Method for managing sensor network system, program for managing sensor network system, record medium with recorded program for managing sensor network system, apparatus for managing sensor network system, method for managing relay network, program for managing relay net

The present invention relates to a sensor network system in which a plurality of sensors and a server that controls and manages these sensors are connected by a communication network.

[0002] In recent years, a large number of various and diverse sensors have been installed in our living space and the like according to the purpose of vehicle theft monitoring, indoor intrusion monitoring, fire monitoring, and the like. These sensors usually constitute a sensor network for each purpose of installation. By configuring a sensor network system including a plurality of such sensor networks, it is possible to integrate and manage a wide variety of sensor information.

[0003] Each sensor network includes a sensor network controller, and each sensor and the sensor network controller are communicably connected by wire or wirelessly. That is, sensor information such as the detection result by each sensor is transmitted to the sensor network controller by communication.

[0004] Further, the sensor network system is provided with a server computer (hereinafter, abbreviated as a server) for centrally managing information from each sensor network. This server is communicably connected to the sensor network controllers in each sensor network, and it is possible to obtain sensor information of each sensor from these sensor network controllers. The server can also control the operation of each sensor.

[0005] Since each sensor network is often provided over a wide area, the server and each sensor network controller are connected by a communication infrastructure capable of long-distance communication. An example of this communication infrastructure is a relay network in which a plurality of repeaters are connected to each other.

[0006] [Problems to be Solved by the Invention] In the sensor network system as described above, since each sensor is installed in various places, it is necessary to install the sensor in a place where power cannot be supplied. In some cases. In this case, the sensor will be powered by the battery.

[0007] In the case of a system provided with a plurality of battery-powered sensors, when a sensor having a remaining battery capacity of 0 is generated, maintenance for charging the sensor is required. The capacity and power consumption of the battery in each sensor vary, and the timing at which the remaining capacity of the battery becomes 0 differs depending on each sensor. In this case, the frequency of charging processing increases, and the maintenance burden on the administrator of the sensor network system increases.

[0008] Further, the communication path in the relay network changes variously depending on the positional relationship between the server and the sensor network controller that transmits / receives data. Further, since each repeater can communicate with one or more other repeaters, there are a plurality of patterns in the communication path between the server and the specific sensor network controller.

[0009] In the case of such a system, the frequency with which a specific repeater is used may be significantly increased depending on the method of selecting a communication path. If this repeater is a battery-powered system, the remaining capacity of the battery will be reduced immediately, and it will be necessary to charge the battery frequently. Therefore, the frequency of maintenance for charging increases, and the burden on the administrator of the sensor network system increases. Further, if the frequency of use of a specific repeater becomes extremely high, there is also an adverse effect that the service life of the repeater itself and the battery is shortened.

[0010] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is a sensor network system in which a plurality of sensors and a server that controls them are connected by a communication network such as a relay network. In the present invention, it is an object of the present invention to provide a sensor network system management method capable of reducing the maintenance burden of the system administrator, particularly the burden of battery charging processing of a sensor or a repeater.

[Means for Solving the Problems] In order to solve the above problems, the sensor network system management method according to the present invention is capable of communicating with a plurality of sensors and receives sensor information from each sensor. At the same time, it is a sensor network system management method performed in the sensor network system management device that controls the operation of each sensor, and is a step of acquiring the remaining drive time of the battery in each sensor and a step of setting the target remaining drive time. It is characterized by having a step of controlling the operation of each sensor so that the remaining drive time of the battery in each of the sensors and the target remaining drive time of the target are substantially equal to each other.

[0012] In the above method, the operation of each sensor is controlled so that the remaining drive time of the battery in each sensor and the target remaining drive time are substantially equal to each other. According to such control, most of the battery-powered sensors included in the sensor network system can be set so that the remaining capacity of the battery runs out at about the same time. As a result, it is possible to charge the batteries of many sensors by one charge processing maintenance, and it is possible to significantly reduce the frequency of performing the charging processing. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the maintenance burden on the administrator who manages the sensor network system.

[0013] Further, in the sensor network system management method according to the present invention, in the above method, the target remaining drive time is set to the remaining drive time of the battery in the sensor having the longest remaining drive time of the battery at that time. It is characterized by that.

[0014] In the above method, the remaining drive time of the battery in the sensor having the longest remaining drive time of the battery is set to the target remaining drive time. Therefore, the other sensors are operated so as to increase the remaining drive time of the battery. Will be done. Therefore, since the period until charging is required can be lengthened, the frequency of charging processing can be reduced, and the burden of maintenance can be reduced.

[0015] Further, in the sensor network system management method according to the present invention, in the above method, the remaining capacity of the battery is detected, and the target average power consumption is calculated from the remaining capacity and the target remaining drive time. It is characterized in that the operation of the corresponding sensor is controlled so as to realize the target average power consumption.

[0016] In the above method, first, the remaining capacity of the battery of the sensor is detected. Then, the target average power consumption is calculated from the remaining capacity and the target remaining driving time. If the target average power consumption is set in this way, it becomes possible to grasp how to operate the corresponding sensor to achieve the target remaining drive time. Therefore, it is possible to accurately grasp how to control the operation of each sensor.

[0017] Further, in the sensor network system management method according to the present invention, in the above method, the operation control minimum value for realizing the minimum function is set for each sensor, and the operation control minimum value is set for each sensor. It is characterized in that the operation control does not fall below the above-mentioned minimum operation control value.

[0018] In the above method, first, the minimum operation control value for realizing the minimum function of each sensor is set. It should be noted that this operation control minimum value only indicates the minimum value of the operation amount in the sensor, and it is conceivable that the operation control minimum value becomes the maximum value in the actual operation parameters. For example, when the operation parameter is the interval for reporting the detection operation, the maximum value of the reporting interval is the minimum value for the operation control.

When the amount of motion control required to achieve the target remaining drive time is less than the motion control minimum value, the corresponding sensor is controlled by the motion control minimum value. There is. As a result, it is possible to prevent the required detection operation from becoming impossible by considering only the realization of the target remaining drive time. That is, it is possible to guarantee the minimum operation required for the sensor.

It should be noted that the fact that the operation control for each sensor does not fall below the minimum motion control value indicates that the motion control does not fall below the minimum motion control amount, and the actual motion parameters indicate the motion. It is also conceivable that the maximum value as the control minimum value is not exceeded.

[0021] Further, the sensor network system management program according to the present invention is characterized in that the sensor network system management method according to the present invention is realized in a computer.

By loading the program into the computer system, it is possible to provide the user with the sensor network system management method.

[0023] Further, the recording medium on which the sensor network system management program according to the present invention is recorded is characterized in that the sensor network system management program for realizing the sensor network system management method according to the present invention on a computer is recorded. There is.

[0024] By loading the program recorded on the recording medium into the computer system, it is possible to provide the user with the sensor network system management method.

