Control device for managing vacuum evaporation water generators

Abstract

A management device 100 manages a vacuum vaporization-type fresh water generation device 1 producing fresh water from seawater, and comprises: an operating condition acquisition unit 110 that acquires information relating to an operating condition of the vacuum vaporization-type fresh water generation device 1; and an abnormality detection unit 120 that detects an abnormality in the vacuum vaporization-type fresh water generation device 1 on the basis of the information acquired by the operating condition acquisition unit 110.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a management device, a management method, and a management program for managing a vacuum evaporation type fresh water production system that produces fresh water from seawater. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, marine vessels have used vacuum evaporation freshwater generators to produce freshwater by evaporating seawater pumped from the ocean under a high vacuum. Vacuum evaporation freshwater generators that utilize steam from a boiler installed on the vessel or waste heat from a diesel engine or other source as a heat source are widely used (see, for example, Patent Document 1). This type of vacuum evaporation freshwater generator generally includes a heater that heats and evaporates supplied raw seawater by heat exchange with hot water used for cooling the diesel engine, and a sealed vessel body whose interior is maintained under reduced pressure (vacuum) by a pressure reducing means and condenses the generated steam to produce freshwater. A condenser with multiple heat transfer tubes is built into the vessel body, and the steam is cooled and condensed by heat exchange with cooling seawater flowing inside the heat transfer tubes to produce freshwater. A portion of the cooling seawater discharged from the condenser is supplied to the heater as raw seawater. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 62-43692 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Currently, operation adjustments of vacuum evaporation water makers are performed by ship crew members, and troubleshooting is also performed by the crew members themselves based on the vacuum evaporation water maker's instruction manual. However, in recent years, due to the trend toward reducing the number of people in the engine room and the decline in crew skills, crew members are unable to solve problems on their own, and are frequently receiving simple questions from outside the ship (for example, the support desk of the equipment manufacturer).

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to assist in solving problems relating to vacuum evaporation type fresh water generators. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The above object of the present invention is achieved by a management device that manages a vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator that produces fresh water from seawater, the management device including: an operating status acquisition unit that acquires information regarding the operating status of the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator; and an abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality in the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator based on the information acquired by the operating status acquisition unit.

[0007] In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator further includes a control unit that, when the abnormality is detected, controls the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator so as to resolve the abnormality.

[0008] In a preferred aspect of the present invention, the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator further comprises a presentation unit that, when the abnormality is detected, presents a method for resolving the abnormality to a user of the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator.

[0009] In this embodiment, the abnormality may be a shortage of the amount of freshwater produced.

[0010] In this embodiment, the abnormality may be excessive salinity of the freshwater.

[0011] In this embodiment, the abnormality may be the adhesion of scale contained in the seawater to the inside of the vacuum evaporation type freshwater generator.

[0012] In this embodiment, the abnormality may be a shortage of the amount of fresh water produced due to a shortage of the heating capacity of the heater.

[0013] In the above embodiment, the vacuum evaporation type fresh water production system may include a heater that generates steam by heating raw seawater with jacket cooling water that cools an internal combustion engine of a ship, and a condenser that cools the steam generated in the heater with cooling seawater to produce fresh water.

[0014] In this embodiment, when the cause of the abnormality is a shortage of the jacket cooling water, the control unit preferably controls the amount of water to be increased or notifies the user of this.

[0015] In this embodiment, if the cause of the abnormality is that the temperature of the jacket cooling water is lower than a specified value, it is preferable that the presentation unit presents a suggestion to the user to raise the temperature to above the specified value.

[0016] In this embodiment, if the cause of the abnormality is contamination of the heater by the jacket cooling water or adhesion of scale contained in the seawater to the heater, it is preferable that the presentation unit presents a suggestion to the user to clean the hot water supply line or to perform an operation to suppress the adhesion of the scale.

[0017] In this embodiment, the abnormality may be a shortage of the amount of fresh water produced due to a shortage of the cooling capacity of the condenser.

[0018] In this embodiment, if the secondary cause of the abnormality is a shortage of the supply of cooling seawater to the vacuum evaporation type freshwater production system, it is preferable that the control unit controls or notifies the user to increase the supply of cooling seawater.

[0019] In this embodiment, the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator comprises: A condenser having a plurality of heat transfer tubes therein and cooling the steam supplied into the condenser to generate fresh water. Furthermore, When the cause of the abnormality is dirt inside the heat transfer tube or adhesion of scale contained in the seawater to the heat transfer tube, It is preferable that the prompting unit prompts the user to clean the heat transfer tube.

[0020] In this embodiment, the abnormality may be a loss of vacuum in the condenser.

[0021] In this embodiment, the vacuum evaporation type fresh water production system further includes a condenser having a plurality of heat transfer tubes therein and cooling steam supplied into the condenser to produce fresh water, and a water ejector that supplies cooling seawater to the condenser and maintains a vacuum state inside the condenser, and the cause of the abnormality may be malfunction of the water ejector.

[0022] In this embodiment, when the secondary cause of the abnormality is that the driving water pressure of the water ejector is less than a predetermined value due to an insufficient opening of a flow rate control valve that adjusts the flow rate of seawater supplied to the water ejector, The control unit preferably controls the opening degree of the flow rate adjustment valve.

[0023] In this embodiment, if the secondary cause of the abnormality is that the pressure in the cooling seawater discharge line for discharging the cooling seawater from the condenser outside the ship is higher than a predetermined value, it is preferable that the presentation unit presents a suggestion to the user to check for blockage of the cooling seawater discharge line or the opening degree of the cooling water outlet valve provided in the cooling seawater discharge line, or the control unit adjusts the opening degree of the cooling water outlet valve.

[0024] In this embodiment, if a secondary cause of the abnormality is that the pressure of the cooling seawater supplied from the water ejector is negative, it is preferable that the presentation unit presents a suggestion to the user to throttle a cooling water outlet valve provided in a cooling seawater discharge line for discharging the cooling seawater from the condenser outside the ship, or the control unit adjusts the opening degree of the cooling water outlet valve.

