JP4838050B2 - Wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater, explosion-proof switching hub, explosion-proof wireless communication means, switching hub with explosion-proof wireless communication means, and communication system in hazardous areas - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a wireless LAN (local area network) explosion-proof repeater, an explosion-proof switching hub, explosion-proof wireless communication means, a switching hub with explosion-proof wireless communication means, and a communication system in a hazardous area. In a large hazardous area such as a refinery or petrochemical factory where handling is performed, a large amount of data related to operation data of the manufacturing facility is transmitted between the manufacturing facility in the hazardous area and the management facility in the non-hazardous area. Communicate safely and efficiently via LAN explosion-proof repeaters, telecommunications cables, explosion-proof switching hubs, telecommunications cables and explosion-proof wireless communication means, and wireless LAN access points in non-hazardous areas Wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater, explosion-proof switching hub, explosion-proof wireless communication means, A communication system in the mold wireless communication means with a switching hub and dangerous area.

Refineries, petrochemical plants, etc. have many production facilities installed. In order to operate these plants safely and efficiently, these production facilities are in a certain period (for example, until the next periodic inspection). It needs to work properly.
For this reason, it is necessary not only to properly operate the manufacturing facility, but also to confirm that the manufacturing facility is operating normally, and to detect an abnormality at an early stage and deal with it promptly when an abnormality occurs.

  In particular, in refineries and petrochemical plants, an electrometer for production in a place (hazardous area in the present invention) where there is a possibility of the presence of flammable gas or vapor of flammable liquid (abbreviated as explosive gas as appropriate) Electric equipment such as equipment and motors are installed. These facilities and equipment generally have an explosion-proof structure that does not generate an electric spark that has an ignition capability for explosive gas or does not ignite surrounding explosive gas even if it occurs. is there.

By the way, the risk areas of refineries and petrochemical plants are usually very large, so it is necessary to use measuring instruments installed in multiple manufacturing facilities and computers in measurement rooms provided in non-hazardous areas. Connecting the cables and collecting the operation data of the manufacturing equipment has a drawback that it is economically expensive considering the cost of the measurement cable and the cost of installing it.
For this reason, the technique which solves the said fault has been proposed.

For example, in an explosion-proof antenna installed in a hazardous area, a container made of a hollow cylinder having a pressure-proof explosion-proof structure made of a material that transmits radio waves transmitted and received by the antenna body, having one end side closed and the other end side open. The antenna body is housed in the hollow cylindrical body of the container, and the container housing the antenna is directly projected from the outer wall surface of the fully closed container so as to satisfy the explosion-proof structure and connected. An explosion-proof antenna technology is disclosed (see Patent Document 1).
According to this technology, in order to construct a circuit having an intrinsically safe explosion-proof structure, a circuit such as a series connection of a plurality of blocking capacitors is not required, and it is necessary to perform grounding work on the transmission line's cider line. Therefore, the entire apparatus can have a simple structure.
Japanese Patent No. 3040068

However, in order to operate the plant safely and efficiently at a higher level, and in order to further improve the safety of the plant in the event of a disaster, the operation data of the equipment, the history data of equipment management, the field operation drawing It is necessary to communicate a large amount of data such as information, monitoring image information, and acoustic information closely between the dangerous area and the non-hazardous area, and manage it accurately based on these data. On the other hand, the technique of the explosion-proof antenna has a problem that it cannot respond to the above-mentioned extremely important request because a large amount of data cannot be efficiently communicated.
In addition, it has been necessary to meet demands for improving the reliability of data communication and reducing installation costs.

  The present invention has been proposed to solve the above problems, and a large amount of data can be obtained between a vast danger area such as a refinery or a petrochemical factory and a non-hazardous area via a wireless LAN. Wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater, explosion-proof switching hub, explosion-proof wireless communication means, explosion-proof wireless communication means that can safely and efficiently communicate data, improve data communication reliability and reduce installation costs, etc. The purpose is to provide a communication hub in a hazardous area.

In order to achieve the above object, a wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater of the present invention includes a wireless LAN access point that communicates with a transceiver by wireless LAN, and one or more wireless LAN access points connected to the wireless LAN access point. An antenna, a telecommunication cable connected to the wireless LAN access point, and a radio wave transmitting material that transmits radio waves transmitted and received by the antenna are used at least in part, and the wireless LAN access point and the antenna are accommodated However, the airtight container has a pressure-proof explosion-proof structure.
In this way, a large amount of data can be communicated safely and efficiently by using the wireless LAN. In addition, by using a telecommunication cable instead of an optical cable, the size and weight can be reduced, and the manufacturing cost and the installation cost can be reduced.
The transmitter / receiver is a portable computer, an explosion-proof camera, a mobile device carried by an operator who confirms the site, and information transmitted / received includes plant operation data, piping diagram information, operation method information, plant design data. , Information related to plot display of equipment, information related to operation procedures, information related to piping and instrumentation diagrams, information related to board operation automation systems, information related to equipment inspection, and image information.

