Method for monitoring a movable bridge for operating cells of a plant for producing aluminium by electrolysis or for operating an anode baking furnace, and associated mobile bridge

Abstract

The invention relates, inter alia, to a method for monitoring at least one movable bridge (1) provided with an operating device (20-24) and an onboard computer (2), the method comprising: a step of recording (1000), from a remote computer (3), at least one reference data item (200); a step of acquiring (1002), from the onboard computer (2), operational data (300); a step of acquiring (1003), from the remote computer (3), the operational data (300) transmitted by the onboard computer (2); a step of generating (1005), from the remote computer (3), a comparison data item (400) representative of the comparison of the operational data (300) with the at least one reference data item (200); and a step of presenting (1006) the comparison data item (400) with a view to identifying an operational deviation in the operating device (21-24).

Description

METHOD FOR MONITORING A MOVING BRIDGE FOR OPERATING CELLS OF AN ALUMINUM ELECTROLYSIS PRODUCTION FACILITY OR FOR OPERATING AN ANODE BAKE FURNACE, AND ASSOCIATED MOVING BRIDGE

[0001] (Technical field)

[0002] The present invention relates to a method for monitoring a mobile bridge for operating cells of an electrolytic aluminum production facility or for operating an anode baking furnace. It also relates to an associated mobile bridge and monitoring system.

[0003] (General)

[0004] The industrial production of aluminum from alumina is a well-known technique. Generally, it is carried out within an electrolysis facility comprising a hall, in which a plurality of electrolysis cells are installed. Each cell is filled with an electrolytic bath comprising cryolite in particular in which the alumina is dissolved. Prebaked carbon anodes are partially immersed in the electrolytic bath. The anodes are supplied with current which passes through the bath to a cathode generally formed at the bottom of the cell.

[0005] The reactions taking place within the cell require regular maintenance. In particular, electrolysis reactions involve the gradual consumption of the anodes, which must be replaced regularly. Many cell operations must be performed on time, regularly, and with the best possible practices.

[0006] The main operations on the cells are the replacement of consumed anodes, the supply of alumina and the withdrawal of molten aluminum accumulated at the bottom of the reduction cell.

[0007] (Availability of a fleet of bridges)

[0008] To do this, several mobile bridges move around the cell hall. Operated by operators for aluminum production activities, a bridge can be brought above cells to carry out the various operations indicated.

[0009] Several bridges constitute a fleet of mobile bridges which can be relayed between them in order to ensure operational maintenance of cell production activity.

[0010] Such a fleet is particularly necessary due to the large number of cells and since a movable bridge may itself require maintenance operations. In this case, the defective bridge or one that has reached the end of its preventive maintenance is brought to a maintenance hangar to be made operational again. In this case, an operational bridge from the fleet can then be used as a replacement.

[0011] Thus, such a fleet of mobile cranes limits the risk of interruption of the production facility. However, there is a risk that several mobile cranes may be in maintenance at the same time. In this case, the maintenance hangar may be subject to mobile crane retention rates resulting in low fleet availability.

[0012] The availability of the mobile crane fleet can be anticipated by implementing preventive maintenance. Such preventive maintenance management consists of implementing indicators such as the wear rate or the efficiency rate of a machine, for example, in order to identify a potential breakdown fault. However, these indicators result from a maintenance routine implemented manually and punctually, which does not allow knowing the preventive availability status at all times.

[0013] Furthermore, these movable bridges are regularly electrically connected to elements under different high voltages. These voltages are typical of the implementation of alumina electrolysis processes in factories. In order to protect the operator from these voltages, it is necessary to ensure the electrical isolation of a movable bridge. To this end, a movable bridge is equipped with electrical isolation devices adapted for this purpose. A movable bridge is generally equipped with a system for monitoring these isolation devices.

[0014] However, electrical insulation defects can cause breakdowns or endanger the safety of the operator operating the mobile bridge. Therefore, in the event of a failure of the electrical insulation, the mobile bridge is put under maintenance.

[0015] There is therefore a need to preventatively detect an electrical insulation fault in a movable bridge.

[0016] There is also a need to preemptively identify a movable bridge that is likely to fail among the bridge fleet. Furthermore, there is a need to improve the systematic replacement of movable bridge equipment.

[0017] (Monitoring of cell operations)

[0018] Furthermore, although operations on cells or anode baking furnaces using mobile bridges are planned according to predefined operational diagrams (order of operations, operating method, etc.), each operator, although trained in these operational diagrams and respecting them, may deviate from these diagrams during operations due to difficulties, for example, when changing an anode or removing aluminium.