[0025] In this embodiment, if a secondary cause of the abnormality is corrosion or wear of the nozzle or the radiation tube of the water ejector, it is preferable that the notification unit prompts the user to replace the nozzle or the radiation tube with a new one.

[0026] In this embodiment, if the secondary cause of the abnormality is a stuck brine check valve provided in a brine discharge line that discharges the raw seawater remaining after the steam is generated into the water ejector, it is preferable that the notification unit prompts the user to open, inspect, or clean the brine check valve, or to replace the brine check valve with a new one.

[0027] In this embodiment, if the secondary cause of the abnormality is that a foreign object is clogged in the nozzle of the water ejector, the prompting unit preferably prompts the user to clean the nozzle.

[0028] In this embodiment, the secondary cause of the abnormality may be that the extraction line for sending non-condensable gas in the condenser to the water ejector is closed, or that the vacuum adjustment valve provided in the extraction line is closed.

[0029] In this embodiment, if a further factor of the secondary factor is that the check valve is stuck, it is preferable that the prompting unit prompts the user to open, inspect, or clean the check valve, or to replace the check valve with a new one.

[0030] In this embodiment, if a further factor of the secondary factor is that the vacuum adjustment valve is not opened sufficiently, it is preferable that the presentation unit presents a suggestion to the user to adjust the vacuum adjustment valve in the opening direction.

[0031] In this embodiment, if the secondary cause of the abnormality is the presence of an air leak from the condenser, the presentation unit preferably presents a suggestion to the user to perform an air test at a predetermined air pressure to identify and repair the leak.

[0032] In this embodiment, if the secondary cause of the abnormality is a failure of a pressure gauge for measuring the degree of vacuum in the vacuum state, it is preferable to suggest to the user that the pressure gauge be replaced with a new one.

[0033] In this embodiment, when the abnormality is an excessive salinity concentration of the freshwater due to an excessive amount of freshwater produced, the control unit preferably controls the amount of freshwater produced to be equal to or less than a rated amount of freshwater produced.

[0034] In this embodiment, the vacuum evaporation type fresh water production system further includes a condenser having a plurality of heat transfer tubes therein and cooling steam supplied into the condenser to produce fresh water, and a water ejector supplying cooling seawater to the condenser and maintaining a vacuum state inside the condenser, and when the abnormality is an excessive salinity concentration of the fresh water caused by the temperature of the raw seawater being lower than a predetermined value, it is preferable that the control unit throttles a vacuum regulating valve provided in an extraction line for sending non-condensable gas in the condenser to the water ejector, or controls the aperture of a vacuum breaker valve for breaking the vacuum state.

[0035] In this embodiment, when the abnormality is an excessive salinity concentration of the freshwater due to a change in the jacket cooling water or seawater inlet temperature, it is preferable that the notification unit notify the user to reduce the jacket cooling amount and temporarily operate at a low water production rate, or to avoid making any sudden changes to the operating conditions.

[0036] In this embodiment, when the abnormality is the adhesion of scale due to an excessive amount of freshwater produced, the control unit preferably controls the amount of freshwater produced so that it is equal to or less than a rated amount of freshwater produced.

[0037] In this embodiment, when the abnormality is the adhesion of scale due to failure to perform cool-down when the vacuum evaporation type fresh water production system is stopped, it is preferable that the control unit, when the operation is stopped, operates only the cooling water system for a predetermined time or more after the supply of hot water is stopped, and controls the heater to be cooled.

[0038] In this embodiment, the heater is connected to a hot water inlet pipe and a hot water outlet pipe for respectively introducing and discharging the jacket cooling water, and if the abnormality is the buildup of scale due to leakage from a hot water inlet / outlet valve in the hot water inlet pipe or the hot water outlet pipe, it is preferable that the notification unit notify the user to check the opening degree of the hot water inlet / outlet valve and perform maintenance or replacement.

[0039] The above object of the present invention is achieved by a management method for managing a vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator that produces fresh water from seawater, the management method including: an operating status acquisition step of acquiring information about the operating status of the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator; and an abnormality detection step of detecting an abnormality in the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator based on the information acquired in the operating status acquisition step.

[0040] The above object of the present invention is achieved by a management program for causing a computer to function as a management device for managing a vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator that produces fresh water from seawater, the management program causing a computer to function as an operating status acquisition unit that acquires information regarding the operating status of the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator, and an abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality in the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator based on the information acquired by the operating status acquisition unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0041] According to the present invention, it is possible to assist in solving problems relating to vacuum evaporation type fresh water generators. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0042] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram of a fresh water production system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a fresh water generator according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the fresh water generator shown in FIG. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the management device. [Figure 5] 1 is a diagram showing factors that contribute to a shortage of fresh water production among the main events that can occur in the fresh water production apparatus, as well as the processing of the control unit and the content presented by the presentation unit in response to each factor. FIG. [Figure 6] 1 is a diagram showing factors that contribute to a shortage of fresh water production among the main events that can occur in the fresh water production apparatus, as well as the processing of the control unit and the content presented by the presentation unit in response to each factor. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing factors that correspond to excessive salinity in freshwater among the main events that can occur in a freshwater generator, as well as the processing of the control unit and the content displayed by the display unit in response to each factor. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing factors associated with scale adhesion among the main events that can occur in a fresh water generator, as well as the processing performed by a control unit and the content presented by a presentation unit in response to each factor. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a fresh water generator according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0043] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0044] 1 is a block diagram of a fresh water production system according to one embodiment of the present invention. The fresh water production system includes a vacuum evaporation fresh water production system (hereinafter referred to as the "fresh water production system") 1 and a management device 100 that manages the fresh water production system 1.

[0045] [Configuration of freshwater generator] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the fresh water generator 1, and FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the internal configuration of the fresh water generator 1. As shown in FIG.

