Bearing maintenance method and management device

Abstract

Perform proper maintenance on the bearings. [Solution] The maintenance method includes adding an additive to the lubricant to reduce the protrusions 170B caused by micropitching 170 when it is determined that micropitching 170 is occurring on the surface 121A of a predetermined member. The maintenance method also includes performing flushing of the drive unit when it is determined that micropitching 170 is not currently occurring but is likely to occur in the future.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a bearing maintenance method and a management device.

Background Art

[0002] For example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2021-12185 (Patent Document 1) discloses a bearing life diagnosis method. According to the invention disclosed in this Patent Document 1, the bearing life can be recognized by a bearing administrator or the like.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Generally, when a bearing is severely damaged, an operator needs to replace the bearing. However, replacing a bearing is costly. Therefore, it is preferable to perform appropriate maintenance on the bearing, but in the above-mentioned technology, appropriate maintenance of the bearing has not been considered.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above problems, and an object thereof is to perform appropriate maintenance on a bearing.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The maintenance method of this disclosure is a method for maintaining a bearing. The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. The maintenance method comprises adding an additive to the lubricant to reduce the height of a protrusion caused by a first damage when it is determined that a first damage has occurred on the surface of the predetermined member, and replacing the lubricant or adding an additive to the lubricant when it is determined that a first damage has not occurred but is likely to occur in the future.

[0007] The management device disclosed herein is a bearing management device. The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. The management device includes an interface for acquiring damage data regarding damage to the surface of the predetermined member and a control device. When the control device determines, based on the damage data, that a first type of damage has occurred on the surface, it transmits information to a predetermined terminal to recommend that the operator add an additive to the lubricant to reduce the height of the protrusion caused by the first type of damage. When the control device determines, based on the damage data, that a first type of damage has not occurred but is likely to occur in the future, it transmits information to the predetermined terminal to recommend that the lubricant be replaced or that an additive be added to the lubricant.

[0008] The management device of this disclosure is a bearing management device. The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. Surface damage to the predetermined member includes a first damage and a second damage which is larger in scale than the first damage. The management device comprises an interface for acquiring damage data relating to surface damage to the predetermined member and a control device. When the control device determines, based on the damage data, that a second damage which is larger in scale than the first damage has occurred on the surface, it transmits information to a predetermined terminal recommending the addition of an additive to the lubricant to increase the radius of curvature of the edge of the recess caused by the second damage and the execution of a controlled operation which reduces the rotational speed of the rotating body contained in the bearing. When the control device determines, based on the damage data, that a second damage has not yet occurred but is likely to occur in the future, it transmits information to a predetermined terminal recommending the flushing of the drive device including the bearing and the addition of an additive to the lubricant after flushing the drive device to reduce surface protrusions. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, proper maintenance of bearings can be performed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the management system described herein. [Figure 2] This is a diagram to explain micropitching. [Figure 3] This is a diagram to explain peeling. [Figure 4] This is a diagram illustrating the maintenance method for bearings. [Figure 5] This diagram illustrates specific techniques for situations 1 through 4. [Figure 6] This is a diagram to explain the pollution coefficient. [Figure 7] This is a functional block diagram of the control device. [Figure 8] This is a diagram to explain the first recommended image. [Figure 9]It is a diagram for explaining the second recommended image. [Figure 10] It is a diagram for explaining the third recommended image. [Figure 11] It is a diagram for explaining the fourth recommended image. [Figure 12] It is a diagram for explaining the fifth recommended image. [Figure 13] It is a flowchart showing the main processing flow of the management device. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart showing the operator's processing. [Figure 15] It is a flowchart showing the operator's processing. [Figure 16] It is a flowchart showing the operator's processing. [Figure 17] It is a flowchart showing the operator's processing. [Figure 18] It is a flowchart showing the user's processing. [Figure 19] It is an example of an observation image. [Figure 20] It is an example of an observation image. [Figure 21] It is an example of an observation image. [Figure 22] It is a diagram for explaining a specific different method for the first to fourth situations. [Figure 23] It is a flowchart showing the main processing flow of the management device. [Figure 24] It is a diagram for explaining the preferred amount of the components of the additive.

Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, when referring to the number, amount, etc., unless otherwise specified, the scope of the present disclosure is not necessarily limited to that number, amount, etc. The same parts and corresponding parts are given the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations may not be repeated. It is initially planned to appropriately combine and use the configurations in the embodiments.

[0012] <First Embodiment> [Premise] First, let's explain the premise of this embodiment. Generally, when bearings used in large machinery such as wind power generation equipment are damaged, workers need to replace them. However, replacing bearings incurs significant costs. Therefore, it is preferable to prevent or suppress damage such as "peeling," which can trigger bearing damage, in order to prevent bearing damage from occurring in the first place.

[0013] However, the mechanism of bearing damage is complex and varies depending on operating conditions and other factors. Therefore, a challenge arises in that preventing and suppressing damage is difficult unless appropriate measures are taken according to the damage mechanism. This challenge is particularly evident in wind power generation equipment, where operating conditions change depending on wind conditions. In addition, workers generally carry out measures to prevent damage to bearings in wind power generation equipment (hereinafter also referred to as "damage prevention measures") inside the nacelle, which is located at a high altitude. Therefore, the cost of implementing damage prevention measures tends to be high. Thus, it is desirable to suppress the wasted costs incurred by implementing ineffective damage prevention measures.

[0014] The bearing maintenance method provided in this embodiment can effectively prevent and suppress the occurrence of major damage that could be fatal to the bearing. Therefore, the bearing maintenance method provided in this embodiment can reduce the operating costs, especially for large machinery and equipment. The bearing maintenance method is also referred to as a "bearing life extension method."

[0015] [Management System] Figure 1 shows an example configuration of the management system 10 of this disclosure. The management system 10 of this disclosure comprises at least one wind power generation unit 60 and a management device 100. The management device 100 can communicate with a collection device 30, a user terminal 50 (described later), and a worker terminal 70 (described later) via a network NW. In this disclosure, the processing of the management device 100 includes both being performed by the management device 100 itself and being performed jointly by at least one information processing device (not shown). Furthermore, the management system 10 employs a so-called CMS (Condition Monitoring System).

[0016] The wind power generation unit 60 includes a wind power generation device 20 and a collection device 30. The wind power generation device 20 is a device that generates electricity by receiving wind power. The wind power generation device 20 corresponds to an example of a “rotating machine” in this disclosure.

[0017] The wind power generation device 20 includes a bearing 120 and a plurality of detection devices 130, etc. The device including the bearing 120 is also referred to as the drive unit. The drive unit includes, for example, a speed increaser and a generator.

[0018] The bearing 120 is a rolling bearing or a sliding bearing, etc. In this embodiment, the bearing 120 is a rolling bearing. The bearing 120 is made of steel, for example. The bearing 120 includes a rotating body 121, a support 122, and a lubricant 123, etc. For example, the rotating body 121 rotates in accordance with the rotation of the blades of the wind turbine 20. The support 122 rotatably supports the rotating body 121. The rotating body 121 is, for example, an inner ring and at least one of the rolling elements, and the support 122 is an outer ring. The rolling elements are "rollers" or "balls". The lubricant 123 lubricates the rotating body 121 and the support 122. The rotating body 121 and the support 122 are in contact. This contact area is also referred to as the "surface" of the rotating body 121 or the support 122. The surface (contact portion) may be the rolling contact portion between the raceway surface of the raceway ring (inner or outer ring) and the rolling surface of the rolling element. Alternatively, the surface may be the sliding portion between the flange of the raceway ring and the end face of the rolling element. The rotating body 121 and the support 122 may also be referred to as the first member and the second member, respectively. The raceway ring and the rolling element may also be referred to as the first member and the second member, respectively. The first member and the second member correspond to the "predetermined member" in this disclosure.

[0019] The detection device 130 detects operating data. The operating data is data related to the operation of the wind power generation equipment 20. The operating data is information used by the control device 100 to determine damage to the bearing 120, etc. The operating data is, for example, physical quantities of the bearing 120.

[0020] The detection device 130 is, for example, a sensor that detects physical quantities of the bearing 120. These physical quantities may be, for example, the temperature or vibration level at a predetermined location on the bearing 120. Alternatively, the detection device 130 may also be an imaging device that images a predetermined location on the bearing 120. The image data captured by the detection device 130 becomes the operating data.

