Gas concentration measurement method and normal / abnormal judgment method

Abstract

In continuous production, the state of raw materials is repeatedly checked by sensor detection at predetermined time intervals. [Solution] A method for measuring gas concentration involves activating a mechanism to adjust the concentration of a target gas generated from raw materials contained in a container and drawn into a measurement area including a gas sensor to an appropriate concentration for measurement, and then drawing the target gas into the measurement area after the mechanism has been activated and measuring it with the gas sensor.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for measuring gas concentration and a method for determining whether a gas is normal or abnormal. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a refrigerator that includes a storage compartment for storing food, a door that opens and closes to isolate or open the storage compartment from the outside, a gas sensor that is placed in the storage compartment or the door and outputs an electrical signal corresponding to the concentration of gas released during the food spoilage process, and a determination device that determines the freshness of the food based on changes over time in the output values ​​of the multiple electrical signals output from the gas sensor. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-249990 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Here, by replacing the confirmation of the state of raw materials in the manufacturing process of food products and the like with sensor detection rather than the visual, olfactory, and other senses of workers, it becomes possible to promote the automation of the manufacturing process. On the other hand, when continuous production is performed in the manufacturing process, it is required to confirm the state of raw materials by sensor detection at predetermined time intervals. The shorter this predetermined time interval, the more likely it is to improve the productivity of the manufacturing process. However, with conventional technology, it has been difficult to repeatedly confirm the state of raw materials by sensor detection at predetermined time intervals in continuous production.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to solve such problems, and specifically to repeatedly check the state of raw materials by sensor detection at predetermined time intervals in continuous production. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] With this objective in mind, the present invention provides: The raw materials Detained In the container raw materials Due to corruption of Occurred From the container A mechanism is activated to adjust the concentration of the target gas drawn into a measurement area including a gas sensor to a concentration appropriate for measurement, and the target gas is drawn into the measurement area after the mechanism is activated and measured by the gas sensor. death, The mechanism is a mechanism for stirring the target gas in the container. the law of nature, The container is a container with a lid, and the stirring is performed by operating a fan provided on the lid. Re The cover is provided with a suction port for sucking the target gas. The gas concentration measuring method is characterized in that the suction port of the lid is located within a range of the lid that corresponds to the rotation range of the fan when the fan of the lid is activated. Another aspect of the present invention that achieves the above object is to The raw materials Detained In the container raw materials Due to corruption of Occurred From the container This method for determining whether a target gas is normal or abnormal is characterized by activating a mechanism that adjusts the concentration of the target gas sucked into a measurement area including a gas sensor to an appropriate concentration for measurement, sucking the target gas into the measurement area after the mechanism has been activated and measuring it with the gas sensor, and determining whether the raw material is normal or abnormal based on the results of the measurement, wherein the container is a container with a lid, and the lid is provided with an inlet for sucking in the target gas. where: The mechanism may be a mechanism for stirring the target gas in the container. The container may be a container with a lid, and the stirring may be performed by operating a fan provided on the lid. Furthermore, the suction port of the lid may be located within a range of the lid that corresponds to a rotation range of the fan when the fan of the lid is operated. Also, The determination of normality or abnormality of the raw materials is as follows: threshold for the value measurement value By comparing Alternatively, it may be performed by the progression of the measured values ​​over time. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to repeatedly check the state of raw materials by sensor detection at predetermined time intervals in continuous production. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of the overall configuration of a manufacturing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a flow path connection in the main body portion. [Figure 3] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of operation patterns of an on-off valve and a solenoid valve in a flow path connection, where FIG. 10A is a first operation pattern and FIG. 10B is a second operation pattern. [Figure 4] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating examples of operation patterns of an on-off valve and a solenoid valve when a flow path is connected, where (a) is a third operation pattern and (b) is a fourth operation pattern. [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operational flow in a manufacturing process, with (a) to (e) showing the steps. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a container and a lid. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the function of a control device. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing in the control device. [Figure 9] 1 is a graph showing test results of measurements of a manufacturing system, in which the vertical axis represents the sensor measurement value and the horizontal axis represents the measurement time (s) as the elapsed time from the start of the measurement. [Figure 10] 1 is a graph for explaining verification when a gas sensor is used to measure a target gas, where the vertical axis represents the sensor measurement value and the horizontal axis represents the measurement time (s). [Figure 11] 10 is a table for explaining verification when a gas sensor is used to measure a target gas, showing the difference values ​​at the start and end of measurement by the sensor. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. <Example of overall configuration of manufacturing system 1> FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of a manufacturing system 1 according to this embodiment. The manufacturing system 1 shown in Fig. 1 is a system for performing continuous production in a manufacturing process using raw materials, and includes a main body 11. The main body 11 is used, for example, in a manufacturing process that performs continuous production. The main body 11 is an example of a manufacturing device.

[0010] 1, the manufacturing system 1 includes a main body 11, a cleaning gas supply source 12, a regulator 13, a control device 14, a container 16, and a manufacturing line 17. The main body 11 and other components are arranged in a factory 100 indicated by a dashed line. Within the factory 100, the manufacturing system 1 includes piping 21, a communication line 22, and a signal line 23. Each of the main body 11 and the control device 14 is supplied with, for example, commercial power via a power cord (not shown).

[0011] 1, the manufacturing system 1 also includes a monitoring device 18. The monitoring device 18 is placed in a central monitoring room 200 that is located in a different location from the factory 100. In the figure, the area of ​​the central monitoring room 200 is indicated by a dashed line. A worker performs work by operating the monitoring device 18 in the central monitoring room 200. In the factory 100, unmanned operation without workers can be promoted during continuous production.

[0012] The pipe 21 connects the main body 11 and the cleaning gas supply source 12 to each other, and guides cleaning gas (for example, clean air) from the cleaning gas supply source 12 in the direction of arrow A to supply it to the main body 11. The communication line 22 connects the main body 11 and the control device 14 so that they can communicate with each other. A LAN (Local Area Network) cable may be used as the communication line 22. For example, it may be possible to electrically connect to equipment installed in a factory using something like a signal line 23, and change the operation of the factory depending on the sensor results.

[0013] The main body 11 is connected to the above-mentioned piping 21 and also to the above-mentioned communication line 22. The main body 11 is connected to a suction duct 24, which will be described later. Furthermore, various sensors, which will be described later, are arranged in the main body 11, and it functions as the main body of the sensor system.