[0046] The freshwater generator 1 includes a heater 2, a condenser 3 having a steam-water separator 4, a condenser 5, and a preheater 6. In Fig. 3, symbol P1 denotes an ejector pump for pumping seawater from the sea. The seawater pumped up by the ejector pump P1 (omitted in Fig. 2) is supplied to a water ejector 7 attached to the condenser 3 through a seawater line 8, and then supplied to the condenser 5 as cooling water for producing freshwater by the freshwater generator 1. The water ejector 7 constitutes a pressure reducing means for maintaining the inside of the condenser 3 in a reduced pressure (vacuum) state. The seawater line 8 is provided with a temperature detector 90 for detecting the temperature of the seawater, a seawater pressure gauge 64 for measuring the water pressure of the seawater, a strainer 58 for filtering the seawater, and a flow rate regulating valve 99 for adjusting the flow rate of the seawater.

[0047] The heater 2 includes cylindrical upper and lower pipes 20 and 21 arranged vertically, and a plurality of heating pipes 22 provided within the upper pipe 20. The upper pipe 20 and the lower pipe 21 are connected and fixed by tightening bolts 27A and nuts 27B. The plurality of heating pipes 22 are disposed so as to extend vertically within the upper pipe 20, and both ends thereof are fixed to the upper and lower wall surfaces of the upper pipe 20. A raw seawater inlet 23 is provided in the lower pipe 21, and raw seawater is introduced into the lower pipe 21 from a raw seawater supply line 24, thereby introducing raw seawater into each heating pipe 22. A cylindrical hot water inlet pipe 25 and a hot water outlet pipe 26 are connected vertically to the side wall surface of the upper pipe 20. Hot water, such as jacket cooling water used for cooling a diesel engine 70, is introduced into the upper pipe 20 from the hot water inlet pipe 25 via a hot water supply line 71. The raw seawater introduced into each heating pipe 22 is heated and evaporated by heat exchange with the hot water introduced into the upper pipe 20 from the hot water inlet pipe 25, and the steam is supplied to the condenser 3. The hot water in the upper pipe 20 that has exchanged heat with the raw seawater is sent to the jacket water cooler 73 from the hot water outlet pipe 26 through the hot water outlet line 72.

[0048] The hot water supply line 71 is provided with a hot water inlet valve 80 and a flow rate adjusting three-way valve 81, and the hot water discharge line 72 is provided with a hot water outlet valve 82 and a temperature detector 65. The hot water supply line 71 and the hot water discharge line 72 are connected via connection lines 74 and 75, and the connection line 75 is provided with a flow rate adjusting valve 83. The flow rate adjusting three-way valve 81 can adjust the flow rates of both the hot water supply line 71 and the connection line 74. The hot water supply line 71 is also provided with a flow meter 91 for detecting the flow rate of the hot water and a temperature detector 92 for detecting the temperature of the hot water.

[0049] The condenser 3 is provided with a cylindrical casing 30 having a larger diameter than the upper pipe 20 and lower pipe 21 of the heater 2, and the upper pipe 20 of the heater 2 is connected and fixed to the lower end of the casing 30 by tightening bolts 28A and nuts 28B. In this way, the heater 2 is detachably supported in a suspended state on the condenser 3, and the interior of the casing 30 forms a steam flow path through which steam supplied from the heater 2 flows. A cylindrical horizontal pipe 31 forming the outer shell of the condenser 5 and the preheater 6 is provided at the top of the casing 30 so as to penetrate the casing 30. A first header 32 and a second header 33 are connected to both ends of the horizontal pipe 31, respectively.

[0050] A water-steam separating means 4 for capturing liquid droplets from steam is provided at the bottom of the casing 30. In this embodiment, the water-steam separating means 4 is composed of a water-steam separating plate 40 and a mesh separator 41 made of multiple layers of fine-mesh netting formed from thin threads. An opening 34 for introducing steam into the horizontal pipe 31 is formed in the center of the upper end of the horizontal pipe 31 within the casing 30. A pressure gauge 68 for measuring the steam pressure, a steam thermometer 94 for measuring the steam temperature, and a level sensor 98 for measuring the brine level are provided inside the water-steam separating means 4. Furthermore, an air intake 49 is provided on the side of the water-steam separating means 4, and the air intake 49 is connected to a vacuum breaker valve 59 for breaking the vacuum.

[0051] The condenser 5 cools the steam supplied to the condenser 3 to produce fresh water, and includes a plurality of heat transfer tubes 50 therein. Each heat transfer tube 50 is disposed so as to extend horizontally, with both ends thereof fixed to the left and right wall surfaces of the horizontal tube 31, and communicates with the interiors of the first and second headers 32, 33. A plurality of heat transfer tubes 60 constituting the preheater 6 are provided above the heat transfer tubes 50 constituting the condenser 5. These heat transfer tubes 60 are also disposed so as to extend horizontally, with both ends thereof fixed to the left and right wall surfaces of the horizontal tube 31, and communicates with the interiors of the first and second headers 32, 33.

[0052] The first and second headers 32, 33 are each divided by partition plates 35, 36 into an upper preheating header chamber 32B, 33B and a lower condensation header chamber 32A, 32B. The condensation header 32A of the first header 32 is provided with a cooling water inlet 37 through which cooling seawater for cooling and condensing steam is introduced. The cooling water inlet 37 is connected to a water ejector 7 via a cooling water line 54, and seawater from an ejector pump P1 is introduced as cooling water. The cooling water line 54 is provided with a temperature detector 66 for detecting the temperature of the cooling water and a pressure gauge 67 for detecting the pressure of the cooling water. When the cooling seawater introduced into the condensation header 32A of the first header 32 flows through each heat transfer tube 50 toward the condensation header 33A of the other second header 33, the steam supplied to the horizontal tubes 31 is cooled by heat exchange with the cooling seawater and condenses. The fresh water produced by condensation is extracted from a fresh water delivery line 52 via a fresh water outlet 38 provided at the lower end of the horizontal pipe 31 and sent to a fresh water tank (not shown) by a fresh water pump P2 (not shown in FIG. 2 ). The fresh water delivery line 52 is provided with a salinity meter 79 for measuring the salinity of the fresh water, a fresh water level switch 88 for detecting the fresh water level, a flow meter 95 for measuring the flow rate of the fresh water, and a flow control valve 62 for adjusting the flow rate of the fresh water. The condensation header 33A of the second header 33 is provided with a cooling water outlet 39 for discharging cooling seawater from each heat transfer tube 50, and the cooling seawater discharged from the cooling water outlet 39 is discharged, for example, outside the ship via a cooling seawater discharge line 51. The cooling seawater discharge line 51 is provided with a temperature detector 53 for measuring the temperature of the cooling seawater, a discharge pressure gauge 55 for measuring the water pressure of the cooling seawater, and a cooling water outlet valve 56 for adjusting the flow rate of the cooling seawater.

