation judgment unit, the measurement cycle is set to be approximately halfway between the high precision flow measurement mode and the normal flow measurement mode in addition to the high precision flow measurement mode and the normal flow measurement mode. The gas cutoff device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein an accurate flow rate measurement mode is provided, and the measurement mode is selected according to a comparison result with the pulsation determination values of the plurality of stages. The gas shut-off device according to claim 3, wherein the battery capacity change instruction unit changes a condition for outputting the battery capacity change instruction signal in the high-accuracy flow measurement mode and the medium-accuracy flow measurement mode. The driving battery is:
A first storage unit for storing a battery module for securing a battery capacity that satisfies a predetermined warranty period in the normal flow rate measurement mode;
A second storage unit that stores a battery module to be added in order to increase the battery capacity when notification that the battery capacity needs to be changed is provided,
The gas shutoff device according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the second storage portion is configured to be detachable.