[0014] The cleaning gas supply source 12 supplies cleaning gas, for example, clean air, through a pipe 21. The air referred to here is air introduced from the atmosphere and does not contain the target gas. An air filter (not shown) may be used to make the air even cleaner than the atmosphere. The cleaning gas referred to here may be compressed air. In such a case, a compressor or the like that generates compressed air may be used as the cleaning gas supply source 12. Alternatively, an air cylinder filled with compressed air may be used instead of a compressor. When the cleaning gas is air, it may be compressed air or steam whose pressure or temperature is changed compared to atmospheric air. The cleaning gas may also be a gas other than air, such as nitrogen. The cleaning gas may be a gas other than the target gas.

[0015] The regulator 13 is disposed at an intermediate position of the pipe 21. The regulator 13 adjusts the flow rate and pressure of the cleaning gas from the cleaning gas supply source 12. The regulator 13 may be configured to include an air filter. Alternatively, a configuration may be adopted in which the control device 14 can acquire the pressure value indicated by the regulator 13. One possible configuration for acquiring the pressure value is for the regulator 13 to send a signal specifying the pressure value to the control device 14. Another possible configuration for acquiring the pressure value is for an image of the display panel of the regulator 13 taken by a camera (not shown) to be sent to the control device 14, and the control device 14 then processes the received image to specify the pressure value.

[0016] As described above, the control device 14 is located in the factory 100 and is remotely controlled by the monitoring device 18 in the central monitoring room 200. The control device 14 can issue predetermined instructions to the main body 11. That is, the control device 14, for example, starts, stops, and changes the settings of the main body 11 in response to instructions from the monitoring device 18. The control device 14 also acquires measurement values ​​of sensors provided in the main body 11 in response to predetermined instructions. The control device 14 is configured to be able to operate in the factory 100 as a sensor PC.

[0017] Furthermore, if the factory equipment can exchange electrical signals, the control device 14 can issue predetermined instructions to the factory's production line 17. For example, the control device 14 transmits control signals instructing the operation of the factory's production line 17. The control device 14 can also send status information indicating the status of the sensors equipped in the control device 14 to the factory's production line 17, and can inform the factory's production line 17 whether the control device 14 is operating correctly. Furthermore, if the factory's production line 17 holds sample information or raw material information (hereinafter referred to as sample information), the control device 14 can acquire this information. The control device 14 can also perform calculations using values ​​based on the type of raw material that can be set in advance to calculate values. This makes it possible to measure multiple raw materials.

[0018] For example, raw materials can be stored inside the container 16. That is, the container 16 has an opening 16a formed at the top end, and raw materials can be put in and taken out through the opening 16a. The container 16 has a mechanism for adjusting the concentration of the target gas generated from the raw materials contained in the container and drawn into the measurement area including the gas sensor to an appropriate concentration for measurement. Possible mechanisms for this purpose include, for example, stirring, changing the temperature, shaking from the outside, changing the position of the suction port, and attaching the lid 16b. These mechanisms may also be combined. When the lid 16b is attached to the container 16, the opening 16a of the container 16 is closed so that the gap is small or no gap exists. The container 16 may be configured with or without the lid 16b.

[0019] The lid 16b is connected to the end of a duct 24 extending from the main body 11. A fan 24a is disposed in the duct 24. The fan 24a functions as a suction unit for drawing air from the container 16 into the main body 11. The fan 24a may be disposed at any position in the duct 24, or may be disposed inside the main body 11.

[0020] A fan 16c is disposed on the inner surface of the lid 16b. The fan 16c functions as an agitator for agitating the air inside the container 16. Therefore, when the fan 16c is operated with the lid 16b attached to the container 16, the air inside the container 16 is agitated. The fan 16c is installed in a direction relative to the raw materials in the container 16 so that the air inside the container 16 is sucked into the duct 24.

[0021] The production line 17 is generally thought to be organized so that products can be manufactured using the raw materials in the containers 16. The production line 17 makes it possible to efficiently manufacture products through a series of assembly lines.

[0022] As described above, the monitoring device 18 is placed in the central monitoring room 200 and remotely controls the control device 14 in the unmanned factory 100. The measurement data obtained by the various sensors in the main body 11 is stored in the control device 14. Additionally, the measurement data may be stored in a server device (not shown) connected via a network, which makes it possible to visualize the measurement data and promote the accumulation and utilization of data.

[0023] It is possible to exchange control signals via an input / output unit mounted on the production line 17 and the control device 14. This simplifies the overall system configuration and improves robustness.

[0024] <Example of flow path connection of main body 11> FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow path connection of the main body 11. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2, the main body 11 includes, in a housing 11K, on-off valves 31a and 31b and solenoid valves 32a and 32b. The on-off valves 31a and 31b are valves that are opened and closed by an actuator such as a motor, and switch the flow path between a state where the fluid flows and a state where the fluid does not flow. The solenoid valves 32a and 32b are a combination of an electromagnet and a valve, and switch the flow path by turning them on and off.

[0025] The main body 11 includes, in a housing 11K, sensors 33a, 33b, 33c, and 33d, and a sensor holder 33e that holds the sensors 33a to 33c. The sensor 33a is a sensor that measures temperature and humidity. By providing the sensor 33a, the measurement results can be corrected. Therefore, the influence of temperature and humidity on the measurement results can be reduced.

[0026] The sensors 33b and 33c are SnO2 (tin dioxide) gas sensors that measure the alcohol concentration in the target gas. The sensor 33d is an EC (Electrical Conductivity) sensor that, like the sensors 33b and 33c, measures the alcohol concentration in the target gas. The sensor 33d is disposed downstream of the sensor holder 33e. The alcohol referred to here is, for example, ethanol. The target gases referred to here are gases generated due to raw materials, such as gases generated due to the decay of raw materials.

[0027] Sensor 33d has high selectivity for the ethanol component. Sensors 33b to 33c can measure ethanol components over a wide concentration range. In this way, the reason why multiple types of sensors are installed in this embodiment is that different sensors can be used depending on the range of ethanol concentrations in the target gas to be measured and the presence of impurity components.

[0028] Here, it is conceivable to use inexpensive gas sensors as the sensors 33b to 33d that can repeatedly measure the alcohol concentration of the target gas, for example, during the continuous production process. Gas sensors used in continuous production processes are suitable for elements that detect the presence or absence of gas by adsorbing gas components onto the surface of the sensor element. Gas sensors may be electrochemical or semiconductor types rather than optical types. The sensors 33b to 33d are sometimes referred to as "gas sensors." The sensors 33b to 33d are an example of gas sensors. In this embodiment, the measurement target of the sensors 33b to 33d is the alcohol concentration, but is not limited to this. For example, the concentration of ammonia or the like may also be considered. In other words, anything that can be measured by a commercially available gas sensor can be used as the measurement target. In this embodiment, a plurality of gas sensors capable of detecting different types of gases are mounted as sensors 33b to 33d so that a plurality of types of raw materials can be measured.

