Health determination device, air brake system, and health determination method

Abstract

This invention provides a health determination device, an air brake system, and a health determination method that are easy for users to use when performing maintenance on air compressors. [Solution] In the health determination device 200, the detection data acquisition unit 231 acquires detection data DA, which represents the detected value of a physical quantity that depends on the health of the air compressor. The health determination unit 232 uses the detection data DA or processed data and the determination criterion data 241 to determine whether the air compressor is in a normal state, a state requiring inspection, or a state of abnormality. Furthermore, if the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor is in a state requiring inspection, it outputs inspection notification information indicating that the components of the air compressor are in a state requiring inspection, and if it determines that the air compressor is in a state of abnormality, it outputs abnormality notification information indicating that the components of the air compressor are in a state of abnormality.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a soundness determination device, an air brake system, and a soundness determination method.

Background Art

[0002] As disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is known an abnormality determination device that determines the presence or absence of an abnormality in a pneumatic compressor that generates compressed air used in the air brake of a railway vehicle.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The abnormality determination device according to Patent Document 1 has a function of determining whether an abnormality has occurred in the pneumatic compressor, but does not have a function of notifying the degree of severity of the occurred abnormality. Therefore, it was difficult to say that it was easy to use for a user who performs maintenance of the pneumatic compressor upon receiving notification of the determination result from the abnormality determination device.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a soundness determination device, an air brake system, and a soundness determination method that are easy to use for a user who performs maintenance of a pneumatic compressor.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] With the above configuration, the output of the health determination unit allows users to determine whether the components of the air compressor are in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. Therefore, users performing maintenance on the air compressor can take appropriate action according to the respective state. For this reason, the health determination device according to this disclosure is easy for users performing maintenance on the air compressor to use. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Conceptual diagram showing the configuration of the air brake system according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 2] Conceptual diagram showing the configuration of the air compressor and health determination device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Conceptual diagram showing the function of the health determination device according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 4] Flowchart of the first integrity determination process for the oil mist filter according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 5]Flowchart of the first integrity determination process for the oil filter according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 6] This graph shows the relationship between the amount of residual lubricating oil in the oil separator according to Embodiment 1 and the pressure of the lubricating oil returning to the air compressor. [Figure 7] Flowchart of the first health determination process for the lubrication oil circulation system according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 8] A graph showing the relationship between the amount of residual lubricating oil and the temperature of the lubricating oil in the oil separator according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] Flowchart of the second health determination process for the lubrication oil circulation system according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 10] Conceptual diagram showing the function of the health determination device according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 11] Flowchart of the third health determination process for the lubrication oil circulation system according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 12] Flowchart of the fourth health determination process for the lubrication oil circulation system according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 13] Flowchart of the second integrity determination process for the oil mist filter according to Embodiment 2 [Figure 14] Flowchart of the second oil filter health determination process according to Embodiment 2 [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The following description of an air brake system according to an embodiment will be given with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0010] [Embodiment 1] Figure 1 shows the configuration of the air brake system 400 according to this embodiment. This air brake system 400 is mounted on a railway vehicle and brakes the railway vehicle in response to brake operations performed by the crew or commands from an automatic braking device.

[0011] The air brake system 400 includes a pneumatic compressor 100 that generates compressed air, a brake device 300 that applies a braking force to a railway vehicle using the compressed air generated by the pneumatic compressor 100 to reduce the speed of the railway vehicle, and a soundness determination device 200 that determines the soundness of the pneumatic compressor 100.

[0012] The brake device 300 presses a brake shoe against the wheels of the railway vehicle using the pressure of the compressed air generated by the pneumatic compressor 100. As a result, a braking force acts on the railway vehicle due to the friction between the brake shoe and the wheels.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 2, the pneumatic compressor 100 includes an air filter 101 that captures dust in the air, and an air compressor 102 that sucks in air through the air filter 101 and compresses and discharges the sucked-in air. The air compressor 102 is an oil-fed type that uses lubricating oil, and when air is compressed by the air compressor 102, a part of the lubricating oil mixes into the compressed air.

[0014] Therefore, the pneumatic compressor 100 includes an oil separator 103 that separates the components of the lubricating oil from the mixture of the compressed air and the lubricating oil discharged by the air compressor 102, and an oil mist filter 104 that captures the mist-like lubricating oil that could not be separated by the oil separator 103.

[0015] Further, the pneumatic compressor 100 includes an aftercooler 105 that cools the compressed air that has passed through the oil mist filter 104, a drain filter 106 that captures the drain generated by the aftercooler 105 from the compressed air that has passed through the aftercooler 105, a dehumidifier 107 that dehumidifies the compressed air that has passed through the drain filter 106, and a primary air reservoir 108 that stores the compressed air dehumidified by the dehumidifier 107. The compressed air stored in the primary air reservoir 108 is supplied to the brake device 300 shown in FIG. 1.

[0016] Furthermore, the air compressor 100 includes a fluid flow pipeline 109 connecting the air filter 101 and the air compressor 102, a fluid flow pipeline 110 connecting the air compressor 102 and the oil separator 103, a fluid flow pipeline 111 connecting the oil separator 103 and the oil mist filter 104, and a fluid flow pipeline 112 connecting the oil mist filter 104, the aftercooler 105, the drain filter 106, the dehumidifier 107, and the main air reservoir 108.

[0017] Air as a fluid flows through fluid conduit 109. A mixture of compressed air and lubricating oil as a fluid flows through fluid conduits 110 and 111. Compressed air as a fluid flows through fluid conduit 112.

[0018] Furthermore, the air compressor 100 is equipped with a fluid flow channel 113 that returns the lubricating oil separated by the oil separator 103 to the air compressor 102. The lubricating oil flows through the fluid flow channel 113 as a fluid.

[0019] Furthermore, the air compressor 100 is equipped with an oil filter 114 and an oil cooler 115 located in the fluid flow pipeline 113. The oil filter 114 removes foreign matter from the lubricating oil separated by the oil separator 103. The oil cooler 115 cools the lubricating oil. The air compressor 102, fluid flow pipeline 110, oil separator 103, oil filter 114, oil cooler 115, and fluid flow pipeline 113 described above constitute a lubricating oil circulation system 116 through which the lubricating oil circulates.

[0020] Furthermore, the lubricating oil automatically returns to the air compressor 102 from the oil separator 103 through the fluid flow pipeline 113 due to the negative pressure created inside the air compressor 102. For this reason, no pump is provided in the fluid flow pipeline 113.

[0021] Next, we will describe the configuration of the health determination device 200, which determines the health of the air compressor 100 described above.

[0022] The health determination device 200 includes a first pressure sensor 211 positioned at a predetermined detection location between the oil separator 103 and the oil mist filter 104 in the fluid flow pipeline 111, a second pressure sensor 212 positioned at a predetermined detection location between the oil cooler 115 and the air compressor 102 in the fluid flow pipeline 113, and a third pressure sensor 213 positioned at a predetermined detection location between the dehumidifier 107 and the main air reservoir 108 in the fluid flow pipeline 112.

