Management device for a vacuum evaporation water generator

Abstract

The management device (100) of the present invention is a management device that manages a vacuum evaporation water production device (1) that produces fresh water from seawater, characterized by: an operation state acquisition section (110) that acquires information about an operation state of the vacuum evaporation water production device (1); and an abnormality detection section (120) that detects an abnormality of the vacuum evaporation water production device (1) based on the aforementioned information acquired by the operation state acquisition section (110).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a management device, management method, and management procedure for managing a vacuum evaporation water production device that produces fresh water from seawater. Background Technology

[0002] In the past, vacuum evaporation water production devices have been used in ships operating at sea to produce fresh water by evaporating seawater extracted from the ocean under high vacuum. Vacuum evaporation water production devices are widely used in types that utilize steam from ship-mounted boilers or diesel engines, or other waste heat sources (e.g., Patent Document 1). Such vacuum evaporation water production devices generally consist of a heater that heats and evaporates the supplied raw seawater by exchanging heat with warm water used for cooling diesel engines, etc.; and a sealed container body that maintains the interior under reduced pressure (vacuum) conditions through a pressure-reducing mechanism and condenses the generated steam to produce fresh water. Within the container body, a condenser with multiple heat transfer tubes is built-in. Steam is cooled and condensed by exchanging heat with cooling seawater flowing inside the heat transfer tubes, thereby producing fresh water. Furthermore, a portion of the cooling seawater discharged from the condenser is supplied to the heater as raw seawater.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Utility Model Registration No. Sho 62-43692 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] Currently, the operation and adjustment of vacuum evaporative water generators are carried out by the ship's crew, and troubleshooting is similarly handled by the crew based on the user manual. However, in recent years, due to cost-saving measures in the engine room or a decline in crew skill levels, they are unable to solve problems independently and frequently seek help from external personnel (e.g., the equipment manufacturer's support staff) for simple questions.

[0008] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its purpose is to support the solution of problems concerning vacuum evaporation water production devices.

[0009] Solution for solving the problem

[0010] The aforementioned objective of the present invention is achieved by the management device of the present invention. The aforementioned management device is a management device for a vacuum evaporation water production device that produces fresh water from seawater, characterized by: an operation status acquisition unit that acquires information about the operation status of the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device; and an anomaly detection unit that detects an anomaly of the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device based on the information acquired by the aforementioned operation status acquisition unit.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device is further provided with a control unit, which controls the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device to resolve the aforementioned abnormality when the aforementioned abnormality is detected.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water making device further includes a prompting unit that, when the aforementioned abnormality is detected, prompts the user of the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water making device with a method to resolve the aforementioned abnormality.

[0013] In this implementation plan, the aforementioned anomaly may be due to insufficient freshwater production.

[0014] In this implementation plan, the aforementioned anomaly may be due to excessive salt concentration in the aforementioned freshwater.

[0015] In this implementation plan, the aforementioned anomaly may be scale from the seawater adhering to the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device.

[0016] In this implementation scheme, the aforementioned anomaly may be due to insufficient heating capacity of the aforementioned heater, resulting in insufficient production of the aforementioned fresh water.

[0017] In the above implementation scheme, the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device may include: a heater, which heats the raw seawater and generates steam by cooling the jacket cooling water of the ship's internal combustion engine; and a condenser, which cools the steam generated by the aforementioned heater by cooling seawater and generates fresh water.

[0018] In this implementation scheme, the main cause of the aforementioned abnormality is the insufficient cooling water in the jacket. Preferably, the control unit controls or prompts the user to increase the amount of cooling water in the jacket.

[0019] In this implementation scheme, the main cause of the aforementioned abnormality is that the temperature of the jacket cooling water is lower than the specified value. Preferably, the aforementioned prompting unit prompts the user to raise the temperature to above the specified value.

[0020] In this implementation scheme, the main cause of the aforementioned abnormality is that the aforementioned jacket cooling water causes contamination of the heater, or that the aforementioned heater is covered with scale contained in the aforementioned seawater. The aforementioned prompting part is preferably to prompt the aforementioned user to clean the aforementioned warm water supply line or to perform an operation to inhibit the adhesion of the aforementioned scale.

[0021] In this implementation plan, the aforementioned anomaly may be due to insufficient cooling capacity of the aforementioned condenser, resulting in insufficient production of the aforementioned fresh water.

[0022] In this implementation scheme, the secondary cause of the aforementioned abnormality is an insufficient supply of the aforementioned cooling seawater to the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device. Preferably, the aforementioned control unit controls or prompts the aforementioned user to increase the supply of the aforementioned cooling seawater.

[0023] In this embodiment, the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device is preferably […].

[0024] Further comprising: a condenser having a plurality of heat transfer tubes inside, which cools the steam supplied in the aforementioned condenser and generates fresh water; and

[0025] The main causes of the aforementioned abnormalities are contamination inside the heat transfer tubes, or scale from the seawater adhering to the heat transfer tubes.

[0026] The aforementioned prompt is to remind the aforementioned user to clean the aforementioned heat transfer tube.

[0027] In this implementation scheme, the aforementioned anomaly may be a decrease in the vacuum within the aforementioned condenser.

[0028] In this embodiment, the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device is preferably further equipped with: a recirculating water device having a plurality of heat transfer tubes inside, which cools the steam supplied in the aforementioned condenser and generates fresh water; and a water jetting device that maintains the aforementioned condenser in a vacuum state while supplying cooling seawater to the aforementioned recirculating water device; the main cause of the aforementioned abnormality may be the malfunction of the aforementioned water jetting device.

[0029] In this implementation scheme, the secondary cause of the aforementioned anomaly is that the flow regulating valve for adjusting the flow rate of seawater supplied by the aforementioned water jet is not open enough, resulting in the drive water pressure of the aforementioned water jet not reaching the specified value.

[0030] The aforementioned control unit is preferably used to control the opening degree of the aforementioned flow regulating valve.

[0031] In this implementation scheme, the secondary cause of the aforementioned abnormality is that the pressure in the cooling seawater discharge line used to discharge the aforementioned cooling seawater from the aforementioned refiller to the outside of the ship is higher than a specified value. The aforementioned prompting unit is preferably prompting the aforementioned user to check the blockage of the aforementioned cooling seawater discharge line or the opening degree of the cooling water outlet valve installed on the aforementioned cooling seawater discharge line, or the aforementioned control unit to adjust the opening degree of the aforementioned cooling water outlet valve.

