Anomaly detection system

Abstract

The present invention provides an anomaly detection system that can provide early notification of anomalies while suppressing false alarms. [Solution] This abnormality detection system 100 includes a detection unit 10 which includes a VOC sensor 16 that outputs a first output value based on the detection result of volatile organic compound gases, a CO sensor 14, a smoke sensor 15, and a temperature and humidity sensor 17 that output a second output value based on the detection result of the surrounding environment other than volatile organic compound gases, and a control unit 11 which performs control to notify of changes in the surrounding environment when the second output values ​​of the CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, and temperature and humidity sensor 17 exceed a threshold. The control unit 11 does not perform control to notify based on the detection result of the VOC sensor 16 alone, and performs control to change the threshold values ​​of the CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, and temperature and humidity sensor 17 based on the first output value of the VOC sensor 16.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an abnormality detection system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, abnormality detection systems are known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a fire alarm (abnormality detection system) including a CO sensor that detects carbon monoxide concentration and a smoke sensor that detects smoke concentration. In the fire alarm of Patent Document 1, an alarm is issued when the carbon monoxide concentration detected by the CO sensor exceeds a threshold value for issuing an alarm, and an alarm is issued when the smoke concentration detected by the smoke sensor exceeds a threshold value for issuing an alarm. Further, when the carbon monoxide concentration detected by the CO sensor exceeds a threshold value lower than the threshold value for issuing an alarm, the threshold value for issuing a smoke alarm is lowered.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the initial stages of a fire caused by high temperatures in electrical equipment, volatile organic compound (VOC) gases are often detected earlier than carbon monoxide gases. Therefore, to detect abnormalities early, it is desirable to detect VOC gases and issue an alarm. However, VOC gases can be generated not only by abnormal conditions such as high temperatures in electrical equipment, but also by cleaning or spraying. Therefore, there is a risk of false alarms when VOC gases not caused by an abnormality are detected. Thus, it is desirable to be able to report abnormalities early while also suppressing false alarms.

[0006] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one of its objectives is to provide an anomaly detection system that can notify of anomalies early and suppress false alarms. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To achieve the above objective, this invention 1 The anomaly detection system in this situation is based on the detection results of volatile organic compound gases. It is calculated using the first reference value for calculating the concentration index value of volatile organic compound gases. The first sensor outputs a first output value, and the detection results of the surrounding environment other than volatile organic compound gases. It is calculated using a second reference value for calculating an index value related to the detection result. The system includes a detection unit that includes a second sensor that outputs a second output value, and a control unit that performs control to notify of changes in the surrounding environment when the second output value of the second sensor exceeds a threshold value. The first reference value is updated based on past first output values, while the second reference value is not updated. The control unit does not perform notification control based solely on the detection result of the first sensor, and instead performs control to change the threshold value of the second sensor based on the first output value of the first sensor.

[0008] This invention 1In this anomaly detection system, the control unit does not perform notification control based solely on the detection result of the first sensor, but instead performs control to change the threshold of the second sensor based on the first output value of the first sensor. As a result, when the concentration of volatile organic compounds is higher than normal, the threshold for notification by the second sensor, which detects changes in the surrounding environment, can be lowered, thus shortening the time until the second output value from the second sensor reaches the threshold. Furthermore, even if a higher-than-normal level of volatile organic compound gas is detected, no notification is given, thus suppressing false alarms caused by the generation of volatile organic compounds that are not due to an anomaly. As a result, anomalies can be notified early, and false alarms can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the first reference value for detecting volatile organic compounds, which changes depending on the environment, can be adjusted to match the environment, the threshold value of the second sensor can be changed at a timing appropriate to the environment based on the first output value of the first sensor. In addition, by not updating the second reference value of the second sensor, it is possible to suppress delays in detecting abnormalities caused by updating the reference value to a higher value. Regarding the statement "control is not performed to notify based on the detection result of the first sensor alone," "notifying" means notifying of an abnormality, and for example, it could also mean "issuing the main alarm." In other words, in this invention, it is sufficient to have a configuration in which no abnormality is not notified (no main alarm is issued) based on the detection result of the first sensor alone. Furthermore, in this invention, a preliminary alarm may be issued to indicate that volatile organic compounds are being generated based on the detection result of the first sensor alone.

[0009] the above 1 In an anomaly detection system in this context, preferably, the second sensor detects at least one of the surrounding environment elements: carbon monoxide, smoke, temperature, and hydrogen. The control unit controls the second sensor to reduce its threshold value when the first output value of the first sensor satisfies predetermined conditions. With this configuration, when the first output value of the first sensor satisfies predetermined conditions and the concentration of volatile organic compounds becomes higher than normal, the threshold value of the second sensor, which detects at least one of the surrounding environment elements: carbon monoxide, smoke, temperature, and hydrogen, can be reduced. This allows for early detection of carbon monoxide, smoke, temperature rise, and hydrogen generated due to an anomaly.

