Environmental information collection system

Abstract

To provide an environmental information collection system that, in collecting environmental information in a business office, can distribute the load on necessary information processing on collected environmental information.SOLUTION: An environmental information collection system 1 for collecting environmental information of a business office 3 in which industrial machinery 2 is installed comprises: a sensor group 50 that consists of one or more environmental sensors 5 arranged in the business office 3; and a plurality of information processing apparatuses 6 that can acquire and store environmental information detected by the sensor group 50 and have a hierarchical structure to transmit the environmental information from the downstream side toward the upstream side. The plurality of information processing apparatuses 6 execute predefined information processing on the acquired environmental information on any one or more hierarchies.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to an environmental information collection system. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for remotely managing a device to be managed based on the status of the device to be managed detected by a detection unit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-162999 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When managing industrial machinery installed at a business site, environmental information may be collected within the business site and necessary information processing may be performed on the collected environmental information. If there is a large amount of collected environmental information, the information processing load may become large.

[0005] The technology disclosed in this specification aims to provide an environmental information collection system that can distribute the load of required information processing for collected environmental information when collecting environmental information within a business establishment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This specification discloses an environmental information collection system for collecting environmental information of a business establishment where industrial machinery is installed. The environmental information collection system includes a sensor group consisting of one or more environmental sensors arranged within the business establishment, and a plurality of information processing devices configured to acquire and store the environmental information detected by the sensor group and having a hierarchical structure that transmits the environmental information from downstream to upstream. The plurality of information processing devices are configured to perform predetermined information processing on the acquired environmental information at any one or more levels. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] The technology disclosed in this specification makes it possible to provide an environmental information collection system that can distribute the load of required information processing for collected environmental information when collecting environmental information within a business establishment. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an environmental information collection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a hardware configuration diagram showing the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating industrial machinery and demand facilities according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing an information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a method for diagnosing the health of an industrial machine according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for diagnosing the health of a transportation route according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a method for evaluating the improvement effect of utility conversion efficiency according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] [1] Environmental information collection system 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an environmental information gathering system 1 according to an embodiment. The environmental information gathering system 1 gathers environmental information about a business establishment 3 in which an industrial machine 2 is installed.

[0010] The industrial machinery 2 refers to machinery and equipment used to produce goods or provide services. The industrial machinery 2 mainly includes utility conversion machinery and equipment that converts primary utilities into secondary utilities that can be used by demand facilities 8.

[0011] Utilities refer to energy sources or fluids required for industrial activity. Examples of primary utilities input to utility conversion machines and equipment include fuel (gas, oil), electricity, and raw water. Examples of secondary utilities output from industrial machines 2 include heat transfer media (steam, thermal oil, hot water, cold water), compressed air, electricity, and treated water.

[0012] The demand facilities 8 use the secondary utilities output from the industrial machinery 2. For example, the demand facilities 8 use the heat transfer medium as a heat source for various production processes or air conditioning. The demand facilities 8 use compressed air as a power source for pneumatic equipment or pneumatic tools. The demand facilities 8 use electricity as a power source for electrically powered equipment, power tools, or lighting. The demand facilities 8 use treated water as process water for food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, or semiconductor manufacturing.

[0013] Examples of utility conversion machinery and equipment include thermal equipment, air compressors, generators, and water treatment equipment. Examples of thermal equipment include combustion-type steam boilers, electric heater steam boilers, heat recovery steam boilers, combustion-type heat medium boilers, combustion-type hot water boilers, electric heater hot water boilers, heat recovery hot water boilers, electric heat pumps, electric chillers, electric heat pump chillers, and flash steam generators. Examples of air compressors include electric air compressors, heat recovery electric air compressors, and steam-driven air compressors. Examples of generators include mono-generation generators and co-generation generators. Examples of water treatment equipment include reverse osmosis membrane devices, water softeners, deoxygenators, and various filtration devices.

[0014] In addition, industrial machinery 2 may include medical machinery and equipment used in a series of processes from receiving items to be cleaned and sterilized to unloading them, laundry machinery and equipment used in a series of processes from collecting items to shipping them, food and beverage manufacturing machinery and equipment used in a series of processes from receiving raw materials to storing products, vehicles that transport cargo unmanned between multiple points set up within a business premises, navigation machinery and equipment installed on ships such as cargo ships, etc.

[0015] Examples of medical devices include washer and sterilizer. Examples of washer include vacuum boiling washer and ultrasonic washer. Examples of sterilizer include steam sterilizer and gas sterilizer.

[0016] Examples of laundry appliances include washing machines, dryers, and finishing machines. Examples of washing machines include continuous washing machines, cold water washing machines, and dry cleaning machines. Examples of dryers include gas dryers and steam dryers. Examples of finishing machines include gas roll ironers and steam roll ironers.

[0017] Examples of machinery and equipment for producing food and beverages include thawing machines, cooking machines, cooling machines, and sterilizers. Examples of thawing machines include vacuum steam thawing machines, microwave thawing machines, high-frequency thawing machines, and running water thawing machines. Examples of cooking machines include steam kneaders, steam kettles, and saturated steam cookers. Examples of cooling machines include vacuum coolers, cold water coolers, and cold air coolers. Examples of sterilizers include retort sterilizers and pasteurizers.

[0018] Examples of autonomously travelling unmanned guided vehicles include a trolley vehicle, a forklift vehicle and a tow vehicle.

[0019] Examples of navigational machinery and equipment include main engines (single-fuel / dual-fuel diesel engines), turbochargers (auxiliary machinery), exhaust gas economizers (steam generators), shaft generators, steam turbine generators, binary generators, freshwater boilers, BOG combustion boilers, and exhaust gas scrubbing equipment. Examples of cargo handling machinery and equipment include diesel generators, cranes, derricks, ballast water pumps, and ballast water treatment systems.

[0020] An establishment 3 refers to an individual location where the production of goods or the provision of services is carried out as a business. Industrial machinery 2 is installed in the establishment 3. A factory 4 is set up in an establishment 3 where goods are produced, etc. Examples of factories 4 include food factories, beverage factories, metal product factories, plastic product factories, textile factories, and laundry factories. Industrial machinery 2 is installed in the factory 4.

[0021] It should be noted that the establishment 3 that provides the service does not necessarily have to have a factory 4. The business conducted at the establishment 3 may include public health services. Examples of public health services include hospitals, clinics, and health centers. The establishment 3 may also include a food service center. Furthermore, instead of the establishment 3, the industrial machine 2 may be installed on a ship used for maritime transportation services.

[0022] In the example shown in FIG. 1, there are three business establishments 3 operated by a certain business operator. The business establishments 3 include a first business establishment 3A, a second business establishment 3B, and a third business establishment 3C. A factory 4 is set up in the second business establishment 3B. The factory 4 set up in the second business establishment 3B includes a first factory 4A and a second factory 4B. Note that a factory 4 may be set up in one or both of the first business establishment 3A and the third business establishment 3C.

[0023] The industrial machines 2 are installed in each of the first factory 4A and the second factory 4B. The data collection terminals 7 are installed in each of the first factory 4A and the second factory 4B. The data collection terminals 7 are a general term for devices in the business establishment 3 that are used for data collection.

[0024] The environmental information collection system 1 comprises a sensor group 50 consisting of one or more environmental sensors 5 placed within a business premises 3, and a plurality of information processing devices 6 configured to acquire and store the environmental information detected by the sensor group 50.

[0025] The environmental sensors 5 detect environmental information of the business establishment 3 (factory 4) where the industrial machine 2 is installed. Typical environmental information is the environmental state or conditions of the space in which the industrial machine 2 operates. The environmental information includes physical parameters of the industrial machine 2 itself and its surroundings. Data detected by some of the environmental sensors 5 is used for the operation or control of the industrial machine 2. Examples of the environmental sensors 5 include temperature sensors, humidity sensors, pressure sensors, water level sensors, flow rate sensors, electrical conductivity sensors (EC sensors), power sensors, distance sensors, image sensors, and force sensors.

[0026] [2] Information processing device The information processing device 6 includes a computer. The environmental information collecting system 1 has a plurality of information processing devices 6. The information processing devices 6 include an industrial controller 61, an edge computer 62, a gateway 63, a guest computer 64, and a host computer 65.

[0027] 2 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an information processing device 6 according to an embodiment. The information processing device 6 includes a computer 10. Each of an industrial controller 61, an edge computer 62, a gateway 63, a guest computer 64, and a host computer 65 includes a computer 10. The computer 10 includes a processor 11, a storage device 12, a communication interface 13, and an input / output interface 14. The information processing device 6 also includes a power supply device (not shown).

[0028] The processor 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 11 may also include a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The storage device 12 includes a recording medium that stores computer programs and data in a manner that allows the processor 11 to read them. The storage device 12 includes on-board system memory such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or ROM (Read Only Memory), large-capacity flash memory such as an SD card or USB memory, and large-capacity storage such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0029] The communication interface 13 communicates via a communication network. Examples of communication networks include a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), and a commercial network such as the Internet. The local area network may be a wired LAN or a wireless LAN. The wide area network may include a mobile line or a satellite communication line. The computer 10 transmits data to an external computer via the communication network. The computer 10 receives data from an external computer via the communication network. The computer 10 is connected to an external device via the input / output interface 14.

[0030] The storage device 12 stores application software. The application software is an example of a computer program. The processor 11 reads the application software from the storage device 12, expands it in the system memory, and executes processing in accordance with the application software. The application software may be distributed to the computer 10 via a communication network. The processor 11 has engines, which are multiple functional units. The functions of the engines of the processor 11 are realized by application software (computer programs). The engines include the functions of application software that run on an operating system.

[0031] The industrial controller 61 refers to a device having the function of controlling the operation of the industrial machine 2 and controlling data collection. The industrial controller 61 is incorporated into the industrial machine 2 and the data collection terminal 7. Examples of the industrial controller 61 incorporated into the industrial machine 2 include a microcomputer 61A (microcomputer) and a programmable logic controller 61B (PLC). In the embodiment, the industrial machine 2 includes a first industrial machine 2A in which the microcomputer 61A is disposed, and a second industrial machine 2B in which the programmable logic controller 61B is disposed. An example of the industrial controller 61 incorporated into the data collection terminal 7 is the microcomputer 61A.

