Abnormal detection device, slag conveying device, and slag conveying method

Abstract

Provided is an abnormality detection device that performs detection such that abnormality in a slag transport device can be appropriately detected.　The abnormality detection device detects abnormality in a transport device having: a first flow path; a second flow path connected to the first flow path and having a plurality of branches; a switching part that switches the connection between the first flow path and the plurality of branches of the second flow path; and an actuator that moves the switching part. The abnormality detection device has a movable part having a tip-end surface that moves in accordance with the operation of the actuator, a plurality of first sensors that detect the switching part being connected to one branch of the second flow path, and a plurality of second sensors that detect the switching part being connected to another branch of the second flow path. The plurality of first sensors are disposed along the width direction of the tip-end surface of the movable part. The plurality of second sensors are disposed at positions different from each other along the one direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an abnormality detection device for detecting an abnormality when conveying slag discharged from a furnace, a slag conveying device, and a slag conveying method.

Background Art

[0002] The slag discharged from the furnace is carried out to a predetermined container through a flow path having a branch. As such a device, a device for switching the diversion of the blast furnace slag at an arbitrary ratio is disclosed in Patent Document 1.

[0003] In addition, a switching unit for switching the connection of the branch of the flow path is provided, and by switching the connection of the switching unit, the slag is discharged to a desired branch. For the switching unit, for example, a flow path connecting a flow path provided on the blast furnace side and a flow path having a branch is used.

[0004] The switching of the connection of the switching unit is performed by moving the switching unit to the branch to be switched. The stopping of the switching unit is performed by installing a sensor such as a limit switch at a stopping position for stopping the switching unit and stopping according to the operation of the sensor.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] However, when the switching unit is stopped according to the operation of the sensor, if the sensor fails, there is a risk that the switching unit cannot be stopped at an appropriate position. For this reason, there is a risk that the slag may flow to a position different from the desired position.

[0007] The failure of the sensor may include the case where the signal of the sensor does not enter. In addition, the failure of the sensor may also include the case where the sensor is stuck and the input signal continues to enter. Thus, since the causes of sensor failure are diverse, there is a problem that the above-mentioned malfunctions are likely to occur.

[0008] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object thereof is to provide an abnormality detection device capable of appropriately detecting an abnormality in a slag conveying device. Another object of the present invention is to provide a slag conveying device and a conveying method capable of appropriately operating a switching unit that switches the connection of a flow path of the conveying device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0009] In order to solve the above problems, the present invention has the following features.

[0010] [1] An abnormality detection device for detecting an abnormality in a slag conveying device, the slag conveying device having a first flow path connected to a furnace, a second flow path connected to the first flow path and having a plurality of branches, a switching unit for switching the connection between the first flow path and the plurality of branches of the second flow path, and an actuator for moving the switching unit from one end to the other end in the width direction of the second flow path, the abnormality detection device comprising: a movable part that moves in one direction corresponding to the operation of the actuator and has a front end surface formed at the tip of the one direction; a sensor group having a plurality of first sensors for detecting that the connection of the switching unit is connected to one branch arranged on one end side in the width direction of the second flow path, and a plurality of second sensors for detecting that the connection of the switching unit is connected to another branch arranged on the other end side in the width direction of the second flow path; the plurality of first sensors are arranged along the width direction of the front end surface of the movable part, and detect that the movable part has reached the arrangement position of the first sensors; the plurality of second sensors are arranged at different positions along the one direction, and detect that the movable part has reached the arrangement position of the second sensors. [2] The plurality of the first sensors are arranged along the one direction with respect to the plurality of the second sensors, and the second sensor arranged on the distal side as viewed from the first sensor detects that the switching portion is located at the end portion on the other end side in the width direction of the second flow path. The abnormality detection device according to [1]. [3] The second flow path has one or a plurality of branches arranged between the one branch and the other branch in the width direction thereof, and the sensor group has a plurality of third sensors that detect that the sensor group is connected to the one or the plurality of branches. The abnormality detection device according to [1] or [2]. [4] A slag conveying device including a first flow path connected to a furnace, a second flow path connected to the first flow path and having a plurality of branches, a switching portion that switches the connection between the first flow path and the plurality of branches of the second flow path, and an actuator that moves the switching portion from one end to the other end in the width direction of the second flow path, a sensor group having a plurality of first sensors that detect that the connection of the switching portion is connected to one branch arranged on one end side in the width direction of the second flow path, and a plurality of second sensors that detect that the connection of the switching portion is connected to the other branch arranged on the other end side in the width direction of the second flow path, a detection signal acquisition unit that acquires detection signals from each of the plurality of the first sensors and each of the plurality of the second sensors, an operation information acquisition unit that acquires switching operation information of the switching portion, an operation state information generation unit that generates operation state information indicating an operation state of the switching portion based on the switching operation information and the detection signal, and an operation control unit that controls the operation of the actuator based on the operation state information. The slag conveying device includes the above components. [5] The operation state information generation unit generates the operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit is abnormal when there is no change in the detection state of each of the plurality of first sensors among the detection signals of each of the plurality of first sensors, or when at least one of the plurality of first sensors is different from the detection signal of another first sensor. The operation control unit controls the operation of the actuator based on the operation state information, and the slag conveying device according to [4]. [6] The operation state information generation unit generates the operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit is abnormal when there is no change in the detection state of each of the plurality of second sensors, or when at least one of the plurality of second sensors is different from the detection signal of another second sensor. The operation control unit controls the operation of the actuator based on the operation state information, and the slag conveying device according to [4] or [5]. [7] The operation control unit returns the actuator to the operation start position based on the operation state information, and the slag conveying device according to [5] or [6]. [8] The slag conveying device according to any one of [4] to [7], which has a notification unit that performs notification according to the operation state information. [9] A slag conveying method including a first flow path connected to a furnace, a second flow path connected to the first flow path and having a plurality of branches, a switching unit that switches the connection between the first flow path and the plurality of branches of the second flow path, and an actuator that moves the switching unit from one end to the other end in the width direction of the second flow path, A detection signal acquisition step of acquiring detection signals from each of a plurality of first sensors that detect that the connection of the switching unit is connected to one branch arranged on one end side in the width direction of the second flow path, and a plurality of second sensors that detect that the connection of the switching unit is connected to another branch arranged on the other end side in the width direction of the second flow path. An operation information acquisition step of acquiring switching operation information of the switching unit. An operation state information generation step of generating operation state information indicating an operation state of the switching unit based on the switching operation information and the detection signal; An operation control step of controlling the operation of the actuator based on the operation state information, the method for transporting slag.