Preferably, the antenna is a cardioid antenna.
In this way, the radio wave output can be further increased. Furthermore, the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater can be reduced in size and weight, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced.

Preferably, the sealed container includes a cylindrical portion made of the radio wave transmitting material, which is shielded at one end and opened at the other end, and a base connected to the other end of the cylindrical portion. The antenna may be housed in the housing.
If it does in this way, the mechanical strength of a cylinder part can be raised and the direction of an antenna can be set up freely.

Preferably, a power supply unit is housed in the sealed container.
As a power supply unit, an AC adapter, a stabilized power supply, a battery, a solar cell, and the like are used. By storing such a power supply unit, a commonly used AC power supply (for example, AC 100V power supply) is used. It is possible to reduce the installation cost because it is not necessary to install the power supply wiring.

Preferably, the telecommunications cable is connected to an explosion-proof switching hub.
In this way, a plurality of wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters can be arranged around the explosion-proof switching hub at low cost, and the communicable area can be efficiently expanded.

To achieve the above object, explosion-proof switching hub of the present invention, a switching hub connected to the telecommunications cables wireless LAN Ex repeater described above, lightning surge protection which is connected to said telecommunications cable And a switching container and a protective container, and a sealed container having a pressure-proof explosion-proof structure.
In this way, the adverse effect of lightning noise can be eliminated, and a plurality of wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters can be freely arranged. Furthermore, by using a telecommunication cable for a part of the transmission path, it is possible to improve communication speed and perform stable communication that is not easily affected by electromagnetic noise from other devices.

To achieve the above object, Ex wireless communication means of the present invention, via an electrical communication cable, connected scan Itchinguhabu and described above, performs the wireless LAN access point and a wireless communication installed in a non-hazardous area The wireless LAN access point installed in the dangerous area, the antenna connected to the wireless LAN access point installed in the dangerous area, and a radio wave transmitting material that transmits radio waves transmitted and received by the antenna is used at least in part. And it is set as the structure provided with the airtight container which accommodated the wireless LAN access point and antenna installed in the said dangerous area, and was made into the explosion-proof structure.
In this way, it is possible to perform bridge communication between the wireless LAN access point installed in the non-hazardous area and the wireless LAN access point installed in the hazardous area by using the wireless LAN, and without laying a cable. As a result, installation costs can be reduced.

To achieve the above object, Ex wireless communication means with a switching hub of the present invention, a switching hub connected to the telecommunications cables wireless LAN Ex repeater described above, is connected to said telecommunications cable A protective device for preventing lightning surges, a wireless LAN access point installed in a dangerous area that is connected to the switching hub and wirelessly communicates with a wireless LAN access point installed in a non-hazardous area, and in this dangerous area An antenna connected to the installed wireless LAN access point, the switching hub, the protector, the wireless LAN access point installed in the hazardous area and the antenna are housed, and a sealed container having a flameproof structure is provided. .
In this way, the adverse effect of lightning noise can be eliminated, and a plurality of wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters can be freely arranged. Furthermore, by using a telecommunication cable for a part of the transmission path, it is possible to improve communication speed and perform stable communication that is not easily affected by electromagnetic noise from other devices. In addition, since wireless LAN can perform bridge communication between a wireless LAN access point installed in a non-hazardous area and a wireless LAN access point installed in a hazardous area, it is not necessary to install a cable. The installation cost can be reduced.

In order to achieve the above object, a communication system in a hazardous area according to the present invention is connected to a transceiver in the dangerous area, a wireless LAN access point that communicates with the transceiver by a wireless LAN, and the wireless LAN access point. An antenna, a telecommunication cable connected to the wireless LAN access point, a radio wave transmitting material that transmits radio waves transmitted and received by the antenna at least partially, and the wireless LAN access point and the antenna A wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater installed in the hazardous area, a switching hub connected to an electric communication cable of the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater; A lightning surge protective device connected to a communication cable, the switching hub and the protective device. It is equipped with an airtight container with a pressure- and explosion-proof structure, and is connected to the switching hub via an explosion-proof switching hub installed in the hazardous area and a telecommunication cable, and installed in a non-hazardous area. A wireless LAN access point installed in the dangerous area that performs wireless communication with a wireless LAN access point, an antenna connected to the wireless LAN access point installed in the dangerous area, and at least a part of the antenna transmits and receives Explosion-proof type using a radio wave transmitting material that transmits radio waves, including a hermetic container with a pressure-proof explosion-proof structure that houses a wireless LAN access point and an antenna installed in the dangerous area A wireless communication means, a wireless LAN server installed in a non-hazardous area, connected to the wireless LAN server, The line LAN, communication between the wireless LAN access point Ex wireless communication means installed in said danger area, it is constituted that a radio LAN access point installed in the non-hazardous area.
In this way, a large amount of data can be communicated safely and efficiently by using the wireless LAN. In addition, by using a telecommunication cable instead of an optical cable, the size and weight can be reduced, and the manufacturing cost and the installation cost can be reduced. Furthermore, the adverse effects of lightning noise can be eliminated, and a plurality of wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters can be arranged freely. Further, by using a telecommunication cable for a part of the transmission path, it is possible to improve communication speed and perform stable communication that is not easily affected by electromagnetic noise from other devices. Furthermore, bridge communication can be performed between the wireless LAN access point installed in the non-hazardous area and the wireless LAN access point installed in the hazardous area by the wireless LAN. As a result, installation costs can be reduced.