[0019] Thus, monitoring cell operations remains difficult to understand since it is not possible to know the details of the different operations carried out by an operator.

[0020] (Anode cooking oven)

[0021] Anodes intended to power the electrolysis process can be baked in an anode baking furnace. To bake these anodes in the baking furnace, a series of operations can be carried out using mobile bridges provided for this purpose. Similarly, a fleet of mobile bridges can be dedicated to baking the anodes in such a baking furnace.

[0022] There is also a need for monitoring of operations performed by the fleet of bridges and preventive availability monitoring for such mobile bridges for anode baking furnaces.

[0023] (Problems addressed by the invention)

[0024] The invention proposes to solve these technical problems by proposing an improved mobile bridge allowing preventive identification of failures of the latter while allowing monitoring of operations, thereby guaranteeing the safety of the operator.

[0025] (Subject 1 of the invention)

[0026] The invention firstly relates to a method implemented by a computer network for monitoring at least one mobile bridge for operating cells of an installation for producing aluminium by electrolysis or for operating an anode baking furnace, the computer network comprising at least one on-board computer and one remote computer, the mobile bridge being equipped with at least one operating device and comprises the at least one on-board computer, the method comprising the following steps:

[0027] - a step of recording, from the remote computer, at least one reference data item representative of a reference operation of the operating device or of a reference state of said at least one operating device;

[0028] - an acquisition step during an acquisition period, from the on-board computer, of operational data representative of the performance of a real operation of the operating device and / or of a real state of said at least one operating device, said real operation being associated with said reference operation or said real state being associated with said reference state;

[0029] - a step of transmission, from the on-board computer, of operational data to the remote computer;

[0030] - a step of acquiring, from said remote computer, said operational data transmitted by the on-board computer;

[0031] - a step of generating, from said remote computer, at least one comparison data item representative of the comparison of the operational data with respect to the at least one reference data item;

[0032] - a step of presenting said at least one comparison data item with a view to identifying a deviation in the operation of said operating device.

[0033] The method advantageously allows remote monitoring of actual operations and / or the actual state associated with the operating devices included in a movable bridge. This monitoring is enabled through the use of a network of computers configured to enable remote exploitation of the data associated with the operating devices of a movable bridge. Thus, for example, it is possible to remotely monitor the performance of an actual operation such as a tapping operation or, in the case of monitoring the state of an operating device, the operating temperature of said operating device. This remote monitoring then makes it possible to identify an operating deviation produced in the course of an operation or in the measurement of the state of the operating device.Monitoring the progress of an actual operation makes it possible to improve the monitoring of the operation carried out from a mobile bridge, for example, to operate a cell of an installation for the production of aluminum by electrolysis. Monitoring the actual state of the operating device makes it possible to preventively identify an operating deviation between the at least one reference data and the operational data acquired from the mobile bridge.

[0034] It will be understood that the mobile bridge can be operated automatically or by an operator.

[0035] Remote monitoring from a remote computer allows real-time or subsequent analysis of an actual operation and improves the operating practice performed from the mobile bridge. In the case of an operator-operated mobile bridge, the method improves the operator's practice by helping him understand how the operating device was manipulated during the actual operation.

[0036] According to one embodiment of the invention, the actual operation corresponds to a succession of sub-operations, the method comprising a step of identifying the sub-operation at the origin of the operating deviation or of a part of the operating deviation.

[0037] Identifying the sub-operation that is causing the operating deviation or part of the operating deviation allows actions to be taken that may relate solely to that sub-operation. It avoids fumbling around in understanding the problem and actions relating to other sub-operations that are not necessary.

[0038] Identifying the sub-operation that caused the operating deviation or part of the operating deviation also avoids analyzing the progress of each of the sub-operations of an actual operation, which would normally be done manually by inspecting the mobile bridge. This reduces the analysis time normally required by an operator to understand the origin of the deviation from the actual operation.

[0039] According to one embodiment of the invention, the operational data comprises a first index of completion of the actual operation, the first index of completion making it possible to determine an index of non-compliance of the actual operation.

[0040] According to one embodiment of the invention, the operational data comprises a second index of realization of the actual operation different from the first index of realization, the first index of realization and the second index of realization making it possible to determine the index of non-conformity of the actual operation.

[0041] The non-conformity index of the actual operation advantageously corresponds to data representative of an electrolysis reaction occurring in the cell or representative of the cooking of at least one anode in an anode furnace.

[0042] Using an actual operation non-compliance index helps improve understanding of the reasons for actual operation non-compliance.