[10] In the operation state information generation step, among the detection signals of each of the plurality of first sensors, when there is no change in the detection state of each of the plurality of first sensors or when at least one of the plurality of first sensors is different from the detection signal of another first sensor, the operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit is abnormal is generated; In the operation control step, the operation of the actuator is controlled based on the operation state information, the method for transporting slag according to [9].

[11] In the operation state information generation step, when there is no change in the detection state of each of the plurality of second sensors or when at least one of the plurality of second sensors is different from the detection signal of another second sensor, the operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit is abnormal is generated; In the operation control step, the operation of the actuator is controlled based on the operation state information, the method for transporting slag according to [9] or

[10] .

[12] In the operation control step, the actuator is returned to the operation start position based on the operation state information, the method for transporting slag according to

[10] or

[11] . [Advantages of the Invention]

[0011] According to the abnormality detection device of the present invention, it has a plurality of first sensors arranged along the width direction of the tip surface of the movable part, and a plurality of second sensors arranged at different positions along one direction. By providing the plurality of first sensors along such a direction, it becomes possible to detect the same detection target with a plurality of first sensors at the same time. Thereby, it becomes possible to determine whether or not a failure has occurred in the plurality of first sensors. Further, since the plurality of second sensors are arranged at different positions along one direction, even when a failure has occurred in one of the second sensors, the detection target can be detected by the other second sensor. Thereby, the abnormality detection device can appropriately detect the abnormality of the slag conveying device.

[0012] Also, according to the slag conveying device and the conveying method of the present invention, operation state information indicating the operation state of the switching unit is generated based on the switching operation information of the switching unit and the detection signals of the first sensor and the second sensor. By performing operation control of the actuator based on this operation state information, even when one of the plurality of first sensors and one of the plurality of second sensors fail, the switching unit can be appropriately operated. Thereby, the switching operation of the switching unit can be continuously performed without stopping. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a serious trouble that stops the operation of the equipment.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0013]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows the configuration of a slag conveyance device 100.

[0015] The slag conveyance device 100 includes a first flow path 20 connected to a blast furnace 10 as a furnace, a second flow path 30 connected to the first flow path 20 and having a plurality of branches 31 and 32, and a switching unit 40 that switches the connection between the first flow path 20 and the plurality of branches 31 and 32 of the second flow path 30. Note that the furnace is not limited to the blast furnace 10, and may be a furnace other than a blast furnace, such as a furnace for separating mill scale on a casting bed.

[0016] The first flow path 20 is formed to be inclined so as to become lower from the proximal end side connected to the blast furnace 10 toward the distal end side. The slag discharged into the first flow path 20 flows from the proximal end side toward the distal end side.

[0017] The switching unit 40 has an upstream side connected to the first flow path 20 and a downstream side connected to either of the branches 31 and 32 of the second flow path 30. The switching unit 40 is movable from the solid line position to the dotted line position in the figure so as to be able to switch the connection to either of the branches 31 and 32. Thereby, the switching unit 40 supplies the slag supplied from the first flow path 20 to either of the branches 31 and 32.

[0018] The second flow path 30 is a flow path having a plurality of branches 31 and 32. In the present embodiment, the branch 31 is arranged on one end side in the width direction of the second flow path and is connected to the first destination. The branch 32 is arranged on the other end side in the width direction of the second flow path and is connected to the second destination. Note that the second flow path 30 may be configured such that one or more branches are provided between the branches 31 and 32.

[0019] The first destination and the second destination may be set as, for example, different conveyance destinations from each other. Each of the branches 31 and 32 is formed to be inclined so as to become lower from the proximal end side connected to the switching unit 40 toward the distal end side. The slag discharged to the branches 31 and 32 flows from the proximal end side toward the distal end side.

