Management system for multiple devices and method for managing multiple devices

Abstract

To provide a management system for multiple devices and a method for managing multiple devices that can improve the work efficiency when performing management tasks. [Solution] When, for example, the user selects and enters a "model" option from the map display screen of the target area 10, steam traps of the same model are grouped into one group, and this grouping is displayed in frames 56 and 58. If the frame display is duplicated, the frame representing one group is split, and the association is displayed in related lines 57 and 59, indicating that they belong to the same group. If the user re-enters other selection items, the new grouping is immediately displayed. This allows the administrator to freely switch the grouping of steam traps to be worked on, select the optimal grouping according to the work situation, and improve the work efficiency of replacement work.

Description

Technical Field

[0004]

[0001] The management system for a plurality of devices and the management method for a plurality of devices according to the present application relate to a technology for managing a plurality of devices arranged in a predetermined management area.

Background Art

[0002] As for a management system for a plurality of devices and a management method for a plurality of devices, there is a device management system described in Patent Document 1 below. In this device management system, a state detector 2 is provided for each of a large number of steam controllers 1 installed in a plant, and data on the temperature and vibration of the steam controller 1 is periodically transmitted through a communication device.

[0003] <00​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​However, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 mentioned above only identifies the equipment to be worked on individually and extracts a work pattern that focuses only on that equipment. Since plants usually have a large number of related pieces of equipment installed, it can be difficult to efficiently work on a large number of pieces of equipment if the work and maintenance are managed individually, and further efficiency improvements have been desired.

[0007] Therefore, the objective of the present invention is to provide a management system for multiple devices and a method for managing multiple devices that can improve the work efficiency when performing management. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The management system for multiple devices relating to this application is Multiple devices located in a designated management area, Basic information storage means that stores basic information representing multiple characteristics of each of the aforementioned devices, A grouping means that performs grouping of devices that match a selection command, which is input from an external source and specifies the basic information, and which performs a grouping switch when the selection command is updated and re-input. It is characterized by having the following features.

[0009] Furthermore, the method for managing multiple devices related to this application is: It stores basic information representing multiple characteristics of multiple devices placed in a designated management area. A selection command is input from an external source, and according to the selection command specifying the basic information, the devices that match the selection command are grouped into one group. When the aforementioned selection command is updated and re-entered, the grouping is switched. It is characterized by the following: [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] In the management system and method for managing multiple devices according to this application, devices that match a selection command, which is input from an external source and specifies basic information, are grouped into a single group. Therefore, by inputting a selection command from an external source, multiple devices to be managed can be identified as a group, and management such as construction and maintenance can be carried out for each group. Consequently, the work efficiency when performing management can be improved.

[0011] Furthermore, when the selection command is updated and re-entered, the grouping is switched. Therefore, by updating and re-entering the selection command from an external source, it becomes possible to select a more appropriate grouping and then perform management. Consequently, the efficiency of management operations can be further improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a management system, which is a first embodiment of the management system and method for managing multiple devices according to the present application. [Figure 2] This figure shows the contents of the individual data stored in the individual data storage area 27a shown in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Figure 1 shows a flowchart of the process for determining the construction target, which is performed by the control unit 23. [Figure 4] This diagram shows the risk of failure for each steam trap installed in the plant. [Figure 5] This diagram shows a screen displaying a map of the plant's target area 10, illustrating the state where the construction targets are displayed. [Figure 6] Figure 1 shows a flowchart of the grouping process performed by the control unit 23. [Figure 7] This diagram shows a screen displaying a map of the plant's target area 10, and illustrates the grouping displayed when the "Model" selection item is selected. [Figure 8]FIG. is a diagram showing a screen on which a map of the target area 10 of the plant is displayed, and shows a state in which grouping is displayed when the selection item "pipe size" is selected. [Figure 9] FIG. is a diagram showing the content of the construction plan created based on the grouping. [Figure 10] FIG. is a diagram showing a screen on which a map of the target area 10 of the plant in the second embodiment of the management system and method for a plurality of devices according to the present application is displayed, and shows a state in which grouping is displayed. [Figure 11] FIG. is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the management system which is the third embodiment of the management system and method for a plurality of devices according to the present application. [Figure 12] FIG. is a flowchart of the grouping process executed by the control unit 23 shown in FIG. 11. [Figure 13] FIG. is a diagram showing a screen on which a map of the target area 10 of the plant is displayed, and shows a state in which grouping is displayed when the selection item "type" is selected.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0013] [TERM EXPLANATION IN THE EMBODIMENT] The main terms shown in the embodiment respectively correspond to the following elements of the management system and method for a plurality of devices according to the present application.