In order to achieve the above object, a communication system in a hazardous area according to the present invention is connected to a transceiver in the dangerous area, a wireless LAN access point that communicates with the transceiver by a wireless LAN, and the wireless LAN access point. An antenna, a telecommunication cable connected to the wireless LAN access point, a radio wave transmitting material that transmits radio waves transmitted and received by the antenna at least partially, and the wireless LAN access point and the antenna A wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater installed in the hazardous area, a switching hub connected to an electric communication cable of the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater; A lightning surge protector connected to a communication cable and connected to the switching hub Wireless communication with a wireless LAN access point installed in a non-hazardous area, a wireless LAN access point installed in a dangerous area, an antenna connected to the wireless LAN access point, the switching hub, the protector, A switching hub with explosion-proof wireless communication means installed in the hazardous area and a non-dangerous area switching hub equipped with a hermetic container with explosion-proof construction that accommodates wireless LAN access points and antennas installed in the dangerous area Installed in the non-hazardous area where the wireless LAN server is connected to the wireless LAN server and communicates with the wireless LAN access point of the switching hub with the explosion-proof wireless communication means installed in the dangerous area via the wireless LAN. The wireless LAN access point is provided.
Even in this case, a large amount of data can be communicated safely and efficiently by using a wireless LAN, and miniaturization and weight reduction can be achieved by using a telecommunication cable. The manufacturing cost and the installation cost can be reduced. Furthermore, it is possible to eliminate the adverse effects of lightning noise, improve communication speed, and perform stable communication that is not easily affected by electromagnetic noise from other devices. In addition, it is possible to perform bridge communication between a wireless LAN access point installed in a non-hazardous area and a wireless LAN access point installed in a hazardous area by using a wireless LAN, thereby reducing the installation cost. it can.

As described above, according to the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater, the explosion-proof switching hub, the explosion-proof wireless communication means, the switching hub with the explosion-proof wireless communication means and the communication system in the hazardous area according to the present invention, the manufacture and handling of dangerous goods In a large risk area such as a refinery or petrochemical factory, a large amount of data related to the operation data of the manufacturing equipment is transmitted via wireless LAN between the manufacturing equipment in the dangerous area and the management equipment in the non-hazardous area. Thus, communication can be performed safely and efficiently, the plant can be operated safely and efficiently at a higher level, and the safety of the plant during a disaster can be further improved.
Furthermore, the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater can be reduced in size and weight, and the manufacturing cost and installation cost can be reduced. In addition, the adverse effects of lightning noise can be eliminated, and a plurality of wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters can be freely arranged. Furthermore, by using a telecommunication cable for a part of the transmission path, it is possible to improve communication speed and perform stable communication that is not easily affected by electromagnetic noise from other devices. In addition, it is possible to perform bridge communication between a wireless LAN access point installed in a non-hazardous area and a wireless LAN access point installed in a dangerous area by using a wireless LAN. As a result, installation costs can be reduced.

[Wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater]
FIG. 1 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater according to an embodiment of the present invention.
In the figure, the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 includes a wireless LAN access point 11, a power supply unit 12, a cardioid antenna 13, and a sealed container 14, and a telecommunication cable 15 and a power cable 16 are externally provided. It is connected.

(Wireless LAN access point)
The wireless LAN access point 11 is a radio wave repeater that connects a transceiver (not shown) via a wireless LAN (local area network), and generally has a function of connecting to a wired LAN. ing. The wireless LAN access point 11 is attached in a state of being housed in the base 143 of the sealed container 14 via a holding member 111 composed of a support column and a mounting plate. Further, the wireless LAN access point 11 is connected to a telecommunication cable 15 and is connected to a cardioid antenna 13.

An identifier called ESSID (Extended Service Set Identifier) is normally assigned to the wireless LAN access point 11 and a transceiver (for example, a computer with a wireless LAN adapter attached or a PDA (personal information terminal) having a transmission / reception function). The wireless LAN access point 11 relays only communication with a transceiver having the same ESSID as itself. Thereby, even in an environment where a plurality of transceivers are mixed in the same area, it is possible to prevent interference and useless communication.
The wireless LAN access point 11 normally relays communication with a plurality of transceivers, but may relay communication with one transceiver.

(Power supply unit)
The power supply unit 12 is an AC adapter, to which a power cable 16 is connected and to the wireless LAN access point 11. The power supply unit 12 receives an AC 100 V current from the outside via the power cable 16, converts it into a low-voltage DC current, and supplies this DC current to the wireless LAN access point 11. If it does in this way, generally used AC power supply (for example, AC 100V power supply) can be used, and even when there is no DC power supply outside, it can be easily installed, and the cost of installation can be reduced. You can plan.
Note that the power supply unit 12 is not limited to an AC adapter, and for example, a stabilized power supply that automatically switches to a battery in the event of a power failure may be used.