[0020] In this way, the slag discharged from the blast furnace 10 flows into the switching unit 40 from the first flow path 20. The slag in the switching unit 40 is supplied to the branches 31 and 32 of the connected second flow path.

[0021] The slag conveyance device 100 has an abnormality detection device 80 that detects an abnormality of the conveyance device 100. The abnormality detection device 80 has an actuator 50 that moves the switching unit 40 from one end to the other end in the width direction of the second flow path 30, and a sensor group 8 that detects the operation of the actuator 50.

[0022] The actuator 50 includes a cylinder 51 formed in a hollow cylindrical shape and a piston 52 that slides inside the cylinder 51. The cylinder 51 contains, for example, a gas as a fluid. Two types of solenoid valves (not shown) are connected to the cylinder 51, and the internal pressure inside the cylinder 51 is configured to be variable by exciting and demagnetizing these solenoid valves.

[0023] The piston 52 has a rod-shaped connecting member, and one end thereof is connected to the switching unit 40. In this way, when the piston 52 slides inside the cylinder 51, the connection position of the switching unit 40 is configured to be switched. In the present embodiment, the switching unit 40 is connected to the actuator 50 so as to be movable to a switching position P located outside the branch 32 in addition to the branches 31 and 32. The switching position P is not particularly limited, but may be, for example, a position where maintenance of the switching unit 40 is performed.

[0024] The control device 60 controls the operation of the entire slag conveying device 100 including the actuator 50. The control device 60 switches the connection position of the switching unit 40 by operating the solenoid valve connected to the cylinder 51. The control device 60 is electrically connected to the notification unit 70.

[0025] The notification unit 70 is a member that notifies the user of the operating status of the actuator 50 and the like. The notification unit 70 receives a signal from the control device 60 and notifies the user by outputting visual information and voice information. As the notification unit 70, for example, a liquid crystal display, a speaker, or the like can be used.

[0026] Figure 2 shows the configuration of an abnormality detection device that detects an abnormality in the slag conveying device 100. As shown in Figure 2, the abnormality detection device 80 has a plate-like portion 81 as a movable portion that moves in one direction D1 corresponding to the operation of the actuator 50.

[0027] The plate-like portion 81 is formed in a plate shape. In the present embodiment, the plate-like portion 81 is formed in an L shape in order to avoid interference with the cylinder 51 when the piston 52 slides to the proximal end of the cylinder 51. Specifically, the plate-like portion 81 has a support portion formed along a direction perpendicular to the axis of the piston of the actuator 50 and a main body portion formed in a plate shape along one direction D1 from the support portion.

[0028] The abnormality detection device 80 has a plurality of first sensors 82, 83 that detect that the connection of the switching unit 40 is connected to the branch 31, and a plurality of second sensors 84, 85 that detect that the connection of the switching unit 40 is connected to the branch 32. The abnormality detection device 80 also has a switching position sensor 86 that detects that the connection of the switching unit 40 is connected to the switching position P.

[0029] The first sensors 82, 83, the second sensors 84, 85, and the switching position sensor 86 are not particularly limited, but in this embodiment, limit switches can be used. Therefore, when the plate-shaped portion 81 advances toward the right side in FIG. 2, the protrusions of the first sensors 82, 83, the second sensors 84, 85, and the switching position sensor 86 come into contact with the plate-shaped portion 81.

[0030] The first sensors 82, 83 are provided at the arrival position of the plate-shaped portion 81 corresponding to the position where the connection of the switching portion 40 is connected to the branch 31. Therefore, the first sensors 82, 83 detect, by contact with the plate-shaped portion 81, that the connection of the switching portion 40 is connected to the branch 31. Incidentally, two first sensors 82, 83 are provided in this embodiment, but three or more may be provided according to the implementation mode.

[0031] Similarly, the second sensors 84, 85 are provided at the arrival position of the plate-shaped portion 81 corresponding to the position where the connection of the switching portion 40 is connected to the branch 32. Therefore, the second sensors 84, 85 detect, by contact with the plate-shaped portion 81, that the connection of the switching portion 40 is connected to the branch 32. Incidentally, two second sensors 84, 85 are provided in this embodiment, but three or more may be provided according to the implementation mode. Further, when the second flow path 30 has one or more branches between the branches 31 and 32, a third sensor (not shown) having the same configuration as the second sensors 84, 85 may be provided for each branch.

[0032] Similarly, the switching position sensor 86 is provided at the arrival position of the plate-shaped portion 81 corresponding to the position where the connection of the switching portion 40 is connected to the switching position P. Therefore, the switching position sensor 86 detects, by contact with the plate-shaped portion 81, that the connection of the switching portion 40 is connected to the switching position P.

[0033] FIG. 3 shows a mode in which the first sensors 82 and 83 are in contact with the plate-like portion 81. As shown in FIG. 3, the plate-like portion 81 has a front end surface 81a formed on the front end side in one direction D1. Note that the movable portion is not limited to the plate-like portion 81 formed in a plate shape, and any shape having a front end surface 81a capable of contacting each of the sensors 82 to 86 of the sensor group 8 may be used. The movable portion may be, for example, a rod-shaped member having a front end surface 81a formed by bifurcating into a plurality of parts such as a U shape or a W shape at one end.