[0023] The first pressure sensor 211 detects the pressure of the mixture of compressed air and lubricating oil as a fluid flowing into the oil mist filter 104. The second pressure sensor 212 detects the oil pressure of the lubricating oil as a fluid returning to the air compressor 102. The third pressure sensor 213 detects the pressure of the compressed air as a fluid flowing into the main air reservoir 108. These pressures are examples of physical quantities that depend on the integrity of the air compressor 100.

[0024] Furthermore, the health determination device 200 includes a first temperature sensor 221 positioned at a predetermined detection location between the air compressor 102 and the oil separator 103 in the fluid flow pipeline 110, a second temperature sensor 222 positioned at a predetermined detection location between the oil filter 114 and the oil cooler 115 in the fluid flow pipeline 113, and a third temperature sensor 223 positioned at a predetermined detection location between the oil cooler 115 and the air compressor 102 in the fluid flow pipeline 113.

[0025] The first temperature sensor 221 detects the temperature of the mixture of compressed air and lubricating oil as the fluid flowing through the fluid flow pipeline 110. The second temperature sensor 222 and the third temperature sensor 223 detect the temperature of the lubricating oil as the fluid flowing through the fluid flow pipeline 113. These temperatures are just another example of physical quantities that depend on the integrity of the air compressor 100.

[0026] Furthermore, the health determination device 200 includes a processor 230 that performs health determination processing to determine the health of the air compressor 100. The processor 230 acquires detection data DA, which is the detection result, from each of the first pressure sensor 211, second pressure sensor 212, third pressure sensor 213, first temperature sensor 221, second temperature sensor 222, and third temperature sensor 223, and performs health determination processing using the acquired detection data DA.

[0027] In determining the health of the air compressor 100, the processor 230 determines whether the components of the air compressor 100 are in one of the following states: (i) a normal state in which no maintenance is required; (ii) a state requiring inspection in which it is not in a normal state and inspection is desirable, but operation can be continued for the time being; or (iii) a state where it is neither in a normal state nor a state requiring inspection, an abnormality has occurred, and maintenance must be carried out immediately.

[0028] Furthermore, the health determination device 200 includes a data storage unit 240 that stores determination criteria data 241 representing the criteria for determining whether the air compressor 100 is in a normal state, and the criteria for determining whether the air compressor 100 is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality.

[0029] The judgment criterion data 241 is data relating to pressure or temperature, which are physical quantities that depend on the health of the air compressor 100. The processor 230 performs health determination processing using the judgment criterion data 241.

[0030] Furthermore, the data storage unit 240 stores a health determination program 242 that defines the procedure for health determination processing. The functions realized by the processor 230 executing the health determination program 242 will be described below.

[0031] As shown in Figure 3, the processor 230 has the function of a detection data acquisition unit 231 that acquires the detection data DA described above, and a health determination unit 232 that uses the detection data DA acquired by the detection data acquisition unit 231 to determine whether the components of the air compressor 100 are in a normal state, a state requiring inspection, or a state of abnormality.

[0032] The health determination unit 232 uses the judgment criterion data 241 as the judgment criterion for health determination. If the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in a state requiring inspection, it outputs inspection notification information indicating the component in the air compressor 100 that is in a state requiring inspection and that the component is in a state requiring inspection. If the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in a state of abnormality, it outputs abnormality notification information indicating the component in the air compressor 100 that is in a state of abnormality and that the component is in a state of abnormality.

[0033] Returning to Figure 2, we will now specifically explain the components of the air compressor 100 that are subject to the soundness assessment.

[0034] The detected data DA includes the first pressure data DP1 detected by the first pressure sensor 211, the second pressure data DP2 detected by the second pressure sensor 212, the third pressure data DP3 detected by the third pressure sensor 213, the first temperature data DT1 detected by the first temperature sensor 221, the second temperature data DT2 detected by the second temperature sensor 222, and the third temperature data DT3 detected by the third temperature sensor 223.

[0035] The components subject to health assessment are predetermined by the placement position of each of the first pressure sensor 211, second pressure sensor 212, third pressure sensor 213, first temperature sensor 221, second temperature sensor 222, and third temperature sensor 223 in the air compressor 100, which are the sources of the detected data DA.

[0036] Specifically, the first pressure data DP1 is used in the first oil mist filter integrity determination process, which determines the integrity of the oil mist filter 104 as a component. The second pressure data DP2 is used in the first oil filter integrity determination process, which determines the integrity of the oil filter 114 as a component, and in the first lubrication oil circulation system integrity determination process, which determines the integrity of the lubrication oil circulation system 116 as a component.

[0037] Furthermore, the first temperature data DT1, the second temperature data DT2, and the third temperature data DT3 are used in the second lubrication oil circulation system integrity determination process, which determines the integrity of the lubrication oil circulation system 116 as a component. The following describes each of the integrity determination processes described above in detail.

[0038] Referring to Figure 4, the first health determination process for the oil mist filter will be explained first.

[0039] First, the detection data acquisition unit 231 acquires the first pressure data DP1 from the first pressure sensor 211. The pressure value P1 represented by the first pressure data DP1 is an example of a physical quantity that depends on the integrity of the oil mist filter 104. That is, the higher the pressure value P1, the higher the degree of contamination of the oil mist filter 104.

[0040] Next, the health determination unit 232 compares the pressure value P1 represented by the first pressure data DP1 with a threshold α1, which is a first threshold value representing the pressure value that serves as the criterion for determining whether or not the air compressor 100 is in a normal state (normal determination step S11). This threshold α1 is included in the determination criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0041] If the pressure value P1 represented by the first pressure data DP1 is less than or equal to the threshold α1 (normal determination step S11; NO), it indicates that the compressed air is passing through the oil mist filter 104 without obstruction. Therefore, the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in a normal state. In this case, the process returns to normal determination step S11.

[0042] On the other hand, if the pressure value P1 represented by the first pressure data DP1 exceeds the threshold α1 (normality determination step S11; YES), it cannot be said that the compressed air is passing through the oil mist filter 104 without obstruction. Therefore, in order to determine the degree of abnormality in the oil mist filter 104, the health determination unit 232 compares the pressure value P1 represented by the first pressure data DP1 with a threshold α2 that is greater than the threshold α1 (abnormality determination step S12).

[0043] This threshold α2 is an example of a second threshold value that represents the pressure value used as a criterion for determining whether the air compressor 100 is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. Like threshold α1, threshold α2 is included in the judgment criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0044] If the pressure value P1 represented by the first pressure data DP1 is greater than or equal to the threshold α2 (abnormality determination step S12; NO), it can be said that the compressed air pressure before the oil mist filter 104 is abnormally high due to clogging of the oil mist filter 104.

[0045] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in an abnormal state and outputs abnormal notification information indicating that the oil mist filter 104 is in an abnormal state (abnormal notification step S13). Then, it returns to the normal determination step S11.

[0046] On the other hand, if the pressure value P1 represented by the first pressure data DP1 is less than the threshold α2 (abnormality determination step S12; YES), it cannot be said that the oil mist filter 104 is clogged, but since the compressed air pressure is high before the oil mist filter 104, it is advisable to inspect the oil mist filter 104.

