Inference system, inference method and computer program

Abstract

To resume the operation of a wastewater treatment facility with a higher wastewater treatment capacity in a shorter period of time after a state in which activated sludge cannot be temporarily accumulated in the wastewater treatment facility is brought about.SOLUTION: An inference system comprises an inference unit that, based on an expected state which is a state expected for a state of activated sludge used in an activated sludge facility for wastewater treatment, after the activated sludge is stored in a storage facility different from the activated sludge facility, infers a storage condition in the storage facility required for realizing the expected state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an estimation system, an estimation method, and a computer program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, activated sludge has been used in wastewater treatment facilities to decompose organic matter contained in wastewater (see, for example, Patent Document 1). When repairs to wastewater treatment facilities are required, the activated sludge used in the facilities has been discarded as industrial waste. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-009663 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, because a period of time is required for activated sludge cultivation after repairs to wastewater treatment equipment, it takes time to resume operations after repairs. Furthermore, if operations are resumed before sufficient cultivation has occurred, the wastewater treatment capacity decreases, and the wastewater treatment flow rate must be reduced. During this period, there is a risk that some treatment involving wastewater (for example, factory operations) may be restricted. This problem is not limited to repairs, but is a common issue when it becomes temporarily impossible to store activated sludge in wastewater treatment equipment.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned circumstances, and provides a technology that enables the operation of a wastewater treatment facility to be resumed in a shorter period of time and with a higher wastewater treatment capacity after it has become temporarily impossible to store activated sludge in the facility. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is an estimation system that includes an estimation unit that estimates, based on an expected state that is an expected state of activated sludge used in an activated sludge facility for wastewater treatment after the activated sludge is stored in a storage facility different from the activated sludge facility, the storage conditions in the storage facility that are required to realize the expected state.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is the above-mentioned estimation system, further comprising an estimation model memory unit that stores an estimation model, which is information indicating the relationship between the storage conditions and the state obtained based on the state of the activated sludge after actually storing it under multiple storage conditions, and the estimation unit uses the estimation model to estimate the storage conditions required to realize the expected state.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is the estimation system, wherein the estimation model is information indicating a relationship between at least a value related to TOC and a storage period.

[0009] In one aspect of the present invention, the estimation system further includes a cost calculation unit that calculates the cost required to realize the storage conditions estimated by the estimation unit.

[0010] One aspect of the present invention is an estimation method including an estimation step of estimating, based on an expected state that is an expected state of activated sludge used in an activated sludge facility for wastewater treatment after the activated sludge is stored in a storage facility separate from the activated sludge facility, storage conditions in the storage facility that are required to realize the expected state.

[0011] One aspect of the present invention is a computer program for causing a computer to function as the above-mentioned estimation system, which includes an estimation unit that estimates, based on an expected state that is an expected state of activated sludge used in an activated sludge facility for wastewater treatment after the activated sludge is stored in a storage facility different from the activated sludge facility, the storage conditions in the storage facility that are required to realize the expected state. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, after it becomes temporarily impossible to accumulate activated sludge in the wastewater treatment facility, it becomes possible to resume operation of the wastewater treatment facility in a shorter period of time and with a higher wastewater treatment capacity. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the system configuration of a management system 100 according to the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a schematic block diagram showing a specific example of the functional configuration of a learning device 40. FIG. [Figure 3] 10 is a flowchart showing a specific example of processing by the learning device 40. [Figure 4] 2 is a schematic block diagram showing a specific example of the functional configuration of the temporary facility control device 50. FIG. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing a specific example of part of the processing of the temporary facility control device 50. [Figure 6] 2 is a schematic block diagram showing a specific example of the functional configuration of a terminal device 60. FIG. [Figure 7] 1 is a flowchart showing a specific example of activated sludge storage treatment using the management system 100. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an outline of an example of the hardware configuration of an information processing device 90 applied to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a modified example of the temporary facility control device 50 configured in this manner. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] [Summary] First, an overview of the present technology will be described. First, when it becomes temporarily impossible to store activated sludge in the activated sludge equipment of a wastewater treatment facility due to repairs or other reasons, the state of the activated sludge in that wastewater treatment facility (hereinafter referred to as the "target facility") is confirmed, and an activated sludge storage test is performed. More specifically, for example, the following two processes may be performed. The first is a process of measuring the current state of the activated sludge and acquiring information indicating the state. The second is a process of measuring information indicating the state of the activated sludge (e.g., the degree of activity) after storing the activated sludge for a predetermined period of time without load in equipment other than the target facility (e.g., a test facility or temporary facility described below). The above-mentioned equipment other than the target facility includes a tank for storing activated sludge and an aeration device for feeding air into the activated sludge in the tank.

[0015] Next, information about storage is estimated (estimated) based on information such as the current measurement results and the amount of activated sludge to be stored. Information about storage indicates, for example, the type and quantity of equipment required for storage, the area of ​​land required for storage, the storage process, etc. These estimated results are presented to the manager of the facility in question.