[0029] The main body 11 includes an air filter 34 and a pump 35 inside a housing 11K. The air filter is disposed downstream of the on-off valves 31a and 31b. When the on-off valves 31a and 31b are opened, the fluid flowing through the flow path passes through the air filter .

[0030] Pump 35 is a suction pump for sucking fluid, and is arranged downstream of solenoid valve 32a and sensor 33d. When main body 11 includes pump 35, a modification in which fan 24a (see FIG. 1) in duct 24 is omitted is also conceivable. Also, when duct 24 includes fan 24a (see FIG. 1), a modification in which pump 35 is omitted is also conceivable.

[0031] The main body 11 includes pipes 36a, 36b, and 36c having intersecting portions. The intersecting portions here are defined by joints 37a to 37c, which will be described later. The joints 37a to 37c are T-shaped connection parts that connect the pipes to one another. The pipes 36a to 36c are configured in either a manner in which one upstream pipe branches into two downstream pipes at the intersection, or a manner in which two upstream pipes connect to one downstream pipe. In the latter case, one of the two upstream pipes communicates with the downstream pipe by switching the flow path using on-off valves 31a and 31b or solenoid valve 32a. Pipes 36a, 36b, and 36c having an intersection will be described.

[0032] The pipe 36a has a joint 37a as an intersection, to which one upstream pipe and two downstream pipes are connected. More specifically, joint 37a connects pipe 36a, which serves as the upstream pipe, to pipe 36d, which serves as the downstream pipe. Pipe 36a is connected at its upstream end to intake port 11a formed on the outer surface of housing 11K. Alternatively, joint 37a connects pipe 36e, which serves as the upstream pipe, to pipe 36a, which serves as the downstream pipe. Pipe 36d is connected at its downstream end to on-off valve 31a described above for suction. Pipe 36e is connected at its upstream end to solenoid valve 32b described above for cleaning. The pipe 36a is connected to the above-mentioned duct 24 (see FIG. 1) via the intake port 11a of the housing 11K, thereby supplying the target gas to the pipe 36a.

[0033] The pipe 36b has a joint 37b as an intersection. Two upstream pipes and one downstream pipe are connected to the joint 37b. More specifically, the joint 37b includes the above-mentioned pipe 36b as an upstream pipe, pipe 36f as a downstream pipe, and pipe 36g as an upstream pipe. The upstream end of the pipe 36b is connected to the above-mentioned on-off valve 31a. The downstream end of the pipe 36f is connected to the above-mentioned air filter 34. The upstream end of the pipe 36g is connected to the above-mentioned on-off valve 31b.

[0034] The pipe 36c has a joint 37c as an intersection. Two upstream pipes and one downstream pipe are connected to the joint 37c. More specifically, the joint 37c includes the above-mentioned pipe 36c as an upstream pipe, pipe 36h as a downstream pipe, and pipe 36i as an upstream pipe. The upstream end of the pipe 36c is connected to the above-mentioned sensor 33d. The downstream end of the pipe 36h is connected to the above-mentioned pump 35. The upstream end of the pipe 36i is connected to the above-mentioned solenoid valve 32a.

[0035] The main body 11 includes the pipes 38a to 38f in addition to the pipes 36a to 36c described above. The pipes 38a to 38f will now be described. The pipe 38a is connected at its downstream end to the on-off valve 31b. More specifically, the pipe 38a connects the on-off valve 31b to the intake port 11b formed on the outer surface of the housing 11K. The pipe 38a is connected to the above-mentioned pipe 21 (see FIG. 1) via the intake port 11b of the housing 11K, thereby supplying the cleaning gas to the pipe 38a.

[0036] The pipe 38b connects the air filter 34 and the sensor holder 33e to each other. The pipe 38c connects the sensor holder 33e and the solenoid valve 32a to each other. The pipe 38d connects the solenoid valve 32a to the sensor 33d to each other. The pipe 38e connects the pump 35 and the solenoid valve 32b to each other.

[0037] The pipe 38f is connected to the above-mentioned solenoid valve 32b at its upstream end. More specifically, the pipe 38f connects the above-mentioned solenoid valve 32b to an exhaust port 11c formed on the outer surface of the housing 11K.

[0038] Here, the on-off valves 31a and 31b will be described. The on-off valves 31a and 31b are two-port on-off valves, and can be switched between a state where fluid flows and a state where fluid does not flow by controlling the on / off state of current supply. The on-off valve 31a is connected to a pipe 36d and a pipe 36b, and the on-off valve 31b is connected to a pipe 38a and a pipe 36g.

[0039] When the on-off valve 31a is opened, the fluid in the pipe 36d flows from the pipe 36b to the joint 37b. When the on-off valve 31b is opened, the fluid in the pipe 38a flows from the pipe 36g to the joint 37b. In this embodiment, when the on-off valve 31a is open, the on-off valve 31b is closed. Conversely, when the on-off valve 31b is open, the on-off valve 31a is closed. That is, the on-off valves 31a and 31b are controlled so that either one of them is open or both are closed. There is no state in which both the on-off valves 31a and 31b are open.

[0040] Here, the solenoid valves 32a and 32b will be described. The solenoid valves 32a to 32b are three-port solenoid valves having ports A, P, and R. By controlling the power supply ON / OFF, it is possible to switch between a case where the A port communicates with the P port and a case where the A port communicates with the R port. In solenoid valve 32a, the A port is connected to pipe 38c, the P port is connected to pipe 38d, and the R port is connected to pipe 36i. In solenoid valve 32b, the A port is connected to pipe 38e, the P port is connected to pipe 36e, and the R port is connected to pipe 38f.

[0041] More specifically, when the solenoid valve 32a is energized, the A port and the P port are connected to each other, causing the fluid in the pipe 38c to flow through the pipe 38d and toward the joint 37c via the sensor 33d and the pipe 36c. When the power supply is turned off, the A port is connected to the R port, so that the fluid in the pipe 38c flows into the pipe 36i and toward the joint 37c.

[0042] When the solenoid valve 32b is energized, the A port and the P port are connected to each other, so that the fluid in the pipe 38e flows through the pipe 36e toward the joint 37a. When the power supply is turned off, the A port is connected to the R port, so that the fluid in the pipe 38e flows to the pipe 38f and is exhausted from the exhaust port 11c.