[0047] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in a state requiring inspection and outputs an inspection notification information indicating that the oil mist filter 104 is in a state requiring inspection (inspection notification step S14). Then, it returns to the normal determination step S11. An example of an output destination for the inspection notification information is a display device installed in the driver's cab of a railway vehicle.

[0048] An example of an output destination for abnormality notification information and inspection-required notification information is a display device installed in the driver's cab of a railway vehicle. A user who receives abnormality notification information regarding the oil mist filter 104 can take measures to replace the oil mist filter 104 with a new one. A user who receives inspection-required notification information regarding the oil mist filter 104 can inspect the oil mist filter 104 and its surrounding components, and if no abnormalities are found, can take measures to replace the oil mist filter 104 with a new one at an appropriate time later.

[0049] Referring to Figure 5, the oil filter health determination process will now be explained.

[0050] First, the detection data acquisition unit 231 acquires the second pressure data DP2 from the second pressure sensor 212. The pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 is an example of a physical quantity that depends on the integrity of the oil filter 114. That is, the lower the pressure value P2, the higher the degree of contamination of the oil filter 114.

[0051] Next, the health determination unit 232 compares the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 with a threshold value α3, which is a first threshold value representing the pressure value that serves as the criterion for determining whether or not the oil filter 114 of the air compressor 100 is in a normal state (normal determination step S21). This threshold value α3 is included in the determination criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0052] If the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 is greater than the threshold α3 (normal determination step S21; YES), it indicates that the lubricating oil is passing through the oil filter 114 without obstruction. Therefore, the health determination unit 232 determines that the oil filter 114 of the air compressor 100 is in a normal state. In this case, the process returns to normal determination step S21.

[0053] On the other hand, if the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 is less than or equal to the threshold α3 (normal determination step S21; NO), it cannot be said that the lubricating oil is passing through the oil filter 114 without obstruction. Therefore, in order to determine the degree of abnormality in the oil filter 114, the health determination unit 232 compares the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 with a threshold α4 which is smaller than the threshold α3 (abnormality determination step S22).

[0054] This threshold α4 is an example of a second threshold value that represents the pressure value used as a criterion for determining whether the oil filter 114 of the air compressor 100 is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. Like threshold α3, threshold α4 is included in the judgment criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0055] If the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 is less than or equal to the threshold α4 (abnormality determination step S22; NO), it can be said that the oil filter 114 is clogged, causing an abnormally low pressure between the oil filter 114 and the lubricating oil suction port of the air compressor 102.

[0056] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in an abnormal state and outputs abnormal notification information indicating the oil filter 114 and that the oil filter 114 is in an abnormal state (abnormal notification step S23). Then, it returns to the normal determination step S21.

[0057] On the other hand, if the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 is greater than the threshold α4 (abnormality determination step S22; YES), it cannot be said that the oil filter 114 is clogged, but the oil pressure downstream of the oil filter 114 is low, so it is advisable to inspect the oil filter 114.

[0058] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in a state requiring inspection and outputs an inspection notification indicating the oil filter 114 and that the oil filter 114 is in a state requiring inspection (inspection notification step S24). Then, it returns to the normal determination step S21.

[0059] An example of an output destination for abnormality notification information and inspection-required notification information is a display device installed in the driver's cab of a railway vehicle. A user who receives abnormality notification information regarding the oil filter 114 can take measures to replace the oil filter 114 with a new one. A user who receives inspection-required notification information regarding the oil filter 114 can inspect the oil filter 114 and its surrounding components, and if no abnormalities are found, can take measures to replace the oil filter 114 with a new one at an appropriate time later.

[0060] Next, we will explain the first health determination process for the lubricating oil circulation system. First, we will explain the significance of lubricating oil in the lubricating oil circulation system 116 and the knowledge that formed the basis of the first health determination process for the lubricating oil circulation system.

[0061] As shown in Figure 2, the lubricating oil separated by the oil separator 103 is stored in the oil reservoir 103a, which acts as a buffer for the oil separator 103, and then circulates through the lubricating oil circulation system 116. In the lubricating oil circulation system 116, this lubricating oil not only reduces friction inside the air compressor 102 but also cools the compressed air.

[0062] Therefore, it is necessary that the oil reservoir 103a always contains a predetermined amount of lubricating oil or more. Furthermore, the less the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is below the predetermined amount, the less effectively the above-mentioned functions of the lubricating oil can be performed, which indicates a higher degree of abnormality in the lubricating oil circulation system 116.

[0063] Therefore, the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a can be used as an indicator of the health of the lubricating oil circulation system 116. However, in order to directly detect the amount of lubricating oil remaining, it is necessary to provide a level sensor that measures the height of the oil level in the oil reservoir 103a, which complicates the configuration of the oil separator 103.

[0064] In view of the above problems, the inventors of the present invention have conducted extensive research on a method for indirectly determining the amount of lubricating oil remaining without complicating the configuration of the oil separator 103. As a result, they have found that the detection value of the second pressure sensor 212, which was previously used to determine the integrity of the oil filter 114, correlates with the amount of lubricating oil remaining. This will be explained in detail below.

[0065] Figure 6 is a graph showing the relationship between the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a and the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 detected by the second pressure sensor 212. As this graph shows, it was found that the less lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a, the larger the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 becomes.

[0066] Therefore, the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 can be used in the first lubrication oil circulation system health determination process, which determines the health of the lubrication oil circulation system 116. In other words, the larger the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2, the smaller the amount of residual lubrication oil in the oil reservoir 103a, and therefore the higher the degree of abnormality in the lubrication oil circulation system 116.

[0067] As described above, the second pressure sensor 212 used for determining the integrity of the oil filter 114 is also used to determine the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a, thus avoiding the need to complicate the configuration of the oil separator 103 and, consequently, the lubricating oil circulation system 116.

[0068] Referring to Figure 7, the first health determination process for the lubrication oil circulation system will be explained in detail below.

[0069] First, the detection data acquisition unit 231 acquires the second pressure data DP2 from the second pressure sensor 212. Next, the health determination unit 232 compares the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 with a threshold value α5, which is the first threshold value representing the pressure value that serves as the criterion for determining whether the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is in a normal state (normal determination step S31). This threshold value α5 is included in the judgment criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0070] If the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 is less than or equal to the threshold α5 (normal determination step S31; NO), it indicates that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is sufficient. Therefore, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubricating oil circulation system 116 is in a normal state. In this case, the process returns to normal determination step S31.

[0071] On the other hand, if the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 exceeds the threshold α5 (normal determination step S31; YES), it cannot be said that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is sufficient. Therefore, in order to determine the degree of abnormality in the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a, the health determination unit 232 compares the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 with a threshold α6 which is greater than the threshold α5 (abnormality determination step S32).

[0072] This threshold α6 is an example of a second threshold value that represents the pressure value used as a criterion for determining whether the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the oil reservoir 103a is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. Like threshold α5, threshold α6 is included in the judgment criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0073] If the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 is greater than or equal to the threshold α6 (abnormality determination step S32; NO), it can be said that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is so insufficient that immediate replenishment is necessary.

[0074] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in an abnormal state and outputs abnormal notification information indicating that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 and the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the lubrication oil circulation system 116 are in an abnormal state (abnormal notification step S33). Then, it returns to the normal determination step S31.

