Maintenance management system and method for an automated egg processing device

Abstract

To provide a maintenance management system for a hen egg processing system, which can appropriately determine replacement time of a consumable component or the like and can appropriately guide maintenance timing, consequently enables shortening of time related to maintenance work.SOLUTION: A maintenance management system includes a first maintenance management device 30 connected to the i-th device (i=1 to n) of a hen egg processing system 1 through a communication network 101, a second maintenance management device 50 connected to the hen egg processing system 1 through the communication networks 101, 501, and a third maintenance management device 60 connected to the first maintenance management device 30 and / or the second maintenance management device 50 through the communication networks 101, 501, 601. Each of the first maintenance management device 30, the second maintenance management device 50 and / or the third maintenance management device 60 comprises a receiving portion receiving from the i-th device, basic information to be used to determine maintenance and identification information of the i-th device, and a storage portion storing the basic information and the identification information received by the receiving portion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

Technical Field

[0003]

[0001] The present invention relates to a maintenance management system and method for an automatic egg processing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] In an egg processing apparatus, in large-scale egg sorting and packaging facilities (such as GP centers), eggs are processed in amounts of several tons to several tens of tons per day. Therefore, the operating frequency of each part of each apparatus is very high. Conventionally, replacement of consumable parts and adjustment of each part have been carried out through regular maintenance on a monthly or annual basis. However, usage patterns and operating frequencies vary widely, and a uniform maintenance frequency may not be appropriate in some cases. In the egg industry, where tens of thousands of eggs need to be processed at high speed per hour, any downtime due to equipment malfunctions will result in losses such as overtime labor and a decrease in the number of processed eggs per day. For this reason, equipment manufacturing aims at long-term stable operation in design and manufacturing, but in order to cope with the recent enlargement of equipment and diversification of functions, more complex structures and controls are essential.

[0003] Also, in large-scale egg sorting and packaging facilities (such as GP centers), improving the yield is a crucial issue directly related to management. Therefore, it is required to suppress a decrease in the operating rate due to failures and maintenance.

[0004] Patent Document 1 discloses an automatic egg processing apparatus for automatically processing eggs, which includes a management computer for managing a plurality of automatic egg processing apparatuses and a communication line for connecting the automatic egg processing apparatus and the management computer. When an abnormality occurs in the operation of the automatic egg processing apparatus, the abnormality occurrence data is transmitted to the management computer, the cause of the abnormality occurrence is specified from the abnormality occurrence data, and a repair method is taught based on the specified cause of the abnormality occurrence.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

[0006] Therefore, this disclosure provides a maintenance management system and method for an automated egg processing device that can appropriately determine the timing for replacing consumable parts, appropriately guide maintenance timing, and shorten the time involved in maintenance work. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The maintenance management system used in the egg processing system of this disclosure is The first maintenance management device (30) is connected to the i-th device (i=1~n) of the egg processing system (1) via a communication network (101), The egg processing system (1) and the second maintenance management device (50) are connected via a communication network (101, 501), The system includes a third maintenance management device (60) connected to the first maintenance management device (30) and / or the second maintenance management device (50) via a communication network (101, 501, 601). i is an integer from 1 to n, where n is set by the size and type of the egg processing system (1).

[0008] (Sending, receiving, and storing basic information) The first maintenance management device (30) is, A first receiving unit (31) receives basic information used for determining maintenance and identification information of the i-th device (e.g., control unit, detection unit, etc.) from the i-th device (e.g., control unit, detection unit, etc.) (e.g., control unit identification information, detection unit identification information, etc.), A first storage unit (32) that stores the basic information and identification information received by the first receiving unit (31), The system may also include a first transmitting unit (311) that transmits the basic information and the identification information to the second maintenance management device (50) and / or the third maintenance management device (60). The second maintenance management device (50) and / or the third maintenance management device (60) include second and third receiving units (51, 61) that receive the basic information and identification information transmitted from the first maintenance management device (30), The system may also include second and third storage units (52, 62) that store the basic information and identification information received by the second and third receiving units (51, 61). The second maintenance management device (50) may include a second transmission unit (511) that transmits the basic information and the identification information to the third maintenance management device (60). The third receiving unit (61) of the third maintenance management device (60) receives the basic information and identification information transmitted from the second maintenance management device (50), and the third storage unit (62) may store the basic information and identification information received by the third receiving unit (61).

[0009] (Analysis of basic information) The first maintenance management device (30) is, A first determination unit (35) determines the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a first determination result, A second determination unit (36) determines the replacement parts and replacement timing from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a second determination result, and / or, The system may also include a third determination unit (37) that determines operational abnormalities (for example, current abnormalities, potential future abnormalities, etc.) from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a third determination result. The first maintenance management device (30) may include a first display unit (33) that displays the first judgment result, the second judgment result, and / or the third judgment result in association with the identification information. The first storage unit (32) may store the first judgment result, the second judgment result, and / or the third judgment result in association with the identification information. The first transmission unit (311) may transmit the first judgment result, the second judgment result, and / or the third judgment result in association with the identification information to the second maintenance management device (50) and / or the third maintenance management device (60). The second and third receiving units (51, 61) may receive the first judgment result, second judgment result, and / or third judgment result sent from the first maintenance management device (30) in association with the identification information and store them in the second and third storage units (52, 62). The second maintenance management device (50) is, A first determination unit (55) determines the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a first determination result, A second determination unit (56) determines the replacement parts and replacement timing from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a second determination result, and / or, The system may also include a third determination unit (57) that determines operational abnormalities (for example, current abnormalities, potential future abnormalities, etc.) from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a third determination result. The second maintenance management device (50) may include a second display unit (53) that displays the first judgment result, the second judgment result, and / or the third judgment result in association with the identification information. The second storage unit (52) may store the first judgment result, the second judgment result, and / or the third judgment result in association with the identification information. The second transmission unit (511) may transmit the first judgment result, the second judgment result, and / or the third judgment result in association with the identification information to the first maintenance management device (30) and / or the third maintenance management device (60). The first and third receiving units (31, 61) may receive the first judgment result, second judgment result, and / or third judgment result sent from the second maintenance management device (50) in association with the identification information and store them in the first and third storage units (32, 62). The third maintenance management device (60) is, A first determination unit (65) determines the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a first determination result, A second determination unit (66) determines the replacement parts and replacement timing from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a second determination result, and / or, The system may also include a third determination unit (67) that determines operational abnormalities (for example, current abnormalities, potential future abnormalities, etc.) from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a third determination result. The third maintenance management device (60) may include a third display unit (63) that displays the first judgment result, the second judgment result, and / or the third judgment result in association with the identification information. The third storage unit (62) may store the first judgment result, the second judgment result, and / or the third judgment result in association with the identification information. The third transmission unit (611) may transmit the first judgment result, the second judgment result, and / or the third judgment result in association with the identification information to the first maintenance management device (30) and / or the second maintenance management device (50). The first and second receiving units (31, 51) may receive the first judgment result, second judgment result, and / or third judgment result sent from the third maintenance management device (60) in association with the identification information and store them in the first and second storage units (32, 52).

[0010] The first determination unit (35) may compare the basic information with the first determination conditions to determine the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content. The second determination unit (36) may compare the basic information with the second determination conditions to determine the replacement parts and the timing of replacement. The third determination unit (37) may compare the basic information with the third determination condition and determine if there is an operational abnormality.

[0011] (Using a learned model) The first determination unit (35) may input the basic information into a first determination learning model created by intelligent information technology using the data constituting the basic information and teacher data including past maintenance times and contents, and estimate and output the maintenance times and contents. The second determination unit (36) may input the basic information into a second determination learning model created by intelligent information technology using the data constituting the basic information and teacher data including past replacement parts and replacement times, and estimate and output the replacement parts and replacement times. The third determination unit (37) may input the basic information into a third determination learning model created by intelligent information technology using the data constituting the basic information and teacher data including past operation abnormalities, and estimate and output the operation abnormalities. "Intelligent information processing technology" includes, for example, machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning, deep reinforcement learning, etc. The algorithms of machine learning, deep learning, reinforcement learning, and deep reinforcement learning are not particularly limited, and conventional algorithms may be used. As supervised learning, for example, various algorithms such as linear regression, generalized linear model, support vector regression, Gaussian process regression, ensemble method, decision tree, neural network, support vector machine, discriminant analysis, naive Bayes, and nearest neighbor method may be adopted. Each determination unit may read out each learning model from a storage unit in which each learning model is stored and execute it with one or more processors. The processor may be configured to have one or more of, for example, a CPU, MPU, GPU, etc.