[0016] Next, when the start of actual storage of activated sludge approaches (when the period until storage begins has reached a predetermined length), the two test processes described above are carried out again. Based on the results and information such as the volume of activated sludge to be stored, the construction guidelines for temporary facilities and the resources required for construction of the temporary facilities (e.g., personnel, equipment, consumables) are estimated, and the costs (expenses) are estimated based on the estimated results. These estimated results are presented to the manager of the target facility.

[0017] Next, just before the start of actual activated sludge storage, the two test processes described above are carried out. Based on the results of the test processes, the state of the activated sludge when it is returned from the temporary facility to the target facility is assumed, and the storage conditions that should be achieved in the temporary facility to bring the activated sludge to that state at that time are estimated.

[0018] Temporary facilities (such as temporary tanks, piping, and other equipment) are installed, and the activated sludge stored in the tanks of the target facility is transferred to the temporary facilities. While stored in the temporary facilities, aeration treatment is carried out as appropriate. In addition, the two test treatments mentioned above are carried out, and the storage conditions that should be achieved in the temporary facility are estimated and implemented. When it is time to return the activated sludge, the activated sludge is returned and the temporary facilities are dismantled. The destination of the activated sludge does not necessarily have to be the same as the target facility, and it may be transferred to wastewater treatment equipment installed in a different location.

[0019] By carrying out this series of processes, even if it becomes impossible to temporarily store activated sludge in the target equipment due to repairs or other reasons, by storing the activated sludge in temporary equipment, it will be possible to resume wastewater treatment in the target equipment or a new equipment to replace it, with higher wastewater treatment capacity and in a shorter period of time.

[0020] In particular, rather than simply storing activated sludge in temporary facilities, test processing is performed and the storage conditions that should be achieved in the temporary facilities are estimated based on the results, and control is carried out according to the storage conditions, making it possible to prevent the performance of the activated sludge from deteriorating while it is stored in temporary facilities.

[0021] [detail] Next, the present technology will be described in detail. Fig. 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the system configuration of a management system 100 of the present invention. Devices or facilities related to the management system 100 include wastewater treatment facility 11, test facility 12, temporary facility 13, first sensor system 21, second sensor system 22, third sensor system 23, data management device 30, learning device 40, temporary facility control device 50, and terminal device 60. The management system 100 includes, for example, the first sensor system 21, the second sensor system 22, the third sensor system 23, the data management device 30, the learning device 40, the temporary facility control device 50, and the terminal device 60. The temporary facility control device 50 estimates information about the facility of the temporary facility 13 (hereinafter referred to as "temporary facility information") and information indicating the storage conditions of the activated sludge in the temporary facility 13 (storage condition information) based on information about activated sludge acquired by the first sensor system 21 to the third sensor system 23 (hereinafter referred to as "activated sludge information"). The temporary facility control device 50 outputs temporary facility information based on the estimation result, and controls the temporary facility 13 based on the storage condition information. For example, the temporary facility control device 50 may output the temporary facility information to the terminal device 60. The temporary facility control device 50 may output the storage condition information to the terminal device 60.

[0022] The first sensor system 21, the second sensor system 22, the third sensor system 23, and the data management device 30 are communicably connected via a network 70. The learning device 40 and the temporary equipment control device 50 may be communicably connected via the network 70. The data management device 30, the temporary equipment control device 50, and the terminal device 60 are communicably connected via the network 70. The temporary equipment 13 and the temporary equipment control device 50 are communicably connected via the network 70. The network 70 may be a network using wireless communication or a network using wired communication. The network 70 may be configured using, for example, the Internet, or may be configured using a local area network (LAN). The network 70 may be configured by combining multiple networks. Note that the networks used for communication between the devices do not need to be the same network.

[0023] The wastewater treatment facility 11 treats specified water as the treatment target (hereinafter referred to as "water to be treated") and performs wastewater treatment on the target water. The wastewater treatment facility 11 uses activated sludge when performing wastewater treatment. The target water may be any water. For example, the target water may be water discharged from a specified factory or plant, or water discharged from one or more residences. The wastewater treatment facility 11 is a specific example of target equipment (equipment in which it becomes temporarily impossible to store activated sludge in the wastewater treatment facility due to repairs or other reasons).

[0024] The testing facility 12 is a facility for conducting tests on the activated sludge used in the wastewater treatment facility 11. Such tests may be performed, for example, before the activated sludge begins to be stored in the temporary facility 13. However, tests using the testing facility 12 may also be performed after the activated sludge begins to be stored in the temporary facility 13. The testing facility 12 is a facility for, for example, checking the condition of the activated sludge and conducting storage tests on the activated sludge. To enable such tests to be performed, the testing facility 12 includes a tank for storing the activated sludge and an aeration device for feeding air into the activated sludge in the tank.