[0075] On the other hand, if the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 is less than the threshold α6 (abnormality determination step S32; YES), it cannot be said that immediate lubrication is necessary, but since the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a has decreased, it is advisable to inspect the lubricating oil circulation system 116.

[0076] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in a state requiring inspection, and outputs inspection notification information indicating that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 and the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the lubrication oil circulation system 116 are in a state requiring inspection (inspection notification step S34). Then, it returns to the normal determination step S31.

[0077] An example of an output destination for abnormality notification information and inspection-required notification information is a display device installed in the driver's cab of a railway vehicle. A user who receives abnormality notification information regarding the lubrication oil circulation system 116 can take measures such as replenishing lubrication oil in the oil reservoir 103a or the air compressor 102. A user who receives inspection-required notification information regarding the lubrication oil circulation system 116 can take measures such as checking whether there is a lubrication oil leak in the lubrication oil circulation system 116. If there is no lubrication oil leak, the user can take measures such as replenishing lubrication oil in the oil reservoir 103a or the air compressor 102 at an appropriate time later.

[0078] Next, we will explain the second health assessment process for the lubricating oil circulation system. First, we will explain the knowledge that formed the basis of the second health assessment process for the lubricating oil circulation system.

[0079] Figure 8 is a graph showing the relationship between the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a of the oil separator 103 and the temperature value T1 represented by the first temperature data DT1, the temperature value T2 represented by the second temperature data DT2, and the temperature value T3 represented by the third temperature data DT3.

[0080] As these graphs show, it was found that temperature values ​​T1, T2, and T3 all fluctuate depending on the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the region where the amount of lubricating oil is less than approximately 4L. Specifically, as the amount of lubricating oil remaining decreases, temperature values ​​T1 and T2 rise, and temperature value T3 decreases.

[0081] Therefore, the temperature values ​​T1, T2, and T3 can be used in the second lubrication oil circulation system health determination process, which determines the health of the lubrication oil circulation system 116. In other words, the larger the temperature values ​​T1 and T2, and the smaller the temperature value T3, the smaller the amount of residual lubrication oil in the oil reservoir 103a, and therefore the higher the degree of abnormality in the lubrication oil circulation system 116.

[0082] Referring to Figure 9, the second health determination process for the lubrication oil circulation system will be explained in detail below.

[0083] First, the detection data acquisition unit 231 acquires a first temperature data DT1 representing the temperature value T1, a second temperature data DT2 representing the temperature value T2, and a third temperature data DT3 representing the temperature value T3.

[0084] Next, the health determination unit 232 compares the temperature values ​​T1 and T2 with a threshold β1, which is a first threshold value representing the temperature value that serves as the criterion for determining whether the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is in a normal state, in order to perform a health determination using the temperature values ​​T1 and T2 (first normal determination step S41). This threshold β1 is included in the determination criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0085] If both temperature values ​​T1 and T2 are below the threshold β1 (first normal determination step S41; NO), then from the perspective of temperature values ​​T1 and T2, the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is considered sufficient. In this case, the health determination unit 232 assigns 0 to the flag variable F (first flag setting step S42).

[0086] On the other hand, if both temperature values ​​T1 and T2 exceed threshold β1 (first normal determination step S41; YES), then, from the standpoint of temperature values ​​T1 and T2, the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a cannot be said to be sufficient. Therefore, in order to determine the degree of abnormality in the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a, the health determination unit 232 compares temperature values ​​T1 and T2 with threshold β2, which is greater than threshold β1 (first abnormality determination step S43).

[0087] This threshold β2 is an example of a second threshold value that represents the pressure value used as a criterion for determining whether the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the oil reservoir 103a is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. Like threshold β1, threshold β2 is also included in the judgment criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0088] If both temperature values ​​T1 and T2 are above the threshold β2 (first abnormality determination step S43; NO), it can be said that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is so insufficient that immediate replenishment is necessary.

[0089] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in an abnormal state and outputs abnormal notification information indicating that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 and the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the lubrication oil circulation system 116 are in an abnormal state (abnormal notification step S44). Then, it returns to the first normal determination step S41.

[0090] On the other hand, if both temperature values ​​T1 and T2 are below the threshold β2 (first abnormality determination step S43; YES), it cannot be said that lubrication is immediately necessary, but there is concern that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is decreasing. In this case, the health determination unit 232 assigns 1 to the flag variable F (second flag setting step S45).

[0091] After the first flag setting step S42 or the second flag setting step 45, the health determination unit 232 compares the temperature value T3 with a threshold value β3, which represents the temperature value that serves as the criterion for determining whether the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is in a normal state, in order to perform a health determination using the temperature value T3 (second normal determination step S46). This threshold value β3 is included in the determination criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0092] If the temperature value T3 is greater than or equal to the threshold β3 (second normal determination step S46; NO), then from the perspective of the temperature value T3, the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is considered sufficient. In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines whether or not the flag variable F is 0 (flag determination step S47).

[0093] If the flag variable F is 0 (flag determination step S47; YES), the amount of remaining lubricating oil is sufficient from the standpoint of temperature values ​​T1 and T2, and the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubricating oil circulation system 116 is in a normal state. In this case, the process returns to the first normal determination step S41.

[0094] On the other hand, if the temperature value T3 is less than the threshold β3 (second normal determination step S46; YES), then from the perspective of the temperature value T3, the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a cannot be said to be sufficient. Therefore, in order to determine the degree of abnormality in the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a, the health determination unit 232 compares the temperature value T3 with a threshold β4 which is smaller than the threshold β3 (second abnormality determination step S48).

[0095] This threshold β4 is an example of a second threshold value that represents the pressure value used as a criterion for determining whether the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the oil reservoir 103a is in a state requiring inspection or an abnormal condition. Like threshold β3, threshold β4 is included in the judgment criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0096] If the temperature value T3 is below the threshold β4 (second abnormality determination step S48; NO), it can be said that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is so insufficient that immediate replenishment is necessary. In this case, the health determination unit 232 proceeds to the abnormality notification step S44 described above.

[0097] On the other hand, if the temperature value T3 exceeds the threshold β4 (second abnormality determination step S48; YES), it cannot be said that immediate lubrication is necessary, but there is concern that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is decreasing, so it is advisable to inspect the lubricating oil circulation system 116.

[0098] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in a state requiring inspection, and outputs inspection notification information indicating that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 and the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the lubrication oil circulation system 116 are in a state requiring inspection (inspection notification step S49). Then, it returns to the first normal determination step S41.

[0099] Furthermore, if the flag variable F is 1 in the flag determination step S47 (flag determination step S47; NO), the system can be considered in a normal state from the perspective of the temperature value T3, but it can be considered in a state requiring inspection from the perspective of the temperature values ​​T1 and T2, so the system proceeds to the inspection notification step S49.

[0100] Furthermore, a user who receives an abnormality notification regarding the lubrication oil circulation system 116 may take measures such as replenishing lubrication oil in the oil reservoir 103a or the air compressor 102. Also, a user who receives an inspection notification regarding the lubrication oil circulation system 116 may take measures such as inspecting the lubrication oil circulation system 116 for any lubrication oil leaks. If no lubrication oil leaks are detected, the user may then replenish lubrication oil in the oil reservoir 103a or the air compressor 102 at an appropriate time.