[0012] (Operation history data) The first maintenance management device (30) a first operation history creation unit (381) that creates first operation history data of the i-th device corresponding to the first determination result; a second operation history creation unit (382) that creates second operation history data of the i-th device corresponding to the second determination result; and / or The system may also include a third operation history creation unit (383) that creates third operation history data for the i-device in accordance with the third determination result. The first storage unit (32) may store the first, second, and third operation history data. The first display unit (33) may display the first, second, and third operation history data. The first transmission unit (311) may transmit the first, second, and third judgment results and / or the first, second, and third operation history data to the second maintenance management device (50) and / or the third maintenance management device (60). The second maintenance management device (50) is, A first operation history creation unit (581) creates first operation history data for the i device in accordance with the first judgment result, A second operation history creation unit (582) that creates second operation history data for the i device in accordance with the second determination result, and / or The system may also include a third operation history creation unit (583) that creates third operation history data for the i-device in accordance with the third determination result. The second storage unit (52) may store the first, second, and third operation history data. The second display unit (53) may display the first, second, and third operation history data. The second transmission unit (511) may transmit the first, second, and third judgment results and / or the first, second, and third operation history data to the first maintenance management device (30) and / or the third maintenance management device (60). The third maintenance management device (60) is, A first operation history creation unit (681) creates first operation history data for the i-device in accordance with the first judgment result, A second operation history creation unit (682) that creates second operation history data for the i device in accordance with the second determination result, and / or The system may also include a third operation history creation unit (683) that creates third operation history data for the i-device in accordance with the third determination result. The third storage unit (62) may store the first, second, and third operation history data. The third display unit (63) may display the first, second, and third operation history data. The third transmission unit (611) may transmit the first, second, and third judgment results and / or the first, second, and third operation history data to the first maintenance management device (30) and / or the second maintenance management device (50).

[0013] (Data sharing) The first transmission unit (311) of the first maintenance management device (30), the second transmission unit (511) of the second maintenance management device (50), and / or the third transmission unit (611) of the third maintenance management device (60) are: The first judgment result, second judgment result and / or third judgment result associated with the identification information, the first operation history data, the second operation history data and / or third operation history data may be transmitted to an external device (40). The external device (40) may consist of, for example, a mobile terminal (mobile PC, smartphone, tablet). The third maintenance management device (60) may be connected to one or more first maintenance management devices (30) and one or more second maintenance management devices (50). The third maintenance management device (60) is configured to receive and store the above-mentioned basic information, judgment results, and operation history data from one or more egg processing systems. The third maintenance management device (60) is, The system may have a judgment condition update unit that analyzes past basic information, each judgment result, and each operation history data to update the first, second, and third judgment conditions. The updated first, second, and third judgment conditions may be sent to the first and second maintenance management devices (30, 50), and each judgment condition used by each management device may be updated. The third maintenance management device (60) is, The first, second, and third decision learning models may be updated using intelligent information technology with training data that includes past basic information, each decision result, and each operation history data. The updated first, second, and third decision learning models may be sent to the first and second maintenance management devices (30, 50), and each decision learning model used in each management device may be updated.

[0014] The basic information used to determine maintenance is, for example, maintenance-use information collected from each device and its control unit (e.g., PLC (Programmable Logic Controller)) and detection unit (e.g., various sensors). The aforementioned basic information includes, for example, total operating time (operating time of the control unit, operating time of the conveyor, etc.), the number of times each device is turned ON / OFF, the energizing time of each device, motor rotation speed, motor load rate, number of encoder operations, number of solenoid operations, number of uses of each maintenance function such as cleaning mode, number of uses and duration of use of the weighing device, number of uses and number of changes in the operating mode of the sorting and packaging device, number of sensor operations of each inspection device, energizing time of the light source, number of operations of various sensors, vibration data of each device, temperature data of each device, sound (noise, abnormal noise, vibration sound) data of each device, image data of each device or part, chain elongation, number of air cylinder operations, number of electric actuator operations, filter pressure loss, conveyor travel distance, brush wear, flow rate and pressure of egg washing water and rinse water, number of emergency stop button operations, number of times adhesive tape is used (container sealing), and number of box sealings.

[0015] The first, second, and third maintenance management devices (30, 50, and 60) may be composed of, for example, information processing devices. The information processing devices may be composed of, for example, computers, cloud servers, on-premise servers, mobile terminals (mobile PCs, smartphones, tablets), etc.

[0016] The storage unit may be a non-volatile memory such as an EPROM, HDD, SSD, or NAS, or a volatile memory such as DRAM. If data needs to be retained, it is preferable to use non-volatile memory. The display unit is not particularly limited, and examples include LCD monitors, OLED monitors, CRT monitors, smartphones, tablets, and general-purpose personal computer monitors. The receiving unit and transmitting unit are composed of wired communication means and wireless communication means, and are configured to communicate data with external devices (server, external storage device).

[0017] The egg processing system is comprised of, for example, a first conveying device for raw eggs, an egg washing device, a first inspection device, a first rejection device, a second rejection device, a drying device, a direction alignment device, a second inspection device, a third rejection device, a weighing device, a sorting and packaging device, a third inspection device, a palletizer, and a conveying device connecting each device section. The downstream equipment of the egg processing system is changed according to the final product's shipping form (container, rack, box, pallet). Furthermore, the upstream equipment is changed according to the raw egg supply form (tray, rack, raw eggs supplied directly from the poultry farm). In addition, the weighing device, inspection device, and rejection device are also composed of various devices depending on the system configuration.

[0018] Other disclosed methods for maintaining and managing egg processing systems are performed by an information processing device. A first decision step that determines the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content from the basic information used to make maintenance decisions and outputs a first decision result, A second decision step that determines the replacement parts and replacement timing from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a second decision result, and / or, The system includes a third decision step which determines operational abnormalities (for example, current abnormalities, potential future abnormalities, etc.) from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a third decision result. The aforementioned maintenance management method is: The first decision step compares the basic information with the first decision conditions to determine the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content. The second decision step compares the basic information with the second decision conditions to determine the replacement parts and replacement timing. The third judgment step may involve comparing the basic information with the third judgment condition to determine if there is an operational abnormality. The aforementioned maintenance management method is: The first decision step involves inputting the basic information into a first decision learning model created by intelligent information technology using the data constituting the basic information and training data including past maintenance periods and content, thereby estimating and outputting the maintenance period and content. The second decision step involves inputting the basic information into a second decision learning model created by intelligent information technology using the data constituting the basic information and training data including past replacement parts and replacement timings, thereby estimating and outputting the replacement parts and replacement timings. The third decision step may involve inputting the basic information into a third decision learning model created by intelligent information technology using the data constituting the basic information and training data including past malfunctions, in order to estimate and output malfunctions.

[0019] Other disclosed egg processing system maintenance management programs include: Information processing devices (computers, servers, mobile terminals) A first decision step that determines the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content from the basic information used to make maintenance decisions and outputs a first decision result, A second decision step that determines the replacement parts and replacement timing from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a second decision result, and / or, This program implements a third decision step that determines operational abnormalities (for example, current abnormalities, potential future abnormalities, etc.) from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a third decision result. The first decision step compares the basic information with the first decision conditions to determine the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content. The second decision step compares the basic information with the second decision conditions to determine the replacement parts and replacement timing. The third judgment step may involve comparing the basic information with the third judgment condition to determine if there is an operational abnormality. The first decision step involves inputting the basic information into a first decision learning model created by intelligent information technology using the data constituting the basic information and training data including past maintenance periods and content, thereby estimating and outputting the maintenance period and content. The second decision step involves inputting the basic information into a second decision learning model created by intelligent information technology using the data constituting the basic information and training data including past replacement parts and replacement timings, thereby estimating and outputting the replacement parts and replacement timings. The third decision step may involve inputting the basic information into a third decision learning model created by intelligent information technology using the data constituting the basic information and training data including past malfunctions, in order to estimate and output malfunctions.

[0020] (effect) (1) Conventionally, the process involved checking the actual condition of the equipment before ordering parts that needed replacing. However, according to the management system described in this disclosure, by obtaining information about the operating status of the equipment in advance, it is possible to prepare necessary parts in advance, thereby reducing the time spent on maintenance work. (2) By monitoring the operating status of the equipment, it becomes possible to repair the equipment when the likelihood of failure increases (or when signs of failure appear), thereby reducing equipment downtime and improving the operating rate. (3) When a malfunction occurs, obtaining detailed information about the operating status makes it possible to shorten the time required to investigate and resolve the cause of the malfunction. (4) In the case of non-reproducible failures that previously could only be attributed to an unknown cause, the ability to acquire and analyze information from the actual time of failure makes it possible to investigate the cause of complex failures. (5) By collecting device information and failure information, it becomes possible to identify factors that make devices prone to failure, which can then be used to develop and improve devices that aim for more stable operation. (6) While decisions regarding maintenance and replacement often relied on the experience of veterans, anyone can make appropriate decisions based on data.