[0025] For example, the following two test processes may be performed in the test facility 12. The first is a process of collecting activated sludge from the aeration tank of the target facility, measuring the current state of the activated sludge, and obtaining information indicating the state. The second is a process of measuring information indicating the state of the activated sludge (for example, the degree of activity) after storing the activated sludge in temporary facility without load for a predetermined period of time. The test facility 12 is a facility separate from the target facility, and is a facility for temporarily storing activated sludge for a predetermined period of time. The test facility 12 includes a tank for storing the activated sludge to be tested, and an aeration device for supplying air to the activated sludge in the tank.

[0026] The temporary facility 13 is a facility for storing activated sludge used in the wastewater treatment facility 11. The temporary facility 13 stores activated sludge that was used in the wastewater treatment facility 11, which is the target facility. The temporary facility 13 is equipped with devices for maintaining the stored activated sludge in good condition. These devices operate under the control of the temporary facility control device 50. For example, the temporary facility 13 is equipped with a tank for storing activated sludge and an aeration device for sending air into the activated sludge in the tank.

[0027] Furthermore, for example, an operation to check the state of activated sludge and an operation to measure the state of stored activated sludge may be performed in the temporary facility 13. For example, the above-mentioned two test processes may be performed in the temporary facility 13.

[0028] The first sensor system 21 is provided in the wastewater treatment facility 11. The first sensor system 21 includes one or more sensors. The sensors included in the first sensor system 21 acquire at least information about activated sludge. For example, the first sensor system 21 acquires information about the activity of the activated sludge. Specifically, the first sensor system 21 may be a sensor that measures TOC (total organic carbon concentration). In this case, a value related to TOC may be used as the information about the activated sludge. For example, by comparing TOC values ​​obtained at predetermined time intervals, a TOC removal rate (TOC removal speed) for each time interval may be calculated, and the TOC removal rate may be used as the information about the activated sludge. Instead of the TOC removal rate, the TOC removal amount may be acquired as the information about the activated sludge. The TOC removal amount is defined, for example, as the amount obtained by multiplying the inflow amount into the wastewater treatment facility 11 for each time interval by the difference in TOC between the inflow and outflow of the wastewater treatment facility 11. Furthermore, the information about activated sludge measured and acquired by the first sensor system 21 is not limited to values ​​related to TOC, but may be one or more of TOC, CODcr, CODMn, and BOD. The first sensor system 21 may also acquire information about the flow rate of influent water and the flow rate of effluent water in the wastewater treatment facility 11, and the water quality (e.g., COD, pH, etc.) of the water to be treated in each device in the facility. The first sensor system 21 transmits the acquired information to the data management device 30. This information is recorded and managed by the data management device 30.

[0029] The second sensor system 22 is provided in the test facility 12. The second sensor system 22 includes one or more sensors. The sensors included in the second sensor system 22 acquire information about at least the activated sludge. For example, the second sensor system 22 acquires information about the activity of the activated sludge. The information about the activity of the activated sludge may be the same as the information acquired by the first sensor system 21 described above. The second sensor system 22 transmits the acquired information to the data management device 30. The information is recorded and managed by the data management device 30.

[0030] The third sensor system 23 is provided in the temporary facility 13. The third sensor system 23 includes one or more sensors. The sensors included in the third sensor system 23 acquire at least information related to activated sludge. For example, the third sensor system 23 acquires information related to the activity of the activated sludge. The information related to the activity of the activated sludge may be the same as the information acquired by the first sensor system 21 described above. The third sensor system 23 transmits the acquired information to the data management device 30. The information is recorded and managed by the data management device 30.

[0031] The data management device 30 is configured using an information processing device such as a personal computer or a server device. The data management device 30 receives information from each sensor system (first sensor system 21 to third sensor system 23) via the network 70. The data management device 30 records the received information in a storage device provided in the device itself. When information is requested by another device (for example, the temporary equipment control device 50), the data management device 30 reads the requested information from the storage device and transmits it.

[0032] The learning device 40 generates a trained model as an estimation model to be used in the temporary facility control device 50. The learning device 40 generates the trained model by performing a learning process using, for example, a dataset of training data prepared in advance.

[0033] The temporary facility control device 50 estimates information related to temporary storage in the temporary facility 13 based on information related to the activated sludge temporarily stored in the temporary facility 13. Specific examples of such information include information related to the equipment required for storage, information related to the cost of storing the activated sludge in the temporary facility 13, estimated information on the state of the activated sludge after storage in the temporary facility 13, and control information for the equipment provided in the temporary facility 13. The temporary facility control device 50 transmits the estimated results of this information to the terminal device 60 and controls the equipment of the temporary facility 13 based on the estimated results.

[0034] The terminal device 60 receives input from the user regarding information relating to the activated sludge to be stored, and transmits the received information to the temporary facility control device 50. Upon receiving information from the temporary facility control device 50, the terminal device 60 outputs the received information.