[0034] The first sensors 82 and 83 are arranged along the width direction D2 of the front end surface 81a of the plate-like portion 81. In other words, the first sensors 82 and 83 are arranged in a direction along the surface 81b of the plate-like portion 81 and along a direction D2 perpendicular to the one direction D1.

[0035] The first sensors 82 and 83 include main body portions 82a and 83a formed in a rectangular parallelepiped shape, and protruding portions 82b and 83b pivotally supported on one end side of the main body portions 82a and 83a and formed in a rod shape so as to be rotatable about the axis. Therefore, when the protruding portions 82b and 83b of the first sensors 82 and 83 come into contact with the plate-like portion 81, the protruding portions 82b and 83b tilt about the axis.

[0036] Thereby, the first sensors 82 and 83 detect that the plate-like portion 81 has reached the arrangement positions of the first sensors 82 and 83. Further, since the first sensors 82 and 83 are arranged in this way, it is possible to simultaneously detect the plate-like portion 81 that is the same detection target. When the plate-like portion 81 is detected by the first sensors 82 and 83, the operation of the actuator 50 stops. In this way, by redundantizing the first sensors 82 and 83, the executability of the switching operation of the switching unit 40 can be improved.

[0037] Further, the first sensors 82 and 83 may be provided at the ends of the range in which the piston 52 of the actuator 50 moves, that is, at positions corresponding to the vicinity of the limit positions of the movable range of the piston 52. By providing the first sensors 82 and 83 at such positions, even if one of the first sensors 82 and 83 fails, as long as the other is normal, it is possible to surely stop the switching unit 40.

[0038] FIG. 4 shows a mode in which the second sensors 84 and 85 are in contact with the plate-shaped portion 81. As shown in FIG. 4, the second sensors 84 and 85 are arranged at different positions along one direction D1. The second sensor 84 is provided on the proximal side as viewed from the first sensors 82 and 83. Hereinafter, the second sensor 84 is also referred to as the first second sensor 84. The second sensor 85 is provided on the distal side as viewed from the first sensors 82 and 83. Hereinafter, the second sensor 85 is also referred to as the second second sensor.

[0039] The second sensors 84 and 85 each have a rectangular parallelepiped main body portion 84a and 85a, and a protruding portion 84b and 85b that is pivotally supported on one end side of the main body portion 84a and 85a and protrudes from the main body portion 84a and 85a in a rod shape so as to be rotatable about the axis. Therefore, when the protruding portions 84b and 85b of the second sensors 84 and 85 come into contact with the plate-shaped portion 81, the protruding portions 84b and 85b tilt about the axis. Thereby, the second sensors 84 and 85 detect that the plate-shaped portion 81 has reached the arrangement positions of the second sensors 84 and 85.

[0040] The first second sensor 84 may be provided, for example, at the center in the width direction of the branch 32. When the first second sensor 84 comes into contact with the plate-shaped portion 81, the operation of the actuator 50 stops.

[0041] The second second sensor 85 may be provided near an end portion located on the branch 32 side, which is the other end side in the width direction of the second flow path 30, that is, near a position corresponding to the limit position of the movable range of the piston 52. By providing the second sensor 85 at such a position, even when the first sensor 84 fails, the second sensor 85 can detect the object. Thereby, it becomes possible to stop the switching operation of the switching unit 40 within the range in the width direction of the second flow path 30. In this way, by redundantizing the second sensors 84 and 85, the executability of the switching operation of the switching unit 40 can be enhanced.

[0042] Incidentally, the first sensor 82 ,83 , the second sensors 84 and 85, and the switching position sensor 86 are not limited to limit switches. For example, a light emitting element and a light receiving element may be provided as a pair, and the plate-like portion 81 may be detected according to the light receiving mode of the light receiving element.

[0043] The first sensor 82 ,83 , the second sensors 84 and 85, and the switching position sensor 86 may detect the plate-like portion 81 by a change in the amount of received light due to the front surface of the light receiving element being shielded by the plate-like portion 81. Further, it may be detected by a change in the light reception timing of the emitted light by the light receiving element when pulsed light is emitted.

[0044] Also, the plate-like portion 81, the first sensor 82 ,83 , the second sensors 84 and 85, and the switching position sensor 86 are preferably provided in an area less affected by heat. For example, the plate-like portion 81 and the sensors 82 to 86 may be provided at positions partitioned by a partition member (not shown) or the like from the slag conveying device 100. As the partition member, a member having heat insulation properties is preferably used.

[0045] FIG. 5 shows the functional blocks of the slag conveying device. As shown in FIG. 5, the slag conveying device 100 includes a sensor group 8 including first sensors 82 and 83 to a switching position sensor 86, an actuator 50, and a notification unit 70, which are electrically connected to a control device 60.

[0046] The control device 60 includes an input unit 61 that is an input interface, a storage unit 62 that stores various information input from the input unit 61, an output unit 63 that is an output interface, and a control unit 64 that controls the control device 60, which are electrically connected to each other via a bus 65.

[0047] The storage unit 62 can use known storage means such as an HDD (hard disk drive) or an SSD (solid state drive), although it is not particularly limited. In the storage unit 62, detection signals input from various sensors 82 to 86 of the sensor group 8 are stored as time-series data. The detection signals include an ON signal indicating that the plate-shaped part 81 is in contact with the various sensors 82 to 86 and an OFF signal indicating that the plate-shaped part 81 is not in contact with the sensors 82 to 86. Further, operation information output from the actuator 50 is stored in the storage unit 62. Note that the storage unit 62 may be stored in, for example, a server device (not shown) other than the control device 60.