(Cardioid antenna)
The cardioid antenna 13 is connected to the wireless LAN access point 11. When an electric signal is input from the wireless LAN access point 11, the cardioid antenna 13 transmits a radio wave corresponding to the electric signal, and when receiving the radio wave, the cardioid antenna 13 transmits the electric signal corresponding to the received radio wave to the wireless LAN access. Output to point 11. The cardioid antenna 13 of the present embodiment is configured to receive and transmit radio waves, but may be configured to perform either reception or transmission.
In general, the cardioid antenna 13 is molded by a resin that transmits radio waves and is fixed to the support plate 148.

The cardioid antenna 13 has a cardioid direction directivity, covers an area spreading in the cardioid type, receives radio waves from the covered area direction, and emits radio waves toward the covered area. To send. Accordingly, the cardioid antenna 13 is attached in a direction in which a plurality of transceivers can be covered. The transceiver is usually carried or installed by an operator in a hazardous area.
The cardioid antenna 13 is smaller than other types of antennas (for example, a planar antenna that covers substantially the same range). As a result, the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 can be reduced in size and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. Furthermore, it is possible to reduce the size of the cylindrical portion 141 of the sealed container 14, and by reducing the size of the cylindrical portion 141 having a mechanical strength lower than that of metal, there is a risk that the cylindrical portion 141 is damaged in the event of a disaster. It can be reduced and safety can be improved.
In the present embodiment, two cardioid antennas 13 are provided, and an area twice as large as that in the case of providing one cardioid antenna 13 can be covered. Further, by arranging three or more cardioid antennas 13 in a polygonal shape, it is possible to cover an area in almost the entire circumference, that is, communication in a wide-angle area is possible.

(Sealed container)
The sealed container 14 includes a cylindrical portion 141 that stores the cardioid antenna 13, a base portion 143 that stores the wireless LAN access point 11 and the power supply unit 12, and a flange portion that is fixed to the base portion 143 in a state where the cylindrical portion 141 is sealed. 142. Further, the sealed container 14 of the present embodiment has a pressure-proof explosion-proof structure including an O-ring 145 and a gasket 146 as a sealing member (seal member).

The cylindrical portion 141 has a substantially cylindrical shape having an upper plate and an open lower end, and an annular flange 141a is formed at the lower end portion. As the material of the cylindrical portion 141, a radio wave transmitting material that transmits radio waves transmitted and received by the cardioid antenna 13, for example, pressure-resistant glass or resin is used. In the present embodiment, heat-resistant tempered glass is used.
The cylindrical portion 141 has a disk-shaped support plate 148 inserted in the lower portion thereof, and the cardioid antenna 13 is attached to the support plate 148. The support plate 148 is formed with a cable hole for passing a cable connecting the cardioid antenna 13 and the wireless LAN access point 11.
Note that the support plate 148 is not limited to the above structure, and for example, a structure in which an opening for visually confirming the state of the wireless LAN access point 11 or the like may be formed. Further, as a material for the support plate 148, a resin is generally used.

The base 143 is a substantially bottomed cylindrical metal container having an annular flange 143 a formed at the upper end, and houses the wireless LAN access point 11 and the power supply unit 12. In addition, the base 143 is provided with a sealing means (not shown) for inserting the telecommunication cable 15 and the power cable 16 on the lower surface and blocking the outside from the inside of the base 143. In general, a cable packing made of cylindrical rubber is used as the sealing means. In this way, the inside of the base portion 143 is in a state of being sealed with respect to the outside. For example, even if a spark is generated inside the wireless LAN access point 11, the spark does not jump out of the sealed container 14. It can be.
The flange portion 143a is internally threaded for screwing the flange portion 142, and the upper surface is finished to have a surface roughness that functions as a seal surface of the O-ring 145.

  The flange portion 142 is a metal disk having an opening into which the cylindrical portion 141 is inserted, and a bolt hole into which the bolt 144 is inserted is formed at a position corresponding to the female screw. In addition, an O-ring groove in which the O-ring 145 is accommodated is formed on the lower surface, and an annular notch into which the flange 141a of the cylindrical portion 141 and the gasket holder 147 are fitted is formed. That is, the flange 141a is inserted into the upper cutout, and the gasket holder 147 is inserted into the lower cutout.

The gasket holder 147 is a metal disk having a wall protruding from the entire periphery of the peripheral edge, and a circular gasket 146 is placed thereon. In this way, the gasket 146 has the upper surface of the peripheral portion in contact with the lower surface of the flange portion 141 a of the cylindrical portion 141 and the stepped surface of the notch below the flange portion 142, and the lower surface of the peripheral portion is the upper surface of the gasket holder 147. To seal between the internal space of the cylinder part 141 and the base part 143 and the outside. The O-ring 145 seals the gap between the flange portion 142 and the flange portion 143a of the base portion 143.
Note that a cable hole for passing a cable connecting the cardioid antenna 13 and the wireless LAN access point 11 is formed in the approximate center of the gasket holder 147 and the gasket 146. In this embodiment, the O-ring 145 and the gasket 146 are used for sealing. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, a liquid sealing agent or an adhesive may be used for sealing. Good.