[0032] In this implementation, the secondary cause of the aforementioned abnormality is that the pressure of the cooling seawater supplied from the aforementioned water jet is negative. The aforementioned prompting unit preferably prompts the aforementioned user to turn the cooling water outlet valve, which is installed on the cooling seawater discharge line for discharging the aforementioned cooling seawater from the aforementioned refiller to the outside of the ship, or the aforementioned control unit adjusts the opening degree of the aforementioned cooling water outlet valve.

[0033] In this implementation, the secondary cause of the aforementioned abnormality is corrosion or wear of the nozzle or spray tube of the aforementioned water jet, and the aforementioned prompting part is preferably to prompt the aforementioned user to replace the aforementioned nozzle or the aforementioned spray tube with a brand new one.

[0034] In this implementation scheme, the secondary cause of the aforementioned abnormality is that the brine check valve installed at the brine discharge line of the aforementioned water jetter, which discharges the remaining raw seawater after the aforementioned steam is generated, is in a fixed state. In this case, the aforementioned prompting part is preferably to prompt the aforementioned user to open, inspect or clean the aforementioned brine check valve, or to replace the aforementioned brine check valve with a brand new one.

[0035] In this implementation, the secondary cause of the aforementioned abnormality is that the nozzle of the aforementioned water jet is blocked by foreign objects, and the aforementioned prompting unit is preferably used to prompt the aforementioned user to clean the aforementioned nozzle.

[0036] In this implementation scheme, the secondary cause of the aforementioned anomaly may be the closure of the exhaust line used to transport non-condensable gas from the aforementioned condenser to the aforementioned water jet, or the closure of the vacuum regulating valve installed on the aforementioned exhaust line.

[0037] In this implementation scheme, a further cause of the aforementioned secondary cause is that the check valve is in a fixed state. The aforementioned prompting part is preferably to prompt the aforementioned user to open, inspect or clean the aforementioned check valve, or replace the aforementioned check valve with a brand new one.

[0038] In this implementation scheme, a further cause of the aforementioned secondary cause is that the aforementioned vacuum adjustment valve is not opened sufficiently. Preferably, the aforementioned prompting unit prompts the aforementioned user to adjust the aforementioned vacuum adjustment valve to the opening direction.

[0039] In this implementation scheme, the secondary cause of the aforementioned abnormality is an air leak from the aforementioned condenser. The aforementioned prompting unit preferably prompts the aforementioned user to perform an air test at a specified pressure to find and repair the aforementioned leak.

[0040] In this implementation scheme, if the secondary cause of the aforementioned abnormality is a malfunction of the pressure gauge used to measure the vacuum level of the aforementioned vacuum state, it is preferable to advise the user to replace the aforementioned pressure gauge with a brand new one.

[0041] In this implementation scheme, the aforementioned abnormality is the situation where the excessive amount of fresh water produced results in an excessive salt concentration in the fresh water. Preferably, the control unit controls the amount of fresh water produced to be below the rated amount.

[0042] In this embodiment, the aforementioned vacuum evaporative water production device preferably further comprises: a recirculating water unit having a plurality of heat transfer tubes inside, which cools the steam supplied in the aforementioned condenser and generates fresh water; and a water jetting device that maintains the aforementioned condenser in a vacuum state while supplying cooling seawater to the aforementioned recirculating water unit; in the case where the aforementioned abnormality is caused by the temperature of the aforementioned raw seawater being lower than a specified value, resulting in excessive salt concentration in the aforementioned fresh water, the aforementioned control unit preferably rotates a vacuum regulating valve, which is configured to transport non-condensable gas in the aforementioned condenser to the exhaust line of the aforementioned water jetting device, or to control the opening degree of a vacuum breaking valve used to break the aforementioned vacuum state.

[0043] In this implementation scheme, the aforementioned abnormality is a situation where the salt concentration of the aforementioned freshwater is too high due to changes in the temperature of the jacket cooling water or seawater inlet. The aforementioned prompting unit is preferably to prompt the aforementioned user to reduce the jacket cooling capacity and temporarily operate at a low water production rate, or not to make drastic changes to the operating conditions.

[0044] In this implementation scheme, the aforementioned abnormality is the situation where excessive freshwater production leads to the aforementioned scale buildup. Preferably, the control unit controls the aforementioned water production to be below the rated water production.

[0045] In this implementation scheme, the aforementioned abnormality is the situation where the aforementioned scale buildup occurs due to the lack of cooling when the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device stops operating. Preferably, when the aforementioned operation stops, the control unit controls the system to operate only the cooling water system and cool the aforementioned heater after a specified time following the cessation of the warm water supply.

[0046] In this embodiment, a warm water inlet pipe and a warm water outlet pipe are connected to the aforementioned heater for respectively introducing and discharging the aforementioned jacket cooling water. The aforementioned abnormality is caused by the aforementioned scale buildup due to leakage from the warm water inlet and outlet valves of the aforementioned warm water inlet pipe or the aforementioned warm water outlet pipe. The aforementioned prompting part is preferably used to prompt the aforementioned user to check the opening degree of the aforementioned warm water inlet and outlet valves, perform maintenance or replacement.

[0047] The above-mentioned objective of the present invention is achieved by the management method of the present invention; the aforementioned management method is a management method for a vacuum evaporation water production device that produces fresh water from seawater, characterized in that: the operation status acquisition step is to acquire information about the operation status of the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device; and the anomaly detection step is to detect anomalies of the aforementioned vacuum evaporation water production device based on the aforementioned information acquired in the aforementioned operation status acquisition step.

[0048] The above-mentioned objective of the present invention is achieved through the management program of the present invention; the aforementioned management program is a computer program for managing a vacuum evaporation water production device, which is loaded into a computer and executed to manage the vacuum evaporation water production device for producing fresh water from seawater; after execution, the program includes: an operation status acquisition unit for acquiring information about the operation status of the vacuum evaporation water production device; and an anomaly detection unit for detecting anomalies of the vacuum evaporation water production device based on the information acquired by the operation status acquisition unit.

[0049] Invention Effects

[0050] According to the present invention, it is possible to support the solution of problems concerning vacuum evaporation water production devices. Attached Figure Description

[0051] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a water production system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram of a water-making device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Figure 3 It means Figure 2 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the internal structure of the water-making device.

[0054] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the management device.

[0055] Figure 5 This diagram illustrates the main causes of insufficient water production in the main phenomena that may occur in a water production device, as well as the handling and prompting content of the control unit for each main cause.

[0056] Figure 6This diagram illustrates the main causes of insufficient water production in the main phenomena that may occur in a water production device, as well as the handling and prompting content of the control unit for each main cause.

[0057] Figure 7 This diagram illustrates the main causes of excessive salt concentration in fresh water, which are among the major phenomena that may occur in a water production device, as well as the handling and prompting information provided by the control unit for each main cause.