[0025] Further, the sensor network system management device according to the present invention can communicate with a plurality of sensors, receives sensor information from each sensor, and controls the operation of each sensor. A drive time control unit that calculates an operation control amount for the corresponding sensor based on information about a battery sent from each sensor is provided, and the drive time control unit manages the sensor network system according to the present invention. It is characterized by realizing the method.

[0026] According to the above configuration, since the drive time control unit that realizes the above-mentioned sensor network system management method is provided, as described above, the batteries of many sensors are charged by one charge processing maintenance. This makes it possible to significantly reduce the frequency of charging processing. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the maintenance burden on the administrator who manages the sensor network system.

[0027] Further, the relay network management method according to the present invention is a relay network management method in which a plurality of communication terminals are communicated and connected by relaying a plurality of repeaters connected so as to be able to communicate with each other. , A step of acquiring a selectable relay route when communication is performed between two specific communication terminals, and a step of acquiring information on the remaining battery capacity of the repeater included in each of the selectable relay routes. Including the step of identifying the repeater having the smallest remaining battery capacity in each of the above relay paths, and the repeater having the largest remaining battery capacity among the repeaters having the smallest remaining battery capacity in each of the above relay paths. It has a step of selecting an existing relay path and setting it as a relay path for transmitting and receiving signals between the two specific communication terminals, and the plurality of communication terminals can communicate with a plurality of sensors. It receives sensor information from each sensor and controls the operation of each sensor.<u style="single">It may be a method.</u>[0028] In the above method, first, when communication is started between two specific communication terminals, a selectable relay route is selected. Here, one or more candidates are listed as relay routes. After that, in each of the selected relay routes, the repeater having the smallest remaining battery capacity is specified, and the relay route including the repeater having the largest remaining battery capacity among them is set as the relay route used for communication. To. That is, since the relay path is selected from those including the repeater having a large remaining capacity of the battery, it is possible to equalize the decrease in the remaining capacity of the battery in each repeater. Therefore, as the frequency of use of a specific repeater increases, it is possible to prevent adverse effects such as the battery of the repeater running out immediately and the frequency of charging maintenance increasing, which is a burden on the system administrator. Can be reduced. Further, if the frequency of use of a specific repeater becomes extremely high, there is an adverse effect that the service life of the repeater itself and the battery becomes short, but this problem can be solved by the above method.

[0029] The plurality of communication terminals may be a sensor network system management device that receives a plurality of sensors and sensor information from each sensor and controls the operation of each sensor.

[0030] The above method is applied to a sensor network system including a plurality of sensors and a sensor network system management device that manages these sensors. In such a sensor network system, each sensor is installed in a wide variety of places, and the distance between each sensor and the sensor network system management device is often relatively long. In such a case, the above-mentioned relay network is required in order to enable communication between each sensor and the sensor network system management device. In such a relay network, the repeaters are often far apart from each other, and maintenance of the charging process for the battery of the repeater is relatively laborious. Here, reducing the frequency of charge maintenance as in the above method can greatly reduce the burden on the system administrator.

Further, the relay network management program according to the present invention enables a computer to realize the above-mentioned relay network management method according to the present invention.<u style="single">You may do so.</u>By loading the program into the computer system, it is possible to provide the user with a method for managing the relay network.

[0033] Further, the recording medium on which the relay network management program according to the present invention is recorded records the relay network management program that enables the computer to realize the relay network management method according to the present invention.<u style="single">May be</u>。

[0034] By loading the program recorded on the recording medium into the computer system, it is possible to provide the user with the management method of the relay network.

[0035] Further, the relay network management device according to the present invention is a relay network management device that manages a relay network in which a plurality of communication terminals are connected to each other by relaying a plurality of repeaters connected so as to be able to communicate with each other. A relay route management unit that sets a relay route in the relay network based on the information about the battery sent from each repeater is provided, and the relay route management unit manages the relay network according to the present invention. Realize the method<u style="single">It may be configured.</u>[0036] According to the above configuration, since the relay route management unit that realizes the above-mentioned relay network management method is provided, as described above, the relay is relayed by increasing the frequency of use of the specific repeater. It is possible to prevent adverse effects such as the battery of the machine running out immediately and the frequency of charging maintenance becoming high, and it is possible to reduce the burden on the system administrator.

[Embodiment of the Invention] [Embodiment 1] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7.

(Overall Configuration) FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a sensor network system according to the present embodiment. This sensor network system is configured to include sensor networks 1a, 1b, 1c, a relay network 2, and a server (sensor network system management device, relay network management device) 3.

[0039] The sensor networks 1a, 1b, and 1c each include a sensor network controller 4 and a plurality of sensors 5 ... Although FIG. 2 shows the internal configuration of the sensor network 1a only, the sensor networks 1b and 1c also have the same configuration. In the following, unless the sensor networks 1a, 1b, and 1c are particularly distinguished, they are referred to as "sensor network 1".

[0040] The relay network 2 is composed of a plurality of repeaters 6a, 6b, 6c, and 6d. The repeaters can communicate with each other wirelessly. Here, the wireless communication range of a certain repeater does not have to be able to communicate with all the repeaters included in the relay network 2, but may be able to communicate with one or more other repeaters. It should be noted that each repeater does not have to be a system that communicates wirelessly, and may be a system that partially communicates by wire. By connecting a plurality of repeaters 6a, 6b, 6c, and 6d in a network form in this way, it is possible to construct a wide range of relay networks even if the communication range of one communication device is narrow. In the following, unless the repeaters 6a, 6b, 6c, and 6d are particularly distinguished, they will be referred to as "repeater 6".

[0041] The server 3 is a central block in the sensor network system, and has a function of centrally managing sensor information from each sensor network 1 and detecting the occurrence of a defect in the sensor network system. This server 3 is communicably connected to a specific repeater 6 in the relay network 2, which enables communication via the relay network 2. The connection form between the server 3 and the repeater 6 is not particularly limited, and either wireless communication or wired communication may be applied.

[0042] As described above, the sensor network 1 includes one sensor network controller 4 and a plurality of sensors 5 ... capable of data communication with the sensor network controller 4. Here, a data communication mode between the sensor network controller 4 and the sensor 5 ... will be described. A communication device is provided for each of the sensor network controller 4 and each sensor 5, and the communication device of the sensor network controller 4 is a master unit and the communication device of each sensor 5 is a slave unit. Then, data communication is performed between the master unit and the slave unit.

[0043] The data communication between the master unit and the slave unit may be wireless communication or wired communication. Wireless communication includes, for example, weak radio waves of wireless LAN (Local Area Network) standard and Bluetooth (registered trademark) standard, short-range wireless such as specified low-power wireless, optical radio, and short-range infrared. Communication etc. can be considered. As the wired communication, one using a LAN or one using a dedicated communication line can be considered.