[0043] The method may advantageously provide a step of associating the non-conformity index of the actual operation with at least one cause of non-conformity, said cause being identified from operational data acquired from the at least one operating device or from an operating device distinct from the at least one operating device equipping the mobile bridge or from an operating device of a distinct mobile bridge.

[0044] According to one embodiment of the invention, the association of said actual operation with said reference operation comprises the following steps carried out from the remote computer:

[0045] - a step of identifying the operating device;

[0046] - a step of associating the operating device with the actual operation;

[0047] - a step of associating operational data representative of the actual operation of the operating device with at least one reference data representative of the reference operation of the operating device.

[0048] For example, in the case of handling anodes on a cell of an installation for the production of aluminium by electrolysis, a mobile bridge may comprise two operating devices for this same operation, here handling clamps, used for handling anodes for carrying out an anode changing operation. The identification of the operating device and its association with the actual operation makes it possible to subsequently identify which operating device of the associated mobile bridge was used for the actual operation.

[0049] According to one embodiment of the invention, the operational data comprises information identifying the actual operation including: the identification of the operation, the identification of the movable bridge, the date of execution of the actual operation and / or the duration of execution of the actual operation.

[0050] Advantageously, said identification information of the actual operation may comprise the identification of the operator and / or the team at the origin of the actual operation.

[0051] According to one embodiment of the invention, in the case of a mobile bridge for operating cells of an installation for producing aluminum by electrolysis, the operational data comprises the identification of the cell in which the at least one bridge operates.

[0052] According to one embodiment of the invention, in the case of a mobile bridge for operating cells of an installation for producing aluminum by electrolysis, said actual operation and said reference operation correspond to an operation chosen from, in particular:

[0053] - an operation to change an anode in an electrolysis cell of the installation;

[0054] - an operation to adjust the position of an anode in an electrolysis cell of the installation;

[0055] - an operation to clean crust residues in an electrolysis cell of the installation;

[0056] - an operation of covering an anode in an electrolysis cell of the installation with an anodic powder;

[0057] - an operation of tapping a crust of alumina residue formed in an electrolysis cell of the installation;

[0058] - an operation of withdrawing liquid aluminum produced in an electrolysis cell of the installation.

[0059] It will also be possible to provide for a handling operation of removable covers of an electrolysis cell of the installation, the handling operation being carried out from the mobile bridge.

[0060] According to one embodiment of the invention, in the case of a movable bridge for operating an anode baking furnace, the operational data comprises the identification of a section of the baking furnace in which the at least one bridge operates.

[0061] According to one embodiment of the invention, in the case of a mobile bridge for operating an anode baking furnace, said actual operation and said reference operation correspond to an operation chosen from, in particular:

[0062] - a kiln removal operation;

[0063] - a loading operation;

[0064] - an operation of handling the furnace ramps;

[0065] - a maintenance operation: brushing the oven walls, straightening the oven walls.

[0066] According to one embodiment of the invention, the method is applied for monitoring a fleet of mobile bridges comprising at least one mobile bridge described according to the invention, the computer network comprising the on-board computers of the mobile bridges of said fleet and the remote computer, for each bridge the operational data associated with the operating device of the corresponding bridge are acquired by the remote computer, the identification of the operating deviation of said operating device of the corresponding bridge being determined from all the operational data of the mobile bridges of said fleet.

[0067] (Monitoring operations from a fleet of mobile bridges)

[0068] According to one embodiment of the invention, the operational data acquired during the acquisition step from the on-board computer comprises the acquisition of first operational data of an operating device of a first bridge, the first data relating to a first sub-operation of the actual operation, and second operational data of an operating device of a second bridge, the second data relating to a second sub-operation of the actual operation.

[0069] Thus, the method advantageously makes it possible to identify a deviation in the operation of an operating device by taking into consideration all of the operational data of the sub-operations of the same operation carried out using several mobile bridges.

[0070] Monitoring operational data from the same operation carried out from several mobile bridges also makes it possible to improve the traceability of operations to, for example, the same tank or the same anode.

[0071] (Predictive maintenance of a fleet of mobile bridges)

[0072] According to one embodiment of the invention, the operational data acquired during the acquisition step from the on-board computer comprises the acquisition of first operational data of a first operating device of a first bridge which relate to the actual state of the first operating device, and second operational data of a second operating device of a second bridge which relate to the actual state of the second operating device.

[0073] The first operating device and the second operating device advantageously belong to the same category of operating device. For example, the first and second operating devices may be a cryolite crust pricking device.

[0074] Monitoring operational data associated with the actual states of the same operating devices on several movable bridges allows the preventive identification of a movable bridge that may require maintenance in comparison with other movable bridges in the bridge fleet.