[0032] The environmental sensors 5 are connected to the industrial controller 61 of the industrial machine 2 and the industrial controller 61 of the data collection terminal 7. The environmental sensors 5 are connected to the input / output interface 14 of the industrial controller 61. A plurality of environmental sensors 5 are connected to one industrial controller 61. The industrial controller 61 collects environmental information from the environmental sensors 5 in real time. The communication interface 13 of the industrial controller 61 transmits the real-time environmental information to the edge computer 62 via a communication network (LAN).

[0033] The industrial controller 61 of the industrial machine 2 uses the environmental information collected from the environmental sensors 5 to control the operation of the industrial machine 2 and records it for operational management. The industrial controller 61 of the industrial machine 2 may receive environmental information collected by an industrial controller 61 incorporated in another industrial machine 2 or the data collection terminal 7 and use the information to control the operation of the industrial machine itself.

[0034] The industrial controller 61 of the data collection terminal 7 is connected to each of the plurality of environmental sensors 5 scattered throughout the business establishment 3. The industrial controller 61 of the data collection terminal 7 is connected to the plurality of environmental sensors 5 of different types.

[0035] The edge computer 62 is installed in the factory 4. One or more edge computers 62 are installed in one factory 4. The communication interface 13 of the edge computer 62 communicates with each of the multiple industrial controllers 61 belonging to the factory 4 in which the edge computer 62 is located, via a communication network (LAN). The edge computer 62 receives environmental information from the industrial controllers 61 via the communication network.

[0036] The edge computer 62 has about 5 GB of on-board memory as the storage device 12 so that it can store a sufficient amount of information. The edge computer 62 may also have an AI engine (neural network processing unit: NPU) so that it can execute the learning phase and inference phase in machine learning.

[0037] The gateway 63 constitutes a connection node between the local area network and the Internet, and has performance and specifications equivalent to those of the edge computer 62. The gateway 63 is installed in the business establishment 3. One or more gateways 63 are installed in one business establishment 3. The communication interface 13 of the gateway 63 communicates with each of the multiple edge computers 62 belonging to the business establishment 3 where the gateway 63 is located, via a communication network (LAN). The gateway 63 receives environmental information from the edge computer 62 via the communication network. Note that if the factory 4 installed in the business establishment 3 is a single building, the edge computer 62 and gateway 63 may be integrated into a single computer.

[0038] The guest computer 64 is located outside the business establishment 3. The guest computer 64 is installed, for example, at a regional base of a service provider that undertakes tasks such as status monitoring and maintenance inspection of the industrial machines 2 installed at the business establishment 3. One guest computer 64 is installed at each management base. The guest computer 64 includes a local server. The communication interface 13 of the guest computer 64 communicates with a gateway 63 belonging to the business establishment 3 via a communication network (Internet). The guest computer 64 receives environmental information from the gateway 63 via the communication network. If a guest computer 64 is not installed, the gateway 63 and a host computer 65, which will be described later, will be connected via a communication network.

[0039] The host computer 65 is located outside the business establishment 3. The host computer 65 is installed, for example, at the headquarters of a service provider. The host computer 65 includes a cloud server. The communication interface 13 of the host computer 65 communicates with each of the multiple guest computers 64 via a communication network (Internet). The host computer 65 receives environmental information from the guest computers 64 via the communication network.

[0040] [3] Hierarchical structure 3 is a diagram illustrating an information processing device 6 according to an embodiment. The multiple information processing devices 6 have a hierarchical structure in which environmental information detected by the environmental sensors 5 is transmitted from downstream to upstream. Of the multiple information processing devices 6, the industrial controller 61 to which the environmental sensors 5 are connected is the most downstream (lower layer, lower) information processing device 6, the edge computer 62 is the downstream information processing device 6 next to the industrial controller 61, the gateway 63 is the downstream information processing device 6 next to the edge computer 62, the guest computer 64 is the downstream information processing device 6 next to the gateway 63, and the host computer 65 is the most upstream (upper layer, upper) information processing device 6.

[0041] Environmental information is detected by the environmental sensors 5. An industrial controller 61, which is a lower-level information processing device in the hierarchical structure, acquires real-time environmental information from the environmental sensors 5. The environmental information detected by the environmental sensors 5 and collected by the industrial controller 61 is transmitted from the industrial controller 61 to an edge computer 62 via a communication network. The environmental information transmitted to the edge computer 62 is transmitted from the edge computer 62 to a gateway 63 via the communication network. The environmental information transmitted to the gateway 63 is transmitted from the gateway 63 to a guest computer 64 via the communication network. The environmental information transmitted to the guest computer 64 is transmitted from the guest computer 64 to a host computer 65 via the communication network.

[0042] The industrial controller 61 is a lower-level information processing device in the hierarchical structure. The edge computer 62, the gateway 63, and the guest computer 64 are intermediate information processing devices in the hierarchical structure. The host computer 65 is a higher-level information processing device in the hierarchical structure.

[0043] The lower information processing device functions as an IoT device to which an environmental sensor 5 is connected. The lower information processing device can transmit various types of environmental information to the intermediate information processing device. The intermediate information processing device functions as a relay between the lower information processing device and the upper information processing device. The intermediate information processing device can receive various types of environmental information from the lower information processing device and transmit the various types of environmental information to the upper information processing device. The upper information processing device can receive various types of environmental information from the intermediate information processing device. The upper information processing device has an information accumulation platform. The information accumulation platform is, for example, an open IoT operating system based on cloud computing, and is capable of systematically accumulating information aggregates, etc., as described below. Note that some or all of the functions realized by the information accumulation platform may be incorporated into the intermediate information processing device.

[0044] The plurality of information processing devices 6 (61, 62, 63, 64, 65) are configured to execute predetermined information processing on acquired environmental information in one or more layers.

[0045] The predefined information processing includes a batch process that adjusts the time-series environmental information to a desired time granularity, and a grouping process that integrates different types of environmental information into an information aggregate linked to a hierarchical level of industrial activity.

[0046] (1) Real-time environmental information generation and processing As described above, the industrial controller 61 is a lower-level information processing device in a hierarchical structure. The lower-level information processing device is connected to the environmental sensor 5. The lower-level information processing device acquires and stores real-time environmental information from the environmental sensor 5 at predetermined sampling intervals. The lower-level information processing device has an A / D conversion function that converts the analog signal of the environmental sensor 5 into a digital signal, a function that replaces the A / D value with a measurement sample value, a selection function of the measurement sample value, a moving average function of the measurement sample value, a period or frequency measurement function of a pulse signal, and the like, and uses these functions to calculate a final measurement value in real time.

[0047] If the environmental sensor 5 is a temperature sensor, pressure sensor, or water level sensor, the lower-level information processing device reads the analog signal of the environmental sensor 5 at a predetermined sampling interval (approximately 10 to 25 ms), quantizes it, and converts it into a digital signal to calculate an A / D value. The lower-level information processing device processes the most recent N sampling results at each sampling timing, and determines the average of the A / D values ​​for M (=N-4) samples, excluding the first and second largest values ​​and the first and second smallest values, as the final A / D value. The lower-level information processing device references a judgment table or uses a calculation formula to generate the temperature, pressure, or water level as real-time environmental information from the final A / D value. The lower-level information processing device also determines whether the environmental sensor 5 is normal or abnormal based on the final A / D value.

[0048] If the environmental sensor 5 is a flow sensor, the lower-level information processing device measures the interval between the falling edge and the next falling edge of a pulse signal obtained by converting a sine wave signal into a square wave signal as the pulse width. The pulse width is counted with the period of the count clock as one unit. The lower-level information processing device updates the pulse width at predetermined sampling intervals (approximately 100 ms) and calculates a sample value of the instantaneous flow rate by dividing the pulse constant (L / P: number of liters per pulse) by the pulse width. The lower-level information processing device processes the most recent N sampling results at each sampling timing and generates the latest instantaneous flow rate as real-time environmental information from the average of M (=N-2) samples excluding the maximum and minimum values. The lower-level information processing device detects the number of falling edges of the pulse signal every second as the pulse count (P / s). When the pulse count is updated, the lower-level information processing device adds the flow rate calculated by multiplying the pulse count by the pulse constant to the previous integrated flow rate to generate the latest integrated flow rate as real-time environmental information.

[0049] If the environmental sensor 5 is an EC sensor, the lower-level information processing device calculates a final A / D value using the same process as for a temperature sensor, and then calculates a calculated electrical conductivity value using a predetermined formula depending on the range of the final A / D value. Furthermore, the lower-level information processing device applies a correction coefficient to correct for variations in individual sensors and temperature data measured by the temperature sensor to generate electrical conductivity converted to 25°C as real-time environmental information.

[0050] If the environmental sensor 5 is a power sensor (power monitor), the lower-level information processing device acquires sample values ​​of instantaneous power from the power sensor at a predetermined sampling period (approximately 80 to 100 ms), adds (sums) all sample values ​​for one period at each sampling interval Δt, and averages them over the period T to obtain real-time environmental information of instantaneous power [W]. The instantaneous power for each sampling period is accumulated to obtain real-time environmental information of integrated power, and if one period is one second, the unit of this accumulated value is [W·s], and if this is multiplied by 3600, the unit becomes [W·h].

[0051] The time granularity of real-time environmental information depends on the sampling interval or recording interval and is generally quite fine (for example, the latest value is updated every 10 ms to 1 s). When multiple types of real-time environmental information are used to calculate other information (real-time values ​​such as boiler efficiency, differential pressure, and permeation flux) at the time of updating the real-time environmental information, the lower-level information processing device also treats the other information as real-time environmental information. The lower-level information processing device transmits the real-time environmental information together with an identification number (measurement item ID, device ID, location ID, etc.) and the update time to the intermediate information processing device.

[0052] (2) Batch processing The real-time environmental information is time-series data that is generated successively over time in the industrial controller 61, a lower-level information processing device. Batch processing refers to the process of adjusting the time-series real-time environmental information to the required time granularity. Time granularity is an index that indicates the degree of time granularity, and can be selected from, for example, seconds, minutes, hours, and days. In the following explanation, environmental information that has undergone batch processing may be referred to as "batch environmental information."

