Selection system

Abstract

There has been a problem that when an unskilled designer of a device selects an operation condition of the device, it is difficult to select an operation condition in which the change cost of the device is reduced. A selection system (1) is provided with an input unit (211), a first calculation unit (212), a second calculation unit (213), and a selection unit (214). The input unit (211) inputs restrictions relating to the operation of the equipment, and specifications and throughput of products manufactured by the equipment. A first calculation unit (212) automatically simulates the operation of a device, and calculates candidates satisfying operation conditions of restrictions, product specifications, and throughput. The second calculation unit (213) calculates a change fee when operating in accordance with a candidate as the calculation result of the first calculation unit (212). The selection unit (214) automatically compares the change fees corresponding to the plurality of candidates, and selects a first operation condition, which is a candidate for an operation condition having a low change fees, from among the plurality of candidates.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a selection system. Background Art

[0002] As disclosed in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-094938), there is a technique in which a designer of a device such as a distillation column selects operating conditions of the device to produce a target product. Summary of the invention

[0003] Problems to be solved by the invention

[0004] When an unskilled designer of a facility selects operating conditions of the facility, Patent Document 1 discloses that it is difficult to select operating conditions that reduce variable costs of the facility.

[0005] Means for solving problems

[0006] The selection system of the first aspect selects operating conditions of low-cost equipment including variable costs of the equipment. The selection system includes an input unit, a first operation unit, a second operation unit, and a selection unit. The input unit inputs constraints related to the operation of the equipment, specifications of products manufactured by the equipment, and production volume of the products. The first operation unit automatically performs a simulation of the operation of the equipment and calculates candidates for operating conditions that satisfy the constraints, specifications, and production volume. The second operation unit calculates the variable costs when operating according to the candidate that is the result of the operation of the first operation unit. The selection unit repeatedly performs operations based on the first operation unit and operations based on the second operation unit. The selection unit automatically compares the variable costs corresponding to a plurality of candidates and selects a candidate for an operating condition with a low variable cost, i.e., the first operating condition, from the plurality of candidates.

[0007] In the selection system of the first aspect, the selection unit repeatedly performs calculations by the first calculation unit and calculations by the second calculation unit. The selection unit automatically compares the variable costs corresponding to the plurality of candidates and selects the first operating condition, which is a candidate for the operating condition with low variable costs, from the plurality of candidates. As a result, the selection system can select the operating condition with low variable costs for the equipment instead of an unskilled designer of the equipment.

[0008] The selected system of the second aspect is the selected system of the first aspect, wherein the equipment includes a distillation column for purifying a raw material to produce a product, and the operating conditions of the equipment include at least one of the number of stages of the distillation column, the operating pressure, the raw material feed stage, and the reflux rate.

[0009] The selected system of the third aspect is the selected system of the second aspect, wherein the equipment purifies the raw material by extractive distillation, and the operating conditions of the equipment further include at least one of an extractant feed section and an extractant flow rate of the distillation column.

[0010] The selected system of the fourth aspect is the selected system of the first aspect, wherein the equipment includes: a distillation tower for refining the raw material; a heater disposed at the bottom of the distillation tower; and a cooler disposed at the top of the distillation tower. The variable cost includes the cost related to the raw material and the utility cost of the heater and the cooler.

[0011] The selected system of the fifth aspect is the selected system of the fourth aspect, wherein the equipment purifies the raw material by extractive distillation. The equipment further includes an extractant cooler for cooling the extractant. The variable cost also includes the cost related to the extractant and the utility cost of the extractant cooler.

[0012] A selection system according to a sixth aspect is the selection system according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the cost is a variable cost of existing equipment. The input unit further inputs specifications of the equipment.

[0013] The selection system of the 7th viewpoint is a selection system of any one of the 1st viewpoint to the 5th viewpoint, wherein the cost is the equipment introduction cost and the equipment variable cost required for introducing the equipment. The 1st operation unit automatically performs a simulation of the operation of the equipment, and calculates candidates for operating conditions that satisfy constraints, specifications, and production volume, and candidates for specifications of the equipment that satisfy constraints, specifications, and production volume. The 2nd operation unit calculates the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost when operating according to the candidate as the calculation result of the 1st operation unit. The selection unit repeatedly performs calculations based on the 1st operation unit and calculations based on the 2nd operation unit. The selection unit automatically compares the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost corresponding to a plurality of candidates, and selects a second operating condition as a candidate for the operating condition and a first specification of the equipment as a candidate for the equipment specification, which has a low total of the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost, from the plurality of candidates.

[0014] In the selection system of the seventh aspect, the selection unit repeatedly performs the calculation by the first calculation unit and the calculation by the second calculation unit. The selection unit automatically compares the equipment introduction costs and the variable costs corresponding to the plurality of candidates, and selects the second operating condition as the candidate of the operating condition and the first specification of the equipment as the candidate of the equipment specification, which has a low total of the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost, from the plurality of candidates. As a result, the selection system can select the operating condition such that the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost are reduced, instead of an unskilled designer of the equipment.

[0015] The selection system according to an eighth aspect is the selection system according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the input unit inputs a plurality of input items for the constraints, specifications, and production volume. The plurality of input items include required input items and optional input items.

[0016] The selection system according to a ninth aspect is the selection system according to the eighth aspect, wherein the input unit further inputs a type of device, and the input unit changes the required input items with respect to the constraints based on the input type of device.

[0017] A selection system according to a tenth aspect is the selection system according to any one of the first to ninth aspects, wherein the selection unit selects the first operating condition by updating an optimization algorithm of the operating condition so as to reduce the variable cost. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the equipment.

[0019] Figure 2 is a functional block diagram of the selected system.

[0020] Figure 3 It is a diagram showing an outline of the calculation process of the objective function in the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing examples of types of devices.

[0022] Figure 5 This is a flowchart for explaining an example of the process of selecting a system in the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 6 1B is a diagram showing an overview of the calculation process of the objective function in Modification 1B.

[0024] Figure 7 This is a flowchart for explaining an example of the process of selecting a system in Modification 1B.

[0025] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing an overview of the calculation process of the objective function in the second embodiment.

[0026] Fig. 9 This is a flowchart for explaining an example of the process of selecting a system in the second embodiment.

[0027] Fig.10 This is a diagram showing an overview of the calculation process of the objective function in Modification 2B.

[0028] Fig.11 This is a flowchart for explaining an example of the process of selecting a system in Modification 2B.

[0029] Fig.12 This is a schematic diagram of the equipment that purifies raw materials by extractive distillation.

[0030] Fig.13 This is a diagram showing examples of types of equipment for purifying a raw material by extractive distillation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] <First Embodiment>

[0032] (1) Overall structure

[0033] The selection system 1 selects the operating conditions of the facility 10 that minimize the cost of the facility 10. The facility 10 and the selection system 1 will be described in detail below.

[0034] (2) Detailed structure

[0035] (2-1) Equipment

[0036] The equipment 10 manufactures target products by distilling and refining raw materials. For example, the products are refrigerants used in refrigeration cycle devices (R32, R125, R22, R134a, R143a, R1234yf, R1234ze, R1233zd, E-1132, 1123, 152a), etching agents (R23, R14, R41, R116, C318, HF), monomers (TFE, HFP (CF3CF=CF2), VDF (CF2=CH2)), chemical products (IF5, C3VE (CF3OCF=CF2)), etc. Figure 1 1 is a schematic structural diagram of the device 10. Figure 1 As shown, the apparatus 10 mainly comprises a distillation column 11, a reboiler 12 (heater) and a condenser 13 (cooler). The apparatus 10 is an existing apparatus.

[0037] The distillation tower 11 performs distillation and purification on the raw material. In other words, the distillation tower 11 separates a plurality of compounds having different boiling points contained in the raw material. A plurality of sections 14 are formed in the distillation tower 11. One of the plurality of sections 14 is a raw material feed section 14a for supplying the raw material into the distillation tower 11. In addition, one of the plurality of sections 14 is an extraction section 14b for extracting an extraction (side cut) liquid or an extraction (side cut) gas from the distillation tower 11. The extraction liquid or the extraction gas extracted from the extraction section 14b is stored in an extraction tank 18.

