Status monitoring device, status monitoring method, and program

Abstract

To minimize damage occurrence associated with heat generation in a device while improving flexibility in configuration for state monitoring.SOLUTION: A state monitoring device for monitoring the state of a device consisting of one or more parts is provided, the state monitoring device comprising measurement means for measuring gas generated from the one or more parts due to temperature changes, and diagnostic means for diagnosing the abnormal state of the device in accordance with the gas measured by the measurement means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a status monitoring device, a status monitoring method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] It has been known that devices generate heat during operation, which affects the operation of the device and its components. For example, when abnormal heat occurs in a vehicle, various damages may occur depending on the location of the heat generation and the parts that compose the vehicle. For this reason, the temperature rise of the device is monitored and control is performed according to the temperature change.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a temperature sensor for monitoring abnormalities in a rolling device, and Patent Document 2 discloses a wheel condition monitoring device that detects the temperature of a tire to determine the condition of the wheel. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2004-156957 A [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 5444266 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the above-mentioned prior art documents, in consideration of the accuracy of temperature detection, it is necessary to install a sensor for temperature detection in a position close to the monitoring target. Therefore, restrictions are imposed on the installation position of the sensor, resulting in low design freedom. In addition, there is a problem that the sensor itself is affected by heat generation and vibrations generated by the operation of the target by installing a sensor in the vicinity of the monitoring target. Furthermore, there is a problem that a sensor needs to be installed for each monitoring target, and the number of sensors increases as the number of monitoring targets increases.

[0006] In view of the above problems, an object of the present invention is to prevent damage to a device caused by heat generation while improving the degree of freedom in the configuration for status monitoring. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following configuration. That is, a status monitoring device for a device composed of one or more parts, a measuring means for measuring gas produced by the one or more components as the temperature changes; a diagnostic means for diagnosing an abnormal state of the device in response to the gas measured by the measuring means; of Yes.

[0008] Another aspect of the present invention has the following configuration: A method for monitoring the state of a device that is composed of one or more components, comprising: a measuring step of measuring gas generated from the one or more components with a gas sensor as a function of temperature change; a diagnostic step of diagnosing an abnormal state of the device according to the gas measured in the measurement step; of Yes.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention has the following configuration: On the computer, a measuring step of measuring gas generated from one or more components constituting the device in response to a temperature change using a gas sensor; a diagnostic step of diagnosing an abnormal state of the device according to the gas measured in the measurement step; Execute the command. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom in the configuration for status monitoring while suppressing the occurrence of damage to the device due to heat generation. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an apparatus configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a state monitoring device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 3] 11A and 11B are diagrams showing examples of locations of abnormal heat generation and damage when the monitored object is a vehicle. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an installation position of a gas sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] 1A to 1C are diagrams for explaining the configuration and operation of a gas sensor according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart of an abnormality diagnosis process according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 11 is a graph showing an example of a test result according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart of an abnormality diagnosis process according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart of an abnormality diagnosis process according to a third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, the embodiment for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment described below is one embodiment for explaining the present invention, and is not intended to be interpreted as limiting the present invention, and all configurations described in each embodiment are not necessarily essential configurations for solving the problems of the present invention. In addition, in each drawing, the same components are given the same reference numbers to indicate their correspondence.

[0013] <First embodiment> A first embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0014] [Device configuration] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a system according to this embodiment. The system according to this embodiment is configured to include a device 100 including a monitoring target, and a status monitoring device 200. In this embodiment, a vehicle (hereinafter, referred to as vehicle 100) will be taken as an example of the device 100 including a monitoring target. The status monitoring device 200 may be, for example, an information processing device such as a PC (Personal Computer), and the configuration is not particularly limited. When the monitoring target is a vehicle, the status monitoring device 200 may be configured to include an on-board ECU (Electronic Control Unit).

[0015] The state monitoring device 200 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a storage device 202, a sensor IF 203, an input device 204, an output device 205, and a communication device 206. Each component is communicatively connected via an internal bus 207. The CPU 10 is a component that controls the entire state monitoring device 200, and may realize various functions by, for example, reading and executing a program stored in the storage device 202. The storage device 202 is composed of a ROM (Read Only Memory) and an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), which are non-volatile storage areas, and a RAM (Random Access Memory), which is a volatile storage area. The sensor IF 203 is an interface for acquiring the results detected by the gas sensor 103. The sensor IF 203 may be configured to supply power from a power source (not shown) to the gas sensor 103. The input device 204 is a component that accepts input from the outside, and is composed of, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, and the like. The output device 205 is a component that outputs various information, and is, for example, a liquid crystal display. A touch panel display in which the input device 204 and the output device 205 are integrated may be used. The communication device 206 is a part for communicating with an external device (not shown) via a network (not shown). The communication here may be wired or wireless, and there are no particular limitations on the communication standard.