[0048] The control unit 64 is a computer composed of a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM. It has a detection signal acquisition unit 64a that acquires detection signals from each of the first sensors 82 and 83 and each of the plurality of second sensors 84 and 85. The control unit 64 has an operation information acquisition unit 64b that acquires the switching operation information of the switching unit 40. The control unit 64 has an operation state information generation unit 64c that generates operation state information indicating the operation state of the switching unit 40 based on the switching operation information and the detection signals. The control unit 64 has an operation control unit 64d that controls the operation of the actuator 50 based on the operation state information. Note that the detection signal acquisition unit 64a, the operation information acquisition unit 64b, the operation state information generation unit 64c, and the operation control unit 64d are realized by reading data stored in the storage unit 62 and a program that is computer software, and performing arithmetic processing based on the data and in accordance with the program.

[0049] The detection signal acquisition unit 64a acquires the detection signals of the sensors 82 to 86 of the sensor group 8 stored in the storage unit 62.

[0050] The operation information acquisition unit 64b acquires the operation information of the actuator 50 stored in the storage unit 62 as the switching operation information of the switching unit 40.

[0051] The operation state information generation unit 64c generates normal operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching operation of the switching unit 40 is normal and abnormal operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching operation of the switching unit 40 is abnormal based on the switching operation information and the detection signals.

[0052] The normal operation state information is generated, for example, when each of the first sensors 82 and 83 has fluctuations in the type of similar detection signals, that is, fluctuations in the same detection state. Specifically, when the switching unit 40 moves from the branch 31 to the branch 32, each of the first sensors 82 and 83 starts to contact the plate-like portion 81 when it moves a predetermined distance after the switching unit 40 starts moving. For this reason, the detection signal of each of the first sensors 82 and 83 fluctuates from ON to OFF. Therefore, it is considered that each of the first sensors 82 and 83 is operating normally. In such a case, the normal operation state information is generated.

[0053] The abnormal operation state information is generated, for example, when there are no fluctuations in the type of detection signals of each of the first sensors 82 and 83, that is, when there are no fluctuations in the detection state. Specifically, when the switching unit 40 moves from the branch 31 to the branch 32, each of the first sensors 82 and 83 starts to contact the plate-like portion 81 when it moves a predetermined distance after the switching unit 40 starts moving. For this reason, when each of the first sensors 82 and 83 operates normally, the detection signal fluctuates from ON to OFF. Therefore, when there are no fluctuations in the detection state even after the passage of the time corresponding to the movement of the predetermined distance, it is considered that each of the first sensors 82 and 83 has failed. In such a case, the abnormal operation state information is generated.

[0054] Further, the abnormal operation state information is generated, for example, when at least one of the first sensors 82 and 83 is different from the detection signals of the other first sensors 82 and 83. As described above, since the first sensors 82 and 83 are considered to be functioning normally when there are fluctuations in the same detection state, the abnormal operation state information is generated when the detection states do not match.

[0055] Further, the abnormal operation state information is generated, for example, when there is no variation in the type of detection signals of each of the second sensors 84 and 85, that is, when there is no variation in the detection state. Specifically, when the switching unit 40 moves from the branch 31 to the branch 32, the first second sensor 84 comes into contact with the plate-shaped portion 81 when it moves a predetermined distance after the switching unit 40 starts moving. Therefore, when the first second sensor 84 operates normally, the detection signal varies from OFF to ON. Thus, when there is no variation in the detection state even after the passage of the time corresponding to the movement of the predetermined distance, it is considered that the first second sensor 84 has failed. In such a case, the abnormal operation state information is generated.

[0056] In this case, the plate-shaped portion 81 further proceeds in one direction. The second second sensor 85 comes into contact with the plate-shaped portion 81 when it moves a predetermined distance after the switching unit 40 starts moving. Therefore, when the second second sensor 85 operates normally, the detection signal varies from OFF to ON. Thus, when there is no variation in the detection state even after the passage of the time corresponding to the movement of the predetermined distance, it is considered that the second second sensor 85 has failed. In such a case, the abnormal operation state information is generated.

[0057] Further, the abnormal operation state information is generated, for example, when at least one of the second sensors 84 and 85 is different from the detection signals of the other second sensors 84 and 85. As described above, the second second sensor 85 operates when the plate-shaped portion 81 moves beyond the installation position of the first second sensor 84. Therefore, when the detection states do not match such that the first second sensor 84 does not detect and the second second sensor 85 detects, the abnormal operation state information is generated.

[0058] The operation control unit 64d controls the operation of the actuator 50 based on the normal operation state information and the abnormal operation state information. For example, when the abnormal operation state information is generated such that the second sensors 84 and 85 are in different detection states, the operation control unit 64d controls the operation of the actuator 50 to return the switching unit 40 to the position of the branch 31. By performing such control, the operation control unit 64d causes the actuator 50 to stop at the end position of the movable range of the cylinder 51. Therefore, since the switching unit 40 is surely stopped at the connection position of the branch 31, the switching operation of the switching unit 40 can be safely executed.

