Information processing device, degradation estimation method, and program

Abstract

To estimate a degree of deterioration of asphalt stored in a tank.SOLUTION: An information processing device 10 includes: a deterioration ratio calculation part 30 which calculates a deterioration ratio per unit time of asphalt in a tank by using tank data 20 about the structure of the tank in which the asphalt is stored and storage amount data 22 about a storage amount of the asphalt stored in the tank; and a degree of deterioration estimation part 34 that estimates the degree of deterioration of the asphalt in the tank due to the passage of a predetermined period by using the calculated deterioration rate.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This disclosure relates to an information processing device, a degradation estimation method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] One indicator of asphalt's properties is its penetration degree, which indicates its hardness. Paving asphalt is classified into 10 types according to the numerical range of its penetration degree as defined by quality standards (e.g., JIS K2207). Asphalt manufacturers store asphalt in tanks prepared according to its penetration degree. In the case of asphalt with infrequent shipments, it is known that the asphalt deteriorates in the tanks, causing the penetration degree to decrease and fall outside the predetermined numerical range (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2007-211173 [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] It is empirically known that long-term storage of asphalt in tanks reduces its penetration. However, because there is no suitable model for evaluating asphalt deterioration, it has been difficult to understand the degree of asphalt deterioration in principle and quantitatively.

[0005] One exemplary object of certain embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide a technique for estimating the degree of deterioration of asphalt stored in a tank. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device in one aspect of the present disclosure includes a deterioration rate calculation unit that calculates the deterioration rate of asphalt per unit time in a tank using tank data relating to the structure of a tank in which asphalt is stored and storage amount data relating to the amount of asphalt stored in the tank, and a deterioration rate estimation unit that estimates the degree of deterioration of the asphalt in the tank over a predetermined period of time using the calculated deterioration rate.

[0007] Another aspect of this disclosure is a deterioration estimation method. This method comprises: calculating the rate of deterioration of asphalt per unit time in a tank using tank data relating to the structure of a tank in which asphalt is stored and storage data relating to the amount of asphalt stored in the tank; and estimating the degree of deterioration of the asphalt in the tank over a predetermined period of time using the calculated deterioration rate.

[0008] Another aspect of this disclosure is a program. This program enables a computer to perform the following functions: calculate the rate of deterioration of asphalt per unit time in a tank using tank data relating to the structure of a tank in which asphalt is stored and storage data relating to the amount of asphalt stored in the tank; and estimate the degree of deterioration of the asphalt in the tank over a predetermined period of time using the calculated rate of deterioration. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to this disclosure, it is possible to estimate the degree of deterioration of asphalt stored in a tank. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] This diagram schematically shows the configuration of the storage device according to the embodiment. [Figure 2] This diagram schematically shows the configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] This graph shows an example of the dependence of penetration depth on heating time, as measured in a heating test. [Figure 4]This is a table showing an example of the penetration measured in heating tests set at multiple heating temperatures. [Figure 5] This is a graph showing an example of the temperature dependence of the penetration measured in heating tests. [Figure 6] This is a graph showing an example of the estimation result of the penetration. [Figure 7] This is a graph comparing the estimated value and the measured value of the penetration. [Figure 8] This is a flowchart showing the deterioration estimation method according to the embodiment.

Embodiments of the Invention

[0011] The outline of the present disclosure will be described. The present disclosure relates to a technique for estimating the degree of deterioration of asphalt stored in a tank, and particularly relates to a technique for estimating the amount of decrease in the penetration of asphalt. In an asphalt storage facility, molten asphalt heated to a liquid state may be stored in a tank. It is considered that the molten asphalt in the tank undergoes thermal deterioration by coming into contact with the air in the tank, and the penetration of the asphalt decreases. In the present disclosure, using tank data related to the structure of the tank and storage amount data related to the storage amount of asphalt in the tank, the deterioration rate per unit time of the asphalt in the tank is calculated, and the degree of deterioration of the asphalt is estimated using the calculated deterioration rate. According to the present disclosure, by calculating the ratio of the asphalt in the part that comes into contact with air in the tank according to the tank structure and the storage amount, the estimation accuracy of the degree of deterioration can be improved.

[0012] The subject of the information processing device or method in this disclosure comprises a computer. The functions of the subject of the device or method in this disclosure are realized by the computer executing a computer program. The computer comprises a processor as its main hardware component, which operates according to the computer program. The processor is of any type as long as it can realize its functions by executing the computer program. The processor consists of one or more electronic circuits, including semiconductor integrated circuits (ICs, LSIs, etc.). The computer program is recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as a ROM, optical disc, or hard disk drive that is readable by the computer. The computer program may be pre-stored on the recording medium or may be supplied to the recording medium via a wide-area communication network, including the Internet.

[0013] The technology of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings, based on preferred embodiments. The embodiments are illustrative and not limiting to the invention, and not all features or combinations thereof described in the embodiments are necessarily essential to the invention. The same or equivalent components, members, and processes shown in each drawing are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant explanations are omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, the scale and shape of each part shown in each drawing are set for convenience to facilitate explanation and are not to be interpreted restrictively unless otherwise specified. In addition, when terms such as "first," "second," etc. are used in this specification or claims, they do not represent any order or importance unless otherwise specified, but are used to distinguish one configuration from another.

[0014] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a storage device 90 according to an embodiment. The storage device 90 is equipment for storing asphalt 80 and is installed in asphalt 80 manufacturing plants, distribution centers, etc. The storage device 90 may also be mounted on a mobile vehicle such as an automobile or a ship. The storage device 90 stores asphalt 80 that is subject to estimation of its degree of deterioration.

[0015] The storage device 90 includes a tank 50, an inlet 52, an outlet 54, a discharge port 56, a circulation line 58, a pump 60, a tank heater 62, a line heater 64, a stirrer 66, a tank temperature sensor 68, a line temperature sensor 70, and a level sensor 72.