[0016] The vehicle 100 is composed of a plurality of parts, and three parts 101a to 101c are taken as examples of parts to be monitored. In addition, when the parts to be monitored are collectively described, they are described as parts 101, and when it is necessary to describe them individually, they are described with a subscript. These parts 101 may be any parts such as a bearing device, a tire, a brake, an engine, a transmission, a motor, a battery, etc., and are parts where gas 102 is generated with a temperature change. In addition, when the device 100 is other than a vehicle, the configuration and type of the part 101 to be monitored may be different depending on the type of the device. In addition, in FIG. 1, the device 100 and the state monitoring device 200 are shown as being separate, but this is not limited to this configuration, and the state monitoring device 200 may be provided inside the device 100.

[0017] The vehicle 100 is provided with a gas sensor 103, which is configured to be able to detect gas 102 generated from a portion 101 in response to a change in temperature. Although only one gas sensor 103 is shown in Fig. 1, multiple gas sensors 103 may be provided depending on the size and structure of the device 100, the region in which the gas 102 is generated, etc. The gas sensor 103 provides information on the detected gas 102 to the condition monitoring device 200 via a sensor IF 203.

[0018] The composition and amount of gas 102 generated from each part due to temperature change vary depending on the material, operating conditions, operating load, structure, etc. used in part 101. For example, as described above, parts 101 equipped in vehicle 100 include bearings, tires, brakes, engines, transmissions, motors, batteries, etc., which use lubricants, rubber, resins, etc. Therefore, gas containing carbonyl compounds may be generated due to temperature change or heat generation. Furthermore, when abnormal heat generation occurs in multiple parts, gases with different types of components may be generated in each part. Therefore, gas 102 may contain one or multiple types of substances.

[0019] [Function configuration] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the state monitoring device 200 according to this embodiment. The functions of the components shown in Fig. 2 may be realized by the CPU 201 shown in Fig. 1 reading out a program stored in the storage device 202, or may be realized by controlling each device which is hardware.

[0020] The state monitoring device 200 includes a signal acquisition unit 211, a signal analysis unit 212, an abnormality diagnosis unit 213, an information storage unit 214, a notification processing unit 215, and a communication processing unit 216. The signal acquisition unit 211 acquires a detection signal from the gas sensor 103 via the sensor IF 203. The signal acquisition unit 211 may also transmit various control signals to the gas sensor 103 to control its operation. The signal analysis unit 212 analyzes the gas 102 generated in the device 100 (here, a vehicle) using the detection signal acquired by the signal acquisition unit 211, and identifies the type (content), amount, source, etc. of the gas 102. The abnormality diagnosis unit 213 performs abnormality diagnosis, such as the presence or absence of abnormal heat generation and identification of an abnormal part, based on the analysis result of the signal analysis unit 212.

[0021] The information storage unit 214 stores and manages various information and diagnosis results obtained from outside in the storage device 202. The notification processing unit 215 performs control to notify the user of the diagnosis results and the like. The notification processing unit 215 may also perform control such as stopping the operation of the part 101 in which an abnormality has occurred by notifying a control unit (not shown) of the device 100 of the result of the abnormality diagnosis. The communication processing unit 216 controls transmission and reception of various information to an external device (not shown) via the communication device 206.

[0022] [Examples of locations where abnormal heat occurs and damage] 3 is a diagram showing examples of heat generating locations in a component (part 101) when the device 100 is a vehicle, and damage caused by abnormal heat generation. Examples of vehicle components include rolling bearings, tires, brakes, an engine, gears, a motor, and a battery. Note that the components shown in FIG. 3 are merely examples, and are not intended to be limiting. Furthermore, the units (granularity) of the components are not intended to be limiting.

[0023] Examples of the heat generating parts of a rolling bearing include the lubricant supplied to the seals and the sliding parts. Furthermore, when heat is generated in a rolling bearing, abnormal friction or seizure may occur inside the rolling bearing. Examples of the heat generating parts of a tire include the surface of the tire where the tire comes into contact with the ground. Furthermore, when heat is generated in a tire, bursting or rupture may occur. Examples of the heat generating parts of a brake include the pads and linings. Furthermore, when heat is generated in the brakes, vapor lock and fade phenomena may occur.

[0024] An example of a heat generating part of an engine is engine oil held inside. When heat is generated in an engine, internal seizure may occur. An example of a heat generating part of a gear is lubricant supplied to a sliding part. When heat is generated in a gear, abnormal wear or seizure may occur. An example of a heat generating part of a motor is seal, lubricant, resin on the coil surface, etc. When heat is generated in a motor, internal seizure may occur. An example of a heat generating part of a battery is electrolyte, separator, and electrodes. When heat is generated in a battery, expansion of the battery or generation of white smoke may occur.

[0025] In the heat generating locations as described above, gas 102 is generated in association with heat generation. In this embodiment, the gas sensor 103 detects the type and amount (concentration) of the generated gas 102 to detect an abnormality.

[0026] [Installation example] 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of installation of the gas sensor 103 according to this embodiment. Here, an example will be described taking a site around a tire equipped on a vehicle 100 as an example of a site 101a, which is one of the monitoring targets. More specifically, an example is shown in which the gas sensor 103 is installed on a hub bearing. The site 101a is configured including a rolling bearing, and includes an inner ring 410 and an outer ring 411. Here, the outer ring 411 is the fixed side, and a tire (not shown) attached to the inner ring 410 side rotates as the vehicle 100 travels.