[0044] As a communication method between the master unit and the slave unit, there are two-way communication or unidirectional communication, which differs depending on the type of the sensor 5. When the sensor 5 receives a control signal or the like from the sensor network controller 4 and is controlled or the like, the communication method is bidirectional communication. On the other hand, when the sensor 5 unilaterally sends a signal to the sensor network controller 4, the communication method is unidirectional communication from the slave unit to the master unit.

[0045] For the interface between the detection unit that performs detection and the communication device (slave unit) in the sensor 5, for example, RS-232C, RS-485, DeviceNET, or the like can be used. The analog current, analog voltage, pulse signal, etc. as the detection result by the detection unit are converted into digital signals by the D / A converter and sent from the sensor 5 to the sensor network controller 4 via the above interface.

[0046] The sensor network controller 4 receives the signals sent from the sensors 5 ..., and collectively transmits these signals to the server 3 via the relay network 2. The sensor network controller 4 is communicably connected to a specific repeater 6 in the relay network 2, which enables communication via the relay network 2. The connection form between the sensor network controller 4 and the repeater 6 is not particularly limited, and either wireless communication or wired communication may be applied.

Next, the configuration of the sensor network 1 will be described. One sensor network controller 4 usually manages a plurality of sensors 5 ... (for example, up to 256 sensors 5 and about 10 sensors 5 in the sensor network 3 for security management). Sensor network 1 is configured. The sensor networks 1 may overlap each other as shown in FIG.

[0048] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example in which a plurality of sensor networks 3 are overlapped with each other. In the example of FIG. 3, one sensor 5 belongs to a plurality of sensor networks 1 ..., or two sensor network controllers 4 exist in one sensor network 1. In this way, when the sensor 5 is managed by a plurality of sensor network controllers 4, the sensor 5 can operate normally by another sensor network controller 4 even if one sensor network controller 4 fails. Become. Therefore, it is desirable that the sensor 5, which requires high reliability, be managed by a plurality of sensor network controllers 4 as described above.

In the system of FIG. 2, each sensor 5 is identified by a unique sensor ID assigned to each. In the system of FIG. 2, it is possible to perform various sensing by using a large number of sensors 5 ..., and by increasing the amount of information that can be obtained, it is possible to grasp the situation in a more multifaceted manner. In order to use a large number of sensors 5 ..., the sensor ID may be set to a high bit (for example, 64 bits or more).

(Sensor) As the sensor 5 of the sensor network 1, various sensors are used. An example of this is as follows.

[0051] Examples of those that detect the human body and the like include a photoelectric sensor, a beam sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, an infrared sensor, and the like. Vibration sensors, acceleration sensors (3D sensors, ball semiconductor type sensors), etc. are used to detect the movement or destruction of an object. Those that detect sound include a microphone, a sound sensor, an acoustic sensor, and the like. There are video cameras and the like that detect images. Those that detect fires and the like include temperature sensors, smoke sensors, humidity sensors, and the like. Vehicles and the like are equipped with GPS (Global Positioning System), acceleration sensor, wiper ON / OFF sensor, vibration sensor, tilt sensor and the like. Lighting ON / OFF sensors, water leak sensors, etc. are installed indoors. Rain gauges, anemometers, thermometers, etc. are installed outdoors. In addition to these, there are a wide variety of sensors such as a capacitance level sensor, a capacitance intrusion sensor, a current sensor, a voltage sensor, a reed switch for detecting the opening and closing of a door, and a clock for detecting the time.

[0052] As described above, the sensor 5 provided in the sensor network 1 is not limited to what is generally called a "sensor", but detects a phenomenon and converts the detection result into an electric signal. Includes any device that can be sent to the sensor network controller 4.

[0053] Further, the sensor 5 of the sensor network 1 may include an active sensor. An active sensor is a sensor that can change its sensing function in response to changes in circumstances. An example of this active sensor is a sensor with a video camera. This active video camera sensor is equipped with a zoom function, an autofocus function, a direction switching function for switching the shooting direction, etc., in addition to the CCD (Charge Coupled Device) as a detection unit that performs detection, and is automatically or a sensor. A device that can be operated by a control signal from the network controller 4. With such an active sensor, more accurate detection can be performed according to the phenomenon. For example, in the example of the video camera, by detecting a moving object (smoke or the like) within the shooting range and switching the shooting direction in that direction, it is possible to shoot the moving object more accurately.

[0054] Further, the sensor 5 of the sensor network 1 may include an autonomous sensor. Here, the autonomous sensor means a sensor that periodically notifies the server 3 of information (sensor information) about the sensor itself and the detection result via the sensor network controller 4. The sensor information is, for example, information on the type of the sensor (including the contents that can be detected) and the arrangement (position, installation location).

[0055] The sensor may be attached to a moving body such as a vehicle. As the sensor moves, the information obtained from the detection results of that sensor can change. For example, considering a thermometer attached to a vehicle as a sensor, when the sensor detects the temperature, the position of the vehicle, that is, the position of the sensor, determines at which point the detection result represents the temperature. .. If an autonomous sensor is used in such a case, it is possible to always recognize at which point the temperature is detected.

[0056] The sensor 5 is usually selected according to a specific purpose such as vehicle theft monitoring, indoor intrusion monitoring, fire monitoring, etc., and is installed at an appropriate place according to the purpose. In addition, normally, a sensor network 1 is configured for each purpose, and processing such as monitoring and reporting for achieving the purpose is performed by the server 3.

[0057] The sensor 5 can be roughly classified into three types, a periodic type, an event type, and a polling type, depending on the detection result notification method, that is, the method of sending the detection data to the sensor network controller 4 of the detection result. Here, the periodic sensor notifies the detection result in a predetermined time cycle. The event type sensor notifies the detection result when the sensor 5 detects a predetermined phenomenon, for example, when a physical quantity equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold value is detected. The polling type sensor notifies the detection result when the notification command of the detection result is received from the sensor network controller 4 side.

[0058] Further, the sensor 5 includes a sensor 5 that is supplied with power and operates, and a sensor 5 that is not supplied with power and is operated by a built-in battery. Here, the sensor 5 operated by the battery will be referred to as a battery-powered sensor 5. Generally, the sensor 5 is installed everywhere, and it may be necessary to install it in a place where it is difficult to supply power. In such a case, the battery-powered sensor 5 will be used.

[0059] Such a battery-powered sensor 5 shall transmit information on the remaining battery level to the sensor network controller 4 together with the detection result by sensing. Information about the remaining battery level includes the remaining drive time, the charge ratio, the battery output voltage, and the like. Which of these information is output is determined by the capability of the battery control means provided in the battery-powered sensor 5, but if the purpose is to configure the battery-powered sensor 5 as inexpensively as possible, the battery It is preferable that the measurement result of the output voltage is output as it is. In the present embodiment, the battery-powered sensor 5 outputs the measurement result of the output voltage of the battery to the sensor network controller 4 as battery information.