[0059] FIG. 6 shows a processing flow R1 of a method for transporting slag by the slag transport device 100. The processing flow R1 shown in FIG. 6 shows the case where the switching unit 40 moves from the branch 31 to the branch 32. Note that the processing flow R1 of the slag transport method is started, for example, by the operation of the actuator 50.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 6, when the processing of the slag transport method is started, the detection signal acquisition unit 64a acquires detection signals from the first sensors 82 and 83 and the second sensors 84 and 85 from the storage unit 62 (step S101). When the detection signal acquisition step of step S101 is executed, the detection signal acquisition unit 64a may sequentially acquire detection signals until this processing ends.

[0061] Next, the operation information acquisition unit 64b reads and acquires the switching operation information of the switching unit 40 from the storage unit 62 (step S102). When the operation information acquisition step of step S102 is executed, the operation information acquisition unit 64b may sequentially acquire the switching operation information until this processing ends. Note that either the detection signal acquisition step of step S101 or the operation information acquisition step of step S102 may be performed first, or they may be executed simultaneously.

[0062] The operation state information generation unit 64c determines based on the detection signal whether both of the first sensors 82 and 83 are OFF (step S103). The determination in step S103 may be made when the switching unit 40 has moved the distance required for the first sensors 82 and 83 to switch from ON to OFF. For example, the operation state information generation unit 64c may predetermine the movement time of the switching unit 40 for the said distance, and make the determination after the elapse of the movement time since the switching unit 40 starts moving. Incidentally, the movement time of the switching unit 40 may be stored in the storage unit 62 in advance.

[0063] In the determination of step S103, when both of the first sensors 82 and 83 are OFF (step S103: Yes), the operation state information generation unit 64c determines whether the first second sensor 84 is ON (step S104). The determination in step S104 may be made when the switching unit 40 has moved from the first sensors 82 and 83 to the first second sensor 84. For example, the operation state information generation unit 64c may predetermine the movement time of the switching unit 40 for the said distance, and make the determination after the elapse of the movement time since the switching unit 40 starts moving. Incidentally, the movement time of the switching unit 40 may be stored in the storage unit 62 in advance.

[0064] In the determination of step S104, when the first second sensor 84 is ON (step S104: Yes), the operation state information generation unit 64c generates normal operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit 40 is normal (step S105). That is, the operation state information generation process is executed.

[0065] Based on the normal operation state information generated in step S104, the operation control unit 64d stops the operation of the actuator 50 (step S106) and ends the process. That is, the operation control process is executed. Incidentally, when the stop process of step S106 is performed, the control device 60 may cause the notification unit 70 to output a voice indicating that the operation has been performed normally for notification.

[0066] In the determination of step S104, when the first second sensor 84 is not ON (step S104: No), the operation state information generation unit 64c determines whether the second second sensor 85 is ON, and then generates abnormal operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit 40 is abnormal (step S107). That is, the operation state information generation process is executed. Note that the determination of whether the second second sensor 85 is ON may be performed when the switching unit 40 moves from the first sensors 82 and 83 to the second second sensor 85. Also, the process may be performed using the moving time according to the description of the explanation of step S104.

[0067] Based on the abnormal operation state information generated in step S107, the operation control unit 64d stops the operation of the switching unit 40 and operates the actuator 50 to return to the position of branch 31, that is, the operation start position (step S108), and ends the process. That is, the operation control process is executed. Note that when the process of step S108 is performed, the control device 60 may cause the notification unit 70 to output, for example, a voice indicating that the operation of the switching unit 40 is abnormal.

[0068] In the determination of step S103, when both of the first sensors 82 and 83 are not OFF (step S103: No), the operation state information generation unit 64c determines based on the detection signal whether any one of the first sensors 82 and 83 is OFF (step S109).

[0069] When any one of the first sensors 82 and 83 is OFF (step S109: Yes), the operation state information generation unit 64c generates abnormal operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit 40 is abnormal based on the fact that there is an abnormality in any one of the first sensors 82 and 83 (step S110). That is, the operation state information generation process is executed.

[0070] Based on the abnormal operation state information generated in step S110, the operation control unit 64d stops the operation of the switching unit 40 and operates the actuator 50 to return to the position of the branch 31, that is, the operation start position (step S108), and ends the process. That is, the operation control process is executed. Note that when the process of step S108 is performed, the control device 60 may cause the notification unit 70 to output, for example, a voice indicating that the operation of the switching unit 40 is abnormal.

[0071] When neither of the first sensors 82 and 83 is OFF (step S109: No), based on the fact that both of the first sensors 82 and 83 are abnormal, the operation state information generation unit 64c generates abnormal operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit 40 is abnormal (step S111). That is, the operation state information generation process is executed.

[0072] Based on the abnormal operation state information generated in step S111, the operation control unit 64d stops the operation of the switching unit 40 (step S112) and ends the process. That is, the operation control process is executed. Note that when the stop process of step S112 is performed, the control device 60 may cause the notification unit 70 to output, for example, a voice indicating that the operation of the switching unit 40 is abnormal.