[0027] 4(a) shows an example in which the gas sensor 103 is provided on the tire side of the outer wheel 411. In this case, taking into consideration the relationship with the installation position of the tire, the gas sensor 103 and the condition monitoring device 200 may be connected to be able to communicate wirelessly. The condition monitoring device 200 may also be configured to include a power source (not shown) for supplying power to the gas sensor 103 and to supply power wirelessly to the gas sensor 103. Such a wireless configuration is suitable for example when monitoring parts located outside the vehicle (rolling bearings, tires, brakes, etc.).

[0028] FIG. 4(b) shows an example in which the gas sensor 103 is provided on the vehicle body side of the outer wheel 411. In this case, the state monitoring device 200 is provided on the vehicle 100. Based on the degree of freedom of wiring, the gas sensor 103 and the state monitoring device 200 may be connected to each other via a wire so that they can communicate with each other. The state monitoring device 200 may also be configured to include a power source (not shown) for supplying power to the gas sensor 103 and to supply power to the gas sensor 103 wirelessly. Such a wired configuration is suitable for the case in which the monitoring target is, for example, a part located inside the vehicle (rolling bearing, engine, gear, motor, battery, etc.).

[0029] [Example] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the gas sensor 103 according to this embodiment. The gas sensor 103 according to this embodiment measures gas while switching between a cleaning operation and a gas measurement operation. FIG. 5(a) is a diagram showing the state of the gas sensor 103 during a cleaning operation. FIG. 5(b) shows the state of the gas sensor 103 during a gas measurement operation. Note that the state of the gas sensor 103 may be switched based on an instruction from the state monitoring device 200, or may be switched based on a predetermined condition on the gas sensor 103 side. In addition, a bearing device will be taken as an example of the portion 101b to be measured.

[0030] The gas sensor 103 includes a tube 306 that is configured to be able to switch between a path for sucking in outside air and a path for sucking in gas present around a portion to be measured (here, the bearing device 101b). Filters 301 and 303 are installed at the inlet on the side of the object to be measured and the inlet for outside air, respectively. The filters 301 and 303 may have the same configuration or different configurations. For example, the filter 301 may have a configuration according to the type of gas to be measured and the type and position of the object to be measured. The valve 302 is used to switch the path when sucking in the gas. In addition, a pump 305 is disposed on the exhaust port side of the gas sensor 103 and is used to suck in the gas passing through the tube 306. The gas sucked in by the pump 305 is exhausted from the exhaust port.

[0031] A sensor unit 304 is provided on the path of the tube 306 between the valve 302 and the pump 305. The sensor unit 304 reacts to a gas component and outputs a signal corresponding to the gas component. In this embodiment, a semiconductor gas sensor is used as the sensor unit 304, but the present invention is not limited to this. Depending on the gas to be measured, a gas sensor such as a catalytic combustion type, an electrochemical type, a thermal conductivity type, a photoionization type, or an NDIR (Non-Dispersive Infrared) type may be used. Also, a plurality of sensor units 304 may be provided on the path of the tube 306 between the valve 302 and the pump 305 depending on the type of gas to be detected.

[0032] [Processing flow] 6 is a flowchart of the state monitoring process according to this embodiment. This process is executed by the state monitoring device 200, and may be realized, for example, by the CPU 201 included in the state monitoring device 200 reading out a program for implementing this process from the storage device 202 and executing it. This process may be started based on a user's instruction, or may be started at a predetermined timing.

[0033] In S601, the state monitoring device 200 performs path control for cleaning the gas sensor 103. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 5(a), the state monitoring device 200 controls the valve 302 to switch to a path that draws in outside air.

[0034] In S602, the state monitor 200 starts measuring the cleaning time by, for example, starting time measurement using a timer (not shown).

[0035] In S603, the state monitoring device 200 operates the pump 305 to draw in outside air, whereby the outside air gradually fills the inside of the tube 306, and the inside of the tube 306 is cleaned by the outside air.

[0036] In S604, the status monitoring device 200 refers to the measured time and determines whether the cleaning time has exceeded a predetermined time. The predetermined time is predefined and stored in the storage device 202. If the predetermined time has exceeded (YES in S604), the processing of the status monitoring device 200 proceeds to S605. On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not exceeded (NO in S604), the processing returns to S603, and the status monitoring device 200 repeats the processing.

[0037] In S605, the state monitoring device 200 causes the sensor unit 304 to detect gas in the tube 306 and acquires the detection result. Then, the state monitoring device 200 stores the detection result in the storage device 202 as the detection result in the state after cleaning.

[0038] In S606, the state monitoring device 200 performs path control for gas measurement in the gas sensor 103. Specifically, as shown in Fig. 5(b), the state monitoring device 200 controls the valve 302 to switch to a path that sucks in gas around the part 101b (here, the bearing device) to be monitored.

[0039] In S607, the state monitoring device 200 starts measuring the measurement time by, for example, starting time measurement using a timer (not shown).

[0040] In S608, the state monitoring device 200 operates the pump 305 to suck in the gas around the part 101b to be monitored. As a result, the gas around the part 102 to be monitored is gradually filled into the tube 306.