[0010] An anomaly detection system in the second aspect of this invention includes a detection unit that includes a first sensor that outputs a first output value based on the detection result of volatile organic compound gases and a second sensor that outputs a second output value based on the detection result of the surrounding environment other than volatile organic compound gases, and a control unit that performs control to notify of a change in the surrounding environment when the second output value of the second sensor exceeds a threshold, wherein the control unit does not perform control to notify based on the detection result of the first sensor alone, but performs control to change the threshold of the second sensor based on the first output value of the first sensor, and the second sensor detects carbon monoxide as part of the surrounding environment.

[0011] An anomaly detection system in the third aspect of this invention includes a detection unit that includes a first sensor that outputs a first output value based on the detection result of volatile organic compound gases and a second sensor that outputs a second output value based on the detection result of the surrounding environment other than volatile organic compound gases, and a control unit that performs control to notify of a change in the surrounding environment when the second output value of the second sensor exceeds a threshold, wherein the control unit does not perform control to notify based on the detection result of the first sensor alone, and performs control to change the threshold of the second sensor based on the first output value of the first sensor. The detection unit includes a first detection unit and a second detection unit, which are provided separately from each other. The first detection unit can switch between a standalone mode, which detects volatile organic compound gases on its own, and a reference mode, which detects volatile organic compound gases by referring to the detection results of the second detection unit. When the first detection unit is in standalone mode, the control unit does not perform notification control based on the detection results of the first sensor alone. When the first detection unit is in reference mode, a reference threshold is set based on the detection results of the second detection unit, and notification control is performed when the first output value of the first sensor of the first detection unit exceeds the reference threshold. This If the first detection unit is set to reference mode, for example, if the first detection unit detects volatile organic compounds using a reference threshold set based on the detection result of the second detection unit, and the second detection unit does not detect volatile organic compounds, then it can notify that volatile organic compounds are being generated in the space where the first detection unit is located due to an abnormality. This makes it possible to notify of the generation of volatile organic compounds caused by an abnormality while suppressing false alarms of volatile organic compound generation.

[0012] In this case, preferably, when both the first detection unit and the second detection unit can communicate with the control unit, the mode of the first detection unit can be selected between standalone mode and reference mode. When the first detection unit can communicate with the control unit but the second detection unit cannot, the mode of the first detection unit can be selected to standalone mode. With this configuration, if multiple detection units are provided, it is possible to select the reference mode, so that it is possible to detect that volatile organic compounds are being generated due to an abnormality. Also, when only one detection unit is provided, it is not possible to select the reference mode, so false alarms caused by the detection of volatile organic compounds by only one detection unit can be suppressed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, as described above, an abnormality can be notified at an early stage, and erroneous notification of an abnormality can be suppressed. [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating an abnormality detection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 2 is a block diagram illustrating a detection unit of an abnormality detection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] 3 is a diagram for explaining updating of a reference value of a sensor of an abnormality detection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a detection mode selection screen of an abnormality detection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] 5 is a diagram for explaining correction of a sensor threshold value in a reference mode of an abnormality detection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 6 is a diagram for explaining correction of a sensor threshold value in a standalone mode of an abnormality detection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] 7 is a diagram for explaining an operation example of a detection unit in a reference mode of an abnormality detection system according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] 8 is a diagram for explaining an operation example of a detection unit in a standalone mode of an abnormality detection system according to an embodiment. [Mode for Carrying Out the Invention]

[0015] Hereinafter, an embodiment embodying the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0016] The configuration of the abnormality detection system 100 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8.

[0017] (Overall Configuration of Abnormality Detection System) The anomaly detection system 100 is a system that detects gases and smoke generated due to abnormally high temperatures and notifies (issues this warning) of the anomaly. The anomaly detection system 100 is capable of detecting multiple types of gases. The anomaly detection system 100 is capable of detecting the generation of smoke. The anomaly detection system 100 is capable of detecting abnormally high temperatures. As shown in Figure 1, the anomaly detection system 100 comprises multiple detection units 10 (detection units 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d) located within the facility 200. The anomaly detection system 100 also comprises a communication device 20 that is communicatively connected to the multiple detection units 10. The anomaly detection system 100 also comprises an information terminal 30. The anomaly detection system 100 also comprises a cloud server 40 that is communicatively connected to the multiple detection units 10 via a network 50. The cloud server 40 is an example of the "control unit" in the claims.

[0018] The anomaly detection system 100 processes the detection results detected by the detection unit 10 using the cloud server 40, thereby enabling the cloud server 40 to notify of the anomaly.

[0019] Multiple detection units 10 (detection units 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d) each have a similar configuration. Specifically, as shown in Figure 2, a detection unit 10 includes a control unit 11, a communication unit 12, a battery 13, a CO sensor 14, a smoke sensor 15, a VOC sensor 16, and a temperature and humidity sensor 17. The detection units 10 are located in equipment 210 within a facility 200, or in the space within the facility 200. In the example shown in Figure 1, detection unit 10a is located outside the equipment 210 within the facility 200. Detection units 10b to 10d are each located within the equipment 210. The facility 200 is, for example, a company, factory, data center, construction site, hospital, commercial facility, train station, airport, public facility, etc. The equipment 210 is, for example, heat-generating equipment such as power distribution boards, switchboards, control panels, power converters, transformers, motors, generators, and server computers. Furthermore, facility 210 is a room separated by a wall.