[0021] The multiple operating data detected by the multiple detection devices 130 are transmitted to the collection device 30 as time-series data. In this way, the collection device 30 collects the operating data detected by the multiple detection devices 130.

[0022] The data collection device 30 transmits the operational data acquired from the multiple detection devices 130 to the management device 100 via the network NW.

[0023] The user terminal 50 is the terminal device of user A. "User" is typically the owner of the wind power generation equipment 20 or the operator of the wind power generation equipment 20. The user terminal 50 is also typically a portable terminal that user A can carry. Alternatively, the user terminal 50 may be a dedicated computer terminal. Furthermore, at least one of user A and worker B may be referred to as "user."

[0024] The worker terminal 70 is the terminal device of worker B. A "worker" is typically a person who performs maintenance on the wind turbine 20. Maintenance includes inspection and repair of the wind turbine 20. Repair includes replacing the lubricant 123 of the bearing 120.

[0025] The worker terminal 70 is typically a portable terminal that worker B can carry. Alternatively, the worker terminal 70 may be a dedicated computer terminal. Worker B performs the maintenance indicated in the image displayed on the worker terminal 70. In addition, worker B performs periodic maintenance on the wind power generation equipment 20. Worker B inputs inspection data showing the results of the periodic maintenance into the worker terminal 70. The worker terminal 70 transmits the input inspection data to the management device 100. The inspection data may also be transmitted to the collection device 30, and from the collection device 30 to the management device 100. Inspection data and operation data are collectively referred to as damage data. Damage data is, for example, data used by the management device 100 to identify whether the first to seventh conditions described later are met.

[0026] Each of the at least one wind turbine 20 included in the management system 10 is assigned a wind turbine ID (identification). Each of the at least one user terminal 50 included in the management system 10 is assigned a user terminal ID. Each of the at least one worker terminal 70 included in the management system 10 is assigned a worker terminal ID. Furthermore, each bearing 120 of at least one wind turbine 20 is assigned a bearing ID.

[0027] Each wind turbine ID is associated with at least one of the user terminal ID and / or worker terminal ID. The management device 100 maintains a table (not shown) that shows this association. The management device 100 refers to this table and transmits information to the user terminal 50 or worker terminal 70.

[0028] The management device 100 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102, a memory 104, and an interface 106. The CPU 102 performs various processes. The CPU 102 corresponds to the "control device" in this disclosure. The control device may also be called a control circuit.

[0029] Memory 104 includes ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). ROM is non-rewritable, non-volatile memory, while RAM is volatile memory.

[0030] The ROM stores a program that describes the processing procedure for the CPU 102. The CPU 102 loads the program stored in the ROM into RAM or other memory and executes it. The interface 106 communicates with external devices (collection device 30, user terminal 50, and worker terminal 70) via the network NW.

[0031] The control device 100 detects the type of damage and the circumstances of its occurrence based on the damage data. Alternatively, worker B may visually detect the type of damage and the circumstances of its occurrence. In this embodiment, the types of damage are micropitting and delamination. Micropitting and delamination can occur on at least one surface (contact portion) of the rotating body 121 and the support 122 (see Figures 2 and 3 described later).

[0032] Micropitting is an example of “first damage” as defined in this disclosure, and delamination is an example of “second damage” as defined in this disclosure. The first damage may also include, for example, at least one of wear and false brinering. False brinering is a wear mark caused by minute vibrations of the bearing 120, etc.

[0033] [Micropitching and peeling] Next, we will describe micropitting and delamination, which can occur in the bearing 120. Typically, delamination is a larger-scale damage than micropitting. Damage scale refers to the approximate diameter of the delaminated area when viewed from a vertically upward direction, and a larger scale means a larger approximate diameter. Micropitting is typically a collection of minute damages of about 10 μm on the surface of at least one of the rotating body 121 and the support 122. The damage scale of micropitting can be determined by the approximate diameter of each individual minute damage.

[0034] Delamination is defined as damage of 100 μm or more on at least one surface of the rotating body 121 and the support 122.

[0035] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating micropitching. In the example in Figure 2(A), micropitching 170 is shown on the surface 121A of the rotating body 121. The occurrence of micropitching 170 forms a recess 170A. Furthermore, a projection 170B is formed on the edge of the recess 170A.

[0036] In this embodiment, if it is determined that micropitting 170 has occurred, an additive is added to the lubricant 123 by worker B or the like. Here, the additive is used to reduce the height of the protrusion (for example, protrusion 170B). The additive is also called a concentrate. The additive includes a first component, a second component, graphite, and muscovite. The first component is a component belonging to a three-layer silicate. The second component is at least one of bentonite, exothermic silica, and talc. Note that the process of adding the additive to the lubricant 193 includes not only the process of adding the additive to the existing lubricant 193 of the bearing 120, but also the process of replacing the lubricant 193 with a lubricant that contains the additive.

[0037] Figure 2(B) shows an example of micropitting 171 after the additive has been added to the lubricant 123 and the wind power generation device 20 has been operated for a predetermined period. When the bearing 120 is driven after the additive has been added to the lubricant 123, the additive added to the lubricant 123 promotes wear of the protrusions 170B, and the height of the protrusions 170B is reduced. Figure 2(B) shows these reduced protrusions 171B. Figure 2(B) also shows the recesses 171A after the additive has been added to the lubricant 123. In this way, the addition of the additive to the lubricant 123 promotes the settling of the surface roughness of the rotating body 121. This enhanced settling occurs not only for the protrusions formed by the occurrence of micropitting, but also for the surface roughness formed by machining during the manufacturing of the rotating body 121. Furthermore, the enhanced settling of the surface roughness of the rolling elements corresponding to the rotating body 121 also occurs similarly.

[0038] Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating delamination. In the example in Figure 3(A), delamination 180 that has occurred on the surface 121A of the rotating body 121 is shown. The occurrence of delamination 180 forms a recess 180A. Furthermore, the edge 180B of the recess 180A is also formed.

[0039] In this embodiment, if it is determined that peeling 180 has occurred, an additive is added to the lubricant 123 by worker B or the like.

[0040] Figure 3(B) shows an example of peeling 181 after the additive has been added to the lubricant 123 and the wind power generation device 20 has been operated for a predetermined period of time. After the additive has been added to the lubricant 123, when the bearing 120 is driven, the additive added to the lubricant 123 promotes wear of the edge portion 180B, so the radius of curvature of the edge portion 180B increases. Figure 3(B) shows the edge portion 181B with an increased radius of curvature.

[0041] Furthermore, the formation of delamination includes the following first and second cases. The first case is when delamination is formed due to the progression of micropitting. The second case is when foreign matter enters the bearing 120, an indentation is formed by the foreign matter, and this indentation progresses to form delamination.

[0042] [Maintenance Instructions] Figure 4 is a diagram illustrating the maintenance method for the bearing 120 in this embodiment. Figure 4 shows the type of damage, the circumstances under which the damage occurred, and the maintenance method corresponding to the type of damage and the circumstances under which the damage occurred. In the example of Figure 4, the types of damage shown are micropitting (see Figure 2) and delamination (see Figure 3).

[0043] The occurrence of damage includes the following four conditions: Condition 1, Condition 2, Condition 3, and Condition 4. Condition 1 is a situation in which the control device 100 has determined that micropitting has already occurred. The situation in which the control device 100 has determined that micropitting has already occurred also includes situations in which the control device 100 has determined that there is a high probability that micropitting has already occurred.

[0044] The second situation is one in which micropitting is not currently occurring, but the control device 100 estimates that micropitting will occur in the future. "Damage (such as micropitting) will occur in the future" may include, for example, "the damage will occur within a predetermined period from the present." The third situation is one in which delamination has already occurred, as determined by the control device 100. The fourth situation is one in which delamination is not currently occurring, but the control device 100 estimates that delamination will occur in the future.

[0045] The control device 100 determines, through predetermined calculations, which of the first to fourth conditions the bearing 120 is in. At least two of the first to fourth conditions may occur simultaneously. The control device 100 then proposes a maintenance method to user A or worker B corresponding to the condition.

[0046] If the bearing 120 is in the first condition (where micro-pitting has already occurred), this micro-pitting may develop into large-scale damage such as delamination. Furthermore, delamination may develop into fatal damage to the bearing 120.