[0101] As described above, according to this embodiment, the output of the health determination unit 232 makes it possible to determine whether the components of the air compressor 100 are in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. Therefore, users who perform maintenance on the air compressor 100 can take appropriate action according to each state. For this reason, the health determination device 200 according to this embodiment is easy for users who perform maintenance on the air compressor 100 to use.

[0102] [Embodiment 2] Figure 3 illustrates a configuration in which the health determination unit 232 uses the detected data DA itself for health determination. The health determination unit 232 may also use the detected data DA after it has undergone calculation processing for health determination. Specific examples are described below.

[0103] As shown in Figure 10, the processor 230 according to this embodiment has a function of an arithmetic processing unit 233 that performs predetermined arithmetic processing to extract feature quantities representing the health of the air compressor 100 from the detection data DA acquired by the detection data acquisition unit 231.

[0104] The arithmetic processing unit 233 outputs the processed data DB, which is the detected data DA after undergoing arithmetic processing. The health determination unit 232 performs a health determination using the processed data DB calculated by the arithmetic processing unit 233 and the determination criterion data 241, which represents a physical quantity of the same dimension as the processed data DB.

[0105] The following describes the case where the arithmetic processing unit 233 functions as a temperature deviation calculation unit that performs calculations to calculate the absolute value of the deviation of the temperature represented by the detected data DA from a predetermined reference value. In this case, the processed data DB represents the temperature deviation degree, which is the degree of deviation of the temperature from the reference value. In addition, judgment criterion data 241 representing the temperature deviation degree is prepared in advance.

[0106] As shown in Figure 8, in the region where the amount of lubricating oil remaining is considered sufficient (approximately 5L or more), the temperature value T1 stabilizes at the steady-state value ST1, the temperature value T2 stabilizes at the steady-state value ST2, and the temperature value T3 stabilizes at the steady-state value ST3. On the other hand, as the amount of lubricating oil remaining decreases, the temperature value T1 deviates from the steady-state value ST1, the temperature value T2 deviates from the steady-state value ST2, and the temperature value T3 deviates from the steady-state value ST3.

[0107] Therefore, by using the steady-state values ​​ST1, ST2, and ST3 as reference values, the absolute value ΔT1 of the deviation of temperature value T1 from reference value ST1, the absolute value ΔT2 of the deviation of temperature value T2 from reference value ST2, and the absolute value ΔT3 of the deviation of temperature value T3 from reference value ST3 can be used in the third lubrication oil circulation system health determination process, which determines the health of the lubrication oil circulation system 116.

[0108] Referring to Figure 11, the third health determination process for the lubrication oil circulation system will be described below.

[0109] First, the detection data acquisition unit 231 acquires the first temperature data DT1, the second temperature data DT2, and the third temperature data DT3 as detection data DA.

[0110] Next, the calculation processing unit 233 performs calculations to calculate the aforementioned ΔT1, ΔT2, and ΔT3 using the first temperature data DT1, second temperature data DT2, and third temperature data DT3 as detection data DA, and the pre-given reference values ​​ST1, ST2, and ST3 (calculation step S51). These ΔT1, ΔT2, and ΔT3 are examples of the calculated data DB described above.

[0111] Next, the health determination unit 232 compares each of the calculated data DB ΔT1, ΔT2, and ΔT3 with a threshold β5, which is a first threshold representing the temperature deviation degree that serves as the criterion for determining whether the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the oil reservoir 103a is in a normal state (normal determination step S52). This threshold β5 is included in the determination criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0112] If all of the calculated data DB values ​​ΔT1, ΔT2, and ΔT3 are less than the threshold β5 (normality determination step S52; YES), it indicates that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is sufficient. Therefore, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubricating oil circulation system 116 is in a normal state. In this case, the process returns to calculation step S51.

[0113] On the other hand, if at least one of the processed data DBs ΔT1, ΔT2, and ΔT3 is greater than or equal to the threshold β5 (normality determination step S52; NO), then the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a cannot be said to be sufficient. Therefore, in order to determine the degree of abnormality in the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a, the health determination unit 232 compares each of the processed data DBs ΔT1, ΔT2, and ΔT3 with a threshold β6 that is greater than the threshold β5 (abnormality determination step S53).

[0114] This threshold β6 is an example of a second threshold representing the temperature deviation degree that serves as a criterion for determining whether the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the oil reservoir 103a is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. Like threshold β5, threshold β6 is included in the judgment criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0115] If at least one of the processed data DBs ΔT1, ΔT2, and ΔT3 is greater than or equal to the threshold β6 (abnormality determination step S53; NO), it can be said that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is so low that immediate refueling is necessary.

[0116] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in an abnormal state and outputs abnormal notification information that identifies the lubrication oil circulation system 116 and indicates that the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in an abnormal state (abnormal notification step S54). Then, it returns to the calculation step S51.

[0117] On the other hand, if all of the processed data DB values ​​ΔT1, ΔT2, and ΔT3 are below the threshold β6 (abnormality determination step S53; YES), it cannot be said that immediate lubrication is necessary, but since the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a has decreased, it is advisable to inspect the lubricating oil circulation system 116.

[0118] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in a state requiring inspection, and outputs inspection notification information that identifies the lubrication oil circulation system 116 and indicates that the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in a state requiring inspection (inspection notification step S55). Then, it returns to the calculation step S51.

[0119] Next, we will describe the case where the arithmetic processing unit 233 is a pressure difference calculation unit that performs a calculation process to determine the pressure difference on the detected data DA. In this case, the processed data DB represents the degree of fluttering, which is the magnitude of the pressure fluctuation. In addition, judgment criterion data 241 representing the same degree of fluttering is prepared in advance.

[0120] As shown in Figure 6, the smaller the amount of residual lubricating oil in the oil reservoir 103a, the larger the average value of the pressure P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 becomes, and the greater the fluctuation in the pressure P2, or the degree of instability.

[0121] Therefore, the degree of fluctuation of the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 can be used in the fourth lubrication oil circulation system health determination process, which determines the health of the lubrication oil circulation system 116. In other words, the greater the degree of fluctuation of the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2, the less residual lubrication oil there is in the oil reservoir 103a, and therefore the higher the degree of abnormality in the lubrication oil circulation system 116.

[0122] The degree of fluttering can be quantified by D (hereinafter referred to as fluttering degree D) shown in equation (1) below. However, since the second pressure data DP2 is time-series data of the pressure value P2, the second pressure data DP2 is represented as an array P2(t) that includes time t. Also, the sampling period of the second pressure sensor 212 was set to Δt.

[0123]

number

[0124] As described above, the degree of flutter D, which represents the magnitude of fluctuation, is defined as the sum of the absolute values ​​of the differences in pressure P2 over a predetermined time width (m+1)·Δt. Even if the change in pressure P2 over a time width Δt is small, the sum of that change over the time width (m+1)·Δt can be a large value. Therefore, it can be said that the degree of flutter D represents the intensity of the change in pressure P2 over the above time width (m+1)·Δt. Alternatively, the degree of flutter per unit time can be calculated by dividing D by the constant time width (m+1)·Δt, and this can then be defined as D.