(Sensor Network Controller) FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the sensor network controller 4. The sensor network controller 4 includes an arithmetic processing unit 41 that performs various arithmetic processing, a storage unit 42 that stores various data, a communication interface 43 that is an interface with the communication network 6, and a sensor interface 44 that is an interface with the sensor 5. It has.

[0061] The arithmetic processing unit 41 is composed of an arithmetic circuit such as a microcomputer, for example, and gives instructions to various data processing and various control circuits based on the arithmetic function. As a result, the arithmetic processing unit 41 controls the entire sensor network controller 4. The arithmetic processing unit 41 realizes each functional block of the signal processing unit 45, the detection data processing unit 46, the sensor control unit 47, and the battery information acquisition unit 48 by the above-mentioned arithmetic function. These functional blocks are realized, for example, by executing a program that realizes each function by a microcomputer.

[0062] The signal processing unit 45 processes the detection data performed by the detection data processing unit 46 and the sensor control unit 47 based on the control signal sent from the server 3 via the relay network 2 and the communication interface 43. Controls the process for controlling the sensor 5.

[0063] The detection data processing unit 46 performs predetermined processing as necessary on the detection data (primary data) as the detection result sent from the sensor 5 via the sensor interface 44, and performs the processing. The applied detection data (secondary data) is sent to the server 3 via the communication interface 43 and the relay network 2.

[0064] The detection data processing unit 46 may store the secondary data in the storage unit 42 and send the secondary data to the server 3 in response to a request from the server 3.

[0065] The signal processing unit 45 controls what kind of processing is performed on the detected data by the detection data processing unit 46. As a result, only useful detection data is sent to the server 3 from the detection data from the sensor 5, and the amount of data sent to the server 3 is reduced.

[0066] For example, as primary data from a video camera as a sensor 5, that is, image data, data of about 20 to 30 kilobits per screen may be constantly transmitted for 3 screens per second. The detection data processing unit 46 performs processing such as thinning out images with small changes on the primary data to generate useful secondary data with a small amount of data.

[0067] The sensor control unit 47 controls the sensor 5 by sending a control signal to the sensor 5 via the sensor interface 44. The control of the sensor 5 includes control of the transmission cycle of the detection data in the periodic sensor, control of the threshold value of the event type sensor, poll control for the poll type sensor, operation control of the active type sensor, and the like. How the sensor 5 is controlled by the sensor control unit 47 is based on a command from the signal processing unit 45.

[0068] The battery information acquisition unit 48 is a block that acquires battery information input from the battery-driven sensor 5 and input via the sensor interface 44. The battery information acquired here is temporarily stored in the storage unit 42, and then transmitted to the server 3 via the communication interface 43 and the relay network 2.

[0069] The storage unit 42 stores various programs and data for performing various processes in the arithmetic processing unit 41, and is realized by, for example, a flash EEPROM or the like.

(Server) FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the server 3. The server 3 is a computer installed in a monitoring center in the sensor network system, and monitors sensor outputs from all the sensors 5 ... installed in the sensor network system, manages the remaining battery level of each sensor 5, and manages each sensor 5. It controls the operation of the sensor 5.

[0071] The server 3 includes a communication interface 33 that serves as an interface with the relay network 2, an arithmetic processing unit 31 that performs various arithmetic processing, and a storage unit 32 that stores various data related to each sensor 5. Further, the server 3 includes a display unit 38 that displays the monitoring status and the like to the operator, and an input unit 39 that receives various inputs of the operator.

[0072] The arithmetic processing unit 31 is composed of an arithmetic circuit such as a microcomputer, for example, and gives instructions to various data processing and various control circuits based on the arithmetic function. As a result, the arithmetic processing unit 31 controls the entire server 3. The arithmetic processing unit 31 realizes each functional block of the input / output processing unit 34, the sensor control unit 35, the sensor signal determination unit 36, and the drive time control unit 37 by the above arithmetic function. These functional blocks are realized, for example, by executing a program that realizes each function by a microcomputer.

[0073] The input / output processing unit 34 is a block that performs processing related to input / output of various signals to / from the sensor 5 ... via the sensor network controller 4, the relay network 2, and the communication interface 33.

[0074] The sensor signal determination unit 36 is a block that analyzes the sensor signal sent from the sensor 5, that is, the information of the detection result by the sensor 5, and determines whether or not there is an abnormality. This determination is made based on the sensor database 40a stored in the storage unit 32. The determination result in the sensor signal determination unit 36 is appropriately displayed on the display unit 38.

[0075] The drive time control unit 37 analyzes the battery information sent from the battery-driven sensor 5, calculates the remaining drive time of the battery-driven sensor 5, and the battery according to the remaining drive time. It is a block that calculates the control method of the operating state of the drive type sensor 5. These processes are performed based on the sensor database 40a and the output voltage-remaining capacity table 40b stored in the storage unit 32. The details of the processing in the drive time control unit 37 will be described later. The content of the processing in the drive time control unit 37 is appropriately displayed on the display unit 38.

[0076] The sensor control unit 35 is a block that controls the operating state of the sensors 5 ... Provided in the sensor network system. The operation state of the sensor 5 ... is controlled by the control content stored in the sensor database 40a, the determination result by the sensor signal determination unit 36, the operation state control method calculated by the drive time control unit 37, and the operation state control method. This is performed based on an input instruction from the input unit 39 by the operator. A control signal for the designated sensor 5 is transmitted from the sensor control unit 35 to the corresponding sensor 5 from the communication interface 33 via the input / output processing unit 34.

[0077] The storage unit 32 is a block that stores the sensor database 40a and the output voltage-remaining capacity table 40b, and also stores various programs and data for performing various processes in the arithmetic processing unit 31. The storage unit 32 is realized by a storage device such as a hard disk drive.

Next, the sensor database 40a will be described. The sensor database 40a is a database that stores information about all the sensors 5 ... provided in the sensor network system. The following is an example of information about each sensor 5 included in the sensor database 40a.

[0079] First, information on the location and position where the corresponding sensor 5 is installed can be mentioned. This is information such as, for example, the area where the sensor 5 is installed (place name, longitude, latitude, etc.) and the installation form (ground, underground, wall surface, height from the ground, etc.).

Next, there is information about the sensing target detected by the sensor 5, in other words, information about what kind of sensor the sensor 5 is. This provides information on the types of sensors described above, such as temperature sensors and ultrasonic sensors. The information also includes the above-mentioned classification of sensors, for example, classifications such as active type and autonomous type, and classifications such as periodic type, event type, and polling type.

Next, information on the sensor network 1 to which the corresponding sensor 5 belongs can be given. From this information, it is possible to grasp which sensor network 1 the corresponding sensor 5 belongs to and which sensor network controller 4 controls it.