[0047] Therefore, the control device 100 proposes a maintenance method in which an additive is added to the lubricant 123. When this maintenance method is performed by worker B or the like, the effects of micro-pitching 171 can be reduced (see Figure 2).

[0048] If the bearing 120 is in the second condition (where micro-pitching is not currently occurring, but is expected to occur in the future), then the lubricant 123 may be degraded.

[0049] Degradation of the lubricant 123 includes at least one of the following: a decrease in the oil film of the lubricant 123, and a decrease in the kinematic viscosity of the lubricant 123.

[0050] Therefore, the control device 100 proposes a maintenance method of replacing the lubricant 123 or adding an additive to the lubricant 123. By replacing the lubricant 123, the deterioration of the lubricant 123 is eliminated, and the future occurrence of micro-pitting 171 can be suppressed. Furthermore, by adding an additive to the lubricant 123, the aforementioned surface roughness settling is promoted, thus suppressing the future occurrence of micro-pitting 171.

[0051] If the bearing 120 is in the third condition (where delamination has already occurred), this delamination may develop into a fatal defect in the bearing 120.

[0052] Therefore, the control device 100 proposes a maintenance method in which an additive is added to the lubricant 123. This maintenance method, when performed by worker B or others, can reduce the effects of peeling (see Figure 3). Furthermore, the control device 100 proposes controlled operation of the wind power generation device to user A. Controlled operation is an operation to reduce the rotational speed of the rotating body 121, for example, an operation to reduce the rotational speed of the main shaft of the wind power generation device 20. By performing such controlled operation, the number of times the load is applied to the peeling area can be reduced, thereby suppressing the expansion of peeling.

[0053] Furthermore, if the bearing 120 is in the third condition, the control device 100 suggests that user A monitor the progression of the delamination. This monitoring allows user A to arrange for a replacement bearing before the delamination progresses to the point where the wind turbine 20 becomes inoperable. Therefore, the downtime of the wind turbine can be minimized by replacing the bearing. The method by which user A can understand the progression of the delamination includes monitoring of increased behavior such as vibration by the control device 100, user A, or the administrator of the control device 100.

[0054] The following describes the case where the bearing 120 is in the fourth condition (currently, no delamination has occurred, but it is estimated that delamination will occur in the future). In this case, there is a risk that foreign matter mixed in the lubricant will form indentations in the future, and that delamination will form from these indentations (hereinafter also referred to as the "first risk"). Therefore, if the bearing 120 is in the fourth condition, the management device 100 proposes a maintenance method of flushing the drive unit as described above.

[0055] Here, flushing the drive unit means, for example, at least one of cleaning the drive unit and removing foreign matter from the drive unit. Flushing means, for example, removing dirt and foreign matter from the drive unit. Flushing may also include the process of replacing the lubricant in the bearings contained in the drive unit with a new lubricant.

[0056] This maintenance method (flushing) can be performed by worker B or others to remove foreign matter mixed into the drive mechanism and the lubricant, thereby suppressing the future formation of indentations and, as a result, reducing the first risk mentioned above.

[0057] However, if the bearing 120 is in the fourth condition, an indentation has already been formed, and there is a risk that delamination may form from this indentation in the future (hereinafter also referred to as the "second risk"). Therefore, the control device 100 also proposes maintenance by adding an additive to the lubricant 123. By adding an additive to the lubricant 123, protrusions that have formed on the edges of the already formed indentation can be suppressed. Therefore, the progression of delamination from this indentation can be suppressed, and as a result, the second risk can also be reduced.

[0058] In other words, if the bearing 120 is in the fourth condition, the drive unit is flushed, and an additive is added to the lubricant after flushing the drive unit. This reduces both the first and second risks.

[0059] [Identifying the situation] Next, the method by which the control device 100 identifies the first to fourth conditions described above will be explained. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the method for identifying the first to fourth conditions described above. The control device 100 identifies which of the first to fourth conditions the bearing 120 is in by determining whether or not the first to eighth conditions are met. The control device 100 determines whether or not the first to eighth conditions are met based on the above damage data (operation data and inspection data).

[0060] Furthermore, conditions 1 through 3 are the conditions for the occurrence of micropitting. Conditions 4, 5, and 7 are the conditions for the absence of delamination. Condition 6 is a condition for the occurrence of delamination.

[0061] The first condition is that, during the past operating period of the wind power generation equipment, the oil film parameter A relating to the oil film of lubricant 123 fell below the threshold at least once. Here, the oil film parameter A is calculated, for example, by the following formula.

[0062] Oil film parameter A = h / {(R 2 +S 2 )} 0.5 (1) Here, the oil film thickness h represents the oil film thickness formed at the contact portion between the rotating body 121 and the support 122. R represents the root mean square roughness of the contact surface between the rotating body 121 and the support 122. S represents the root mean square roughness of the contact surface between the support 122 and the rotating body 121. The threshold is a predetermined value; for example, the threshold is 1.2.

[0063] The second condition is that the content of the bearing material in the lubricant 123 is increasing. The material of the bearing 120 is, for example, iron. Therefore, in the second condition in Figure 5, the material is described as iron. In this disclosure, an increasing trend means that the slope of the values ​​obtained from two or more of the above-mentioned periodic maintenance in the past is positive. In this disclosure, a decreasing trend means that the slope of the values ​​obtained from two or more of the above-mentioned periodic maintenance in the past is negative.

[0064] The third condition is that the kinematic viscosity of the lubricant 123 is decreasing. A decreasing kinematic viscosity means that the kinematic viscosity of the lubricant 123 obtained from the above-mentioned periodic maintenance performed two or more times in the past is decreasing.

[0065] The fourth condition is that no delamination has occurred on the bearing 120. The fifth condition is that the contamination coefficient e is greater than the first predetermined value. Here, we will explain the contamination coefficient e. The contamination coefficient e is a coefficient related to the contamination of the bearing 120. The contamination coefficient e is a coefficient in accordance with ISO 281 (2007). The contamination coefficient e is a parameter calculated in the rolling bearing life calculation method specified in ISO 281 (2007). The cleaner the bearing 120 is, the larger the contamination coefficient e will be calculated. Furthermore, the contamination coefficient e is a coefficient based on the reduction in the life of the bearing 120 due to indentations of foreign matter (contamination particles, etc.) mixed in the lubricant 123 of the bearing 120.

[0066] Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the contamination coefficient e. In the example in Figure 6, the contamination level is divided into seven levels. Furthermore, in the example in Figure 6, the levels are divided according to the pitch diameter D of the bearing 120. In the example in Figure 6, the levels are divided according to whether the pitch diameter D is 100 mm or more. For example, if the contamination level of a bearing 120 with a pitch diameter D of 100 mm or more is 0.85, then this bearing 120 is judged to have a high degree of cleanliness.

[0067] Furthermore, the first predetermined value of the fifth condition may be determined by referring to past field data. If such reference data is unavailable, it may be determined based on the table in Figure 6. In this embodiment, the first predetermined value for bearings 120 with a rolling element pitch diameter D of less than 100 mm is set to 0.5. The first predetermined value for bearings 120 with a rolling element pitch diameter D of 100 mm or more is set to 0.6.

[0068] The sixth condition is that, based on past operating data, the pollution coefficient e has been below the second predetermined value at some point, or that the pollution coefficient e is showing a decreasing trend. The second predetermined value is a value smaller than the first predetermined value. For example, the second predetermined value for a bearing 120 with a rolling element pitch diameter D of less than 100 mm is set to 0.3. The second predetermined value for a bearing 120 with a rolling element pitch diameter D of 100 mm or more is set to 0.4.

[0069] Condition 7 is the same as Condition 4. For Condition 8, for example, suppose worker B detects delamination visually using an endoscope or the like during regular maintenance. Worker B inputs information indicating that the delamination has been detected into worker terminal 70. Worker terminal 70 transmits information indicating that the delamination has been detected to the management device 100. Condition 8 is the condition that the management device 100 acquires information indicating that the delamination has been detected.

[0070] As shown in Figure 5, the control device 100 determines that micropitting is occurring or will occur if the occurrence conditions and non-occurrence conditions are met. The reason for this is that when the occurrence conditions are met, there is a high probability that micropitting is occurring, but when the non-occurrence conditions are met, there is a low probability that delamination is occurring. Therefore, the control device 100 does not determine that delamination is occurring, but rather determines that micropitting is occurring or will occur in the future.