[0043] <Example of operation pattern of main body part 11> 3 and 4 are diagrams illustrating examples of operation patterns of the on-off valves 31a and 31b and the solenoid valves 32a and 32b in the flow path connection, with FIG. 3(a) showing the first operation pattern, FIG. 3(b) showing the second operation pattern, FIG. 4(a) showing the third operation pattern, and FIG. 4(b) showing the fourth operation pattern. The first and second operation patterns are performed when measuring the target gas and can be called measurement lines. The third and fourth operation patterns are performed when cleaning after measurement and can be called cleaning lines. 3 and 4 correspond to FIG. 2 described above and use the same reference numerals.

[0044] 3(a), (b) and 4(a) show a case where a target gas as a fluid is supplied to the intake port 11a of the main body 11, and a cleaning gas as a fluid is supplied to the intake port 11b. FIG. 4(b) shows a case where a cleaning gas is supplied to the intake ports 11a and 11b of the main body 11. The target gas to be supplied is sucked in by the operation of the pump 35 .

[0045] <First Operation Pattern and Second Operation Pattern> In both the first and second operation patterns shown in FIGS. 3(a) and 3(b), the on-off valve 31a is energized, the on-off valve 31b is energized, and the solenoid valve 32b is energized. The first operation pattern and the second operation pattern differ in whether the solenoid valve 32a is energized or not. Specifically, in the first operation pattern, the solenoid valve 32a is energized ON, whereas in the second operation pattern, the solenoid valve 32a is energized OFF.

[0046] 3(a), the on-off valve 31a is in an open state, and the target gas is supplied from the intake port 11a to the inside of the main body 11. Note that, in the first operation pattern, the on-off valve 31b is in a closed state, and therefore the cleaning gas is not supplied to the inside of the main body 11.

[0047] In the first operation pattern, the target gas follows the following flow path under the control of the on-off valves 31a and 31b and the solenoid valves 32a and 32b. That is, in the first operation pattern, the target gas passes through pipes 36a, 36d, 36b, 36f, and 38b toward sensor holder 33e. As a result, the target gas is measured by sensors 33a to 33c. The target gas flows through a flow path that runs from the sensor holder 33e through the pipe 38c.

[0048] Furthermore, in the first operation pattern, solenoid valve 32a is energized, so that port A and port P are connected. Therefore, the target gas flows toward sensor 33d through pipe 38d connected to port P of solenoid valve 32a. The target gas then flows through pipes 36c, 36h, 38e, and 38f and is exhausted from exhaust port 11c.

[0049] Since the target gas is sucked by the pump 35 and passes through the pipe 36a, etc., by directing the flow of the target gas to the sensors 33a to 33d, it becomes possible to measure with higher sensitivity. Additionally, in this embodiment, the pump 35 is provided at a position close to the exhaust port 11c, but this is not limiting.

[0050] 3(b), the path from the pipe 38c to the A port of the solenoid valve 32a is the same as in the first operation pattern described above. Also, in the second operation pattern, as in the first operation pattern, the on-off valve 31b is closed, and therefore the cleaning gas is not supplied to the inside of the main body 11.

[0051] In the second operation pattern, the solenoid valve 32a is turned off, so that the A port and the R port are connected. Therefore, in the second operation pattern, the route is different from that in the first operation pattern. That is, the target gas passes through the pipe 36i connected to the R port of the solenoid valve 32a, then passes through the pipes 36h, 38e, and 38f, and is exhausted from the exhaust port 11c.

[0052] As described above, in the first operation pattern, the target gas is sent to the sensor 33d, and therefore the target gas is measured by the sensor 33d, whereas in the second operation pattern, the target gas is not sent to the sensor 33d, and therefore the target gas is not measured by the sensor 33d. As described above, the switching between the first and second operation patterns is achieved by controlling the solenoid valve 32a to be energized (from port A to port P) and to be energized (from port A to port R).

[0053] 3(a) and 3(b) (multiple times), the time during which the target gas is sent to the sensor 33d is limited, and early deterioration of the sensor 33d can be prevented. The predetermined timing here may be, for example, at regular intervals, i.e., switching to the second movement pattern after a certain time has elapsed since switching to the first movement pattern, and switching back to the first movement pattern after a certain time has elapsed since switching to the second movement pattern.

[0054] <Third movement pattern> The third operation pattern shown in FIG. 4(a) will be described. In the third operation pattern, the on-off valve 31a is de-energized, the on-off valve 31b is energized, the solenoid valve 32a is energized, and the solenoid valve 32b is energized off. That is, in the third operation pattern, the solenoid valves 32a and 32b are the same as in the first operation pattern described above, but the on-off states of the on-off valves 31a and 31b are reversed.

[0055] Therefore, the supplied cleaning gas passes through pipes 38a, 36g, 36f, 38b, 38c, 38d, 36c, 36h, 38e, and 38f and is exhausted from exhaust port 11c. That is, in the third operation pattern, the gas passes through the target gas flow path in the first operation pattern. This allows the target gas remaining in the flow path to be expelled from the flow path and the target gas flow path to be cleaned. This allows the flow path of main body 11 to be returned to a clean state by the cleaning gas.

[0056] Furthermore, since the cleaning gas passes through the sensors 33a to 33d in the third operation pattern, the sensors 33a to 33d can be cleaned after the target gas is measured. Furthermore, by measuring the cleaning gas with the sensors 33a to 33d in the third operation pattern, it can be confirmed that the state has returned to that before the target gas was measured. It is possible to calibrate the sensors 33a to 33d by periodically flowing the calibration gas through the sensors 33a to 33d in the first operation pattern or the third operation pattern.

[0057] In this way, by switching from the first or second operation pattern to the third operation pattern at the timing after the target gas is measured, it is possible to return the flow path and sensors 33a to 33d to the state before the target gas is measured. In the third operation pattern described above, the electromagnetic valve 32a is always kept ON to ensure time for the cleaning gas to clean the sensor 33d, but this is not limiting. That is, it is conceivable to clean the pipe 36i by providing a period during which the electromagnetic valve 32a is turned OFF.

[0058] <Fourth movement pattern> The fourth operation pattern shown in FIG. 4(b) will be described. The fourth operation pattern is performed after the third operation pattern described above. In the fourth operation pattern, the on-off valve 31a is de-energized, the on-off valve 31b is energized, the solenoid valve 32a is energized, and the solenoid valve 32b is energized. That is, in the fourth operation pattern, the on-off valves 31a and 31b and the solenoid valve 32a are the same as in the third operation pattern described above, but the on / off state of the solenoid valve 32b is reversed.