[0021] (egg washing equipment) Egg washing devices use specialized brushes. While these brushes are sometimes cleaned while still attached to the device, they are also sometimes removed daily and soaked in hypochlorous acid solution for sterilization. Furthermore, some systems use one set of brushes daily, while others use two sets of brushes alternately. The brush tips wear down with use, but cleaning performance can be maintained by moving the brushes closer to the target area as they wear down. Typically, when a certain amount of wear is reached, all brushes are replaced with new ones, and the brushes are returned to their initial positions. Therefore, it is desirable to automatically detect the degree of brush wear, rather than relying on visual inspection, to maintain the proper cleaning capacity of the egg washing device. The brushes consist of an egg washing brush, an upper drying brush, and a lower drying brush. The egg washing brush and upper drying brush wear down primarily through contact with eggs, so the effect of the number of eggs processed is considered. Furthermore, since they also come into contact with the conveyor bars of the egg washing conveyor and the conveyor rollers of the drying conveyor, the effects of operating time and conveyor distance are also considered. The lower drying brush wears down through contact with the conveyor rollers, so the effects of operating time and conveyor distance are also considered. The degree of brush wear is determined based on these points of focus.

[0022] The i-th apparatus of the other disclosure (egg washing apparatus (12)) is, Installation information storage unit (120) that stores installation (replacement) information of the installation date and time (replacement date and time) of consumables (brushes), A consumables usage condition storage unit (1201) that stores the usage conditions of consumable parts (brushes), A processing count storage unit (1202) that stores the number of items (eggs) to be processed and the operating time, A distance calculation unit (126) calculates the conveyor travel distance (conveyor travel distance in the egg washing area and / or conveyor travel distance in the drying area) from the rotation speed of a rotary encoder incorporated into the conveyor of the device (conveyor in the egg washing area and / or conveyor in the drying area), A first wear level determination unit (1204) compares one or more data points from the number of processes, operating time, and conveyor travel distance with the consumable usage conditions, determines the content corresponding to the degree of wear (for example, installation adjustment, replacement timing), and outputs first wear level information. It also has a first notification unit that notifies external devices (30, 50, 60, 40) of the first wear information (e.g., wear level, installation adjustment, replacement time). The first, second, and third maintenance management devices (30, 50, 60) described above may include an installation information storage unit (120), a consumable usage condition storage unit (1201), a processing count storage unit (1202), a mileage calculation unit (126), a first wear level determination unit (1204), and a first notification unit.

[0023] The i-th apparatus of the other disclosure (egg washing apparatus (12)) is, Installation information storage unit (120) that stores installation (replacement) information of the installation date and time (replacement date and time) of consumables (brushes), A consumables usage condition storage unit (1201) that stores the usage conditions of consumable parts (brushes), A defective product rate (defective egg rate) calculation unit (1213) calculates the defective product rate (defective egg rate) from the number of defective products (defective eggs) and good products detected by the first inspection device (13) and / or second inspection device (18) for a predetermined period or per raw egg lot, A second wear level determination unit (1214) compares the aforementioned defect rate (dirty egg rate), the aforementioned installation information, and the aforementioned consumable usage conditions, determines the content corresponding to the degree of wear (for example, installation adjustment, replacement timing), and outputs second wear level information. It includes a second notification unit that notifies external devices (30, 50, 60, 40) of the second wear information (e.g., wear level, installation adjustment, replacement time). The first, second, and third maintenance management devices (30, 50, 60) described above may include a receiving unit for receiving data on the number of defective products (number of contaminated eggs) and the number of good products detected by the first inspection device (13) and / or the second inspection device (18), a defective product rate (contaminated egg rate) calculation unit (1213), a second wear level determination unit (1214), and a second notification unit.

[0024] The i-th apparatus of the other disclosure (egg washing apparatus (12)) is, A consumables usage condition storage unit (1201) that stores the usage conditions of consumable parts (brushes), A raw egg counting unit (125) that counts the number of raw eggs sent to the aforementioned device, A third wear level determination unit (1224) compares the difference between the number of eggs obtained from a downstream counting means located downstream of the aforementioned device and the number of raw eggs, with the usage conditions of the consumables, determines the content corresponding to the degree of wear (for example, installation adjustment, replacement timing), and outputs third wear level information. It includes a third notification unit (1225) that notifies external devices (30, 50, 60, 40) of the third wear level information. The third wear level determination unit (1224) determines, for example, that brush wear is progressing if the difference is increasing, and outputs third wear level information corresponding to the degree of wear (for example, installation adjustment, replacement time). The number of eggs obtained from the downstream counting means may be one or more of the following: the number of defective eggs (number of contaminated eggs) and the number of good eggs detected by the first inspection device (13) and / or the second inspection device (14), the number measured by the weighing device (19), and the number detected by the third inspection device (21). The first, second, and third maintenance management devices (30, 50, 60) described above may include a receiving unit for receiving data from the raw egg counting unit (125), a third depletion determination unit (1224), and a third notification unit.

[0025] The i-th apparatus of the other disclosure (egg washing apparatus (12)) is, A consumables usage condition storage unit (1201) that stores the usage conditions of consumable parts (brushes), Within the aforementioned device, there is a contact state detection unit (129) that detects the contact state between the passing egg and the consumable (rotating brush), A fourth wear level determination unit (1234) compares the detection result (wear level) detected by the contact state detection unit (129) with the consumable usage conditions, determines the content corresponding to the degree of wear (for example, installation adjustment, replacement timing), and outputs fourth wear level information. It includes a fourth notification unit that notifies external devices (30, 50, 60, 40) of the fourth wear information (e.g., wear level, installation adjustment, replacement time). The contact state detection unit (129) may be configured by providing a transmissive (infrared) sensor and a light receiving unit at a position between the height (h1) through which the egg passes and the height (h2) of the central axis of the rotating brush. The fourth wear determination unit (1234) may calculate the degree of wear (abrasion) of the rotating brush by the increase in the amount of light transmitted and received, and compare it with the consumable usage conditions. The contact state detection unit (129) may also be configured by having an imaging device and an image analysis unit. The fourth wear determination unit (1234) may calculate the degree of wear by comparing an image of a new brush with an image of a worn brush, and compare it with the consumable usage conditions. Depending on the installation location of the contact state detection unit (129), detection may be performed before operation starts or when operation stops (stopping the washing water and rinsing water). The first, second, and third maintenance management devices (30, 50, and 60) described above may include a receiving unit for receiving data from the contact state detection unit (129), a fourth wear level determination unit (1234), and a fourth notification unit. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0026] [Figure 1A] This figure shows an example of a maintenance management system for a chicken egg processing system. [Figure 1B] This figure shows an example of a maintenance management system for a chicken egg processing system. [Figure 1C] This figure shows an example of the function of each device. [Figure 1D] This figure shows an example of the function of each device. [Figure 1E] This figure shows an example of the function of each device. [Figure 1F] This figure shows an example of basic information. [Figure 1G] This figure shows an example of the basic information that is accumulated. [Figure 2A] This is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functions of the maintenance management system of Embodiment 1. [Figure 2B] This is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functions of the maintenance management system of Embodiment 2. [Figure 2C]This is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functions of the maintenance management system of Embodiment 3. [Figure 3A] This figure shows an example of maintenance decision criteria. [Figure 3B] This figure shows an example of the output of the maintenance decision result. [Figure 3C] This figure shows an example of the output of operational history data. [Figure 3D] This figure shows an example of the output of operational history data. [Figure 3E] This figure shows an example of the output of operational history data. [Figure 4A] This figure shows an example of the function of each component in the first egg washing device. [Figure 4B] This figure shows an example of the function of each component in the second egg washing device. [Figure 4C] This figure shows an example of the function of each component in the third egg washing device. [Figure 4D] This diagram shows an example of the function of each component in the fourth egg washing device. [Figure 4E] This is a diagram showing an example of a detection unit. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0027] (Embodiment 1) Figures 1A and 1B show examples of the egg processing system 1 and the first, second, and third maintenance management devices 30, 50, and 60. The egg processing system 1 in this embodiment includes a conveying device 11, an egg washing device 12, a first inspection device 13, a first rejection device 14, a second rejection device 15, a drying device 16, a direction alignment device 17, a second inspection device 18, a weighing device 19, a sorting and packaging device 20, a third inspection device 21, a sealing device 22, a boxing device 23, and a palletizer 24, and each device is connected via a network 101. The central monitoring device 105, which is connected to system 1 via network 101, receives various data from each device of the egg processing system 1 and displays it on the system management screen, thereby comprehensively monitoring system 1 (monitoring the operating status of each device). The printer 102, connected to system 1 via network 101, can print various documents (for example, forms, number of packages, number of boxes, processing weight, number of raw eggs, number of good products, number of defective products, good product rate, manufacturing records, etc.) in response to print commands from the permeation pressure monitoring device 105 and other devices. In addition, the first inspection device 13 or the second inspection device 15 may be omitted. The first inspection device 13 may also be located between the drying device 16 and the direction alignment device 17.