[0071] The control device 100 determines that micropitting is occurring (first situation) when the first, second, fourth, and fifth conditions are met. The control device 100 also determines that micropitting will occur in the future (second situation) when the first, third, and fourth conditions are met.

[0072] The control device 100 determines that peeling has occurred (third situation) when the second, sixth, and eighth conditions are met. The control device 100 determines that peeling will occur in the future (fourth situation) when the sixth and seventh conditions are met.

[0073] [Functional block diagram of the control device] Figure 7 is a functional block diagram of the management device 100. The management device 100 comprises an acquisition unit 112, a processing unit 114, and a storage unit 116. The acquisition unit 112 corresponds to the interface 106 described above. The processing unit 114 corresponds to the CPU 102 described above and the "control device" of this disclosure. The storage unit 116 corresponds to the memory 104 described above.

[0074] The acquisition unit 112 of the management device 100 acquires the bearing ID and the aforementioned operating data from the collection device 30. The acquisition unit 112 also acquires the bearing ID and the aforementioned inspection data from the worker terminal 70. The operating data and inspection data acquired by the acquisition unit 112 are output to the processing unit 114 as damage data.

[0075] The processing unit 114 identifies which of the above first to fourth conditions the status of the wind turbine 20, as identified by the bearing ID obtained from the data collection device 30 and the worker terminal 70, is. The identification by the processing unit 114 is based on damage data (operation data obtained from the data collection device 30, inspection data obtained from the worker terminal 70) and information stored in the storage unit 116.

[0076] The memory unit 116 stores past damage data 127, etc. The first function 131 and the second function 132 will be described later.

[0077] The past damage data 127 includes information necessary to identify which of the first to fourth conditions is present, as described above. The damage data 127 is information for determining whether each condition described in Figure 5 is met. The damage data 127 includes past operating data from the collection device 30 and past inspection data from the worker terminal 70. The processing unit 114 uses the past operating data and past inspection data for, for example, determining the decreasing trend of the kinematic viscosity of the lubricant 123 in the third condition, and determining the decreasing trend of the contamination coefficient of the bearing 120 in the sixth condition. In the storage unit 116, the past operating data and past inspection data are stored for each bearing ID. In addition, the storage unit 116 also stores information such as the calculation formula for the oil film parameter in the first condition and the threshold value for the first condition.

[0078] The processing unit 114 identifies which of the first to fourth conditions the bearing 120 is in, and then generates recommended image data indicating a maintenance method (see Figure 4) to resolve the first to fourth condition. It then transmits the recommended image data to a predetermined terminal (user terminal 50 or worker terminal 70) corresponding to the maintenance method. The user terminal 50 or worker terminal 70 displays an image based on the recommended image data transmitted from the management device 100.

[0079] [Recommended image] Next, we will describe the recommended images displayed by the user terminal 50 or the worker terminal 70. The recommended images include images that recommend maintenance of the wind turbine 20 to user A or worker B.

[0080] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the first recommended image 71 corresponding to the first situation. The first recommended image 71 includes an image showing that micropitting has already occurred (the first situation). Furthermore, the first recommended image 71 includes an image recommending that worker B add an additive to the lubricant 123. By viewing this first recommended image 71, worker B can recognize that micropitting has already occurred and that adding an additive to the lubricant 123 is the solution.

[0081] Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the second recommended image 72 corresponding to the second situation. The second recommended image 72 includes an image showing that micropitting will occur in the future (the second situation). Furthermore, the second recommended image 72 includes an image recommending to worker B that the lubricant 123 be replaced or that an additive be added to the lubricant 123. By viewing this second recommended image 72, worker B can recognize that micropitting will occur in the future and that replacing the lubricant 123 or adding an additive to the lubricant 123 should be done.

[0082] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the third recommended image 73 corresponding to the third situation. The third recommended image 73 includes an image showing that peeling has already occurred (the third situation). Furthermore, the third recommended image 73 includes an image recommending that worker B add an additive to the lubricant 123. By viewing this third recommended image 73, worker B can recognize that peeling has already occurred and that adding an additive to the lubricant 123 is the appropriate course of action.

[0083] Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the fourth recommended image 74 corresponding to the fourth situation. The fourth recommended image 74 includes an image showing that delamination will occur in the future (the fourth situation). Furthermore, the fourth recommended image 74 includes an image recommending that worker B perform flushing of the drive unit. By viewing this fourth recommended image 74, worker B can recognize that delamination will occur in the future and that flushing of the drive unit is the appropriate course of action.

[0084] Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the fifth recommended image 75 for user A, corresponding to the third situation. The fifth recommended image 75 includes an image showing that delamination has already occurred (the third situation). Furthermore, the fifth recommended image 75 includes an image showing that it is recommended that user A perform controlled operation of the wind power generation device 20 and monitor the future progression of delamination. By viewing the fifth recommended image 75, user A can recognize that delamination has already occurred and that all that is needed is to perform controlled operation of the wind power generation device 20 and monitor the future progression of delamination.

[0085] [Processing flow of management device 100] Figure 13 is a flowchart showing the main processing flow of the control device 100. First, in step S2, the control device 100 inspects the bearing 120 for micropitting using operating data and inspection data. In step S2, if the control device 100 determines that micropitting will occur in the future, in step S4 it generates recommended image data (see Figure 9) recommending the replacement of the lubricant 123 or the addition of an additive to the lubricant 123.

[0086] In step S2, if the control device 100 determines that micropitching has already occurred, in step S6 it generates recommended image data (see Figure 8) recommending the addition of an additive to the lubricant 123. Then the process proceeds to step S8.

[0087] In step S2, if the control device 100 determines that there is no micropitching (that micropitching has not occurred and will not occur in the future), the process proceeds to step S8.

[0088] In step S8, the control device 100 inspects the bearing 120 for delamination using the operating data and inspection data. If the control device 100 determines in step S8 that delamination will occur in the future, in step S10, the control device 100 generates recommended image data recommending that the drive unit be flushed and then an additive be added to the lubricant (see Figure 11). The process then proceeds to step S14.

[0089] In step S8, if the control device 100 determines that peeling has already occurred, in step S12 it generates recommended image data recommending the addition of an additive to the lubricant 123 (see Figure 10). Furthermore, the control device 100 generates recommended image data recommending the controlled operation of the wind power generation device 20 (see Figure 12). Then the process proceeds to step S14.

[0090] In step S14, the management device 100 transmits the generated recommended image data to the corresponding predetermined terminal. For example, the management device 100 transmits the "recommended image data recommending the controlled operation of the wind power generation device 20" described in step S10 to the user terminal 50. The management device 100 transmits recommended image data other than this recommended image data to the worker terminal 70. The terminal that receives the recommended image data displays an image based on the recommended image data (see Figures 8 to 12). If it is determined in step S2 that there is no micro-pitting and in step S8 that there is no peeling, then in step S14, the management device 100 transmits image data indicating that neither micro-pitting nor peeling has occurred to the user terminal 50 and the worker terminal 70.

[0091] [Processing flow for User A or Worker B] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the actions taken by worker B when the control device 100 determines that micropitching has already occurred. For example, worker B, after viewing the first recommended image 71 in Figure 8, performs the action shown in Figure 14. In step S112, worker B adds an additive to the lubricant 123. Then, the action shown in Figure 14 is completed.

[0092] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing the actions taken by worker B when the control device 100 determines that micropitting will occur in the future. For example, worker B, after viewing the second recommended image 72 in Figure 9, performs the actions shown in Figure 15. In step S122, worker B replaces the lubricant or adds an additive to the lubricant. Then, the actions shown in Figure 15 are completed.

[0093] Figure 16 is a flowchart showing the process performed by worker B when the control device 100 determines that peeling has already occurred. For example, worker B, after viewing the third recommended image 73 in Figure 10, performs the process shown in Figure 16. In step S132, worker B adds an additive to the lubricant 123. Then, the process shown in Figure 16 is completed.

[0094] Figure 17 is a flowchart showing the actions taken by worker B when the control device 100 determines that delamination will occur in the future. For example, worker B, after viewing the fourth recommended image 74 in Figure 11, performs the action shown in Figure 17. In step S142, worker B flushes the drive unit. After flushing the drive unit, worker B adds an additive to the lubricant in step S144. The action shown in Figure 17 is then completed.