[0053] When batch processing is performed in the lower-level information processing device, the industrial controller 61 includes a microcomputer 61A and a programmable logic controller 61B, so it is preferable to perform batch processing taking into account the difference in processing power. For example, the microcomputer 61A, due to its high processing power, can provide real-time environmental information with finer time granularity than the programmable logic controller 61B. Therefore, it is preferable for the microcomputer 61A to perform batch processing in accordance with the programmable logic controller 61B, which has a coarser time granularity.

[0054] When batch processing is performed in the intermediate information processing device, the edge computer 62 acquires real-time environmental information from the industrial controller 61 at predetermined intervals, accumulates it for a predetermined period, performs batch processing, and processes it into batch environmental information with adjusted time granularity. The intermediate information processing device continuously collects and integrates real-time environmental information, for example, at one-second intervals. If the real-time environmental information is temperature, pressure, instantaneous flow rate, or the like, the intermediate information processing device divides the integrated value of the real-time environmental information by the number of integrations to calculate an average value when the predetermined period is reached, and uses the calculated average value as the batch environmental information. If the real-time environmental information is an integrated flow rate or power consumption per unit time period, the intermediate information processing device uses the integrated value of the real-time environmental information as is. When processing the integrated real-time environmental information into batch environmental information, the intermediate information processing device also treats other information (COP, specific energy, etc.) calculated using multiple types of batch environmental information as batch environmental information.

[0055] Furthermore, when batch processing is performed in a higher-level information processing device instead of an intermediate information processing device, real-time environmental information transmitted from a lower-level information processing device to the intermediate information processing device is acquired at predetermined intervals, accumulated for a predetermined period, and batch-processed to produce batch environmental information with adjusted time granularity. The contents of the batch processing can be the same as those when performed in the intermediate information processing device.

[0056] The time granularity of batch environmental information is preferably at a level that can be used to evaluate or verify the utility conversion efficiency (described later) in the information utilization process associated with providing services to customers, and is selected from, for example, 0.5 hours, 1 hour, 2 hours, 6 hours, 12 hours, or 24 hours. Batch environmental information with this level of time granularity can also be used for optimization diagnostic simulations of industrial machinery or production equipment (such as reviewing control settings and control patterns and predicting the effects of equipment modifications). The time granularity of batch environmental information may also be set at a level that allows for use in evaluating or verifying either or both of equipment availability and quality achievement rate in addition to utility conversion efficiency. The evaluation or verification of utility conversion efficiency may also be accompanied by the evaluation or verification of environmental impacts (such as carbon dioxide emissions and hazardous substance emissions).

[0057] (3) Grouping process Grouping processing refers to the process of integrating multiple different types of environmental information (real-time environmental information, batch environmental information) into an information aggregate linked to the hierarchical level of industrial activity.

[0058] The hierarchical levels of industrial activities include one or more of a machine unit level, a machine group level, a cell level, a line level, a building level, and a business establishment level.

[0059] The individual machine level is a level at which the utility conversion efficiency, which will be described later, is managed for each industrial machine 2 such as a steam boiler, heat pump, or air compressor.

[0060] The machine group level is a level at which utility conversion efficiency and the like are managed for multiple installations of industrial machines 2 such as steam boilers, heat pumps, and air compressors.

[0061] The cell level is a level at which the utility conversion efficiency of distributed production machines 2 attached to one or more cells is managed at a site that employs a cell production system.

[0062] The line level is a level at which the utility conversion efficiency of distributed production machines 2 attached to one or more lines (such as a container molding line or a beverage filling and sterilization line at a beverage manufacturing plant) is managed at a site that employs a line production system.

[0063] The building level is a level at which utility conversion efficiency and the like are managed for each building unit (the first factory 4A unit, the second factory 4B unit) dispersed within the site of the business establishment 3.

[0064] The business establishment level is a level at which the utility conversion efficiency and the like are managed for the entire site of the business establishment 3 (both the first factory 4A and the second factory 4B).

[0065] When grouping is performed in the upper information processing device, the host computer 65 selects and groups multiple pieces of batch environment information required for evaluating or verifying utility conversion efficiency from the diverse batch environment information generated by the edge computer 62. The information aggregate that has undergone this grouping process is accumulated in the information accumulation platform for a period required for history management (e.g., the past 12 months). The information aggregate may also be generated by selecting and grouping multiple pieces of batch environment information required for evaluating or verifying equipment availability or quality achievement rate. The information aggregate may also be generated by selecting and grouping multiple pieces of batch environment information required for demand management of production equipment utilities (hot water, steam, compressed air, treated water).

[0066] When performing grouping processing in the intermediate information processing device, the edge computer 62 can perform the grouping processing while performing the above-mentioned batch processing. The content of the grouping processing can be the same as when it is performed in the upper information processing device.

[0067] The time granularity of each piece of batch environment information that makes up an information aggregate is basically the same, and each information aggregate is accompanied by information on the accumulation period of the real-time environment information that forms the basis of the batch environment information.

[0068] An example of grouping processing will be described below. The upper information processing device performs grouping processing of batch environment information for the purpose of performing heat recovery air compressor energy management, heat recovery air compressor demand management, heat pump energy management, heat pump demand management, steam boiler energy management, and steam boiler demand management. The batch environment information that has undergone grouping processing is accumulated in an information accumulation platform. The time granularity of the batch environment information that is the subject of grouping processing is, for example, in 30-minute increments or 1-hour increments.

[0069] (3-1) Energy management of heat recovery air compressor The heat recovery air compressor is equipped with a heat recovery heat exchanger that recovers the heat of compression contained in the compressed air and lubricating oil to generate hot water from cooling water. The intermediate information processing device acquires real-time environmental information corresponding to each sensor from the lower information processing device connected to the temperature sensor, flow rate sensor, power sensor, etc., and generates batch environmental information. The batch environmental information includes information such as the discharge air volume [m 3 / h], power consumption [kWh], average inlet water temperature [℃], average outlet hot water temperature [℃], and cumulative hot water volume [m 3 The host information processing device generates an information aggregate by grouping these multiple types of batch environment information. The host information processing device calculates the specific energy [kW / m 3 ] and energy recovery rate [%] are calculated.

[0070] (3-2) Demand management of heat recovery air compressor The intermediate information processing device acquires real-time environmental information corresponding to the sensors from the lower information processing device to which the flow rate sensor and the contact signal output device of the air supply valve are connected, and generates batch environmental information. The batch environmental information includes the discharge air volume [m 3 / h], air consumption [m 3 The information includes the total air consumption [h] and the cumulative open time [h] of the air supply valve. The host information processing device generates an information aggregate by grouping these multiple types of batch environment information. The host information processing device calculates the availability rate [%] of the demand equipment using the batch environment information integrated in the information aggregate. The host information processing device also diagnoses the presence or absence of leak losses in the air transport piping network by comparing the discharge air volume and consumed air volume integrated in the information aggregate. The air supply valve is installed at the end of the air transport piping and is opened when compressed air is used in the load equipment.

[0071] (3-3) Energy management of heat pumps The machinery and equipment to be managed includes air-source heat pumps and water-source heat pumps. The intermediate information processing device acquires real-time environmental information corresponding to each sensor from the lower information processing device connected to the temperature sensor, flow sensor, and power sensor, and generates batch environmental information. The batch environmental information includes the average inlet water temperature [°C], the average outlet hot water temperature [°C], the cumulative hot water volume [m 3 ], power consumption [kWh], and average heat source temperature [℃]. The host information processing device generates an information aggregate by grouping these multiple types of batch environment information. The host information processing device calculates the coefficient of performance (COP) and heat supply amount [W] using the batch environment information integrated into the information aggregate.

[0072] (3-4) Demand management of heat pumps When hot water generated by a heat pump is used in a demand facility, there are two modes: one in which hot water is sequentially supplied to the demand facility, and one in which hot water is circulated to the demand facility. In the former mode, the hot water itself is consumed and waste hot water is generated. In the latter mode, only the thermal energy of the hot water is consumed and the hot water after heat utilization is returned. The intermediate information processing device acquires real-time environmental information corresponding to each sensor from a lower information processing device to which temperature sensors, flow rate sensors, etc. are connected, and generates batch environmental information. In the mode in which hot water is consumed in a demand facility, the batch environmental information includes the average supply temperature [°C], average discharge temperature [°C], and average hot water supply flow rate [m 3 / h], and the hot water consumption pattern at the demand facility includes the average supply temperature [℃], the average return temperature [℃], and the average circulation flow rate [m 3 The host information processing device generates an information aggregate by grouping these multiple types of batch environment information. The host information processing device calculates the heat consumption [W] using the batch environment information integrated into the information aggregate.

[0073] (3-5) Steam boiler energy management The intermediate information processing device acquires real-time environmental information corresponding to each sensor from the lower information processing device connected to the temperature sensor, pressure sensor, flow rate sensor, etc., and generates batch environmental information. The batch environmental information includes the average header air supply pressure [MPa], the average feedwater temperature [℃], the cumulative steam supply amount [m 3 ], cumulative fuel consumption [m 3 ], average boiler efficiency [%], and average blowdown rate [%]. The boiler efficiency and blowdown rate are calculated based on multiple types of real-time environmental information. The upper information processing device generates an information aggregate by grouping these multiple types of batch environmental information. The upper information processing device calculates the heat supply amount [W] and energy efficiency [%] using the batch environmental information integrated into the information aggregate. Note that the heat gain of boiler feedwater due to condensate recovery and heat pump heating and the heat loss due to concentrated blowdown not only affect fuel consumption but also change the apparent boiler efficiency, so the boiler efficiency and blowdown rate are integrated into the information aggregate as related batch environmental information.

[0074] (3-6) Steam boiler demand management The intermediate information processing device acquires real-time environmental information corresponding to each sensor from the lower information processing device to which a temperature sensor, a pressure sensor, a flow rate sensor, etc. are connected, and generates batch environmental information. The batch environmental information includes the average terminal supply steam pressure [MPa], the average terminal exhaust steam pressure [MPa], and the cumulative steam arrival volume [m 3 The host information processing device calculates the heat consumption [W] and heat arrival [W] using the batch environment information integrated into the information aggregate. If the batch environment information related to the heat supply, heat consumption, and heat delivery is integrated prior to calculating the heat supply, heat consumption, and heat delivery, the heat dissipation loss can be evaluated by calculating the difference between the heat supply and heat delivery.