[0028] (Functional configuration of each device) The functions of each device are explained using Figures 1C to 1E. The conveying device 11 transports eggs from upstream to downstream, connecting each device. The conveying device 11 consists of roller conveyors, belt conveyors, and the like. The operation instruction unit 111 is composed of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operation mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and transport unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The operating mode may be low speed, medium speed, high speed, etc., or a mode corresponding to the egg condition or lot (the same applies hereinafter). The cleaning mode is a mode for cleaning the equipment (the same applies hereinafter). The maintenance mode may be a mode for maintaining the equipment or a mode for replacing parts (the same applies hereinafter). Various settings may be setting values ​​specific to the equipment, such as conveyor speed, egg lot, product target value, defect rate target value, etc. (the same applies hereinafter). The emergency stop instruction unit 112 is composed of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and transport unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The energizing time calculation unit 113 calculates the energizing time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 111. Alternatively, the energizing time calculation unit 113 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated energizing time and conveying unit (energized) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 114 is installed in the transport device 11 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and transport unit (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 114 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 118 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with a wireless communication function is used, the temperature data and transport unit (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The raw egg counting unit 115 counts the number of raw eggs being transported by the transport device 11. A load cell, various sensors, or image analysis using an imaging device may be used as the counting method. The number of raw eggs (including the time of counting) and the transport unit (counting) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The mileage calculation unit 116 calculates the mileage of the conveyor, for example, from an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motor driving the conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor and count these marks to calculate the mileage. The mileage (including time) and conveying unit (mileage) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 117 detects vibrations of the transport device 11. Vibration sensors are installed on the frame, motor, etc., of the transport device. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and transport device (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 117 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 118 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a vibration sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the vibration data and transport device (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The transmitting unit 118 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0029] The egg washing device 12 washes eggs. It has an upstream washing area and a downstream drying area, and includes conveyor bars for the egg washing conveyor and conveyor rollers for the drying conveyor. In the washing area, washing water and rinsing water are sprayed onto the conveyed eggs from nozzles and washed with washing brushes. In the drying area, air (air, clean air, etc.) is blown onto the conveyed eggs and water droplets are removed with drying brushes. The operation instruction unit 121 is composed of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the egg washing unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 122 is composed of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and the egg washing unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The power-on time calculation unit 123 calculates the power-on time during which current is supplied to the motors that drive the egg washing conveyor and drying conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 121. Alternatively, the power-on time calculation unit 123 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated power-on time and egg washing unit (power-on) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 124 is installed in the egg washing device 12 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and egg washing unit (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 124 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 128 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In an alternative embodiment, if a temperature sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the temperature data and egg washing unit (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The raw egg counting unit 125 counts the number of raw eggs transported by the egg washing device 12. A load cell, various sensors, or image analysis using an imaging device may be used as the counting method. The number of raw eggs (including the time of counting) and the egg washing unit (counting) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. If there is a raw egg measurement unit 115, the raw egg measurement unit 125 may be omitted. The distance calculation unit 126 calculates the distance traveled by each conveyor, for example, by using an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motors that drive the egg washing conveyor and the drying conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor, count these marks, and calculate the distance traveled for each conveyor. Each distance traveled (including time) and egg washing unit (distance traveled) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 127 detects vibrations of the egg washing device 12. Vibration sensors are installed on the device's frame, motor, etc. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and egg washing unit (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 127 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 128 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a vibration sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the vibration data and egg washing unit (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The flow rate measurement unit 1271 measures the flow rate of the washing water and the flow rate of the rinse water. The flow rate data of the washing water (flow rate and time), the flow rate data of the rinse water (flow rate data and time), and the egg washing unit (flow rate) identification information measured by the flow rate measurement unit 1271 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 128 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a flow sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the flow rate data and the egg washing unit (flow rate) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The transmitting unit 128 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0030] The first inspection device 13 inspects the eggs processed by the egg washing device 12. Here, for example, it detects large stains and broken eggs. Light sources for inspection include ultraviolet light sources, near-infrared light sources, multispectral light sources, and LED light sources. Imaging devices include color cameras and monochrome cameras. The first inspection device 13 has a processing unit 135 that analyzes the images obtained by the imaging device, distinguishes between good and defective products and outputs the results, and a display unit that displays the judgment results. The processing unit 135 counts the number of good and defective products. The number of good and defective products (including the time of counting) and the identification information of the first inspection unit (counting) are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The operation instruction unit 131 is composed of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the first inspection unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 132 is composed of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and the first inspection unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The energizing time calculation unit 133 calculates the energizing time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 131. Alternatively, the energizing time calculation unit 133 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated energizing time and the first inspection unit (energized) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 134 is installed in the first inspection device 13 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and the first inspection unit (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 134 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 138 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with a wireless communication function is used, the temperature data and the first inspection unit (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The mileage calculation unit 136 calculates the mileage of each conveyor, for example, from an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motor driving the conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor, count these marks, and calculate the mileage for each. The mileage for each conveyor (including the time) and the identification information of the first inspection unit (mileage) are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 137 detects vibrations of the first inspection device 13. Vibration sensors are installed on the frame, motor, etc., of the device. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and first inspection device (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 137 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 138 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if the vibration sensor has a wireless communication function, the vibration data and first inspection device (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The light source energization time calculation unit 1371 calculates the energization time during which current is supplied to the light source after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 131. Alternatively, the light source energization time calculation unit 1371 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated light source energization time and the first inspection unit (light source energization) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The transmitting unit 138 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0031] The first rejection device 14 removes broken eggs that have been classified as defective eggs to be discarded by the first inspection device 13, so that they can be distinguished from other eggs (removed from the conveying device 11). Defective eggs are removed using a conveying direction sorting lever, a conveying drop belt, a suction means or a gripping means, etc. The suction means or gripping means functions as an actuator for defective eggs. The operation instruction unit (not shown) consists of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the first exclusion unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The actuator operation count calculation unit (not shown) calculates the number of defective products (number of rejections) as the actuator operation count. The calculated actuator operation count and the first rejection unit (rejection) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The second elimination device 15 eliminates large, malformed, and extremely large eggs that have been classified as defective eggs by the first inspection device 13, so that they can be distinguished from other eggs. Defective eggs are eliminated using a conveying direction sorting lever, a conveying drop belt, suction means or gripping means, etc. The suction means or gripping means functions as an actuator for defective eggs. The operation instruction unit (not shown) consists of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the second exclusion unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The actuator operation count calculation unit (not shown) calculates the number of defective products (number of rejections) as the actuator operation count. The calculated actuator operation count and the second rejection unit (rejection) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32.

[0032] In this embodiment, the drying device 16 is located at least downstream of the first and second elimination devices 14 and 15, and dries the eggs. The operation instruction unit 161 is composed of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and drying unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 162 is composed of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and drying unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The energizing time calculation unit 163 calculates the energizing time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 161. Alternatively, the energizing time calculation unit 163 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated energizing time and drying unit (energized) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. A thermometer 164 is installed in the drying apparatus 16 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and drying section (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 164 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 168 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with a wireless communication function is used, the temperature data and drying section (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The mileage calculation unit 166 calculates the mileage of each conveyor, for example, from an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motor driving the conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor, count these marks, and calculate the mileage for each. The mileage for each (including time) and the drying section (mileage) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 167 detects vibrations of the drying apparatus 16. Vibration sensors are installed on the frame, motor, etc., of the apparatus. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and drying apparatus (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 137 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 168 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a vibration sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the vibration data and drying apparatus (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The pressure loss detection unit 1671 detects the pressure difference between the primary and secondary sides of the filter installed in the drying apparatus 16. The detected pressure loss data (including time) and drying section (pressure loss) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The transmitting unit 168 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0033] The direction alignment device 17 is located downstream of the drying device 16 and aligns the direction of the blunt or sharp ends. The operation instruction unit 171 consists of, for example, a power switch and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the alignment unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 172 is composed of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and the alignment unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The energizing time calculation unit 173 calculates the energizing time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 171. Alternatively, the energizing time calculation unit 173 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated energizing time and alignment unit (energized) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 174 is installed in the direction alignment device 17 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and drying section (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 174 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 178 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with a wireless communication function is used, the temperature data and alignment section (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The mileage calculation unit 176 calculates the mileage of the conveyor, for example, from an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motor driving the conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor, count these marks and calculate the mileage for each section. Each mileage (including time) and alignment section (mileage) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 177 detects vibrations of the direction alignment device 17. Vibration sensors are installed on the device's frame, motor, etc. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and alignment unit (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 177 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 178 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if the vibration sensor has a wireless communication function, the vibration data and alignment unit (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The actuator operation count calculation unit 1771 calculates the number of operations of an actuator (for example, an air cylinder). The number of air supply operations and the number of actuator operation instructions may also be counted. The calculated actuator operation count and alignment unit (actuator) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The transmitting unit 178 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0034] The second inspection device 18 detects defective eggs (small, dirty eggs). Light sources for inspection include ultraviolet light sources, near-infrared light sources, multispectral light sources, and LED light sources. Imaging devices include color cameras and monochrome cameras. The second inspection device 18 has a processing unit 185 that analyzes images obtained from the imaging device to distinguish between good eggs and defective eggs (small, dirty eggs) and outputs the results, as well as a display unit that shows the judgment results. The processing unit 185 counts the number of good eggs and defective eggs. The number of good eggs and defective eggs (including the time of counting) and the identification information of the second inspection unit (counting) are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The operation instruction unit 181 is composed of, for example, various switches, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the second inspection unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 182 consists of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and the second inspection unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The energizing time calculation unit 183 calculates the energizing time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 181. Alternatively, the energizing time calculation unit 183 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated energizing time and the second inspection unit (energized) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 184 is installed in the second inspection device 18 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and the identification information of the second inspection unit (temperature) measured by the thermometer 184 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 188 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with a wireless communication function is used, the temperature data and the identification information of the second inspection unit (temperature) may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The mileage calculation unit 186 calculates the mileage of the conveyor, for example, from an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motor driving the conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor, count these marks, and calculate the mileage for each section. Each mileage (including time) and the second inspection unit (mileage) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 187 detects vibrations of the second inspection device 18. Vibration sensors are installed on the frame, motor, etc., of the device. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and second inspection device (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 187 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 188 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if the vibration sensor has a wireless communication function, the vibration data and second inspection device (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The light source energization time calculation unit 1871 calculates the energization time during which current is supplied to the light source after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 181. Alternatively, the light source energization time calculation unit 1871 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated light source energization time and the second inspection unit (light source energization) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The transmitting unit 188 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0035] The second inspection device 18 may also include a crack detection device that detects cracked eggs from the sound produced when the eggs are struck. Cracked eggs detected by the crack detection device are removed by the third exclusion unit.