According to the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 configured as described above, a large amount of data can be communicated safely and efficiently by using the wireless LAN. In addition, the use of the telecommunication cable eliminates the need to provide an optical / electrical converter, so that the size and weight can be reduced, and the manufacturing cost and the installation cost can be reduced. Furthermore, the sealed container 14 having the above-described configuration can improve the mechanical strength of the cylindrical portion 141 and can freely set the orientation of the cardioid antenna 13.
In addition, the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 is preferably connected to an explosion-proof switching hub 2 described later by a telecommunication cable 15. In this way, a plurality of wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1 can be arranged around the explosion-proof switching hub 2 at low cost, and the communicable area can be efficiently expanded.

[Explosion-proof switching hub]
FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an explosion-proof switching hub according to an embodiment of the present invention.
In the figure, the explosion-proof switching hub 2 includes a switching hub 24, a protector 25, and a sealed container 23 for storing them.

(Switching hub)
The switching hub 24 includes a power cable 28, one or more of the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 telecommunications cable 15, and external devices (usually explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 and other explosion-proof switching hub 2. Or the like) is connected.
Further, the explosion-proof switching hub 2 of the present embodiment has a signal amplification function, and the relay distance by the telecommunication cables 15 and 27 can be about 100 m at the maximum. Therefore, when the relay distance is long, the explosion-proof switching hub 2 can be connected to the remote wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 by connecting the explosion-proof switching hub 2 between the telecommunication cables 15 and 27 as much as necessary. .

(Protector)
The protector 25 is connected to the telecommunications cable 15 or the telecommunications cable 27 in the sealed container 23, and is also connected to the switching hub 24. The protector 25 has a built-in lightning protection element such as a ceramic arrester or SP diode, and protects electronic devices that are vulnerable to lightning surges.

(Sealed container)
The hermetic container 23 has a rectangular box shape composed of a metal upper lid 21 and a box portion 22, and has a pressure / explosion-proof structure sealed so that sparks generated inside the container do not leak to the outside. The upper lid 21 is attached in a state where the pressure-resistant glass 212 is sealed from the inside, and through holes into which the bolts 211 are inserted at substantially equal intervals are formed in the peripheral portion. The box portion 22 is formed with a rectangular annular flange portion having a female screw cut at a position corresponding to the bolt 211 at the upper portion, and a plurality of cable joints 26 projecting from the side surface. The cable joint 26 is sealed with a cable inserted by a sealing means such as cable packing. Moreover, although not shown in figure, the upper cover 21 and the box part 22 are sealed by sealing members, such as an O-ring.

  According to the explosion-proof switching hub 2 configured as described above, it is possible to eliminate the adverse effects of lightning noise, and it is possible to freely arrange a plurality of wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1. Furthermore, by using the telecommunication cables 15 and 27 in a part of the transmission path, it is possible to improve communication speed and perform stable communication that is not easily affected by electromagnetic noise from other devices.

[Explosion-proof wireless communication means]
FIG. 3 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of the explosion-proof wireless communication means according to one embodiment of the present invention.
In the figure, the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 includes an antenna 33 and a telecommunication cable 27 instead of the cardioid antenna 13 and the wireless LAN access point 11 as compared with the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1. The wireless LAN access point 31 connected to the explosion-proof switching hub 2 is provided.
Therefore, in FIG. 3, the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

The wireless LAN access point 31 is usually installed in a dangerous area, and is configured to perform wireless communication with the wireless LAN access point 51 installed in a non-hazardous area.
Moreover, although the antenna 33 of this embodiment is a planar antenna, it is not limited to this.
Other configurations are almost the same as those of the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1.

  According to the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 having the above-described configuration, bridge communication is performed between the wireless LAN access point 51 installed in the non-hazardous area and the wireless LAN access point 31 installed in the dangerous area by wireless LAN. This eliminates the need for laying cables, so that the installation cost can be reduced.

[Switching hub with explosion-proof wireless communication means]
FIG. 4: has shown schematic sectional drawing of the switching hub with an explosion-proof type radio | wireless communication means which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention.
In the figure, the switching hub 4 with explosion-proof wireless communication means is different from the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 in that the antenna 43, the wireless LAN access point 31 and the sealed container 14 are replaced with an antenna 43, a switching hub 24 and the like. The wireless LAN access point 41 and the sealed container 44 to be connected are provided, and the switching hub 24 and the protector 25 are housed in the sealed container 44.
Therefore, in FIG. 4, the same components as those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

The wireless LAN access point 41 is usually installed in a dangerous area, and is configured to perform wireless communication with the wireless LAN access point 51 installed in a non-hazardous area. The wireless LAN access point 41 is connected to the switching hub 24 housed in the sealed container 44.
The switching hub 24 is connected to the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 and the explosion-proof switching hub 2 via a protector 25 and telecommunications cables 15 and 27. In the present embodiment, one wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 and one explosion-proof switching hub 2 are connected. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, one or more wireless LAN explosion-proof relays are used. It is good also as a structure connected with the type | mold repeater 1 and / or one or two or more explosion-proof type switching hubs 2. FIG.