[0075] [4] Industrial machinery and equipment FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating an industrial machine 2 and a demand facility 8 according to an embodiment. As described above, the industrial machine 2 mainly includes a utility conversion device that converts a primary utility into a secondary utility that can be used by the demand facility 8. The primary utility is supplied to the industrial machine 2 via a supply path 21. The secondary utility sent from the industrial machine 2 is delivered to the demand facility 8 via a transport path 22. The secondary utility that has passed through the demand facility 8 is discharged via a discharge path 23. The transport path 22 may be formed as a transport piping network. In addition, auxiliary facilities for accumulating media (such as a steam header, a hot water tank, and a cold water tank) may be provided along the transport path 22.

[0076] The sensor group 50 includes a first sensor group 51 consisting of one or more environmental sensors 5 provided on the primary utility side, a second sensor group 52 consisting of one or more environmental sensors provided on the secondary utility side, and a third sensor group 53 consisting of one or more environmental sensors 5 provided on the industrial machine 2.

[0077] The second sensor group 52 includes a sending side second sensor group 521 arranged closer to the industrial machine 2 on the transportation route 22 that delivers the secondary utility sent from the industrial machine 2 to the demand facility 8, and a delivery side second sensor group 522 arranged closer to the demand facility 8.

[0078] The sending-side second sensor group 521 or the delivery-side second sensor group 522 of the second sensor group 52 can be considered to be a supply-side second sensor group arranged upstream of the demand facility 8 that uses the secondary utility. The second sensor group 52 also includes a discharge-side second sensor group 54 arranged downstream of the demand facility 8 that uses the secondary utility.

[0079] [5] Information processing device FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram showing an information processing device 6 according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing device 6 includes a computer 10 having a processor 11. The information processing device 6 has a utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31, an industrial machine abnormality detection engine 32, an industrial machine diagnosis engine 33, a utility loss rate calculation engine 34, a transportation route abnormality detection engine 35, a transportation route diagnosis engine 36, a utility utilization rate calculation engine 37, and a utility conversion efficiency evaluation engine 38. These engines 31 to 38 can be functional units in one or more layers of the multiple information processing devices 6. The following description assumes that a required information aggregate is generated by grouping processing in a host computer 65, which is a higher-level information processing device, and that this information aggregate is the processing target of the engines 31 to 38.

[0080] The utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 derives the input amount of the primary utility and the output amount of the secondary utility from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and calculates the utility conversion efficiency based on these input amounts and output amounts. The input amount of the primary utility is detected by the first sensor group 51. The output amount of the secondary utility is detected by the second sensor group 52 (sending side second sensor group 521). The utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 calculates the utility conversion efficiency based on the input amount of the primary utility detected by the first sensor group 51 and the output amount of the secondary utility detected by the second sensor group 52.

[0081] The industrial machinery anomaly detection engine 32 extracts condition information of the industrial machinery 2 from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and based on this condition information, detects one or both of signs and occurrence of an abnormality in the industrial machinery 2. The condition information of the industrial machinery 2 is detected by the third sensor group 53. For example, when the condition of the industrial machinery 2 deteriorates, the detection value of the third sensor group 53 is often a numerical value that deviates from the detection value of the third sensor group 53 when the condition of the industrial machinery 2 is normal. Therefore, for example, multiple thresholds are set according to the deviation level of the detection value of the third sensor group 53 from the normal value, and the industrial machinery anomaly detection engine 32 detects that there is a sign of an abnormality when the deviation level reaches a lower first threshold, and that an abnormality has occurred when the deviation level reaches a higher second threshold.

[0082] If the industrial machinery 2 is a steam boiler, the condition information includes scale adhesion information based on the water pipe temperature, feedwater pump performance information based on water level control inside the boiler, etc. If the industrial machinery 2 is a heat pump or chiller, the condition information includes refrigerant leak detection information, differential pressure information between the condenser and evaporator, etc. If the industrial machinery 2 is an air compressor, the condition information includes lubricant deterioration detection information, differential pressure information for filters, etc. If the industrial machinery 2 is an RO membrane device, the condition information includes permeation flux information of the membrane element, water quality information for the permeated water, etc.

[0083] The industrial machinery diagnosis engine 33 diagnoses the health of the industrial machinery 2 based on one or both of the calculation results of the utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 and the detection results of the industrial machinery abnormality detection engine 32 .

[0084] The utility loss rate calculation engine 34 derives the sent amount and delivered amount of the secondary utility from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and calculates the utility loss rate on the transportation route 22 based on these sent amount and delivered amount. The sent amount of the secondary utility is detected by the send-side second sensor group 521. The delivered amount of the secondary utility is detected by the delivery-side second sensor group 522. The utility loss rate calculation engine 34 calculates the utility loss rate based on the sent amount of the secondary utility detected by the send-side second sensor group 521 and the delivered amount of the secondary utility detected by the delivery-side second sensor group 522.

[0085] The transportation route anomaly detection engine 35 extracts condition information of the transportation route 22 from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and detects one or both of signs and occurrence of an anomaly on the transportation route 22 based on this condition information. The condition information of the transportation route 22 is detected by the sending-side second sensor group 521 and the delivery-side second sensor group 522. For example, if the condition of the transportation route 22 deteriorates due to aging or the like, causing a secondary utility leak from the transportation route 22, the deviation between the detection value of the sending-side second sensor group 521 and the detection value of the delivery-side second sensor group 522 will increase. Therefore, for example, multiple thresholds are set according to the level of deviation between the detection value of the delivery-side second sensor group 522 and the detection value of the sending-side second sensor group 521 (which is used as a reference value), and the transportation route anomaly detection engine 35 detects signs of an anomaly when the deviation level reaches a lower first threshold, and detects the occurrence of an anomaly when the deviation level reaches a higher second threshold.

[0086] The transportation route diagnosis engine 36 diagnoses the health of the transportation route 22 based on one or both of the calculation results of the utility loss rate calculation engine 34 and the detection results of the transportation route abnormality detection engine 35 .

[0087] The utility utilization rate calculation engine 37 derives the supply amount and discharge amount of the secondary utility from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and calculates the utility utilization rate at the demand facility 8 based on these supply amount and discharge amount. The supply amount of the secondary utility is detected by the delivery-side second sensor group 522. The discharge amount of the secondary utility is detected by the discharge-side second sensor group 54. The utility utilization rate calculation engine 37 calculates the utility utilization rate based on the supply amount of the secondary utility detected by the delivery-side second sensor group 522 and the discharge amount of the secondary utility detected by the discharge-side second sensor group 54.

[0088] The utility conversion efficiency evaluation engine 38 evaluates the effect of improving the utility conversion efficiency by reusing the secondary utility as the primary utility based on the calculation results of the utility utilization rate calculation engine 37.

[0089] [6] Utility conversion efficiency Utility conversion efficiency is an index that shows the operational performance of industrial machinery2 (utility conversion machinery and equipment), and with some exceptions, it is basically expressed as a ratio where the input amount of the primary utility is the denominator and the output amount of the secondary utility is the numerator. Utility conversion efficiency includes energy conversion efficiency [%], energy recovery efficiency [%], medium generation efficiency [m 3 / J], media conversion efficiency [%], and media modification efficiency [%] are exemplified.

[0090] (1) Energy conversion efficiency Energy conversion efficiency is an index that shows the operational performance value of industrial machinery 2 used when supplying thermal energy or electrical energy to demand equipment 8. Energy conversion efficiency is expressed as a percentage, where the input energy of the primary utility is the denominator and the output energy of the secondary utility is the numerator. The higher the energy conversion efficiency, the greater the effect of suppressing running costs (fuel charges and electricity charges) and reducing carbon dioxide emissions.

[0091] (1-1) Thermal equipment When the industrial machine 2 is a thermal device, the input energy [J] and the output energy [J] are expressed by the following equations. Input energy = fuel lower heating value x fuel consumption + electricity consumption Output energy = Outflow medium heat amount - Inflow medium heat amount The lower heating value of the fuel is a value determined by the type of fuel. The fuel consumption is measured using a flow sensor. The power consumption is measured using a power sensor.

[0092] The output energy of a steam boiler that generates steam as a secondary utility is expressed by the following formula: Output energy = (steam specific enthalpy - feedwater temperature x specific heat) x steam mass The specific enthalpy (total heat content) of saturated steam is determined by the pressure or temperature of the saturated steam and can be found by referring to a saturated steam table. The saturated steam pressure is measured using a pressure sensor. The saturated steam temperature and feedwater temperature are measured using a temperature sensor. The mass of steam generated by the steam boiler per unit time is measured using, for example, a thermal flow sensor.

[0093] The output energy of a heat transfer boiler that circulates and heats heat transfer oil as a secondary utility is expressed by the following formula. Output energy = (oil outlet temperature - oil inlet temperature) x specific heat x density x volume The oil outlet temperature and oil inlet temperature are measured using a temperature sensor. The volume of the heat transfer oil circulating through the heat transfer boiler per unit time is measured using a flow rate sensor.

[0094] The output energy of a hot water boiler that produces hot water as a secondary utility is expressed by the following formula: Output energy = (outlet water temperature - inlet water temperature) x specific heat x density x volume The outlet and inlet water temperatures are measured using temperature sensors, and the volume of water passing through the hot water boiler per unit time is measured using a flow sensor.

[0095] The output energy of a heat pump that produces hot water as a secondary utility is given by the following formula: Output energy = (outlet water temperature - inlet water temperature) x specific heat x density x volume The outlet and inlet water temperatures are measured using temperature sensors, and the volume of water passing through the heat pump per unit time is measured using a flow sensor.

[0096] The output energy of a chiller that produces chilled water as a secondary utility is expressed by the following formula: Output energy = (inlet water temperature - outlet water temperature) x specific heat x density x volume The inlet and outlet water temperatures are measured using temperature sensors, and the volume of water passing through the chiller per unit time is measured using a flow sensor.

[0097] The output energy of a heat pump chiller, which simultaneously generates hot and cold water as a secondary utility, is the same formula as a heat pump on the heating side and the same formula as a chiller on the cooling side.