Next, information on conditions for determining whether or not the detection result by the corresponding sensor 5 is abnormal can be given. As this condition, for example, when the detection result exceeds a certain threshold value, it is determined that this is an abnormality.

Next, information on whether or not the corresponding sensor 5 is battery-powered can be mentioned. In the case of the battery-powered sensor 5, the type of battery used as the battery, the average power consumption of the sensor 5, and the like are stored in the sensor database 40a.

Next, when the corresponding sensor 5 is of the periodic type, the information regarding the period for notifying the detection result is stored in the sensor database 40a. Further, when the corresponding sensor 5 is a polling type, information on the polling interval or the polling condition is stored in the sensor database 40a. Further, when the corresponding sensor 5 is an event type, information on the event condition that triggers the notification of the detection result is stored in the sensor database 40a.

[0085] The above information is stored in the sensor database 40a for each sensor 5. Here, it is assumed that each sensor 5 is identified by the above-mentioned sensor ID, and the signal sent to the server 3 includes the sensor ID as a header.

Next, the processing in the drive time control unit 37 will be described. As described above, the drive time control unit 37 calculates the remaining drive time based on the battery information sent from the battery drive sensor 5, and the battery drive sensor 5 according to the remaining drive time. Performs the process of calculating the control method of the operating state of. These two processes will be described in detail below.

[0087] First, a process of calculating the remaining drive time in the battery-powered sensor 5 will be described. As described above, the battery-powered sensor 5 transmits the measurement result of the battery output voltage to the server 3 as battery information. The drive time control unit 37 first calculates the remaining capacity of the battery based on the battery output voltage. The battery information may be transmitted from the battery-powered sensor 5 to the server 3 voluntarily on a regular basis, or may be performed in response to a request from the server 3.

[0088] FIG. 6 is a graph showing the relationship between the discharge capacity and the battery voltage in a nickel-metal hydride storage battery which is a secondary battery as an example of a battery. As shown in the figure, the secondary battery has a characteristic that the discharge capacity increases, that is, the remaining capacity decreases and the output voltage decreases. By using this characteristic, the remaining capacitance can be estimated from the output voltage.

[0089] For example, in the case of the nickel-metal hydride storage battery shown in FIG. 6, the relationship between the output voltage and the remaining capacity can be read from the graph as follows. When the output voltage is 1.40V, the remaining capacity ratio is 90%, and assuming that 1600mAh is the full charge capacity, the remaining capacity is estimated to be 1440mAh. Similarly, when the output voltage is 1.27V, the remaining capacity ratio is estimated to be 50% and the remaining capacity is 800mAh, and when the output voltage is 1.15V, the remaining capacity ratio is estimated to be 10% and the remaining capacity is 160mAh.

Therefore, first, the storage unit 32 has an output showing the relationship between the output voltage and the remaining capacity as shown in FIG. 6 for each type of battery used in the sensor 5 included in the sensor network system. Remember the voltage-residual capacity table 40b. Then, the drive time control unit 37 can grasp the remaining capacity of the sensor 5 that has transmitted the battery information by referring to the output voltage-remaining capacity table 40b.

[0091] When the remaining capacity is confirmed, the remaining drive time is calculated based on this. The average power consumption of each sensor 5 is stored in the sensor database 40. Therefore, the remaining drive time can be calculated by the formula of remaining drive time = remaining capacity / average power consumption. The remaining drive time calculated here is recorded in the column of the corresponding sensor 5 in the sensor database 40a.

The process flow up to this point will be described as follows with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. 7. First, in step 1 (hereinafter referred to as S1), when the drive time control unit 37 receives the battery information from a certain sensor 5 from the input / output processing unit 34, the sensor ID shown in the header is used. Extract (S2). Then, by inquiring to the sensor database 40a, the type of battery used in the sensor 5 that has transmitted the battery information is confirmed (S3). After that, the output voltage-residual capacity table 40b is queried, and the remaining capacity is confirmed based on the output voltage information (S4). Then, by inquiring to the sensor database 40a, the average power consumption of the corresponding sensor 5 is specified (S5), and the remaining drive time of the corresponding sensor 5 is calculated based on the remaining capacity and the average power consumption (S6).

Next, a process of calculating the control method of the operating state of the battery-powered sensor 5 according to the remaining drive time, which is performed by the drive time control unit 37, will be described.

[0094] In the case of a system in which a plurality of battery-powered sensors 5 are provided, such as the sensor network system according to the present embodiment, when a sensor 5 having a remaining battery capacity of 0 is generated, the sensor 5 is subjected to. Maintenance is required to charge the battery. The capacity and power consumption of the battery in each sensor 5 vary, and the timing at which the remaining capacity of the battery becomes 0 differs depending on each sensor 5. In this case, the frequency of charging processing increases, and the maintenance burden on the administrator of the sensor network system increases.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, by controlling the operating state of the sensor 5 according to the remaining capacity of the battery in each sensor 5, the remaining drive time is made substantially equal among the sensors 5. There is. As a result, it is possible to charge the batteries of many sensors 5 with one charge processing maintenance, and it is possible to significantly reduce the frequency of performing the charging processing. Here, assuming that the target value of the remaining drive time is referred to as the target remaining drive time, the above control controls the operation of each sensor 5 so that the remaining drive time in each sensor 5 becomes the target remaining drive time. It will be. This control method will be described in detail below.

[0096] First, the target remaining drive time is set as follows. Among the sensors 5 included in the sensor network system, the remaining drive time of the sensor 5 whose remaining drive time is controlled is recorded in the sensor database 40a as described above. Therefore, at a certain point in time, the drive time control unit 37 extracts the longest remaining drive time from the remaining drive times of each sensor 5 recorded in the sensor database 40a. Then, this longest remaining drive time is set as the target remaining drive time and stored in the storage unit 32. The target remaining drive time will be appropriately changed according to the operating state of each sensor 5, as will be described later.

Specific control methods for each sensor 5 include (1) detection time control, (2) detection / report count control, (3) wireless output control, and (4) operation permission temperature control. (5) Control of drive power, etc.

First, (1) control of the detection time will be described. The sensor 5 actually performs detection (detection time) differs depending on the detection target and the detection operation. The sensor 5 is roughly classified into two types: a continuous type in which the detection operation is continuously performed for a certain period of time, and a periodic type in which the detection operation is temporarily performed in a certain period. As an example of the continuous type, for example, the detection is performed 24 hours a day, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, the detection time is set in the day, and the detection time is set according to the day of the week. The ones that are, etc. are mentioned. Examples of the periodic type include those that manage the period of detection on the sensor 5 side, those that perform detection by instructions from the server 2 side, and the like. In this periodic type, the operation period of one detection operation performed in a fixed cycle is set to a predetermined value, for example, the data detected during this operation period is averaged and notified to the server 2. Control is performed.