The hermetic container 44 is larger in diameter than the hermetic container 14 in order to accommodate the switching hub 24 and the protector 25, and has a base portion 443 projecting from a plurality of cable joints 26. ing.
Moreover, although the antenna 43 of this embodiment is a planar antenna, it is not limited to this.
Other configurations are almost the same as those of the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3.

  According to the switching hub 4 with explosion-proof wireless communication means configured as described above, the adverse effects of lightning noise can be eliminated, and a plurality of wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1 and explosion-proof switching hubs 2 can be freely arranged. it can. Furthermore, by using a telecommunication cable for a part of the transmission path, it is possible to improve communication speed and perform stable communication that is not easily affected by electromagnetic noise from other devices. In addition, it is possible to perform bridge communication between the wireless LAN access point 51 installed in the non-hazardous area and the wireless LAN access point 41 installed in the hazardous area by the wireless LAN, without laying a cable. Therefore, the installation cost can be reduced.

[First embodiment of communication system in danger area]
FIG. 5: has shown the schematic block diagram for demonstrating 1st embodiment of the communication system in the danger zone of this invention.
In the figure, a communication system 10 in a hazardous area includes a transmitter / receiver (not shown) provided in a plurality of terminals, a plurality of wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1, an explosion-proof switching hub 2 and the like described above. Explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 is installed. The transceiver and the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 communicate by wireless LAN.

The wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1, the explosion-proof switching hub 2 and the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 can be variously combined depending on the arrangement state of the transmitter / receiver in the hazardous area.
In the present embodiment, three combinations are used. In the first combination, the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 and the explosion-proof switching hub 2 are connected via a telecommunication cable 27, and the explosion-proof switching hub 2 is The two wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1 are connected via a telecommunication cable 15. In the second combination, the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 and the explosion-proof switching hub 2 are connected via a telecommunication cable 27, and the explosion-proof switching hub 2 is connected to a single one via the telecommunication cable 15. It is connected to the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 and further connected to the second explosion-proof switching hub 2 via the telecommunication cable 27, and the second explosion-proof switching hub 2 is connected via the telecommunication cable 15. Are connected to two wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1. Further, in the third combination, the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 and the explosion-proof switching hub 2 are connected via a telecommunication cable 27, and this explosion-proof switching hub 2 is connected to one of the telecommunication cables 15. It is connected to the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1, and further connected to the second and third explosion-proof switching hubs 2 via a telecommunication cable 27. The second explosion-proof switching hub 2 is connected to the telecommunication cable. 15 is connected to two wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1, and the third explosion-proof switching hub 2 is connected to one wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 via a telecommunication cable 15.

The measurement room 50 in the non-hazardous area is provided with a local area network (LAN), and at least the wireless LAN server 5 and the wireless LAN access point 51 are connected to the hub 52 via the cable 53. . Although not shown, examples of devices constituting the LAN include a navigator server and a mobile DOS server in addition to the above.
The wireless LAN access point 51 installed in the non-hazardous area communicates by wireless LAN with the wireless LAN access point 31 of the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 installed in the dangerous area.

  According to the communication system 10 in the hazardous area having the above configuration, a large amount of data can be communicated safely and efficiently by using the wireless LAN. Further, by using the telecommunication cables 15 and 27 instead of the optical cable, the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1, the explosion-proof switching hub 2, the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3, and the like can be reduced in size and weight. It is possible to reduce the manufacturing cost and the installation cost. Furthermore, the adverse effect of lightning noise can be eliminated, and a plurality of wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1 can be freely arranged. Further, by using a telecommunication cable for a part of the transmission path, it is possible to improve communication speed and perform stable communication that is not easily affected by electromagnetic noise from other devices. Further, the wireless LAN can perform bridge communication between the wireless LAN access point 51 installed in the non-hazardous area and the wireless LAN access point 31 installed in the dangerous area. Since it is not necessary, the installation cost can be reduced.