[0098] The input energy required to operate industrial machinery 2 varies depending on the type of industrial machinery 2. For example, combustion boilers require fuel and electricity to operate, while heat pumps and chillers only require electricity. Power consumption includes auxiliary losses (power losses required to drive pumps, blowers, etc.). When the temperature of the inflow medium is increased through preliminary water heating, the actual output energy can be reduced, reducing fuel and power consumption and improving efficiency. In a steam boiler, if the amount of concentrated boiler water blown out increases, the amount of steam decreases accordingly, resulting in heat loss and lowering efficiency. In a heat pump, when the temperature of the heat source fluid (outside air, heat source water) increases, the amount of heat absorbed by the evaporator increases, reducing the power consumption of the refrigerant compressor and improving efficiency. In a chiller, when the temperature of the heat source fluid (outside air) decreases, the amount of heat released by the condenser increases, reducing the power consumption of the refrigerant compressor and improving efficiency.

[0099] (1-2) Electric air compressor When the industrial machine 2 is an electric air compressor, the input energy [J] and the output energy [J] are expressed by the following equations. Input energy = Power consumption Output energy = discharge pressure x discharge air volume The power consumption is measured using a power sensor, the discharge pressure is measured using a pressure sensor, and the amount of discharged air per unit time is measured using a flow sensor.

[0100] The power consumption includes motor power as well as auxiliary losses (power losses required to drive cooling fans, ventilation fans, etc.).

[0101] (1-3) Heat recovery electric air compressor When the industrial machine 2 is a heat recovery type electric air compressor, the input energy [J] and the output energy [J] are expressed by the following formulas. Input energy = Power consumption Output energy = Discharge pressure x Discharge air volume + Outflow medium heat - Inflow medium heat The amount of power consumed is measured using a power sensor. The discharge pressure is measured using a pressure sensor. The amount of discharged air per unit time is measured using a flow sensor. In the output energy formula, the parts related to the discharge pressure and discharged air amount are the output energy of the compressed air, and the parts related to the outflowing medium heat quantity and the inflowing medium heat quantity are the output energy of the hot water generated by heat recovery.

[0102] The output energy (part related to the outflow medium heat quantity and the inflow medium heat quantity) of the heat recovery heat exchanger that generates hot water as a secondary utility is expressed by the following formula. Output energy = (outlet water temperature - inlet water temperature) x specific heat x density x volume The outlet and inlet water temperatures are measured using temperature sensors, and the volume of water passing through the heat recovery heat exchanger per unit time is measured using a flow rate sensor.

[0103] In electric air compressors, approximately 90% of the input energy is converted into heat of compression during the compression process, which is released into the atmosphere as waste heat. As a result, the energy conversion efficiency is very low. Therefore, by recovering the heat of compression and reusing it as hot water, a significant improvement in energy conversion efficiency (overall efficiency) can be expected.

[0104] (1-4) Monogenerator When the industrial machine 2 is a mono-generator, the input energy [J] and output energy [J] are expressed by the following formulas: Note that examples of mono-generators include fuel cells and gas generators. Input energy = fuel lower heating value x fuel consumption Output energy = Net output power The lower heating value of the fuel is a value determined by the type of fuel. The fuel consumption amount is measured using a flow sensor. The net output power amount is measured using a power sensor.

[0105] Once the generator is started, it operates autonomously, so the net output power is the generated power minus auxiliary losses (power losses required to drive fuel blowers, air blowers, etc.) and power conditioner losses (power losses associated with boosting and AC conversion).

[0106] (1-5) Cogeneration type generator When the industrial machine 2 is a cogeneration type generator, the input energy [J] and output energy [J] are expressed by the following formulas: Note that examples of monogeneration type generators include fuel cells and gas generators. Input energy = fuel lower heating value x fuel consumption Output energy = Net output power + Outflow medium heat - Inflow medium heat The lower heating value of the fuel is a value determined by the type of fuel. The fuel consumption is measured using a flow sensor. The net output power is measured using a power sensor. In the output energy formula, the part related to the net output power is the output energy of electricity, and the parts related to the outflow medium heat quantity and the inflow medium heat quantity are the output energy of the hot water generated by heat recovery.

[0107] The output energy (part related to the outflow medium heat quantity and the inflow medium heat quantity) of the heat recovery heat exchanger that generates hot water as a secondary utility is expressed by the following formula. Output energy = (outlet water temperature - inlet water temperature) x specific heat x density x volume The outlet and inlet water temperatures are measured using temperature sensors, and the volume of water passing through the heat recovery heat exchanger per unit time is measured using a flow rate sensor.

[0108] In mono-generation gas generators, 50-60% of the input energy is converted into combustion heat when the gas engine is running, and this is released into the atmosphere as waste heat. In addition, in solid oxide fuel cells, 35-50% of the input energy is converted into combustion heat when the power generation module is operating, and this is released into the atmosphere as waste heat. As a result, the energy conversion efficiency is relatively low. Therefore, by recovering the combustion heat and reusing it as hot water, a significant improvement in energy conversion efficiency (overall efficiency) can be expected.

[0109] (2) Energy recovery efficiency Energy recovery efficiency is an index that shows the operational performance value of industrial machinery 2 used when recovering thermal energy that is wasted in a factory 4 and supplying that thermal energy to demand equipment 8. Energy recovery efficiency is expressed as a percentage, where the input energy of the primary utility is the denominator and the output energy of the secondary utility is the numerator, and is usually a value exceeding 100%. The higher the energy recovery efficiency, the greater the energy saving effect and the effect of reducing carbon dioxide emissions. Energy recovery efficiency has the same meaning as the coefficient of performance (COP) in the refrigeration cycle.

[0110] (2-1) Thermal equipment When the industrial machine 2 is a heat recovery type thermal device, the input energy [J] and the output energy [J] are expressed by the following formulas. Input energy = Power consumption Output energy = Outflow medium heat amount - Inflow medium heat amount Heat recovery type thermal equipment utilizes waste heat to generate secondary utilities, so the only input energy is the loss of auxiliary equipment such as water pumps and motor-operated valves. Power consumption is measured using power sensors.

[0111] The output energy of a heat recovery steam boiler that generates steam as a secondary utility is expressed by the following formula: Examples of heat recovery steam boilers include high-pressure steam boilers that use exhaust gas from gas engine generators or diesel engine generators as their heat source, and low-pressure steam boilers that use jacket waste hot water as their heat source. Output energy = (steam specific enthalpy - feedwater temperature x specific heat) x steam mass The specific enthalpy (total heat content) of saturated steam is determined by the pressure or temperature of the saturated steam and can be found by referring to a saturated steam table. The saturated steam pressure is measured using a pressure sensor. The saturated steam temperature and feedwater temperature are measured using a temperature sensor. The mass of steam generated by the steam boiler per unit time is measured using, for example, a thermal flow sensor.

[0112] The output energy of a heat recovery hot water boiler that generates hot water as a secondary utility is expressed by the following formula: An example of a heat recovery hot water boiler is a hot water boiler that uses exhaust gas from a gas engine generator or a diesel engine generator as its heat source. Output energy = (outlet water temperature - inlet water temperature) x specific heat x density x volume The outlet and inlet water temperatures are measured using temperature sensors, and the volume of water passing through the hot water boiler per unit time is measured using a flow sensor.

[0113] The output energy of a flash steam generator that generates low-pressure steam as a secondary utility is expressed by the following formula: Output energy = (steam specific enthalpy - drain temperature x specific heat) x steam mass The specific enthalpy (total heat content) of saturated steam is determined by the pressure or temperature of the saturated steam and can be found by referring to a saturated steam table. The saturated steam pressure is measured using a pressure sensor. The saturated steam temperature and drain temperature are measured using a temperature sensor. The mass of steam generated by the flash steam generator per unit time is measured using, for example, a thermal flow sensor.

[0114] In a configuration where a flash steam generator is combined with a steam compressor to boost the pressure of the low-pressure steam generated by the flash steam generator, the motor power of the steam compressor is added to the input energy. Also, in the steam compressor, cooling water is sprayed onto the screw rotor, and this cooling water evaporates due to the heat of compression and friction, so the total steam mass increases and the output energy also increases.

[0115] (2-2) Steam-driven air compressor When the industrial machine 2 is a heat recovery type steam-driven air compressor, the input energy [J] and the output energy [J] are expressed by the following equations. Input energy = Power consumption Output energy = Discharge pressure x Discharge air volume + Outflow medium heat - Inflow medium heat The amount of power consumed is measured using a power sensor. The discharge pressure is measured using a pressure sensor. The amount of discharged air per unit time is measured using a flow sensor. In the output energy formula, the parts related to the discharge pressure and discharged air amount are the output energy of the compressed air, and the parts related to the outflowing medium heat quantity and the inflowing medium heat quantity are the output energy of the hot water generated by heat recovery.

[0116] The output energy (part related to the outflow medium heat quantity and the inflow medium heat quantity) of the heat recovery heat exchanger that generates hot water as a secondary utility is expressed by the following formula. Output energy = (outlet water temperature - inlet water temperature) x specific heat x density x volume The outlet and inlet water temperatures are measured using temperature sensors, and the volume of water passing through the heat recovery heat exchanger per unit time is measured using a flow rate sensor.

[0117] Steam-driven air compressors use steam, a secondary utility generated in a steam boiler, to rotate a steam motor, which is the prime mover, to drive the compressor itself.As a result, the only input energy is auxiliary losses (power losses required to drive cooling fans, ventilation fans, etc.).

[0118] (3) Media generation efficiency The medium generation efficiency is an index that shows the operational performance value of industrial machinery 2 that is mainly used when consuming compressed air or treated water in demand facilities 8. The medium generation efficiency is expressed as the ratio of the input energy of the primary utility as the denominator to the output medium amount of the secondary utility as the numerator, and is expressed in units of [m 3 The higher the medium generation efficiency, the greater the effect of reducing running costs (electricity charges) and carbon dioxide emissions.

[0119] (3-1) Electric air compressor If industrial machine 2 is an electric air compressor, the input energy [J] and the output medium amount [m 3 ] is expressed by the following formula: Input energy = Power consumption Output medium volume = Discharge air volume The power consumption is measured using a power sensor, and the amount of air discharged per unit time is measured using a flow sensor.

[0120] The power consumption includes auxiliary losses (power losses required to drive cooling fans, ventilation fans, etc.). The medium generation efficiency indicates the medium generation capacity per unit of energy, and is expressed as the specific energy [kW / (m 3 / min)] with the numerator and denominator reversed. Note that as the outside air temperature rises, the density of the air decreases, so more energy is required for compression. Therefore, the generation efficiency may be corrected for temperature (e.g., converted to 25°C).