[0099] In the case of the continuous type, it is possible to lengthen the remaining drive time and approach the target remaining drive time by shortening the detection time set as the default. Further, in the case of the periodic type, it is possible to lengthen the remaining drive time and approach the target remaining drive time by shortening the operation period of one detection operation set as the default.

Next, (2) control of the number of detections and reports will be described. The sensor 5 to be controlled is the periodic type sensor 5 described above. As described above, the periodic sensor 5 temporarily performs the detection operation at a fixed cycle, reduces the frequency of performing this detection operation, and notifies the server 2 of the detection result. By reducing the frequency, the remaining drive time can be lengthened, and the target remaining drive time can be approached.

Next, (3) control of wireless output will be described. The sensor 5 to be controlled is the sensor 5 that wirelessly communicates the detection result to the sensor network controller 4. As shown in FIG. 3, some sensors 5 of the wireless communication system belong to a plurality of sensor networks 1 ..., and such a sensor 5 is a plurality of sensor network controllers 4. It is possible to communicate with. In this case, the wireless output is set to the extent that it can communicate with the sensor network controller 4 which is the farthest or the radio wave is hard to reach among the sensor network controllers 4 ... which can communicate. Therefore, by reducing the radio output to the extent that the communicable sensor network controller 4 does not exist, the remaining drive time can be lengthened, and the target remaining drive time can be approached.

Next, (4) control of the permitted operating temperature will be described. The sensor 5 to be controlled is a sensor 5 that consumes more power in a high temperature environment due to the resistance value and the temperature dependence of the chemical battery. By controlling the sensor 5 to stop its operation when the environmental temperature is equal to or higher than a predetermined value, it is possible to lengthen the remaining drive time and bring it closer to the target remaining drive time. It will be possible.

Next, (5) control of drive power will be described. The sensor 5 to be controlled is a sensor 5 capable of increasing or decreasing the driving power required for the detection operation. As an example, an intrusion sensor that emits electromagnetic waves such as millimeter waves and microwaves to detect an intruding object can be considered. In this intrusion sensor, the sensor range can be widened by increasing the output of the electromagnetic wave, and conversely, the sensor range can be narrowed by decreasing the output of the electromagnetic wave. That is, by reducing the drive power corresponding to the output of the electromagnetic wave, the remaining drive time can be lengthened, and the target remaining drive time can be approached.

[0104] In the above, the control of (1) to (5) has been described as a specific control method for each sensor 5, but in addition, the remaining drive time of the sensor 5 can be lengthened. If there is motion control, it may be applied.

[0105] As described above, in order to lengthen the remaining drive time in the sensor 5, the drive time control unit 37 controls in a direction of suppressing various operations in each sensor 5. Specifically, the operation control amount is calculated as follows.

[0106] First, it is assumed that the relationship between the operation control amount for each operation type and the average power consumption in the operation control amount is recorded in the sensor database 40a in the form of a table. Then, the target average power consumption for achieving the target remaining drive time is obtained from the remaining capacity of the corresponding sensor 5 and the target remaining drive time. Specifically, it is calculated by the formula: target average power consumption = remaining capacity / target remaining time. Then, the operation control amount having the average power consumption closest to the target average power consumption is specified by referring to the sensor database 40a.

[0107] Here, if various operations in the sensor 5 are suppressed more than necessary in an attempt to increase the remaining drive time, the remaining drive time is extended, but the required sensing operation cannot be obtained. It is also possible.

[0108] Therefore, for each sensor 5, the operation control minimum value, which is the minimum value of the operation parameter capable of operation control, is recorded in the sensor database 40a. For example, (1) regarding the control of the detection time, the minimum value of the detection time required for the corresponding sensor 5 is recorded in the sensor database 40a as the minimum value of the operation control. When the amount of motion control required to achieve the target remaining drive time is lower than the minimum motion control value, the motion control is set to the minimum motion control value and is realized by the motion control. The remaining drive time is calculated, and this is newly set as the target remaining drive time.

[0109] The calculation of the target remaining drive time here is performed as follows. First, it is assumed that the average power consumption when each sensor 5 is set to the minimum operation control value is recorded in the sensor database 40a. Then, the drive time control unit 37 reads the average power consumption of the corresponding sensor 5 from the sensor database 40a, and confirms the remaining capacity of the corresponding sensor 5. Then, the remaining drive time is calculated by the formula of remaining drive time = remaining capacity / average power consumption, and this is set as the target remaining drive time.

[0110] The above will be summarized and the operation control amount setting process of each sensor 5 in the drive time control unit 37 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. First, in S11, the remaining drive time of the corresponding sensor 5 is calculated by processing the flowchart shown in FIG. 7. Then, it is determined whether or not the remaining drive time is equal to or less than the target remaining drive time calculated by the above method (S12).

[0111] When it is determined in S12 that NO, that is, the remaining drive time is larger than the target remaining drive time, this remaining drive time is set as a new target remaining drive time (S13) and registered in the storage unit 32. To do. Then, the current operation control amount is applied to this sensor 5 as it is.

On the other hand, when YES in S12, that is, when it is determined that the remaining drive time is equal to or less than the target remaining drive time, the controllable operation type in the corresponding sensor is specified by referring to the sensor database 40a (S14). ). After that, the target average power consumption is calculated by the above formula based on the remaining capacity of the corresponding sensor 5 and the target remaining drive time (S15). The target average power consumption obtained here is compared with the average power consumption for each operation control amount stored in the sensor database 40a, and the operation control amount that is the closest to the target average power consumption is specified. (S16).

Then, it is determined whether or not the motion control amount specified in S16 is equal to or greater than the motion control minimum value stored in the sensor database 40a (S17). Here, when it is determined that the motion control amount is smaller than the motion control minimum value (NO in S17), the motion control minimum value is set as the motion control amount in the corresponding sensor 5, and that fact is set for the corresponding sensor 5. Notify and instruct (S18). On the other hand, when it is determined that the motion control amount is equal to or greater than the motion control minimum value (YES in S17), this motion control amount is set as the motion control amount in the corresponding sensor 5, and that fact is set for the corresponding sensor 5. Notify and instruct (S19).

[0114] It is also considered that there is an important sensor in the sensor 5 that does not make sense unless it operates with the operation control amount set by default, that is, the operation cannot be reduced. Be done. Such a sensor will be registered in the sensor database 40a as not applicable to the above motion control.

[0115] In the present embodiment, the server 3 is provided with the drive time control unit 37, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the server 3 may be provided in another communication terminal or the communication network controller 4. It may be provided as a configuration.