[0036] The third exclusion unit (not shown) excludes defective eggs detected by the second inspection device 18 so that they can be distinguished from normal eggs. The third exclusion unit is part of the sorting and packaging device 20 and removes defective eggs (small, dirty eggs) by transferring them to a tray using suction means, gripping means, or release means. The suction means, gripping means, or release means function as actuators for defective eggs.

[0037] The weighing device 19 is located downstream of the second inspection device 18 and weighs the eggs in a multi-row (e.g., 6-row) conveying state. The operation instruction unit 191 is composed of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the metering unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 192 is composed of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and the metering unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The energizing time calculation unit 193 calculates the energizing time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 191. Alternatively, the energizing time calculation unit 193 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated energizing time and the measuring unit (energized) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 194 is installed in the measuring device 19 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and measuring unit (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 194 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 198 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with a wireless communication function is used, the temperature data and measuring unit (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The egg counting unit 195 counts the number of eggs. A load cell, various sensors, or image analysis using an imaging device may be used as the counting method. The number of eggs (including the time of counting) and the counting unit identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The mileage calculation unit 196 calculates the mileage of the conveyor, for example, from an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motor driving the conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor and count these marks to calculate the mileage. The mileage (including time) and the metering unit (mileage) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 197 detects vibrations of the weighing device 19. Vibration sensors are installed on the frame, motor, etc., of the device. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and weighing device (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 197 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 198 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a vibration sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the vibration data and weighing device (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The transmitting unit 198 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0038] The sorting and packaging device 20 sorts the eggs according to the weight measured by the weighing device 19 and places the sorted eggs into containers corresponding to the eggs (various containers for holding eggs such as MS, M, L, LL, etc.). In this embodiment, the sorting and packaging device 20 is composed of a device that packs and packages the eggs into egg containers (transparent egg cartons). Eggs weighed by the weighing device 19 are transferred from multi-lane conveying to single-lane conveying. A transfer device (not shown) is provided to transfer eggs being conveyed in multi-lane (e.g., 6 lanes) to single-lane conveying. In single-lane conveying, the eggs are conveyed so that the upper end is blunt and the lower end is sharp. A fourth inspection device may be provided to inspect the eggs in single-lane conveying state (conveyor conveyor). Examples of this fourth inspection device include an abnormal egg inspection device that inspects for abnormalities in the egg portion (blood eggs, spoilage, etc.) by spectroscopic analysis, and an end inspection device that inspects for abnormalities at the ends of the eggs. The operation instruction unit 201 is composed of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and packaging unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 202 consists of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and the packaging unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The energizing time calculation unit 203 calculates the energizing time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 191. Alternatively, the energizing time calculation unit 193 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated energizing time and packaging unit (energized) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 204 is installed in the sorting and packaging device 20 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and packaging section (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 204 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 208 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the temperature data and packaging section (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The packaging counting unit 205 counts the total number of eggs filled in each container and the number of each container (various containers that hold eggs of MS, M, L, LL, etc.). A load cell, various sensors, or image analysis using an imaging device may be used as the counting method. The total number of eggs, the number of each container (including the time of counting), and the counting unit identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The mileage calculation unit 206 calculates the mileage of each conveyor, for example, by using an encoder to detect the rotational speed of the motor driving each conveyor, and means to detect the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculate the rotational speed. It may also consist of means to mark a part of the conveyor, count these marks, and calculate the mileage. The mileage (including time) and packaging section (mileage) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 207 detects vibrations of the sorting and packaging device 20. Vibration sensors are installed on the frame, motor, etc., of the device. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and packaging unit (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 207 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 208 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a vibration sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the vibration data and packaging unit (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The actuator operation count calculation unit 2071 calculates the number of operations of the actuator (e.g., suction means, air cylinder). The number of air supply operations and the number of actuator operation instructions may also be counted. The calculated actuator operation count and packaging unit (actuator) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The transmitting unit 208 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0039] The third inspection device 21 inspects the eggs contained in the egg cartons while they are not sealed. After inspection, the cartons are sent to the sealing device 22, which seals the lids. Abnormal eggs may be removed from the container by adsorption means, and normal eggs may be placed in their place by adsorption means (actuators). Egg cartons containing abnormal eggs may be removed from the line that sends them to the sealing device 22. Light sources for inspection include ultraviolet light sources, near-infrared light sources, multispectral light sources, and LED light sources. Imaging devices include color cameras and monochrome cameras. The third inspection device 21 has a processing unit 215 that analyzes the images obtained by the imaging device, distinguishes between good products and defective products (small dirty eggs), and outputs the results, and a display unit that displays the judgment results. The processing unit 215 counts the number of good products and the number of defective products. The number of good products and the number of defective products (including the time of counting) and the identification information of the third inspection unit (counting) are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The operation instruction unit 211 is composed of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the third inspection unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 212 is composed of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and the third inspection unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The energizing time calculation unit 213 calculates the energizing time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 211. Alternatively, the energizing time calculation unit 213 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated energizing time and the third inspection unit (energized) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 214 is installed in the third inspection device 21 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and third inspection unit (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 214 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 218 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with a wireless communication function is used, the temperature data and third inspection unit (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The mileage calculation unit 216 calculates the mileage of the conveyor, for example, from an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motor driving the conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor, count these marks, and calculate the mileage for each. Each mileage (including time) and the third inspection unit (mileage) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 217 detects vibrations of the third inspection device 21. Vibration sensors are installed on the frame, motor, etc., of the device. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and third inspection device (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 217 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 218 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a vibration sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the vibration data and third inspection device (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The light source energization time calculation unit 2171 calculates the energization time during which current is supplied to the light source after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 211. Alternatively, the light source energization time calculation unit 2171 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated light source energization time and the third inspection unit (light source energization) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The actuator operation count calculation unit 2172 calculates the number of operations of the actuator (e.g., suction means, air cylinder). The number of air supply operations and the number of actuator operation instructions may also be counted. The calculated actuator operation count and third inspection unit (actuator) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The transmitting unit 218 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0040] The sealing device 22 seals the lid of the container holding the eggs. If the container is made of plastic, it is sealed using high-frequency welding, ultrasonic welding, adhesive tape, hot melt, etc. If the container is made of paper (molded pack), the sealing device 22 may be configured to include an automatic lid closing machine. The automatic lid closing machine has a mechanism that closes the lid by fitting a protrusion on an extended portion that extends from the side portion on the side where the eggs are placed into the opening on the lid side. The operation instruction unit 221 is composed of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the sealing unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 222 is composed of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and the sealing unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The energizing time calculation unit 223 calculates the energizing time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 221. Alternatively, the energizing time calculation unit 223 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated energizing time and the sealing part (energized) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 224 is installed in the sealing device 22 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and sealing part (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 224 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 228 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with a wireless communication function is used, the temperature data and sealing part (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The lid counting unit 225 counts the number of sealed containers. A load cell, various sensors, or image analysis using an imaging device may be used as the counting method. The number of containers (including the time of counting) and the lid (count) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The mileage calculation unit 226 calculates the mileage of the conveyor, for example, from an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motor driving the conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor and count these marks to calculate the mileage. The mileage (including time) and the identification information of the sealed section (mileage) are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 227 detects vibrations of the sealing device 22. Vibration sensors are installed on the device's frame, motor, etc. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and sealing device (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 137 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 228 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a vibration sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the vibration data and sealing device (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The actuator operation count calculation unit 2271 calculates the number of operations of the actuator (e.g., lid means, air cylinder). The number of air supply operations and the number of actuator operation instructions may also be counted. The calculated actuator operation count and sealing lid (actuator) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The transmitting unit 228 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30. Further downstream from the sealing device 22, an inspection device (post-sealing inspection device) may be placed. The sealed egg cartons are placed into boxes by the boxing device 23 and sent as products to the palletizer 24.