[0095] Figure 18 is a flowchart showing the process that User A takes when the control device 100 determines that delamination has already occurred. For example, User A, after viewing the fifth recommended image 75 in Figure 12, performs the process shown in Figure 18. In step S152, User A performs a controlled operation of the wind power generation device 20. Then, the process shown in Figure 18 is completed.

[0096] [Summary] (1) As shown in Figures 2 and 14, if worker B determines that micropitting 170 has already occurred on surface 121A, he adds an additive to lubricant 123 to reduce the height of the protrusions 170B caused by the micropitting 170. Subsequently, as the operation of the wind power generation device 20 continues, a phenomenon occurs (settlement) in which the height of the protrusions 170B changes to a shape with a smaller height and a larger radius of curvature at the tip. As a result, surface damage caused by interference of the protrusions on surface 121A can be suppressed.

[0097] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 2 and 15, if worker B determines that micro-pitting 170 will occur on surface 121A in the future, he replaces the lubricant 123 or adds an additive to the lubricant 123. This eliminates the deterioration of the lubricant 123 and, as a result, suppresses the occurrence of micro-pitting 170.

[0098] (2) As shown in Figures 3 and 16, when worker B determines that peeling 180 has occurred on the surface 121A, he adds an additive to the lubricant 123 to make the shape of the edge 180B of the recess 180A caused by the peeling 180 rounded. Subsequently, as the operation of the wind power generation device 20 continues, the radius of curvature of the edge 180B increases. Therefore, the expansion of the peeling 180 can be suppressed. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 18, user A performs controlled operation of the wind power generation device 20. This reduces the number of times the load is applied to the peeling 180, and thus the expansion of the peeling 180 can be suppressed.

[0099] (3) As shown in Figure 17, if worker B determines that delamination will occur on surface 121A in the future, he will flush the drive unit. This will prevent deterioration of the drive unit and lubricant 123. In addition, worker B will add an additive to the lubricant 123 after flushing the drive unit. This will reduce the height of the protrusions that have formed on the edges of the already formed indentations. Therefore, it will be possible to suppress the progression of delamination from these indentations.

[0100] Furthermore, in this embodiment, appropriate measures to extend the lifespan of the bearing 120 can be taken based on the estimated damage mechanism of the bearing 120 (judgment results for the first to fourth conditions). As a result, the incidence of damage requiring replacement of the bearing 120 due to damage to the bearing 120 within the service life of the wind power generation equipment 20 can be reduced. In addition, the management device 100 can suppress unnecessary maintenance costs caused by implementing inappropriate and ineffective life-extending measures. For example, if the condition of the bearing 120 is the first condition (a condition in which micro-pitching has already occurred), it is difficult to suppress the expansion of micro-pitching even if lashing of the drive unit is performed. Therefore, if the condition of the bearing 120 is the first condition, worker B will add an additive to the lubricant 123 without performing flushing of the drive unit. In this way, by performing appropriate life-extending measures and refraining from performing ineffective life-extending measures, the maintenance costs of the bearing 120 within the service life of the wind power generation equipment 20 can be reduced.

[0101] (4) As shown in Figure 5, the conditions used to determine whether or not micropitting occurs include the occurrence conditions for micropitting and the non-occurrence conditions for delamination. The control device 100 determines that micropitting has occurred or will occur in the future if it determines that both the occurrence conditions and the non-occurrence conditions are met. Therefore, the control device 100 can determine whether or not micropitting has occurred or will occur in the future through simple control.

[0102] (5) As shown in Figure 5, the conditions for occurrence include the first to third conditions. Therefore, the control device 100 can appropriately determine whether or not the conditions for occurrence are met using the damage data.

[0103] (6) As shown in Figure 5, the non-occurrence conditions include the fourth and fifth conditions. Therefore, the control device 100 can appropriately determine whether or not the non-occurrence conditions are met using the damage data.

[0104] (7) As shown in Figure 5, the control device 100 determines that micropitting is occurring when the first, second, fourth, and fifth conditions are met. Therefore, the control device 100 can determine that micropitting is occurring based on the damage data.

[0105] (8) As shown in Figure 5, the control device 100 determines that micropitting will occur in the future when the first, third, and fourth conditions are met. Therefore, the control device 100 can determine that micropitting will occur in the future based on the damage data.

[0106] (9) The predetermined value used in the fifth condition shown in Figure 5 is 0.5 when the pitch diameter of the rolling element is less than 100 mm, and 0.6 when the pitch diameter of the rolling element is 100 mm or more. With this configuration, the control device 100 can appropriately determine whether the fifth condition is met according to the pitch diameter of the rolling element.

[0107] (10) As shown in Figure 5, the control device 100 determines that delamination will occur in the future when the sixth and seventh conditions are met. Therefore, the control device 100 can determine that delamination will occur in the future based on the damage data.

[0108] (11) The second predetermined value used in the sixth condition shown in Figure 5 is 0.3 when the pitch diameter of the rolling element is less than 100 mm, and 0.4 when the pitch diameter of the rolling element is 100 mm or more. With this configuration, the control device 100 can appropriately determine whether the sixth condition is met according to the pitch diameter of the rolling element.

[0109] <Second Embodiment> In the first embodiment, a micropitching inspection (determining whether micropitching has already occurred and whether it will occur in the future) was described in a configuration that uses occurrence conditions and non-occurrence conditions. This micropitching inspection may be performed by other methods.

[0110] For example, the control device 100 may perform micro-pitching inspection using the first function 131 in Figure 7.

[0111] The first function 131 is a function that outputs the micro-pitching life (the timing of micro-pitching occurrence) when the above-mentioned damage data is input. For example, the first function 131 is a function that takes at least the rotational speed of the rotating body and the bearing temperature as input. The first function 131 includes a first calculation formula and a second calculation formula. The first calculation formula is an formula in which a larger surface stress is calculated as the rotational speed decreases and the bearing temperature increases. The surface stress is the stress that occurs on the surface of the bearing 120. The second calculation formula outputs the timing of micro-pitching occurrence based on the calculated surface stress. The second calculation formula calculates a shorter micro-pitching life as the surface stress increases. The micro-pitching life is the period from the timing at which the timing of micro-pitching occurrence is output (the current timing) to the timing of micro-pitching occurrence.

[0112] The control device 100 has a first threshold and a second threshold that is smaller than the first threshold as thresholds for the micro-pitching life. The second threshold corresponds to the "specified value" in this disclosure. If the micro-pitching life is less than the second threshold, the control device 100 determines that micro-pitching is occurring. If the micro-pitching life is greater than or equal to the second threshold but less than the first threshold, the control device 100 determines that micro-pitching will occur in the future. If the micro-pitching life is greater than or equal to the first threshold, the control device 100 determines that micro-pitching is not occurring and will not occur in the future.

[0113] Thus, the control device 100 calculates the micropitching lifetime based on the damage data and the first function 131 described above, and based on the micropitching lifetime, it can determine whether micropitching is occurring and whether micropitching will occur in the future (it can perform a micropitching inspection). Therefore, the control device 100 can perform a micropitching inspection appropriately.

[0114] Furthermore, the control device 100 determines that micropitching is occurring if the micropitching lifetime is less than the second threshold. Therefore, the control device 100 can determine that micropitching is occurring through simple comparative control.

[0115] Furthermore, the conditions for determining that micropitching has already occurred (the first, second, fourth, and fifth conditions) may include the condition that the micropitching lifetime is less than the second threshold. Details of the first function 131 are disclosed, for example, in Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-192977, also filed by the same applicant.

[0116] Furthermore, the control device 100 may perform a delamination inspection (determining whether delamination has already occurred and whether delamination will occur in the future) using the second function 132 in Figure 7.

[0117] The second function 132 is, for example, the rated life formula due to delamination as defined in ISO 281 (2007).

[0118] The control device 100 has a third threshold and a fourth threshold that is smaller than the third threshold as thresholds for the peeling life. If the peeling life is less than the fourth threshold, the control device 100 determines that peeling has occurred. If the peeling life is between the fourth threshold and the third threshold, the control device 100 determines that peeling will occur in the future. If the peeling life is greater than or equal to the third threshold, the control device 100 determines that peeling has not occurred and will not occur in the future. With this configuration, the control device 100 can perform peeling inspections appropriately.