[0041] In S609, the state monitoring device 200 refers to the measured time and determines whether the measured time has passed a predetermined time. The predetermined time here is predefined and stored in the storage device 202. The predetermined time used in this step and the predetermined time in S604 may be the same or different. If the predetermined time has passed (YES in S609), the processing of the state monitoring device 200 proceeds to S610. On the other hand, if the predetermined time has not passed (NO in S609), the processing returns to S608, and the state monitoring device 200 repeats the processing.

[0042] In S610, the state monitoring device 200 causes the sensor unit 304 to detect the gas in the tube 306 and acquires the detection result. Then, the state monitoring device 200 stores the detection result in the storage device 202 as a detection result for the gas around the part 101b to be monitored.

[0043] In S611, the status monitoring device 200 determines whether the measurement operation has been completed. For example, in the case where the cleaning operation of S601 to S605 and the measurement operation of S606 to S610 are repeated a number of times and then an abnormality diagnosis is made from the measurement results, the status monitoring device 200 determines whether the number of measurements has been completed. If it is determined that the measurement operation has been completed (YES in S611), the processing of the status monitoring device 200 proceeds to S612. On the other hand, if it is determined that the measurement operation has not been completed (NO in S611), the processing returns to S601, and the status monitoring device 200 repeats the processing.

[0044] In S612, the status monitoring device 200 performs an abnormality diagnosis based on the measurement result. For example, the degree of generation of a predetermined gas may be derived based on the difference between the measurement result after cleaning measured in S602 and the measurement result of the monitored object measured in S610. Then, an abnormality diagnosis may be performed by estimating an abnormal state of the monitored object from the degree of generation. For example, an abnormal state may be diagnosed when the concentration of the detected gas exceeds a threshold. Also, a plurality of thresholds corresponding to the urgency may be set, and the urgency (degree) of the abnormality may be estimated by comparing with each threshold.

[0045] In S613, the status monitoring device 200 notifies the result of the abnormality diagnosis in S612. The part where the abnormal heat is occurring and its condition may be notified. The method of notification here is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a visual notification on a screen or an audible notification by voice. Then, this processing flow ends.

[0046] In the example of the flowchart in Fig. 6, the cleaning operation and the gas measurement operation are alternately performed, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the cleaning operation may be performed once, and then the measurement operation may be repeated multiple times at regular intervals. An abnormality diagnosis may be performed based on the change in gas concentration derived by this configuration.

[0047] In the abnormality diagnosis in S612, the status monitoring device 200 may be configured to identify the type of gas being generated and the location where the gas may be generated based on the measurement results. At this time, the status monitoring device 200 may be configured to derive the location of generation and the level of abnormality using a table (not shown) that associates the monitored location with the generated gas. Furthermore, the status monitoring device 200 may be configured to control the device 100 so that damage caused by the abnormality does not occur, using a table (not shown) that indicates control contents associated with the level of abnormality.

[0048] [Test example] The test results using the above-mentioned condition monitoring method will be explained with reference to Fig. 7. The test conditions are as follows. The test was performed using a bearing device including a rolling bearing as the monitoring target.

[0049] (Bearing device specifications) Inner diameter: 25mm Outer diameter: 62[mm] Width: 17mm Rotation configuration: Inner ring rotation Lubrication method: Grease lubrication

[0050] (Grease specifications) Thickener: Urea Consistency number: No.2 Base oil: Polyalphaolefin Kinematic viscosity: 74[mm 2 / s, 40℃]

[0051] (Operating conditions) Rotation speed: 10000 [min -1 ] Bearing outer ring temperature: 160[℃] Radial load: 98N Axial load: 1470 [N]

[0052] (Gas sensor configuration) Sensor type: Semiconductor Tube outer diameter: 6 mm Tube inner diameter: 4mm Filter type: Ceramic filter

[0053] In this test, a sampling hole with a diameter of 6.5 mm is provided in the axial direction of the housing of the bearing device, and a tube 306 of the gas sensor 103 is inserted to collect gas inside the bearing device (around the rolling bearing). A ceramic filter is used as the filter 301 to remove oil mist generated by the rolling bearing. A semiconductor sensor is used as the sensor unit 304. The semiconductor sensor detects the concentration of the reducing gas according to the value of the current generated when a reducing gas (the gas to be detected) removes oxygen from the metal oxide surface of the sensor unit, thereby causing a decrease in the resistance of the sensor unit.

[0054] In this test, the state of the sensor unit 304 is returned to its initial state by a cleaning operation. In order to improve the detection accuracy, it is necessary to perform measurements after replacing all the air in the path (tube 306) with outside air. Therefore, it is desirable to set the cleaning time so as to satisfy the following conditions. (Cleaning time) ≧ (path volume) / (pump flow rate per unit time)

[0055] The pump flow rate and the passage volume can be determined from the configuration of the pump 305 and the tube 306. In addition, since an abnormality caused by deterioration of the lubricant used in the bearing device occurs relatively soon after the deterioration occurs, it is desirable to set the measurement interval based on this assumption. For example, it is conceivable to set the measurement interval to within 24 hours.