[0020] Each of the multiple detection units 10 is connected to the cloud server 40 via a communication device 20 and a network 50. Each of the multiple detection units 10 transmits gas detection results, smoke detection results, temperature, and humidity to the cloud server 40. For example, each of the multiple detection units 10 transmits gas detection results, smoke detection results, temperature, and humidity to the cloud server 40 at predetermined time intervals. The cloud server 40 then determines an anomaly based on the gas detection results, smoke detection results, temperature, and humidity detected by the multiple detection units 10. The anomalies that are determined include, for example, high temperature anomalies caused by more heat generation than normal, and anomalies where the detected gas concentration is higher than normal. In other words, the anomaly detection system 100 reports high temperature anomalies and high gas concentration anomalies as anomalies.

[0021] The control unit 11 of the detection unit 10 controls each part of the detection unit 10. The control unit 11 includes a processing unit that performs processing using a program and a memory used as a work area when performing processing. The control unit 11 controls the detection processing by each sensor (CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, VOC sensor 16, temperature and humidity sensor 17). Specifically, the control unit 11 drives the CO sensor 14 at predetermined time intervals to detect carbon monoxide. The control unit 11 also drives the smoke sensor 15 at predetermined time intervals to detect smoke. The control unit 11 also drives the VOC sensor 16 at predetermined time intervals to detect volatile organic compound gases (VOC gases). The control unit 11 also detects temperature and humidity using the temperature and humidity sensor 17.

[0022] The control unit 11 also acquires detection result signals from each sensor (CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, VOC sensor 16, and temperature / humidity sensor 17). The control unit 11 also processes the signals acquired from each sensor (CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, and VOC sensor 16) and converts them into concentration index values. The concentration index value is, for example, an integer value between 0 and 100. The control unit 11 also controls the transmission of the concentration index values ​​acquired by each sensor (CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, and VOC sensor 16) to the cloud server 40 via the communication unit 12. The control unit 11 also controls the transmission of the temperature and humidity detected by the temperature / humidity sensor 17 to the cloud server 40 via the communication unit 12. The control unit 11 also determines gas generation using the acquired concentration index values ​​of various gases and threshold values.

[0023] The communication unit 12 communicates with the communication device 20. For example, the communication unit 12 performs short-range wireless communication. Specifically, the communication unit 12 can communicate using general-purpose communication standards such as Bluetooth communication, LAN communication, LoRa communication, WAN communication, and LoRaWAN communication.

[0024] The battery 13 supplies power to each part of the detection unit 10. For example, the battery 13 is either a non-rechargeable primary battery or a rechargeable secondary battery. The battery 13 is also built into the detection unit 10. Power may also be supplied to the detection unit 10 from an external source by connecting a USB terminal or the like. Alternatively, a solar panel may be connected to the detection unit 10 to supply power generated by solar energy to the detection unit 10.

[0025] The CO sensor 14 detects the concentration of carbon monoxide. The CO sensor 14 is, for example, a semiconductor sensor or an electrochemical sensor. If the CO sensor 14 is a semiconductor sensor, a change in electrical resistance is measured, and the measured electrical resistance is converted into a concentration index value. If the CO sensor 14 is an electrochemical sensor, a change in current is measured, and the measured current is converted into a concentration index value. In other words, the CO sensor 14 outputs a carbon monoxide concentration index value as a second output value based on the detection result of the surrounding environment other than volatile organic compound gases (the detection result of carbon monoxide). Note that the CO sensor 14 is an example of the "second sensor" in the claims.

[0026] The smoke sensor 15 detects the concentration of smoke. The smoke sensor 15 is, for example, a photoelectric sensor or an ionization sensor. In other words, the smoke sensor 15 outputs a smoke concentration index value as a second output value based on the detection result of the surrounding environment other than volatile organic compound gases (smoke detection result). Note that the smoke sensor 15 is an example of the "second sensor" in the claims.

[0027] The VOC sensor 16 detects the concentration of volatile organic compound gases (VOC gases). The VOC sensor 16 is, for example, a semiconductor sensor. The VOC sensor 16 measures changes in electrical resistance, and the measured electrical resistance is converted into a concentration index value. In other words, the VOC sensor 16 outputs a concentration index value of volatile organic compound gases as a first output value based on the detection result of the volatile organic compound gases. Note that the VOC sensor 16 is an example of the "first sensor" in the claims.

[0028] The temperature and humidity sensor 17 detects temperature and humidity. The temperature is output as a value in degrees Celsius (°C), for example. The humidity is output as a value in relative humidity (%), for example.

[0029] The communication device 20 is installed within the facility 200. The communication device 20 can communicate with multiple detection units 10. The communication device 20 can also communicate with the information terminal 30. The communication device 20 can communicate with the detection units 10 using general-purpose communication standards such as Bluetooth, LAN, LoRa, WAN, and LoRaWAN. The communication device 20 can also communicate with the network 50. The communication device 20 can also communicate with the cloud server 40 via the network 50. Furthermore, the communication device 20 has a gateway function that connects networks with different communication protocols and relays and converts data.