[0119] <Third Embodiment> In the third embodiment, worker B and at least one of the control devices 100 determine the occurrence of micropitting and delamination based on the size of the material fragments contained in the lubricant 123. For example, worker B extracts at least a portion of the lubricant 123 contained in the bearing 120 during periodic maintenance. Worker B also filters the at least portion of the lubricant 123. The filtering process is optional.

[0120] Operator B observes the material fragments contained in the filtered residue using a measuring device (e.g., a scanning electron microscope). The "extracted lubricant 123" or "residue" corresponds to an example of "at least a portion of the lubricant" in this disclosure. Operator B then transmits the observation image of the residue (see Figures 19 to 21 below) to the control device 100 using a predetermined device (e.g., the measuring device or operator terminal 70). At least one of the above-described operations of operator B, namely the extraction of the lubricant 123 and the observation of material fragments contained in the lubricant 123, may be performed by another specialist.

[0121] The material fragments are typically pieces that have detached from the bearing 120. The material fragments may also include materials derived from the fragments (e.g., oxides of the fragments). The material fragments are also sometimes referred to as "metal fragments."

[0122] Figure 19 is an example of an observation image of the residue (at least some of the lubricant 123) when micropitting has already occurred. In the example in Figure 19, three material fragments are shown to be present in the residue. The control device 100 also calculates material parameters for multiple material fragments (three material fragments in Figure 19).

[0123] Here, the material parameter is a parameter relating to the degree of size of multiple material pieces included in the observed image. The material parameter may be the maximum value among the sizes of each of the multiple material pieces. Alternatively, the material parameter may be a representative value of the multiple material pieces. The representative value includes at least one of the mean, median, and mode. In this embodiment, the material parameter is the maximum value among the sizes of each of the multiple material pieces.

[0124] Furthermore, "size of the material piece" refers to, for example, the longest length from one end to the other of the material piece. Figure 19 shows the largest material piece, M1, with a size of approximately 210 μm.

[0125] Figure 20 shows another example of an observed image where micropitting has already occurred. In the example in Figure 20, the residue contains six material fragments. In Figure 20, the largest material fragment, M2, is shown, and the size of material fragment M2 is approximately 100 μm.

[0126] Figure 21 is an example of an observation image when delamination has already occurred. In Figure 21, the largest material piece M3 is shown, and the size of material piece M3 is approximately 1400 μm. Figures 19 and 20 are observation images of bearing 120, which is a cylindrical roller bearing made of SUJ (Steel Used for bearing Japanese Industrial Standard) 2. Figure 21 is an observation image of bearing 120, which is a self-aligning roller bearing.

[0127] Based on the observation results (observation images) in Figures 19 to 21, the inventors of this disclosure have found that if the material parameter (for example, the maximum value among the sizes of each of the multiple material pieces) is smaller than a first reference value, it is highly likely that micropitting has already occurred. Furthermore, based on the observation results in Figures 19 to 21, the inventors of this disclosure have found that if the material parameter is larger than a second reference value, it is highly likely that delamination has already occurred.

[0128] Here, the second reference value is a value greater than the first reference value. For example, the first reference value is 500 μm, and the second reference value is 1000 μm.

[0129] Figure 22 is a diagram, separate from Figure 5, that illustrates the method for identifying (estimating) the first to fourth situations described above. In Figure 22, the conditions for the occurrence of micropitting include a ninth condition. The ninth condition is that the material parameter is less than the first reference value. Also in Figure 22, the conditions for the occurrence of delamination include a tenth condition. The tenth condition is that the material parameter is greater than the second reference value. The conditions for when the material parameter is greater than or equal to the first reference value and less than or equal to the second reference value are not specified in this disclosure.

[0130] In the example shown in Figure 22, the control device 100 determines that micropitching is occurring (first situation) when at least one of the first to fifth conditions and the ninth condition is met. More preferably, the control device 100 may determine that micropitching has already occurred (first situation) when at least one of the first and third conditions, the fourth condition, and at least one of the second and ninth conditions are met.

[0131] Furthermore, the control device 100 determines that peeling has occurred (third situation) when at least one of the second, sixth, eighth, and tenth conditions is met. The inventors have confirmed that peeling may still occur even when the ninth condition is met. Therefore, the control device 100 may also determine that peeling has occurred (third situation) when at least one of the second, sixth, eighth, and ninth conditions is met.

[0132] As a variation, the control device 100 may determine that micropitting has already occurred when only condition 9 is met, regardless of whether conditions 1 to 5 are met. Alternatively, the control device 100 may determine that peeling has already occurred when only condition 10 is met, regardless of whether conditions 2, 6, and 8 are met.

[0133] As described above, the control device 100 determines that micropitching has already occurred when at least one condition, including the ninth condition, is met. Therefore, the control device 100 can determine relatively easily that micropitching has already occurred.

[0134] Furthermore, the control device 100 determines that peeling has already occurred when at least one condition, including the tenth condition, is met. Therefore, the control device 100 can determine relatively easily that peeling has already occurred.

[0135] <Fourth Embodiment> In the fourth embodiment, an embodiment using the ninth and tenth conditions described above will be explained. Figure 23 is a flowchart showing the main processing flow of the management device 100 in the fourth embodiment. Note that the step numbers of the processes in Figure 23 that are the same as those in Figure 13 are assigned the same numbers as the step numbers of the processes in Figure 13.

[0136] First, in step S202, the control device 100 acquires an observation image. Next, in step S204, the control device 100 counts the material pieces (images) contained in the observation image by performing image recognition on the observation image.

[0137] Next, in step S206, worker B or the control device 100 determines whether the number of material pieces is greater than a predetermined number. The predetermined number is, for example, "2".

[0138] If the number of material pieces is less than a predetermined number (NO in step S206), the process proceeds to step S14. In step S14, the control device 100 transmits image data to the user terminal 50 and the worker terminal 70 indicating that neither micropitting nor peeling has occurred.

[0139] If the number of material pieces is greater than or equal to a predetermined number (YES in step S206), in step S208, the control device 100 calculates the material parameters. In step S210, the control device 100 determines whether the material parameters are greater than the first reference value. If NO is determined in step S210, the control device 100 determines that micropitting has already occurred and executes the process in step S6 of Figure 13.

[0140] Furthermore, if it is determined to be YES in step S210, in step S212 the control device 100 determines whether the material parameter is greater than the second reference value. If it is determined to be YES in step S212, the control device 100 determines that delamination has already occurred and executes the process in step S12 in Figure 13. After the completion of the processes in step S6 and step S12, the control device 100 executes the process in step S14.

[0141] If NO is determined in step S212, it is unclear whether micropitting or delamination occurred; therefore, in this case, the process shown in Figure 23 is terminated.

[0142] In summary, the control device 100 proposes a maintenance method using the material parameters of the lubricant 123. Therefore, the control device 100 can propose a maintenance method relatively easily.

[0143] Note that each process in Figure 23 may be performed by an entity other than the entity described above. For example, the processes in steps S202 and S204 may be performed by worker B or a different worker, instead of the control device 100.

[0144] <Other Embodiments> (1) The flows in Figures 14 to 18 described above illustrate a configuration performed by a human (user A or worker B). However, at least some of the processes in the flows in Figures 14 to 18 may be performed by a work robot (work device).

[0145] (2) The configuration described above shows that the management device 100 performs the process of determining whether the first to fourth situations described above are present or not. However, at least a part of this determination process may be performed by a worker B or other (human).

[0146] (3) Other methods for calculating the pollution coefficient e described above will be explained. For example, when the lubricant 123 is lubricating oil, the pollution coefficient e may be determined by the control device 100 by referring to the filter filtration ratio described in ISO 16889 and the oil pollution code specified in ISO 4406. Diagrams for determining the pollution coefficient e in the case of oil lubrication using these methods, and methods for determining the pollution coefficient e when the lubricant is grease, are described in ISO 281 (2007).

[0147] In this embodiment, the control device 100 determines the contamination coefficient e based on the lubrication method of the bearing 120. For example, bearings incorporated into the gearbox of a wind power generation device 20 often use lubricating oil as a lubricant. If the contamination code of the lubricating oil for the gearbox bearings is checked according to ISO 4406 during periodic maintenance of the wind power generation device 20, the contamination coefficient e may be determined based on that result.