[0053] The partition plate 36 of the second header is provided with a raw seawater inlet 45 through which a portion of the cooling seawater discharged from the condenser 5 is introduced. A portion of the cooling seawater discharged from the condenser 5 is introduced into the preheating header chamber 33B of the second header 33 via the raw seawater inlet 45. The cooling seawater then flows through each heat transfer tube 60 constituting the preheater 6 toward the preheating header chamber 32B of the other first header 32. As the cooling seawater flows through each heat transfer tube 60, it is heated by heat exchange with the steam supplied into the horizontal tubes 31. The preheating header chamber 32B of the first header 32 is provided with a raw seawater outlet 29 through which the cooling seawater is discharged. The cooling seawater discharged from the raw seawater outlet 29 is supplied as raw seawater into the lower pipe 21 of the heater 2 via the raw seawater supply line 24. The raw seawater supply line 24 is provided with a water supply adjustment valve 61 for adjusting the flow rate of the cooling seawater, a water supply pressure gauge 69 for measuring the water pressure of the cooling seawater, a water supply orifice 57 for adjusting the flow rate of the cooling seawater, and a condenser air vent valve 44 for discharging air that has become mixed in the preheater 6.

[0054] A gas vent port 42 is provided at the upper end of the horizontal pipe 31 outside the casing 30, and a brine outlet 43 is provided at the lower end of the casing 30. The gas vent port 42 is connected to the water ejector 7 via an extraction line 46, and non-condensable gases inside the horizontal pipe 31 are sucked by the water ejector 7, maintaining the horizontal pipe 31 and the casing 30 in a reduced pressure (vacuum) state lower than atmospheric pressure. As a result, raw seawater evaporates and condenses in the horizontal pipe 31 and the casing 30 under reduced pressure (vacuum). The degree of vacuum in the vacuum state is measured by a pressure gauge 68 connected to the condenser 3. The flow rate of the extraction line 46 can be adjusted by a vacuum control valve (flow rate control valve) 84. The brine outlet 43 is connected to the water ejector 7 via a brine discharge line 48, and brine (seawater) evaporated in the casing 30 is sucked by the water ejector 7 through the brine outlet 43 and then discharged outside the ship. The brine discharge line 48 is provided with a brine check valve 63 .

[0055] [Configuration of management device] The management device 100 shown in Fig. 1 is connected to the freshwater generator 1 via wire or wirelessly so that they can communicate with each other. In this embodiment, the management device 100 is installed inside the ship, but it may also be installed outside the ship (for example, on land). The management device 100 may be configured as a general-purpose computer or as a dedicated computer such as a control panel. Alternatively, the management device 100 may be configured as an integral part of the freshwater generator 1.

[0056] As shown in FIG. 1, the management device 100 includes an operating status acquisition unit 110, an abnormality detection unit 120, and a troubleshooting unit 130. The operating status acquisition unit 110, the abnormality detection unit 120, and the troubleshooting unit 130 may be implemented in hardware using a logic circuit or the like, or in software using a CPU or the like. When the units are implemented in software, the CPU can read a management program stored in a storage device of the management device 100 into a main storage device and execute the program to implement the units. The management program may be downloaded to the management device 100 via a communication network such as the Internet, or may be recorded on a computer-readable, non-transitory recording medium such as a CD-ROM and installed in the management device 100 via the storage medium.

[0057] The operating state acquisition unit 110 acquires information relating to the operating state of the fresh water generator 1 (operating state acquisition step). In this embodiment, the operating state acquisition unit 110 acquires, as the information, each detection value from the temperature detector 90, the temperature detector 66, the flow meter 91, the temperature detector 92, the temperature detector 65, the pressure gauge 68, the steam thermometer 94, the flow meter 95, the salinity meter 79, the feedwater pressure gauge 69, the seawater pressure gauge 64, the temperature detector 53, the level sensor 98, and the discharge pressure gauge 55 of the fresh water generator 1.

[0058] The abnormality detection unit 120 detects an abnormality in the fresh water generator 1 based on information about the operating state of the fresh water generator 1 acquired by the operating state acquisition unit 110. A normal range is defined for each detection value included in the information. If at least one of the detection values ​​is outside the range, the abnormality detection unit 120 determines that an abnormality has occurred in the fresh water generator 1 and identifies the content (event) and cause of the abnormality. If the cause is identified, the abnormality detection unit 120 inputs information about the identified event and cause to the troubleshooting unit 130. If the cause cannot be identified, the abnormality detection unit 120 inputs information to the troubleshooting unit 130 indicating that the identified event and cause are unknown.

[0059] The troubleshooting unit 130 is a functional block for resolving an abnormality when the abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection unit 120. To realize this function, the troubleshooting unit 130 includes a control unit 131 and a presentation unit 132.

[0060] When an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection unit 120, the control unit 131 controls the fresh water generator 1 so as to resolve the abnormality. The abnormalities that the control unit 131 targets are limited to abnormalities that can be resolved automatically without human intervention.