[0058] Figure 8 This diagram illustrates the main causes of scale buildup among the major phenomena that may occur in a water production device, as well as the handling and prompting information provided by the control unit for each main cause.

[0059] Figure 9 This is a schematic structural diagram of a modified water-making device. Detailed Implementation

[0060] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0061] Figure 1 This is a block diagram of a water production system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The water production system includes a vacuum evaporation water production device (hereinafter referred to as "water production device") 1 and a management device 100 for managing the water production device 1.

[0062] [Composition of the water production system]

[0063] Figure 2 This is a schematic structural diagram of water-making device 1; Figure 3 , is a cross-sectional view showing the internal structure of water-making device 1.

[0064] Water production device 1 includes a heater 2, and a condenser 3 with a steam-water separator 4, a recirculator 5, and a preheater 6. Furthermore, Figure 3 In this diagram, symbol P1 represents a jet pump used to extract seawater from the sea. Jet pump P1 supplies water via seawater pipeline 8 to the water jetter 7 installed in the condenser 3, and then supplies it as cooling water for water production in the water production device 1 to the recharger 5. The water jetter 7 is a pressure-reducing mechanism configured to maintain a reduced pressure (vacuum) state within the condenser 3. The seawater pipeline 8 is equipped with a temperature detector 90 for detecting the seawater temperature, a seawater pressure gauge 64 for measuring the seawater pressure, a filter (strainer) 58 for filtering seawater, and a flow regulating valve 99 for adjusting the seawater flow rate.

[0065] The heater 2 comprises an upper cylindrical tube 20 and a lower cylindrical tube 21 arranged vertically, and a plurality of heating tubes 22 disposed within the upper cylindrical tube 20. The upper cylindrical tube 20 and the lower cylindrical tube 21 are connected and fixed by bolts 27A and nuts 27B. The plurality of heating tubes 22 are arranged to extend vertically within the upper cylindrical tube 20, with both ends fixed to the upper and lower walls of the upper cylindrical tube 20. The lower cylindrical tube 21 is provided with a raw seawater inlet 23, and raw seawater is introduced into the lower cylindrical tube 21 through a raw seawater supply line 24, and raw seawater is introduced into each heating tube 22. On the side wall of the upper cylindrical tube 20, a cylindrical warm water inlet pipe 25 and a warm water outlet pipe 26 are connected vertically. Warm water, such as jacket cooling water used for cooling the diesel engine 70, is introduced into the upper cylindrical tube 20 through a warm water supply line 71 from the warm water inlet pipe 25. The raw seawater introduced into each heating pipe 22 is heated and evaporated into steam through heat exchange with the warm water introduced from the warm water inlet pipe 25 into the upper pipe 20, and then supplied to the condenser 3. The warm water in the upper pipe 20 that has exchanged heat with the raw seawater is transported from the warm water outlet pipe 26 through the warm water outlet line 72 to the jacketed water cooler 73.

[0066] The warm water supply line 71 is equipped with a warm water inlet valve 80 and a three-way valve 81 for flow adjustment; the warm water outlet line 72 is equipped with a warm water outlet valve 82 and a temperature detector 65. The warm water supply line 71 and the warm water outlet line 72 are connected via connecting lines 74 and 75, and a flow adjustment valve 83 is provided on the connecting line 75. The three-way valve 81 for flow adjustment can adjust the flow rates of both the warm water supply line 71 and the connecting line 74. In addition, the warm water supply line 71 is equipped with a flow meter 91 for detecting the flow rate of the warm water and a temperature detector 92 for detecting the temperature of the warm water.

[0067] The condenser 3 is a cylindrical sleeve 30 with an upper tube 20 and a lower tube 21 having a diameter larger than that of the heater 2. The upper tube 20 of the heater 2 is connected and fixed to the lower end of the sleeve 30 by bolts 28A and nuts 28B. In this way, the heater 2 is detachably supported while suspended from the condenser 3. The inside of the sleeve 30 is a steam passage through which steam supplied from the heater 2 flows. At the upper part of the sleeve 30, a cylindrical horizontal tube 31 forming the outer shell of the condenser 5 and the preheater 6 is configured to pass through the sleeve 30. At both ends of the horizontal tube 31, a first manifold 32 and a second manifold 33 are respectively connected.

[0068] At the lower part of the sleeve 30, there is a steam-water separation mechanism 4 for capturing liquid droplets from steam. In this embodiment, the steam-water separation mechanism 4 is composed of a steam-water separation plate 40 and a multi-layered sieve separator 41 with a fine mesh formed by fine wires. An opening 34 for introducing steam into the horizontal tube 31 is formed at the upper center of the horizontal tube 31 inside the sleeve 30. Inside the steam-water separation mechanism 4, there is a pressure gauge 68 for measuring steam pressure, a steam thermometer 94 for measuring steam temperature, and a water level sensor 98 for measuring brine level. Furthermore, an air intake 49 is provided on the side of the steam-water separation mechanism 4, and the air intake 49 is connected to a vacuum breaking valve 59 for breaking the vacuum state.

[0069] The recirculating water unit 5 is used to cool the steam supplied to the condenser 3 and generate fresh water, and has a plurality of heat transfer tubes 50 inside. Each heat transfer tube 50 is arranged horizontally, and its two ends are fixed to the left and right walls of the horizontal tube 31, and communicate with the interior of the first and second manifolds 32 and 33. Above the heat transfer tubes 50 constituting the recirculating water unit 5, a plurality of heat transfer tubes 60 constituting the preheater 6 are provided. This plurality of heat transfer tubes 60 is also arranged horizontally, and its two ends are fixed to the left and right walls of the horizontal tube 31, and communicate with the interior of the first and second manifolds 32 and 33.