[0059] Therefore, the supplied cleaning gas flows from port A to port P by solenoid valve 32b, and then flows through pipe 36e connected to port P. That is, in the fourth operation pattern, the cleaning gas supplied from intake port 11b is exhausted from intake port 11a, not from exhaust port 11c.

[0060] As a result, the fourth operation pattern can clean the pipe 36a, which cannot be cleaned by the third operation pattern. In addition, the cleaning gas exhausted from the intake port 11a can clean the upstream flow path connected to the pipe 36a. Note that sensor cleaning is also performed in the fourth operation pattern, i.e., during cleaning, sensor cleaning is performed in both the third operation pattern and the fourth operation pattern.

[0061] The upstream flow path here refers to the flow path through which the target gas flows during measurement in the first and second operation patterns described above. The upstream flow path is an external flow path, such as a tube, located outside the main body 11.

[0062] The external flow path is a flow path that connects the main body 11 to the lid 16b (see FIG. 1) of the container 16. The external flow path includes a duct 24 (see FIG. 1) on the target gas source (container 16) side. Even if the external flow path is several meters long, cleaning can be performed by the pressure of the cleaning gas.

[0063] Here, the third operation pattern shown in FIG. 4(a) and the fourth operation pattern shown in FIG. 4(b) will be described in more detail. In the third operation pattern, the target gas passes through at least a part (pipes 36f, 38b, and 38c) of the path (pipes 36a, 36d, 36b, 36f, 38b, and 38c) that leads to sensors 33a to 33d in the first or second operation pattern (FIG. 3). The fourth operation pattern also has the same configuration as the third operation pattern.

[0064] In the third operation pattern, the cleaning gas is guided to sensors 33a to 33c through pipes 38a, 36g, 36f, and 38b, and is also guided to sensor 33d through pipe 38c. Note that pipe 36f, into which the cleaning gas flows, is located upstream of sensors 33a to 33d. In the fourth operation pattern, the cleaning gas that has passed through the sensors 33a to 33d is guided by the pipe 36e to the pipe 36a, which is located further upstream than the pipe 36f. The cleaning of the sensors 33a to 33d with the cleaning gas is performed in both the third operation pattern and the fourth operation pattern. The third operation pattern is an example of the first aspect, and the fourth operation pattern is an example of the second aspect.

[0065] As described above, the first operation pattern (see FIG. 3(a)) and the second operation pattern (see FIG. 3(b)) are repeated during the measurement time to prevent deterioration of the sensor 33d. Then, during the subsequent cleaning time, the time is divided into two, with the third operation pattern performed once and the fourth operation pattern performed once. This allows the entire flow path and the inlet nozzle to be cleaned. The above-described repetition is repeated during the subsequent measurement time. In addition, in addition to the case where one measurement is performed followed by one cleaning, examples are also conceivable, such as two measurements followed by one cleaning. The combination of the number of measurements and cleanings is not limited to this.

[0066] <Example of operation flow of manufacturing system 1> FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operational flow in a manufacturing process, showing the steps in the order of (a) to (e). The diagram shows one measurement that is repeatedly performed in the manufacturing process. In each of (a) to (e) in the diagram, a general valve symbol is shown overlapping the above-mentioned pipe 21 and duct 24 (see FIG. 1). This indicates whether the pipe 21 and duct 24 are in an open state where a fluid can flow or a closed state where a fluid cannot flow.

[0067] 5(a), cleaning is performed in preparation for the next measurement after the previous measurement has been performed in the main body 11. Such cleaning is performed before the next measurement or after the previous measurement. The cleaning in the first stage is performed by the third operation pattern shown in Fig. 4(a) described above. That is, in the first stage, the pipe 21 is in an open state and cleaning gas for cleaning flows through the pipe 21, while the duct 24 is in a closed state and no target gas flows through the duct 24. It is to be noted that the cleaning in the first stage may include not only the third operation pattern shown in FIG. 4(a) but also the fourth operation pattern shown in FIG. 4(b), depending on the timing.

[0068] In the second stage shown in Figure 5(b), the raw material is transferred from the box 40 to the container 16, and further, if the container 16 has a lid, the lid 16b is brought close to the container 16. As a result, a flow path is formed from the lid 16b through the duct 24 to the piping 36a in the main body 11. This flow path is connected to the measurement line of the main body 11 (see the first and second operation patterns in Figures 3(a) and 3(b)). In this way, the raw material in the container 16 can be brought close to the measurement line, which allows the target gas to be supplied to the measurement area of ​​the sensor 33a etc. (see FIG. 2).

[0069] In this embodiment, the raw materials are contained in a box 40 as shown in Fig. 5(a) and are transferred to a container 16 as shown in Fig. 5(b), but this is not limiting. The raw materials may be contained in a general packaging box such as a cardboard box, or in a plastic container. The raw materials may also be contained in the container 16 from the beginning.

[0070] To explain further, in the second stage, cleaning is performed in preparation for the next measurement, just like in the first stage. Note that depending on the timing, cleaning in the second stage may include not only the fourth operation pattern shown in Figure 4(b) but also the third operation pattern shown in Figure 4(a).

[0071] 5(c), the pipe 21 is closed and no cleaning gas flows through the pipe 21, while the duct 24 is open and the target gas from the raw material in the container 16 flows through the duct 24. In the third stage, cleaning with the cleaning gas is completed and measurement of the target gas supplied to the main body 11 is started. The target gas is supplied from the container 16 to the main body 11 by suction using a pump 35 (see FIG. 2) and by a fan 24a (see FIG. 1) in the duct 24. It is also possible to supply the target gas by either the pump 35 (see FIG. 2) or the fan 24a (see FIG. 1) alone.

[0072] 3(a) and 3(b), the measurement in the third stage is performed according to the first and second operation patterns shown in Fig. 3(a) and 3(b). That is, by switching the flow path by the solenoid valve 32a during measurement of the target gas, the time during which the target gas is sent to the sensor 33d is limited as described above.

[0073] Thereafter, control is started in the main body 11. The following will explain. First, when an electrical signal (I / O) is received from the control device 14 (see FIG. 1), the control device 14 (see FIG. 1) holds the initial values ​​of the sensors 33a to 33d. The suction for a first specified time, for example, a seconds, is switched to the measurement line, and measurement by the sensors 33a to 33d is started.