[0148] (4) In the above-described embodiment, a configuration was described in which the third recommended image 73 and the fifth recommended image 75 are displayed on separate terminals (user terminal 50 and worker terminal 70). However, the third recommended image 73 and the fifth recommended image 75 may be displayed on the same terminal. With such a configuration, the same worker performs the processes shown in Figures 16 and 18.

[0149] (5) Figure 24 is a diagram illustrating a preferred example of the components of the additive described above. The additive may contain at least one of the first to third components. In Figure 24, each preferred component of the first to third components and the preferred mass percentage (wt%) of the component are specified. In this embodiment, the mass percentage is typically the ratio of the mass of the component to the mass of the carrier. The carrier is, for example, white oil.

[0150] The first component described above is a component belonging to the three-layer silicate, and more specifically, it includes at least one of Trefil® 1232 and mica. Trefil 1232 is a natural fluorphlogopite coated with aminosilane. The preferred components and ratios of Trefil 1232 are 41% SiO2 (silicon dioxide), 10% Al2O3 (aluminum oxide), 26% MgO (magnesium oxide), 2% CaO (calcium oxide), 10% K2O (potassium oxide), 8% Fe2O3 (iron(III) oxide), 2% H2O (water), and 1% F (fluorine).

[0151] Mica (MICA SFG70) is natural muscovite with a particle size of 70. The preferred composition of mica is SiO2 51.5%, Al2O3 27.0%, K2O 10.0%, CaO 0.4%, Fe2O3 2.9%, MgO 2.8%, TiO2 (titanium dioxide) 0.4%, Na2O (sodium oxide) 0.2%, P2O5 (phosphorus pentoxide) 0.2%, and MnO (manganese monoxide) 0.03%, with a roasting loss of 4.57%.

[0152] The preferred mass percentage of Trefil 1232 and mica is 7.2 wt%.

[0153] The second component described above comprises at least one of bentonite, pyrogenic silicic acid, and talc. The preferred mass percentages of bentonite, pyrogenic silicic acid, and talc are 2.4 wt%, 3.2 wt%, and 10 wt%, respectively.

[0154] The third component described above comprises at least one of Carbopower® SGN18, Special Black (e.g., carbon black), propylene carbonate, water, and a dispersant. The dispersant comprises at least one of TEGOPREN® 6875 and TEGOMER® DA646.

[0155] The preferred mass percentages of CarbopowerSGN18, Special Black, propylene carbonate, and water are 0.6 wt%, 0.04 wt%, 0.5 wt%, and 0.025 wt%, respectively.

[0156] Furthermore, the preferred mass percentage of TEGOPREN6875 and TEGOMERDA646 is 10 wt%. However, the mass percentage of TEGOPREN6875 and TEGOMERDA646 is the ratio of their mass to the total mass of all solids contained in the additive.

[0157] Furthermore, the mass percentage of the component shown in Figure 24 may be any value within the range with the said mass percentage as the median. For example, the mass percentage M of the component shown in Figure 24 may be any value within the range of M × (1 - α) or more and M × (1 + α) or less, where α is greater than 0 and less than 1. For example, α may be any value between "0.2" and "0.05".

[0158] For example, when α = 0.1, the mass percentage of Trefil1232 is considered to be one of the values ​​in the range of 6.48 (= 7.2 × 0.9) wt% or greater, and 7.92 (= 7.2 × 1.1) wt% or greater.

[0159] [Note] (Note 1) A method for maintaining bearings, The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. The aforementioned maintenance method is If it is determined that a first damage has occurred on the surface of the predetermined member, an additive is added to the lubricant to reduce the height of the protrusion caused by the first damage. A bearing maintenance method comprising replacing the lubricant or adding the additive to the lubricant if it is determined that the first damage will occur in the future, even though the first damage has not occurred yet.

[0160] (Note 2) If it is determined that a second damage, which is larger in scale than the first damage, has occurred on the surface, Adding an additive to the lubricant to increase the radius of curvature of the edge of the recess caused by the second damage, The bearing maintenance method described in Appendix 1, further comprising performing a controlled operation to reduce the rotational speed of the rotating body included in the bearing.

[0161] (Note 3) If the second damage has not occurred on the aforementioned surface but it is determined that the second damage will occur in the future, The flushing of the drive unit including the aforementioned bearing, The bearing maintenance method according to Appendix 2, further comprising adding an additive for reducing surface protrusions to the lubricant after flushing the drive unit.

[0162] (Note 4) A bearing maintenance method as described in Appendix 2 or Appendix 3, wherein, when the conditions for the occurrence of the first damage and the conditions for the non-occurrence of the second damage are met, it is determined that the first damage has occurred or that the first damage will occur in the future.

[0163] (Note 5) The aforementioned conditions for occurrence are: In past operation of the rotating machine including the bearing, the first condition is that the oil film parameter relating to the oil film of the lubricant fell below a threshold, The second condition is that, in past operation of the aforementioned rotating machine, the content of the bearing material in the lubricant tended to increase, A bearing maintenance method according to Appendix 4, comprising at least one of the following conditions: the kinematic viscosity of the lubricant has been decreasing in past operation of the rotating machine; and a third condition.

[0164] (Note 6) The aforementioned non-occurrence conditions are: The fourth condition is that it is determined that the second damage has not occurred on the surface, A bearing maintenance method according to Appendix 5, comprising at least one of the following conditions: the fifth condition is that, in past operation of the rotating machine including the bearing, the contamination coefficient of the bearing in accordance with ISO 281 (2007) is greater than a predetermined value.

[0165] (Note 7) A bearing maintenance method as described in Appendix 6, wherein it is determined that the first damage has occurred when the first, second, fourth, and fifth conditions are met.

[0166] (Note 8) A bearing maintenance method as described in Appendix 6 or Appendix 7, wherein when the first, third, and fourth conditions are met, it is determined that the first damage will occur in the future.

[0167] Furthermore, in the bearing maintenance method described in any one of the appendices 6 to 8, The predetermined member includes rolling elements, The predetermined value in the fifth condition is If the pitch diameter of the rolling element is less than 100 mm, it is 0.5. If the pitch diameter of the rolling element is 100 mm or more, it may be set to 0.6.

[0168] (Note 9) The sixth condition is that, in past operation of the rotating machine including the bearing, the contamination coefficient of the bearing in accordance with ISO 281 (2007) has been below a predetermined value, or that the contamination coefficient is on a downward trend, A bearing maintenance method according to any one of the appendices 3 to 8, wherein when the seventh condition is met, which is that the bearing monitoring device determines that no second damage has occurred on the surface, it is determined that the second damage will occur in the future.

[0169] Furthermore, the first damage described above may be micropitting. Also, the second damage described above may be delamination.

[0170] (Note 10) The aforementioned conditions for occurrence include at least one of the first condition, the second condition, the third condition, and the ninth condition. The maintenance method described in Appendix 5, wherein the ninth condition is that the material parameter relating to the size of multiple material pieces contained in at least a portion of the lubricant is less than the first reference value.

[0171] (Note 11) The aforementioned conditions for occurrence include at least one of the first condition, the second condition, the third condition, and the ninth condition. The ninth condition is that the material parameter relating to the size of multiple material pieces contained in at least a portion of the lubricant is less than the first reference value. The maintenance method described in Appendix 6, wherein it is determined that the first damage has occurred when at least one of the first and third conditions, the fourth condition, and at least one of the second and ninth conditions are met.

[0172] (Note 12) The maintenance method described in Appendix 10, wherein the second damage is determined to have occurred when the tenth condition, which is that the material parameter is greater than the second reference value, is met. The second reference value may be greater than the first reference value.

[0173] (Note 13) A bearing management device, The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. The aforementioned control device is An interface for acquiring damage data relating to damage to the surface of the predetermined member, Equipped with a control device, The control device is If it is determined based on the damage data that a first type of damage has occurred on the surface, information is transmitted to a designated terminal to recommend to the worker that an additive be added to the lubricant to reduce the height of the protrusion caused by the first type of damage. A management device that, when it is determined based on the damage data that the first damage has not occurred but is likely to occur in the future, transmits information to a predetermined terminal to recommend replacing the lubricant or adding the additive to the lubricant.