[0035] 2 is a schematic block diagram showing a specific example of the functional configuration of learning device 40. Learning device 40 is configured using an information processing device such as a personal computer or a server device. Learning device 40 includes a communication unit 41, a storage unit 42, and a control unit 43.

[0036] The communication unit 41 is a communication device. The communication unit 41 may be configured as, for example, a network interface. The communication unit 41 communicates data with other devices via the network 70 in accordance with the control of the control unit 43. The communication unit 41 may be a device that performs wireless communication or a device that performs wired communication.

[0037] The storage unit 42 is configured using a storage device such as a magnetic hard disk drive or a semiconductor storage device. The storage unit 42 stores data used by the control unit 43. The storage unit 42 may function as, for example, a teacher data storage unit 421 and a trained model storage unit 422.

[0038] The training data storage unit 421 stores training data used in the learning process executed by the learning device 40. The first training data stored in the training data storage unit 421 includes information about the state of the wastewater treatment facility 11 acquired in the target facility (hereinafter referred to as "current status information") and information indicating the facilities required for storage for each piece of current status information (hereinafter referred to as "facility information"). The current status information is used as an explanatory variable, and the facility information is used as a target variable. The current status information may include, for example, information acquired by the first sensor system 21 in the wastewater treatment facility 11. The current status information may include, for example, information about the activated sludge in the wastewater treatment facility 11 (e.g., TOC removal rate or TOC removal amount), the flow rate of influent water and the flow rate of effluent water in the wastewater treatment facility 11, and information about the quality of the water to be treated in each device in the facility (e.g., COD, pH, etc.). The activated sludge label information includes, for example, the type and number of aeration devices required for storage and information about the storage tank.

[0039] The second training data stored in the training data storage unit 421 includes information (hereinafter referred to as "storage condition information") indicating the conditions (hereinafter referred to as "storage conditions") for storing activated sludge in the temporary facility 13, information indicating the state of the activated sludge before storage (hereinafter referred to as "current sludge information"), and information (activated sludge information) indicating the state of the activated sludge after storage under each storage condition. The storage condition information and current sludge information are used as explanatory variables, and the activated sludge information is used as the objective variable. The storage conditions are information indicating storage conditions such as the storage period, the aeration amount per unit time, and the type and amount of nutrients (food for the microorganisms in the activated sludge) added to the activated sludge.

[0040] The third training data stored in the training data storage unit 421 includes information indicating the storage period for storing activated sludge in the temporary facility 13, the expected state of the activated sludge after storage (hereinafter referred to as the "expected state"), and storage condition information indicating the storage conditions required to obtain activated sludge indicated by the expected state. Of these, the information indicating the storage period and the activated sludge information corresponding to the expected state are used as explanatory variables, and the storage condition information is used as a target variable.

[0041] The trained model storage unit 422 stores trained models obtained by a learning process using the teacher data stored in the teacher data storage unit 421. The trained model storage unit 422 stores a first trained model obtained by a learning process using the first teacher data, a second trained model obtained by a learning process using the second teacher data, and a third trained model obtained by a learning process using the third teacher data.

[0042] The control unit 43 is configured using a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a memory (main storage device). The control unit 43 functions when the processor executes a program. Note that all or part of the functions of the control unit 43 may be realized using hardware such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a PLD (Programmable Logic Device), or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The program may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Examples of computer-readable recording media include portable media such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, a CD-ROM, and a semiconductor storage device (e.g., an SSD: Solid State Drive), as well as storage devices such as a hard disk or semiconductor storage device built into a computer system. The program may be transmitted via a telecommunications line.

[0043] The information control unit 431 controls the input and output of information. For example, the information control unit 431 acquires training data from other devices (information processing devices or storage media) and records the training data in the training data storage unit 421. For example, the information control unit 431 transmits the trained model stored in the trained model storage unit 422 to other devices (for example, the temporary facility control device 50).

[0044] The learning control unit 432 performs a learning process using the training data stored in the training data storage unit 421. Specific examples of such learning processes include supervised learning for classification, such as support vector machines, random forests, and neural networks. The learning control unit 433 generates a first trained model for outputting facility information based on input current status information, for example, by performing supervised learning using first training data. The learning control unit 433 generates a second trained model for outputting activated sludge information based on input storage condition information and current sludge information, for example, by performing supervised learning using second training data. The learning control unit 433 generates a trained model for outputting storage condition information based on input information indicating a storage period and activated sludge information, for example, by performing supervised learning using third training data. The learning control unit 432 records the generated trained model in the trained model storage unit 422. The trained model obtained by the learning control unit 432 may be transmitted to the temporary equipment control device 50 and recorded in the estimation model storage unit 521 of the temporary equipment control device 50.