[0121] In the case of a steam-driven air compressor, the compressor itself is driven by a steam motor, and steam is a secondary utility, so the input energy is only the amount of auxiliary losses, and the generation efficiency exceeds that of an electric type.

[0122] (3-2) Water treatment equipment If the industrial machine 2 is an RO membrane device, which is a type of water treatment equipment, the input energy [J] and the output medium amount [m 3 ] is expressed by the following formula: Input energy = Power consumption ·Output medium amount = permeated water amount The amount of power consumption is measured using a power sensor, and the amount of permeated water per unit time is measured using a flow sensor.

[0123] The power consumption includes the power required to drive the water supply pump, pressure pump, etc. Note that as the raw water temperature decreases, the viscosity of the water decreases, requiring more energy to transport the water. Therefore, the medium generation efficiency may be temperature-corrected (e.g., converted to 25°C).

[0124] (4) Media conversion efficiency The media conversion efficiency is an index that shows the operational performance value of the industrial machinery 2 used when consuming treated water (modified water such as soft water, pure water, filtered water, etc.) or steam in the demand facility 8. The media generation efficiency is expressed as a percentage, where the input media volume of the primary utility is the denominator and the output media volume of the secondary utility is the numerator. The higher the media conversion efficiency, the greater the effect of reducing running costs (water charges) through water conservation.

[0125] (4-1) Water treatment equipment If industrial machine 2 is an RO membrane device, which is a type of water treatment equipment, the input medium volume [m 3 ] and output media volume [m 3 ] is expressed by the following formula: Input medium volume = raw water volume ·Output medium amount = permeated water amount (= raw water amount - concentrated water amount) The amount of raw water, the amount of permeated water, and the amount of concentrated water per unit time are measured using flow rate sensors.

[0126] Water treatment equipment continuously discharges concentrated water and intermittently discharges regenerated water and wash water during operation, so the utilization rate (recovery rate) of the input water is managed. For example, in an RO membrane system, there is an upper limit to the concentration of concentrated water that can be tolerated to prevent scale buildup. If the raw water quality deteriorates due to factors such as precipitation or poor pretreatment, or if the water temperature, which affects the solubility of scale-forming substances, changes, the amount of concentrated water increases and the medium conversion efficiency of the RO membrane system decreases. Furthermore, if permeate water is recovered after use in demand equipment 8, the recovered water is added to the raw water, and the amount of concentrated water can be reduced by diluting the raw water, improving the medium conversion efficiency of the RO membrane system.

[0127] (4-2) Steam boiler If industrial machine 2 is a steam boiler, the amount of input medium [m 3 ] and output media volume [m 3 ] is expressed by the following formula: Input medium volume = Water supply volume Output medium volume = Steam volume (= Water supply volume - Blow volume) The amount of water supply, steam supply, and blowdown per unit time are measured using flow rate sensors.

[0128] Steam boilers continuously blow out concentrated water during operation, so the utilization rate (recovery rate) of the input water must be managed. There is an upper limit to the concentration of concentrated water that can be tolerated from the standpoint of preventing scale buildup and corrosion, so if the feedwater quality deteriorates, the amount of concentrated water blown out increases, reducing the medium conversion efficiency. Also, if drain recovery is used, the drain water is added to the boiler feedwater, increasing the apparent medium conversion efficiency.

[0129] (5) Media modification efficiency Media reforming efficiency is an indicator of the operational performance of industrial machinery 2 used when consuming treated water (e.g., softened water, purified water, filtered water, etc.) at demand facilities 8. In this example, industrial machinery 2 refers to various types of water treatment equipment. Media reforming efficiency is expressed as a percentage [(ab) / a × 100], where a is the amount of input impurities contained in the primary utility and b is the difference between the amount of input impurities contained in the primary utility and the amount of output impurities contained in the secondary utility. The higher the media reforming efficiency, the better the condition of the water treatment equipment and the greater its effectiveness in sustaining production activities. When raw water containing impurities (dissolved substances, suspended matter, particles) is separated into treated water and residue (liquid-phase concentrate, solid-phase concentrate) through a separation process, the ratio of the amount of impurities in the residue to the amount of impurities in the raw water is called the removal rate. Media reforming efficiency can be considered an indicator of the removal rate.

[0130] When the industrial machine 2 is an RO membrane device, which is a type of water treatment equipment, the input amount of impurities [g] and the output amount of impurities [g] are expressed by the following formulas. Input impurity amount = Amount of impurities in raw water Output impurity amount = Amount of impurities in the permeated water The amount of impurities per unit volume in the raw water and permeated water can be determined by applying a predetermined conversion formula to the measurement value measured using, for example, an EC sensor.

[0131] Generally, if the quality of the raw water deteriorates or if the water treatment materials (separation membranes, filter media, ion exchange resins, etc.) deteriorate or become saturated, the efficiency of media reforming will decrease. The impurities to be removed will differ depending on the type of water treatment equipment. For example, RO membrane equipment removes dissolved salts, so water quality is evaluated using electrical conductivity. Water softeners remove hardness components (calcium ions and magnesium ions). Sand filters remove fine particles in the water.

[0132] [7] Utility Loss Rate The utility loss rate is an index that indicates the degree of loss of thermal energy or medium during the transportation process of secondary utilities. The utility loss rate is the value obtained by subtracting the delivery ratio (= delivered amount / delivered amount) of the amount of thermal energy (steam heat, hot water heat, etc.) or medium (steam amount, compressed air amount, etc.) of secondary utilities sent from industrial machinery 2 to demand equipment 8 from 1, expressed as a percentage. The thermal energy delivery amount and thermal energy delivery amount are detected using the measurement values ​​of temperature sensors and flow rate sensors. The medium delivery amount and medium delivery amount per unit time are measured using a flow rate sensor.

[0133] If insulation deteriorates or peels off in the steam or hot water transport path 22 (including tanks, etc.), heat loss occurs due to heat radiation, resulting in a large utility loss rate. If a steam trap fails in the steam transport path 22, causing condensate to accumulate or steam to leak externally, heat loss occurs due to a drop in steam temperature or partial release, resulting in a large utility loss rate. If pipe sealant deteriorates or the pipe body is damaged in the compressed air transport path 22, leakage loss occurs due to external leakage, resulting in a large utility loss rate. Therefore, by managing the utility loss rate, it becomes possible to determine the need for repairs to the transport path 22.

[0134] [8] Utility utilization rate The utility utilization rate is an index that indicates the reuse level of secondary utilities. The utility utilization rate is the value obtained by subtracting the discharge rate (= discharge amount / supply amount) of secondary utilities used in demand equipment 8 from 1, expressed as a percentage. In other words, the utility utilization rate indicates the proportion of media (thermal fluid, treated water, etc.) used in demand equipment 8 that is reused as primary utilities to be supplied to industrial machinery 2, for example. The media supply amount and media discharge amount per unit time are measured using a flow sensor.

[0135] In a supply and demand system consisting of industrial machinery 2 and demand equipment 8, if there is no disposal of used media, the utility utilization rate is 100%. To give a specific example of utility utilization rate, if the steam drain discharged from demand equipment 8 is not reused as feedwater for the steam boiler, the utility utilization rate is 0%. Also, if hot water generated by a heat pump is circulated to demand equipment 8 to use the heat, the utility utilization rate is 100%. Furthermore, if 20% of the treated water with a reduced water quality level discharged from demand equipment 8 is discarded while 80% is returned as raw water for the water treatment equipment, the utility utilization rate is 80%.

[0136] [9] Diagnosis of the health of industrial machinery Maintenance methods for the industrial machinery 2 include after-maintenance, which is performed after an abnormality occurs in the industrial machinery 2, and before-maintenance, which is performed before an abnormality occurs in the industrial machinery 2. Before-maintenance includes time-based maintenance and condition-based maintenance. Condition-based maintenance is the most preferable maintenance method because it reduces unnecessary work more than time-based maintenance. The industrial machinery diagnosis engine 33 works in conjunction with the utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 and the industrial machinery abnormality detection engine 32 to diagnose the health of the industrial machinery 2, enabling condition-based maintenance to be performed at an earlier timing.

[0137] 6 is a flowchart showing a method for diagnosing the health of the industrial machine 2 according to the embodiment. The utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 derives the input amount of the primary utility and the output amount of the secondary utility in the industrial machine 2 from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate (step S11).

[0138] The utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 calculates the utility conversion efficiency based on the input amount of the primary utility and the output amount of the secondary utility derived in step S11 (step S12).

[0139] The input amount of the primary utility is detected by the first sensor group 51. The output amount of the secondary utility is detected by the second sensor group 52 (sending-side second sensor group 521). The utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 can calculate utility conversion efficiency such as energy efficiency based on the input amount of the primary utility detected by the first sensor group 51 and the output amount of the secondary utility detected by the second sensor group 52.

[0140] The industrial machinery abnormality detection engine 32 extracts condition information of the industrial machinery 2 from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate (step S13).

[0141] The industrial machinery abnormality detection engine 32 detects one or both of a symptom and occurrence of an abnormality in the industrial machinery 2 based on the condition information of the industrial machinery 2 extracted in step S13 (step S14).

[0142] Condition information of the industrial machinery 2 is detected by the third sensor group 53. The industrial machinery anomaly detection engine 32 is set with a plurality of thresholds according to the deviation level of the detected values ​​of the third sensor group 53 from the normal value. The industrial machinery anomaly detection engine 32 detects that there is a sign of an abnormality when the deviation level reaches a lower first threshold. Furthermore, the industrial machinery anomaly detection engine 32 detects that an abnormality has occurred when the deviation level reaches a higher second threshold.

[0143] The industrial machinery diagnosis engine 33 diagnoses the health of the industrial machinery 2 based on one or both of the calculation result of the utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 in step S12 and the detection result of the industrial machinery abnormality detection engine 32 in step S14 (step S15).

[0144] If the utility conversion efficiency is on a downward trend, the industrial machine diagnosis engine 33 diagnoses that the health of the industrial machine 2 is being impaired. If the utility conversion efficiency falls below a reference value, the industrial machine diagnosis engine 33 diagnoses that the health of the industrial machine 2 is being impaired. Furthermore, if signs of an abnormality are detected, the industrial machine diagnosis engine 33 diagnoses that the health of the industrial machine 2 is being impaired. If the occurrence of an abnormality is detected, the industrial machine diagnosis engine 33 diagnoses that the health of the industrial machine 2 is being impaired.