[0038] The reboiler 12 is provided at the bottom 11b of the fractionating tower 11. The reboiler 12 heats the raw material by exchanging heat between the raw material and the heat medium.

[0039] The condenser 13 is provided at the tower top 11t of the fractionating tower 11. The condenser 13 cools the vapor by exchanging heat between the raw material that has become vapor and the heat medium. The condenser 13 is a vertical condenser.

[0040] When the raw material is supplied to the raw material feed section 14a in the distillation tower 11, a part of the supplied raw material accumulates in the tower bottom 11b, and the rest flows out from the tower bottom 11b. A part of the raw material flowing out from the tower bottom 11b is stored in the tower bottom discharge tank 19 as the tower bottom discharge liquid, and the rest flows into the reboiler 12. The raw material flowing into the reboiler 12 is heated by the heat medium and becomes vapor. The vapor flows into the tower bottom 11b, rises while making convection contact with the raw material, and flows out from the tower top 11t. The vapor flowing out from the tower top 11t flows into the condenser 13. The vapor flowing into the condenser 13 is cooled by the heat medium to become a condensate or an uncondensed gas, and flows out from the condenser 13. A part of the condensate flowing out of the condenser 13 flows into the distillation tower 11 as a reflux liquid, and the rest is stored in the distillation tank 17 as a distillate or an uncondensed gas.

[0041] (2-2) Select the system

[0042] Figure 2 is the functional block diagram of the selected system 1. Figure 2 As shown, the selection system 1 includes a server device 2 and a user terminal 3. The server device 2 and the user terminal 3 are connected to each other in a communicable manner via a network NW. The network NW is, for example, the Internet, a LAN, or a WAN.

[0043] (2-2-1) Server device

[0044] The server device 2 selects the operating condition of the device 10 that satisfies the prescribed constraints and minimizes the cost of the device 10 based on the input from the user terminal 3. In other words, the server device 2 is a device for solving the following optimization problem: using the cost of the device 10 as an objective function, the server device 2 selects the operating condition of the device 10 that satisfies the prescribed constraints and minimizes the value of the objective function.

[0045] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an overview of the calculation process of the objective function in this embodiment. Figure 3 , there is shown a calculation process of the objective function when selecting an operating condition of the device 10 as a variable in the optimization problem from a search range of the operating conditions of the device 10. The operating condition of the device 10 is automatically selected from the search range by the optimization algorithm.

[0046] As shown in process F1, the server device 2 performs a model calculation of the distillation tower 11 (hereinafter sometimes described as a distillation tower model calculation) based on the operating conditions of the device 10 selected from the search range and the specifications of the device 10 included in the input from the user terminal 3. When the distillation tower model calculation is completed, the server device 2 performs a model calculation of the heat exchanger (reboiler 12 and condenser 13) based on the output of the distillation tower model calculation and the specifications of the device 10 as shown in process F2. When the heat exchanger model calculation is completed, the server device 2 performs an overflow calculation of the condenser 13 (hereinafter sometimes described as a vertical condenser overflow calculation) based on the output of the distillation tower model calculation and the specifications of the device 10 as shown in process F3. The vertical condenser overflow calculation is a calculation required because the condenser 13 is a vertical condenser. When the vertical condenser overflow calculation is completed, the server device 2 determines whether the outputs of the distillation column model calculation, the heat exchanger model calculation, and the vertical condenser overflow calculation satisfy the constraints included in the input from the user terminal 3 as shown in flow F4. When the constraints are satisfied, the server device 2 calculates the cost of the equipment 10 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as cost calculation) based on the output of the distillation column model calculation and the specifications of the equipment 10 as shown in flow F5. When the cost calculation is completed, the server device 2 sets the output of the cost calculation as the value of the objective function corresponding to the operating conditions of the selected equipment 10 as shown in flow F6.

[0047] like Figure 2 As shown, the server device 2 has a control operation device 21, a storage device 22, an input device 23, an output device 24, and a communication device 25. The control operation device 21 is a processor such as a CPU and a GPU. The storage device 22 is a storage medium such as a RAM, a ROM, and a HDD. The control operation device 21 reads out a program stored in the storage device 22 for realizing a functional block, etc., and performs a predetermined operation process according to the program. In addition, the control operation device 21 can write the operation result to the storage device 22 according to the program, or read out the information stored in the storage device 22. In this embodiment, the storage device 22 particularly stores a process simulator 221, an optimization software 222, and a general spreadsheet calculation software 223 described later. The input device 23 is, for example, a keyboard and a mouse. The output device 24 is, for example, a monitor. The communication device 25 is a network interface device for communicating with the user terminal 3 via the network NW.

[0048] like Figure 2 As shown, the control operation device 21 includes an input unit 211 , a first operation unit 212 , a second operation unit 213 , and a selection unit 214 as main functional blocks.

[0049] (2-2-1-1) Input section

[0050] The input unit 211 allows the user to input constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10, the specifications of the products manufactured by the equipment 10, and the production volume of the products manufactured by the equipment 10 via the user terminal 3. The constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10, the specifications of the products manufactured by the equipment 10, and the production volume of the products manufactured by the equipment 10 correspond to the constraints in the optimization problem. In the present embodiment, the constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10 include: an upper limit value of the overflow rate of the distillation tower 11 as an output of the distillation tower model calculation; a lower limit value (hereinafter sometimes described as the maximum temperature of the distillation tower 11) of the outlet temperature of the distilled fluid of the condenser 13 as an output of the distillation tower model calculation (the outlet temperature of the heat medium of the condenser 13); an upper limit value of the temperature of the bottom 11b of the distillation tower 11 as an output of the distillation tower model calculation; a lower limit value of the surplus rate of the heat transfer area of ​​the condenser 13 as an output of the heat exchanger model calculation; and an upper limit value of the overflow rate of the condenser 13 as an output of the vertical condenser overflow calculation. The specifications of the product include the compound name of the product, the purity of the product, the impurity concentration in the product, the recovery amount of the product, the recovery rate of the product, the flow loss of the product, and the loss rate of the product. The production volume of the product includes the target production volume of each component of the product. The input unit 211 inputs a plurality of input items for the constraints related to the operation of the device 10, the specifications of the product, and the production volume of the product. The plurality of input items may also include required input items and arbitrary input items.

[0051] In addition, the input unit 211 allows the user to input the specifications of the device 10 via the user terminal 3. In the present embodiment, the specifications of the device 10 include the raw material feed conditions (amount, composition, pressure, temperature), the current operating pressure, the number of stages of the distillation tower 11, the tower diameter of the distillation tower 11, the filling length of the distillation tower 11, and the specifications of the filling material of the distillation tower 11 (material and type, etc.), the specifications of the condenser 13, the inlet pressure of the condenser 13, the inlet temperature of the heat medium of the condenser 13, the outlet temperature of the heat medium of the condenser 13, the pollution coefficient of each side of the shell and tube of the condenser 13, the boundary film heat transfer coefficient of each side of the shell and tube of the condenser 13, the specifications of the tube of the condenser 13, the limit cost of the product, the annual operation time, and the practical cost of each device. The specifications of the device 10 may also include the type of the heat medium of the reboiler 12 and the type of the heat medium of the condenser 13.

[0052] In addition, in order to efficiently solve the optimization problem, the input unit 211 allows the user to input a search range of the operating conditions of the device 10 via the user terminal 3. The operating conditions of the device 10 include at least one of the number of stages of the distillation tower 11, the operating pressure of the distillation tower 11, the raw material feed stage 14a of the distillation tower 11, and the reflux amount of the distillation tower 11. The operating conditions of the device 10 may also include the distillation amount of the distillation tower 11, etc.