[0045] 3 is a flowchart showing a specific example of processing by the learning device 40. First, the information control unit 431 acquires training data (step S101). The training data may be input by a user, acquired via communication from another information device, or acquired from a recording medium connected to the learning device 40, for example. The learning control unit 432 executes a learning process using the training data and records a trained model in the trained model storage unit 422 (step S102).

[0046] 4 is a schematic block diagram showing a specific example of the functional configuration of the temporary facility control device 50. The temporary facility control device 50 is configured using an information processing device such as a personal computer or a server device. The temporary facility control device 50 includes a communication unit 51, a storage unit 52, and a control unit 53.

[0047] The communication unit 51 is a communication device. The communication unit 51 may be configured as, for example, a network interface. The communication unit 51 communicates data with other devices via the network 70 in accordance with the control of the control unit 53. The communication unit 51 may be a device that performs wireless communication or a device that performs wired communication.

[0048] The storage unit 52 is configured using a storage device such as a magnetic hard disk drive or a semiconductor storage device. The storage unit 52 stores data used by the control unit 53. The storage unit 52 may function as, for example, an estimation model storage unit 521, an equipment price information storage unit 522, and a storage condition information storage unit 523.

[0049] The estimation model storage unit 521 stores an estimation model used by the estimation unit 532 when performing the estimation process. The estimation model may be configured using information on a trained model previously generated by a learning process, for example. Such a learning process may be executed by another device (e.g., the learning device 40) or by the device itself (the temporary equipment control device 50). The estimation model does not necessarily have to be generated by a learning process. The estimation model may be configured using, for example, a lookup table correlating current status information with equipment information, a lookup table correlating storage condition information, current status sludge information with activated sludge information, or a lookup table correlating a combination of storage period and activated sludge information with storage condition information. The estimation model may also be information indicating the relationship between at least a value related to TOC (such as a TOC removal rate or TOC removal amount) and a storage period. The estimation model may also be information indicating the relationship between at least a value related to TOC (such as a TOC removal rate or TOC removal amount) and a storage period for each storage condition. Each lookup table associates explanatory variables with response variables obtained according to the explanatory variables.

[0050] The equipment price information storage unit 522 stores information (equipment price information) relating to the price of each device applicable to the temporary equipment 13. The storage condition information storage unit 523 stores information (storage condition information) indicating the storage conditions in the temporary equipment 13 that is the control target.

[0051] The control unit 53 is configured using a processor such as a CPU and a memory. The control unit 53 functions as an information control unit 531, an estimation unit 532, and an equipment control unit 533 by the processor executing a program. All or part of the functions of the control unit 53 may be realized using hardware such as an ASIC, PLD, or FPGA. The above program may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Examples of computer-readable recording media include portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, CD-ROMs, and semiconductor storage devices (e.g., SSDs), and storage devices such as hard disks and semiconductor storage devices built into a computer system. The above program may be transmitted via a telecommunications line.

[0052] The information control unit 531 acquires input information corresponding to explanatory variables used for estimation from another device such as the terminal device 60. The information control unit 531 transmits information indicating the estimation result obtained by the estimation unit 532 regarding the input information to the other device such as the terminal device 60. When the information control unit 531 receives storage condition information from the terminal device 60, it records the received storage condition information in the storage condition information storage unit 523. In addition to the specific examples given above, the information control unit 531 also performs processing to receive information from another device and processing to transmit information to another device. Such exchange of information between the information control unit 531 and another device may be performed by communication using the communication unit 51, for example.

[0053] The estimation unit 532 performs estimation processing using the input information and an estimation model (using the input information as an explanatory variable) corresponding to the input information among the estimation models stored in the estimation model storage unit 521. The estimation processing estimates output information corresponding to a target variable corresponding to the input information. For example, based on the input current status information, the estimation unit 532 estimates equipment information required to store activated sludge in the wastewater treatment facility 11 in the state indicated by the current status information. For example, based on the input storage condition information (including the storage period) and current status sludge information, the estimation unit 532 estimates activated sludge information indicating the state of activated sludge indicated by the current status sludge information after being stored under the storage conditions indicated by the storage condition information. For example, based on the input information indicating the storage period and the activated sludge information, the estimation unit 532 estimates storage condition information indicating the storage conditions required to change the state of activated sludge obtained after storage for the storage period to the state indicated by the activated sludge information.

[0054] The equipment control unit 533 controls the temporary equipment 13 to be controlled in accordance with the storage conditions stored in the storage condition information storage unit 523. For example, the equipment control unit 533 may control the aeration device of the temporary equipment 13 so as to achieve the aeration volume per unit time in accordance with the storage conditions. The storage condition information may include specific control content of the control to be executed by the equipment control unit 533. If the storage condition information does not include specific control content, the storage unit 52 may store a table that associates the storage conditions indicated by the storage condition information with specific control content required to achieve the storage conditions. In this case, the equipment control unit 533 estimates the specific control content based on the storage condition information and the table, and controls the temporary equipment 13.