[0145]

[10] Diagnosis of the health of transportation routes As with the industrial machinery 2, it is desirable to perform condition-based maintenance on the transportation route 22 as well. This is because if there is a loss of energy or the medium itself from the industrial machinery 2 to the demand equipment 8, the unnecessary operation of the industrial machinery 2 will increase the operating costs of the factory 4. The transportation route diagnosis engine 36 works in conjunction with the utility loss rate calculation engine 34 and the transportation route anomaly detection engine 35 to diagnose the health of the transportation route 22, making it possible to provide condition-based maintenance at an earlier timing.

[0146] 7 is a flowchart illustrating a method for diagnosing the health of a transportation route 22 according to an embodiment. The utility loss rate calculation engine 34 derives the secondary utility outgoing amount and the secondary utility incoming amount from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate (step S21).

[0147] The utility loss rate calculation engine 34 calculates a utility loss rate based on the secondary utility output amount and the secondary utility delivery amount derived in step S21 (step S22).

[0148] The output amount of the secondary utility is detected by the output-side second sensor group 521. The delivery amount of the secondary utility is detected by the delivery-side second sensor group 522. The utility loss rate calculation engine 34 can calculate the utility loss rate based on the output amount of the secondary utility (energy delivery amount, medium delivery amount) detected by the output-side second sensor group 521 and the delivery amount of the secondary utility (energy delivery amount, medium delivery amount) detected by the delivery-side second sensor group 522.

[0149] The transportation route abnormality detection engine 35 extracts condition information of the transportation route 22 from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate (step S23).

[0150] The transportation route abnormality detection engine 35 detects one or both of a symptom and occurrence of an abnormality in the transportation route 22 based on the condition information of the transportation route 22 extracted in step S23 (step S24).

[0151] Condition information of the transportation route 22 is detected by the sending-side second sensor group 521 and the delivery-side second sensor group 522. The transportation route abnormality detection engine 35 is set with a plurality of thresholds according to the level of deviation between the detection value of the delivery-side second sensor group 522 and the detection value (reference value) of the sending-side second sensor group 521. The transportation route abnormality detection engine 35 detects the presence of signs of an abnormality when the deviation level reaches a lower first threshold. Furthermore, the transportation route abnormality detection engine 35 detects the occurrence of an abnormality when the deviation level reaches a higher second threshold.

[0152] The transportation route diagnosis engine 36 diagnoses the soundness of the transportation route 22 based on one or both of the calculation result of the utility loss rate calculation engine 34 in step S22 and the detection result of the transportation route abnormality detection engine 35 in step S24 (step S25).

[0153] If the utility loss rate is on the rise, the transportation route diagnosis engine 36 diagnoses that the soundness of the transportation route 22 is being impaired. If the utility loss rate exceeds a reference value, the transportation route diagnosis engine 36 diagnoses that the soundness of the transportation route 22 is being impaired. Furthermore, if the transportation route diagnosis engine 36 detects signs of an abnormality, it diagnoses that the soundness of the transportation route 22 is being impaired. If the transportation route diagnosis engine 36 detects the occurrence of an abnormality, it diagnoses that the soundness of the transportation route 22 is being impaired.

[0154]

[11] Evaluation of the effect of improving utility conversion efficiency As described above, in a supply and demand system consisting of industrial machinery 2 and demand facilities 8, the utility utilization rate can be increased by reusing used secondary utilities (media such as thermal fluids and treated water) as primary utilities supplied to industrial machinery 2. Increasing the utility utilization rate has the effect of improving the utility conversion efficiency (energy conversion efficiency, media conversion efficiency).

[0155] Specifically, if the industrial machine 2 is a steam boiler, reusing the steam drain containing sensible heat discharged from the demand facility 8 as boiler feed water will increase the feed water temperature, reducing fuel consumption and improving energy conversion efficiency. In addition, the net amount of water supply (amount of new water replenished) can be reduced, improving medium conversion efficiency.

[0156] If the industrial machine 2 is a heat pump, reusing the waste hot water discharged from the demand facility 8 as make-up water for the heat pump will increase the inlet water temperature, reducing power consumption and improving energy conversion efficiency.If the industrial machine 2 is a water treatment device, reusing the wastewater discharged from the demand facility 8 as raw water for the water treatment device will reduce the net amount of raw water (amount of new water make-up), improving medium conversion efficiency.

[0157] 8 is a flowchart showing a method for evaluating the improvement effect of utility conversion efficiency according to the embodiment. The utility utilization rate calculation engine 37 derives the supply amount of secondary utilities and the discharge amount of secondary utilities in the demand facility 8 from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate (step S31).

[0158] The utility utilization rate calculation engine 37 calculates the utility utilization rate of the demand facility 8 based on the supply amount of the secondary utility and the discharge amount of the secondary utility derived in step S31 (step S32).

[0159] The supply amount of the secondary utility is detected by the delivery-side second sensor group 522. The discharge amount of the secondary utility is detected by the discharge-side second sensor group 54. The utility utilization rate calculation engine 37 can calculate the utility utilization rate based on the supply amount of the secondary utility (medium supply amount) detected by the delivery-side second sensor group 522 and the discharge amount of the secondary utility (medium discharge amount) detected by the discharge-side second sensor group 54.

[0160] The utility conversion efficiency evaluation engine 38 evaluates the effect of improving the utility conversion efficiency by reusing the secondary utility as the primary utility based on the calculation result of the utility utilization rate calculation engine 37 in step S32 (step S33).

[0161] Specifically, when the utility utilization rate is not 0%, i.e., when secondary utilities are reused, the utility conversion efficiency evaluation engine 38 predicts the energy conversion efficiency assuming that the utility utilization rate is 0%. For example, if the industrial machine 2 is a steam boiler, the output energy is calculated from the required output conditions (steam pressure, steam mass) and the feedwater temperature when the utility utilization rate is 0%, and this calculated value is applied to a simulation model (mathematical model) that simulates the operation of a steam boiler to estimate the input energy. Once the calculated output energy and estimated input energy values ​​are obtained, these values ​​are used to predict the energy conversion efficiency. Then, if the difference between the actual energy conversion efficiency calculated separately and the predicted energy conversion efficiency reaches a specified level, the utility conversion efficiency evaluation engine 38 evaluates that there is an improvement in the utility conversion efficiency.

[0162] The utility conversion efficiency evaluation engine 38 may also be configured to predict the utility conversion efficiency when the current utility utilization rate is increased. Specifically, the engine predicts the energy conversion efficiency when the utility utilization rate is changed to a predetermined high level, and if the difference between the predicted energy conversion efficiency and the actual energy conversion efficiency reaches a specified level, it is evaluated that an improvement in the utility conversion efficiency can be expected. If an improvement is expected, this can lead to a proposal for operational improvement to the operator of the factory 4.

[0163]

[12] Effects As described above, in the embodiment, the environmental information collection system 1 for collecting environmental information of a business establishment 3 where industrial machinery 2 is installed includes a sensor group 50 consisting of one or more environmental sensors 5 arranged within the business establishment 3, and a plurality of information processing devices 6 configured to be able to acquire and store the environmental information detected by the sensor group 50 and having a hierarchical structure for transmitting the environmental information from downstream to upstream. The plurality of information processing devices 6 are configured to perform predetermined information processing on the acquired environmental information at any one or more hierarchical levels.

[0164] According to this configuration, a hierarchical structure is formed in which a plurality of information processing devices 6 transmit environmental information detected by the sensor group 50 from downstream to upstream. In any one or more information processing devices 6 of the hierarchical levels, predetermined information processing is executed on the acquired environmental information. Therefore, the load of the required information processing on the collected environmental information can be distributed to the plurality of information processing devices 6.

[0165] In the embodiment, the industrial machine 2 converts a primary utility into a secondary utility that can be used by the demand facility 8. The sensor group 50 includes a first sensor group 51 consisting of one or more environmental sensors 5 provided on the primary utility side, a second sensor group 52 consisting of one or more environmental sensors 5 provided on the secondary utility side, and a third sensor group 53 consisting of one or more environmental sensors 5 provided on the industrial machine 2. According to this configuration, multiple types of environmental information can be collected in real time at required locations in the business premises 3 where the industrial machine 2 is installed, and input / output energy, input / output medium amounts, etc. can be monitored in real time.

[0166] In an embodiment, the predefined information processing includes one or both of a batch process that adjusts time-series environmental information to a required time granularity and a grouping process that integrates multiple types of environmental information into an information aggregate linked to a hierarchical level of industrial activity. This configuration aligns the time granularity of related environmental information and integrates it into an information aggregate, thereby enabling highly accurate and fast calculation results using multiple pieces of environmental information. This also facilitates energy management and demand management.

[0167] In the embodiment, the hierarchical level of industrial activity includes one or more of a machine unit level, a machine group level, a cell level, a line level, a building level, and a business establishment level. According to this configuration, it is possible to generate information aggregates at different hierarchical levels, so that the target scope of energy management and demand management can be set according to the needs of the business operator.

[0168] In an embodiment, the utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 at any one or more levels among the multiple information processing devices 6 derives the input amount of the primary utility and the output amount of the secondary utility from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and calculates the utility conversion efficiency based on these input amounts and output amounts. According to this configuration, the utility conversion efficiency obtained by the utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 can be used as an index showing the operating performance value of the industrial machine 2 (utility conversion machine or tool).

[0169] In an embodiment, an industrial machinery anomaly detection engine 32 at one or more levels among the plurality of information processing devices 6 extracts condition information of the industrial machinery 2 from environmental information integrated into an information aggregate, and based on this condition information, detects one or both of signs and occurrence of an abnormality in the industrial machinery 2. According to this configuration, by detecting an abnormality in the industrial machinery 2, particularly the signs thereof, it is possible to take measures (condition-based maintenance, etc.) to suppress a decrease in the availability rate of the industrial machinery 2.