[0073] FIG. 7 shows a processing flow R2 of a method for transporting slag by the slag transport device 100. The processing flow R2 shown in FIG. 7 shows the case where the switching unit 40 moves from the branch 32 to the branch 31. Note that the processing flow R2 of the slag transport method is started, for example, by the operation of the actuator 50.

[0074] As shown in FIG. 7, when the processing of the slag transport method is started, the detection signal acquisition unit 64a acquires detection signals from the first sensors 82 and 83 and the second sensors 84 and 85 from the storage unit 62 (step S201). When the detection signal acquisition process of step S201 is executed, the detection signal acquisition unit 64a may sequentially acquire detection signals until this process ends.

[0075] Next, the operation information acquisition unit 64b reads from the storage unit 62 and acquires the switching operation information of the switching unit 40 (step S202). When the operation information acquisition process of step S202 is executed, the operation information acquisition unit 64b may sequentially acquire the switching operation information until this process ends. Note that in the detection signal acquisition process of step S201 and the operation information acquisition process of step S202, either process may be performed first, or they may be executed simultaneously.

[0076] Based on the detection signal, the operation state information generation unit 64c determines whether the first second sensor 84 is OFF (step S203). The determination in step S203 may be made when the switching unit 40 has moved the distance required for the first second sensor 84 to switch from ON to OFF since the switching unit 40 started moving. For example, the operation state information generation unit 64c may determine in advance the movement time of the switching unit 40 for that distance and make the determination after the elapse of that movement time. Note that the movement time of the switching unit 40 may be stored in the storage unit 62 in advance.

[0077] When the first second sensor 84 is OFF (step S203: Yes), the operation state information generation unit 64c proceeds to the next step S204. When the first second sensor 84 is not OFF (step S203: No), based on the fact that there is an abnormality in the first second sensor 84, the operation state information generation unit 64c generates abnormal operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit 40 is abnormal (step S205) and proceeds to the next step S204. That is, the operation state information generation process is executed in step S205. Note that when the process of step S205 is performed, the control device 60 may cause the notification unit 70 to output, for example, a voice indicating that the operation of the switching unit 40 is abnormal.

[0078] The operation state information generation unit 64c determines whether both of the first sensors 82 and 83 are ON based on the detection signal (step S204). The determination in step S204 may be made when the switching unit 40 has moved the distance required for the first sensors 82 and 83 to switch from OFF to ON after starting the movement. For example, the operation state information generation unit 64c may predetermine the movement time of the switching unit 40 for the said distance and make the determination after the elapse of the movement time.

[0079] In the determination of step S204, when both of the first sensors 82 and 83 are ON (step S204: Yes), the operation state information generation unit 64c generates normal operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit 40 is normal (step S206). That is, the operation state information generation process is executed.

[0080] The operation control unit 64d stops the operation of the actuator 50 based on the normal operation state information generated in step S206 (step S207) and ends the process. That is, the operation control process is executed. Incidentally, when the stop process of step S207 is performed, the control device 60 may cause the notification unit 70 to output, for example, a voice indicating that the operation of the switching unit 40 is normal.

[0081] In the determination of step S204, when both of the first sensors 82 and 83 are not ON (step S204: No), the operation state information generation unit 64c determines whether any one of the first sensors 82 and 83 is ON based on the detection signal (step S209).

[0082] In the determination of step S209, when any one of the first sensors 82 and 83 is ON (step S209: Yes), the operation state information generation unit 64c generates abnormal operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit 40 is abnormal based on the abnormality of any one of the first sensors 82 and 83 (step S210). That is, the operation state information generation process is executed.

[0083] Based on the abnormal operation state information generated in step S210, the operation control unit 64d stops the operation of the switching unit 40 (step S211) and ends the process. That is, the operation control process is executed. Note that when the stop process in step S211 is performed, the control device 60 may cause the notification unit 70 to output, for example, a voice indicating that the operation of the switching unit 40 is abnormal.

[0084] When neither of the first sensors 82 and 83 is ON (step S209: No) Based on both of the first sensors 82 and 83 having abnormalities, the operation state information generation unit 64c generates abnormal operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit 40 is abnormal (step S212).

[0085] Based on the abnormal operation state information generated in step S212, the operation control unit 64d stops the operation of the switching unit 40 (step S213) and ends the process. That is, the operation control process is executed. Note that when the stop process in step S213 is performed, the control device 60 may cause the notification unit 70 to output, for example, a voice indicating that the operation of the switching unit 40 is abnormal.

[0086] As described above, according to the present invention, since the first sensors 82 and 83 are provided along a predetermined direction, it becomes possible to detect the same detection target with a plurality of first sensors at the same time. Thereby, it becomes possible to determine whether or not a failure has occurred in the first sensors 82 and 83. Further, since the second sensors 84 and 85 are arranged at different positions along one direction D1, even when a failure has occurred in one of the second sensors 84, the detection target can be detected by the other second sensor 85. Thereby, the abnormality detection device 80 can appropriately detect an abnormality in the slag conveying device 100.