[0041] The boxing device 23 packs sealed product containers into boxes. The boxing device 23 includes a conveyor roller, an automatic box assembly unit, and a multi-axis robot. The multi-axis robot has a suction unit that picks up containers and loads them into boxes. Once a predetermined number of boxes have been loaded, they are sealed. The operation instruction unit 231 is composed of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the packing unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 232 is composed of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and the boxing unit (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The power-on time calculation unit 233 calculates the power-on time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 231. Alternatively, the power-on time calculation unit 233 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated power-on time and the boxing unit (power-on) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 234 is installed in the boxing device 23 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and sealing part (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 234 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 238 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with a wireless communication function is used, the temperature data and boxing part (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The box-packing counting unit 235 counts the number of sealed boxes. A load cell, various sensors, or image analysis using an imaging device may be used as the counting method. The number of boxes (including the time of counting) and the box-packing unit (counting) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The mileage calculation unit 236 calculates the mileage of the conveyor, for example, from an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motor driving the conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor and count these marks to calculate the mileage. The mileage (including time) and packing section (mileage) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 237 detects vibrations of the boxing device 23. Vibration sensors are installed on the frame, motor, etc., of the device. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and boxing unit (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 237 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 238 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a vibration sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the vibration data and boxing unit (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The actuator operation count calculation unit 2371 calculates the number of operations of the actuators (e.g., hydraulic cylinders, air cylinders, suction units, box molding units, and sealing units). The number of air supply operations and the number of actuator operation instructions may also be counted. The calculated actuator operation count and boxing unit (actuator) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The transmitting unit 238 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0042] The Palletizer 24 stacks sealed boxes onto pallets. The operation instruction unit 241 is composed of, for example, various switches and an operation touch panel, and counts the number of operation instructions, such as the number of times the power is turned ON and OFF, the number of times the operating mode is instructed, the number of times the cleaning mode is instructed, the number of times the maintenance mode is instructed, and the number of times various settings are changed. The number of operation instructions is stored in memory (not shown). In addition, the number of operation instructions (including time data) and the palletizer unit (operation) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The emergency stop instruction unit 242 consists of, for example, an emergency stop button, an operation touch panel, etc., and counts the number of emergency stops. The number of emergency stops and palletizer (emergency stop) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The energizing time calculation unit 243 calculates the energizing time during which current is supplied to the motor that drives the conveyor after the power is turned ON by the operation instruction unit 241. Alternatively, the energizing time calculation unit 233 may calculate the time from the difference between the time the power is turned ON and the time it is turned OFF. The calculated energizing time and palletizer (energized) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The thermometer 244 is installed on the palletizer 24 and measures the temperature along with the time. The temperature data (temperature and time) and palletizer (temperature) identification information measured by the thermometer 244 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 248 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a temperature sensor with a wireless communication function is used, the temperature data and palletizer (temperature) identification information may be sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 by this wireless communication function. The pallet counting unit 245 counts the number of pallets on which boxes are stacked. A load cell, various sensors, or image analysis using an imaging device may be used as the counting method. The number of pallets (including the time of counting) and palletizer (counting) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The mileage calculation unit 246 calculates the mileage of the conveyor, for example, from an encoder that detects the rotational speed of the motor driving the conveyor, and means that detects the leakage magnetic field from the motor and calculates the rotational speed. It may also consist of means that mark a part of the conveyor and count these marks to calculate the mileage. The mileage (including time) and palletizer (mileage) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The vibration detection unit 247 detects vibrations of the palletizer 24. Vibration sensors are installed on the frame, motor, etc. The vibration data (vibration value and time) and palletizer (vibration) identification information measured by the vibration detection unit 137 are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 by the transmission unit 248 and stored in the first storage unit 32. In another embodiment, if a vibration sensor with wireless communication functionality is used, the vibration data and palletizer (vibration) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32 via this wireless communication function. The actuator operation count calculation unit 2471 calculates the number of operations of an actuator (e.g., a hydraulic cylinder, an air cylinder). The number of air supply operations and the number of actuator operation instructions may also be counted. The calculated actuator operation count and palletizer (actuator) identification information are sent to the first maintenance management device 30 and stored in the first storage unit 32. The transmitting unit 248 is composed of wireless communication means or wired communication means and sends the data obtained from each of the above units to the first maintenance management device 30.

[0043] (Embodiment 1: Maintenance management device) Figure 2A shows the functions of the first maintenance management device 30, the second maintenance management device 50, and the third maintenance management device 60. In Figure 2A, the first maintenance management device 30 makes maintenance decisions and sends the results to the second and third maintenance management devices. The first receiving unit 31 receives basic information and identification information used to determine maintenance from each device. An example of basic information is shown in Figure 1F. The first storage unit 32 stores the basic information and identification information. An example of the data of the stored basic information and identification information is shown in Figure 1G. The first transmission unit 311 may transmit basic information and identification information to the second maintenance management device 50 and / or the third maintenance management device 60 via the networks 101, 501, and 601. The first determination unit 35 determines the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content from the basic information and outputs a first determination result. The first determination unit 35 may also determine the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content by comparing the basic information with a first determination condition. The second determination unit 36 ​​determines the replacement parts and replacement timing from the basic information and outputs a second determination result. The second determination unit 36 ​​may also determine the replacement parts and replacement timing by comparing the basic information with a second determination condition. The third determination unit 37 determines operational abnormalities (for example, current abnormalities, potential future abnormalities, etc.) from the basic information and outputs a third determination result. The third determination unit 37 may also determine operational abnormalities by comparing the basic information with a third determination condition. The first operation history creation unit 381 creates first operation history data for the device corresponding to the first judgment result. The second operation history creation unit 382 creates second operation history data for the device corresponding to the second judgment result. The third operation history creation unit 383 creates third operation history data for the device corresponding to the third judgment result. The first display unit 33 displays the first, second, and third judgment results, the first, second, and third operation history data, and various other data. The first memory unit 32 stores the first, second, and third judgment results, the first, second, and third operation history data, and the corresponding identification information. The first main control unit 34 controls various processes of the first maintenance management device 30.

[0044] Figure 3A shows examples of the first, second, and third decision conditions. Examples of basic information used as criteria for decision-making include the number of power ON / OFF cycles, the number of cleaning mode cycles, the number of maintenance mode cycles, the energizing time, the number of emergency stops, the number of items processed (eggs, containers, boxes), the conveyor travel distance, the light source energizing time, the filter pressure loss, the number of actuator operations, the egg washing / rinsing water flow rate, temperature, and vibration. The first judgment unit 35 recommends maintenance within three months (3M) if all one to three types of basic information are above the threshold. The maintenance content is determined from one of the following: "full cleaning / conveyor / motor / actuator / sensor / electrical components / mechanical components" in response to the basic information that exceeds the threshold. The first judgment unit 35 recommends maintenance within one month (1M) if all four to six types of basic information are above the threshold. The maintenance content is determined from one of the following: "all / conveyor / motor / actuator / sensor / electrical components / mechanical components" in response to the basic information that exceeds the threshold. The first judgment unit 35 recommends immediate (emergency) maintenance if seven or more types of basic information exceed a threshold. The maintenance content is determined from one of the following: "all / conveyor / motor / actuator / sensor / electrical components / mechanical components" in response to the basic information that exceeds the threshold. The first decision unit 35 may set a risk level for each type of basic information and make decisions in order of highest risk level. When the basic information with the highest risk level exceeds a threshold, it may recommend immediate (urgent) maintenance. Each threshold is pre-set and determined based on empirical measurements from past maintenance. Each threshold may differ depending on the manufacturing location. Each threshold can be modified as needed to accommodate long-term use.

[0045] The second judgment unit 36 ​​recommends replacement within three months (3M) if all one to three types of basic information are above the threshold. The replacement part is determined from one of the following: "conveyor / motor / actuator / sensor / electrical component / mechanical component" in response to the basic information that exceeds the threshold. The second judgment unit 36 ​​recommends replacement within one month (1M) if all four to six types of basic information are above the threshold. The replacement part is determined from one of the following: "conveyor / motor / actuator / sensor / electrical component / mechanical component" in response to the basic information that exceeds the threshold. The second judgment unit 36 ​​recommends immediate (emergency) replacement if seven or more types of basic information exceed a threshold. The replacement part is determined from one of the following: "conveyor / motor / actuator / sensor / electrical component / mechanical component" in response to the basic information that exceeds the threshold. The second decision unit 36 ​​may set a risk level for each type of basic information and make decisions in order of decreasing risk level. When the basic information with the highest risk level exceeds a threshold, it may recommend immediate (urgent) replacement. Each threshold is pre-set and determined based on empirical measurements from past replacements. Each threshold may differ depending on the manufacturing location. Each threshold can be modified as needed to accommodate long-term use.