[0170] In the embodiment, the industrial machine diagnosis engine 33 at one or more levels among the plurality of information processing devices 6 diagnoses the health of the industrial machine 2 based on one or both of the calculation results of the utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 and the detection results of the industrial machine anomaly detection engine 32. According to this configuration, the industrial machine diagnosis engine 33 diagnoses the health of the industrial machine 2 in cooperation with the utility conversion efficiency calculation engine 31 and the industrial machine anomaly detection engine 32. This makes it possible to provide condition-based maintenance to the industrial machine 2 at an earlier timing.

[0171] In an embodiment, a utility loss rate calculation engine 34 at any one or more levels among the plurality of information processing devices 6 derives the sent and delivered amounts of secondary utilities from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and calculates the utility loss rate for the transportation route 22 based on these sent and delivered amounts. According to this configuration, the utility loss rate obtained by the utility loss rate calculation engine 34 is used as an index showing the degree of loss of thermal energy and medium in the transportation process of the secondary utilities, and is used as information for determining the need for repairs to the transportation route 22.

[0172] In an embodiment, a transport route anomaly detection engine 35 at one or more levels among the plurality of information processing devices 6 extracts condition information of the transport route 22 from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and based on this condition information, detects one or both of signs and occurrence of an anomaly on the transport route 22. According to this configuration, by detecting an anomaly on the transport route 22, particularly the signs thereof, it is possible to take measures (such as condition-based maintenance) to suppress delivery failures of secondary utilities.

[0173] In an embodiment, a transport route diagnosis engine 36 at one or more levels among the plurality of information processing devices 6 diagnoses the soundness of the transport route 22 based on one or both of the calculation results of the utility loss rate calculation engine 34 and the detection results of the transport route anomaly detection engine 35. According to this configuration, the transport route diagnosis engine 36 diagnoses the soundness of the transport route 22 in cooperation with the utility loss rate calculation engine 34 and the transport route anomaly detection engine 35. This makes it possible to provide condition-based maintenance for the transport route 22 at an earlier timing.

[0174] In an embodiment, the utility utilization rate calculation engine 37 at any one or more levels among the plurality of information processing devices 6 derives the supply and discharge amounts of secondary utilities from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and calculates the utility utilization rate at the demand facility 8 based on these supply and discharge amounts. According to this configuration, the utility utilization rate can be used as an index showing the reuse level of secondary utilities.

[0175] In the embodiment, the utility conversion efficiency evaluation engine 38 of one or more hierarchical levels among the plurality of information processing devices 6 evaluates the effect of improving utility conversion efficiency by reusing the secondary utility as the primary utility based on the calculation result of the utility utilization rate calculation engine 37. With this configuration, it is possible to objectively determine the validity of the operational performance of the industrial machine 2 and the need for operational improvement.

[0176]

[13] Other embodiments In the above-described embodiment, the industrial controller 61, which is a lower-level information processing device to which the environmental sensor 5 is connected, includes a microcomputer 61A and a programmable logic controller 61B. The lower-level information processing device to which the environmental sensor 5 is connected may also include a water quality measurement controller. The water quality measurement controller is a device that controls the measurement operation of a colorimetric water quality meter that uses a colorimetric reagent. The water quality measurement controller collects environmental information (water quality measurement values) in real time at preset measurement intervals. The water quality measurement controller is equipped with a light-emitting element and a light-receiving element for each measurement cell, converts the analog signal from the light-receiving element into digital data, and then determines the measurement value by referring to a concentration determination table. The water quality measurement controller has a communication interface 13 and can transmit environmental information to an intermediate information processing device via a communication network. Note that the environmental information may also be transmitted to a specific industrial machine (water treatment equipment) and used at the receiving end for operational control. Note that the measurement interval varies depending on the water quality item, so the time granularity of the environmental information (water quality measurement values) ranges from 0.5 to 24 hours.

[0177] <Contribution to the United Nations-led Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)> The environmental information collection system disclosed herein can collect a wide range of environmental information from industrial machinery and demand facilities, and can be used for energy management and demand management. This can improve the energy efficiency of business establishments, including factories, and contribute to the realization of Goal 7 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), "Affordable and clean energy." Furthermore, improved energy efficiency can also reduce carbon dioxide emissions, contributing to the realization of Goal 13, "Take urgent action to combat climate change." [Explanation of symbols]

[0178] 1...environmental information collection system, 2...industrial machinery, 2A...first industrial machinery, 2B...second industrial machinery, 3...business establishment, 3A...first business establishment, 3B...second business establishment, 3C...third business establishment, 4...factory, 4A...first factory, 4B...second factory, 5...environmental sensor, 6...information processing device, 7...data collection terminal, 8...demand equipment, 10...computer, 11...processor, 12...storage device, 13...communication interface, 14...input / output interface, 21...supply route, 22...transport route, 23...emission route, 31...utility conversion efficiency calculation engine, 32...industrial machinery abnormality detection engine, 33...industrial machinery diagnosis engine, 34...utility loss rate calculation engine gin, 35...transportation route abnormality detection engine, 36...transportation route diagnosis engine, 37...utility utilization rate calculation engine, 38...utility conversion efficiency evaluation engine, 50...sensor group, 51...first sensor group, 52...second sensor group, 53...third sensor group, 54...discharge side second sensor group, 61...industrial controller, 61A...microcomputer, 61B...programmable logic controller, 62...edge computer, 63...gateway, 64...guest computer, 65...host computer, 521...send side second sensor group (supply side second sensor group), 522...delivery side second sensor group (supply side second sensor group).

Claims

1. An environmental information collection system for collecting environmental information of a business establishment where industrial machinery is installed, A sensor group consisting of one or more environmental sensors arranged within the business premises; a plurality of information processing devices configured to be able to acquire and store environmental information detected by the group of sensors, and having a hierarchical structure for transmitting the environmental information from downstream to upstream, The plurality of information processing devices are configured to execute, in any one or more layers, predetermined information processing on the acquired environmental information. Environmental information collection system.

2. Industrial machinery converts primary utilities into secondary utilities that can be used by demand facilities. The sensor group is a first sensor group consisting of one or more environmental sensors provided on the primary utility side; a second sensor group consisting of one or more environmental sensors provided on the secondary utility side; a third sensor group consisting of one or more environmental sensors provided in the industrial machine; The environmental information collection system according to claim 1 .

3. The predefined information processing includes one or both of a batch processing for adjusting the time-series environmental information to a required time granularity and a grouping processing for integrating a plurality of different types of environmental information into an information aggregate linked to a hierarchical level of industrial activity.

3. The environmental information collection system according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The hierarchical level of the industrial activity includes one or more hierarchical levels of a single machine level, a group of machines level, a cell level, a line level, a building level, and a business establishment level. The environmental information collection system according to claim 3 .

5. a utility conversion efficiency calculation engine that derives an input amount of a primary utility and an output amount of a secondary utility from environmental information integrated into an information aggregate, in one or more layers of the plurality of information processing devices, and calculates a utility conversion efficiency based on the input amount and the output amount; The environmental information collection system according to claim 4 .

6. an industrial machine anomaly detection engine is provided in one or more layers of any of the plurality of information processing devices, which extracts condition information of the industrial machine from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and detects one or both of a sign of an abnormality and the occurrence of an abnormality in the industrial machine based on the condition information; The environmental information collection system according to claim 4 .

7. In one or more layers of the plurality of information processing devices, a utility conversion efficiency calculation engine that derives input amounts of primary utilities and output amounts of secondary utilities from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and calculates utility conversion efficiency based on these input amounts and output amounts; an industrial machinery anomaly detection engine that extracts condition information of the industrial machinery from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate and detects one or both of a sign of an abnormality and the occurrence of an abnormality in the industrial machinery based on the condition information; an industrial machinery diagnosis engine that diagnoses the health of the industrial machinery based on one or both of the calculation result of the utility conversion efficiency calculation engine and the detection result of the industrial machinery anomaly detection engine; The environmental information collection system according to claim 4 .

8. the second sensor group includes a sending-side second sensor group arranged closer to the industrial machine on a transportation route for delivering the secondary utility sent from the industrial machine to the demand facility, and a delivery-side second sensor group arranged closer to the demand facility; a utility loss rate calculation engine that, at one or more levels among the plurality of information processing devices, derives a sending amount and a delivery amount of a secondary utility from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and calculates a utility loss rate in a transportation route based on the sending amount and the delivery amount; The environmental information collection system according to claim 4 .

9. the second sensor group includes a sending-side second sensor group arranged closer to the industrial machine on a transportation route for delivering the secondary utility sent from the industrial machine to the demand facility, and a delivery-side second sensor group arranged closer to the demand facility; a transport route abnormality detection engine that extracts transport route condition information from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate in one or more layers of the plurality of information processing devices and detects one or both of a sign of an abnormality and the occurrence of an abnormality on the transport route based on the condition information; The environmental information collection system according to claim 4 .

10. the second sensor group includes a sending-side second sensor group arranged closer to the industrial machine on a transportation route for delivering the secondary utility sent from the industrial machine to the demand facility, and a delivery-side second sensor group arranged closer to the demand facility; In one or more layers of the plurality of information processing devices, a utility loss rate calculation engine that derives the amount of secondary utility transmission and the amount of delivery from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate, and calculates the utility loss rate along the transportation route based on the amount of transmission and the amount of delivery; a transport route anomaly detection engine that extracts condition information of the transport route from the environmental information integrated into the information aggregate and detects one or both of signs and occurrences of anomalies on the transport route based on the condition information; a transportation route diagnosis engine that diagnoses the soundness of the transportation route based on one or both of the calculation result of the utility loss rate calculation engine and the detection result of the transportation route abnormality detection engine; The environmental information collection system according to claim 4 .

11. the second sensor group includes, in a demand facility that uses the secondary utility, a supply-side second sensor group arranged upstream of the demand facility and a discharge-side second sensor group arranged downstream of the demand facility; a utility utilization rate calculation engine that, at one or more levels among the plurality of information processing devices, derives supply amounts and discharge amounts of secondary utilities from environmental information integrated into an information aggregate, and calculates utility utilization rates in demand facilities based on the supply amounts and discharge amounts; The environmental information collection system according to claim 4 .

12. a utility conversion efficiency evaluation engine for evaluating an improvement effect of utility conversion efficiency by reusing a secondary utility as a primary utility based on a calculation result of the utility utilization rate calculation engine in one or more layers of the plurality of information processing devices; The environmental information collection system according to claim 11.

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