[0056] During measurement, it is necessary to fill the path (tube 306) with as much air as possible from around the bearing device. At this time, it is desirable to set the measurement time so as to satisfy the following conditions, taking into consideration the volume (hereinafter, gas retention volume) of the area in which the gas inside the bearing device is retained (for example, inside the housing of the bearing device). (Measurement time) ≥ (path volume or gas retention volume, whichever is smaller) / (pump flow rate)

[0057] The pump flow rate, the path volume, and the gas retention volume can be determined from the configuration of the pump 305, the tube 306, and the parts to be measured. Note that, during measurement, the upper limit of the measurement time and the suction operation of the pump 305 may be controlled so as not to discharge more gas than necessary inside the bearing device. In this test, the predetermined time used in the process of S604 in Fig. 6 (i.e., the cleaning time) was 19 minutes, and the predetermined time used in the process of S609 (i.e., the measurement time) was 1 minute.

[0058] In addition, in this test, the influence of the surrounding environment of the monitored object is eliminated by using the difference value obtained by subtracting the data at the time of cleaning from the data at the time of measurement. Furthermore, since it is expected that the measurement results of the gas sensor 103 will be affected by periodic environmental changes within a day, such as temperature and humidity, the difference value of the data is derived by matching the measurement time. In addition, if the difference value is less than 0, it is treated as 0.

[0059] Fig. 7 shows the test results. In Fig. 7, the horizontal axis indicates the test time [hr], the right scale of the vertical axis indicates the outer ring temperature [°C], and the left scale of the vertical axis indicates the output value [V] of the gas sensor. In this test, as a comparative example, the temperature (outer ring temperature) of the outer ring (fixed side) of the components that make up the rolling bearing was also measured in addition to the measurement by gas sensor 103.

[0060] As shown by the dashed line in FIG. 7, the output of the gas sensor 103 increases after about 290 hours have passed since the start of the measurement. After that, when about 320 hours have passed since the start of the measurement, an abnormality was determined, and the operation of the rolling bearing was stopped. When the actual state of the rolling bearing after the stop was checked, the lubricant inside the rolling bearing had deteriorated, making it difficult to rotate. If the operation of the rolling bearing is continued in this state, damage such as seizure may occur. On the other hand, referring to the detection result of the temperature change of the outer ring of the rolling bearing (solid line in FIG. 7), the temperature change immediately before the operation of the rolling bearing was stopped was small, only a few degrees Celsius. In other words, the deterioration of the lubricant inside the rolling bearing cannot be captured by only monitoring the temperature of the part where the temperature sensor can be installed. From this, it was demonstrated that the monitoring by the method according to the present embodiment can capture the signs of seizure more appropriately than the temperature monitoring of the part.

[0061] As described above, this embodiment allows the state of the monitored object to be grasped more appropriately than by monitoring the temperature, and can prevent damage to the monitored object. In addition, since there are fewer restrictions on the installation position of the gas sensor than for the temperature sensor, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom in the configuration for status monitoring.

[0062] <Second embodiment> A second embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that, for the parts that overlap with the first embodiment, the differences will be focused on, and the explanation of the overlapping parts will be omitted. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the device 100 to be monitored is a vehicle, and status monitoring is performed based on the operating status of the vehicle.

[0063] In this embodiment, the state monitoring device 200 monitors the running state of the vehicle 100. The running state may include information such as running speed, braking operation, and access operation, and various information may be obtainable from the vehicle 100 main body. The running speed may be obtained via an existing speed sensor (not shown) provided in the vehicle 100, or may be calculated from the measurement results by measuring the rotation speed of tires, etc. using a sensor (not shown) provided in the state monitoring device 200 separately. Note that, although information on the running state is given as an example of the operation information of the device 100 here, this is not limiting. For example, the operation information may include other information depending on the functions provided by the device 100.

[0064] [Processing flow] 8 is a flowchart of the state monitoring process according to this embodiment. This process is executed by the state monitoring device 200, and may be realized, for example, by the CPU 201 included in the state monitoring device 200 reading out a program for implementing this process from the storage device 202 and executing it. This process may be started based on a user's instruction, or may be started at a predetermined timing.

[0065] In S801, the state monitoring device 200 acquires the traveling speed of the vehicle 100. As described above, the traveling speed of the vehicle 100 may be acquired from the vehicle 100 body side, or may be derived from the detection result of another sensor (not shown) provided in the state monitoring device 200. In addition, a change in the traveling speed may be identified from the operating state of the brakes.

[0066] In S802, the state monitoring device 200 determines whether the traveling speed acquired in S801 falls below a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold is assumed to be predefined and stored in the storage device 202. The predetermined threshold may be defined based on the relationship between the time required for the vehicle 100 to stop and the time required for the preparatory operation. If the traveling speed falls below the predetermined threshold (YES in S802), the processing of the state monitoring device 200 proceeds to S803. On the other hand, if the traveling speed is not below the predetermined threshold (NO in S802), the processing of the state monitoring device 200 returns to S801, and the processing is repeated.