[0061] When an abnormality is detected by the abnormality detection unit 120, the presentation unit 132 presents to the user of the freshwater generator 1 a method for resolving the abnormality. The manner in which the information is presented to the user is not particularly limited, and the information may be displayed on a display or may be guided by voice. Alternatively, information for resolving the abnormality may be output to another device (for example, a control panel of a ship) via a wired or wireless connection. The abnormalities that the presentation unit 132 targets are not particularly limited, and may be limited to abnormalities that cannot be resolved automatically. In this embodiment, when an abnormality that can be resolved automatically is detected, the control unit 131 is activated, and when an abnormality that cannot be resolved automatically is detected, the presentation unit 132 is activated.

[0062] [Troubleshooting Overview] 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the management device 100. In the management device 100, the operating state acquisition unit 110 continuously acquires information about the operating state of the fresh water generator 1 (operating state acquisition step S1), and the abnormality detection unit 120 detects an abnormality in the fresh water generator 1 based on the information acquired by the operating state acquisition unit 110 (abnormality detection step S2). If an abnormality is actually detected (YES in step S3), the troubleshooting unit 130 determines whether the detected abnormality is an automatically resolvable abnormality (step S4). If the detected abnormality is an automatically resolvable abnormality (YES in step S4), the control unit 131 controls the fresh water generator 1 so as to resolve the abnormality (step 5). If the abnormality is resolved as a result (YES in step 6), the process returns to step 2. If the detected abnormality is not an automatically resolvable abnormality (NO in step S4) or if the control unit 131 is unable to resolve the abnormality (NO in step 6), the presentation unit 132 presents a method for resolving the abnormality to the user (step 7).

[0063] [Specific examples of troubleshooting] 5 to 8 show the main events that can occur in the fresh water generator, the factors that correspond to the events, and the processing of the control unit and the content presented by the presentation unit that correspond to each factor.

[0064] The main events that can occur in freshwater generators can be broadly divided into the following: 1) Insufficient water production (Figures 5 and 6) 2) High freshwater salinity (Figure 7) 3) Scale adhesion (Figure 8) In this embodiment, the term "amount of freshwater produced" refers to the amount of freshwater produced per unit time by the freshwater generator 1. The freshwater salinity is set as a rated value according to the performance required of the freshwater generator 1. Scale is a component such as calcium sulfate contained in seawater, which precipitates when seawater evaporates and is likely to adhere to the heating tubes 22 and the like.

[0065] (Event 1) First, the process when Event 1 (insufficient amount of desalination) shown in Figures 5 and 6 is detected will be described. The sub-events corresponding to Event 1 are as follows: 11) Decreased heating capacity (Fig. 5) 12) Insufficient cooling capacity (Fig. 5) 13) Vacuum drop in condenser 3 (Figure 6) There is. The primary cause (factor 1) of Sub-event 11 (decreased heating capacity) is: A) Insufficient amount of hot water B) The hot water temperature is lower than the specified value. C) Dirt and scale buildup in the hot water supply line Factor A is identified by the detected value of flow meter 91, temperature detector 92, or temperature detector 65, and factor B is identified by the detected value of temperature detector 92. Factor C is identified by at least one of the detected value of flow meter 91, the detected value of temperature detector 92, the detected value of flow meter 95 (amount of produced water), the detected value of temperature detector 53, the detected value of temperature detector 65, and the detected value of temperature detector 66.

[0066] If factor A is identified, the control unit 131 operates to increase the hot water flow rate by adjusting at least one of the hot water inlet valve 80, the flow rate adjustment three-way valve 81, the hot water outlet valve 82, and the flow rate adjustment valve 83. If this does not resolve the event, the notification unit 132 operates to notify the user that the hot water flow rate should be increased.

[0067] If factor B is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the hot water temperature should be increased to a specified value or higher. If factor C is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the hot water temperature should be increased to a specified value or higher. Clean the hot water supply line 71 - Operate to prevent scale buildup This is presented to the user.

[0068] The primary causes of Sub-event 12 (insufficient cooling capacity) are: D) Poor discharge of fresh water E) Insufficient amount of cooling water F) Cooling water temperature is high G) Dirt and scale adhesion inside the heat transfer tube 50 of the condenser 5 H) Poor air discharge from the heat transfer tube 50 of the condenser 5 There is.

[0069] The secondary factors of Factor D (Factor 2) are: D1) The flow control valve 62 of the fresh water delivery line 52 is closed. D2) Pump P2 is broken D3) The fresh water delivery line 52 is clogged. D4) Pump P2 is sucking air. These factors D1 to D4 are determined by the detected value (amount of produced water) of the flow meter 95, the detected value of the fresh water level switch 88, as well as the fresh water discharge pressure and the switch of the fresh water pump.

[0070] When any of the factors D1 to D4 is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated. For the factor D1, the notification unit 132 suggests opening the valve of the fresh water delivery line 52, for the factor D2, it suggests repairing the pump P2, for the factor D3, it suggests inspecting and cleaning the piping of the fresh water delivery line 52, and for the factor D4, it suggests adjusting the pump P2.

[0071] The secondary factor of factor E (factor 2) is: E1) Malfunction of water ejector 7 E2) The amount of cooling water (seawater for cooling) supplied to the freshwater generator 1 is small. Factor E1 is due to a malfunction of the water ejector 7 itself, and factor E2 is due to a malfunction of the ejector pump P1 or other piping. These factors E1 and E2 are identified by the detected value (ejector inlet pressure) of the seawater pressure gauge 64 and the detected value of the pressure gauge 67. When factor E1 is identified, the control unit 131 or the notification unit 132 performs processing corresponding to factor J (FIG. 6) described below. When factor E2 is identified, the control unit 131 operates to control the amount of cooling water to increase. If this does not resolve the event, the notification unit 132 operates, Increase the amount of cooling water Check the pump and piping system This is presented to the user.