[0074] The values ​​of the sensors 33a to 33d when a second specified time, for example b seconds, has elapsed after the start of measurement are sent to the control device 14 (see FIG. 1). The control device 14 subtracts a previously stored initial value from the acquired value for b seconds and stores the result as measurement data together with information such as the time. For example, the control device 14 overwrites or appends multiple measurement data to a comma-separated CSV (Comma Separated Values) file.

[0075] The control device 14 also compares the measurement data of the CSV with the threshold value of the measurement sample to determine the judgment result. That is, when the measurement data is compared numerically with the threshold value, if the measurement data does not exceed the threshold value, it is judged as OK, and otherwise it is judged as NG. When the control device 14 has completed this determination, it stores the determination result, thereby completing the third stage and moving on to the fourth stage. The threshold value used here is a value determined in advance depending on the type of raw material, making it possible to detect spoilage for multiple types of raw materials. The control device 14 can transmit the completion of the measurement and the determination result to the production line 17 by an electrical signal (I / O).

[0076] 5(d), the lid 16b is removed from the container 16, and the measurement line is returned to its original position. After the measurement is completed, cleaning is performed. In the fourth stage, the duct 24 is closed. In the fourth stage, the pipe 21 is in an open state, and cleaning gas flows through the pipe 21. The cleaning gas in the pipe 21 is supplied to the pipe 38a (see FIG. 2) inside the main body 11. As a result, cleaning of the sensor 33a, etc. (see FIG. 2) is performed at a timing following the measurement performed in the third stage. That is, cleaning gas is sprayed onto the sensor 33a, etc. to clean the elements. Cleaning of the elements is performed in the cleaning line according to the third operation pattern shown in FIG. 4(a). This is switching from the measurement line to the cleaning line. In the fourth stage, cleaning of the element using the third operation pattern involves flowing cleaning gas into the measurement line through which the target gas had been flowing for a third specified time, for example, c seconds, replacing the target gas with cleaning gas.

[0077] Cleaning with cleaning gas is also performed in the fifth stage shown in Figure 5(e). Cleaning in the fifth stage is performed using the fourth operation pattern shown in Figure 4(b). Therefore, in the fifth stage, cleaning gas passes from the intake port 11a (see Figure 4(b)) of the housing 11K through the duct 24 and is discharged from the suction nozzle or suction port (see reference numeral 16d in Figure 6) of the lid 16b (see Figure 1). This cleans the duct 24, which is the uncleaned portion that was not cleaned in the fourth stage. The suction flow path of the target gas can also be cleaned. Thus, in the fifth stage, cleaning of the duct 24 (see FIG. 1) is carried out. In the fifth stage, cleaning of the duct 24 using the fourth operation pattern involves flowing cleaning gas for a fourth specified time, for example, d seconds, or until the cleaning gas falls below a preset threshold value.

[0078] Here, we will explain an example of time allocation in the takt time, which is the time taken for cleaning and measurement in one container 16. If the takt time is 2 minutes, measurement is performed in 1 minute (first operation pattern and second operation pattern), sensor cleaning (third operation pattern) is performed in 40 seconds, and uncleaned pipes are cleaned in the remaining 20 seconds. In this example, the total time of the above-mentioned a seconds and b seconds is 1 minute, which can be referred to as the measurement time. Also, the above-mentioned c seconds is 40 seconds, and the above-mentioned d seconds is 20 seconds. The total time of the above-mentioned c seconds and d seconds is 1 minute, which can be referred to as the cleaning time. In the example described above, the measurement time and cleaning time are both one minute, which means they are the same length. However, the measurement time and cleaning time are not limited to being the same length. In other words, the measurement time and cleaning time may be different. This includes cases where the measurement time is longer than the cleaning time and cases where the measurement time is shorter than the cleaning time. In the takt time, the time other than the time for measurement is always allocated to cleaning. The above-mentioned a, b, c, and d seconds can be changed depending on, for example, the type of target gas, etc. In other words, the time for sending the target gas to the gas sensor and the time for sending the cleaning gas to the gas sensor can be changed.

[0079] If the result of the judgment made by comparing the measurement data with the threshold is OK, for example, the result may be communicated to the production line 17, and the production line 17 may stop the line temporarily. This determination is made based on the alcohol concentration of the target gas generated from the raw material to determine whether the raw material can be used. Products produced using such raw materials include, but are not limited to, foods and beverages, and can also include, for example, cosmetics.

[0080] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating the container 16 and the lid 16b. As shown in Fig. 6, a lid 16b is attached to cover the opening 16a of the container 16. The fan 16c described above is attached to the back side of the lid 16b. The lid 16b is also provided with the suction port 16d described above, which is connected to the duct 24. The suction port 16d is a portion that draws in the target gas inside the container 16. The suction port 16d shown in Fig. 6 can be understood to have a shape similar to the lid of the container 16. The container 16 with the lid 16b attached is an example of a container.

[0081] The container 16 contains raw material G. The raw material G is, for example, food. In this embodiment, the amount of raw material G may vary. Here, it is assumed that the container is only about half full. In this case, it is assumed that the target gas generated from the raw material G is sucked in through the suction port 16d of the lid 16b. When the container 16 is covered with the lid 16b, it is difficult for air to flow inside the container 16. If there is no or little air flow inside the container 16, the target gas will be concentrated at the bottom inside the container 16, making it difficult to suck the target gas through the suction port 16d.

[0082] However, in this embodiment, fan 16c is attached to the back side of lid 16b. When fan 16c is operated, an air flow is generated in the vertical direction as shown by the arrows in FIG. 6, stirring the air inside container 16. This stirring action causes convection, which makes it possible to homogenize the distribution of the target gas inside container 16. This makes it possible to homogenize the concentration of the target gas inside container 16. In other words, it becomes possible to reduce the difference between the concentration of the target gas sucked in through suction port 16d and the concentration of the target gas near raw material G. In this way, even if the amount of raw material G relative to the volume of the container 16 is small, it is possible to quickly aspirate the target gas in the container 16 at the required concentration. This enables continuous measurement with a short takt time, and allows repeated measurements even during a continuous production process. The target gas to be measured can be efficiently sucked in through the suction port 16d. Fan 16c is an example of a fan located within the container.

[0083] It is possible to operate the fan 16c before the target gas is drawn in. That is, it is possible to control the fan 16c so that, after the time required for the concentration of the target gas to be uniform has elapsed since the fan 16c was operated, the operation of the fan 16c is stopped and the target gas is drawn in. Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to this, and it is also possible to control the fan 16c so that it sucks in the target gas without stopping its operation.