[0016] The tank 50 has an internal space for containing asphalt 80. The internal space of the tank 50 is, for example, cylindrical, and is positioned so that the axis of the cylinder coincides with the height H of the tank 50. The shape and position of the tank 50 are not particularly limited. For example, the internal space of the tank 50 may be elliptical, polygonal, or spherical. If the internal space of the tank 50 is cylindrical, the tank 50 may be installed so that the axis of the column is horizontal.

[0017] The inlet 52 is used to inject new asphalt into the tank 50. The outlet 54 is used to remove the asphalt 80 stored in the tank 50 to the outside. The discharge port 56 is used to return the asphalt 80 removed from the outside of the tank 50 through the circulation line 58 back into the tank 50. A pump 60 is connected downstream of the outlet 54. By driving the pump 60, the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 can be circulated through the outlet 54, the circulation line 58, and the discharge port 56.

[0018] The receiving port 52, the outlet port 54, and the discharge port 56 can be provided at any location on the tank 50, for example, on the side 50a of the tank 50. In the example in Figure 1, the receiving port 52 and the outlet port 54 are provided near the bottom 50b of the tank 50, and the discharge port 56 is provided at a predetermined height h from the bottom 50b of the tank 50. A It will be installed at this position.

[0019] The tank heater 62 is installed on the side 50a or bottom 50b of the tank 50. The tank heater 62 heats the asphalt 80 inside the tank 50 to maintain a temperature suitable for storage of the asphalt 80 (also called the storage temperature). The storage temperature is, for example, around 140°C to 200°C. The line heater 64 is installed in the circulation line 58. The line heater 64 heats the asphalt 80 flowing through the circulation line 58 to a temperature suitable for line transport of the asphalt 80 (also called the transport temperature). The transport temperature is often set higher than the storage temperature. The transport temperature is, for example, around 180°C to 230°C.

[0020] The agitator 66 is installed inside the tank 50 and agitates the asphalt 80 inside the tank 50. By driving the agitator 66, the asphalt 80 inside the tank 50 is circulated so that the properties of the asphalt 80 inside the tank 50 become uniform. Alternatively, the tank 50 may be configured without an agitator 66. In this case, the asphalt 80 inside the tank 50 may be agitated by thermal convection caused by heating with a tank heater 62, or by a circulating flow of asphalt 80 using a circulation line 58.

[0021] The tank temperature sensor 68 is installed inside the tank 50 and measures the storage temperature of the asphalt 80 stored in the tank 50. The line temperature sensor 70 is installed in the circulation line 58 and measures the transport temperature of the asphalt 80 flowing through the circulation line 58. The method for measuring the temperature of the asphalt 80 is not particularly limited, and any known technology can be used.

[0022] The level sensor 72 is used to measure the height h of the liquid level 82 of the asphalt 80 inside the tank 50. The level sensor 72 is installed, for example, on the ceiling 50c of the internal space of the tank 50 and measures the distance d from the level sensor 72 to the liquid level 82. By subtracting the measured distance d from the known height h0 from the bottom 50b of the tank 50 to the level sensor 72, the height h of the liquid level 82 of the asphalt 80 can be obtained as h = h0 - d. The method for measuring the height h of the liquid level 82 is not particularly limited, and any known technique can be used.

[0023] Air 78 is present above the internal space of the tank 50. The asphalt 80 stored in the tank 50 oxidizes and deteriorates upon contact with the air inside the tank 50. The deterioration of the asphalt 80 is thought to occur mainly in the area near the liquid surface 84 and the discharge flow section 86. The area near the liquid surface 84 is the part located near the liquid surface 82, and is within a predetermined depth h1 range from the liquid surface 82. The discharge flow section 86 is the part that constitutes the flow of asphalt 80 passing through the air 78 from the discharge port 56 toward the liquid surface 82.

[0024] In this embodiment, the overall degree of deterioration of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 is estimated by estimating the degree of deterioration in the area near the liquid surface 84 and the discharge flow section 86. The following describes the information processing device for estimating such a degree of deterioration.

[0025] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing the functional configuration of the information processing device 10 according to the embodiment. The information processing device 10 comprises an acquisition unit 12, a storage unit 14, an arithmetic unit 16, and an output unit 18. The information processing device 10 is connected to a user terminal 42 and a local device 44 via a network 40.

[0026] Each block shown in the block diagram of this disclosure can be realized in hardware terms by a computer processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory), and in software terms by a computer program. Here, we depict functional blocks realized through the cooperation of hardware and software. Those skilled in the art will understand that these functional blocks can be realized in various ways by combinations of hardware and software.

[0027] A computer program implementing the functions of at least some of the functional blocks shown in Figure 2 may be installed on the storage of one or more computers. The CPU of one or more computers may perform the functions of the functional blocks shown in Figure 2 by reading the computer program installed on its machine into main memory and executing it.

[0028] Furthermore, the functions of the multiple functional blocks shown in Figure 2 may be executed by a single computer or in a distributed manner across multiple computers. When the functions of the multiple functional blocks shown in Figure 2 are executed in a distributed manner across multiple computers, these multiple computers may send and receive data via a communication network including a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), or the Internet.

[0029] The information processing device 10 is, for example, a server. The information processing device 10 may also be a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or a personal computer. The information processing device 10 may also be a mobile terminal such as a smartphone or a tablet computer. The information processing device 10 may also be a cloud-type server configured to provide computer resources to a user terminal 42 via a network 40.

[0030] Network 40 consists of a communication network including various mobile communication systems, such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, and wireless base stations. Examples of mobile communication systems include 3G, 4G, or 5G, LTE (Long Term Evolution), and wireless networks (e.g., Wi-Fi®) that can connect to the Internet via designated access points.

[0031] The user terminal 42 is, for example, a general-purpose computer such as a personal computer. The user terminal 42 may also be a mobile device such as a smartphone or a tablet computer. The user terminal 42 is used, for example, in a factory or facility equipped with a storage device 90.