[0053] Furthermore, the input unit 211 allows the user to input the type of the device 10 via the user terminal 3 . Figure 4 1 is a diagram showing examples of types of devices 10. The input unit 211 is, for example, Figure 4 One type of equipment 10 is input from among the five types of equipment 10 shown, X1 to X4, Y1, and Y2. In type X1, raw materials are supplied to the distillation tower 111, and uncondensed gas, extracted liquid to become a product, and bottom discharge liquid are taken out from the distillation tower 111. In type X2, raw materials are supplied to the distillation tower 111, and uncondensed gas, extracted gas to become a product, and bottom discharge liquid are taken out from the distillation tower 111. Figure 1 The type of the device 10 shown corresponds to type X1 or type X2. In type X3, a raw material is supplied to a distillation tower 111, and a distillate as a product and a bottom discharge liquid are taken out from the distillation tower 111. In type X4, a raw material is supplied to a distillation tower 111, and uncondensed gas and a bottom discharge liquid as a product are taken out from the distillation tower 111. Types Y1 and Y2 have two distillation towers 111 and 112. In type Y1, a raw material is supplied to a distillation tower 111, and uncondensed gas and a bottom discharge liquid are taken out from the distillation tower 111. And, in type Y1, the bottom discharge liquid taken out from the distillation tower 111 is supplied to the distillation tower 112, and a distillate as a product and a bottom discharge liquid are taken out from the distillation tower 112. In type Y2, a raw material is supplied to a distillation tower 111, and uncondensed gas and a bottom discharge liquid are taken out from the distillation tower 111. Furthermore, in type Y2, the uncondensed gas taken out from the distillation tower 111 is supplied to the distillation tower 112, and the uncondensed gas and the bottom discharge liquid which becomes the product are taken out from the distillation tower 112. The input unit 211 changes the input items of the operating conditions and constraints of the equipment 10 and the specifications of the equipment 10 according to the type of the input equipment 10. In particular, the input unit 211 changes the necessary input items according to the constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10 according to the type of the input equipment 10.

[0054] (2-2-1-2) First calculation unit

[0055] The first calculation unit 212 automatically performs a simulation of the operation of the device 10, and calculates candidates for the operation conditions of the device 10 that satisfy the constraints (constraints related to the operation of the device 10, specifications of products manufactured by the device 10, and production volume of products manufactured by the device 10).

[0056] First, the first operation unit 212 performs a distillation tower model calculation. Specifically, the first operation unit 212 inputs the operating conditions of the device 10 selected from the search range and the specifications of the device 10 to the process simulator 221, and outputs the specifications of the product, the production volume of the product, the exchange heat of the reboiler 12, the exchange heat of the condenser 13, the overflow rate of the distillation tower 11, the physical properties of the fluid being distilled in the condenser 13 (the flow rate, specific gravity and viscosity of the gas phase at the top 11t of the distillation tower 11. The flow rate, specific gravity, viscosity and surface tension of the liquid phase flowing out of the condenser 13), the maximum temperature of the distillation tower 11, the temperature of the bottom 11b of the distillation tower 11, the composition distribution in the distillation tower 11, the temperature distribution in the distillation tower 11, and the material balance (equivalent to Figure 3 At this time, the specifications of the equipment 10 input to the process simulator 221 include the raw material feed conditions (amount, composition, pressure, temperature), the current operating pressure, the number of stages of the distillation tower 11, the tower diameter of the distillation tower 11, the filling length of the distillation tower 11, and the specifications of the filling material of the distillation tower 11. The process simulator 221 uses a process simulation tool such as PRO / II and ASPEN.

[0057] Next, the first operation unit 212 performs the heat exchanger model calculation. Specifically, the first operation unit 212 inputs the output of the distillation tower model calculation and the specifications of the device 10 into the process simulator 221, and outputs the logarithmic mean temperature difference of the reboiler 12, the surplus rate of the heat transfer area of ​​the condenser 13, the required heat transfer coefficient of the condenser 13, the inlet temperature of the distilled fluid of the condenser 13, the outlet temperature of the distilled fluid of the condenser 13, and the logarithmic mean temperature difference of the condenser 13 (equivalent to Figure 3 At this time, the output of the distillation tower model calculation input into the process simulator 221 includes the exchange heat of the reboiler 12 and the exchange heat of the condenser 13. The specifications of the equipment 10 input into the process simulator 221 include the specifications of the condenser 13, the inlet pressure of the condenser 13, the inlet temperature of the heat medium of the condenser 13, the outlet temperature of the heat medium of the condenser 13, the pollution coefficient of each side of the shell and tube of the condenser 13, and the boundary film heat transfer coefficient of each side of the shell and tube of the condenser 13.

[0058] Next, the first operation unit 212 performs the vertical condenser overflow calculation. Specifically, the first operation unit 212 uses, for example, spreadsheet software 223 and calculates the overflow rate of the condenser 13 (equivalent to Figure 3In this case, the output of the distillation tower model calculation input into the prescribed relational expression includes the physical property value of the fluid being distilled in the condenser 13. The specification of the equipment 10 input into the prescribed relational expression includes the specification of the Tube of the condenser 13.

[0059] Next, the first operation unit 212 determines whether the outputs of the distillation tower model calculation, the heat exchanger model calculation, and the vertical condenser overflow calculation satisfy the constraint conditions (equivalent to Figure 3 Flow F4). Specifically, the first operation unit 212 determines whether the overflow rate of the distillation tower 11 as the output of the distillation tower model calculation, the maximum temperature of the distillation tower 11 as the output of the distillation tower model calculation, the temperature of the bottom 11b of the distillation tower 11 as the output of the distillation tower model calculation, the surplus rate of the heat transfer area of ​​the condenser 13 as the output of the heat exchanger model calculation, and the overflow rate of the condenser 13 as the output of the vertical condenser overflow calculation satisfy the upper limit of the overflow rate of the distillation tower 11, the lower limit of the maximum temperature of the distillation tower 11, the upper limit of the temperature of the bottom 11b of the distillation tower 11, the lower limit of the surplus rate of the heat transfer area of ​​the condenser 13, and the upper limit of the overflow rate of the condenser 13, respectively, among the constraints included in the input from the user terminal 3. In addition, the first operation unit 212 determines whether the specifications of the product and the production volume of the product as the output of the distillation tower model calculation satisfy the specifications of the product and the production volume of the product, respectively, among the constraints included in the input from the user terminal 3. When the outputs of the distillation column model calculation, the heat exchanger model calculation, and the vertical condenser overflow calculation satisfy the constraints, the first operation unit 212 outputs the operating conditions of the device 10 used for the distillation column model calculation. When the outputs of the distillation column model calculation, the heat exchanger model calculation, and the vertical condenser overflow calculation do not satisfy the constraints, the first operation unit 212 performs the distillation column model calculation, the heat exchanger model calculation, and the vertical condenser overflow calculation using the operating conditions of the device 10 newly selected from the search range until the constraints are satisfied.

[0060] (2-2-1-3) Second Operation Unit

[0061] The second operation unit 213 uses, for example, spreadsheet software 223 to calculate the cost of the facility 10 when the facility 10 is operated according to the candidate operating conditions of the facility 10 as the result of the operation by the first operation unit 212. In the present embodiment, the cost of the facility 10 is the variable cost of the facility 10. The variable cost includes the cost related to the raw materials and the practical cost of the reboiler 12 and the condenser 13. The cost related to the raw materials is, for example, the cost of the product itself and the cost of product loss.

[0062] The second operation unit 213 performs cost calculation. Specifically, the second operation unit 213 calculates the variable cost (equivalent to Figure 3 Flow F5, F6). In this embodiment, the variable cost is calculated by "annual raw material loss + annual consumption utility cost". The annual raw material loss is calculated by "the ultimate cost of the product × the loss flow rate of the product × the annual operation time". The annual consumption utility cost is automatically calculated based on the heat calculation result calculated by the distillation tower model. The annual consumption utility cost includes the steam cost of the reboiler 12 consumed in one year, and the electricity cost of the condenser 13 consumed in one year. In addition, the ultimate cost of the product and the annual operation time are included in the specifications of the equipment 10.

[0063] (2-2-1-4) Selected Department

[0064] The selection unit 214 repeatedly performs the calculation of the first calculation unit 212 and the calculation of the second calculation unit 213. The selection unit 214 automatically compares the costs corresponding to the plurality of candidates and selects the first operating condition, which is a candidate for the operating condition with a lower cost, from the plurality of candidates. The selection unit 214 selects the first operating condition by an optimization algorithm that updates the operating condition in a manner that reduces the cost.