[0014] Steam trap (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 004, 005, 006, 007, 008, 009, 010, 011, 012) ··· Equipment Target area 10 ··· Management area Group generation unit 26 ··· Grouping means Individual data storage area 27a ··· Basic information storage means Limited area reference storage area 27e ··· Location range reference storage means Selection input area 30 ··· Selection button display Terminal device 71, tablet terminal device 72 ··· Display means Terminal device 71, tablet terminal device 72, printer 73...work plan output means Multiple steam trap replacement work management system... Management system for multiple devices Individual data (identification number, model, installation location, pipe size, manufacturer, pressure range, importance, application, installation date, failure history or repair history, etc.) ... Basic information Selection options...Selection command Limited area criteria... geographical range criteria Installation location...Location information Steam traps, automatic valves, manual valves... Steam-related equipment Construction plan...work plan

[0015] [First Embodiment] A first embodiment of the management system for multiple devices and the method for managing multiple devices according to the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, as an example of managing multiple devices, a management system for replacement work targeting a large number of steam traps installed in the piping system of a plant will be given.

[0016] Plants sometimes have piping systems that transport steam generated in boilers to various devices within the plant, as steam is used as a heat source. The transported steam loses latent heat through use in the various devices and heat dissipation during transport, and condenses to produce drain (condensed water).

[0017] If this condensate accumulates in the piping system, it will obstruct steam transfer, so it is necessary to discharge the generated condensate to the outside of the piping system as needed. For this purpose, steam traps are installed at various points in the piping system. There are various types of steam traps, but in this embodiment, a free-float type steam trap is given as an example.

[0018] A free-float steam trap has a hollow float positioned in a valve chamber within the main body, allowing it to float freely. At the bottom of the valve chamber is a valve seat with an orifice formed therein for draining condensate to the outside. Under normal conditions, the float sits on this valve seat by its own weight, and the outer surface of the float contacts the orifice, blocking it and preventing steam leakage.

[0019] When condensate generated in the piping flows into the valve chamber of the steam trap, the float rises as the condensate level increases, separating from the valve seat and opening the orifice. As a result, the condensate in the valve chamber is automatically discharged to the outside through the orifice, due to the pressure from the piping system. After the condensate is discharged, the float descends and re-seats onto the valve seat, closing the orifice and shutting off the steam trap.

[0020] As described above, steam traps repeatedly open and close in accordance with the amount of drain water flowing in. This can lead to deformation of the float or damage to the orifice due to wear and tear or aging. Therefore, regular maintenance is necessary, and the steam trap itself or its components should be replaced as needed.

[0021] (Description of the overall system configuration) The overall system configuration in this embodiment will be explained based on the block diagram in Figure 1. Numerous steam traps (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, etc.) are installed at various points in the piping system within the plant.

[0022] Each steam trap (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, etc.) is equipped with a sensor that detects vibration and temperature. This sensor is used to monitor for malfunctions in each steam trap. Specifically, if a steam trap is leaking, detecting the vibration of the leaking sound will allow the system to identify the steam leak and its potential danger. Similarly, if a steam trap is clogged with orifice, the accumulated condensate will lower the temperature of the trap. Detecting this temperature drop will allow the system to identify the orifice blockage and its potential danger.

[0023] Each steam trap (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, etc.) has a sensor attached to it that has wireless communication capabilities and periodically transmits vibration and temperature detection signals. As shown in Figure 1, these detection signals are received by the receiving unit 21, and the determination unit 22 determines the risk of failure of each steam trap based on the detection signals, and the determination result is input to the control unit 23. Note that the vibration and temperature data of each steam trap may not be automatically transmitted by the attached sensors, but rather collected manually from each steam trap by an operator using a portable sensor and registered in the system.

[0024] The control unit 23 is connected to a terminal device 71 and a tablet terminal device 72, both of which have displays, via an input unit 24 and an output unit 25. The control unit 23 displays predetermined information on the displays of the terminal device 71 and the tablet terminal device 72 via the output unit 25. A printer 73 is connected to the terminal device 71.