[0070] Within the first and second manifolds 32 and 33, the upper preheating manifold chambers 32B and 33B and the lower condensing manifold chambers 32A and 33A are respectively divided by partition plates 35 and 36. The condensing manifold 32A of the first manifold 32 is provided with a cooling water inlet 37 for introducing cooling seawater used for cooling and condensing steam. A water jet injector 7 is connected to the cooling water inlet 37 via a cooling water line 54, introducing seawater from the jet pump P1 as cooling water. The cooling water line 54 is provided with a temperature detector 66 for detecting the temperature of the cooling water and a pressure gauge 67 for detecting the pressure of the cooling water. When the cooling seawater introduced into the condensing manifold 32A of the first manifold 32 flows into the heat transfer tubes 50 of the condensing manifold 33A of the second manifold 33, it is cooled and condensed through heat exchange between the cooling seawater and the steam supplied in the horizontal pipe 31. The fresh water generated by condensation is taken out from the fresh water outlet 38 located at the lower end of the horizontal pipe 31 via the fresh water delivery line 52, and then pumped by the fresh water pump P2. Figure 2(The contents of the text are omitted) are transported to the clear water tank (not shown). At the freshwater outlet line 52, there is a salt concentration meter 79 for measuring the salt concentration of the freshwater, a freshwater level switch 88 for detecting the freshwater level, a flow meter 95 for measuring the freshwater flow rate, and a flow regulating valve 62 for adjusting the freshwater flow rate. At the condensate manifold 33A of the second manifold 33, there is a cooling water outlet 39 for discharging cooling seawater from each heat transfer tube 50; the cooling seawater discharged from the cooling water outlet 39 is discharged, for example, to the outside of the ship via the cooling seawater discharge line 51. At the cooling seawater discharge line 51, there is a temperature detector 53 for measuring the temperature of the cooling seawater, a drain pressure gauge 55 for measuring the water pressure of the cooling seawater, and a cooling water outlet valve 56 for adjusting the cooling seawater flow rate.

[0071] A raw seawater inlet 45 is provided on the partition plate 36 of the second manifold to introduce a portion of the cooling seawater discharged from the recirculating tank 5. This portion of the cooling seawater discharged from the recirculating tank 5 is introduced into the preheating manifold chamber 33B of the second manifold 33 via the raw seawater inlet 45. Then, the preheating manifold chamber 32B of the first manifold 32 flows into each heat transfer tube 60 constituting the preheater 6. At this time, the cooling seawater is heated by heat exchange with the steam supplied in the horizontal tube 31 as it flows within each heat transfer tube 60. A raw seawater outlet 29 is provided on the preheating manifold chamber 32B of the first manifold 32 to discharge the cooling seawater. The cooling seawater discharged from the raw seawater outlet 29 is supplied as raw seawater to the lower tube 21 of the heater 2 via the raw seawater supply line 24. The raw seawater supply line 24 is equipped with a water supply regulating valve 61 for adjusting the flow rate of cooling seawater, a water supply pressure gauge 69 for measuring the water pressure of cooling seawater, a water supply orifice 57 for adjusting the flow rate of cooling seawater, and a refrigerant exhaust valve 44 for discharging air mixed into the preheater 6.

[0072] A gas outlet 42 is provided at the upper end of the sleeve 30 of the horizontal pipe 31, and a brine outlet 43 is provided at the lower end of the sleeve 30. The gas outlet 42 is connected to the water jet 7 via a suction line 46. Non-condensable gas inside the horizontal pipe 31 is drawn in by the water jet 7, maintaining a reduced pressure (vacuum) state below atmospheric pressure inside the horizontal pipe 31 or sleeve 30, allowing for the evaporation and condensation of the raw seawater under reduced pressure (vacuum) conditions within the horizontal pipe 31 or sleeve 30. The vacuum level is measured by a pressure gauge 68 connected to the condenser 3. The flow rate of the suction line 46 can be adjusted by a vacuum regulating valve (flow regulating valve) 84. Furthermore, the brine outlet 43 is connected to the water jet 7 via a brine discharge line 48. The brine (seawater) evaporated inside the sleeve 30 is drawn in through the water jet 7 from the brine outlet 43 and discharged outside the ship. A brine check valve 63 is provided on the brine discharge line 48.

[0073] [Composition of the Management Device]

[0074] Figure 1 The management device 100 shown is connected to the water-making device 1 via wired or wireless communication. In this embodiment, the management device 100 is located inside the ship, but it can also be located outside the ship (e.g., on land). Furthermore, the management device 100 can be configured using a general-purpose computer or a dedicated computer such as a control panel. Alternatively, the management device 100 can be integrated with the water-making device 1.

[0075] like Figure 1 As shown, the management device 100 includes an operation status acquisition unit 110, an anomaly detection unit 120, and a fault troubleshooting unit 130. Each of the operation status acquisition unit 110, the anomaly detection unit 120, and the fault troubleshooting unit 130 can be implemented using hardware such as logic circuits or software such as a CPU. In the case of software implementation, the aforementioned units can be implemented by the CPU reading and executing a management program stored in the storage device of the management device 100 from the main storage device. This management program can also be downloaded to the management device 100 via a communication network such as the Internet, or it can be stored on a computer-readable non-temporary storage medium such as a CD-ROM and installed onto the management device 100 via that storage medium.

[0076] The operation status acquisition unit 110 acquires information about the operation status of the water production device 1 (operation status acquisition step). In this embodiment, the operation status acquisition unit 110 acquires the detection values ​​from the temperature detector 90, temperature detector 66, flow meter 91, temperature detector 92, temperature detector 65, pressure gauge 68, steam thermometer 94, flow meter 95, salinity meter 79, water supply pressure gauge 69, seawater pressure gauge 64, temperature detector 53, water level sensor 98, and drainage pressure gauge 55 of the water production device 1 as the aforementioned information.

[0077] The anomaly detection unit 120 detects anomalies in the water production device 1 based on information about its operating status obtained by the operating status acquisition unit 110. For each detection value included in the aforementioned information, a normal range is defined. When at least one detection value is outside this range, the anomaly detection unit 120 determines that an anomaly has occurred in the water production device 1 and identifies the content (phenomenon) of the anomaly and its main cause. If the main cause can be identified, the anomaly detection unit 120 inputs the identified phenomenon and the main cause information to the troubleshooting unit 130. If the main cause cannot be identified, the anomaly detection unit 120 inputs the identified phenomenon and information regarding the unknown main cause to the troubleshooting unit 130.

[0078] The troubleshooting unit 130 is a functional block used to resolve an abnormality when the abnormality detection unit 120 detects an abnormality. To implement this function, the troubleshooting unit 130 includes a control unit 131 and a prompting unit 132.

[0079] The control unit 131 controls the water production device 1 to resolve the aforementioned abnormality when the abnormality detection unit 120 detects an abnormality. The abnormality targeted by the control unit 131 is limited to those that can be automatically resolved without human intervention.

[0080] The prompting unit 132 prompts the user of the water-making device 1 for a method to resolve the abnormality when the abnormality detection unit 120 detects an abnormality. The method of prompting the user is not particularly limited; it can be displayed on a screen or guided by voice. Alternatively, it can output information for resolving the abnormality to other devices (e.g., a ship's control panel) via wired or wireless means. The abnormality targeted by the prompting unit 132 is not particularly limited; it can be limited to abnormalities that cannot be automatically resolved. In this embodiment, the control unit 131 is activated when an abnormality that can be automatically resolved is detected; the prompting unit 132 is activated when an abnormality that cannot be automatically resolved is detected.