[0065] Specifically, the selection unit 214 inputs the operating conditions of the device 10 (variables in the optimization problem) calculated by the first operation unit 212 and the cost of the device 10 corresponding to the operating conditions (objective function in the optimization problem) calculated by the second operation unit 213 into the optimization software 222. The selection unit 214 selects the operating conditions of the device 10 within the search range where the value of the objective function can be expected to become smaller, which are output from the optimization software 222 each time they are input into the optimization software 222, as candidates for the operating conditions of the new device 10. For the optimization software 222, for example, commercially available tools such as modeFRONTIER, Optimus, and Isight can also be used. For the optimization algorithm, for example, a general optimization algorithm that uses a global search method such as a genetic algorithm or a local search method such as a gradient method is used.

[0066] (2-2-1-5) Output section

[0067] The output unit 215 outputs the optimal operating condition of the device 10 corresponding to the minimum value of the objective function selected by the selection unit 214 to the user terminal 3. Alternatively, the output unit 215 also outputs the output of the distillation column model calculation using the optimal operating condition of the device 10, the output of the heat exchanger model calculation, the output of the vertical condenser overflow calculation, and the output of the cost calculation to the user terminal 3.

[0068] (2-2-2) User Terminal

[0069] The user terminal 3 is a general personal computer. The user terminal 3 has a processor such as a CPU and a GPU, and a storage device such as a RAM, a ROM, and a HDD. In addition, the user terminal 3 has a keyboard and a mouse for inputting information. In addition, the user terminal 3 has a display for displaying information. In addition, the user terminal 3 has a network interface device for connecting to the network NW. In addition, the user terminal 3 is installed with general application programs such as a WEB browser and a mail program.

[0070] The user accesses the server device 2 via the network NW from the user terminal 3 and inputs the specifications of the device 10 , etc. The user terminal 3 also displays the optimal operating conditions of the device 10 , etc. output by the server device 2 .

[0071] (3) Processing

[0072] use Figure 5 An example of the processing of the selection system 1 in this embodiment is described with reference to the flowchart.

[0073] As shown in step S1 , the selection system 1 allows the user to input the type of the device 10 through the user terminal 3 , and further input the search range of the constraint condition, the specification of the device 10 , and the operating condition of the device 10 according to the type of the device 10 .

[0074] When step S1 is finished, as shown in step S2 , the selected system 1 performs distillation column model calculation based on the operating conditions of the facility 10 selected from the search range and the specifications of the facility 10 .

[0075] When step S2 is finished, as shown in step S3 , the system 1 is selected to perform heat exchanger model calculation based on the output of the distillation column model calculation and the specifications of the equipment 10 .

[0076] When step S3 is finished, as shown in step S4, the selected system 1 performs vertical condenser overflow calculation based on the output of the distillation column model calculation and the specifications of the equipment 10. In addition, the selected system 1 may perform the heat exchanger model calculation of step S3 and the vertical condenser overflow calculation of step S4 in parallel.

[0077] When step S4 is finished, as shown in step S5, the selection system 1 determines whether the outputs of the distillation tower model calculation, the heat exchanger model calculation, and the vertical condenser overflow calculation satisfy the constraint conditions. If the constraint conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S6. If the constraint conditions are not satisfied, the process returns to step S2, and the selection system 1 performs the distillation tower model calculation, the heat exchanger model calculation, and the vertical condenser overflow calculation using the operating conditions of the device 10 newly selected from the search range.

[0078] When the process proceeds from step S5 to step S6 , the selection system 1 performs cost calculation of the facility 10 based on the output of the distillation column model calculation and the specifications of the facility 10 , and uses the output of the cost calculation as the value of the objective function.

[0079] When step S6 is ended, as shown in step S7, the selection system 1 inputs the operating conditions of the device 10 and the value of the objective function corresponding to the operating conditions into the optimization software 222, and the operating conditions of the device 10 within the search range in which the value of the expected objective function output from the optimization software 222 becomes smaller are selected as candidates for the new operating conditions of the device 10.

[0080] When step S7 is finished, as shown in step S8, the selection system 1 determines whether the operating conditions of the device 10 have been selected a predetermined number of times using the optimization software 222. If the operating conditions of the device 10 have been selected a predetermined number of times, the process proceeds to step S9. If the operating conditions of the device 10 have not been selected a predetermined number of times, the process returns to step S2, and the selection system 1 uses the operating conditions of the device 10 selected by the optimization software 222 to perform distillation column model calculation, heat exchanger model calculation, and vertical condenser overflow calculation.

[0081] When the process proceeds from step S8 to step S9 , the selection system 1 outputs the optimal operating conditions of the device 10 corresponding to the minimum value of the objective function to the user terminal 3 .

[0082] (4) Features

[0083] (4-1)

[0084] Conventionally, there is a technique in which a designer of equipment such as a distillation column selects the operating conditions of the equipment to produce a target product. In the case where an unskilled designer of the equipment selects the operating conditions of the equipment, in the conventional technique, there is a problem that it is difficult to select the operating conditions that reduce the variable cost of the equipment. In addition, there is a problem that even when a skilled designer of the equipment selects the operating conditions of the equipment, it is difficult to select the operating conditions that minimize the variable cost of the equipment.

[0085] The selection system 1 of the present embodiment selects the operating conditions of the equipment 10 with low cost including the variable cost of the equipment 10. The selection system 1 includes an input unit 211, a first operation unit 212, a second operation unit 213, and a selection unit 214. The input unit 211 inputs the constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10, the specifications of the products manufactured by the equipment 10, and the production volume of the products. The first operation unit 212 automatically performs a simulation of the operation of the equipment 10, and calculates candidates for the operating conditions that satisfy the constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10, the specifications of the products manufactured by the equipment 10, and the production volume of the products manufactured by the equipment 10. The second operation unit 213 calculates the variable cost when the operation is performed according to the candidate that is the result of the operation of the first operation unit 212. The selection unit 214 repeatedly performs the operation based on the first operation unit 212 and the operation based on the second operation unit 213. The selection unit 214 automatically compares the variable costs corresponding to a plurality of candidates, and selects a candidate for the operating condition with low variable cost, that is, the first operating condition, from the plurality of candidates.

[0086] In the selection system 1 of the present embodiment, the selection unit 214 repeatedly performs the calculation by the first calculation unit 212 and the calculation by the second calculation unit 213. The selection unit 214 automatically compares the variable costs corresponding to the plurality of candidates, and selects the first operating condition, which is a candidate for the operating condition with low variable costs, from the plurality of candidates. As a result, the selection system 1 can select the operating condition with low variable costs of the equipment 10 instead of an unskilled designer of the equipment 10. In addition, the selection system 1 can select the operating condition with the lowest variable costs of the equipment 10 instead of a skilled designer of the equipment 10.

[0087] (4-2)

[0088] In the selected system 1 of the present embodiment, the device 10 includes a distillation column 11 for refining a raw material to produce a product. The operating conditions of the device 10 include at least one of the number of stages of the distillation column 11, the operating pressure of the distillation column 11, the raw material feed section 14a of the distillation column 11, and the reflux amount of the distillation column 11.

[0089] (4-3)

[0090] In the selected system 1 of the present embodiment, the equipment 10 includes a distillation column 11 for refining a raw material, a reboiler 12 provided at the bottom 11b of the distillation column 11, and a condenser 13 provided at the top 11t of the distillation column 11. The variable cost of the equipment 10 includes the cost related to the raw material and the utility cost of the reboiler 12 and the condenser 13.

[0091] (4-4)

[0092] In the selection system 1 of the present embodiment, the cost is the variable cost of the existing equipment 10. The input unit 211 also allows the specification of the equipment 10 to be input.

[0093] (4-5)

[0094] In the selection system 1 of this embodiment, the input unit 211 inputs a plurality of input items regarding constraints on the operation of the facility 10, specifications of products manufactured by the facility 10, and production volume of products manufactured by the facility 10. The plurality of input items include required input items and optional input items.

[0095] (4-6)

[0096] In the selection system 1 of the present embodiment, the input unit 211 also inputs the type of the device 10. The input unit 211 changes the required input items for the constraints on the operation of the device 10 according to the input type of the device 10.