[0025] Commands input from terminal device 71 and tablet terminal device 72 are received by control unit 23 via input unit 24. The tablet terminal device 72 is wirelessly connected to input unit 24 and output unit 25, allowing the technician to carry the tablet terminal device 72 during replacement work.

[0026] Furthermore, a group generation unit 26 and a storage unit 27 are connected to the control unit 23. The storage unit 27 has an individual data storage area 27a that stores individual data for each steam trap (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, etc.), a map data storage area 27b that stores plant map data, a failure risk table format storage area 27c that stores the format of the failure risk table, and a construction plan format storage area 27d that stores the format of the construction plan.

[0027] Figure 2 shows the contents of the individual data stored in the individual data storage area 27a of the memory unit 27. As shown in Figure 2, individual data is created for each individual steam trap and consists of data including "identification number," "model," "installation location," "pipe size," "manufacturer," "pressure range," "importance," "purpose," and "installation date." In addition, the individual data also includes data such as the failure history and repair history of each steam trap (not shown).

[0028] In this context, "Installation Location" indicates the location where the steam trap is installed within the plant's target area, and the location is specified by latitude and longitude. Note that the latitude and longitude values ​​shown in Figure 2 are illustrative and do not represent the actual placement.

[0029] The installation location can be determined by measuring the latitude and longitude of each steam trap when it is installed in the piping system and recording it as individual data. Alternatively, the latitude and longitude of only a specific reference point in the target area can be measured and recorded first, and then the latitude and longitude of each steam trap can be calculated and recorded based on its positional relationship with this reference point on an area map.

[0030] In other words, since the connection points of the piping where steam traps are installed can be identified and displayed on the area map of the target area, the latitude and longitude of the steam traps can be automatically calculated and recorded based on the positional relationship between the reference point and the connection point, as well as the map scale. This eliminates the need to individually measure the latitude and longitude of each steam trap, thus reducing the effort required for data recording.

[0031] Within the individual data, "Pipe Size" represents the diameter (designation A) of the pipe at the location where the steam trap is installed. "Pressure Zone" indicates the pressure zone of the steam used within the piping at the steam trap's installation location. "Importance" represents the importance of the steam trap's role, i.e., the degree of loss if the steam trap fails, displayed in three levels from "1" (highest importance) to "3" (lowest importance). "Application" indicates whether the piping at the steam trap's installation location is a main pipe or a relatively small-diameter trace pipe.

[0032] (Explanation of the process for determining the scope of construction work) In the construction management system according to this embodiment, the system first determines which steam traps to be replaced from among the many steam traps installed in the target area of ​​the plant. The system inputs the determination of which steam traps to be replaced based on the risk (probability) of steam trap failure. Figure 3 shows a flowchart of the program executed by the control unit 23 regarding this determination of which steam traps to be replaced.

[0033] First, the control unit 23 instructs the determination unit 22 to determine the risk of failure for each steam trap (step S11). As mentioned above, the sensors of the numerous steam traps (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, etc.) installed in the target area periodically emit vibration and temperature detection signals, and these detection signals are received by the determination unit 22 via the receiving unit 21.

[0034] The determination unit 22, based on commands given by the control unit 23, grasps the vibration and temperature fluctuations of each steam trap, and further considers data such as failure history and repair history to determine the risk of failure for each steam trap. As mentioned above, the failure history and repair history data for each steam trap are stored in the individual data storage area 27a of the storage unit 27, and the determination unit 22 receives this data through the control unit 23.

[0035] The risk level of failure for each steam trap determined by the determination unit 22 is input to the control unit 23. The control unit 23 then retrieves the failure risk table format data stored in the failure risk table format storage area 27c of the storage unit 27, adds the risk level of the current failure to it, and displays it as a list on the display of the terminal device 71 or tablet terminal device 72 (steps S12, S13).

[0036] Figure 4 shows the display content for the risk of failure. In this embodiment, an example is shown in which 12 steam traps, identified as 001 to 012, are installed in the target area of ​​the plant. In this embodiment, the risk level of failure is displayed in a table showing the risk level and a bar graph, so that the manager can more easily and reliably recognize the risk level of failure for each steam trap.