[0032] The local device 44 is, for example, a server. The local device 44 may also be a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or personal computer. The local device 44 is installed, for example, in a factory or base equipped with a storage device 90. The local device 44 acquires and stores data from sensors, etc., provided in the storage device 90. The local device 44 may also be a cloud-type server configured to provide computer resources to the user terminal 42 via the network 40. In this case, the local device 44 may be installed at a location distant from the factory or base where the user terminal 42 is installed.

[0033] Data from the storage device 90 is transmitted to the information processing device 10 via the local device 44 and the network 40. Alternatively, data from the storage device 90 may be transmitted directly to the information processing device 10 via the network 40 without going through the local device 44.

[0034] The acquisition unit 12 acquires various data from user terminals 42 and local devices 44 via the network 40. The acquisition unit 12 may also acquire various data from storage devices 90. The acquisition unit 12 may also acquire data entered by the user through any input device such as a keyboard or mouse connected to the information processing device 10.

[0035] The storage unit 14 stores data necessary for processing performed by the calculation unit 16. The storage unit 14 records and manages data acquired by the acquisition unit 12. The storage unit 14 stores tank data 20, storage quantity data 22, temperature data 24, event data 26, and penetration depth data 28.

[0036] Tank data 20 is data relating to the structure of the tank 50 in which the asphalt 80 is stored. Tank data 20 includes data relating to the type of tank 50, the shape of the tank 50, the size of the tank 50, and the equipment attached to the tank 50.

[0037] The tank data 20 includes data necessary for calculating the volume V1 of the portion 84 near the liquid surface. The volume V1 of the portion 84 near the liquid surface corresponds to the product of the surface area S1 of the liquid surface 82 and the thickness h1 of the portion 84 near the liquid surface, where V1 = S1·h1. If the tank 50 is cylindrical, the surface area S1 of the liquid surface 82 is calculated using the diameter φ1 of the internal space of the tank 50, so S1 = π(φ1 / 2). 2 This can be expressed as follows. The tank data 20 includes numerical data of the diameter φ1 of the tank 50 for calculating the surface area S1 of the liquid level 82.

[0038] If the tank 50 is not cylindrical or has an irregular shape, the surface area S1 of the liquid surface 82 may vary depending on the height h of the liquid surface 82. In this case, the tank data 20 includes data necessary for calculating the surface area S1(h) of the liquid surface 82, with the height h of the liquid surface 82 as a variable. The tank data 20 may also include numerical data regarding the shape and size of the tank 50 necessary for calculating S1(h). The tank data 20 may also include data regarding a function or table that associates the surface area S1 of the liquid surface 82 with the height h.

[0039] The tank data 20 includes data necessary for calculating the volume V2 of the discharge flow section 86. The volume V2 of the discharge flow section 86 has, for example, the length L of a parabola that is the locus at the center of the discharge flow section 86, and can be approximated by the volume of a cylinder having a circle with the inner diameter φ2 of the discharge port 56 as the base area, and V2 = π(φ2 / 2) 2 ·L. The length L of the parabola can be calculated by the following formula (1) using the flow velocity v of the discharge flow section 86 and the height h2 from the liquid surface 82 to the discharge port 56.

Equation

[0040] The volume V2 of the discharge flow section 86 can be approximated by the product of the flow rate f of the discharge port 56 and the falling time t A from the discharge port 56 to the liquid surface 82, and can be approximated as V2 = f·t A The falling time t A can be expressed as t A = √(2h2 / g). Here, g is the acceleration due to gravity.

[0041] The storage quantity data 22 includes data regarding the storage quantity of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50, and includes data regarding the total volume V0 of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50. When the tank 50 has a cylindrical shape, using the diameter φ1 of the tank 50 and the height h of the liquid surface 82, V0 = π(φ1 / 2) 2It can be expressed as h. The total volume V0 of asphalt 80 in tank 50 is proportional to the height h of the liquid level 82, and the storage amount can be represented by the height h of the liquid level 82. Therefore, the storage amount data may be data indicating the height h of the liquid level 82, or data indicating the distance d measured by the level sensor 72. The storage amount data 22 may also be time-series data of the storage amount of asphalt 80 acquired at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every hour or every day).

[0042] The temperature data 24 is data relating to the temperature of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50. The temperature data 24 includes, for example, storage temperature data measured by the tank temperature sensor 68 and transport temperature data measured by the line temperature sensor 70. The temperature data 24 may also be time-series data of the temperature of the asphalt 80 acquired at predetermined time intervals (e.g., every hour or every day).

[0043] Event data 26 is data relating to the receipt and removal of asphalt 80 in tank 50. Event data 26 includes data relating to asphalt received through the inlet 52, for example, data indicating the date and time of receipt and the amount received, using the receipt ID as the key. Event data 26 includes data relating to asphalt removed through the outlet 54, for example, data indicating the date and time of removal and the amount removed, using the removal ID as the key. Event data 26 may also include data indicating the start date and time, stop date and time, and amount of asphalt 80 circulation by the circulation line 58.

[0044] Penetration data 28 is data relating to the measured values ​​of the asphalt penetration test. Penetration data 28 includes measured values ​​of the penetration test performed on asphalt before it was received into tank 50 and on asphalt after it was removed from tank 50. The penetration test can be measured in accordance with JIS K2207 (Petroleum Asphalt). Penetration is expressed as 1, where 0.1 mm is the length that a specified needle penetrates vertically into an asphalt sample at a specified temperature (25°C), and the unit is 1 / 10 mm.

[0045] Penetration data 28 includes data on penetration measured in the asphalt heating test. The heating test can be performed in accordance with the thin-film heating test specified in JIS K2207 (Petroleum Asphalt). In the thin-film heating test, an asphalt sample with a thickness of 3.2 mm is heated in a constant temperature air bath at 163°C for 5 hours, and the penetration of the asphalt sample is measured before and after heating. Penetration P of the asphalt sample before heating B Penetration P after heating A The ratio r = P A / P B This is called the penetration retention rate. Note that a rotary thin film heating test can be used instead of the thin film heating test specified in JIS.