[0097] (4-7)

[0098] In the selection system 1 of the present embodiment, the selection unit 214 selects the first operating condition by updating the optimization algorithm of the operating condition of the facility 10 so as to reduce the variable cost of the facility 10 .

[0099] (5) Modification

[0100] (5-1) Modification 1A

[0101] In the present embodiment, the server device 2 performs the distillation tower model calculation. However, the server device 2 may also apply the simulation of the reaction process to the distillation tower model calculation. The simulation of the reaction process, for example, calculates the raw material feed conditions in the specifications of the equipment 10, which is one of the inputs of the distillation tower model calculation. In this case, the server device 2 selects the operating conditions of the equipment 10 so that the sum of the variable cost obtained from the output of the distillation tower model calculation and the variable cost obtained from the output of the simulation of the reaction process becomes the minimum.

[0102] Furthermore, the server device 2 may select the operating conditions of the reactor and the equipment 10 so that the total cost of the variable cost of the reactor and the variable cost of the fractionator 11 becomes the lowest.

[0103] (5-2) Modification 1B

[0104] In this embodiment, the server device 2 calculates the value of the objective function after determining whether the constraint condition is satisfied. However, the determination of whether the constraint condition is satisfied may be realized by including a term related to the constraint condition in the objective function.

[0105] Figure 6 : is a diagram showing an overview of the calculation process of the objective function in this modification. Figure 6As shown, the objective function is the sum of the cost of the device 10 and the terms related to the constraints. Figure 3 Differently, when the vertical condenser overflow calculation of process F3 is completed, as shown in process F4', the server device 2 performs cost calculation based on the output of the distillation tower model calculation and the specifications of the equipment 10. When the server device 2 completes the cost calculation, as shown in process F5', the output of the distillation tower model calculation, the heat exchanger model calculation, and the vertical condenser overflow calculation, and the constraints included in the input from the user terminal 3 are substituted into the items related to the constraints of the objective function, and the output of the cost calculation, that is, the cost of the equipment 10, is substituted into the objective function to calculate the value of the objective function.

[0106] The term related to the constraint is the sum of the following terms: the term indicating the constraint related to the overflow rate of the distillation tower 11 as the output of the distillation tower model calculation; the term indicating the constraint related to the maximum temperature of the distillation tower 11 as the output of the distillation tower model calculation; the term indicating the constraint related to the temperature of the bottom 11b of the distillation tower 11 as the output of the distillation tower model calculation; the term indicating the constraint related to the surplus rate of the heat transfer area of ​​the condenser 13 as the output of the heat exchanger model calculation; the term indicating the constraint related to the overflow rate of the condenser 13 as the output of the vertical condenser overflow calculation; the term indicating the constraint related to the specification of the product; and the term indicating the constraint related to the production volume of the product. Each term among the terms related to the constraint is configured such that the more each constraint is satisfied, the smaller the value of the term itself is. In other words, the more each term satisfies each constraint, the smaller the value of the objective function is. For example, the term representing the constraint condition related to the overflow rate of the distillation tower 11 is configured such that the value of the term becomes smaller as the overflow rate of the distillation tower 11, which is the output of the distillation tower model calculation, converges to a predetermined range. Selecting the operating condition of the device 10 that minimizes the objective function is equivalent to selecting the operating condition of the device 10 that satisfies the constraint condition and minimizes the cost of the device 10.

[0107] Figure 7 1 is a flowchart for explaining an example of processing of the selection system 1 in this modification. Figure 5 Differently, when step S4 is finished, as shown in step S5', the selected system 1 performs cost calculation of the equipment 10 based on the output of the distillation tower model calculation and the specifications of the equipment 10. After step S5' is finished, as shown in step S6', the selected system 1 substitutes the output of the distillation tower model calculation, the heat exchanger model calculation, the vertical condenser overflow calculation, and the cost calculation, and the constraints included in the input from the user terminal 3 into the objective function, and calculates the value of the objective function.

[0108] (5-3) Modification 1C

[0109] The device 10 can also produce the target product by purifying the raw material by extractive distillation. Hereinafter, the difference from the present embodiment will be mainly described. Except for the contents described in this modification, it is basically the same as the present embodiment.

[0110] Fig.12 1 is a schematic diagram of an apparatus 10 for refining raw materials by extractive distillation. Fig.12 As shown, the apparatus 10 mainly includes distillation columns 311, 312, reboilers 321, 322, condensers 331, 332, and a condenser 333 (extractant cooler).

[0111] A plurality of sections 341 and 342 are formed in the distillation towers 311 and 312. One of the plurality of sections 341 is a raw material feed section 341a for supplying a raw material into the distillation tower 311. In addition, one of the plurality of sections 341 is an extractant feed section 341b for supplying an extractant into the distillation tower 311. In addition, one of the plurality of sections 342 is a bottom effluent feed section 342a for supplying a bottom effluent flowing out of the distillation tower 311 into the distillation tower 312.

[0112] The reboiler 321 is provided at the bottom portion 311b of the fractionating column 311. The reboiler 321 heats the raw material and the extractant by exchanging heat between the raw material and the extractant and the heat medium.

[0113] The condenser 331 is provided at the tower top 311t of the distillation tower 311. The condenser 331 cools the vapor by exchanging heat between the heat medium and the raw material that has become vapor. The condenser 331 is a vertical condenser.

[0114] When the raw material is supplied to the raw material feed section 341a in the distillation tower 311, and the extractant is supplied to the extractant feed section 341b in the distillation tower 311, a part of the supplied raw material and extractant is accumulated in the tower bottom 311b, and the rest flows out from the tower bottom 311b. A part of the raw material and extractant flowing out from the tower bottom 311b flows into the tower bottom effluent feed section 342a in the distillation tower 312 as the tower bottom effluent, and the rest flows into the reboiler 321. The raw material and extractant flowing into the reboiler 321 are heated by the heat medium and become steam. The steam flows into the tower bottom 311b, rises while being in countercurrent contact with the raw material and the extractant, and flows out from the tower top 311t. The steam flowing out from the tower top 311t flows into the condenser 331. The steam flowing into the condenser 331 is cooled by the heat medium and becomes a condensate or an uncondensed gas, and flows out from the condenser 331. A portion of the condensate flowing out of the condenser 331 flows into the distillation tower 311 as reflux liquid, and the remaining portion is stored in the distillation tank 37 as distillate or uncondensed gas.

[0115] The reboiler 322 is provided at the bottom portion 312b of the fractionating column 312. The reboiler 322 heats the raw material and the extractant by exchanging heat between the raw material and the extractant and the heat medium.

[0116] The condenser 332 is provided at the tower top 312t of the fractionating tower 312. The condenser 332 cools the vapor by exchanging heat between the heat medium and the raw material converted into vapor.

[0117] When the bottom discharge liquid (raw material and extractant) flowing out of the distillation tower 311 is supplied to the bottom discharge liquid feed section 342a in the distillation tower 312, a part of the supplied raw material and extractant is accumulated in the bottom 312b of the tower, and the remaining part flows out from the bottom 312b of the tower. The extractant in the raw material and extractant flowing out of the bottom 312b of the tower is stored in the bottom discharge tank 39 as the bottom discharge liquid, and the raw material and extractant flow into the reboiler 322. The raw material and extractant flowing into the reboiler 322 are heated by the heat medium and become steam. The steam flows into the bottom 312b of the tower, rises while being in countercurrent contact with the raw material and extractant, and flows out from the top 312t of the tower. The steam flowing out of the top 312t of the tower flows into the condenser 332. The steam flowing into the condenser 332 is cooled by the heat medium to become a condensate or an uncondensed gas, and flows out from the condenser 332. A portion of the condensate flowing out of the condenser 332 flows into the distillation tower 312 as reflux liquid, and the remaining portion is stored in the distillation tank 38 as distillate or uncondensed gas.

[0118] The condenser 333 cools the extractant by exchanging heat between the heat medium and the extractant stored in the bottom discharge tank 39. The cooled extractant is supplied to the extractant feed section 341b in the distillation tower 311. In other words, the apparatus 10 supplies the extractant recovered from the distillation tower 312 to the distillation tower 311 to recycle the extractant.