[0037] The administrator refers to the contents of Figure 4 displayed on the displays of terminal device 71 and tablet terminal device 72 to determine and decide which steam traps are subject to replacement work. For example, if the administrator decides that all steam traps with a failure risk of 40% or higher are subject to replacement work, the administrator would input the instruction "40% or higher" from terminal device 71 or tablet terminal device 72. This input is made by sliding the threshold line displayed on the bar graph of failure risk, as shown in Figure 4.

[0038] In the example shown in Figure 4, the steam traps with a failure risk of "40% or more" that are subject to repair are the 10 steam traps with identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 004, 005, 006, 008, 009, 011, and 012, while the two steam traps with identification numbers 007 and 010 are not subject to this repair.

[0039] The control unit 23 recognizes the input of the construction target from the administrator (step S14) and retrieves the map data stored in the map data storage area 27b of the storage unit 27. This map data contains a map of the target area with 12 steam trap icons and identification numbers already placed on it.

[0040] The control unit 23 processes this map data so that the steam traps subject to the construction work and those not subject to the work are clearly distinguished, and displays the map, which clearly indicates the steam traps subject to the construction work, on the display of the terminal device 71 or the tablet terminal device 72 (step S15). Figure 5 shows the content displayed on the display.

[0041] As shown in Figure 5, the icons for the steam traps subject to construction within the target area 10 (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 004, 005, 006, 008, 009, 011, 012) are shown with solid lines, while the icons for the steam traps not subject to construction (007, 010) are shown with dashed lines. This clearly distinguishes between the two and clearly identifies the steam traps subject to construction.

[0042] Furthermore, other methods can be used to distinguish between steam traps that are subject to construction and those that are not. For example, differences in icon intensity can be set, with the icons for steam traps subject to construction displayed relatively darker and those for non-subjects displayed relatively lighter. Alternatively, differences in icon size can be set, with the icons for steam traps subject to construction displayed relatively larger and those for non-subjects displayed relatively smaller.

[0043] (Explanation of grouping process) By displaying a map of the target area 10, as shown in Figure 5, on the displays of terminal devices 71 and tablet terminal devices 72, it becomes clear which steam traps are subject to construction and which are not, enabling smooth construction work. In this embodiment, however, in order to further improve work efficiency, the steam traps subject to construction are grouped together.

[0044] Figure 6 shows a flowchart of the grouping process program executed by the control unit 23. First, the control unit 23 determines whether or not a selection item has been entered (step S21). As shown in the display in Figure 5, the selection item area 30 is displayed on the display of the terminal device 71 or the tablet terminal device 72. In this embodiment, this selection item area 30 includes button displays for model icon 31, pipe size icon 32, manufacturer icon 33, pressure range icon 34, importance icon 35, application icon 36, and usage period icon 37.

[0045] The administrator selects and enters the items they want to group from the display shown on the screen. For example, if the administrator selects "Model" and enters the model icon 31, the control unit 23 recognizes this input and instructs the group generation unit 26 to group steam traps that share the same selected item "Model" (step S22). In this case, the group generation unit 26 receives individual data for each steam trap through the control unit 23 and identifies steam traps that share the same selected item.

[0046] In this embodiment, of the 10 steam traps to be worked on (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 004, 005, 006, 008, 009, 011, 012), 7 steam traps (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 004, 008, 009, 011) share the model number "ST3-JH," while 3 steam traps (identification numbers 005, 006, 012) share the model number "T4800-31Z" (see Figure 2). Therefore, the steam traps to be worked on are divided into two groups.

[0047] The control unit 23 receives the grouping result from the group generation unit 26, processes the map data so that the grouping is clearly distinguishable, and displays the distinction on the display of the terminal device 71 or tablet terminal device 72 (step S23). Figure 7 shows the content of the grouping distinction display on the display.

[0048] As shown in Figure 7, the two groups are each given a common grouping indicator. In this embodiment, different elliptical frames 51 and 52 are used as grouping indicators, and they are distinguished by differences in the thickness, size, and angle of the frame lines. Frame 51 shows a group of seven steam traps of model "ST3-JH" (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 004, 008, 009, 011), and frame 52 shows three steam traps of model "T4800-31Z" (identification numbers 005, 006, 012).