[0087] Also, according to the slag conveying device 100 and the conveying method of the present invention, operation state information indicating the operation state of the switching unit 40 is generated based on the switching operation information of the switching unit 40 and the detection signals of the first sensors 82, 83 and the second sensors 84, 85. Based on this operation state information, the operation of the actuator 50 is controlled, so that the switching unit 40 can be appropriately operated even when the first sensors 82, 83 and the second sensors 84, 85 fail. As a result, the switching operation of the switching unit 40 can be continuously performed without stopping. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of a serious trouble that stops the operation of the facility.

Explanation of Signs

[0088] 100 Conveying device 10 Blast furnace 20 First flow path 30 Second flow path 40 Switching unit 50 Actuator 64a Detection signal acquisition unit 64b Operation information acquisition unit 64c Operation state information generation unit 64d Operation control unit 70 Notification unit 80 Abnormality detection device 81 Plate-like part (movable part) 81a Front end surface 82 First sensor 83 First sensor 84 Second sensor 85 Second sensor D1 One direction D2 Width direction of the front end surface

Claims

1. A first flow path connected to a furnace, a second flow path connected to the first flow path and having a plurality of branches, a switching unit for switching the connection between the first flow path and the plurality of branches of the second flow path, and an actuator for moving the switching unit from one end to the other end in the width direction of the second flow path, an abnormality detection device for detecting an abnormality of a slag conveying device having: A movable part that moves in one direction corresponding to the operation of the actuator and has a tip surface formed at the tip in the one direction; A plurality of first sensors for detecting that the connection of the switching unit is connected to one branch arranged on one end side in the width direction of the second flow path, and a plurality of second sensors for detecting that the connection of the switching unit is connected to another branch arranged on the other end side in the width direction of the second flow path, and a sensor group having: The plurality of first sensors are arranged along the width direction of the tip surface of the movable part, and detect that the movable part has reached the arrangement position of the first sensors; The plurality of second sensors are arranged at different positions from each other along the one direction, and an abnormality detection device that detects that the movable part has reached the arrangement position of the second sensors.

2. The plurality of first sensors are arranged along the one direction with respect to the plurality of second sensors; The second sensor arranged on the distal side as viewed from the first sensor detects that the switching unit is located at the end on the other end side in the width direction of the second flow path. The abnormality detection device according to claim 1.

3. The second flow path has one or a plurality of branches arranged between the one branch and the other branch in its width direction; The sensor group has a plurality of third sensors for detecting that they are connected to the one or a plurality of branches. The abnormality detection device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A slag conveying device having the abnormality detection device according to claim 1, A detection signal acquisition unit that acquires detection signals from each of the plurality of first sensors and each of the plurality of second sensors; An operation information acquisition unit that acquires switching operation information of the switching unit; An operation state information generation unit that generates operation state information indicating the operation state of the switching unit based on the switching operation information and the detection signal; A slag conveying device including an operation control unit that controls the operation of the actuator based on the operation state information.

5. When there is no change in the detection state of each of the plurality of first sensors among the detection signals of each of the plurality of first sensors, or when at least one of the plurality of first sensors is different from the detection signals of the other first sensors, the operation state information generation unit generates the operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit is abnormal. The slag conveying device according to claim 4, wherein the operation control unit controls the operation of the actuator based on the operation state information.

6. When there is no change in the detection state of each of the plurality of second sensors, or when at least one of the plurality of second sensors is different from the detection signals of the other second sensors, the operation state information generation unit generates the operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit is abnormal. The slag conveying device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein the operation control unit controls the operation of the actuator based on the operation state information.

7. The slag conveying device according to claim 5, wherein the operation control unit returns the actuator to the operation start position based on the operation state information.

8. The slag conveying device according to claim 6, wherein the operation control unit returns the actuator to the operation start position based on the operation state information.

9. The slag conveying device according to claim 4, 5, 7 or 8, comprising a notification unit that performs notification according to the operation state information.

10. The slag conveying device according to claim 6, comprising a notification unit that performs notification according to the operation state information.

11. A slag conveying method using the abnormality detection device according to claim 1, comprising: a detection signal acquisition step of acquiring detection signals from each of the plurality of first sensors and the plurality of second sensors; an operation information acquisition step of acquiring switching operation information of the switching unit; an operation state information generation step of generating operation state information indicating the operation state of the switching unit based on the switching operation information and the detection signals; an operation control step of controlling the operation of the actuator based on the operation state information.

12. In the operation state information generation step, among the detection signals of each of the plurality of first sensors, when there is no change in the detection state of each of the plurality of first sensors, or when at least one of the plurality of first sensors is different from the detection signals of the other first sensors, operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit is abnormal is generated. The method for transporting molten slag according to claim 11, wherein in the operation control step, the operation of the actuator is controlled based on the operation state information. **Claim 13** In the operation state information generation step, when there is no change in the detection state of each of the plurality of second sensors, or when at least one of the plurality of second sensors is different from the detection signals of the other second sensors, operation state information indicating that the operation state of the switching unit is abnormal is generated. The method for transporting molten slag according to claim 11 or 12, wherein in the operation control step, the operation of the actuator is controlled based on the operation state information. **Claim 14** The method for transporting molten slag according to claim 12, wherein in the operation control step, the actuator is returned to the operation start position based on the operation state information. **Claim 15** The method for transporting molten slag according to claim 13, wherein in the operation control step, the actuator is returned to the operation start position based on the operation state information.

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