[0125] Referring to Figure 12, the fourth health determination process for the lubrication oil circulation system will be described below.

[0126] First, the detection data acquisition unit 231 acquires the second pressure data DP2 as the detection data DA. Next, the calculation processing unit 233 uses the second pressure data DP2 as the detection data DA to perform calculations to calculate the degree of fluttering D shown in equation (1) (calculation step S61). This degree of fluttering D is an example of the calculated data DB described above.

[0127] Next, the health determination unit 232 compares the degree of fluttering D, which is the calculated data DB, with a threshold γ1, which is a first threshold representing the degree of fluttering that serves as a criterion for determining whether the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is in a normal state (normal determination step S62). This threshold γ1 is included in the determination criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0128] If the degree of fluctuation D of the processed data DB is less than the threshold γ1 (normal determination step S62; YES), it indicates that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is sufficient. Therefore, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubricating oil circulation system 116 is in a normal state. In this case, the process returns to calculation step S61.

[0129] On the other hand, if the degree of fluctuation D of the processed data DB is greater than or equal to threshold γ1 (normal determination step S62; NO), it cannot be said that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is sufficient. Therefore, in order to determine the degree of abnormality of the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a, the health determination unit 232 compares the degree of fluctuation D of the processed data DB with a threshold γ2 which is greater than threshold γ1 (abnormality determination step S63).

[0130] This threshold γ2 is an example of a second threshold representing the degree of fluttering, which is a criterion for determining whether the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the oil reservoir 103a is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. Like threshold γ1, threshold γ2 is also included in the judgment criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0131] If the degree of instability D of the processed data DB is greater than or equal to the threshold γ2 (abnormality determination step S63; NO), it can be said that the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a is so insufficient that immediate refueling is necessary.

[0132] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in an abnormal state and outputs abnormal notification information that identifies the lubrication oil circulation system 116 and indicates that the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in an abnormal state (abnormal notification step S64). Then, it returns to the calculation step S61.

[0133] On the other hand, if the degree of instability D of the processed data DB is less than the threshold γ2 (abnormality determination step S63; YES), it cannot be said that lubrication is immediately necessary, but since the amount of lubricating oil remaining in the oil reservoir 103a has decreased, it is advisable to inspect the lubricating oil circulation system 116.

[0134] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in a state requiring inspection, and outputs information identifying the lubrication oil circulation system 116 and inspection notification information indicating that the remaining amount of lubricating oil in the lubrication oil circulation system 116 is in a state requiring inspection (inspection notification step S65). Then, it returns to the calculation step S61.

[0135] Next, we will describe the case where the arithmetic processing unit 233 is a pressure loss calculation unit that performs a calculation process on the detection data DA to determine the pressure loss, which is the pressure difference between one detection point and another detection point. In this case, the calculated data DB represents the pressure loss. In addition, judgment criterion data 241 representing the pressure loss is prepared in advance.

[0136] As shown in Figure 2, the detection data DA includes first pressure data DP1 representing the compressed air pressure value P1 at the first detection point upstream of the oil mist filter 104 in the fluid flow pipeline 112, and third pressure data DP3 representing the compressed air pressure value P3 at the third detection point downstream of the dehumidifier 107 in the fluid flow pipeline 112.

[0137] Therefore, using the difference ΔP13 = P1 - P3 between pressure values ​​P1 and P3, a second oil mist filter integrity determination process can be performed to determine the integrity of the component through which compressed air passes, particularly the oil mist filter 104, which is located between the first detection point and the third detection point. In other words, since the difference ΔP13 depends on the pressure loss in the oil mist filter 104, the larger the pressure loss ΔP13, the higher the degree of abnormality in the oil mist filter 104.

[0138] Furthermore, the detection data DA includes first pressure data DP1 representing the pressure value P1 of compressed air at the first detection point downstream of the oil separator 103 in the fluid flow pipeline 112, and second pressure data DP2 representing the pressure value P2 of lubricating oil at the second detection point downstream of the oil filter 114 in the fluid flow pipeline 113.

[0139] Therefore, using the difference ΔP12 = P1 - P2 between pressure value P1 and pressure value P2, an oil filter second health determination process can be performed to determine the health of the component through which lubricating oil passes, particularly the oil filter 114, which is located between the first detection point and the second detection point. In other words, since the difference ΔP12 depends on the pressure loss in the oil filter 114, the larger the pressure loss ΔP12, the higher the degree of abnormality of the oil filter 114.

[0140] Referring to Figure 13, the second integrity determination process for the oil mist filter will be described below.

[0141] First, the detection data acquisition unit 231 acquires the first pressure data DP1 and the third pressure data DP3 as detection data DA.

[0142] Next, the arithmetic processing unit 233 performs an arithmetic operation to calculate the pressure loss ΔP13 using the pressure value P1 represented by the first pressure data DP1 and the pressure value P3 represented by the third pressure data DP3 (arithmetic step S71). The pressure loss ΔP13 is an example of the processed data DB described above.

[0143] Next, the health determination unit 232 compares the pressure loss ΔP13, which is a calculated data DB, with a threshold α7, which is a first threshold representing the pressure loss that serves as the criterion for determining whether the oil mist filter 104 is in a normal state (normal determination step S72). This threshold α7 is included in the determination criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0144] If the pressure loss ΔP13, as calculated data DB, is less than the threshold α7 (normal determination step S72; YES), it indicates that the compressed air is passing through the oil mist filter 104 without obstruction. In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the oil mist filter 104 of the air compressor 100 is in a normal state. In this case, the process returns to calculation step S71.

[0145] On the other hand, if the pressure loss ΔP13 as the processed data DB is greater than or equal to α7 (normal determination step S72; NO), it cannot be said that the compressed air is passing through the oil mist filter 104 without obstruction. Therefore, in order to determine the degree of abnormality in the oil mist filter 104, the health determination unit 232 compares the pressure loss ΔP13 as the processed data DB with a threshold α8 which is greater than the threshold α7 (abnormality determination step S73).

[0146] This threshold α8 is an example of a second threshold representing pressure loss, which is used as a criterion for determining whether the oil mist filter 104 of the air compressor 100 is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. Like threshold α7, threshold α8 is included in the judgment criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0147] If the pressure loss ΔP13, as calculated data DB, is greater than or equal to the threshold α8 (abnormality determination step S73; NO), it indicates that the oil mist filter 104 is clogged to the point where it needs to be replaced immediately.

[0148] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in an abnormal state and outputs information identifying the oil mist filter 104 and abnormal notification information indicating that the oil mist filter 104 is in an abnormal state (abnormal notification step S74). Then, it returns to the calculation step S71.

[0149] On the other hand, if the pressure loss ΔP13 as processed data DB is less than the threshold α8 (abnormality determination step S73; YES), it cannot be said that the oil mist filter 104 is clogged to the extent that immediate action is needed, but it is advisable to inspect the oil mist filter 104.

[0150] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in a state requiring inspection and outputs information identifying the oil mist filter 104 and inspection notification information indicating that the oil mist filter 104 is in a state requiring inspection (inspection notification step S75). Then, it returns to the calculation step S71.