[0049] By visually inspecting this display on the screen, administrators can easily and reliably understand how each type of steam trap is positioned within the target area 10, thereby improving the efficiency of replacement work. In the example in Figure 7, the design of the border lines (thickness, size, angle) is used to distinguish them, but as an alternative example, the steam traps could be grouped by varying the color, shade, size, or shape of the steam trap icons themselves.

[0050] In this embodiment, the administrator can freely switch groupings by updating and re-selecting the selected items. In this case, the control unit 23 will repeat the process from S21 to S23 in the flowchart shown in Figure 6. For example, if the administrator selects and inputs the "pipe size" selection item (pipe size icon 32) in the selection item area 30 from the "model" selection item (model icon 31) shown in Figure 7, the control unit 23 will immediately switch the display on the display as shown in Figure 8.

[0051] In other words, of the 10 steam traps to be worked on (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 004, 005, 006, 008, 009, 011, 012), 5 steam traps (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 005, 011) share a common pipe size of "65A", 3 steam traps (identification numbers 008, 009, 012) share a common pipe size of "50A", and 2 steam traps (identification numbers 004, 006) share a common pipe size of "40A" (see Figure 2). Therefore, the steam traps to be worked on can be divided into three groups.

[0052] As shown in Figure 8, frame 53 shows a group of five steam traps with pipe size "65A" (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 005, 011), frame 54 shows three steam traps with pipe size "50A" (identification numbers 008, 009, 012), and frame 55 shows two steam traps with pipe size "40A" (identification numbers 004, 006).

[0053] The administrator can also switch the grouping method by selecting and entering one of the following as other selection items in the selection area 30: "Manufacturer" (manufacturer icon 33), "Pressure Zone" (pressure zone icon 34), "Importance" (importance icon 35), "Purpose" (purpose icon 36), and "Usage Period" (usage period icon 37). If "Usage Period" (usage period icon 37) is entered, the control unit 23 retrieves the installation date of each steam trap subject to construction from the individual data storage area 27a of the storage unit 27 and calculates the "usage period" based on the current year, month, and day. When grouping, for example, usage periods that are common in units of one year are processed as belonging to the same group.

[0054] In this way, administrators can freely switch the grouping method of the steam traps to be worked on by re-entering and specifying the selection items, allowing them to select the optimal grouping according to the work situation and improve the efficiency of the replacement work.

[0055] Now, let's assume the administrator selects "Model" (Model icon 31) as a selection item and confirms it. After confirming the grouping, the administrator selects the construction plan output icon 40 on the display and inputs the information. The control unit 23 recognizes this input and retrieves the construction plan format data from the construction plan format storage area 27d of the storage unit 27, and creates a construction plan for each group as shown in Figure 9. The construction plan in Figure 9 is the construction plan for the group related to model "ST3-JH" displayed in frame 51 of Figure 7.

[0056] As shown in Figure 9, the construction plan includes the "identification number," "model," and "construction details" of the steam traps belonging to this group. If other selection items are specified, the specified selection items will be displayed instead of the "model." Other individual data (Figure 2) can also be displayed simultaneously.

[0057] In this embodiment, additional information such as "parts to be brought" and "necessary tools" required for the construction work is also displayed. The construction plan created for each group can be printed out from a printer (Figure 1), attached to the parts packaged for each group, and brought to the construction site in the target area 10.

[0058] The construction worker can carry out the parts replacement work reliably while referring to the construction plan. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the construction worker can bring the tablet terminal device 72 to the target area 10 to confirm the location of the steam traps to be replaced. Therefore, the efficiency of the replacement work can be improved.

[0059] [Second Embodiment] Next, a second embodiment of the management system for multiple devices and the method for managing multiple devices according to the present invention will be described. The basic configuration of the system in this embodiment is the same as the system in the first embodiment described above, and the block diagram showing the entire system (Figures 1 and 2), the process for determining the construction target (Figures 3, 4, and 5), the flowchart of the grouping process program (Figure 6), and the construction plan to be created (Figure 9) are common to the first embodiment.