[Second Embodiment of Communication System in Dangerous Area]
FIG. 6: has shown the schematic block diagram for demonstrating 2nd embodiment of the communication system in the danger zone of this invention.
In the figure, the communication system 10a in the hazardous area is different from the first embodiment in that a switching hub 4 with explosion-proof wireless communication means is used instead of the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3. That is, the communication system 10a in the hazardous area includes a transmitter / receiver (not shown) provided in a plurality of terminals, a plurality of the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1, the explosion-proof switching hub 2 and the explosion-proof type described above. A switching hub 4 with wireless communication means is installed.
Therefore, in FIG. 6, the same components as those in FIG. 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

The wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1, the explosion-proof switching hub 2 and the switching hub 4 with explosion-proof wireless communication means can be variously combined depending on the arrangement state of the transceivers in the hazardous area.
In the present embodiment, three combinations are used. In the first combination, the switching hub 4 with explosion-proof wireless communication means is connected to the two wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1 via the telecommunication cable 15. ing. In the second combination, the switching hub 4 with explosion-proof wireless communication means is connected to the explosion-proof switching hub 2 via the telecommunication cable 27, and the explosion-proof switching hub 2 connects the telecommunication cable 15. Is connected to one wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1, and is further connected to a second explosion-proof switching hub 2 via a telecommunication cable 27. The second explosion-proof switching hub 2 is used for telecommunication. Two wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1 are connected via a cable 15. Further, in the third combination, the switching hub 4 with explosion-proof wireless communication means is connected to one wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 via a telecommunication cable 15, and further via a telecommunication cable 27. The second and third explosion-proof switching hubs 2 are connected, and the second explosion-proof switching hub 2 is connected to the two wireless LAN explosion-proof repeaters 1 via the telecommunication cable 15, and the third explosion-proof switching hub 2. A type switching hub 2 is connected to one wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1 via a telecommunication cable 15.
The wireless LAN access point 51 installed in the non-hazardous area communicates by wireless LAN with the wireless LAN access point 41 of the switching hub 4 with explosion-proof wireless communication means installed in the dangerous area.

  According to the communication system 10a in the hazardous area having the above-described configuration, substantially the same effect as the communication system 10 in the dangerous area can be exhibited, and a large amount of data can be communicated safely and efficiently by using the wireless LAN. Further, by using the telecommunication cables 15 and 27 instead of the optical cable, the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 1, the explosion-proof switching hub 2, the switching hub 4 with explosion-proof wireless communication means, and the like can be reduced in size and weight. Therefore, the manufacturing cost and the installation cost can be reduced.

Further, the communication systems 10 and 10a have a plurality of manufacturing facility operation data, facility management history data, on-site operation drawing information, monitoring image information, sound, and the like when the dangerous area is a refinery or a petrochemical plant. Since a large amount of data such as information can be closely communicated between the dangerous area and the non-dangerous area, the plant can be managed accurately based on these data. Therefore, the plant can be operated safely and efficiently at a higher level, and the safety of the plant in the event of a disaster can be further improved.
Also, in field operations and equipment maintenance management operations in hazardous areas, a large amount of data (information) can be easily communicated between measurement rooms and offices (non-hazardous areas) and the field (hazardous areas). Therefore, the work efficiency of these operations can be greatly improved.

As described above, the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater, the explosion-proof switching hub, the explosion-proof wireless communication means, the switching hub with the explosion-proof wireless communication means, and the communication system in the hazardous area according to the present invention have been described with reference to preferred embodiments. The wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater according to the invention, the explosion-proof switching hub, the explosion-proof wireless communication means, the switching hub with the explosion-proof wireless communication means and the communication system in the hazardous area are not limited to the above-described embodiments, It goes without saying that various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention.
For example, the communication system 10 in the hazardous area uses the explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 and the communication system 10a in the dangerous area uses the switching hub 4 with the explosion-proof wireless communication means, but is not limited thereto. is not. For example, explosion-proof wireless communication means 3 and switching hub 4 with explosion-proof wireless communication means may be used.

  As described above, the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater, the explosion-proof switching hub, the explosion-proof wireless communication means, the switching hub with the explosion-proof wireless communication means, and the communication system in the hazardous area of the present invention are refineries, petrochemical factories, etc. For example, the present invention can be effectively applied to the entire equipment industry that requires explosion-proof equipment.

1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an explosion-proof switching hub according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of an explosion-proof wireless communication means according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 shows a schematic cross-sectional view of a switching hub with explosion-proof wireless communication means according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 shows a schematic block diagram for explaining a first embodiment of a communication system in a danger zone of the present invention. FIG. The schematic block diagram for demonstrating 2nd embodiment of the communication system in the danger zone of this invention is shown.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater 2 Explosion-proof switching hub 3 Explosion-proof wireless communication means 4 Switching hub with explosion-proof wireless communication means 5 Wireless LAN server 10, 10a Communication system 11 in a dangerous area Wireless LAN access point 12 Power supply unit 13 Cardioid Type antenna 14 Sealed container 15 Telecommunication cable 21 Upper lid 22 Box part 23 Sealed container 24 Switching hub 25 Guard 26 Cable joint 27 Telecommunication cable 28 Power cable 31 Wireless LAN access point 33 Antenna 41 Wireless LAN access point 43 Antenna 44 Sealed container 50 Measurement room 51 Wireless LAN access point 52 Hub 53 Cable 111 Holding member 141 Tube portion 141a ridge portion 142 flange portion 143 base portion 143a ridge portion 144 bolt 145 O Ring 146 Gasket 147 gasket holder 148 supporting plate 211 volts 212 pressure glass 443 base