[0046] Figure 3 is a graph showing the time dependence of penetration measured in a heating test. Figure 3 shows the results of a thin-film heating test in accordance with JIS K2207, and shows the penetration after heating of an asphalt sample with a film thickness of 3.2 mm in a constant temperature air bath at 163°C. The example in Figure 3 shows the test results when the heating time is varied in the range of 1 hour to 5 hours. As shown in Figure 3, it can be seen that the penetration of the asphalt sample decreases linearly with respect to heating time. Therefore, the rate of decrease in penetration per unit time (e.g., 1 hour) when the asphalt sample is heated can be considered constant regardless of the heating time. In other words, the rate of deterioration when the asphalt sample is heated can be considered constant regardless of the heating time. The rate of decrease in penetration ΔP, represented by the slope of the approximate straight line in Figure 3, is ΔP = 6.6 (1 / 10 mm / h).

[0047] Figure 4 is a table showing an example of penetration depth measured in a heating test set at multiple heating temperatures T. In the example in Figure 4, the heating temperatures T were set to 123°C, 143°C, 163°C, 183°C, and 198°C. Penetration depth P represents the penetration depth after heating a 3.2 mm thick asphalt sample in a constant temperature air bath set at heating temperature T for 5 hours. The penetration depth reduction rate ΔP is the value obtained by dividing the decrease in penetration depth from the initial penetration depth of 85 before heating by the heating time (5 hours). The degradation rate β is the penetration depth reduction rate ΔP normalized with the degradation rate β at the reference temperature (163°C) set to 1. ln(β) is the natural logarithm of the degradation rate β. As shown in Figure 4, the penetration depth reduction rate ΔP and the degradation rate β of the asphalt sample tend to increase as the heating temperature T increases.

[0048] Figure 5 is a graph showing an example of the temperature dependence of penetration depth measured in a heating test. Figure 5 is a graph with the reciprocal of the heating temperature T (1000 / T) from Figure 4 on the horizontal axis and the natural logarithm of the degradation rate β (ln(β)) from Figure 4 on the vertical axis. The unit of the heating temperature T in Figure 5 is Kelvin (K), not Celsius (°C). As shown in Figure 5, it can be seen that the reciprocal of the heating temperature T (1000 / T) and ln(β) are proportional. Therefore, the degradation rate β can be expressed using the Arrhenius equation as β(T) = A·exp(-E / RT). The penetration depth data 28 includes data on the temperature dependence of penetration depth measured in a heating test, and may include, for example, numerical data for the coefficients A and E / R used to calculate the degradation rate β. Specific values ​​of the coefficients A and E / R can be calculated from the graph shown in Figure 5.

[0049] The penetration data 28 may include data on the penetration reduction rate ΔP and the degradation rate β(T) of the asphalt sample. The penetration data 28 may include numerical data on the penetration reduction rate ΔP at a reference temperature (e.g., 163°C) of the asphalt sample. The penetration data 28 may include numerical data on coefficients A and E / R for calculating the degradation rate β(T), or it may include a numerical table relating the degradation rate β to the temperature T. The penetration data 28 may include data on the penetration reduction rate ΔP and the degradation rate β(T) calculated from heating tests on multiple asphalt samples.

[0050] Returning to Figure 2, the calculation unit 16 includes a deterioration rate calculation unit 30, a deterioration rate calculation unit 32, a deterioration degree estimation unit 34, and a penetration degree estimation unit 36.

[0051] The deterioration rate calculation unit 30 calculates the deterioration rate of the asphalt 80 per unit time in the tank 50. Here, the deterioration rate is the ratio of the amount of deteriorated portion to the total amount of asphalt 80 in the tank 50, and can be said to be the ratio of the amount of portion in contact with air 78. Volume can be used as the amount of asphalt 80. The total volume V0, which corresponds to the total amount of asphalt 80 in the tank 50, can be calculated, for example, using tank data 20 and storage amount data 22, as V0 = π(φ1 / 2) 2 It can be calculated using the formula for h. The degradation rate can also be calculated separately for the liquid level degradation rate R1 and the discharge degradation rate R2, as described later.

[0052] The deterioration rate calculation unit 30 calculates the volume V1 of the area near the liquid surface 84 and divides it by the total volume V0 of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 to calculate the liquid surface deterioration rate R1 = V1 / V0 in the area near the liquid surface 84. The volume V1 of the area near the liquid surface 84 is calculated using tank data 20 and storage amount data 22 as follows: V1 = π(φ1 / 2) 2The thickness h1 can be calculated using the formula for h1. Here, the thickness h1 of the portion 84 near the liquid surface can be set to 3.2 mm, which is the thickness of the asphalt sample in the thin film heating test. Note that the thickness h1 of the portion 84 near the liquid surface may be a value other than 3.2 mm, and can be set in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm. The thickness h1 of the portion 84 near the liquid surface can be appropriately adjusted using an optimization method to match the measured and estimated values ​​of the penetration of the asphalt 80 stored in the tank 50.

[0053] The deterioration rate calculation unit 30 calculates the volume V2 of the discharge flow section 86 and divides it by the total volume V0 of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 to calculate the discharge deterioration rate R2 = V2 / V0 in the discharge flow section 86. The volume V2 of the discharge flow section 86 is calculated using tank data 20 and storage volume data 22 as V2 = π(φ2 / 2) 2 The volume can be calculated using the formula for L. The volume V2 of the discharge flow section 86 may also be calculated using the formula V2 = f·√(2h² / g) with respect to the tank data 20 and the storage volume data 22.

[0054] Furthermore, instead of assuming that the entire discharge flow section 86 deteriorates, the discharge deterioration rate R2 may be calculated by assuming that only the area near the surface of the discharge flow section 86 deteriorates. In this case, if the thickness near the surface of the discharge flow section 86 is h3, the volume V3 contributing to the deterioration of the discharge flow section 86 can be calculated using the formula V3 = π(φ2 / 2)·L·h3. In this case, the discharge deterioration rate is R2 = V3 / V0. Here, the thickness h3 near the surface of the discharge flow section 86 can be the value of 3.2 mm, which is the thickness of the asphalt sample in the thin film heating test. The thickness h3 near the surface of the discharge flow section 86 may be a value other than 3.2 mm, and can be set in the range of 1 mm to 10 mm. The thickness h3 near the surface of the discharge flow section 86 can be appropriately adjusted using an optimization method to match the measured and estimated values ​​of the penetration of the asphalt 80 stored in the tank 50.