【0116】 [<u style="single">As a reference example</u>Embodiment] Of the present invention<u style="single">As a reference example</u>An embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS. 8 to 10. The same reference numerals are given to the configurations having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0117] The sensor network system according to the present embodiment can control the relay route in the relay network 2 in addition to the functions of the sensor network system in the first embodiment. The configuration of the sensor network system according to the present embodiment is the same as the configuration described with reference to FIG. 2 in the first embodiment, and the difference is that the configuration of the server 3 is different. The configuration of this server 3 will be described later.

[0118] In the sensor network system according to the present embodiment, the relay network 2 has a configuration in which data is transmitted / received between the server 3 and each sensor network 1 by relaying a plurality of repeaters 6 ... .. Some repeaters 6 can supply power, but depending on the installation conditions, it may be difficult to supply power. In such cases, the repeater 6 will be driven by a battery. ..

[0119] The communication path in the relay network 2 changes variously depending on the positional relationship between the server 3 and the sensor network controller 4 that transmits / receives data. Further, as described above, since each repeater 6 ... can communicate with one or more other repeaters 6, there are also a plurality of communication paths between the server 3 and the specific sensor network controller 4. Pattern will exist.

[0120] In the case of such a system, the frequency with which the specific repeater 6 is used may be significantly increased depending on the method of selecting the communication path. When the repeater 6 is a battery-powered system, the remaining capacity of the battery is immediately reduced, and it becomes necessary to charge the battery frequently. Therefore, the frequency of maintenance for charging increases, and the burden on the administrator of the sensor network system increases. Further, if the frequency of use of the specific repeater 6 becomes extremely high, there is also an adverse effect that the service life of the repeater 6 itself and the battery is shortened.

Therefore, in the present invention, by controlling the relay path in the relay network 2 and selecting the repeater 6 to perform the relay operation, the frequency of use of each repeater 6 is equalized. .. As a result, it is possible to prevent the above-mentioned adverse effects caused by the remarkably high frequency of use of the specific repeater 6.

[0122] In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the battery-powered repeater 6 notifies the server 3 of battery information, for example, periodically. The battery information here is the same as the battery information transmitted by the sensor 5 in the first embodiment. This control method will be described in detail below.

[0123] First, the outline of the relay route in the relay network 2 will be described with reference to FIG. As shown in FIG. 9, as an example, it is assumed that the relay network 2 is composed of four repeaters 6a, 6b, 6c, and 6d. Then, it is assumed that the repeater that the sensor network 1 can communicate with is only the repeater 6a, and the repeater that the server 3 can communicate with is only the repeater 6d.

[0124] In the relay network 2, the repeater 6a can communicate only with the repeater 6b and the repeater 6c, and the repeater 6d can also communicate with only the repeater 6b and the repeater 6c. In this case, when communicating between the sensor network 1 and the server 3, the route R1 via the repeater 6a to the repeater 6b to the repeater 6d and the repeater 6a to the repeater 6c to the repeater 6d are used. There will be a route R2 to pass through.

[0125] Here, for example, it is assumed that the remaining battery capacity of the repeater 6b is low. In this case, when communicating between the sensor network 1 and the server 3, if control is performed so as to go through the path R2, the repeater 6b does not need to perform the relay operation. Therefore, the repeater 6b It is possible to suppress the decrease of the battery. The control of the relay route in the present embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0126] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the server 3 in the present embodiment. Compared to the server 3 shown in FIG. 5, this server 3 further includes a relay route management unit 51 in the arithmetic processing unit 31 and a repeater database 40c in the storage unit 32. The point is different. The same applies to other configurations.

[0127] The relay route management unit 51 sets an optimum relay route based on the battery information transmitted from the repeater 6 and input via the communication interface 33 and the input / output processing unit 34, and the set relay is set. A signal for realizing the route is transmitted to each repeater 6 in the relay network 2 via the input / output processing unit 34 and the communication interface 33. The processing content of the relay route management unit 51 is appropriately displayed on the display unit 38, and the settings and the like can be appropriately changed by input from the input unit 39 by the operator.

The repeater database 40c is a database that stores information about all the repeaters 6 ... included in the relay network 2. An example of information about each repeater 6 is given below.

[0129] First, information on the location and location where the relevant repeater 6 is installed can be mentioned. This is information such as, for example, the area where the repeater 6 is installed (place name, longitude, latitude, etc.) and the installation form (ground, underground, wall surface, height from the ground, etc.).

[0130] Next, information on whether or not the relevant repeater 6 is battery-powered can be given. In the case of the battery-powered repeater 6, the type of battery used as the battery, the average power consumption when the repeater 6 performs the relay operation, and the like are stored in the repeater database 40c.

[0131] Next, information on another repeater 6 with which the relevant repeater 6 can communicate is given. Here, information about the distance to another repeater 6 capable of communicating is also recorded.

[0132] The above information is stored in the repeater database 40c for each repeater 6. Here, it is assumed that each repeater 6 is identified by the repeater ID, and the battery signal sent to the server 3 includes the repeater ID as a header.

[0133] Further, the repeater database 40c stores information on all selectable relay routes for all the sensor network controllers 4 ... Included in the sensor network system.

Next, the flow of processing in the relay route management unit 51 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. First, in S21, it is detected that there is a demand for transmitting and receiving signals between the server 3 and the specific sensor network controller 4. This detection is realized, for example, by detecting that an initial signal sequence indicating that a signal transmission / reception is started has been performed. As the relay path of this initial signal sequence, the relay path set before that is used.

Next, information on all the relay routes that can be selected with the corresponding sensor network controller 4 is acquired by querying the repeater database 40c (S22). Then, the information on the remaining battery capacity of the repeater 6 ... included in each relay path is acquired by inquiring the repeater database 40c (S23).

[0136] After that, the repeater 6 having the smallest remaining battery capacity is specified in each relay path (S24). Then, among the relays 6 having the smallest remaining battery capacity in each relay path, the relay path including the repeater 6 having the largest remaining battery capacity is selected and set as the relay path for transmitting and receiving signals (S25). ).

[0137] In the above example, the repeater database 40c stores information on all selectable relay routes for all the sensor network controllers 4 ... Included in the sensor network system. ing. However, instead of storing this information in the repeater database 40c, the relay route management unit 51 may calculate the selectable relay route for the corresponding sensor network controller 4 in the relay route selection process. This can be calculated by the relay route management unit 51 reading out the information stored in the repeater database 40c as to which repeater 6 each repeater 6 can communicate with.

[0138] In the present embodiment, the server 3 is provided with the relay route management unit, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the server 3 may be provided with other communication terminals.

[Effect of the Invention] As described above, the sensor network system management method according to the present invention can communicate with a plurality of sensors, receives sensor information from each sensor, and operates on each sensor. It is a sensor network system management method performed in the sensor network system management device that performs control, and is a step of acquiring the remaining driving time of the battery in each sensor, a step of setting a target remaining driving time, and a step of setting the battery in each of the above sensors. This is a method having a step of controlling the operation of each sensor so that the remaining drive time and the target remaining drive time are substantially equal to each other.