Claims (8)

Wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater installed in refineries and petrochemical plants,
A wireless LAN access point that communicates with a transceiver via a wireless LAN;
One or more antennas connected to the wireless LAN access point;
A telecommunication cable connected to the wireless LAN access point;
At least a portion, using a radio wave transmissive material that transmits radio waves the antenna is to transmit and receive, and the housing a wireless LAN access point and the antenna, e Bei a closed container a flameproof,
The sealed container is
One end is shielded and the other end is open, made of the radio wave transmitting material, and a cylindrical portion for housing the antenna;
A base that is connected to the other end of the tube and houses the wireless LAN access point and the power supply unit;
A flange portion that is fixed to the base portion in a state where the tube portion is sealed.
Have
A wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater , wherein a support plate is inserted in a lower portion of the cylindrical portion, and the cylindrical portion is fixed to the base portion in a sealed state by a gasket and a gasket holder .   The wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater according to claim 1, wherein the antenna is a cardioid antenna. The wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater according to claim 1 or 2 , wherein the telecommunication cable is connected to an explosion-proof switching hub. Explosion-proof switching hubs installed in refineries and petrochemical plants,
A switching hub connected to the telecommunications cable of the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater according to any one of claims 1 to 3 ;
A lightning surge protector connected to the telecommunications cable;
An explosion-proof switching hub comprising a sealed container that houses the switching hub and the protector and has a pressure-proof explosion-proof structure. Explosion-proof wireless communication means installed in hazardous areas of refineries and petrochemical plants,
A wireless LAN access point installed in the hazardous area, connected to the switching hub described in claim 4 via a telecommunication cable, and performing wireless communication with the wireless LAN access point installed in the non-hazardous area; ,
An antenna connected to a wireless LAN access point installed in this dangerous area;
At least a portion, using a radio wave transmissive material that transmits radio waves the antenna is to transmit and receive, and the housing the installed wireless LAN access point and the antenna in danger area, e Bei the closed container was Flameproof ,
The sealed container is
One end is shielded and the other end is open, made of the radio wave transmitting material, and a cylindrical portion for housing the antenna;
A base that is connected to the other end of the tube and houses the wireless LAN access point and the power supply unit;
A flange portion that is fixed to the base portion in a state where the tube portion is sealed.
Have
An explosion-proof wireless communication means , wherein a support plate is inserted in a lower portion of the cylindrical portion, and the cylindrical portion is fixed to the base portion in a state of being sealed by a gasket and a gasket holder . A switching hub with explosion-proof wireless communication means installed in a hazardous area of a refinery or petrochemical factory,
A switching hub connected to the telecommunications cable of the wireless LAN explosion-proof repeater according to any one of claims 1 to 3 ;
A lightning surge protector connected to the telecommunications cable;
A wireless LAN access point installed in a dangerous area, connected to the switching hub and performing wireless communication with a wireless LAN access point installed in a non-hazardous area;
An antenna connected to a wireless LAN access point installed in this dangerous area;
It said switching hub, the protector, housing a wireless LAN access point and an antenna that is installed in a hazardous area, e Bei a closed container a flameproof,
The sealed container is
One end is shielded and the other end is open, made of the radio wave transmitting material, and a cylindrical portion for housing the antenna;
A base that is connected to the other end of the tube and houses the wireless LAN access point, switching hub , protector, and power supply unit;
A flange portion that is fixed to the base portion in a state where the tube portion is sealed.
Have
A switching hub with explosion-proof wireless communication means , wherein a support plate is inserted in a lower part of the cylinder part, and the cylinder part is fixed to the base part in a state of being sealed by a gasket and a gasket holder . Transmitters and receivers in hazardous areas of refineries and petrochemical plants ,
Placed in front Symbol dangerous area, and a wireless LAN Ex repeater as claimed in any one of the claims 1 to 3,
Placed in front Symbol danger area, the explosion-proof switching hub described in the above claim 4,
Placed in front Symbol dangerous area, and explosion-proof wireless communication means described in the above claim 5,
A wireless LAN server installed in a non-hazardous area;
A wireless LAN access point installed in the non-hazardous area connected to the wireless LAN server and communicating with the wireless LAN access point of the explosion-proof wireless communication means installed in the dangerous area via a wireless LAN; A communication system in a hazardous area characterized by comprising. Transmitters and receivers in hazardous areas of refineries and petrochemical plants ,
Placed in front Symbol dangerous area, and a wireless LAN Ex repeater as claimed in any one of the claims 1 to 3,
Placed in front Symbol danger area, a switching hub with explosion-proof wireless communication means described in the above claim 6,
A wireless LAN server installed in a non-hazardous area;
Wireless LAN access installed in the non-hazardous area connected to the wireless LAN server and communicated with the wireless LAN access point of the switching hub with explosion-proof wireless communication means installed in the dangerous area via the wireless LAN A communication system in a hazardous area, characterized by comprising:

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