[0030] The information terminal 30 is a communication-enabled information device such as a smartphone or tablet. The information terminal 30 is portable and operable by the user. The information terminal 30 can connect to the network 50 via the communication device 20. The information terminal 30 can also connect to the network 50 via mobile communication. Furthermore, the information terminal 30 can communicate with the cloud server 40 via the network 50. The information terminal 30 can display information of the detection results detected by the detection unit 10. The information terminal 30 can also display the gas detection results determined by the cloud server 40. Furthermore, the information terminal 30 can configure the anomaly detection application executed by the cloud server 40.

[0031] The cloud server 40 is located on the cloud, connected to the network 50. The cloud server 40 performs anomaly detection processing by executing applications. For example, the cloud server 40 detects anomalies and signs of an impending fire. The cloud server 40 is connected to multiple detection units 10 via the communication device 20. The cloud server 40 acquires detection results from the multiple detection units 10 and determines whether an anomaly has occurred. If the cloud server 40 determines that an anomaly has occurred, it controls the system to issue an alarm. For example, the cloud server 40 notifies the information terminal 30 of the registered facility 200 user (on-site staff) and issues an alarm. The cloud server 40 also activates alarm equipment such as warning lights installed in the facility 200 to issue an alarm. The cloud server 40 also controls the system to change the measurement conditions of each of the multiple detection units 10. The cloud server 40 also records the concentration index values ​​of each gas acquired from the detection units 10 and compiles statistics. For example, the cloud server 40 calculates the mean, maximum, minimum, mode, median, variance, and standard deviation from multiple data points of concentration index values ​​for each gas, and obtains statistics. The cloud server 40 then displays the statistically calculated concentration index values ​​on the information terminal 30 in the form of graphs or tables. For example, the cloud server 40 takes the maximum value for each gas concentration index value over a 24-hour period and displays a chart on the cloud application in units of time (e.g., weekly, monthly). This allows users to check long-term field information and use it to set thresholds for each field. The cloud server 40 may also use AI to perform data processing such as statistics and threshold setting processing.

[0032] In this embodiment, the cloud server 40 controls the system to notify of changes in the surrounding environment when the output values ​​of the CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, and temperature / humidity sensor 17 exceed threshold values. Specifically, the cloud server 40 compares the carbon monoxide concentration index value output by the CO sensor 14 with the carbon monoxide threshold value and issues an alarm (notifies of an abnormality) when the carbon monoxide concentration index value output by the CO sensor 14 exceeds the threshold value. The cloud server 40 also compares the smoke concentration index value output by the smoke sensor 15 with the smoke threshold value and issues an alarm (notifies of an abnormality) when the smoke concentration index value output by the smoke sensor 15 exceeds the threshold value. Furthermore, the cloud server 40 compares the temperature index value output by the temperature / humidity sensor 17 with the temperature threshold value and issues an alarm (notifies of an abnormality) when the temperature index value output by the temperature / humidity sensor 17 exceeds the threshold value.

[0033] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the cloud server 40 does not perform control to report an abnormality (issue this alarm) based solely on the detection result of the VOC sensor 16, but instead performs control to change the threshold values ​​of the CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, and temperature / humidity sensor 17 based on the concentration index value of volatile organic compound gases from the VOC sensor 16. Specifically, the cloud server 40 reduces the threshold values ​​of the CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, and temperature / humidity sensor 17 when the first output value of the VOC sensor 16 meets predetermined conditions. Note that even if the cloud server 40 does not report an abnormality based solely on the detection result of the VOC sensor 16, it may perform control to issue a preliminary alarm based solely on the detection result of the VOC sensor 16 indicating that VOC gas is being generated. Alternatively, the cloud server 40 may perform control to issue a preliminary alarm based solely on the detection result of the VOC sensor 16 indicating that there is a possibility of an abnormality due to the generation of VOC gas.

[0034] Furthermore, the VOC sensor 16 updates its first reference value, which serves as the standard for detecting volatile organic compound gases, based on past first output values. However, the sensor's resistance value may fluctuate due to long-term use. Recalibration using zero gas (clean air) is effective in correcting for this resistance fluctuation. However, in situations where zero gas is not readily available, the sensor's resistance value in clean air is estimated from the temporal behavior of the sensor's resistance value after temperature correction and used in concentration calculations. This estimated sensor resistance value in clean air is called the reference value and is calculated using the following procedure. The VOC sensor 16 calculates and updates this reference value as the first reference value. The first reference value is used to process the sensor resistance value detected by the VOC sensor 16 and calculate the concentration index value of volatile organic compound gases.

[0035] First, the initial first reference value is set to the temperature-corrected sensor resistance value obtained first. Then, while the sensor is running, if the temperature-corrected sensor resistance value obtained becomes greater than the set first reference value, the first reference value is immediately updated to the obtained resistance value. In other words, when the resistance value increases, it is determined that the ambient air is becoming cleaner, and the first reference value is updated accordingly.