[0055] 5 is a flowchart showing a specific example of part of the processing of the temporary facility control device 50. First, the information control unit 531 acquires input information from the terminal device 60 (step S201). The estimation unit 532 performs estimation processing using at least the input information and an estimation model (step S202). The estimation unit 532 transmits information indicating the estimation result to the terminal device 60 (step S203).

[0056] 6 is a schematic block diagram showing a specific example of the functional configuration of terminal device 60. Terminal device 60 is configured using information equipment such as a smartphone, tablet, personal computer, dedicated device, etc. Terminal device 60 includes a communication unit 61, an input unit 62, an output unit 63, a storage unit 64, and a control unit 65.

[0057] The communication unit 61 is a communication device. The communication unit 61 may be configured as, for example, a network interface. The communication unit 61 communicates data with other devices via the network 70 in accordance with the control of the control unit 65. The communication unit 61 may be a device that performs wireless communication or a device that performs wired communication.

[0058] The input unit 62 is configured using existing input devices such as a keyboard, a pointing device (mouse, tablet, etc.), buttons, a touch panel, etc. The input unit 62 is operated by a user when inputting user instructions to the terminal device 60. The input unit 62 may be an interface for connecting the input device to the terminal device 60. In this case, the input unit 62 inputs an input signal generated in the input device in response to a user input to the terminal device 60. The input unit 62 may be configured using a microphone and a voice recognition device. In this case, the input unit 62 performs voice recognition on words spoken by the user and inputs character string information of the recognition result to the terminal device 60. The input unit 62 may be configured in any way as long as it is capable of inputting user instructions to the terminal device 60.

[0059] The output unit 63 outputs information in a form that can be recognized by the user. The output unit 63 may be, for example, an image display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. The output unit 63 may be an interface for connecting an image display device to the terminal device 60. In this case, the output unit 63 generates a video signal for displaying image data and outputs the video signal to the image display device connected to the output unit 63. The output unit 63 may be a device for outputting sound, such as a speaker. The output unit 63 may be an interface for connecting an audio output device, such as a speaker or headphones, to the terminal device 60. In this case, the output unit 63 generates an audio signal for reproducing audio data and outputs the audio signal to the audio output device connected to the output unit 63. The output unit 63 may be configured as a touch panel integrated with the input unit 62.

[0060] The storage unit 64 is configured using a storage device such as a magnetic hard disk drive or a semiconductor storage device. The storage unit 64 stores data used by the control unit 65. The storage unit 64 stores data required when the control unit 65 performs processing.

[0061] The control unit 65 is configured using a processor such as a CPU and a memory. The control unit 65 functions when the processor executes a program. All or part of the functions of the control unit 65 may be realized using hardware such as an ASIC, PLD, or FPGA. The program may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium. Examples of computer-readable recording media include portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, CD-ROMs, and semiconductor storage devices (e.g., SSDs), as well as storage devices such as hard disks and semiconductor storage devices built into computer systems. The program may be transmitted via a telecommunications line.

[0062] The control unit 65 may execute, for example, an application installed on its own device (terminal device 60). A specific example of such an application is an application provided to the terminal device 60 as a dedicated application for the management system 100. Another specific example of such an application is a web browser application. Such an application may be pre-installed on the terminal device 60, or may be downloaded each time an estimation process is executed. For example, when implemented as a web browser application, the terminal device 60 may download and execute the application from a device specified by a specific web server (for example, the web server itself or another server) in response to the terminal device 60 connecting to the web server. The control unit 65 operates according to the program of the application being executed.

[0063] The control unit 65 controls the terminal device 60 in response to user operations and information received from the temporary facility control device 50. For example, the control unit 65 transmits information input by the user operating the input unit 62 to the temporary facility control device 50 by using the communication unit 61. For example, when information transmitted from the temporary facility control device 50 is received by the communication unit 61 via the network 70, the control unit 65 generates screen data based on the received information and causes the output unit 63 to display the screen data. Such screen data includes images and text indicating the information transmitted from the temporary facility control device 50. For example, when information transmitted from the temporary facility control device 50 is received by the communication unit 61 via the network 70, the control unit 65 generates audio data based on the received information and causes the output unit 63 to output the audio data.

[0064] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing a specific example of activated sludge storage processing using the management system 100. First, the state of activated sludge in the wastewater treatment facility 11 corresponding to the target facility is confirmed (step S301). This confirmation may be performed, for example, by manually inspecting the activated sludge, or may be performed using information obtained by the first sensor system 21. Specifically, the activated sludge accumulated in the aeration tank or settling tank of the target facility is the target of processing. The information may be obtained from the first sensor system 21, which acquires information about the aeration tank or settling tank. Alternatively, the activated sludge in the aeration tank or settling tank of the target facility is stored in the test facility 12 without load for a predetermined period of time. Information indicating the state of the activated sludge after storage is then measured. This information may be obtained by the second sensor system 22 provided in the test facility 12, or may be obtained by manually inspecting the activated sludge. In the case of manual inspection, the obtained information may be input into the terminal device 60 and transmitted to the temporary facility control device 50.