[0067] In S803, the state monitoring device 200 performs a preparatory operation for the measurement operation. The preparatory operation here may be the cleaning operation described in the first embodiment, or may include other operations.

[0068] In S804, the state monitoring device 200 determines whether the vehicle 100 has stopped. The stopped state here may be determined, for example, by acquiring the traveling speed, or may be determined based on the brake state, etc. If the vehicle 100 has stopped (YES in S804), the processing of the state monitoring device 200 proceeds to S807. On the other hand, if the vehicle 100 has not stopped (NO in S804), the processing of the state monitoring device 200 proceeds to S805.

[0069] In S805, the state monitoring device 200 determines whether the traveling speed has increased. Here, the state monitoring device 200 may obtain the traveling speed again and make the determination, or may make the determination based on the state of the accelerator, etc.

[0070] In S806, the state monitoring device 200 stops the preparation operation started in S803. After that, the process of the state monitoring device 200 returns to S801 and repeats the process.

[0071] In S807, the state monitoring device 200 performs suction of gas around the monitoring target. For example, the suction operation is performed by performing the path control and pump control described in the first embodiment.

[0072] In S808, the status monitoring device 200 measures the aspirated gas using the sensor unit 304. At this time, the measurement may be performed after a certain amount of aspirated gas or time has been aspirated in S807. Then, the status monitoring device 200 stores the measurement result in the storage device 202 as a detection result for the gas around the monitoring target.

[0073] In S809, the state monitoring device 200 determines whether the measurement operation has been completed. For example, when performing an abnormality diagnosis based on the results of multiple measurements, it may determine whether a predetermined number of measurements have been performed. If it is determined that the measurement operation has been completed (YES in S809), the state monitoring device 200 proceeds to S810. On the other hand, if it is determined that the measurement operation has not been completed (NO in S809), the state monitoring device 200 returns to S801 and repeats the process.

[0074] In S810, the state monitoring device 200 performs an abnormality diagnosis based on the measurement result. The method of abnormality diagnosis here may be the same as that in the first embodiment, or may be another method.

[0075] In S811, the state monitoring device 200 notifies the result of the abnormality diagnosis in S810. The method of notification here is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a visual notification on a screen or an audible notification by voice. For example, the driver may be notified of the generation of gas due to abnormal heat generation, and may be prompted to stop driving or slow down. Then, this processing flow ends.

[0076] As described above, in this embodiment, the timing of gas measurement is controlled depending on whether the vehicle is in a stopped state or not. The stopped state may be a temporary stop or a parked state.

[0077] As described above, according to this embodiment, monitoring and measurement by the gas sensor are performed according to the running state of the vehicle 100 including the monitoring target, and abnormalities can be diagnosed. In addition, since gas measurement is performed when the vehicle is stopped, not while the vehicle is running, gas detection is possible without being affected by running. The processing according to this embodiment is more suitable for a configuration in which a part outside the vehicle is the monitoring target, as shown in FIG. 4(a) in the first embodiment.

[0078] <Third embodiment> A third embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that, for the overlapping parts with the first embodiment, the differences will be focused on, and the explanation of the overlapping parts will be omitted. In this embodiment, as in the second embodiment, an example will be described in which the device 100 to be monitored is a vehicle, and status monitoring is performed based on the operating status of the vehicle.

[0079] In this embodiment, similarly to the second embodiment, the state monitoring device 200 monitors the running state of the vehicle 100. The running state may include information such as running speed, braking operation, and access operation, and various information may be acquired from the vehicle 100 main body. The running speed may be acquired via a speed sensor (not shown) provided in the vehicle 100, or may be calculated from the measurement results by measuring the rotation speed of tires or the like using a separately provided sensor (not shown). Note that, although information on the running state is given here as an example of the operation information of the device 100, this is not limiting. For example, the operation information may include other information depending on the functions provided by the device 100.

[0080] [Processing flow] 9 is a flowchart of the state monitoring process according to this embodiment. This process is executed by the state monitoring device 200, and may be realized, for example, by the CPU 201 included in the state monitoring device 200 reading out a program for implementing this process from the storage device 202 and executing it. This process may be started based on a user's instruction, or may be started at a predetermined timing.

[0081] In S901, the state monitoring device 200 acquires the traveling speed of the vehicle 100. As described above, the traveling speed of the vehicle 100 may be acquired from the vehicle 100 body side, or may be derived from the detection result of another sensor (not shown) provided in the state monitoring device 200. In addition, a change in the traveling state may be identified from the operating state of the brakes.

[0082] In S902, the state monitoring device 200 determines whether or not the vehicle 100 has stopped based on the traveling speed acquired in S801. If the vehicle 100 has stopped (YES in S902), the processing of the state monitoring device 200 proceeds to S903. On the other hand, if the vehicle 100 has not stopped (NO in S902), the processing of the state monitoring device 200 proceeds to S906.

[0083] In S903, the state monitoring device 200 sucks in gas around the monitoring target. That is, gas around the monitoring target is sucked in when the vehicle 100 is stopped. For example, the state monitoring device 200 performs the suction operation by performing the pump control described in the first embodiment.