[0036] Furthermore, the timer starts from the last update of the first reference value, and if the first reference value is not updated for a predetermined period (for example, 24 hours), the maximum resistance value in that period becomes the first reference value for the next period. If the temperature-compensated resistance value becomes greater than the reference value during the timer count and the first reference value is updated, the timer is reset and the timer starts again for the predetermined period.

[0037] Furthermore, if the VOC sensor 16 enters the alarm ON state, the timer is stopped. The first reference value is not updated until the alarm ON state is cleared. After the alarm ON state is cleared, the temperature-corrected sensor resistance value acquired first after the clearing is set as the new first reference value.

[0038] For example, in the example shown in Figure 3, at time t0, the temperature-compensated sensor resistance value is first acquired, and this value is set as the first reference value. Then, until time t1, no resistance value exceeding the set first reference value is acquired, so the first reference value remains unchanged. Also, since the alarm is turned ON at time t1, the first reference value remains unchanged until time t2 when the alarm is turned OFF. When the alarm is turned OFF at time t2, the first reference value is set to the sensor resistance value acquired at time t2. Note that in this example, the threshold for turning the alarm ON is set higher than the threshold for turning the alarm OFF.

[0039] Furthermore, similar to the VOC sensor 16, the smoke sensor 15 also has a reference value for smoke detection that is updated based on past output values.

[0040] On the other hand, for the CO sensor 14 and the temperature and humidity sensor 17, the second reference value, which serves as the basis for detecting the surrounding environment, is not updated. In other words, for the CO sensor 14, a fixed value is used for the second reference value used to calculate the concentration index value from the resistance value, without being updated. Similarly, for the temperature and humidity sensor 17, a fixed value is used for the second reference value used to calculate the temperature index value and humidity index value, without being updated.

[0041] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the detection unit 10 can be switched between a standalone mode, which detects volatile organic compound gases independently, and a reference mode, which detects volatile organic compound gases by referring to the detection results of other detection units 10. For example, when the detection units 10 (10b, 10c, 10d) located inside the equipment 210 are set to reference mode, they detect volatile organic compound gases by referring to the detection results of detection unit 10a located outside the equipment 210. In this case, detection units 10b, 10c, and 10d are examples of the "first detection unit" in the claims, and detection unit 10a is an example of the "second detection unit". In addition, in reference mode, it is possible to select and set the other detection units 10 to be referenced.

[0042] In reference mode, by detecting volatile organic compound gases at multiple locations using multiple detection units 10, it is possible to determine whether the volatile organic compound gases are being generated in a specific piece of equipment 210 due to a temperature rise, or in a facility 200 due to other factors (such as spraying or cleaning).

[0043] Furthermore, in reference mode, the detection unit 10 may refer to the detection results of other detection units for smoke detection, carbon monoxide detection, and temperature detection, in addition to detecting volatile organic compound gases. For example, if the detection units 10 (10b, 10c, 10d) located inside the equipment 210 are set to reference mode, the detection results of the detection unit 10a located outside the equipment 210 will be referred to for smoke detection, carbon monoxide detection, and temperature detection.

[0044] When the detection unit 10 is in standalone mode, the cloud server 40 does not perform any abnormality notification (issue an alarm) based solely on the detection result of the VOC sensor 16. In other words, in standalone mode, the detection result of the VOC sensor 16 is used to correct the thresholds of the CO sensor 14 and the smoke sensor 15. When the detection unit 10 is in reference mode, the cloud server 40 sets a reference threshold based on the detection results of other detection units 10, and performs abnormality notification (issues an alarm) when the first output value of the VOC sensor 16 of the detection unit 10 exceeds the reference threshold. In other words, in reference mode, the detection result of the VOC sensor 16 is used both to correct the thresholds of the CO sensor 14 and the smoke sensor 15, and for detecting volatile organic compound gases.

[0045] When both the detection unit 10 and other detection units 10 can communicate with the cloud server 40, the detection unit 10 can select between standalone mode and reference mode. For example, as shown in Figure 4, when multiple detection units 10 can communicate with the cloud server 40, the cloud server 40 displays an operation screen on the information terminal 30 that allows the user to select the detection mode from reference mode and standalone mode. In addition, the cloud server 40 displays on the operation screen that a reference device can be selected when reference mode is selected. Furthermore, the cloud server 40 displays on the operation screen that the user can select the percentage of threshold correction by the reference device.

[0046] The reference device corrects the threshold value (reference threshold) by correcting the volatile organic compound gas threshold value of the monitoring detection unit 10 based on the volatile organic compound gas concentration index value of the reference device's detection unit 10. In other words, it compares the volatile organic compound gas concentration index value of the reference device's detection unit 10 with the volatile organic compound gas concentration index value of the monitoring detection unit 10, and if they are changing in the same way, it prevents the alarm from being issued. For example, as shown in Figure 5, the correction value is calculated by multiplying the concentration index value of the reference device's detection unit 10 by a predetermined percentage. In this case, the predetermined percentage is set to 0.5 (50%). The threshold value is then corrected by adding the calculated correction value to the threshold value of the monitoring detection unit 10.