[0060] In the grouping process in the first embodiment described above, the control unit 23 displayed a grouped display on the display as shown in Figure 7 or Figure 8 at step S23 of the flowchart (Figure 6). In this embodiment, instead of the grouped display in Figure 7 or Figure 8, a display as shown in Figure 10 is performed. In the grouped display in the first embodiment shown in Figure 7 or Figure 8, frames 51, 52 (Figure 7) or frames 53, 54, 55 (Figure 8) corresponding to the grouping are added to each steam trap to be worked on.

[0061] In contrast, in this embodiment, one or more steam traps belonging to the same group are displayed together in the same frame. Figure 10 shows the display when "Model" is selected as the selection item. Frame 56 shows a group of seven steam traps of model "ST3-JH" (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 004, 008, 009, 011), and frame 58 shows three steam traps of model "T4800-31Z" (identification numbers 005, 006, 012). However, when displaying steam traps together in the same frame, if there is overlap with the frames of other groups, the frames showing the same model are divided and displayed as shown in Figure 10.

[0062] In other words, if we were to display all seven steam traps with identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 004, 008, 009, and 011 together in a single frame 56, it would overlap with frame 58, making the grouping unclear. Therefore, frame 56 is divided into two sections: four steam traps with identification numbers 001, 002, 003, and 004, and three steam traps with identification numbers 008, 009, and 011. To indicate that the two divided frames 56 belong to the same group, they are connected and associated using a related line 57.

[0063] Similarly, frame 58 is divided and displayed into two steam traps with identification numbers 005 and 006, and one steam trap with identification number 012. To indicate that the two frames 58 belong to the same group, they are connected and associated with each other using a related line 59.

[0064] In this embodiment, the grouping was shown using frames 56 and 58 with different designs. However, as with the first embodiment described above, the grouping could also be shown by varying the color, shade, size, or shape of the steam trap icon itself. In this embodiment, the divided frames were connected by association lines 57 and 59 to indicate that they belong to the same group. However, other displays could be used to indicate the relationship between the divided frames.

[0065] As described above, in this embodiment, one or more steam traps belonging to the same group are grouped together and displayed in the same frame, etc. Furthermore, when the frame, etc. is divided, the divided frames, etc. are connected and associated using related lines, etc., to clearly indicate that they belong to the same group. As a result, the grouping can be grasped at a glance, and the work efficiency when managing replacement work, etc. can be improved more reliably.

[0066] [Third Embodiment] Next, a third embodiment of the management system for multiple devices and the method for managing multiple devices according to the present invention will be described. In this embodiment, the grouping by selection items such as "model" shown in the first embodiment is further subdivided and grouped according to predetermined spatial ranges.

[0067] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the system according to this embodiment. The basic configuration is the same as the block diagram of the first embodiment (Figures 1 and 2), and the same reference numerals are used for the same components, and their descriptions are omitted.

[0068] The configuration of this embodiment differs from that of the first embodiment in that the memory unit 27 includes a limited area reference memory area 27e that stores the limited area reference. In this embodiment, a circular reference area is used as the limited area reference, and four types of reference areas with diameters of 10m, 15m, 20m, and 30m are set.

[0069] The process for determining the construction target in this embodiment is the same as the process in the first embodiment described above (Figures 3, 4, and 5), so no explanation is given. Figure 12 shows a flowchart of the grouping process program in this embodiment. Steps S31 and S32 are the same as steps S21 and S22 of the grouping process in the first embodiment. When the control unit 23 receives input of a selection item (or limited area criterion) (step S31), it instructs the group generation unit 26 to group steam traps that share the same selection item into the same group (step S32). If "model" is selected as the selection item, then at this stage, a group similar to that in the first embodiment shown in Figure 7 will be generated.

[0070] Subsequently, in this embodiment, the control unit 23 subdivides the group of steam traps to be constructed according to the limited area criteria in the group generation unit 26 (step S33). In this embodiment, the range selection area 45 is displayed on the display of the terminal device 71 or the tablet terminal device 72, and one of the following is selected from the pull-down list 46 as the circular reference area for the limited area criteria: diameter 10m, diameter 15m, diameter 20m, or diameter 30m. Here, it is assumed that a circular reference area with a diameter of 10m is selected.

[0071] Specifically, the group generation unit 26 groups together steam traps that match the selected item (common selection item "model") and are located within the limited area criterion (circular criterion area with a diameter of 10 m). Then, the control unit 23 adds a different classification display to each group and displays a map of the target area 10 on the display of the terminal device 71 or tablet terminal device 72 (step S34). This display is shown in Figure 13.