[0055] The deterioration rate calculation unit 30 determines that the discharge deterioration rate R2 = 0 when the liquid level 82 is located above the discharge port 56, that is, when the height h2 from the liquid level 82 to the discharge port 56 is 0 or less (i.e., h2 ≤ 0). This is because when the discharge port 56 is located below the liquid level 82, there is no discharge flow section 86 that comes into contact with the air 78 above the liquid level 82.

[0056] The deterioration rate calculation unit 32 calculates the deterioration rate of the asphalt 80 using the temperature data 24. The deterioration rate calculation unit 32 calculates the liquid surface deterioration rate β1 in the vicinity of the liquid surface 84 using the storage temperature T1 measured by the tank temperature sensor 68. The liquid surface deterioration rate β1 can be calculated using the temperature data 24 and the penetration data 28 by the formula β1 = A·exp(-E / RT1). The deterioration rate calculation unit 32 calculates the discharge deterioration rate β2 in the discharge flow section 86 using the transport temperature T2 measured by the line temperature sensor 70. The discharge deterioration rate β2 can be calculated using the temperature data 24 and the penetration data 28 by the formula β2 = A·exp(-E / RT2).

[0057] The deterioration degree estimation unit 34 calculates the degree of deterioration D of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 using the deterioration rate R calculated by the deterioration rate calculation unit 30, the deterioration rate β calculated by the deterioration rate calculation unit 32, and the elapsed time t. The deterioration degree estimation unit 34 calculates the first degree of deterioration D1 attributable to the area near the liquid surface 84 using the formula D1 = R1·β1·t1, based on the liquid surface deterioration rate R1, the liquid surface deterioration rate β1, and the storage time t1 corresponding to the storage period. The deterioration degree estimation unit 34 calculates the second degree of deterioration D2 attributable to the discharge flow section 86 using the formula D2 = R2·β2·t2, based on the discharge deterioration rate R2, the discharge deterioration rate β2, and the cumulative discharge time t2 during the storage period. The deterioration degree estimation unit 34 calculates the overall degree of deterioration D = D1 + D2 of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 by adding the first degree of deterioration D1 and the second degree of deterioration D2.

[0058] Here, the cumulative discharge time t2 is the cumulative value of the time during which the discharge flow section 86 is formed. If the discharge flow section 86 is constantly formed, the cumulative discharge time t2 is the same as the storage time t1. If the discharge flow section 86 is formed intermittently, for example, if circulation by the circulation line 58 is temporarily stopped, the cumulative discharge time t2 is less than the storage time t1. For example, if circulation by the circulation line 58 starts and stops at predetermined intervals, the cumulative discharge time t2 is half of the storage time t1. The storage time t1 and the cumulative discharge time t2 can be calculated, for example, using event data 26.

[0059] The degree of deterioration D estimated by the degree of deterioration estimation unit 34 is an index corresponding to the heating time in a thin film heating test at a reference temperature (e.g., 163°C). In other words, the degree of deterioration D means that deterioration occurs that corresponds to the decrease in penetration when the asphalt sample is heated at the reference temperature (e.g., 163°C) for a heating time that matches the degree of deterioration D. The degree of deterioration D is proportional to the deterioration rate R and changes according to the volume percentage that deteriorates due to contact with air 78. The degree of deterioration D is proportional to the deterioration rate β and changes according to the deterioration rate β, which depends on the temperature of the asphalt 80. The degree of deterioration D is proportional to the elapsed time t and changes according to the elapsed time t.

[0060] The degradation degree estimation unit 34 may calculate the degradation degree D using time-series data of the storage quantity data 22 and the temperature data 24. The degradation degree estimation unit 34 may calculate the time-series data of the degradation degree D by calculating the degradation degree D for each acquisition timing of the storage quantity data 22 and the temperature data 24. The degradation degree estimation unit 34 may calculate the degradation degree D over the entire storage period by integrating the time-series data of the degradation degree D over the storage period.

[0061] The deterioration rate estimation unit 34 may use the deterioration rate β obtained from the measured values ​​of a heating test on the asphalt 80 in the tank 50, or it may use the deterioration rate β obtained from the measured values ​​of a heating test on asphalt different from the asphalt 80 in the tank 50. For example, a deterioration rate β corresponding to the type of asphalt may be used, or a deterioration rate β may be calculated for each numerical range of the initial penetration degree of the asphalt, and the deterioration rate β corresponding to the initial penetration degree of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 may be used.

[0062] The penetration degree estimation unit 36 ​​estimates the decrease in the penetration degree of the asphalt 80 stored in the tank 50 using the degree of deterioration D estimated by the degree of deterioration estimation unit 34 and the penetration degree data 28. The penetration degree estimation unit 36 ​​calculates the decrease in penetration degree by multiplying the degree of deterioration D by the penetration degree decrease rate ΔP. Since the degree of deterioration D corresponds to the heating time in the thin film heating test, the decrease in penetration degree can be calculated by multiplying it by the penetration degree decrease rate ΔP per unit time in the thin film heating test.

[0063] The penetration rate estimation unit 36 ​​may use the penetration rate reduction rate ΔP obtained from the measured values ​​of the heating test on the asphalt 80 in the tank 50, or it may use the penetration rate reduction rate ΔP obtained from the measured values ​​of the heating test on asphalt different from the asphalt 80 in the tank. For example, a penetration rate reduction rate ΔP corresponding to the type of asphalt may be used, or a penetration rate reduction rate ΔP may be calculated for each numerical range of the initial penetration rate of the asphalt, and the penetration rate reduction rate ΔP corresponding to the initial penetration rate of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 may be used.