[0065] Next, a rough treatment plan is presented (step S302). The rough treatment plan indicates, for example, the equipment required for storing activated sludge using the temporary facility 13 and an estimate of the costs required for storage. For example, the facility information may be estimated by using the current situation information obtained by the processing of step S301 and the first trained model. Alternatively, the facility information may be estimated manually based on the current situation information. In this case, the facility information may be input to the terminal device 60, and the facility information may be transmitted from the terminal device 60 to the temporary facility control device 50. The control unit 53 of the temporary facility control device 50 calculates the costs required to realize storage using the facility indicated by the facility information, based on the obtained facility information and the information recorded in the facility price information storage unit 522. For example, a rough treatment plan may be created that includes the facility information and costs obtained by the above processing. The created rough treatment plan is presented to the manager of the wastewater treatment facility 11. For example, the data on the rough processing plan may be sent from the temporary equipment control device 50 to the administrator's email address, or the data on the rough processing plan may be sent from the temporary equipment control device 50 to the terminal device 60, and the information output (displayed or printed) from the terminal device 60 may be presented to the administrator.

[0066] Next, when the start of actual activated sludge storage approaches (when the period until the start of storage reaches a predetermined length), an activated sludge storage test is performed (step S303). Such a test may be performed, for example, by performing a process similar to that of step S301 described above. Furthermore, the test may be performed in more detail than that of step S301 described above. For example, multiple types of storage conditions may be set, activated sludge may be stored under each storage condition, and the state of the activated sludge after storage may be obtained for each storage condition. Furthermore, such a test may be performed virtually. Specifically, as follows: multiple storage conditions may be set, and the temporary equipment control device 50 may use an estimation model to estimate what state the activated sludge will be in after storage if the activated sludge in the state indicated by the current sludge information is stored under each storage condition. For example, based on multiple storage condition information and current sludge information, an estimation model using these as explanatory variables may be used to estimate activated sludge information corresponding to the objective variable for each storage condition information.

[0067] Next, the construction procedure and costs are presented to the manager of the wastewater treatment facility 11 (step S304). The construction procedure and costs presented in step S304 are more accurate information than the rough treatment plan presented in step S302. That is, the construction procedure (equipment information) is estimated based on the results of the test performed in step S303, and the cost is estimated based on the estimated equipment information. There are several modes for estimating the equipment information, for example, as follows, and any mode may be adopted.

[0068] In the first aspect, first, the state (expected state) expected for the activated sludge after storage in the temporary facility 13 is determined. Next, in step S303, activated sludge information obtained from the results of tests actually conducted under a plurality of storage conditions is selected that is closest to the expected state. Then, facility information required to realize in the temporary facility 13 the storage conditions in the test under which the selected activated sludge information was obtained is estimated.

[0069] In the second aspect, first, a state (expected state) expected for the activated sludge after storage in the temporary facility 13 is determined. Next, in step S303, activated sludge information obtained from estimation results under a plurality of storage conditions conducted as virtual tests is selected that is closest to the expected state. Then, facility information required to realize in the temporary facility 13 the storage conditions in the test under which the selected activated sludge information was obtained is estimated.

[0070] In the third aspect, first, a state (expected state) expected for the activated sludge after storage in the temporary facility 13 is determined. Next, storage condition information is estimated using an estimation model in which information indicating the storage period in the temporary facility 13 and the expected state are used as explanatory variables and storage condition information is used as a target variable. Then, facility information required to realize the estimated storage conditions in the temporary facility 13 is estimated.

[0071] The equipment information is estimated by the above-described processing. Then, a cost estimate is made based on the estimated equipment information and the information stored in the equipment price information storage unit 522. The equipment information and the estimated amount are presented to the manager of the wastewater treatment equipment 11. For example, the equipment information and estimate data may be sent from the temporary equipment control device 50 to the manager's email address, or the equipment information and estimate data may be sent from the temporary equipment control device 50 to the terminal device 60, and the information output (displayed or printed) from the terminal device 60 may be presented to the manager.

[0072] Next, immediately before the start of actual storage of activated sludge, a final sludge state check is performed (step S305). In the process of checking the final sludge state, the same processes as those in steps S303 and S304 may be performed.

[0073] Next, the temporary facility 13 is actually installed, and the activated sludge stored in the tank of the target facility (wastewater treatment facility 11) is transferred to the temporary facility. While the activated sludge is stored in the temporary facility 13, aeration treatment is performed under the control of the temporary facility control device 50. During this time, tests and estimates equivalent to steps S303 and S304 may be performed on the activated sludge in the temporary facility 13, thereby reviewing (updating) the storage conditions. When it is time to return the activated sludge, the activated sludge is returned, and the temporary facility 13 is dismantled.