[0151] For example, the display device installed in the driver's cab of the railway vehicle is used as the output destination for the inspection notification information. Upon receiving the inspection notification information, the user can take measures such as inspecting the oil mist filter 104 or replacing it with a new one. If the oil mist filter 104 is not clogged, the user can take measures to replace the oil mist filter 104 with a new one at an appropriate time later.

[0152] Referring to Figure 14, the second oil filter health determination process will now be explained.

[0153] First, the detection data acquisition unit 231 acquires the first pressure data DP1 and the second pressure data DP2 as detection data DA.

[0154] Next, the arithmetic processing unit 233 performs an arithmetic operation to calculate the pressure loss ΔP12 using the pressure value P1 represented by the first pressure data DP1 and the pressure value P2 represented by the second pressure data DP2 (arithmetic step S81). The pressure loss ΔP12 is an example of the processed data DB described above.

[0155] Next, the health determination unit 232 compares the pressure loss ΔP12, which is the processed data DB, with a threshold α9, which is the first threshold representing the pressure loss that serves as the criterion for determining whether the oil filter 114 is in a normal state (normal determination step S82). This threshold α9 is included in the determination criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0156] If the pressure loss ΔP12, as calculated data DB, is less than the threshold α9 (normal determination step S82; YES), it indicates that the lubricating oil is passing through the oil filter 114 without obstruction. In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the oil filter 114 of the air compressor 100 is in a normal state. In this case, the process returns to calculation step S81.

[0157] On the other hand, if the pressure loss ΔP12 as processed data DB is greater than or equal to α9 (normal determination step S82; NO), it cannot be said that the lubricating oil is passing through the oil filter 114 without obstruction. Therefore, in order to determine the degree of abnormality in the oil filter 114, the health determination unit 232 compares the pressure loss ΔP12 as processed data DB with a threshold α10 that is greater than the threshold α9 (abnormality determination step S83).

[0158] This threshold α10 is an example of a second threshold representing pressure loss, which is used as a criterion for determining whether the oil filter 114 of the air compressor 100 is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. Like threshold α9, threshold α10 is included in the judgment criterion data 241 and is stored in the data storage unit 240 in advance.

[0159] If the pressure loss ΔP12, as calculated data DB, is greater than or equal to the threshold α10 (abnormality determination step S83; NO), it indicates that the oil filter 114 is clogged to the point where it needs to be replaced immediately.

[0160] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in an abnormal state and outputs abnormal notification information that identifies the oil filter 114 and indicates that the oil filter 114 is in an abnormal state (abnormal notification step S84). Then, it returns to the calculation step S81. The user who receives the abnormal notification information can take measures to replace the oil filter 114 with a new one.

[0161] On the other hand, if the pressure loss ΔP12 as processed data DB meets the threshold α10 (abnormality determination step S83; YES), it cannot be said that the oil filter 114 is clogged to the point where immediate action is needed, but it is advisable to inspect the oil filter 114.

[0162] In this case, the health determination unit 232 determines that the air compressor 100 is in a state requiring inspection and outputs information identifying the oil filter 114 and inspection notification information indicating that the oil filter 114 is in a state requiring inspection (inspection notification step S85). Then, it returns to the calculation step S81.

[0163] For example, the display device installed in the driver's cab of a railway vehicle is used as the output destination for the inspection notification information. Upon receiving the inspection notification information, the user can take measures such as inspecting the oil filter 114 or replacing it with a new one. If the oil filter 114 is not clogged, the user can take measures to replace the oil filter 114 with a new one at an appropriate time later.

[0164] Embodiments 1 and 2 have been described above. The following modifications are also possible.

[0165] In the above embodiment 1, an example was given of a configuration for determining the health of the oil mist filter 104, oil filter 114, and lubrication oil circulation system 116, which are components of the air compressor 100. Other components of the air compressor 100, specifically the air filter 101, oil cooler 115, aftercooler 105, drain filter 106, and dehumidifier 107, may also be determined to be healthy. With respect to the direction of fluid flow, by placing a physical quantity sensor that detects physical quantities such as pressure and temperature at at least one of the detection points before and after the component, the health of the component can be determined using detection data DA representing the detection results of the physical quantity sensor.

[0166] In the above embodiment 2, examples of calculations performed by the calculation processing unit 233 include calculating the deviation from a reference value, calculating the time difference of the detected value of one physical quantity sensor, and calculating the difference between the detected value of one physical quantity sensor and the detected value of another physical quantity sensor. In addition, the calculation processing unit 233 may also perform processes such as calculating the time average of the detected value of one physical quantity sensor, calculating the sum of the detected values ​​of one physical quantity sensor over a certain time interval, and calculating the average value between the detected values ​​of multiple physical quantity sensors. Health determination can be performed using the calculated data DB obtained by these processes and judgment criterion data including a first threshold and a second threshold having the same dimensions as the calculated data DB.

[0167] The various aspects of this disclosure are described below.