[0119] (5-3-1) Input section

[0120] The input unit 211 allows the user to input constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10, which are related to the distillation columns 311 and 312, the reboilers 321 and 322, and the condensers 331 to 333, the specifications of the products manufactured by the equipment 10, and the production volume of the products manufactured by the equipment 10. In particular, the input unit 211 inputs the recovery purity of the extractant in the distillation column 312 and the recovery rate of the extractant in the distillation column 312 as constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10.

[0121] The input unit 211 allows the user to input specifications of the equipment 10 related to the distillation columns 311 and 312, the reboilers 321 and 322, and the condensers 331 to 333. In particular, the input unit 211 inputs the temperature of the extractant supplied to the extractant feed section 341b in the distillation column 311 as the specifications of the equipment 10.

[0122] In addition, the input unit 211 allows the user to input a search range of the operating conditions of the device 10 related to the distillation columns 311, 312, the reboilers 321, 322, and the condensers 331 to 333. The operating conditions of the device 10 further include at least one of the extractant feed section 341b of the distillation column 311 and the extractant flow rate of the distillation column 311. In addition, the operating conditions of the device 10 may further include the temperature of the extractant supplied to the extractant feed section 341b in the distillation column 311. In this case, as the specification of the device 10, the input unit 211 inputs the search range of the temperature of the extractant instead of inputting the temperature of the extractant.

[0123] Furthermore, the input unit 211 allows the user to input the type of the equipment 10 related to the fractionating columns 311 , 312 , the reboilers 321 , 322 , and the condensers 331 to 333 . Fig.13 1 is a diagram showing an example of the type of equipment 10 for purifying a raw material by extractive distillation. Fig.13 One type of device 10 is input into the two types of devices 10, Y1-A and Y1-B shown. In type Y1-A, raw materials and an extractant are supplied to the distillation tower 311, and impurities (uncondensed gas or distillate) and a bottom discharge liquid (product and extractant, etc.) are taken out from the distillation tower 311. The bottom discharge liquid taken out from the distillation tower 311 is supplied to the distillation tower 312, and products (uncondensed gas or distillate) and an extractant are taken out from the distillation tower 312. The (recovered) extractant taken out from the distillation tower 312 is cooled by the condenser 333 and supplied to the distillation tower 311 again. In type Y1-B, raw materials and an extractant are supplied to the distillation tower 311, and products (uncondensed gas or distillate) and a bottom discharge liquid (impurities and extractant, etc.) are taken out from the distillation tower 311. The bottom discharge liquid taken out from the distillation tower 311 is supplied to the distillation tower 312, and impurities (uncondensed gas or distillate) and the extractant are taken out from the distillation tower 312. The (recovered) extractant taken out from the distillation tower 312 is cooled by the condenser 333 and supplied to the distillation tower 311 again.

[0124] (5-3-2) First Operation Unit

[0125] The first operation unit 212 performs a distillation column model calculation for the distillation columns 311 and 312 based on the operating conditions of the device 10 selected from the search range and the specifications of the device 10 included in the input from the user terminal 3. After the distillation column model calculation is completed, the first operation unit 212 performs a heat exchanger model calculation for the reboilers 321 and 322 and the condensers 331 to 333 based on the output of the distillation column model calculation and the specifications of the device 10. After the heat exchanger model calculation is completed, the first operation unit 212 performs a vertical condenser overflow calculation for the condenser 331 based on the output of the distillation column model calculation and the specifications of the device 10. After the vertical condenser overflow calculation is completed, the first operation unit 212 determines whether the outputs of the distillation column model calculation, the heat exchanger model calculation, and the vertical condenser overflow calculation satisfy the constraints included in the input from the user terminal 3.

[0126] (5-3-3) Second Operation Unit

[0127] When the constraints are met, the second operation unit 213 calculates the cost of the equipment 10 based on the output of the distillation tower model calculation and the specifications of the equipment 10. The cost of the equipment 10 is the variable cost of the equipment 10. The variable cost also includes the cost related to the extractant and the utility cost of the condenser 333. For example, the variable cost is calculated by "annual raw material loss + annual extractant loss + annual consumption utility cost". The annual extractant loss is calculated by "limited cost of the extractant × loss flow rate of the extractant × annual operating time". The annual consumption utility cost is automatically calculated based on the heat calculation result calculated by the distillation tower model. The annual consumption utility cost includes the steam cost of the reboilers 321 and 322 consumed in one year, and the electricity cost of the condensers 331 to 333 consumed in one year.

[0128] (5-4)

[0129] As mentioned above, although the embodiment of this disclosure is described, it should be understood that various changes in form or detailed structure can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure described in the claims.

[0130] <Second Embodiment>

[0131] Hereinafter, the parts different from the first embodiment will be mainly described. Except for the contents described in this embodiment, it is basically the same as the first embodiment.

[0132] (1) Overall structure

[0133] In the first embodiment, the device 10 is an existing device. In the present embodiment, the device 10 is a newly installed device. In this case, the variables in the optimization problem include a part of the specifications of the device 10 (hereinafter, sometimes described as the specifications of the device 10) in addition to the operating conditions of the device 10. The specifications of the device 10 include the number of stages of the distillation tower 11, the tower diameter of the distillation tower 11, the filling length of the distillation tower 11, and the specifications of the filling material of the distillation tower 11 (hereinafter, the items obtained by removing the group of items constituting the specifications of the device 10 as a part of them from the group of items constituting the specifications of the device 10 are recorded as "specifications of the device 10").

[0134] (2) Detailed structure

[0135] (2-1) Equipment

[0136] The device 10 is a newly installed device.

[0137] (2-2) Select the system

[0138] (2-2-1) Server device

[0139] The server device 2 selects the operating conditions of the device 10 and the specification conditions of the device 10 that satisfy the prescribed constraints and minimize the cost of the device 10 based on the input from the user terminal 3. In other words, the server device 2 is a device for solving the following optimization problem: taking the cost of the device 10 as the objective function, the operating conditions of the device 10 and the specification conditions of the device 10 that satisfy the prescribed constraints and minimize the value of the objective function are selected.

[0140] Figure 8 : is a diagram showing an overview of the calculation process of the objective function in this embodiment. Figure 8 , the calculation process of the objective function is shown when the operating condition of the device 10 and the specification condition of the device 10 are respectively selected as variables in the optimization problem from the search range of the operating condition of the device 10 and the search range of the specification condition of the device 10.

[0141] The server device 2 performs FLASH calculation based on the specifications of the device 10 included in the input from the user terminal 3 as shown in process F11. After the FLASH calculation is completed, the server device 2 performs distillation column model calculation based on the operating conditions of the device 10 selected from the search range, the specification conditions of the device 10 selected from the search range, and the specifications of the device 10 included in the input from the user terminal 3 as shown in process F12. After the distillation column model calculation is completed, the server device 2 determines whether the output of the distillation column model calculation satisfies the constraint conditions included in the input from the user terminal 3 as shown in process F13. If the constraint conditions are satisfied, the server device 2 performs cost calculation based on the output of the distillation column model calculation, the specification conditions of the selected device 10, and the specifications of the device 10 as shown in process F14. After the cost calculation is completed, the server device 2 sets the output of the cost calculation to the value of the objective function corresponding to the operating conditions of the selected device 10 and the specification conditions of the device 10 as shown in process F15.

[0142] (2-2-1-1) Input section

[0143] The input unit 211 allows the user to input the type of device 10 via the user terminal 3, and then input constraints (constraints related to the operation of the device 10, specifications of the products manufactured by the device 10, production volume of the products manufactured by the device 10), specifications of the device 10, the search range of the operating conditions of the device 10, and the search range of the specification conditions of the device 10 according to the type of device 10.

[0144] (2-2-1-2) First Operation Unit

[0145] The first operation unit 212 automatically performs an operation simulation of the device 10, and calculates: candidates for the operation conditions of the device 10 that satisfy the constraints related to the operation of the device 10, the specifications of the products manufactured by the device 10, and the production volume of the products manufactured by the device 10; and candidates for the specification conditions of the device 10 that satisfy the constraints related to the operation of the device 10, the specifications of the products manufactured by the device 10, and the production volume of the products manufactured by the device 10.