[0064] The penetration degree estimation unit 36 ​​estimates the penetration degree P of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 using the initial penetration degree P0 of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50. The penetration degree estimation unit 36 ​​can calculate the penetration degree P using the formula P = P0 - D·ΔP. The initial penetration degree P0 can be calculated using the measured value of the penetration degree test of the asphalt before it is received into the tank 50. When the second asphalt is injected into the first asphalt present in the tank 50 from the inlet 52 and mixed, the initial penetration degree P0 of the mixed asphalt can be calculated by weighting the penetration degree P1 of the first asphalt and the initial penetration degree P2 of the second asphalt. Here, the penetration degree P1 of the first asphalt may be a measured value or an estimated value estimated by the penetration degree estimation unit 36.

[0065] The output unit 18 outputs the processing result of the calculation unit 16. The output unit 18 may output the processing result to a user terminal 42 or local device 44 via the network 40, or to any output device such as a display connected to the information processing device 10. The output unit 18 may output the degree of degradation D estimated by the degree of degradation estimation unit 34, or the degree of penetration P estimated by the degree of penetration estimation unit 36. The output unit 18 may output time-series data of the estimated degree of degradation D and degree of penetration P, or it may output graph data showing the degree of degradation D and degree of penetration P against the time axis. The output unit 18 may output estimation results that distinguish the contributions of the first degree of degradation D1 and the second degree of degradation D2, respectively. The output unit 18 may output the timing at which the estimated degree of degradation D or degree of penetration P reaches a predetermined threshold.

[0066] Figure 6 is a graph showing an example of the estimated result of the penetration depth P, and is an example of the output result of the output unit 18. Figure 6 shows the first date and time t A This shows the time-series data of the penetration depth P of asphalt 80, which was stored from the second date and time t. B This is the current date and time, and the estimated penetration P=84.6 at the current date and time is displayed. 3rd date and time t C This is a predetermined threshold P th This is the date and time of arrival, and in the example in Figure 6, P th=80 is set. The graph in Figure 6 is displayed, allowing you to understand the estimated current penetration depth in tank 50, as well as the predetermined threshold P th You can understand when you will reach that point.

[0067] Figure 7 is a graph comparing estimated and measured penetration values. The estimated value is the penetration value estimated by the penetration estimation unit 36, and the measured value is the value obtained by conducting a penetration test on asphalt 80 taken from the tank 50. The storage period in the tank 50 varied depending on the plot, ranging from one week to about three months. The graph in Figure 7 includes plots where deterioration by the discharge flow section 86 contributed and plots where deterioration by the discharge flow section 86 did not contribute. The straight line in Figure 7 is a straight line with a slope of 1 where the estimated value and the measured value coincide. The fact that the plots are aligned along the straight line in Figure 7 indicates that the penetration of the asphalt 80 can be estimated with high accuracy.

[0068] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating a deterioration estimation method according to an embodiment. The deterioration rate calculation unit 30 calculates the liquid level deterioration rate R1 using the tank data 20 and the storage amount data 22 (S10). The deterioration rate calculation unit 32 calculates the liquid level deterioration rate β1 using the temperature data 24 (S12). The deterioration degree estimation unit 34 calculates the first deterioration degree D1 of the asphalt 80 after a predetermined period of time using the liquid level deterioration rate R1 and the liquid level deterioration rate β1 (S14).

[0069] If the height h2 of the discharge port 56 of the tank 50 is greater than the height h of the liquid level 82 of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 (i.e., h2 > h) (Y in S16), the deterioration rate calculation unit 30 calculates the discharge deterioration rate R2 using the tank data 20 and the storage amount data 22 (S18). The deterioration rate calculation unit 32 calculates the discharge deterioration rate β2 using the temperature data 24 (S20). The deterioration degree estimation unit 34 calculates the second deterioration degree D2 of the asphalt 80 after a predetermined period of time using the discharge deterioration rate R2 and the discharge deterioration rate β2 (S22). The deterioration degree estimation unit 34 may further calculate the second deterioration degree D2 using the event data 26. In S16, if the height h2 of the discharge port 56 of the tank 50 is less than or equal to the height h of the liquid level 82 of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 (i.e., h2 ≤ h) (N in S16), the processing in S18 to S22 is skipped.

[0070] Next, the penetration degree estimation unit 36 ​​estimates the penetration degree of the asphalt 80 after a predetermined period of time using the penetration degree data 28 and the calculated degree of deterioration (S24). If both the first degree of deterioration D1 and the second degree of deterioration D2 have been calculated, the penetration degree estimation unit 36 ​​estimates the penetration degree P using the degree of deterioration D, which is the sum of the first degree of deterioration D1 and the second degree of deterioration D2. If the second degree of deterioration D2 has not been calculated, the penetration degree estimation unit 36 ​​uses the first degree of deterioration D1 as the degree of deterioration D and estimates the penetration degree P using the degree of deterioration D.

[0071] The present disclosure has been described above based on embodiments. These embodiments are illustrative, and it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications are possible for each component or combination of processing steps, and that such modifications are also within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0072] In the above-described embodiment, if the temperature of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 is constant and temperature dependence does not need to be considered, the degree of deterioration D may be estimated without using the deterioration rate β.

[0073] In the above-described embodiment, the case in which the tank 50 is provided with one discharge port 56 was explained. If the tank 50 is provided with multiple discharge ports 56, the overall degree of deterioration of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 may be estimated by calculating and adding up the second degree of deterioration for each of the multiple discharge ports 56. Alternatively, if the tank 50 is not provided with discharge ports 56, the overall degree of deterioration of the asphalt 80 in the tank 50 may be estimated using only the first degree of deterioration, without using the second degree of deterioration.

[0074] The embodiment may be a program for a computer to implement the functions for realizing the above-described method, or it may be a recording medium for storing the program. Such a recording medium for storing the program may be a non-transitory and tangible computer-readable storage medium, and may be a non-volatile memory, a magnetic recording medium such as a magnetic tape or magnetic disk, or an optical recording medium such as an optical disk.

[0075] Several aspects of this disclosure are described below.