[0084] In this embodiment, the air in the container 16 is agitated by operating the fan 16c to homogenize the concentration of the target gas in the container 16, but the agitation means is not limited to this. For example, it is also possible to homogenize the concentration by vibrating the container 16 or by using thermal convection caused by changing the temperature. Also, other means may be considered besides agitating the air in the container 16. For example, in a modified example, the target gas for the raw material G is sucked in at an optimal position by using a tube (not shown) that changes the distance from the suction port 16d to the raw material G when sucking in the target gas.

[0085] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating the function of the control device 14. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, the control device 14 includes a timing unit 51, a suction control unit 52, a measurement control unit 53, a cleaning control unit 54, and a transmission unit 55. The timing unit 51 measures the time that has elapsed since the start of measurement. The suction control unit 52 controls the operation of the pump 35 (see FIG. 2) of the main body 11 when the target gas is sucked and when the cleaning gas is sucked. The suction control unit 52 also controls the operation of the fan 24a of the duct 24 (see FIG. 1).

[0086] The measurement control unit 53 controls the execution of the first and second operation patterns, which are the measurement lines. The measurement control unit 53 also acquires measurement data and makes a determination based on the data. The cleaning control unit 54 controls the execution of the third and fourth operation patterns, which are cleaning lines. The transmitting unit 55 transmits at least one of the measurement data and the determination result to a server device (not shown) via a network. The transmitting unit 55 also transmits at least one of the measurement data and the determination result to the monitoring device 18 (see FIG. 1).

[0087] FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of processing in the control device 14. 8, the suction of the target gas is started by the suction control unit 52 (step 101). The suction of the target gas is performed by the suction control unit 52 (see FIG. 7) of the control device 14 operating the pump 35 (see FIG. 2).

[0088] The concentration of the aspirated target gas is measured for a predetermined time (step 102). Specifically, the measurement control unit 53 (see FIG. 7) acquires the detection results of the sensors 33a to 33d (see FIG. 2). This measurement is performed by switching between a first operation pattern (see FIG. 3(a)) for aspirating the target gas and a second operation pattern (see FIG. 3(b)). The predetermined time here is an example of a predetermined first time.

[0089] Then, the measurement control unit 53 (see FIG. 7) determines whether the target gas is OK or NG based on the acquired detection result (step 103). This determination is made by numerically comparing the detection result with a threshold value according to the type of target gas. More specifically, if the target gas does not exceed the threshold value, it is determined to be OK, and otherwise it is determined to be NG. Alternatively, a pass / fail judgment may be made based on the change in the measured value over time. In other words, this is an example of making a judgment based on the slope of the concentration change. If the slope of the concentration change is steep, a fail judgment may be made, and if the slope of the concentration change is shallow, a pass / fail judgment may be made.

[0090] The determination result is stored in a server device (not shown) connected via a network. The determination result may also be transmitted to the monitoring device 18 (see FIG. 1) by a transmitting unit 55 (see FIG. 7) of the control device 14. In addition, a modified example is conceivable in which the monitoring device 18 displays the determination result and notifies the user. Furthermore, it is also conceivable that the control device 14 may hold the determination result together with or instead of transmitting it to the monitoring device 18 (see FIG. 1).

[0091] After the measurement is completed, cleaning with the cleaning gas is started. That is, cleaning control is performed by the cleaning control section 54 (see FIG. 7) of the control device 14. This will be specifically described below. The sensor is cleaned in the third operation pattern (see FIG. 4(a)) (step 104). Then, in the fourth operation pattern (see FIG. 4(b)), pipes and the like that cannot be cleaned in the third operation pattern are cleaned (step 105). In the fourth operation pattern, as described above, the duct 24 (see FIG. 2) is also cleaned.

[0092] Then, the control device 14 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed using the timer unit 51 (see FIG. 7) (step 106). If the predetermined time has not elapsed (No in step 106), the process returns to step 104, and if the predetermined time has elapsed (Yes in step 106), the process proceeds to step 107. This makes it possible to execute a continuous production process within the takt time. Instead of the time, the determination may be made based on whether the time is below a predetermined threshold. The predetermined time here is an example of a second predetermined time.

[0093] For example, if the takt time is 2 minutes, the cleaning using the third operation pattern is 40 seconds, and the cleaning using the fourth operation pattern is 20 seconds, then one 40-second cleaning using the third operation pattern and one 20-second cleaning using the fourth operation pattern are performed. However, this is not limited to this. For example, the 40-second cleaning in the third operation pattern may be divided into five times, and the 20-second cleaning in the fourth operation pattern may be divided into five times. In such a case, the cleaning in step 104 described above lasts for 8 seconds each, and the cleaning in step 105 described above lasts for 4 seconds each. When cleaning, switching between the third operation pattern and the fourth operation pattern is repeated multiple times, and then the target gas is aspirated and measurement is started.

[0094] In step 107, it is determined whether or not the measurement is to be ended. If the measurement is to be ended (Yes in step 107), the series of processes ends. If the measurement is not to be ended (No in step 107), the process returns to step 101.

[0095] Here, the target gas may be sucked in after switching between the third operation pattern (see FIG. 4(a)) and the fourth operation pattern (see FIG. 4(b)) once to clean with a cleaning gas, or after switching multiple times to clean with a cleaning gas. In the former case, cleaning is performed using either the third operation pattern or the fourth operation pattern, then switching is performed once to clean with the other, and then the target gas is sucked in. Such switching may be performed multiple times.

[0096] Furthermore, the predetermined time for measurement in step 102 and the predetermined time for cleaning in step 106 may be the same or may be different from each other. That is, the two can be set individually.

[0097] 9 is a graph showing the test results of measurements taken by the manufacturing system 1. The vertical axis represents the sensor measurement value, and the horizontal axis represents the measurement time (s) elapsed from the start of the measurement. The solid line A1 represents the case of air. The dashed line B1 represents the case of target gas C1, and the dotted line B2 represents the case of target gas C2.

[0098] The air used is fresh air, the same as the air used as the cleaning gas. Target gas C1 is the gas generated when raw material G (see Figure 6) begins to decay. Target gas C2 is the gas generated when raw material G (see the same figure) has decayed further to the point where it is no longer edible. In the measurement test, the target gases C1 and C2 are sucked into a container 16 (see FIG. 6) that is about half filled with raw material G while being forcibly stirred by a fan 16c.