[0072] Factor F is identified by the detection value of the temperature detector 90. Factor G is identified by at least one of the detection value of the seawater pressure gauge 64 (ejector inlet pressure), the detection value of the flow meter 95 (amount of produced water), the detection value of the temperature detector 53, the detection value of the temperature detector 66, and the detection value of the steam thermometer 94. When factor F is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the cooling water temperature should be lowered. When factor G is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the heat transfer tubes 50 of the condenser 5 should be cleaned.

[0073] Factor H is identified by the detected values ​​of at least one of the temperature detector 53, the temperature detector 66, the pressure gauge 68, the seawater pressure gauge 64, and the flow meter 95. When factor H is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the vacuum regulating valve 84 should be inspected, cleaned, or replaced.

[0074] As shown in Figure 6, the primary causes of Sub-event 13 (vacuum loss) are: J) Malfunction of water ejector 7 K) There is an air leak L) Pressure gauge 68 malfunction M) Insufficient amount of cooling water N) Hole in the heating tube 22 P) Excessive water supply There is.

[0075] The secondary factors of factor J are: J1) The driving water pressure of the water ejector 7 is less than a predetermined value J2) The back pressure is higher than the specified value J3) The pressure on the drain pressure gauge 55 / pressure gauge 67 is negative. J4) The nozzle or the nozzle of the water ejector 7 is corroded or worn. J5) Brine check valve 63 is stuck J6) Foreign matter is stuck in the nozzle of the water ejector 7 J7) The bleed line 46 or vacuum regulating valve 84 is closed The "back pressure" refers to the pressure inside the cooling seawater discharge line 51.

[0076] When factor J1 is identified, the tertiary factor (factor 3) of factor J1 is as follows: J11) Ejector pump P1 is broken J12) The pressure loss in the piping is excessive. J13) The opening of the flow control valve 99 is insufficient. Factors J11 and J13 are identified by the inlet pressure of the ejector pump P1. If factor J11 is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated and notifies the user that the ejector pump P1 should be repaired. If factor J13 is identified, the control unit 131 is activated and performs control to adjust the opening of the flow rate adjustment valve 99. If this does not resolve the event, the notification unit 132 is activated and notifies the user that the opening of the flow rate adjustment valve 99 should be adjusted. Factor J12 cannot be identified automatically, but if factors J11 and J13 are not identified, factor J12 is highly likely to be the cause. Therefore, the notification unit 132 presents factor J12 as a likely candidate and notifies the user that the pipe diameter, valve type, etc. should be reviewed to reduce pressure loss.

[0077] The cause J2 is identified by the detection value of the pressure gauge 67. When the cause J2 is identified, the control unit 131 is activated to adjust the opening of the cooling water outlet valve 56 provided in the cooling seawater discharge line 51. When this does not resolve the event, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the cooling seawater discharge line 51 is clogged or that the opening of the cooling water outlet valve 56 provided in the cooling seawater discharge line 51 should be checked.

[0078] Cause J3 is identified by the detected values ​​of the drain pressure gauge 55 and the pressure gauge 67. When cause J3 is identified, the control unit 131 is activated to adjust the opening of the cooling water outlet valve 56. If this does not resolve the event, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the cooling water outlet valve 56 should be slightly closed.

[0079] The cause J4 is identified by the inlet pressure of the ejector pump P1. When the cause J4 is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the nozzle or the radiation tube should be replaced with a new one.

[0080] The factors J5 to J7 are identified by the inlet pressure of the ejector pump P1 and the evaporation temperature or evaporation pressure of the raw seawater measured by the pressure gauge 68, the steam thermometer 94, and the level sensor 98. When the factor J5 is identified, the display unit 132 is activated, Open, inspect or clean the brine check valve Replace the brine check valve with a new one if necessary. This is presented to the user.

[0081] If the cause J6 is identified, the prompting unit 132 is activated to prompt the user to clean the nozzle.

[0082] If factor J7 is identified, the tertiary factors of factor J7 are: J71) Check valve on bleed line 46 is stuck J72) Vacuum adjustment valve 84 is not open enough When the cause J71 is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated. · Open and inspect the check valve and clean it Replace check valves if necessary If the cause J72 is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the vacuum adjustment valve 84 should be adjusted in the open direction.

[0083] Like factors J5 to J7, factor K is identified by the inlet pressure of ejector pump P1 and the evaporation temperature or evaporation pressure of raw seawater measured by steam thermometer 94 and pressure gauge 68. When factor K is identified, presentation unit 132 is activated and presents a suggestion to the user to perform an air test at a predetermined air pressure (for example, 0.05 MPa) to identify and repair the leak location.

[0084] If the cause L is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the pressure gauge 68 should be replaced with a new one.

[0085] When factor M is identified, the control unit 131 or the presentation unit 132 operates in the same manner as when factor E described above is identified.

[0086] If cause N is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated to identify the broken or loosened portion and notify the user that the corresponding pipe should be replaced (temporarily plugged).

[0087] When factor P is identified, the secondary factors of factor P are: P1) The opening of the water supply adjusting valve 61 is excessive P2) Water supply orifice 57 is worn out P3) High water supply pressure Factors P1 and P3 are identified by the pressure of the water supply orifice 57. When factor P1 is identified, the control unit 131 operates to control the water supply adjustment valve 61 to narrow the opening. If this does not resolve the issue, the notification unit 132 operates to notify the user that the opening of the water supply adjustment valve 61 should be narrowed. When factor P3 is identified, the control unit 131 operates to - Reduce the opening of the water supply adjustment valve 61 Increase the opening of the cooling water outlet valve 56 of the cooling seawater discharge line 51 If the problem is not resolved by this, the notification unit 132 is activated. - Reduce the opening of the water supply adjustment valve 61 Increase the opening of the cooling water outlet valve 56 of the cooling seawater discharge line 51 This is presented to the user.

[0088] Although factor P2 cannot be identified automatically, if factors P1 and P3 cannot be identified, factor P2 is highly likely to be the cause. Therefore, the presentation unit 132 presents factor P2 as a likely candidate and also suggests to the user that the water supply orifice 57 be replaced with a new one.