[0146] First, the first operation unit 212 performs FLASH calculation. Specifically, the first operation unit 212 calculates the search range (equivalent to the search range of the operating pressure of the distillation tower 11) included in the operating conditions of the equipment 10 based on the raw material feed conditions included in the specifications of the equipment 10, etc. Figure 8 Process F11).

[0147] Next, the first operation unit 212 inputs the operating conditions of the device 10 selected from the search range, the specification conditions of the device 10 selected from the search range, and the specifications of the device 10 into the process simulator 221 to perform a distillation column model calculation (equivalent to Figure 8 Process F12).

[0148] Next, the first operation unit 212 determines whether the output of the distillation tower model calculation satisfies the constraint condition (equivalent to Figure 8 If the output of the distillation column model calculation does not satisfy the constraints, the first operation unit 212 performs the distillation column model calculation using the operating conditions of the device 10 newly selected from the search range and the specification conditions of the device 10 until the constraints are satisfied.

[0149] (2-2-1-3) Second Operation Unit

[0150] The second operation unit 213 performs cost calculation. The cost of the equipment 10 in this embodiment is the equipment introduction cost required for the introduction of the equipment 10 and the variable cost of the equipment 10. The second operation unit 213 calculates the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost (equivalent to the cost of the equipment 10) when the equipment 10 is operated according to the candidate as the calculation result of the first operation unit 212, based on the output of the distillation column model calculation, the specification conditions of the equipment 10, and the specifications of the equipment 10 by using a predetermined relationship. Figure 8 Process F14, F15).

[0151] The equipment introduction cost is calculated by "(cost of distillation tower 11 + cost of reboiler 12 + cost of condenser 13) ÷ number of years of depreciation of equipment 10". The cost of the distillation tower 11 is calculated based on the tower diameter of the distillation tower 11 and the filling length of the distillation tower 11, etc., and by a prescribed relationship. The cost of the reboiler 12 is calculated based on the heat exchange of the reboiler 12, etc., and by a prescribed relationship. The cost of the condenser 13 is calculated based on the heat exchange of the condenser 13, etc., and by a prescribed relationship. At this time, the tower diameter of the distillation tower 11 and the filling length of the distillation tower 11 are included in the specification conditions of the equipment 10. In addition, the heat exchange of the reboiler 12 and the heat exchange of the condenser 13 are included in the output of the distillation tower model calculation.

[0152] (2-2-1-4) Selected Department

[0153] The selection unit 214 repeatedly performs the calculation by the first calculation unit 212 and the calculation by the second calculation unit 213. The selection unit 214 automatically compares the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost corresponding to the plurality of candidates, and selects the second operating condition as a candidate for the operating condition and the first specification condition as a candidate for the specification condition, which has a lower total of the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost, from the plurality of candidates.

[0154] Specifically, the selection unit 214 inputs the operating conditions of the equipment 10 and the specification conditions of the equipment 10 (variables in the optimization problem) calculated by the first calculation unit 212, and the cost of the equipment 10 corresponding to the operating conditions and the specification conditions (objective function in the optimization problem) calculated by the second calculation unit 213 to the optimization software 222. The selection unit 214 selects the operating conditions of the equipment 10 and the specification conditions of the equipment 10 within the search range in which the value of the objective function can be expected to become smaller, which are output from the optimization software 222 each time the input is made to the optimization software 222, as candidates for new operating conditions of the equipment 10 and new specification conditions of the equipment 10.

[0155] (3) Processing

[0156] use Fig. 9 An example of the processing of the selection system 1 in this embodiment is described with reference to the flowchart.

[0157] As shown in step S11 , the selection system 1 allows the user to input the type of the device 10 through the user terminal 3 , and further input constraints, specifications of the device 10 , a search range of operating conditions of the device 10 , and a search range of specification conditions of the device 10 according to the type of the device 10 .

[0158] After completing step S11 , the selection system 1 performs FLASH calculation based on the specifications of the device 10 as shown in step S12 .

[0159] After step S12 is completed, as shown in step S13 , the selected system 1 performs distillation column model calculation based on the operating conditions of the facility 10 selected from the search range, the specification conditions of the facility 10 , and the specifications of the facility 10 .

[0160] After step S13 is completed, as shown in step S14, the selected system 1 determines whether the output of the distillation tower model calculation satisfies the constraint conditions. If the constraint conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S15. If the constraint conditions are not satisfied, the process returns to step S13, and the selected system 1 performs the distillation tower model calculation using the operating conditions of the device 10 newly selected from the search range and the specification conditions of the device 10.

[0161] When the selection system 1 proceeds from step S14 to step S15 , it calculates the cost of the facility 10 based on the output of the distillation column model calculation, the specification conditions of the selected facility 10 , and the specifications of the facility 10 , and uses the output of the cost calculation as the value of the objective function.

[0162] After completing step S15, as shown in step S16, the selection system 1 inputs the operating conditions of the device 10 and the specification conditions of the device 10, as well as the value of the objective function corresponding to the operating conditions and the specification conditions, into the optimization software 222, and selects the operating conditions of the device 10 and the specification conditions of the device 10 within the search range output from the optimization software 222, in which the value of the objective function can be expected to become smaller, as candidates for new operating conditions of the device 10 and new specification conditions of the device 10.

[0163] After step S16 is completed, as shown in step S17, the selection system 1 determines whether the operating conditions of the device 10 and the specification conditions of the device 10 have been selected a predetermined number of times using the optimization software 222. In the case where the operating conditions of the device 10 and the specification conditions of the device 10 have been selected a predetermined number of times, the process proceeds to step S18. In the case where the operating conditions of the device 10 and the specification conditions of the device 10 have not been selected a predetermined number of times, the process returns to step S13, and the selection system 1 uses the operating conditions of the device 10 and the specification conditions of the device 10 selected by the optimization software 222 to perform the distillation column model calculation.

[0164] After proceeding from step S17 to step S18 , the selection system 1 outputs the optimal operating conditions of the device 10 and the specification conditions of the device 10 corresponding to the minimum value of the objective function to the user terminal 3 .

[0165] (4) Features

[0166] (4-1)

[0167] In the selection system 1 of the present embodiment, the cost is the equipment introduction cost required for the introduction of the equipment 10 and the variable cost of the equipment 10. The first operation unit 212 automatically performs an operation simulation of the equipment 10 and calculates: candidates for operation conditions that satisfy the constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10, the specifications of the products manufactured by the equipment 10, and the production volume of the products manufactured by the equipment 10; and candidates for the specification conditions of the equipment 10 that satisfy the constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10, the specifications of the products manufactured by the equipment 10, and the production volume of the products manufactured by the equipment 10. The second operation unit 213 calculates the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost when the operation is performed according to the candidate as the calculation result of the first operation unit 212. The selection unit 214 repeatedly performs the calculation based on the first operation unit 212 and the calculation based on the second operation unit 213. The selection unit 214 automatically compares the facility introduction cost and the variable cost corresponding to the plurality of candidates, and selects the second operating condition as a candidate for the operating condition and the first specification condition as a candidate for the specification condition, which has a lower total of the facility introduction cost and the variable cost, from the plurality of candidates.

[0168] In the selection system 1 of the present embodiment, the selection unit 214 repeatedly performs the calculation by the first calculation unit 212 and the calculation by the second calculation unit 213. The selection unit 214 automatically compares the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost corresponding to the plurality of candidates, and selects the second operating condition as a candidate for the operating condition and the first specification condition as a candidate for the specification condition, which has a low total of the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost, from the plurality of candidates. As a result, the selection system 1 can select the operating condition and the specification condition such that the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost are reduced on behalf of an unskilled designer of the equipment 10. In addition, the selection system 1 can select the operating condition and the specification condition such that the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost are the lowest on behalf of a skilled designer of the equipment 10.

[0169] (5) Modification

[0170] (5-1) Modification 2A

[0171] In the present embodiment, the server device 2 performs the distillation tower model calculation. However, the server device 2 may also perform the simulation of the reaction process on the distillation tower model calculation. The simulation of the reaction process, for example, calculates the raw material feed conditions in the specifications of the equipment 10, which is one of the inputs of the distillation tower model calculation. In this case, the server device 2 selects the operating conditions of the equipment 10 such that the sum of the variable cost obtained from the output of the distillation tower model calculation and the variable cost obtained from the output of the simulation of the reaction process is minimized.