[0081] [Troubleshooting Summary]

[0082] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the management device 100. In the management device 100, the operation status acquisition unit 110 continuously acquires information about the operation status of the water production device 1 (operation status acquisition step S1); the anomaly detection unit 120 detects an anomaly in the water production device 1 based on the information acquired by the operation status acquisition unit 110 (anomaly detection step S2). If an anomaly is actually detected (YES in step S3), the fault resolution unit 130 determines whether the detected anomaly is one that can be automatically resolved (step S4). If the detected anomaly is one that can be automatically resolved (YES in step S4), the control unit 131 controls the water production device 1 to resolve the anomaly (step S5). Therefore, if the anomaly can be resolved (YES in step S6), the process returns to step S2. If the detected abnormality is one that cannot be automatically resolved (NO in step S4), or if the control unit 131 cannot resolve the abnormality (NO in step S6), the prompting unit 132 will prompt the user with a method to resolve the abnormality (step S7).

[0083] [Specific examples of troubleshooting]

[0084] Figures 5-8 This refers to the main phenomena that may occur in the water production device, the main causes corresponding to these phenomena, and the processing and prompting content of the control unit corresponding to each main cause.

[0085] The main phenomena that may occur in a water production device are roughly as follows:

[0086] 1) Insufficient water production ( Figure 5 , Figure 6 )

[0087] 2) High salt concentration in freshwater ( Figure 7 )

[0088] 3) Scale buildup ( Figure 8 ).

[0089] In this embodiment, "water production capacity" refers to the amount of fresh water produced by the water production device 1 per unit time. The fresh water salinity concentration is set to a rated value according to the performance requirements of the water production device 1. In addition, scale is a component such as calcium sulfate contained in seawater that precipitates out due to the evaporation of seawater and easily adheres to the heating pipe 22, etc.

[0090] (Phenomenon 1)

[0091] First, the detected Figure 5 as well as Figure 6 The handling of Phenomenon 1 (insufficient water production) will be explained. The sub-phenomenon corresponding to Phenomenon 1 is:

[0092] 11) Reduced heating capacity Figure 5 )

[0093] 12) Insufficient cooling capacity Figure 5 )

[0094] 13) The vacuum inside condenser 3 decreases ( Figure 6 ).

[0095] The primary cause of sub-phenomenon 11 (reduced heating capacity) (cause 1):

[0096] A) Insufficient warm water

[0097] B) The water temperature is lower than the specified value.

[0098] C) Pollution and scale buildup in the warm water supply line.

[0099] Cause A can be identified by the readings from flow meter 91, temperature detector 92, or temperature detector 65. Cause B can be identified by the reading from temperature detector 92. Cause C can be identified by at least one of the following: the readings from flow meter 91, temperature detector 92, flow meter 95 (water production), temperature detector 53, temperature detector 65, and temperature detector 66.

[0100] If cause A is identified, the control unit 131 is activated, and the warm water flow rate is increased by adjusting at least one of the warm water inlet valve 80, the flow rate regulating three-way valve 81, the warm water outlet valve 82, and the flow rate regulating valve 83. If this does not resolve the issue, the prompting unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to increase the warm water flow rate.

[0101] If cause B is identified, the prompt unit 132 will be activated to prompt the user to raise the warm water temperature to above the specified value. If cause C is identified, the prompt unit 132 will be activated to prompt the user:

[0102] •Warm water supply line 71

[0103] • It operates to inhibit scale buildup.

[0104] The primary cause of sub-phenomenon 12 (insufficient cooling capacity):

[0105] D) Poor freshwater excretion

[0106] E) Insufficient cooling water volume

[0107] F) High cooling water temperature

[0108] G) Contamination and scale buildup inside the heat transfer tube 50 of the recirculating water unit 5

[0109] H) Poor air removal from the heat transfer tube 50 of the recirculating water heater 5.

[0110] Secondary cause of cause D (cause 2):

[0111] D1) The flow regulating valve 62 of the freshwater delivery line 52 is closed.

[0112] D2) Pump P2 failure

[0113] D3) Piping blockage of freshwater delivery line 52

[0114] D4) Pump P2 is drawing in air.

[0115] These secondary causes D1 to D4 can be identified not only by the detection values ​​of the flow meter 95 (water production) and the freshwater level switch 88, but also by the freshwater discharge pressure and the switch of the freshwater pump.

[0116] If any of the secondary causes D1 to D4 are identified, prompting unit 132 will be activated. For secondary cause D1, prompting unit 132 will prompt to open the valve of fresh water delivery line 52; for secondary cause D2, prompting to repair pump P2; for secondary cause D3, prompting to inspect and clean the piping of fresh water delivery line 52; and for secondary cause D4, prompting to adjust pump P2.

[0117] Secondary cause of cause E (cause 2):

[0118] E1) Malfunction of water jet 7

[0119] E2) The supply of cooling water (seawater for cooling) to water production device 1 is small.

[0120] Secondary cause E1 is a malfunction of the water jet injector 7 itself; secondary cause E2 is a malfunction of the jet pump P1 or other piping. These secondary causes E1 and E2 are identified by the measured values ​​of the seawater pressure gauge 64 (jet injector inlet pressure) and the pressure gauge 67. If secondary cause E1 is identified, the control unit 131 or the prompting unit 132 will respond accordingly to cause J (described later). Figure 6 The process involves identifying the secondary cause E2 and activating control unit 131 to increase the cooling water flow. If this does not resolve the issue, prompting unit 132 is activated to alert the user.

[0121] • Increase cooling water volume

[0122] • Confirm the pump and piping system.

[0123] Cause F is determined by the reading from temperature detector 90. Cause G is determined by at least one of the following: the reading from seawater pressure gauge 64 (ejector inlet pressure), the reading from flow meter 95 (water production rate), the reading from temperature detector 53, the reading from temperature detector 66, and the reading from steam thermometer 94. If cause F is found, the prompt unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to lower the cooling water temperature. If cause G is found, the prompt unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to clean the heat transfer tube 50 of the recirculating water unit 5.

[0124] Cause H is determined by the detection value of at least one of the temperature detector 53, temperature detector 66, pressure gauge 68, seawater pressure gauge 64, and flow meter 95. If cause H is found, the prompt unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to check, clean, or replace the vacuum regulating valve 84.