[0089] (Event 2) Next, the process when event 2 (high freshwater salinity) shown in Figure 7 is detected will be described. The sub-events corresponding to event 2 are: 21) Excessive water production (excessive amount of water production) 22) Low evaporation temperature (low seawater temperature) 23) Poor brine discharge 24) There is a problem with the mesh separator 41. 25) Damage to the water-air separator plate 40 26) Hole in the heat transfer tube 50 of the condenser 5 (loosening of the expansion section) 27) Fluctuations in operating conditions 28) Contamination of raw seawater Although not shown, a salinometer is provided in the freshwater delivery line 52.

[0090] Sub-event 21 (over-produced water) is detected by the value (amount of produced water) detected by the flow meter 95. When sub-event 21 is detected, the control unit 131 operates to control the fresh water generator 1 so that the amount of produced water is equal to or less than the rated amount. If this does not resolve the event, the notification unit 132 operates to notify the user that the system will operate at or below the rated amount of produced water.

[0091] The lower event 22 (low evaporation temperature) is detected by the detected value of the steam thermometer 94 as well as the detected value of the flow meter 95 (amount of water produced). When the lower event 22 is detected, the control unit 131 is activated. ·Throttle vacuum regulating valve 84 · Raise the evaporation temperature by slightly opening the vacuum breaker valve 59 If the problem is not resolved by this, the notification unit 132 is activated. ·Throttle vacuum regulating valve 84 · Raise the evaporation temperature by slightly opening the vacuum breaker valve 59 This is presented to the user.

[0092] The causes of Sub-event 23 (poor brine drainage) were: Q) Water ejector 7 malfunction R) Excessive water supply When factor Q is identified, the control unit 131 or the presentation unit 132 performs processing corresponding to the above-mentioned factor J (FIG. 6). When factor R is identified, the control unit 131 or the presentation unit 132 performs processing corresponding to the above-mentioned factor P (FIG. 6).

[0093] The causes of sub-event 24 (there is a problem with mesh separator 41) are: S) Salt is precipitated and adhered T) There is a gap between the casing 30 and the body. There is.

[0094] When the cause S is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated. Check and clean the mesh separator 41 and remove salt. Replace the mesh separator 41 with a new one. This is presented to the user.

[0095] If the factor T is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated. -Install so that there are no gaps If the gap cannot be filled, replace the casing 30 with a new one. This is presented to the user.

[0096] When the lower event 25 is detected, the notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the water-air separator 40 should be replaced with a new one.

[0097] Sub-event 26 (a rupture (loosening of an expanded portion) in a heat transfer tube 50 of a condenser 5) is detected by the detection values ​​of a discharge pressure gauge 55 and a feed water pressure gauge 69. When sub-event 26 is detected, a notification unit 132 is activated, identifies the rupture / loose location, and notifies the user that the relevant tube should be replaced (temporarily plugged).

[0098] The lower event 27 (fluctuation in the operating conditions) is detected by at least one of the detected values ​​of the seawater pressure gauge 64, the temperature detector 65, the temperature detector 90, the flow meter 91, and the temperature detector 92. When the lower event 27 is detected, the notification unit 132 is activated, Reduce the amount of hot water and temporarily operate at a low water production rate -Do not make sudden changes to operating conditions This is presented to the user.

[0099] Sub-event 28 (contamination of raw seawater) is detected by at least one of the detection values ​​of flow meter 91, temperature detector 92, flow meter 95 (amount of produced water), temperature detector 53, temperature detector 65, and temperature detector 66. When sub-event 28 is detected, notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that operation in ports, river mouths, or polluted sea areas should be avoided.

[0100] (Event 3) Next, a process to be performed when event 3 (scale adhesion) shown in Fig. 8 is detected will be described. In this embodiment, "adhesion" that is the target of the process means that scale has adhered in an amount that interferes with the operation of the fresh water generator 1. Sub-events corresponding to event 3 include: 31) Insufficient water supply 32) Excessive water production 33) No scale inhibitor injection 34) Cool down not performed when operation is stopped 35) Leakage from the hot water inlet pipe 25 or the hot water outlet pipe 26 (when the fresh water generator 1 is stopped) 36) Hot water temperature is high There is.

[0101] The causes of Sub-event 31 (insufficient water supply) are: U) Insufficient opening of water supply adjustment valve 61 V) Clogging of water supply orifice 57 W) Water supply pressure gauge 69 malfunction X) Insufficient pressure in the heat transfer tube 50 of the condenser 5 There is.

[0102] Factor U is identified by the detected value of water supply pressure gauge 69. When factor U is identified, control unit 131 operates to open water supply adjustment valve 61 and control the water supply pressure to be within the green mark (for example, 0.04 to 0.06 MPa). If this does not resolve the issue, notification unit 132 operates to notify the user that the water supply pressure is within the green mark.

[0103] If the factor V is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated. Check and clean the water supply orifice 57 Inspect and clean the strainer 58 of the seawater line 8. This is presented to the user.

[0104] If the factor W is identified, the notification unit 132 is activated. - Bleed the air and check the readings Replace water supply pressure gauge 69 with a new one. This is presented to the user.

[0105] Cause X is identified by the detection value of drain pressure gauge 55. When cause X is identified, control unit 131 operates to throttle cooling water outlet valve 56 and control the water supply pressure to be within the green mark (for example, 0.04 to 0.06 MPa). If this does not resolve the issue, presentation unit 132 operates to present to the user that the water supply pressure is within the green mark.

[0106] If the user is unable to resolve the event due to factors U and X, it is highly likely that factor V or W is the cause of the sub-event 31.

[0107] The lower event 32 (excessive desalination) is detected by the value (amount of desalination) detected by the flow meter 95. When the lower event 32 is detected, the control unit 131 operates and controls the operation so as to be below the rated desalination amount.

[0108] Sub-event 33 (scale inhibitor not injected) is detected by a chemical injection tank level sensor (not shown). When sub-event 33 is detected, presentation unit 132 is activated and presents a message to the user to inject the specified amount according to the instruction manual for the chemical solution being used.