[0047] If one detection unit 10 can communicate with the cloud server 40, but other detection units 10 cannot, the detection unit 10 can be set to standalone mode. In other words, if multiple detection units 10 are not coordinating with the cloud server 40 and are communicating individually, the reference mode cannot be selected. In this case, only standalone mode is selectable.

[0048] In standalone mode, no alarm is issued based on the detection results of the VOC sensor 16. Also in standalone mode, if the concentration index value of volatile organic compound gases detected by the VOC sensor 16 exceeds a threshold, the threshold value of the carbon monoxide concentration index value detected by the CO sensor 14 is reduced. Also, if the concentration index value of volatile organic compound gases detected by the VOC sensor 16 exceeds a threshold, the threshold value of the smoke concentration index value detected by the smoke sensor 15 is reduced. Also, if the concentration index value of volatile organic compound gases detected by the VOC sensor 16 exceeds a threshold, the threshold value of the temperature index value detected by the temperature and humidity sensor 17 is reduced.

[0049] In the example shown in Figure 6, at time t11, if the concentration index value of volatile organic compound gas detected by the VOC sensor 16 exceeds a threshold, the threshold values ​​for the carbon monoxide concentration index value of the CO sensor 14, the temperature index value of the temperature and humidity sensor 17, and the smoke concentration index value of the smoke sensor 15 are reduced. Furthermore, at time t12, if the concentration index value of volatile organic compound gas detected by the VOC sensor 16 falls below the threshold, the threshold values ​​for the carbon monoxide concentration index value of the CO sensor 14, the temperature index value of the temperature and humidity sensor 17, and the smoke concentration index value of the smoke sensor 15 are increased back to their original values.

[0050] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 6, the carbon monoxide concentration index value of the CO sensor 14 exceeds a small, corrected threshold between time t21 and time t22. In this case, an alarm is issued indicating that carbon monoxide is being generated.

[0051] Furthermore, in the example shown in Figure 6, the smoke concentration index value of the smoke sensor 15 exceeds a small, corrected threshold between time t31 and time t32. In this case, an alarm is issued indicating that smoke is being generated.

[0052] Next, with reference to Figure 7, an example of the operation of the detection unit 10 in reference mode will be described.

[0053] In reference mode, the cloud server 40 obtains the concentration index values ​​of volatile organic compound gases, carbon monoxide, smoke, and temperature from the monitoring detection unit 10. The cloud server 40 also obtains the concentration index values ​​of volatile organic compound gases, carbon monoxide, smoke, and temperature from the reference detection unit 10.

[0054] In step S1, the cloud server 40 calculates a correction value for the threshold of volatile organic compound gas used in the monitoring detection unit 10 based on the concentration index value of volatile organic compound gas obtained from the reference detection unit 10. The cloud server 40 also calculates a correction value for the threshold of carbon monoxide used in the monitoring detection unit 10 based on the concentration index value of carbon monoxide obtained from the reference detection unit 10. The cloud server 40 also calculates a correction value for the threshold of smoke used in the monitoring detection unit 10 based on the concentration index value of smoke obtained from the reference detection unit 10. The cloud server 40 also calculates a correction value for the threshold of temperature used in the monitoring detection unit 10 based on the temperature index value obtained from the reference detection unit 10.

[0055] In step S2, the cloud server 40 corrects the threshold value for volatile organic compound gases in the monitoring detection unit 10. In step S3, the cloud server 40 corrects the threshold value for carbon monoxide in the monitoring detection unit 10. In step S4, the cloud server 40 corrects the threshold value for smoke in the monitoring detection unit 10. In step S5, the cloud server 40 corrects the threshold value for temperature in the monitoring detection unit 10.

[0056] The cloud server 40 compares the concentration index values ​​for volatile organic compound gases, carbon monoxide, smoke, and temperature obtained from the monitoring detection unit 10 with the corrected threshold values ​​to determine whether the thresholds are exceeded. In step S6, the cloud server 40 determines the alarm level for volatile organic compound gases, carbon monoxide, smoke, and temperature.

[0057] If the alarm level is "Continue Monitoring," the cloud server 40 continues monitoring volatile organic compound gases, carbon monoxide, smoke, and temperature using the monitoring detection unit 10 in step S7. If the alarm level is "Preliminary Alarm," the cloud server 40 controls the system to issue a preliminary alarm in step S8. If the alarm level is "Main Alarm," the cloud server 40 controls the system to issue a main alarm in step S9.

[0058] Next, with reference to Figure 8, an example of the operation of the detection unit 10 in standalone mode will be described.

[0059] In standalone mode, the cloud server 40 obtains the concentration index values ​​of volatile organic compound gases, carbon monoxide, smoke, and temperature from the detection unit 10.

[0060] In step S11, the cloud server 40 determines whether the concentration index value of the volatile organic compound gas obtained from the detection unit 10 exceeds a threshold. If it exceeds the threshold, the cloud server 40 corrects the threshold in steps S12, S13, and S14.

[0061] Specifically, in step S12, the cloud server 40 corrects the carbon monoxide threshold of the detection unit 10. Also, in step S13, the cloud server 40 corrects the smoke threshold of the detection unit 10. Also, in step S14, the cloud server 40 corrects the temperature threshold of the detection unit 10.