[0072] As shown in Figure 13, seven steam traps (identification numbers 001, 002, 003, 004, 008, 009, and 011) that share the common model number "ST3-JH" are subdivided into four sections within a circular reference area 61 with a diameter of 10 m. Because the four subdivided sections are enclosed within a circular reference area 61 of the same design, it is easy to recognize that all the steam traps within the circular reference area 61 are of the same model number "ST3-JH".

[0073] Furthermore, three steam traps (identification numbers 005, 006, and 012) with the common model number "T4800-31Z" are subdivided into two sections within a circular reference area 66 with a diameter of 10 m. These two sections are also enclosed within the same circular reference area 66, making it easy to recognize that all steam traps within the circular reference area 61 are of the same model number "T4800-31Z".

[0074] Depending on the placement of the target steam traps, multiple subdivisions of the group according to the limited area criteria may be possible, making a unique determination impossible. To address such cases and ensure reliable grouping, priority rules can be established in advance.

[0075] For example, if we focus on the steam trap with identification number 003 shown in Figure 13, in addition to the groups with identification numbers 001, 002, and 003, the group with identification numbers 003 and 004 (circular reference area 61a) could also be included in the circular reference area with a diameter of 10 m. However, in this embodiment, the priority rule is to prioritize grouping the group that contains the larger number of steam traps.

[0076] Therefore, as shown in Figure 13, the steam trap with identification number 003 is subdivided to belong to the same group of circular reference area 61 as identification numbers 001 and 002. In this case, the steam trap with identification number 004 is grouped into a separate circular reference area 61 on its own.

[0077] Furthermore, if there are multiple ways to subdivide the group, and the number of steam traps belonging to those ranges is the same, appropriate subdivision can be achieved by establishing, for example, a priority rule that prioritizes the group located furthest northwest within the target area 10, or a rule that prioritizes the group closest to a predetermined reference point.

[0078] Figure 13 shows an example where "Model" is entered as a selection item. The administrator can freely switch groupings by updating and re-selecting the selection items in the selection item area 30. Furthermore, the size of the circular reference area can be freely adjusted and groupings can be freely switched by updating and re-selecting the limited area criteria (diameter 10m, diameter 15m, diameter 20m, diameter 30m) from the pull-down list 46. When groupings are switched, the control unit 23 repeats the processes from S31 to S34 in the flowchart shown in Figure 12, and immediately switches the display on the screen.

[0079] In this embodiment, groups were displayed using frames 61 and 66 with different designs. However, as with the first embodiment described above, groups may also be displayed by varying the color, shade, size, or shape of the steam trap icon itself as an example.

[0080] As described above, in this embodiment, the grouping by selection items is further subdivided into predetermined limited areas, so that when performing work at a site in the target area 10, steam traps located closer together can be grouped together and worked on at the same time. For this reason, for example, necessary tools can be shared, and parts such as gaskets can be prepared at the same time, further improving work efficiency when managing construction and maintenance.

[0081] After confirming the subdivision of the group, a construction plan can be created in the same way as in the first embodiment by specifying the construction plan output icon 40 on the display and entering the information. In this embodiment, a construction plan in the same format as the one in the first embodiment (Figure 9) is created for each area of ​​the subdivided group.

[0082] [Other embodiments] In the embodiments described above, examples were given for each of the following: a management system for multiple devices, a management area, devices, basic information, basic information storage means, selection command, grouping means, location range criteria, location range criteria storage means, location information, steam-related equipment, steam traps, display means, grouping display, selection button display, work plan, and work plan output means. However, these are merely examples, and different configurations can be adopted for each of these.

[0083] In other words, for example, in the embodiment described above, a free-float type steam trap, which is an automatic valve, was used as an example of steam-related equipment, but the management system for multiple devices and the method for managing multiple devices according to the present application may be applied to other devices. For example, disc-type steam traps, bucket-type steam traps, thermostatic steam traps, and manually operated valves installed in steam piping systems that are opened and closed manually may be applied.

[0084] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, 12 pieces of equipment (such as steam traps) are installed in the management area (target area 10, etc.), and an example was given in which 10 of these pieces of equipment (such as steam traps) are the target of the construction work. However, fewer or more pieces of equipment may be targeted.