[0109] Sub-event 34 (cool-down not performed when operation is stopped) is detected by the detection value of temperature detector 65, flow meter 91, or temperature detector 92. When sub-event 34 is detected, control unit 131 is activated and performs control so that, when operation is stopped, only the cooling water system operates for a predetermined time (e.g., 30 minutes) or more after the hot water supply is stopped to cool down heater 2. If this does not resolve the event, presentation unit 132 is activated and presents a presentation to the user that only the cooling water system operates for a predetermined time or more after the hot water supply is stopped to cool down heater 2.

[0110] Sub-event 35 (leakage from the hot water inlet valve 80 or the hot water outlet valve 82) is detected by the detected value (hot water inlet temperature) of temperature detector 92 and the detected value (hot water outlet temperature) of temperature detector 65. When sub-event 35 is detected, notification unit 132 is activated to notify the user that the hot water inlet / outlet valve should be serviced or replaced.

[0111] The sub-event 36 (hot water temperature is high) is detected by the detected value (hot water inlet temperature) of the temperature detector 92. When the sub-event 36 is detected, the notification unit 132 is activated. - Adjust the hot water temperature below the planned value Increase the water supply (for example, increase the water supply pressure to 0.06 MPa). Increase the amount of scale inhibitor injected This is presented to the user.

[0112] [Summary] As described above, the management device 100 according to this embodiment includes the operating state acquisition unit 110 that acquires information about the operating state of the freshwater producer 1, and the abnormality detection unit 120 that detects an abnormality in the freshwater producer 1 based on the information acquired by the operating state acquisition unit 110. This allows the crew of the ship and others to quickly recognize an abnormality in the freshwater producer 1, allowing them to take action in good time before an actual disruption to operation occurs, and helping to resolve the problem.

[0113] The management device 100 further includes a control unit 131 that, when an abnormality is detected, controls the fresh water generator 1 so that the abnormality is resolved. This makes it possible to resolve the problem regardless of the response capabilities of the crew, etc.

[0114] The management device 100 further includes a presentation unit 132 that, when an abnormality is detected, presents a method for resolving the abnormality to the user of the freshwater generator 1. This allows the crew and others to solve the problem by themselves without relying on outsiders to the ship. It also allows them to know which parts require maintenance or replacement.

[0115] [Variations] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0116] In the above embodiment, the fresh water generator 1 is of a type that uses waste heat from a diesel engine or the like as a heat source, but there is no particular limitation on the type of fresh water generator 1. The present invention can also be applied to fresh water generators that use steam (steam injector type), for example.

[0117] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram of a steam injector type fresh water generator 1'. In Fig. 9, components having the same functions as those in the fresh water generator 1 shown in Fig. 2 are assigned the same reference numerals. In the fresh water generator 1 shown in Fig. 2, jacket cooling water is introduced into the heater 2, but in the fresh water generator 1' shown in Fig. 9, steam is introduced into the heater 2. For this purpose, the fresh water generator 1' is equipped with a steam injector 76, a steam supply line 77, and a steam discharge line 78. A steam inlet line 86 for introducing steam into the steam injector 76 is provided with a flow control valve 96 and a steam pressure gauge 97, and a steam drain discharge line 87 is provided in the steam discharge line 78. [Industrial Applicability]

[0118] The present invention is applicable to the above-mentioned fresh water generator, as well as to a plate-type fresh water generator and a multi-effect fresh water generator. [Explanation of symbols]

[0119] 1,1' Fresh water generator (vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator) 2 Heater 3. Condenser 4 Air-water separation means 5 Condenser 6 Preheater 7 Water Ejector 8 Seawater Line 25 Hot water introduction pipe 26 Hot water discharge pipe 46 Bleed line 48 Brine discharge line 50 Heat transfer tube 51 Cooling seawater discharge line 52 Freshwater delivery line 59 Vacuum breaker valve 63 Brine check valve 68 Pressure Gauge 71 Hot water supply line 84 Vacuum regulating valve 100 Management device 110 Operation status acquisition unit 120 Abnormality detection unit 131 Control Unit 132 Presentation section

Claims

1. A management device for managing a vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator for producing fresh water from seawater, an operating state acquisition unit that acquires information about the operating state of the vacuum evaporation type fresh water production apparatus; an abnormality detection unit that detects an abnormality in the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator based on the information acquired by the operating state acquisition unit; a control unit that controls the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator so as to eliminate the abnormality when the abnormality is detected; Equipped with The vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator is a heater that generates steam by heating raw seawater with jacket cooling water that cools an internal combustion engine of a ship; a condenser that cools the steam generated by the heater with cooling seawater to produce fresh water; Equipped with the abnormality is a shortage of the amount of fresh water produced due to a shortage of heating capacity of the heater, When the cause of the abnormality is a shortage of the jacket cooling water, The control unit controls the amount of the jacket cooling water to increase.

2. A method for managing a vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator for producing fresh water from seawater, comprising: an operating status acquisition step of acquiring information about the operating status of the vacuum evaporation type fresh water production apparatus; an abnormality detection step of detecting an abnormality in the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator based on the information acquired in the operating state acquisition step; a control step of controlling the vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator when the abnormality is detected so as to eliminate the abnormality; Equipped with The vacuum evaporation type fresh water generator is a heater that generates steam by heating raw seawater with jacket cooling water that cools an internal combustion engine of a ship; a condenser that cools the steam generated by the heater with cooling seawater to produce fresh water; Equipped with the abnormality is a shortage of the amount of fresh water produced due to a shortage of heating capacity of the heater, When the cause of the abnormality is a shortage of the jacket cooling water, In the control step, the amount of the jacket cooling water is controlled to increase.

3. A management program for causing a computer to function as each unit of the management device according to claim 1.

4. A computer-readable recording medium on which the management program according to claim 3 is recorded.

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