[0062] The cloud server 40 compares the carbon monoxide concentration index value, smoke concentration index value, and temperature index value obtained from the detection unit 10 with a corrected threshold value to determine whether the threshold value is exceeded. In step S15, the cloud server 40 determines the alarm level for carbon monoxide, smoke, and temperature.

[0063] If the alarm level is "Continue Monitoring," the cloud server 40 continues monitoring carbon monoxide, smoke, and temperature using the monitoring detection unit 10 in step S16. If the alarm level is "Preliminary Alarm," the cloud server 40 controls the system to issue a preliminary alarm in step S17. If the alarm level is "Main Alarm," the cloud server 40 controls the system to issue a main alarm in step S18.

[0064] (Effects of the embodiment) In this embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

[0065] In this embodiment, as described above, the cloud server 40 does not perform control to notify of an abnormality based solely on the detection result of the VOC sensor 16, but instead performs control to change the threshold values ​​of the CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, and temperature / humidity sensor 17 based on the first output value of the VOC sensor 16. As a result, when the concentration of volatile organic compounds is higher than normal, the threshold values ​​for notification from the CO sensor 14 and smoke sensor 15, which detect changes in the surrounding environment, can be lowered, thus shortening the time until the second output values ​​from the CO sensor 14 and smoke sensor 15 reach the threshold. Furthermore, even if a higher-than-normal level of volatile organic compound gas is detected, no notification is given, thus suppressing false alarms caused by the generation of volatile organic compounds not resulting from an abnormality. As a result, abnormalities can be notified early, and false alarms can be suppressed.

[0066] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the cloud server 40 controls the CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, and temperature / humidity sensor 17 to reduce their threshold values ​​when the first output value of the VOC sensor 16 satisfies predetermined conditions. As a result, when the first output value of the VOC sensor 16 satisfies predetermined conditions and the concentration of volatile organic compounds becomes higher than normal, the threshold values ​​of the CO sensor 14, smoke sensor 15, and temperature / humidity sensor 17, which detect carbon monoxide, smoke, and temperature as part of the surrounding environment, can be reduced, allowing for early detection of carbon monoxide, smoke, and temperature increases caused by abnormalities.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the VOC sensor 16 updates its first reference value, which serves as the basis for detecting volatile organic compound gases, based on past first output values, while the CO sensor 14 and temperature / humidity sensor 17 do not update their second reference values, which serve as the basis for detecting the surrounding environment. This allows the first reference value for detecting volatile organic compounds, which changes depending on the environment, to be adjusted to the environment, so that the threshold values ​​of the CO sensor 14 and temperature / humidity sensor 17 can be changed at a timing appropriate to the environment based on the first output value of the VOC sensor 16. In addition, by not updating the second reference values ​​of the CO sensor 14 and temperature / humidity sensor 17, it is possible to suppress delays in detecting abnormalities caused by updating the reference values ​​to a higher level.

[0068] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, the detection unit 10 can be switched between a standalone mode in which it independently detects volatile organic compound gases and a reference mode in which it detects volatile organic compound gases by referring to the detection results of other detection units 10. When the detection unit 10 is in standalone mode, the cloud server 40 does not perform control to notify of an abnormality based on the detection result of the VOC sensor 16 alone. When the detection unit 10 is in reference mode, a reference threshold is set based on the detection results of other detection units 10, and control is performed to notify of an abnormality when the first output value of the VOC sensor 16 of the detection unit 10 exceeds the reference threshold. As a result, if the detection unit 10 is in reference mode, for example, if the detection unit 10 detects volatile organic compounds using the reference threshold set based on the detection results of other detection units 10, and the other detection units 10 do not detect volatile organic compounds, it is possible to notify that volatile organic compounds are being generated in the space where the detection unit 10 is located due to an abnormality. This makes it possible to notify of the generation of volatile organic compounds due to an abnormality while suppressing false alarms of volatile organic compound generation.

[0069] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as described above, when both the detection unit 10 and the other detection unit 10 can communicate with the cloud server 40, the mode of the detection unit 10 can be selected between standalone mode and reference mode. Also, when the detection unit 10 can communicate with the cloud server 40, but the other detection unit 10 cannot communicate with the cloud server 40, the mode of the detection unit 10 can be selected as standalone mode. This allows for the selection of reference mode when multiple detection units 10 are provided, thereby enabling detection of the generation of volatile organic compounds due to an abnormality. However, when only one detection unit 10 is provided, reference mode cannot be selected, thus suppressing false alarms caused by the detection of volatile organic compounds by only one detection unit.

[0070] (modified version) It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the description of the embodiments above, and further includes all modifications (exceptions) within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0071] For example, the above embodiment shows an example of a configuration in which the anomaly detection system is provided with multiple (four) detection units, but the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the anomaly detection system may be provided with one detection unit. Alternatively, the anomaly detection system may be provided with two, three, or five or more detection units.