[0168] (Note 1) A detection data acquisition unit acquires detection data representing the detected value of a physical quantity that depends on the soundness of the air compressor, which is detected at a predetermined detection point of the air compressor that generates compressed air. A data storage unit that stores judgment criterion data relating to the physical quantity, which represents the criteria for determining whether the air compressor is in a normal state or not, and the criteria for determining whether the air compressor is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. The health determination unit uses the detection data acquired by the detection data acquisition unit or the processed data obtained by performing calculations on the detection data and the determination criterion data stored in the data storage unit to determine whether the air compressor is in the normal state, the state requiring inspection, or the state of abnormality, and if it is determined that the air compressor is in the state requiring inspection, it outputs an inspection notification information indicating that the component of the air compressor is in the state requiring inspection, and if it is determined that the air compressor is in the state of abnormality, it outputs an abnormality notification information indicating that the component of the air compressor is in the state of abnormality, and A health determination device equipped with [a specific feature]. (Note 2) The air compressor has a fluid flow channel through which fluid flows, The detection data represents the detected pressure of the fluid flowing through the fluid pipeline. Health assessment device as described in Appendix 1. (Note 3) The health determination device is A pressure difference calculation unit calculates the processed data representing the magnitude of the pressure fluctuation by performing a calculation process including the difference on the detection data acquired by the detection data acquisition unit. Furthermore, The health determination unit performs the health determination using the processed data calculated by the pressure difference calculation unit and the determination criteria data, which includes the determination criteria regarding the magnitude of the pressure fluctuation and is stored in the data storage unit. Health assessment device as described in Appendix 2. (Note 4) The detection data includes the detected value of the fluid pressure at each of a predetermined number of detection points in the fluid flow pipeline. The health determination device is A pressure loss calculation unit calculates the calculated data representing the pressure loss of the fluid by performing the calculation process on the detection data acquired by the detection data acquisition unit to determine the pressure difference between one detection point and another detection point. Furthermore, The health determination unit performs the health determination using the processed data calculated by the pressure loss calculation unit and the determination criteria data, which includes the determination criteria related to the pressure loss and is stored in the data storage unit. Health determination device as specified in Appendix 2 or 3. (Note 5) The air compressor has a fluid flow channel through which fluid flows, The detection data represents the detected temperature of the fluid flowing through the fluid pipeline. A health determination device as described in Appendix 1 to 4. (Note 6) The health determination device is A temperature deviation calculation unit calculates the calculated data representing the degree of deviation of the temperature from the reference value by performing a calculation process on the detection data acquired by the detection data acquisition unit to calculate the deviation from a predetermined reference value. Furthermore, The health determination unit performs the health determination using the processed data calculated by the temperature deviation calculation unit and the determination criteria data stored in the data storage unit, which includes the determination criteria relating to the degree of deviation of the temperature from the reference value. Health assessment device as described in Appendix 5. (Note 7) A health determination device as described in Appendix 1 to 6, The air compressor that generates the compressed air, A braking device that uses the compressed air generated by the air compressor to apply a braking force to a railway vehicle to reduce its speed, An air brake system equipped with this system. (Note 8) A normal determination step in which a computer determines whether or not the air compressor is in a normal state, using detection data representing detected values ​​of physical quantities dependent on the health of the air compressor, which are detected at predetermined locations in the air compressor that generate compressed air, or processed data obtained by performing calculations on the detection data, and a first threshold value for the physical quantity that represents the criteria for determining whether or not the air compressor is in a normal state. If the computer determines in the normal determination step that the air compressor is not in the normal state, it performs an abnormality determination step to determine whether the air compressor is in the state requiring inspection or the state of abnormality, using the detected data or the processed data and a second threshold value relating to the physical quantity that represents the criteria for determining whether the air compressor is in a state requiring inspection or a state of abnormality. If the computer determines in the abnormality determination step that the air compressor is in the state requiring inspection, it performs a state requiring inspection notification step that outputs the component of the air compressor that is in the state requiring inspection and state that the component is in the state requiring inspection. If the computer determines in the abnormality determination step that the air compressor is in the abnormal condition, it performs an abnormality notification step that outputs abnormality notification information indicating the component of the air compressor that is in the abnormal condition and that the component is in the abnormal condition. A method for determining soundness, including [the specified method]. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0169] 100 Air compressor, 101 Air filter, 102 Air compressor, 103 Oil separator, 103a Oil reservoir, 104 Oil mist filter, 105 Aftercooler, 106 Drain filter, 107 Dehumidifier, 108 Main air reservoir, 109-113 Fluid flow pipeline, 114 Oil filter, 115 Oil cooler, 116 Lubrication oil circulation system, 200 Health determination device, 211 First pressure sensor, 212 Second pressure sensor, 213 Third pressure sensor, 221 First temperature sensor, 222 Second temperature sensor, 223 Third temperature sensor, 230 Processor, 231 Detection data acquisition unit, 232 Health determination unit, 233 Calculation processing unit (temperature deviation calculation unit, pressure difference calculation unit, pressure loss calculation unit), 240 Data storage unit, 241 Judgment criterion data, 242 Health assessment program, 300 Brake device, 400 Air brake system, DA Detection data, DB Processed data, DP1 First pressure data, DP2 Second pressure data, DP3 Third pressure data, DT1 First temperature data, DT2 Second temperature data, DT3 Third temperature data.

Claims

1. A detection data acquisition unit acquires detection data representing the detected value of a physical quantity that depends on the soundness of the air compressor, which is detected at a predetermined detection point in the air compressor that generates compressed air. A data storage unit that stores judgment criterion data relating to the physical quantity, which represents the criteria for determining whether the air compressor is in a normal state or not, and the criteria for determining whether the air compressor is in a state requiring inspection or in a state of abnormality. The health determination unit uses the detection data acquired by the detection data acquisition unit or the processed data obtained by performing calculations on the detection data and the determination criterion data stored in the data storage unit to determine whether the air compressor is in the normal state, the state requiring inspection, or the state of abnormality, and if it is determined that the air compressor is in the state requiring inspection, it outputs an inspection notification information indicating that the component of the air compressor is in the state requiring inspection, and if it is determined that the air compressor is in the state of abnormality, it outputs an abnormality notification information indicating that the component of the air compressor is in the state of abnormality, and A health determination device equipped with [a specific feature].

2. The air compressor has a fluid flow channel through which fluid flows, The detection data represents the detected pressure of the fluid flowing through the fluid pipeline. The health determination device according to claim 1.

3. The health determination device is A pressure difference calculation unit calculates the processed data representing the magnitude of the pressure fluctuation by performing a calculation process including the difference on the detection data acquired by the detection data acquisition unit. Furthermore, The health determination unit performs the health determination using the processed data calculated by the pressure difference calculation unit and the determination criteria data, which includes the determination criteria regarding the magnitude of the pressure fluctuation and is stored in the data storage unit. The health determination device according to claim 2.

4. The detection data includes the detected value of the fluid pressure at each of a predetermined number of detection points in the fluid flow pipeline. The health determination device is A pressure loss calculation unit calculates the calculated data representing the pressure loss of the fluid by performing the calculation process on the detection data acquired by the detection data acquisition unit to determine the pressure difference between one detection point and another detection point. Furthermore, The health determination unit performs the health determination using the processed data calculated by the pressure loss calculation unit and the determination criteria data, which includes the determination criteria related to the pressure loss and is stored in the data storage unit. The health determination device according to claim 2.

5. The air compressor has a fluid flow channel through which fluid flows, The detection data represents the detected temperature of the fluid flowing through the fluid pipeline. The health determination device according to claim 1.

6. The health determination device is A temperature deviation calculation unit calculates the calculated data representing the degree of deviation of the temperature from the reference value by performing a calculation process on the detection data acquired by the detection data acquisition unit to calculate the deviation from a predetermined reference value. Furthermore, The health determination unit performs the health determination using the processed data calculated by the temperature deviation calculation unit and the determination criteria data stored in the data storage unit, which includes the determination criteria relating to the degree of deviation of the temperature from the reference value. The health determination device according to claim 5.

7. A health determination device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The air compressor that generates the compressed air, A braking device that uses the compressed air generated by the air compressor to apply a braking force to a railway vehicle to reduce the speed of the railway vehicle, An air brake system equipped with this system.

8. A normal determination step in which a computer determines whether or not the air compressor is in the normal state, using detection data representing detected values ​​of physical quantities dependent on the health of the air compressor, which are detected at predetermined locations in the air compressor that generate compressed air, or processed data obtained by performing calculations on the detection data, and a first threshold value for the physical quantity that represents the criteria for determining whether or not the air compressor is in the normal state. If the computer determines in the normal determination step that the air compressor is not in the normal state, it performs an abnormality determination step to determine whether the air compressor is in the state requiring inspection or the state of abnormality, using the detected data or the processed data and a second threshold value relating to the physical quantity that represents the criteria for determining whether the air compressor is in a state requiring inspection or a state of abnormality. If the computer determines in the abnormality determination step that the air compressor is in the state requiring inspection, it performs a state requiring inspection notification step that outputs the component of the air compressor that is in the state requiring inspection and state that the component is in the state requiring inspection. If the computer determines in the abnormality determination step that the air compressor is in the abnormal condition, it performs an abnormality notification step that outputs abnormality notification information indicating the component of the air compressor that is in the abnormal condition and that the component is in the abnormal condition. A method for determining soundness, including [the specified method].

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