[0174] (Note 14) A bearing management device, The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. Damage to the surface of the predetermined member includes a first damage and a second damage which is larger in scale than the first damage. The aforementioned control device is An interface for acquiring damage data relating to damage to the surface of the predetermined member, Equipped with a control device, The control device is If it is determined based on the damage data that the second damage has occurred on the surface, information is transmitted to a predetermined terminal recommending the addition of an additive to the lubricant to increase the radius of curvature of the edge of the recess caused by the second damage, and the execution of a controlled operation that reduces the rotational speed of the rotating body contained in the bearing. A management device that, when it is determined based on the damage data that the second damage has not occurred but is likely to occur in the future, transmits information to a predetermined terminal recommending that the drive unit including the bearing be flushed, and that an additive to reduce surface protrusions be added to the lubricant after flushing the drive unit.

[0175] Furthermore, the system may determine whether the first damage has occurred and whether the first damage will occur in the future, based on damage data related to the damage and the first damage life related to the first damage calculated by the bearing management device using the first function.

[0176] Furthermore, it may be determined that the first damage has occurred when the first damage life reaches a specified value.

[0177] Furthermore, the predetermined member may include rolling elements, and the predetermined value in the seventh condition may be 0.3 when the pitch diameter of the rolling elements is less than 100 mm, and 0.4 when the pitch diameter of the rolling elements is 100 mm or more.

[0178] Furthermore, the system may determine whether the second damage has occurred and whether the second damage will occur in the future, based on damage data related to the damage and the second damage life related to the second damage calculated by the bearing management device using the second function.

[0179] The above appendix 12 is further explained below. For example, worker B may want to determine whether bearing 120 is experiencing first damage (e.g., micropitting) or second damage (e.g., delamination). However, it may be difficult to determine whether first or second damage is occurring. Therefore, the following disclosure is made to solve this problem, and its purpose is to assist worker B in determining whether first or second damage is occurring. For example, the following control device or control method is disclosed. The matters disclosed above may apply to said control device or control method.

[0180] (Disclosure Item 1) A bearing management device, The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. The aforementioned control device is An interface for acquiring observation images of at least a portion of the lubricant, Equipped with a control device, The control device is If the material parameter relating to the size of multiple material pieces contained in at least some of the lubricants is less than the first reference value, it is determined that the first damage has occurred. A control device that determines that a second damage greater than the first damage has occurred if the material parameter is greater than a second reference value which is greater than the first reference value.

[0181] (Disclosure Item 2) A method for managing bearings, The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. The aforementioned management method is, Obtaining an observation image of at least a portion of the lubricant, If the material parameter relating to the size of multiple material pieces contained in at least some of the lubricants is less than the first reference value, it is determined that the first damage has occurred. A control method comprising determining that a second damage greater than the first damage has occurred if the material parameter is greater than a second reference value.

[0182] Furthermore, the second reference value may be greater than the first reference value. The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the description of the embodiments above, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0183] 10 Management system, 20 Wind power generation device, 30 Collection device, 50 User terminal, 60 Wind power generation unit, 70 Worker terminal, 71 First recommended image, 72 Second recommended image, 73 Third recommended image, 74 Fourth recommended image, 75 Fifth recommended image, 100 Management device, 104 Memory, 106 Interface, 112 Acquisition unit, 114 Processing unit, 116 Storage unit, 120 Bearing, 121 Rotating body, 121A Surface, 122 Support, 123 Lubricant, 127 Damage data, 130 Detection device, 131 First function, 132 Second function, 170, 171 Micropitching, 180, 181 Peeling.

Claims

1. A method for maintaining bearings, The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. The aforementioned maintenance method is If it is determined that a first damage has occurred on the surface of the predetermined member, an additive is added to the lubricant to reduce the height of the protrusion caused by the first damage. A bearing maintenance method comprising replacing the lubricant or adding the additive to the lubricant if it is determined that the first damage will occur in the future, even though the first damage has not occurred yet.

2. If it is determined that a second damage, which is larger in scale than the first damage, has occurred on the surface, Adding an additive to the lubricant to increase the radius of curvature of the edge of the recess caused by the second damage, The method for maintaining a bearing according to claim 1, further comprising performing a controlled operation to reduce the rotational speed of a rotating body included in the bearing.

3. If the second damage has not occurred on the surface but it is determined that the second damage will occur in the future, The flushing of the drive unit including the aforementioned bearing, The bearing maintenance method according to claim 2, further comprising adding an additive for reducing surface protrusions to the lubricant after flushing the drive device.

4. A bearing maintenance method according to claim 2 or 3, wherein it is determined that the first damage has occurred or that the first damage will occur in the future when the conditions for the occurrence of the first damage and the conditions for the non-occurrence of the second damage are met.

5. The aforementioned conditions for occurrence are: In past operation of the rotating machine including the bearing, the first condition is that the oil film parameter relating to the oil film of the lubricant fell below a threshold, The second condition is that, in past operation of the aforementioned rotating machine, the content of the bearing material in the lubricant tended to increase, The bearing maintenance method according to claim 4, comprising at least one of the following conditions: the kinematic viscosity of the lubricant was decreasing during past operation of the rotating machine; and a third condition.

6. The aforementioned non-occurrence conditions are: The fourth condition is that it is determined that the second damage has not occurred on the surface, A method for maintaining a bearing according to claim 5, comprising at least one of the following conditions: in past operation of the rotating machine including the bearing, the contamination coefficient of the bearing in accordance with ISO 281 (2007) is greater than a predetermined value.

7. The bearing maintenance method according to claim 6, wherein it is determined that the first damage has occurred when the first, second, fourth, and fifth conditions are met.

8. The bearing maintenance method according to claim 6, wherein it is determined that the first damage will occur in the future when the first, third, and fourth conditions are met.

9. The sixth condition is that, in past operation of the rotating machine including the bearing, the contamination coefficient of the bearing in accordance with ISO 281 (2007) has been below a predetermined value, or that the contamination coefficient is on a downward trend, The bearing maintenance method according to claim 6, wherein when the seventh condition is met, which is that the bearing monitoring device determines that no second damage has occurred on the surface, it is determined that the second damage will occur in the future.

10. The aforementioned occurrence conditions include at least one of the first condition, the second condition, the third condition, and the ninth condition, The maintenance method according to claim 5, wherein the ninth condition is that a material parameter relating to the size of a plurality of material pieces contained in at least a portion of the lubricant is less than a first reference value.

11. The aforementioned occurrence conditions include at least one of the first condition, the second condition, the third condition, and the ninth condition, The ninth condition is that the material parameter relating to the size of a plurality of material pieces contained in at least a portion of the lubricant is less than a first reference value. The maintenance method according to claim 6, wherein it is determined that the first damage has occurred when at least one of the first and third conditions, the fourth condition, and at least one of the second and ninth conditions are met.

12. The maintenance method according to claim 10, wherein it is determined that the second damage has occurred when the tenth condition, which is that the material parameter is greater than the second reference value, is met.

13. A bearing management device, The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. The aforementioned control device is An interface for acquiring damage data relating to damage to the surface of the predetermined member, Equipped with a control device, The control device is If it is determined based on the damage data that a first type of damage has occurred on the surface, information is transmitted to a designated terminal to recommend to the worker that an additive be added to the lubricant to reduce the height of the protrusion caused by the first type of damage. A management device that, when it is determined based on the damage data that the first damage has not occurred but is likely to occur in the future, transmits information to a predetermined terminal to recommend replacing the lubricant or adding the additive to the lubricant.

14. A bearing management device, The bearing comprises a predetermined member and a lubricant for lubricating the predetermined member. Damage to the surface of the predetermined member includes a first damage and a second damage which is larger in scale than the first damage. The aforementioned control device is An interface for acquiring damage data relating to damage to the surface of the predetermined member, Equipped with a control device, The control device is If it is determined based on the damage data that the second damage has occurred on the surface, information is transmitted to a predetermined terminal recommending the addition of an additive to the lubricant to increase the radius of curvature of the edge of the recess caused by the second damage, and the execution of a controlled operation to reduce the rotational speed of the rotating body contained in the bearing. A management device that, when it is determined based on the damage data that the second damage has not occurred but is likely to occur in the future, transmits information to a predetermined terminal recommending that the drive unit including the bearing be flushed, and that an additive to reduce surface protrusions be added to the lubricant after flushing the drive unit.

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