[0046] The third judgment unit 37 determines that the malfunction is minor if all one to three types of basic information are above a threshold. The third judgment unit 37 determines that there is a moderate malfunction if all four to six types of basic information are above the threshold. The third judgment unit 37 determines that there is a severe malfunction if seven or more types of basic information are above a threshold. A risk level may be set for each type of basic information, and the third judgment unit 37 may perform judgments in order of decreasing risk level. When the basic information with the highest risk level exceeds the threshold, it may be determined to be a severe malfunction; when the basic information with a moderate risk level exceeds the threshold, it may be determined to be a moderate malfunction; and when the basic information with a low risk level exceeds the threshold, it may be determined to be a minor malfunction. Each threshold is set in advance and is determined based on empirical measurements from past replacements. Each threshold may differ depending on the manufacturing location. Each threshold can be changed as appropriate to accommodate long-term use. The threshold used in the first decision unit, the threshold used in the second decision unit, and the threshold used in the third decision unit may all be the same, or they may be different.

[0047] The judgment results determined by the first, second, and third judgment units are stored in the first storage unit 32 in association with the device (type) identification information. They are also displayed on a predetermined screen by the first display unit 33. Figure 3B shows an example of the first, second, and third judgment results. The first judgment result is "Device 1: Please perform a complete cleaning within one month." The second judgment result is "Device 2: Please replace the light source immediately." The third judgment result is "Device 3: Low-level malfunction." These judgment results (including the device (type) identification information) are sent to the second and third maintenance management devices 50 and 60 by the first transmission unit 311 and stored in the second and third storage units 52 and 62 of the second and third maintenance management devices 50 and 60. Furthermore, this data is transmitted to the mobile terminal 40, where it can be displayed.

[0048] The first operation history creation unit 381 creates first operation history data corresponding to the first judgment result (device 1). Figure 3C shows an example of first operation history data, including power-on time history data, conveyor travel distance history data, and raw egg processing number history data for the past three months. The horizontal axis represents days. At the bottom of Figure 3C, an example of the time progression of the raw egg processing number, for example, the progression over one hour, is shown by indicating any data (indicated by a dashed line frame) for the raw egg processing history data. Past operation history data can be displayed by selecting any period in units such as one hour, one day, one week, one month, and one year. It is also possible to display detailed history data for a predetermined time period (for example, two hours, four hours, or eight hours). The second operation history creation unit 382 creates second operation history data corresponding to the second judgment result (device 2). Figure 3D shows an example of second operation history data, including power-on time history data, conveyor travel distance history data, and egg washing processing count history data for the past three months. Past operation history data can be displayed by selecting any period in units such as 1 hour, 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 1 year. It is also possible to display detailed history data for a predetermined time period (for example, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours). The third operation history creation unit 383 creates third operation history data corresponding to the third judgment result (device 3). Figure 3E shows an example of third operation history data, including light source energization time history data, average weight history data, and defect rate history data for the past three months. Past operation history data can be displayed by selecting any period in units such as 1 hour, 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 1 year. It is also possible to display detailed history data for a predetermined time period (for example, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours). This operational history data (including device (type) identification information) is sent to the second and third maintenance management devices by the first transmission unit 311 and stored in the second and third storage units 52 and 62 of the second and third maintenance management devices 50 and 60. Furthermore, this data is transmitted to the mobile terminal 40, where it can be displayed.

[0049] (Embodiment 2: Maintenance Management Device) Figure 2B shows the functions of the first maintenance management device 30, the second maintenance management device 50, and the third maintenance management device 60. In Figure 2B, the second maintenance management device 50 makes maintenance decisions and sends the results to the first and third maintenance management devices 30 and 60. The second maintenance management device 50 includes a first judgment unit 55, a second judgment unit 56, a third judgment unit 57, a first operation history creation unit 581, a second operation history creation unit 582, and a third operation history creation unit 583. These have the same functions as the first judgment unit 35, second judgment unit 36, third judgment unit 37, first operation history creation unit 381, second operation history creation unit 382, ​​and third operation history creation unit 383 of the first maintenance management device 30. The second receiving unit 51 receives basic information (including device identification information) directly from the first maintenance management device 30 or each device. The second storage unit 52 stores the received basic information (including device identification information). The second display unit 53 displays the first, second, and third judgment results determined by the first judgment unit and the second and third judgment units 55, 56, and 57, the first, second, and third operation history data created by the first, second, and third operation history creation units 581, 582, and 583, and various other data. The second memory unit 52 stores the first, second, and third decision results determined by the first decision unit and the second and third decision units 55, 56, and 57, as well as the first, second, and third operation history data created by the first, second, and third operation history creation units 581, 582, and 583. The second transmission unit 511 transmits the first, second, and third judgment results and the first, second, and third operation history data to the first maintenance management device 30 and the third maintenance management device 60 via the networks 101, 501, and 601, and stores them in the second and third storage units 32 and 62 of the first and third maintenance management devices 30 and 60. Furthermore, this data is transmitted to the mobile terminal 40, allowing it to be displayed on the mobile terminal. The second main control unit 54 controls various processes of the second maintenance management device 50.

[0050] (Embodiment 3: Maintenance Management Device) Figure 2C shows the functions of the first maintenance management device 30, the second maintenance management device 50, and the third maintenance management device 60. In Figure 2C, the third maintenance management device 60 makes maintenance decisions and sends the results to the first and second maintenance management devices 30 and 50. The third maintenance management device 60 includes a first judgment unit 65, a second judgment unit 66, a third judgment unit 67, a first operation history creation unit 681, a second operation history creation unit 682, and a third operation history creation unit 683. These have the same functions as the first judgment unit 35, second judgment unit 36, third judgment unit 37, first operation history creation unit 381, second operation history creation unit 382, ​​and third operation history creation unit 383 of the first maintenance management device 30. The third receiving unit 61 receives basic information (including device identification information, etc.) directly from the first maintenance management device 30 or each device. The third storage unit 62 stores the received basic information (including device identification information, etc.). The third display unit 63 displays the first, second, and third judgment results determined by the first judgment unit and the second and third judgment units 65, 66, and 67, the first, second, and third operation history data created by the first, second, and third operation history creation units 681, 682, and 683, and various other data. The third storage unit 62 stores the first, second, and third decision results determined by the first, second, and third decision units 65, 66, and 67, and the first, second, and third operation history data created by the first, second, and third operation history creation units 681, 682, and 683. The third transmission unit 611 transmits the first, second, and third judgment results and the first, second, and third operation history data to the first maintenance management device 30 and the second maintenance management device 50 via the networks 101, 501, and 601, and stores them in the first and second storage units 32 and 52 of the first and second maintenance management devices 30 and 50. Furthermore, this data is transmitted to the mobile terminal 40, allowing it to be displayed on the mobile terminal. The third main control unit 64 controls various processes of the third maintenance management device 60.

[0051] (egg washing equipment) Figure 4A shows an example of the function of the first egg washing device 12. The same reference numerals as in the egg washing device 12 above indicate the same function, so their explanation is omitted. The installation information storage unit 120 stores installation (replacement) information, specifically the date and time (replacement date and time) of installation of consumables (brushes). The consumables usage condition storage unit 1201 stores the usage conditions for consumable parts (brushes). The processing count storage unit 1202 stores the number of items (eggs) to be processed and the operating time. The distance calculation unit 126 calculates the conveyor distance (the distance traveled by the conveyor in the egg washing area and / or the conveyor in the drying area) from the rotation speed of the rotary encoder incorporated into the conveyor (the conveyor in the egg washing area and / or the conveyor in the drying area). The first wear level determination unit 1204 compares one or more data points from the number of items processed, operating time, and conveyor travel distance with the usage conditions of the consumables, determines the content corresponding to the degree of wear (for example, installation adjustment, replacement timing), and outputs the first wear level information. The transmitting unit 128 transmits first wear information (e.g., wear level, installation adjustment, replacement timing) to the first, second, and third maintenance management devices 30, 50, and 60 or the mobile terminal 40. The first, second, and third maintenance management devices 30, 50, and 60 store the received data in the first, second, and third storage units 32, 52, and 62, respectively.

[0052] Figure 4B shows an example of the function of the second egg washing device 12. The same reference numerals as those in the first egg washing device 12 have the same function, so their explanation is omitted. The defective product rate (contaminated egg rate) calculation unit 1213 calculates the defective product rate (contaminated egg rate) from the number of defective products (contaminated eggs) and good products detected by the first inspection device 13 and / or the second inspection device 14 for a predetermined period or per raw egg lot. The defective product rate (contaminated egg rate) calculation unit 1213 may have the first inspection device 13 and / or the second inspection device 14 and send the calculation results to the egg washing device 12. The second wear level determination unit 1214 compares the defective product rate (dirty egg rate), the installation information, and the consumable usage conditions to determine the appropriate content (e.g., installation adjustment, replacement timing) corresponding to the degree of wear, and outputs the second wear level information. The transmitting unit 128 transmits the second wear information (e.g., wear level, installation adjustment, replacement timing) to the first, second, and third maintenance management devices 30, 50, and 60 or the mobile terminal 40. The first, second, and third maintenance management devices 30, 50, and 60 store the received data in the first, second, and third storage units 32, 52, and 62, respectively.