[0099] Line A1 shown in Fig. 9 is a curve that slopes upward to the right. That is, as shown by line A1, in the case of air, the sensor measurement value rises smoothly over time. Line B1 has a generally straight line sloping upward to the right, a descending line that alternately rises and falls, and then a generally horizontal line. Line B2 has a generally straight line sloping upward to the right that is steeper than line B1, a descending line, and a generally horizontal line. Lines B1 and B2 show faster increases in sensor measurement values ​​than line A1.

[0100] To explain further, as shown in Figure 9, at the 120 second point indicated by the dashed vertical line, the difference between line A1 and lines B1 and B2 is significant, making it possible to detect target gases C1 and C2.

[0101] Figures 10 and 11 are used to explain the verification when a gas sensor is used to measure a target gas. Figure 10 is a graph showing the sensor measurement value on the vertical axis and the measurement time (s) on the horizontal axis. Figure 11 is a table showing the difference values ​​at the start and end of the sensor measurement. As shown in Figure 10, air was measured multiple times, followed by measurement of target gas C1. More specifically, for air, a series of operations consisting of measurement using the first and second operation patterns and cleaning using the third and fourth operation patterns was performed six times. Then, for target gas C1, a series of operations consisting of measurement using the first and second operation patterns and cleaning using the third and fourth operation patterns was performed once. The takt time was 2 minutes (120 seconds).

[0102] In FIG. 10, the first to sixth measurement results for air are shown as line A3, and the first measurement result for target gas C1 is shown as line B3. Measurements using the sensor were performed not only for the first and second operation patterns, which measure the target gas, but also for the third and fourth operation patterns, which clean with air. For this reason, line A3 continues from 0 to 720 seconds of measurement time, and line B3 continues from line A3 and extends from 720 to 840 seconds. Even in the third and fourth operation patterns, it is possible to determine whether the sensor is normal or abnormal by performing sensor measurements. Furthermore, if the sensor deteriorates, it is possible to restore detection accuracy by correcting the threshold value using calibration gas, thereby extending the life of the system.

[0103] As shown in Figure 10, line A3 is not stable when the measurement time is 0 to 120 seconds (first air) and 120 to 240 seconds (second air). However, as the number of airs increases, line A3 becomes stable when the elapsed time is 240 to 360 seconds (third air), 360 to 480 seconds (fourth air), 480 to 600 seconds (fifth air), and 600 to 720 seconds (sixth air).

[0104] Thereafter, line B3 shown from 720 to 840 seconds (target gas C1, first time) shows a change that is different from line A3.

[0105] The above-mentioned "Air 1st Time" to "Air 6th Time" and "Target Gas C1, 1st Time" are listed vertically from top to bottom in Fig. 11. Also, for each, the "difference value between the start and end of measurement by the sensor" is listed. While the difference values ​​for "Air 1st Time" to "Air 6th Time" are less than 1, the difference value for "Target Gas C1, 1st Time" is 1 or more. Therefore, by setting a threshold for such difference value, it is possible to detect the target gas. Then, by setting the threshold for target gas C1 to, for example, 1.00, it is possible to measure the target gas.

[0106] In the present embodiment described above, for example, a gas concentration measurement method is implemented in which the target gas is aspirated for one minute out of a two-minute takt time, the concentration of the aspirated target gas is measured by sensors 33b to 33d (see, for example, Figure 2), and the sensors 33b to 33d are cleaned with cleaning gas for one minute after the measurement. In addition, in this embodiment, a method for measuring gas concentration is implemented in which a mechanism is activated to adjust the target gas generated from raw material G (see, for example, Figure 6) contained in container 16 and sucked into a measurement area including sensors 33b to 33d to a concentration appropriate for measurement, and the target gas after this mechanism is activated is sucked into the measurement area and measured by sensors 33b to 33d. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the normal / abnormal determination direction is implemented to determine whether the raw material is normal or abnormal based on the results of measurement using the gas concentration measurement method described above.

[0107] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to determine whether the raw materials are normal or abnormal based on the results of measuring the target gas. Furthermore, in continuous production, the state of the raw materials can be repeatedly checked by sensor detection at predetermined time intervals.

[0108] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, by repeatedly measuring the concentration of alcohol, which is an example of a target gas, and cleaning the gas sensor with a cleaning gas in a short period of time, it is possible to accommodate a continuous production process with a short takt time. In other words, one measurement operation is followed by one cleaning operation, and this is repeated.

[0109] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope of the above-described embodiments. It is clear from the claims that various modifications and improvements to the above-described embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0110] 1... manufacturing system, 11... main body, 14... control device, 16... container, 16b... lid, 16c... fan, 24a... fan, 31a, 31b... on-off valve, 32a, 32b... solenoid valve, 33a to 33d... sensor, 51... timing unit, 52... suction control unit, 53... measurement control unit, 54... cleaning control unit

Claims

1. A mechanism is operated to adjust the concentration of a target gas generated by spoilage of a raw material in a container containing the raw material and drawn into a measurement area including a gas sensor from the container to an appropriate concentration for measurement, After the mechanism is activated, the target gas is drawn into the measurement area and measured by the gas sensor; the mechanism is a mechanism for stirring the target gas in the container, The container is a container with a lid, The stirring is performed by operating a fan provided on the lid, the lid is provided with a suction port for sucking the target gas, the suction port of the lid is located within a range of the lid that corresponds to a rotation range of the fan when the fan of the lid is activated; A method for measuring a gas concentration.

2. Activating a mechanism for adjusting the concentration of a target gas generated by spoilage of a raw material in a container containing the raw material and drawn into a measurement area including a gas sensor from the container to an appropriate concentration for measurement, After the mechanism is activated, the target gas is drawn into the measurement area and measured by the gas sensor; Determine whether the raw material is normal or abnormal based on the results of the measurement; The container is a container with a lid, The lid is provided with a suction port for sucking the target gas. A method for determining whether something is normal or abnormal.

3. The mechanism is a mechanism for stirring the target gas in the container.

3. The normal / abnormal determination method according to claim 2.

4. The container is a container with a lid, The stirring is performed by operating a fan provided on the lid.

4. The normal / abnormal determination method according to claim 3.

5. The suction port of the lid is located within a range of the lid that corresponds to the rotation range of the fan when the fan of the lid is activated.

5. The normal / abnormal determination method according to claim 4.

6. The determination of normality or abnormality of the raw material is made by comparing the measured value with a threshold value or by the transition of the measured value over time.

3. The normal / abnormal determination method according to claim 2.

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