[0072] Furthermore, while the above embodiment shows an example of a configuration in which the control for providing notifications based on the detection results of the detection unit is performed by a cloud server located outside the facility, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the control for providing notifications based on the detection results of the detection unit may be performed by a device located within the facility. For example, the control for providing notifications based on the detection results of the detection unit may be performed by a computer or information terminal located within the facility. Alternatively, the control for providing notifications based on the detection results of the detection unit may be performed by a control unit located within the detection unit.

[0073] Furthermore, while the above embodiment shows an example of a configuration in which multiple detection units are connected to a communication device via wireless communication, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, the detection units and the communication device may be connected to each other via wired communication. Alternatively, the detection units may be connected to a cloud server via a network using wireless mobile communication, without going through the facility's communication device.

[0074] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example configuration in which a CO sensor, a smoke sensor, and a temperature / humidity sensor are provided as second sensors in the detection unit, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, a hydrogen sensor for detecting hydrogen may be provided as a second sensor in the detection unit. In this case, the reference value that serves as the detection standard for the hydrogen sensor may be updated based on past output values. Alternatively, at least one of the CO sensor, smoke sensor, temperature / humidity sensor, and hydrogen sensor may be provided as a second sensor in the detection unit.

[0075] Furthermore, while the above embodiment shows an example of a configuration in which the detection unit can be switched between a standalone mode for detecting volatile organic compound gases independently and a reference mode for detecting volatile organic compound gases by referring to the detection results of other detection units 10, the present invention is not limited thereto. In the present invention, the detection unit may be set to either the standalone mode or the reference mode.

[0076] Furthermore, although the above embodiment shows an example of a configuration in which there is one detection unit to reference when the detection unit is operated in reference mode, the present invention is not limited to this. In the present invention, there may be two or more detection units to reference when the detection unit is operated in reference mode. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0077] 10 Detection unit 10a Detection unit 10b, 10c, 10d detection unit 11 Control Unit 12 Communications Department 13 batteries 14. CO sensor (second sensor) 15. Smoke sensor (second sensor) 16 VOC sensor (first sensor) 17. Temperature and humidity sensor (second sensor) 20 Communication equipment 30 Information terminals 40 Cloud Server (Control Unit) 100 Anomaly Detection Systems

Claims

1. A detection unit including: a first sensor that outputs a first output value calculated using the detection result of volatile organic compound gas and a first reference value for calculating the concentration index value of the volatile organic compound gas; and a second sensor that outputs a second output value calculated using the detection result of the surrounding environment other than the volatile organic compound gas and a second reference value for calculating an index value related to the detection result; The system includes a control unit that performs control to notify of changes in the surrounding environment when the second output value of the second sensor exceeds a threshold value, The first reference value is updated based on the previous first output value. The second reference value mentioned above will not be updated. An anomaly detection system in which the control unit does not perform notification control based on the detection result of the first sensor alone, and instead performs control to change the threshold value of the second sensor based on the first output value of the first sensor.

2. The second sensor detects at least one of the following as part of the surrounding environment: carbon monoxide, smoke, temperature, and hydrogen. The anomaly detection system according to claim 1, wherein the control unit controls the second sensor to reduce the threshold value when the first output value of the first sensor satisfies a predetermined condition.

3. A detection unit including a first sensor that outputs a first output value based on the detection result of volatile organic compound gases, and a second sensor that outputs a second output value based on the detection result of the surrounding environment other than the volatile organic compound gases, The system includes a control unit that performs control to notify of changes in the surrounding environment when the second output value of the second sensor exceeds a threshold value, The control unit does not perform notification control based on the detection result of the first sensor alone, and instead performs control to change the threshold value of the second sensor based on the first output value of the first sensor. The second sensor is an anomaly detection system that detects carbon monoxide as part of the surrounding environment.

4. A detection unit including a first sensor that outputs a first output value based on the detection result of volatile organic compound gases, and a second sensor that outputs a second output value based on the detection result of the surrounding environment other than the volatile organic compound gases, The system includes a control unit that performs control to notify of changes in the surrounding environment when the second output value of the second sensor exceeds a threshold value, The control unit does not perform notification control based on the detection result of the first sensor alone, and instead performs control to change the threshold value of the second sensor based on the first output value of the first sensor. The detection unit includes a first detection unit and a second detection unit, which are provided separately from each other. The first detection unit is switchable between a standalone mode for detecting the volatile organic compound gas on its own and a reference mode for detecting the volatile organic compound gas by referring to the detection result of the second detection unit. An anomaly detection system wherein the control unit does not perform notification control based on the detection result of the first sensor alone when the first detection unit is in standalone mode, and when the first detection unit is in reference mode, a reference threshold is set based on the detection result of the first sensor or the second sensor of the second detection unit, and notification control is performed when the first output value of the first sensor of the first detection unit exceeds the reference threshold.

5. Anomaly detection system according to claim 4, wherein when both the first detection unit and the second detection unit are able to communicate with the control unit, the mode of the first detection unit can be selected from the standalone mode and the reference mode, and when the first detection unit is able to communicate with the control unit and the second detection unit is not able to communicate with the control unit, the mode of the first detection unit can be selected from the standalone mode.

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