[0076] A first aspect of this disclosure is an information processing device comprising: a deterioration rate calculation unit that calculates the deterioration rate per unit time of asphalt in a tank using tank data relating to the structure of a tank in which asphalt is stored and storage amount data relating to the amount of asphalt stored in the tank; and a deterioration rate estimation unit that estimates the degree of deterioration of the asphalt in the tank after a predetermined period of time using the calculated deterioration rate. According to the first aspect, the accuracy of estimating the degree of deterioration of asphalt can be improved by estimating the degree of deterioration using a deterioration rate calculated according to the structure of the tank and the amount of asphalt stored in the tank.

[0077] A second aspect of this disclosure is an information processing device according to the first aspect, further comprising a penetration estimation unit that estimates the amount of decrease in the penetration of asphalt in the tank due to the passage of a predetermined period of time, using the estimated degree of deterioration and penetration data relating to measurements of an asphalt penetration test. According to the second aspect, the amount of decrease in the penetration of asphalt can be estimated using the estimated degree of deterioration.

[0078] A third aspect of this disclosure is an information processing device according to the second aspect, wherein the penetration degree estimation unit estimates the penetration degree of the asphalt in the tank after a predetermined period of time has elapsed, using the initial penetration degree of the asphalt in the tank. According to the third aspect, the penetration degree of deteriorated asphalt can be estimated.

[0079] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device according to any one of the first to third aspects, further comprising a deterioration rate calculation unit that calculates the deterioration rate of asphalt in the tank using temperature data relating to the temperature of asphalt in the tank, and a deterioration degree estimation unit that further estimates the degree of deterioration using the calculated deterioration rate. According to the fourth aspect, the temperature dependence of asphalt deterioration can be taken into consideration, and the accuracy of estimating the degree of asphalt deterioration can be improved.

[0080] A fifth aspect of this disclosure is an information processing device according to the fourth aspect, wherein the deterioration rate calculation unit calculates a deterioration rate corresponding to the temperature of the asphalt in the tank based on the temperature dependence of the penetration degree measured in the heating test of the asphalt. According to the fifth aspect, the accuracy of estimating the degree of deterioration of the asphalt can be improved by taking into account the temperature dependence obtained from the measurement results of the heating test.

[0081] A sixth aspect of this disclosure is an information processing device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, wherein the deterioration rate calculation unit calculates the deterioration rate by dividing the amount of asphalt in the portion of the tank that is in contact with the air by the amount of asphalt stored in the tank. According to the sixth aspect, the accuracy of estimating the deterioration rate of the entire asphalt in the tank can be improved by estimating the degree of deterioration using the proportion of asphalt in the portion of the tank that is in contact with the air.

[0082] A seventh aspect of this disclosure is an information processing device according to the sixth aspect, wherein the deterioration rate calculation unit calculates a liquid surface deterioration rate by dividing the amount of asphalt in the portion of the asphalt in the tank that is in contact with air at the liquid surface by the amount of asphalt stored in the tank, and the deterioration degree estimation unit estimates the degree of deterioration using the liquid surface deterioration rate. According to the seventh aspect, by estimating the degree of deterioration using the proportion of the asphalt near the liquid surface in the tank, the accuracy of estimating the degree of deterioration of the entire asphalt in the tank can be improved.

[0083] An eighth aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device according to the seventh aspect, further comprising a deterioration rate calculation unit that calculates the liquid surface deterioration rate at which the asphalt deteriorates at the liquid surface using the storage temperature of the asphalt in the tank, and a deterioration degree estimation unit that estimates the degree of deterioration using the liquid surface deterioration ratio and the liquid surface deterioration rate. According to the eighth aspect, the temperature of the asphalt near the liquid surface in the tank can be taken into consideration, and the accuracy of estimating the degree of deterioration of the asphalt can be improved.

[0084] A ninth aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device according to any one of the sixth to eighth aspects, wherein the deterioration rate calculation unit calculates a discharge deterioration rate by dividing the amount of asphalt that comes into contact with air during the process of being injected from the discharge port of the tank toward the liquid surface of the asphalt in the tank by the amount of asphalt stored in the tank, and the deterioration degree estimation unit further estimates the degree of deterioration using the discharge deterioration rate. According to the ninth aspect, the accuracy of estimating the degree of deterioration of the entire asphalt in the tank can be improved by estimating the degree of deterioration using the proportion of the discharge flow portion injected from the discharge port of the tank toward the liquid surface.

[0085] A tenth aspect of this disclosure is an information processing device according to the ninth aspect, wherein the deterioration rate calculation unit calculates the discharge deterioration rate according to at least one of the shape of the discharge port, the size of the discharge port, the amount of asphalt discharged at the discharge port, and the height from the liquid surface to the discharge port. According to the tenth aspect, it is possible to calculate the proportion of the discharge flow section according to changes in the shape and size of the discharge flow section, thereby improving the accuracy of estimating the degree of deterioration.

[0086] An eleventh aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device according to the ninth or tenth aspect, further comprising a deterioration rate calculation unit that calculates the discharge deterioration rate at which the asphalt deteriorates during the process of being injected from the discharge port toward the liquid surface, using the discharge temperature of the asphalt at the discharge port, and the deterioration degree estimation unit that estimates the degree of deterioration using the discharge deterioration ratio and the discharge deterioration rate. According to the eleventh aspect, the temperature of the discharge flow section can be taken into consideration, and the accuracy of estimating the degree of deterioration of the asphalt can be improved.

[0087] A twelfth aspect of the present disclosure is an information processing device according to any one of the ninth to eleventh aspects, wherein the deterioration degree estimation unit further estimates the degree of deterioration using the cumulative time during which asphalt is discharged from the discharge port within the predetermined period. According to the twelfth aspect, by using the cumulative time during which the discharge flow section is formed, the contribution of deterioration in the discharge flow section can be considered more appropriately, and the accuracy of the deterioration degree estimation can be improved.