[0140] This allows most of the battery-powered sensors included in the sensor network system to be set so that the remaining battery capacity runs out at about the same time, so that many sensors can be maintained in a single charge process. The battery can be charged, and the frequency of charging processing can be significantly reduced. In addition, this has the effect of reducing the maintenance burden on the administrator who manages the sensor network system.

[0141] Further, the sensor network system management method according to the present invention is a method in which the target remaining drive time is set to the remaining drive time of the battery in the sensor having the longest remaining drive time of the battery at that time.

[0142] As a result, in addition to the effect of the above method, the period until charging is required can be lengthened, so that the frequency of charging processing can be reduced and the burden of maintenance can be reduced. It has the effect of being able to do it.

[0143] Further, the sensor network system management method according to the present invention detects the remaining capacity of the battery, calculates the target average power consumption from the remaining capacity and the target remaining drive time, and calculates the target average power consumption. This is a method of controlling the operation of the corresponding sensor so as to realize power consumption.

[0144] As a result, if the target average power consumption is set as described above in addition to the effect of the above method, how to operate the corresponding sensor can realize the target remaining drive time. Since it is possible to grasp whether or not the sensor is used, it is possible to accurately grasp how to control the operation of each sensor.

[0145] Further, in the sensor network system management method according to the present invention, in the above method, the operation control minimum value for realizing the minimum function is set for each sensor, and the operation control minimum value is set for each sensor. This is a method of preventing the operation control from falling below the above-mentioned minimum operation control value.

[0146] As a result, in addition to the effect of the above method, it is possible to prevent the required detection operation from being performed by considering only the realization of the target remaining drive time. It works. That is, the effect is that the minimum required operation of the sensor can be guaranteed.

[0147] Further, the sensor network system management program according to the present invention is configured to realize the above-mentioned sensor network system management method according to the present invention on a computer.

[0148] As a result, by loading the program into the computer system, it is possible to provide the user with the sensor network system management method.

[0149] Further, the recording medium on which the sensor network system management program according to the present invention is recorded is configured to record the sensor network system management program that realizes the sensor network system management method according to the present invention on a computer.

[0150] As a result, by loading the program recorded on the recording medium into the computer system, it is possible to provide the user with the sensor network system management method.

[0151] Further, the sensor network system management device according to the present invention can communicate with a plurality of sensors, receives sensor information from each sensor, and controls the operation of each sensor. A drive time control unit that calculates an operation control amount for the corresponding sensor based on information about a battery sent from each sensor is provided, and the drive time control unit manages the sensor network system according to the present invention. It is a configuration that realizes the method.

[0152] As a result, it is possible to charge the batteries of many sensors by one charge processing maintenance, and it is possible to significantly reduce the frequency of performing the charging processing. Therefore, management for managing the sensor network system is possible. It has the effect of reducing the maintenance burden on the person.

[0153] Further, the relay network management method according to the present invention is a relay network management method in which a plurality of communication terminals are communicated and connected by relaying a plurality of repeaters connected so as to be able to communicate with each other. , A step of acquiring a selectable relay route when communication is performed between two specific communication terminals, and a step of acquiring information on the remaining battery capacity of the repeater included in each of the selectable relay routes. Including the step of identifying the repeater having the smallest remaining battery capacity in each of the above relay paths, and the repeater having the largest remaining battery capacity among the repeaters having the smallest remaining battery capacity in each of the above relay paths. It has a step of selecting an existing relay path and setting it as a relay path for transmitting and receiving signals between the two specific communication terminals, and the plurality of communication terminals can communicate with a plurality of sensors. This is a method of receiving sensor information from each sensor and controlling the operation of each sensor.<u style="single">age</u><u style="single">You may.</u>[0154] As a result, it is possible to equalize the decrease in the remaining capacity of the battery in each repeater. Therefore, as the frequency of use of a specific repeater increases, the battery of the repeater runs out immediately, and charging maintenance is performed. It is possible to prevent adverse effects such as an increase in the frequency of performing the above, and it is possible to reduce the burden on the system administrator. Further, if the frequency of use of a specific repeater becomes extremely high, there is an adverse effect that the service life of the repeater itself and the battery is shortened. However, according to the above method, this problem can be solved. Play.

[0155] Further, in the above-mentioned relay network, the repeaters are often far apart from each other, and maintenance of the charging process for the battery of the repeater is relatively laborious, but as described above. In addition, since the frequency of charge maintenance can be reduced, the burden on the system administrator can be greatly reduced.

[0156] Further, the relay network management program according to the present invention has a configuration in which a computer realizes the above-mentioned relay network management method according to the present invention.<u style="single">May be.</u>[0157] As a result, by loading the program into the computer system, it is possible to provide the user with the management method of the relay network.

[0158] Further, the recording medium on which the relay network management program according to the present invention is recorded is configured to record the relay network management program that realizes the relay network management method according to the present invention on a computer.<u style="single">May be.</u>[0159] As a result, by loading the program recorded on the recording medium into the computer system, it is possible to provide the user with the management method of the relay network.

[0160] Further, the relay network management device according to the present invention is a relay network management device that manages a relay network that connects a plurality of communication terminals by relaying a plurality of repeaters that are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate with each other. A relay route management unit that sets a relay route in the relay network based on the information about the battery sent from each repeater is provided, and the relay route management unit manages the relay network according to the present invention. Configuration to realize the method<u style="single">May be.</u>[0161] As a result, it is possible to prevent adverse effects such as an increase in the frequency of use of a specific repeater, which causes the battery of the repeater to run out immediately, and an increase in the frequency of charge maintenance. It has the effect of reducing the burden on the administrator.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing a flow of setting processing of an operation control amount of each sensor in a sensor network system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the sensor network system.

FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing an example in which a plurality of sensor networks are overlapped.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a sensor network controller.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a server.

FIG. 6 is a graph showing the relationship between the discharge capacity and the battery voltage in a nickel-metal hydride storage battery which is a secondary battery.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a processing flow when estimating the remaining capacity of the battery and calculating the remaining drive time.

FIG. 8 of the present invention<u style="single">As a reference example</u>It is a block diagram which shows the schematic structure of the server in embodiment.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a relay route in a relay network.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a processing flow in the relay route management unit.

[Explanation of codes] 1 1a 1b 1c Sensor network 2 Relay network 3 Server (sensor network system management device, relay network management device) 4 Sensor network controller 5 Sensor 6 6a 6b 6c 6d repeater 31 Calculation Processing unit 32 Storage unit 35 Sensor control unit 36 Sensor signal judgment unit 37 Drive time control unit 40a Sensor database 40b Output voltage-remaining capacity table 40c Repeater database 51 Relay route management unit