[0085] Steam-related equipment refers to equipment that handles steam, and includes automatic valves, manual valves, and boilers and other devices related to steam generation. Because steam is high temperature and pressure, steam-related equipment may deteriorate or malfunction depending on the installation conditions, making maintenance and repairs highly necessary. Therefore, the application of the multi-equipment management system and multi-equipment management method described in this application is more effective.

[0086] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, individual data (such as identification number, model, installation location, pipe size, manufacturer, pressure range, importance, application, installation date, failure history, or repair history) were used as examples of basic information. However, other data can be used as long as it represents multiple characteristics of the equipment (such as a steam trap).

[0087] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, a limited area criterion (a circular criterion area with a diameter of 10m, 15m, 20m, or 30m) was given as an example of a spatial range criterion, but different sizes or shapes other than circular may be adopted.

[0088] Furthermore, while terminal devices 71 and tablet terminal devices 72 were exemplified as display means in the above-described embodiment, other means can be used as long as they display the grouping. In addition, while a construction plan as shown in Figure 9 was exemplified as a work plan in the above-described embodiment, work plans of different formats and contents may be adopted. Moreover, the above-described embodiments can be arbitrarily combined to create other embodiments. [Explanation of symbols]

[0089] 001, 002, 003, 004, 005, 006, 007, 008, 009, 010, 011, 012: Steam trap 10: Target area 26: Group generation unit 27a: Individual data storage area 27e: Limited area reference storage area 30: Selectable input area 71: Terminal device 72: Tablet terminal device 73: Printer

Claims

1. Multiple devices located in a designated management area, Basic information storage means that stores basic information representing multiple characteristics of each of the aforementioned devices, A grouping means that performs grouping of devices that match a selection command, which is input from an external source and specifies the basic information, and which performs a grouping switch when the selection command is updated and re-input. A management system for multiple devices, characterized by having the following features.

2. In a management system for multiple devices according to claim 1, It is equipped with a location range criterion storage means that stores location range criteria that represent a certain spatial range, The basic information includes location information for the placement of each of the devices in the management area. The grouping means performs grouping of the devices that match the selection command and are located within the spatial range criteria into a single group. A management system for multiple devices characterized by the following:

3. In a management system for multiple devices according to claim 1 or claim 2, The aforementioned equipment is steam-related equipment that handles steam. A management system for multiple devices characterized by the following:

4. In the management system for multiple devices according to claim 3, The aforementioned steam-related equipment is a steam trap. A management system for multiple devices characterized by the following:

5. In a management system for multiple devices according to claim 1, claim 2, claim 3, or claim 4, A display means for displaying the grouping on a map representing the management area where the arrangement of multiple devices is displayed. A management system for multiple devices, characterized by having the following features.

6. In the management system for multiple devices according to claim 5, The display means includes a selection button display for inputting or updating the selection command, the selection button display representing the basic information. A management system for multiple devices characterized by the following:

7. In the management system for multiple devices according to claim 5, The display means distinguishes each group and displays them grouped by varying the design of the frame surrounding the equipment. A management system for multiple devices characterized by the following:

8. In the management system for multiple devices according to claim 5, The display means distinguishes and groups each group by using different colors for the display of the device. A management system for multiple devices characterized by the following:

9. In the management system for multiple devices according to claim 5, The display means distinguishes each group and displays them as a group by varying the intensity of the display on the device. A management system for multiple devices characterized by the following:

10. In the management system for multiple devices according to claim 5, The display means distinguishes each group and displays them as a group by varying the size of the display on the device. A management system for multiple devices characterized by the following:

11. In the management system for multiple devices according to claim 5, The display means distinguishes each group and displays them as a group by varying the shape of the display on the device. A management system for multiple devices characterized by the following:

12. In a management system for multiple devices according to claim 1, claim 2, claim 3, or claim 4, A work plan output means creates and outputs a work plan for each group formed by the grouping means. A management system for multiple devices, characterized by having the following features.

13. It stores basic information representing multiple characteristics of multiple devices placed in a designated management area. A selection command is input from an external source, and according to the selection command specifying the basic information, the devices that match the selection command are grouped into one group. When the aforementioned selection command is updated and re-entered, the grouping is switched. A method for managing multiple devices, characterized by the following features.

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