[0125] like Figure 6 As shown, the primary cause of sub-phenomenon 13 (vacuum reduction) is:

[0126] J) Malfunction of water jet 7

[0127] K) Where there is an air leak

[0128] L) Malfunction of pressure gauge 68

[0129] M) Insufficient cooling water volume

[0130] N) The hole in heating element 22

[0131] P) Excessive water supply.

[0132] Secondary cause of cause J:

[0133] J1) The driving water pressure of water jet 7 is not up to the specified value.

[0134] J2) Back pressure exceeds the specified value

[0135] J3) The pressure at drain pressure gauge 55 / pressure gauge 67 becomes negative pressure.

[0136] J4) Corrosion and wear of the nozzle or spray tube of water jet 7

[0137] J5) The brine check valve 63 is in a fixed state.

[0138] J6) The nozzle of water jet 7 is blocked by foreign objects.

[0139] J7) Close the extraction line 46 or vacuum regulating valve 84.

[0140] Furthermore, "back pressure" refers to the pressure within the cooling seawater discharge line 51.

[0141] Identify the situation for cause J1, and the third cause of cause J1 (cause 3):

[0142] J11) Jet pump P1 malfunction

[0143] J12) Excessive pressure loss in piping

[0144] The flow regulating valve 99 (J13) is not open to an adequate degree.

[0145] Causes J11 and J13 are identified by checking the inlet pressure of the injection pump P1. If cause J11 is identified, the prompting unit 132 is activated, instructing the user to repair the injection pump P1. If cause J13 is identified, the control unit 131 is activated to adjust the opening degree of the flow regulating valve 99. If this does not resolve the issue, the prompting unit 132 is activated again, instructing the user to adjust the opening degree of the flow regulating valve 99. Cause J12 cannot be automatically identified, but if causes J11 and J13 are not identified, cause J12 is highly probable. Therefore, the prompting unit 132 indicates cause J12 as a strong possible alternative and instructs the user to review the piping diameter, valve type, etc., to reduce pressure loss.

[0146] Cause J2 is identified through the readings of pressure gauge 67. If cause J2 is identified, control unit 131 is activated to adjust the opening degree of cooling water outlet valve 56 installed on cooling seawater discharge line 51. If this does not resolve the issue, prompting unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to check for blockage in cooling seawater discharge line 51 and the opening degree of cooling water outlet valve 56 installed on cooling seawater discharge line 51.

[0147] Cause J3 is identified by measuring the values ​​from the drain pressure gauge 55 and pressure gauge 67. If cause J3 is identified, the control unit 131 is activated to adjust the opening degree of the cooling water outlet valve 56. If this does not resolve the issue, the prompting unit 132 is activated to instruct the user to slightly turn the cooling water outlet valve 56.

[0148] Cause J4 is identified by the inlet pressure of the jet pump P1. If cause J4 is identified, the prompt unit 132 will be activated to instruct the user to replace the nozzle or jet tube with a brand new one.

[0149] Causes J5 to J7 are identified by the inlet pressure of the jet pump P1 and the evaporation temperature or evaporation pressure of the raw seawater measured by the pressure gauge 68, steam thermometer 94, and water level sensor 98. When cause J5 is identified, the prompt unit 132 is activated to notify the user:

[0150] • Open and inspect or clean the brine check valve

[0151] • Replace the brine check valve with a brand new one if necessary.

[0152] Once the cause J6 is identified, the prompting unit 132 is activated, prompting the user to clean the nozzle.

[0153] To identify the situation leading to cause J7, the third cause of cause J7 can be listed as follows:

[0154] The check valve on the J71 extraction line 46 is in a fixed state.

[0155] J72) The vacuum regulating valve 84 is not fully open.

[0156] After identifying the cause J71, the prompting unit 132 is activated to notify the user:

[0157] • Perform an opening inspection and cleaning of the check valve.

[0158] Replace the check valve as needed.

[0159] If the cause J72 is identified, the prompting unit 132 will be activated to prompt the user to adjust the vacuum regulating valve 84 to the opening direction.

[0160] Cause K, like causes J5 to J7, is identified by the inlet pressure of the jet pump P1 and the evaporation temperature or pressure of the raw seawater measured by the steam thermometer 94 and the pressure gauge 68. When cause K is identified, the prompting unit 132 is activated to instruct the user to perform an air test at a specified pressure (e.g., 0.05 MPa) to locate and repair the leak.

[0161] Once the cause L is identified, the prompt unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to replace the pressure gauge 68 with a brand new one.

[0162] If cause M is found, the control unit 131 or the prompting unit 132 operates in the same manner as if cause E was found.

[0163] If cause N is found, the prompting unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to find the hole or loose part and replace (temporarily insert) the tube.

[0164] Identify the circumstances surrounding cause P, and the secondary causes of cause P:

[0165] P1) The water supply regulating valve 61 is opened to too large an extent.

[0166] P2) Water supply orifice 57 wear

[0167] P3) High water supply pressure.

[0168] Causes P1 and P3 are identified by the pressure at the water supply orifice 57. If cause P1 is identified, the control unit 131 is activated to adjust the opening degree of the water supply regulating valve 61. If this does not resolve the issue, the prompting unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to adjust the opening degree of the water supply regulating valve 61. If cause P3 is identified, the control unit 131 is activated to perform the following controls:

[0169] • Adjust the opening degree of the water supply regulating valve 61

[0170] • Increase the opening degree of the cooling water outlet valve 56 of the cooling seawater discharge line 51.

[0171] If the problem persists, the prompt unit 132 will alert the user:

[0172] • Adjust the opening degree of the water supply regulating valve 61

[0173] • Increase the opening degree of the cooling water outlet valve 56 of the cooling seawater discharge line 51.

[0174] If cause P2 cannot be automatically identified, but causes P1 and P3 are not identified, cause P2 is highly likely. Therefore, the prompting unit 132 indicates cause P2 as a strong candidate and prompts the user to replace the water inlet 57 with a brand new one.

[0175] (Phenomenon 2)

[0176] Next, the detected... Figure 7 The handling of phenomenon 2 (high freshwater salinity) will be explained. The sub-phenomenon corresponding to phenomenon 2 is:

[0177] 21) Excessive water production (excessive water output)

[0178] 22) Low evaporation temperature (low seawater temperature)

[0179] 23) Poor saline drainage

[0180] 24) The problem occurred in screen separator 41

[0181] 25) Damage to the steam-water separator plate 40

[0182] 26) A hole in the heat transfer tube 50 of the recirculating water unit 5 (loose expansion section).

[0183] 27) Changes in operating conditions

[0184] 28) Pollution of the original seawater.

[0185] Also, although the salinity meter is not shown, it is installed on the freshwater delivery line 52.