[0053] Figure 4C shows an example of the function of the third egg washing device 12. The same reference numerals as those used in the first and second egg washing devices 12 have the same function, so their explanation is omitted. The raw egg counting unit 125 counts the number of raw eggs processed by the egg washing device. The third wear level determination unit 1224 compares the difference between the number of eggs obtained from the downstream counting means, which is located downstream of the egg washing device and counts the number of eggs, and the number of original eggs, with the usage conditions of the consumables, and determines the content corresponding to the degree of wear (for example, installation adjustment, replacement time), and outputs the third wear level information. The transmitting unit 128 transmits third-party wear information (e.g., wear level, installation adjustment, replacement timing) to the first, second, and third maintenance management devices 30, 50, and 60 or the mobile terminal 40. The first, second, and third maintenance management devices 30, 50, and 60 store the received data in the first, second, and third storage units 32, 52, and 62, respectively. The third wear level determination unit 1224 determines, for example, that brush wear is progressing if the difference is increasing, and outputs third wear level information corresponding to the degree of wear (for example, installation adjustment, replacement time). The number of eggs obtained from the downstream counting means may be one or more of the following: the number of defective eggs (number of contaminated eggs) and the number of good eggs detected by the first inspection device 13 and / or the second inspection device 14; the number weighed by the weighing device 19; and the number of containers (number of containers × number of eggs stored) detected by the third inspection device 21.

[0054] Figure 4D shows an example of the function of the fourth egg washing device 12. The same reference numerals as those used for the first, second, and third egg washing devices 12 above have the same function, so their explanation is omitted. The contact state detection unit 129 detects the contact state between passing eggs and consumables (rotating brushes) within the egg washing device. The fourth wear level determination unit 1234 compares the detection result (wear level) detected by the contact state detection unit 129 with the usage conditions of the consumables, determines the content corresponding to the degree of wear (for example, installation adjustment, replacement time), and outputs the fourth wear level information. The transmitting unit 128 transmits fourth wear information (e.g., wear level, installation adjustment, replacement timing) to the first, second, and third maintenance management devices 30, 50, and 60 or the mobile terminal 40. The first, second, and third maintenance management devices 30, 50, and 60 store the received data in the first, second, and third storage units 32, 52, and 62, respectively.

[0055] Figure 4E shows an example of the contact state detection unit 129. The contact state detection unit 129 has an infrared light emitter and a light receiver. The infrared light emitter and light receiver are positioned between the height at which the egg passes (h1) and the height of the central axis of the rotating brush (h2). The fourth wear determination unit 1234 calculates the wear (abrasion) of the rotating brush by the increase in the amount of light transmitted and received, and compares it with the consumable usage conditions. In another embodiment, the contact state detection unit 129 may be configured to include an imaging device and an image analysis unit. The fourth wear degree determination unit 1234 may calculate the wear degree by comparing an image of a new brush with an image of a worn brush and compare it with the consumable usage conditions. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0056] 1. Egg Processing System 30 First Maintenance Management Device 35 First Judgment Department 36 Second Judgment Department 37 Third Judgment Department 381 First Operation History Creation Department 382 Second Operation History Creation Department 383 Third Operation History Creation Department 50 Second maintenance management device 60 Third Maintenance Management Device

Claims

1. The first maintenance management device is connected to the i-th device (i=1 to n) of the egg processing system via a communication network, A second maintenance management device connected to the aforementioned egg processing system via a communication network, The system comprises a first maintenance management device and / or a third maintenance management device connected to the second maintenance management device via a communication network, Any one or more of the first maintenance management device, the second maintenance management device, and the third maintenance management device are: A receiving unit that receives basic information used for determining maintenance and identification information of the i-th device from the i-th device, The system comprises a storage unit that stores the basic information and identification information received by the receiving unit, The aforementioned basic information is information dependent on the i-th device, and one or more types are selected for each i-th device from the following: total operating time, number of times the device is turned ON / OFF, power-on time of the device, motor rotation speed, motor load rate, number of encoder operations, number of solenoid operations, number of times maintenance functions are used, number of times and duration of use of the weighing device, number of times the sorting and packaging device is used and number of times the usage mode is changed, number of sensor operations of the inspection device, power-on time of the light source, number of operations of various sensors, vibration data of the device, temperature data of the device, sound data of the device, image data of the device or parts, chain elongation, number of air cylinder operations, number of electric actuator operations, filter pressure loss, conveyor travel distance, brush wear, flow rate and pressure of egg washing water and rinse water, number of emergency stop button operations, number of times adhesive tape is used, and number of box sealing operations. Any one or more of the first maintenance management device, the second maintenance management device, and the third maintenance management device are: The system includes a second determination unit that determines the replacement parts and replacement timing from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a second determination result. A maintenance management system for egg processing systems.

2. Any one or more of the first maintenance management device, the second maintenance management device, and the third maintenance management device are: A first determination unit that determines the maintenance timing and / or maintenance content from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a first determination result, and / or, The system includes a third determination unit that determines at least the operational abnormalities that may occur in the future based on the aforementioned basic information and outputs a third determination result. The maintenance management system according to claim 1.

3. Any one or more of the first maintenance management device, the second maintenance management device, and the third maintenance management device are: A first operation history creation unit creates first operation history data for the i-device in accordance with the first judgment result, A second operation history creation unit creates second operation history data for the i-device in accordance with the second determination result, and The system comprises one or more of the following: a third operation history creation unit that creates third operation history data for the i-device in accordance with the third determination result; The maintenance management system according to claim 2.

4. The second judgment unit determines that if all one to three types of the basic information are above the threshold, it recommends replacement within three months; if all four to six types of the basic information are above the threshold, it recommends replacement within one month; and if seven or more types of the basic information are above the threshold, it recommends immediate replacement. The maintenance management system according to claim 1.

5. A risk level is assigned to each type of basic information, and the second decision unit makes decisions in order of highest risk level. When the basic information with the highest risk level exceeds a threshold, it decides to recommend immediate replacement. The maintenance management system according to claim 1.

6. A maintenance management method for the i-th device (i=1 to n) of a chicken egg processing system, Executed by an information processing device, A first decision step that determines the timing and / or content of maintenance from the basic information used to make maintenance decisions and outputs a first decision result, A second decision step involves determining the replacement parts and replacement timing from the aforementioned basic information and outputting a second decision result, and The third decision step includes determining at least the operational abnormalities that may occur in the future from the aforementioned basic information and outputting a third decision result, The basic information is information dependent on the i-th device, and one or more types are selected for each i-th device from the following: total operating time, number of times the device is turned ON / OFF, power-on time of the device, motor rotation speed, motor load rate, number of encoder operations, number of solenoid operations, number of times maintenance functions are used, number of times and duration of use of the weighing device, number of times the sorting and packaging device is used and number of times the usage mode is changed, number of sensor operations of the inspection device, power-on time of the light source, number of operations of various sensors, vibration data of the device, temperature data of the device, sound data of the device, image data of the device or parts, chain elongation, number of air cylinder operations, number of electric actuator operations, filter pressure loss, conveyor travel distance, brush wear, flow rate and pressure of egg washing water and rinse water, number of emergency stop button operations, number of times adhesive tape is used, and number of box sealing operations. Maintenance management methods.

7. A maintenance management program for the i-th device (i=1 to n) of a chicken egg processing system, Information processing equipment A first decision step that determines the timing and / or content of maintenance from the basic information used to make maintenance decisions and outputs a first decision result, A second decision step involves determining the replacement parts and replacement timing from the aforementioned basic information and outputting a second decision result, and This configuration implements a third decision step that determines an operational abnormality from the aforementioned basic information and outputs a third decision result. The basic information is information dependent on the i-th device, and one or more types are selected for each i-th device from the following: total operating time, number of times the device is turned ON / OFF, power-on time of the device, motor rotation speed, motor load rate, number of encoder operations, number of solenoid operations, number of times maintenance functions are used, number of times and duration of use of the weighing device, number of times the sorting and packaging device is used and number of times the usage mode is changed, number of sensor operations of the inspection device, power-on time of the light source, number of operations of various sensors, vibration data of the device, temperature data of the device, sound data of the device, image data of the device or parts, chain elongation, number of air cylinder operations, number of electric actuator operations, filter pressure loss, conveyor travel distance, brush wear, flow rate and pressure of egg washing water and rinse water, number of emergency stop button operations, number of times adhesive tape is used, and number of box sealing operations. program.

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