[0074] By carrying out this series of processes, even if it becomes temporarily impossible to store activated sludge in the target facility, the activated sludge can be stored in accordance with the storage conditions without causing the condition to deteriorate drastically, and when wastewater treatment is started after storage, it can be resumed in a shorter period of time and with a higher wastewater treatment capacity.

[0075] In the management system 100 configured in this manner, by using information regarding the expected state of activated sludge after storage, it is possible to more accurately estimate the storage conditions required to achieve such a state.

[0076] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an outline of an example hardware configuration of an information processing device 90 applied to this embodiment. The information processing device 90 includes a processor 91, a main memory device 92, a communication interface 93, an auxiliary memory device 94, an input / output interface 95, and an internal bus 96. The processor 91, the main memory device 92, the communication interface 93, the auxiliary memory device 94, and the input / output interface 95 are communicably connected to each other via the internal bus 96. The information processing device 90 may be applied to, for example, the learning device 40 and the temporary facility control device 50. In this case, for example, the communication units 41 and 51 may be configured using the communication interface 93. For example, the memory units 42 and 52 may be configured using the auxiliary memory device 94. Furthermore, the control units 43 and 53 may be configured using the processor 91 and the main memory device 92.

[0077] (Variation) In this embodiment, the temporary facility control device 50 and the terminal device 60 are configured as separate devices, but they may also be configured as an integrated device. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing a modified example of the temporary facility control device 50 configured in this manner. The temporary facility control device 50 shown in Fig. 9 includes an input unit 54 and an output unit 55. The input unit 54 and output unit 55 of the temporary facility control device 50 shown in Fig. 9 function in the same manner as the input unit 62 and output unit 63 of the terminal device 60, respectively. The control unit 53 operates in response to an operation on the input unit 54, performs estimation processing using the input information, and outputs the information using the output unit 55.

[0078] In this embodiment, the learning device 40 and the temporary facility control device 50 are configured as separate devices, but they may also be configured as an integrated device.

[0079] The learning device 40 may be implemented using a plurality of information processing devices. For example, the learning device 40 may be implemented using a device such as a cloud. For example, in the learning device 40, the memory unit 42 and the control unit 43 may each be implemented in different information processing devices. For example, the memory unit 42 of the learning device 40 may be distributed and implemented across a plurality of information processing devices. The temporary facility control device 50 may be implemented using a plurality of information processing devices. For example, the temporary facility control device 50 may be implemented using a device such as a cloud. For example, in the temporary facility control device 50, the memory unit 52 and the control unit 53 may each be implemented in different information processing devices. For example, the memory unit 52 of the temporary facility control device 50 may be distributed and implemented across a plurality of information processing devices.

[0080] Although an embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and includes designs within the scope of the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 100... management system, 11... wastewater treatment equipment, 12... test equipment, 13... temporary equipment, 21... first sensor system, 22... second sensor system, 23... third sensor system, 30... data management device, 40... learning device, 41... communication unit, 42... memory unit, 421... teacher data memory unit, 422... learned model memory unit, 43... control unit, 431... information control unit, 432... learning control unit, 50... temporary equipment control device, 51... communication unit, 52... memory unit, 521... estimation model memory unit, 522... equipment price information memory unit, 523... storage condition information memory unit, 53... control unit, 531... information control unit, 532... estimation unit, 533... equipment control unit, 60... terminal device, 61... communication unit, 62... input unit, 63... output unit, 64... memory unit, 65...Control unit

Claims

1. An estimation system comprising an estimation unit that estimates, based on an expected state that is an expected state of activated sludge used in an activated sludge facility for wastewater treatment after the activated sludge is stored in a storage facility different from the activated sludge facility, storage conditions in the storage facility that are required to realize the expected state.

2. an estimation model storage unit that stores an estimation model, which is information indicating a relationship between the storage conditions and the state, obtained based on the state of the activated sludge after actually storing the activated sludge under a plurality of storage conditions; The estimation system according to claim 1 , wherein the estimation unit estimates storage conditions required to realize the expected state by using the estimation model.

3. The estimation system according to claim 2 , wherein the estimation model is information indicating a relationship between at least a TOC value and a storage period.

4. The estimation system according to claim 1 , further comprising a cost calculation unit that calculates the cost required to realize the storage conditions estimated by the estimation unit.

5. An estimation method comprising an estimation step of estimating, based on an expected state that is an expected state of activated sludge used in an activated sludge facility for wastewater treatment after the activated sludge is stored in a storage facility different from the activated sludge facility, the storage conditions in the storage facility that are required to realize the expected state.

6. A computer program for causing a computer to function as an estimation system having an estimation unit that estimates, based on an expected state that is an expected state of activated sludge used in an activated sludge facility for wastewater treatment after the activated sludge is stored in a storage facility different from the activated sludge facility, the storage conditions in the storage facility that are required to realize the expected state.

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