[0088] A thirteenth aspect of this disclosure is a deterioration estimation method comprising: calculating the rate of deterioration of asphalt per unit time in a tank using tank data relating to the structure of a tank in which asphalt is stored and storage data relating to the amount of asphalt stored in the tank; and estimating the degree of deterioration of the asphalt in the tank after a predetermined period of time using the calculated deterioration rate. According to the thirteenth aspect, the accuracy of estimating the degree of deterioration of asphalt can be improved by estimating the degree of deterioration using a deterioration rate calculated according to the structure of the tank and the amount of asphalt stored in the tank.

[0089] A fourteenth aspect of this disclosure is a program that enables a computer to perform the following functions: a function to calculate the rate of deterioration of asphalt per unit time in a tank using tank data relating to the structure of a tank in which asphalt is stored, and storage amount data relating to the amount of asphalt stored in the tank; and a function to estimate the degree of deterioration of the asphalt in the tank after a predetermined period of time using the calculated rate of deterioration. According to the fourteenth aspect, the accuracy of estimating the degree of deterioration of asphalt can be improved by estimating the degree of deterioration using the rate of deterioration calculated according to the structure of the tank and the amount of asphalt stored in the tank.

[0090] Any combination of the configurations relating to the embodiments or aspects described above is also useful as an embodiment of the present disclosure. The new embodiments resulting from the combinations will have the combined effects of the respective embodiments and modifications. Furthermore, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that the functions to be performed by each component described in the claims can be achieved by each component shown in the embodiments and modifications individually or in combination thereof. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0091] 10...Information processing device, 12...Acquisition unit, 14...Storage unit, 16...Calculation unit, 18...Output unit, 20...Tank data, 22...Storage quantity data, 24...Temperature data, 26...Event data, 28...Penetration depth data, 30...Deterioration rate calculation unit, 32...Deterioration rate calculation unit, 34...Deterioration degree estimation unit, 36...Penetration depth estimation unit, 50...Tank, 52...Inlet, 54...Outlet, 56...Discharge port, 58...Circulation line, 60...Pump, 62...Tank heater, 64...Line heater, 66...Agitator, 68...Tank temperature sensor, 70...Line temperature sensor, 72...Level sensor, 78...Air, 80...Asphalt, 82...Liquid surface, 84...Near liquid surface, 86...Discharge flow section, 90...Storage device.

Claims

1. A deterioration rate calculation unit calculates the deterioration rate of asphalt per unit time in the tank using tank data relating to the structure of the tank in which asphalt is stored and storage amount data relating to the amount of asphalt stored in the tank. An information processing device comprising: a deterioration degree estimation unit that estimates the degree of deterioration of the asphalt in the tank after a predetermined period of time using the aforementioned calculated deterioration rate.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising a penetration degree estimation unit that estimates the amount of decrease in the penetration degree of the asphalt in the tank due to the passage of a predetermined period of time, using the estimated degree of deterioration and penetration degree data relating to the measured value of the asphalt penetration degree test.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the penetration degree estimation unit estimates the penetration degree of the asphalt in the tank after the predetermined period has elapsed, using the initial penetration degree of the asphalt in the tank.

4. The system further includes a deterioration rate calculation unit that calculates the deterioration rate of the asphalt in the tank using temperature data relating to the temperature of the asphalt in the tank. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the degradation degree estimation unit further estimates the degradation degree using the calculated degradation rate.

5. The information processing device according to claim 4, wherein the deterioration rate calculation unit calculates a deterioration rate corresponding to the temperature of the asphalt in the tank based on the temperature dependence of the penetration degree measured in the heating test of the asphalt.

6. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the deterioration rate calculation unit calculates the deterioration rate by dividing the amount of asphalt in the part of the tank that is in contact with air by the amount of asphalt stored in the tank.

7. The deterioration rate calculation unit calculates the liquid surface deterioration rate by dividing the amount of asphalt in the portion of the liquid surface of the asphalt in the tank that is in contact with the air by the amount of asphalt stored in the tank. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the deterioration degree estimation unit estimates the degree of deterioration using the liquid level deterioration ratio.

8. The system further includes a deterioration rate calculation unit that calculates the liquid surface deterioration rate at which the asphalt deteriorates at the liquid surface, using the storage temperature of the asphalt in the tank. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the deterioration degree estimation unit estimates the degree of deterioration using the liquid level deterioration ratio and the liquid level deterioration rate.

9. The deterioration rate calculation unit calculates the discharge deterioration rate by dividing the amount of asphalt that comes into contact with air during the process of being injected from the discharge port of the tank toward the liquid surface of the asphalt in the tank by the amount of asphalt stored in the tank. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the degradation degree estimation unit further estimates the degradation degree using the discharge degradation ratio.

10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the deterioration rate calculation unit calculates the discharge deterioration rate according to at least one of the shape of the discharge port, the size of the discharge port, the amount of asphalt discharged at the discharge port, and the height from the liquid surface to the discharge port.

11. The system further includes a deterioration rate calculation unit that calculates the discharge deterioration rate of the asphalt as it deteriorates during the process of being injected from the discharge port toward the liquid surface, using the discharge temperature of the asphalt at the discharge port. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the degradation degree estimation unit estimates the degradation degree using the discharge degradation ratio and the discharge degradation rate.

12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the deterioration degree estimation unit further estimates the deterioration degree using the cumulative time during which asphalt is discharged from the discharge port within the predetermined period.

13. Using tank data relating to the structure of the tank in which asphalt is stored, and storage volume data relating to the amount of asphalt stored in the tank, the rate of deterioration of the asphalt per unit time in the tank is calculated. A deterioration estimation method comprising: estimating the degree of deterioration of the asphalt in the tank after a predetermined period of time using the deterioration rate calculated above.

14. A function to calculate the rate of deterioration of asphalt per unit time in a tank using tank data relating to the structure of the tank in which asphalt is stored and storage volume data relating to the amount of asphalt stored in the tank, A program that enables a computer to perform a function that estimates the degree of deterioration of the asphalt in the tank after a predetermined period of time, using the aforementioned calculated deterioration rate.

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