[0186] Sub-phenomenon 21 (excessive water production) is detected by the flow meter 95's measurement value (water production volume). Upon detecting sub-phenomenon 21, the control unit 131 is activated to control the water production device 1 to reduce the water production volume to below the rated water production volume. If this does not resolve the issue, the prompting unit 132 is activated to remind the user to operate below the rated water production volume.

[0187] Sub-phenomenon 22 (low evaporation temperature) is detected by measuring the flow rate (water production) of the flow meter 95 and the steam temperature of the steam thermometer 94. Upon detecting sub-phenomenon 22, the control unit 131 is activated to perform at least one of the following controls:

[0188] Rotate vacuum regulating valve 84

[0189] • The evaporation temperature is increased by slightly opening the vacuum breaker valve 59.

[0190] If the problem persists, the prompt unit 132 will alert the user:

[0191] Rotate vacuum regulating valve 84

[0192] • The evaporation temperature is increased by slightly opening the vacuum breaker valve 59.

[0193] The cause of sub-phenomenon 23 (poor saline excretion):

[0194] Q) Water jet 7 malfunction

[0195] R) Excessive water supply.

[0196] If cause Q is found, the control unit 131 or the prompting unit 132 will perform actions corresponding to the aforementioned cause J. Figure 6 The control unit 131 or the prompting unit 132 shall perform processing corresponding to the aforementioned cause P if the cause R is found.

[0197] The cause of sub-phenomenon 24 (the problem occurs in screen separator 41):

[0198] S) Salt precipitation, solid adhesion

[0199] There is a gap between T) and the wall of the sleeve 30.

[0200] If the cause S is identified, the prompting unit 132 is activated to prompt the user:

[0201] • Inspect and clean the screen separator 41 to remove salt.

[0202] Replace the screen separator 41 with a brand new one.

[0203] If the cause T is identified, the prompt unit 132 will be activated to prompt the user:

[0204] Install without gaps

[0205] If the gap cannot be filled, replace sleeve 30 with a brand new one.

[0206] If sub-phenomenon 25 is detected, the prompt unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to replace the soda separator plate 40 with a brand new one.

[0207] Sub-phenomenon 26 (a hole in the heat transfer tube 50 of the recirculating water unit 5 (loose expansion section)) is detected by measuring the values ​​of the drain pressure gauge 55 and the supply water pressure gauge 69. When sub-phenomenon 26 is detected, the prompting unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to find the hole or loose part and replace (temporarily insert) the tube.

[0208] Sub-phenomenon 27 (change in operating conditions) is detected by at least one of the detection values ​​from the seawater pressure gauge 64, temperature detector 65, temperature detector 90, flow meter 91, and temperature detector 92. When sub-phenomenon 27 is detected, the prompt unit 132 is activated to notify the user:

[0209] • Reduce the amount of warm water and temporarily operate at a low water production rate.

[0210] • Do not make drastic changes to operating conditions.

[0211] Sub-phenomenon 28 (contamination of raw seawater) is detected by at least one of the following: the detection value of flow meter 91, the detection value of temperature detector 92, the detection value of flow meter 95 (water production volume), the detection value of temperature detector 53, the detection value of temperature detector 65, and the detection value of temperature detector 66. When sub-phenomenon 28 is detected, the prompt unit 132 is activated to remind the user to avoid operation in ports, estuaries, or polluted sea areas.

[0212] (Phenomenon 3)

[0213] Next, the detected... Figure 8 The handling of phenomenon 3 (scale buildup) will be explained. In this embodiment, "buildup" refers to a quantity of scale buildup that hinders the operation of the water production device 1. The sub-phenomenon corresponding to phenomenon 3 is:

[0214] 31) Insufficient water supply

[0215] 32) Excessive water production

[0216] 33) No scale inhibitor was injected.

[0217] 34) Cooling was not performed when the machine stopped.

[0218] 35) Leakage from the warm water inlet pipe 25 or the warm water outlet pipe 26 (when the water making device 1 is stopped)

[0219] 36) The water temperature is high.

[0220] The cause of sub-phenomenon 31 (insufficient water supply):

[0221] U) Insufficient opening degree of water supply regulating valve 61

[0222] V) Blockage of water supply orifice 57

[0223] W) Fault in water pressure gauge 69

[0224] X) The pressure inside the heat transfer tube 50 of the recirculating water device 5 is insufficient.

[0225] Cause U is identified by the readings from the water pressure gauge 69. If cause U is identified, the control unit 131 is activated to open the water supply regulating valve 61 and set the water supply pressure within the green indicator range (e.g., 0.04–0.06 MPa). If this does not resolve the issue, the prompting unit 132 is activated to instruct the user to set the water supply pressure within the green indicator range.

[0226] If cause V is identified, the prompting unit 132 is activated to prompt the user:

[0227] • Inspect and clean the water supply orifice 57

[0228] • Inspect and clean the filter 58 of the seawater pipeline 8.

[0229] If the cause W is identified, the prompting unit 132 will be activated to prompt the user:

[0230] • Perform exhaust ventilation and confirm the indicated value.

[0231] Replace the water pressure gauge 69 with a brand new one.

[0232] Cause X is identified by the readings from the drain pressure gauge 55. If cause X is identified, the control unit 131 is activated to rotate the cooling water outlet valve 56 and maintain the water supply pressure within the green indicator range (e.g., 0.04–0.06 MPa). If this does not resolve the issue, the prompting unit 132 is activated to instruct the user to maintain the water supply pressure within the green indicator range.

[0233] Furthermore, if the user is unable to resolve the phenomenon due to causes U or X, the sub-phenomenon is highly likely to be caused by cause V or W.

[0234] Sub-phenomenon 32 (excessive water production) is detected by measuring the water production rate (water production volume) of the flow meter 95. When sub-phenomenon 32 is detected, the control unit 131 is activated to control the operation below the rated water production rate.

[0235] Sub-phenomenon 33 (no scale inhibitor injected) is detected by a water level sensor in the chemical injection tank (not shown). When sub-phenomenon 33 is detected, prompting unit 132 is activated to remind the user to follow the instructions for use of the chemical solution and inject the prescribed amount.

[0236] Sub-phenomenon 34 (failure to cool during operation stoppage) is detected by the values ​​measured by temperature detector 65, flow meter 91, or temperature detector 92. If sub-phenomenon 34 is detected, control unit 131 is activated to ensure that, after a specified time (e.g., 30 minutes) following the cessation of warm water supply when operation stops, only the cooling water system operates and the heater 2 is cooled. If this does not resolve the issue, prompting unit 132 is activated to remind the user that after a specified time following the cessation of warm water supply, only the cooling water system operates and the heater 2 is cooled.