[0084] In S904, the state monitoring device 200 measures the aspirated gas by the sensor unit 304. At this time, the measurement may be performed after a certain amount of aspirated gas or time has been aspirated in S903.

[0085] In S905, the state monitoring device 200 stores the measurement result of S904 as a reference value in the storage device 202. Thereafter, the processing of the state monitoring device 200 proceeds to S909.

[0086] In S906, the state monitoring device 200 sucks in gas around the monitoring target. That is, gas around the monitoring target is sucked in while the vehicle 100 is traveling. For example, the state monitoring device 200 performs the suction operation by performing the pump control described in the first embodiment.

[0087] In S907, the state monitoring device 200 measures the aspirated gas by the sensor unit 304. At this time, the measurement may be performed after a certain amount of aspirated gas or time has been aspirated in S906.

[0088] In S908, the state monitoring device 200 stores the measurement result of S907 as a measured value in the storage device 202. Thereafter, the processing of the state monitoring device 200 proceeds to S909.

[0089] In S909, the state monitoring device 200 determines whether or not it has acquired and stored the measurement results of both the reference value and the measurement value. That is, it determines whether or not both the measurement processes of S903 to S905 and the measurement processes of S906 to S908 have been performed. If both measurements have been performed (YES in S909), the state monitoring device 200 proceeds to S910. On the other hand, if at least one of the measurements has not been performed (NO in S909), the state monitoring device 200 returns to S901 and repeats the process.

[0090] In S910, the status monitoring device 200 determines whether the measurement operation has been completed. For example, when performing an abnormality diagnosis based on the results of multiple measurements, it may determine whether a predetermined number of measurements have been performed. If it is determined that the measurement operation has been completed (YES in S910), the processing of the status monitoring device 200 proceeds to S911. On the other hand, if it is determined that the measurement operation has not been completed (NO in S910), the processing returns to S901, and the status monitoring device 200 repeats the processing.

[0091] In S911, the state monitoring device 200 performs an abnormality diagnosis based on the reference value and the measured value. The abnormality diagnosis method here may be based on the difference between the reference value and the measured value, or may be based on the change in the reference value or the measured value.

[0092] In S912, the state monitoring device 200 notifies the abnormality diagnosis result of S911. The notification method here is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a visual notification on a screen or an audible notification by voice. For example, the driver may be notified of the generation of gas due to abnormal heat generation, and may be prompted to stop driving or slow down. Then, this processing flow ends.

[0093] As described above, in this embodiment, monitoring and measurement are performed by the gas sensor when the vehicle 100 including the monitoring target is traveling and when it is stopped, and abnormalities are diagnosed. With this configuration, it becomes possible to diagnose abnormalities based on gases generated in response to changes in the traveling state of the vehicle. The processing according to this embodiment is more suitable for a configuration in which parts inside the vehicle are monitored as the monitoring target, as shown in FIG. 4(b) in the first embodiment.

[0094] <Other embodiments> In addition, the present invention can also be realized by supplying a program or application for realizing the functions of one or more of the above-mentioned embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, etc., and having one or more processors in a computer of the system or device read and execute the program.

[0095] Moreover, it may be realized by a circuit that realizes one or more functions (for example, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA)).

[0096] As such, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and the present invention also contemplates mutual combinations of the various components of the embodiments, as well as modifications and applications by those skilled in the art based on the descriptions in the specification and well-known technologies, and these are included in the scope of protection sought.

[0097] As described above, the present specification discloses the following: (1) A condition monitoring device for a device consisting of one or more components, a measuring means for measuring gas produced by the one or more components as the temperature changes; a diagnostic means for diagnosing an abnormal state of the device in response to the gas measured by the measuring means; of A condition monitoring device comprising: According to this configuration, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom in the configuration for status monitoring while suppressing the occurrence of damage to the device due to heat generation.

[0098] (2) The condition monitoring device according to (1), wherein the diagnostic means identifies a component generating gas from among the one or more components based on the measurement result of the measurement means. According to this configuration, it is possible to identify the part where abnormal heat is occurring from one or more parts, depending on the gas measurement result.

[0099] (3) further comprising an acquisition means for acquiring operation information of the device; The condition monitoring device according to (1) or (2), wherein the measurement means controls measurement timing in response to operation information of the device. According to this configuration, the timing of gas measurement can be changed depending on the operating condition of the device.

[0100] (4) The measuring means is configured to be able to switch a gas flow path, The gas flow path is switched in response to the operation information of the device. The condition monitoring device according to (3) above. According to this configuration, it is possible to switch the gas flow path depending on the operating condition of the device and perform appropriate gas measurement.

[0101] (5) The device is a vehicle; The state monitoring device according to (3) or (4), wherein the operation information is information on the running state of the vehicle. According to this configuration, it is possible to switch the gas measurement operation depending on the running state of the vehicle.

[0102] (6) The condition monitoring device according to any one of (1) to (5), wherein the measuring means is configured to be able to switch between a cleaning operation and a measuring operation. According to this configuration, by switching between the cleaning operation and the measurement operation, it is possible to perform the measurement with higher accuracy.