[0172] Furthermore, the server device 2 may select the operating conditions and specification conditions of the reactor and the equipment 10 so as to minimize the total cost of the reactor variable cost and equipment introduction cost and the distillation column 11 variable cost and equipment introduction cost.

[0173] (5-2) Modification 2B

[0174] In the present embodiment, the server device 2 calculates the value of the objective function after determining whether the constraint condition is satisfied. However, the determination of whether the constraint condition is satisfied may be realized by including a term related to the constraint condition in the objective function.

[0175] Fig.10 : is a diagram showing an overview of the calculation process of the objective function in this modification. Fig.10 As shown, the objective function is the sum of the cost of the device 10 and the terms related to the constraints. Figure 8Differently, when the server device 2 finishes the distillation tower model calculation of process F12, the server device 2 performs cost calculation based on the output of the distillation tower model calculation, the specification conditions of the equipment 10, and the specifications of the equipment 10 as shown in process F13'. After the server device 2 finishes the cost calculation, as shown in process F14', it substitutes the output of the distillation tower model calculation and the constraints included in the input from the user terminal 3 into the items related to the constraints of the objective function, and further substitutes the cost of the equipment 10 as the output of the cost calculation into the objective function to calculate the value of the objective function.

[0176] Fig.11 1 is a flowchart for explaining an example of processing of the selection system 1 in this modification. Fig. 9 Differently, after step S13 is completed, as shown in step S14', the selection system 1 performs cost calculation of the equipment 10 based on the output of the distillation column model calculation, the specification conditions of the selected equipment 10, and the specifications of the equipment 10. After step S14' is completed, as shown in step S15', the selection system 1 substitutes the output of the distillation column model calculation and the cost calculation, and the constraints included in the input from the user terminal 3 into the objective function, and calculates the value of the objective function.

[0177] (5-3) Modification 2C

[0178] The device 10 can purify the raw materials by extractive distillation to produce the target product. Hereinafter, the parts different from the present embodiment and the modified example 1C in the first embodiment will be mainly described. Except for the contents described in this modified example, it is basically the same as the present embodiment and the modified example 1C in the first embodiment.

[0179] (5-3-1) Input section

[0180] The input unit 211 allows the user to input constraints related to the distillation columns 311, 312, the reboilers 321, 322, and the condensers 331 to 333 (constraints related to the operation of the equipment 10, specifications of the products manufactured by the equipment 10, and the production volume of the products manufactured by the equipment 10), the specifications of the equipment 10, the search range of the operation conditions of the equipment 10, the search range of the specifications of the equipment 10, and the type of the equipment 10. In particular, the specifications of the equipment 10 include the number of stages of the distillation columns 311, 312, the tower diameters of the distillation columns 311, 312, the filling lengths of the distillation columns 311, 312, and the specifications of the filling materials of the distillation columns 311, 312.

[0181] (5-3-2) First Operation Unit

[0182] The first operation unit 212 performs FLASH calculation based on the specifications of the device 10. After the FLASH calculation is completed, the first operation unit 212 performs distillation column model calculation based on the operating conditions of the device 10 selected from the search range, the specification conditions of the device 10 selected from the search range, and the specifications of the device 10. After the distillation column model calculation is completed, the first operation unit 212 determines whether the output of the distillation column model calculation satisfies the constraint condition.

[0183] (5-3-3) Second Operation Unit

[0184] When the constraints are satisfied, the second operation unit 213 performs cost calculation based on the output of the distillation column model calculation, the specification conditions of the selected equipment 10, and the specifications of the equipment 10. The cost of the equipment 10 is the equipment introduction cost required for the introduction of the equipment 10 and the variable cost of the equipment 10. The equipment introduction cost is calculated by "(the cost of the distillation columns 311, 312 + the cost of the reboilers 321, 322 + the cost of the condensers 331 to 333) ÷ the number of years of depreciation of the equipment 10".

[0185] (5-4)

[0186] As mentioned above, although the embodiment of this disclosure is described, it should be understood that various changes in form and detailed structure can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure described in the claims.

[0187] Description of symbols

[0188] 1: Select the system;

[0189] 10: Equipment;

[0190] 11, 111, 112, 311, 312: distillation tower;

[0191] 11b, 311b, 312b: bottom of the tower;

[0192] 11t, 311t, 312t: tower top;

[0193] 12, 321, 322: reboiler (heater);

[0194] 13, 331, 332: condenser (cooler);

[0195] 14a, 341a: raw material feeding section;

[0196] 211: Input unit;

[0197] 212: 1st operation unit;

[0198] 213: 2nd operation unit;

[0199] 214: Selected Department;

[0200] 333: condenser (extractant cooler);

[0201] 341b: Extractant feeding section.

[0202] Prior art literature

[0203] Patent Literature

[0204] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-094938

Claims

1. A selection system (1) for selecting operating conditions of a device (10) with low cost including variable costs of the device, wherein: The selection system (1) comprises: an input unit (211) for inputting constraints related to the operation of the equipment, specifications of products manufactured by the equipment, and production volume of the products; a first calculation unit (212) for automatically performing a simulation of the operation of the equipment and calculating a candidate of an operation condition satisfying the constraint, the specification, and the production volume; a second calculation unit (213) for calculating the variable cost when the operation is performed according to the candidate which is the calculation result of the first calculation unit; and A selection unit (214) repeatedly performs calculations based on the first calculation unit and calculations based on the second calculation unit, automatically compares the variable costs corresponding to the plurality of candidates, and selects a first operating condition as a candidate for an operating condition with a low variable cost from among the plurality of candidates.

2. The selection system (1) according to claim 1, wherein: The equipment comprises a distillation column (11, 111, 112, 311, 312) for refining the raw material to produce the product. The operating conditions of the equipment include at least one of the number of stages of the distillation tower, the operating pressure, the raw material feed stage (14a, 341a) and the reflux rate.

3. The selection system (1) according to claim 2, wherein: The equipment refines the raw materials by extractive distillation. The operating conditions of the device further include at least one of the extractant feed section (341b) and the extractant flow rate of the distillation tower.

4. The selection system (1) according to claim 1, wherein: The equipment comprises: a distillation tower (11, 111, 112, 311, 312) for refining raw materials; a heater (12, 321, 322) arranged at the bottom (11b, 311b, 312b) of the distillation tower; and a cooler (13, 331, 332) arranged at the top (11t, 311t, 312t) of the distillation tower. The variable cost includes costs associated with raw materials and utility costs of the heater and the cooler.

5. The selection system (1) according to claim 4, wherein: The equipment refines the raw materials by extractive distillation. The apparatus further comprises an extractant cooler (333) for cooling the extractant. The variable fee also includes the costs associated with the extractant, and the utility costs of the extractant cooler.

6. The selection system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The cost is the change fee of the existing equipment. The input unit also inputs the specifications of the device.

7. The selection system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The cost is the equipment introduction cost required to introduce the equipment and the equipment change fee. The first computing unit automatically performs a simulation of the operation of the equipment and computes candidates for the operating conditions that satisfy the constraints, the specifications, and the production volume, and candidates for the specifications of the equipment that satisfy the constraints, the specifications, and the production volume. The second calculation unit calculates the equipment introduction cost and the variable cost when the operation is performed according to the candidate which is the calculation result of the first calculation unit. The selection unit repeatedly performs calculations based on the first operation unit and calculations based on the second operation unit, automatically compares the equipment introduction costs and the variable costs corresponding to the plurality of candidates, and selects a second operating condition as a candidate for an operating condition having a lower total of the equipment introduction cost and the variable costs and a first specification of the equipment as a candidate for a specification of the equipment from the plurality of candidates.

8. The selection system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The input unit inputs a plurality of input items for the constraints, the specifications, and the production volume, The plurality of input items include required input items and optional input items.

9. The selection system (1) according to claim 8, wherein: The input unit also inputs the type of the device. And according to the input type of the device, the required input items are changed according to the constraints.

10. The selection system (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: The selection unit selects the first operating condition using an optimization algorithm, wherein the optimization algorithm updates the operating condition so that the variable cost is reduced.

Images