[0237] Sub-phenomenon 35 (leakage from the warm water inlet valve 80 or the warm water outlet valve 82) is detected by the detection values ​​of temperature detector 92 (warm water inlet temperature) and temperature detector 65 (warm water outlet temperature). When sub-phenomenon 35 is detected, the prompting unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to perform maintenance or replacement of the warm water inlet and outlet valves.

[0238] Sub-phenomenon 36 (high warm water temperature) is detected by the temperature detector 92 (warm water inlet temperature). Upon detecting sub-phenomenon 36, the prompt unit 132 is activated to notify the user:

[0239] Adjust the warm water temperature to below the planned value.

[0240] • Increase the water supply (e.g., increase the water pressure to 0.06 MPa)

[0241] • Increase the amount of scale inhibitor injected.

[0242] [Summarize]

[0243] As described above, the management device 100 of this embodiment includes an operation status acquisition unit 110 that acquires information about the operation status of the water-making device 1, and an anomaly detection unit 120 that detects anomalies in the water-making device 1 based on the aforementioned information acquired by the operation status acquisition unit 110. Therefore, the ship's crew and others can detect anomalies in the water-making device 1 at an early stage, allowing for timely response and handling before actual disruption to operation, and supporting problem resolution.

[0244] Furthermore, the management device 100, upon detecting an anomaly, further includes a control unit 131 that controls the water-generating device 1 to resolve the aforementioned anomaly. Thus, the problem can be resolved without requiring assistance from crew members or others.

[0245] Furthermore, the management device 100, upon detecting an anomaly, further includes a notification unit 132 that provides the user of the water-making device 1 with instructions on how to resolve the anomaly. This allows crew members and others to resolve the problem independently, without relying on external personnel on the ship. Additionally, it allows for the identification of parts requiring repair or replacement.

[0246] [Variation Example]

[0247] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various modifications can be made as long as they do not depart from the concept of the present invention.

[0248] In the above embodiments, the water-making device 1 is in the form of using waste heat generated from a diesel engine or elsewhere as a heat source, but the type of water-making device 1 is not particularly limited. For example, the present invention can be applied to water-making devices that utilize steam (steam ejector type).

[0249] Figure 9 This is a schematic structural diagram of a water-making device 1' in the form of a steam ejector. Figure 9 In, it has the same as Figure 2 Parts with the same function as the water-making device 1 shown are given the same symbols. Figure 2 In the water-making device 1 shown, jacketed cooling water is introduced into heater 2, while Figure 9 In the water production device 1' shown, steam is introduced into the heater 2. Therefore, the water production device 1' includes a steam ejector 76, a steam supply line 77, and a steam discharge line 78. The steam supply line 86, which introduces steam into the steam ejector 76, is equipped with a flow regulating valve 96 and a steam pressure gauge 97; the steam discharge line 78 is equipped with a steam discharge line 87.

[0250] Industrial availability

[0251] In addition to the water-making device described above, this invention can also be applied to plate-type water-making devices or multi-functional water-making devices.

[0252] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0253] 1,1': Water production device (vacuum evaporation type water production device)

[0254] 2: Heater

[0255] 3: Condenser

[0256] 4: Gas-water separation mechanism

[0257] 5: Refiller

[0258] 6: Preheater

[0259] 7: Water jet

[0260] 8: Seawater pipeline

[0261] 25: Warm water inlet pipe

[0262] 26: Warm water drain pipe

[0263] 46: Air extraction line

[0264] 48: Saltwater discharge line

[0265] 50: Heat transfer tube

[0266] 51: Seawater discharge line for cooling

[0267] 52: Freshwater delivery line

[0268] 59: Vacuum Breaker Valve

[0269] 63: Saltwater check valve

[0270] 68: Pressure gauge

[0271] 71: Warm water supply line

[0272] 84: Vacuum regulating valve

[0273] 100: Management device

[0274] 110: Operational Status Acquisition Department

[0275] 120: Anomaly Detection Department

[0276] 130: Troubleshooting Department

[0277] 131: Control Department

[0278] 132: Prompt Department.

Claims

1. A management device for managing a vacuum evaporation water production device that produces fresh water from seawater, characterized in that: The operation status acquisition unit acquires information about the operation status of the vacuum evaporation water production device; and The anomaly detection unit detects anomalies in the vacuum evaporation water production device based on the information obtained by the operating status acquisition unit. The control unit controls the vacuum evaporation water production device to resolve the abnormality when it detects an abnormality that can be automatically resolved. The vacuum evaporation water production device includes: The heater heats the raw seawater and generates steam by cooling the jacketed cooling water of the ship's internal combustion engine; and The condenser is used to cool the steam generated in the heater by passing it through a cooling seawater to produce fresh water; The anomaly is due to insufficient heater capacity, resulting in insufficient freshwater production. The main cause of this abnormality is insufficient cooling water in the jacket. The control unit controls the increase in the amount of cooling water in the jacket.

2. The management device according to claim 1, wherein, Furthermore, it includes a prompting unit; this prompting unit provides the user of the vacuum evaporation water generator with instructions on how to resolve the abnormality when the abnormality is detected.

3. The management device according to claim 2, wherein, The main cause of this anomaly is that the temperature of the cooling water in the jacket is lower than the specified value. This prompt is to remind the user to raise the temperature above the specified value.

4. The management device according to claim 2, wherein, The main cause of this anomaly is either contamination of the heater due to the jacket cooling water, or scale buildup on the heater from the seawater. This prompt is to instruct the user to clean the cooling water supply line of the jacket or to perform an operation to inhibit the adhesion of scale.

5. A management method for managing a vacuum evaporation water production device that produces fresh water from seawater, characterized in that: The operational status acquisition step involves obtaining information about the operational status of the vacuum evaporation water production device; and The anomaly detection step is based on the information obtained in the operation state acquisition step to detect anomalies in the vacuum evaporation water production device. The control step is to control the vacuum evaporation water production device to resolve the abnormality when an abnormality that can be automatically resolved is detected. The vacuum evaporation water production device includes: The heater heats the raw seawater and generates steam by cooling the jacketed cooling water of the ship's internal combustion engine; and The condenser is used to cool the steam generated in the heater by passing it through a cooling system of seawater to produce fresh water. The anomaly is due to insufficient heater capacity, resulting in insufficient freshwater production. The main cause of this anomaly is insufficient cooling water in the jacket. The control step is to control the increase of the amount of cooling water in the jacket.

6. A storage medium for enabling a computer to function, which stores a management program useful for enabling the computer to function as various parts of a management device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

Images