[0103] (7) The condition monitoring device according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein the one or more parts include at least one of a rolling bearing, a tire, a brake, an engine, a transmission, a motor, and a battery. According to this configuration, each part constituting the vehicle can be applied as a monitoring target.

[0104] (8) The condition monitoring device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the measuring means includes a semiconductor gas sensor. According to this configuration, gas can be detected using a semiconductor gas sensor.

[0105] (9) The condition monitoring device according to any one of (1) to (8), wherein the measuring means is provided in a hub bearing included in the device. According to this configuration, the hub bearing is provided with a measuring means, making it possible to detect gas.

[0106] (10) A method for monitoring the status of a device comprising one or more components, comprising: a measuring step of measuring gas generated from the one or more components with a gas sensor as a function of temperature change; a diagnostic step of diagnosing an abnormal state of the device according to the gas measured in the measurement step; of A condition monitoring method comprising: According to this configuration, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom in the configuration for status monitoring while suppressing the occurrence of damage to the device due to heat generation.

[0107] (11) To a computer: a measuring step of measuring gas generated from one or more components constituting the device in response to a temperature change using a gas sensor; a diagnostic step of diagnosing an abnormal state of the device according to the gas measured in the measurement step; A program for executing. According to this configuration, it is possible to improve the degree of freedom in the configuration for status monitoring while suppressing the occurrence of damage to the device due to heat generation. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 100...Equipment (vehicle) 101...Part 102...Gas 103...Gas sensor 200...Condition monitoring device 201…CPU(Central Processing Unit) 202…Storage device 203...Sensor IF (interface) 204...Input device 205...Output device 206...Communication equipment 211…signal acquisition unit 212...Signal analysis section 213…Abnormality diagnosis section 214...Information storage unit 215...Notification processing unit 216...Communication processing unit

Claims

1. A status monitoring device for a device that is composed of one or more components, a measuring means for measuring gases produced by the one or more components as the temperature changes; a diagnosis means for diagnosing a location from which gas is being generated and a degree of abnormality in the one or more components based on a result of the gas measurement by the measurement means; a control means for controlling the device using a control content that is predefined for the degree of abnormality diagnosed by the diagnosis means; having the measuring means is configured to be switchable between a cleaning operation and a measuring operation, In the cleaning operation, after the outside air is sucked in, the outside air is measured by the measuring means; In the measurement operation, after sucking in gas generated from the one or more components, the gas is measured by the measuring means; The diagnostic means derives the degree of gas generation based on the difference between the measurement results in the cleaning operation and the measurement results in the measurement operation, and diagnoses the location from which gas is being generated and the degree of abnormality among the one or more components.

2. The device further includes an acquisition means for acquiring operation information of the device, 2. The condition monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein said measuring means controls measurement timing in response to operation information of said device.

3. The measuring means is configured to be capable of switching a gas flow path, The gas flow path is switched in response to the operation information of the device.

3. The condition monitoring device according to claim 2.

4. the device is a vehicle; 4. The state monitoring device according to claim 2, wherein the operation information is information about a running state of the vehicle.

5. 5. The condition monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein the one or more components include at least one of a rolling bearing, a tire, a brake, an engine, a transmission, a motor, and a battery.

6. 6. The condition monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein the measuring means includes a semiconductor gas sensor.

7. 7. The condition monitoring device according to claim 1, wherein the measuring means is provided in a hub bearing included in the device.

8. A method for monitoring the status of a device that is composed of one or more components, comprising: a measuring step of measuring gas generated from the one or more components with a gas sensor as a function of temperature change; a diagnosis step of diagnosing a location from which gas is being generated and a degree of abnormality in the one or more components based on a result of the gas measurement in the measurement step; a control step of controlling the device using a control content that is predefined for the degree of the abnormality diagnosed in the diagnosis step; having The measuring step is configured to be switchable between a cleaning operation and a measuring operation, In the cleaning operation, after the outside air is sucked in, the outside air is measured, In the measuring operation, the gas generated from the one or more components is sucked in, and then the gas is measured; The condition monitoring method is characterized in that in the diagnosis process, the degree of gas generation is derived based on the difference between the measurement results in the cleaning operation and the measurement results in the measurement operation, and the location from which gas is being generated and the degree of abnormality are diagnosed among the one or more components.

9. On the computer, a measuring step of measuring gas generated from one or more components constituting the device in response to a temperature change using a gas sensor; a diagnosis step of diagnosing a location from which gas is being generated and a degree of abnormality in the one or more components based on a result of the gas measurement in the measurement step; a control step of controlling the device using a control content that is predefined for the degree of the abnormality diagnosed in the diagnosis step; A program for executing The measuring step is configured to be switchable between a cleaning operation and a measuring operation, In the cleaning operation, after the outside air is sucked in, the outside air is measured, In the measuring operation, the gas generated from the one or more components is sucked in, and then the gas is measured; The program is characterized in that in the diagnosis process, the degree of gas generation is derived based on the difference between the measurement results in the cleaning operation and the measurement results in the measurement operation, and the location from which gas is being generated and the degree of abnormality are diagnosed among the one or more components.

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