[0075] According to one embodiment of the invention, said at least one reference data is adjusted as a function of said operational data.

[0076] According to one embodiment of the invention, said at least one reference data corresponds to an average of said operational data.

[0077] According to an alternative embodiment of the invention, at least one reference datum corresponds to a sliding value range representative of an authorized deviation tolerance of said operating device.

[0078] (Subject 2 of the invention)

[0079] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a computer program product comprising software instructions, which, when executed by a computer, implement the method according to the invention.

[0080] A computer program means any type of computer program or calculation software, whether implemented on a desktop computer or a computer embedded in an electrical cabinet, a PLC, an electronic calculator or any other control and command system of an industrial installation. Memory means all types of "machine-readable storage medium / media". "Machine-readable storage medium / media" or "computer-readable storage medium / media" means, but is not limited to, portable or non-portable storage devices, optical storage devices and various other media capable of storing, containing or supporting instructions and / or data, and any medium that participates in the provision of instructions to a processor for their execution.A machine-readable medium may include a non-transitory medium in which data may be stored and which does not include carrier waves and / or transient electronic signals propagating wirelessly or over wired connections. Non-volatile media include, for example, optical disks, magnetic disks, or read-only memories. Volatile media include dynamic memory, including cache memory. Transmission media include coaxial cables, copper wires, and optical fibers.Common forms of computer-readable media include, for example, but are not limited to, a floppy disk, a floppy disk, a hard disk, a magnetic tape, any other magnetic media, a CD-ROM, a DVD, any other optical media, punched cards, other physical media with patterns of holes, RAM, PROM and EPROM, FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer can read. Various forms of computer-readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution.

[0081] A computer program product may include machine-executable code and / or instructions that may represent a procedure, function, subroutine, program, routine, subprogram, module, software, class, or any combination of instructions, data structures, or program instructions. A code segment may be coupled to another code segment or hardware circuit by transmitting and / or receiving information, data, arguments, parameters, or memory contents. Information, arguments, parameters, data, etc., may be transmitted, passed, or passed through any suitable means, including memory sharing, message passing, token passing, network transmission, etc.

[0082] (Subject 3 of the invention)

[0083] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a mobile bridge for operating an electrolysis cell of an aluminum production installation or for operating an anode baking furnace,

[0084] said mobile bridge being configured to implement the monitoring method according to the invention,

[0085] said mobile bridge comprising:

[0086] - at least one operating device,

[0087] - at least one means of measuring at least one operational data relating to the at least one operating device,

[0088] said mobile bridge comprising an on-board computer configured to receive said operational data relating to the at least one operating device and transmit them to a remote computer in order to identify a deviation in the operation of said operating device.

[0089] According to one embodiment of the invention, in the case of a mobile bridge for operating cells of an installation for producing aluminum by electrolysis, the mobile bridge may comprise at least one operating device among which:

[0090] - an electrolysis crust pricking device;

[0091] - a device for cleaning crust residues in an electrolysis cell of the installation;

[0092] - an anodic powder supply device;

[0093] - an aluminum extraction device.

[0094] (Subject 4 of the invention)

[0095] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a system for monitoring a fleet of movable bridges, the system comprising the fleet of movable bridges comprising at least one movable bridge according to the invention.

[0096] (Description of the drawings)

[0097] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear on reading the following non-limiting description and the appended figures which schematically illustrate several embodiments of the invention applied to an installation for producing aluminum by electrolysis, without being limited thereto.

[0098] It represents a schematic view of an electrolytic aluminum production facility comprising electrolysis cells and a fleet of mobile bridges to operate the electrolysis cells.

[0099] It represents a schematic front view of a cell.

[0100] It represents a schematic top view of the cell of the.

[0101] The represents a schematic view of a movable bridge described in the equipped with an operating device and an on-board computer, and operating on a cell.

[0102] It represents operations that can be associated with an electrolysis installation.

[0103] The diagram represents a flowchart of an embodiment of the monitoring method of the invention of an operating device equipping a mobile bridge of the fleet.

[0104] It represents a schematic view of a cooking oven.

[0105] Represents operations that can be associated with an anode baking furnace.

[0106] (State of the art)

[0107] Aluminum is traditionally produced in a 100% igneous electrolysis installation, using the Hall-Héroult process.

[0108] In Laon, an electrolysis installation 100 has been shown. Such an installation 100 traditionally comprises, in a hall, several electrolysis cells 10 connected in series and traversed by an electrolysis current. The electrolysis cells 10 are arranged in rows next to each other and are intended to be electrically connected in series. The rows are separated from each other by an operating aisle allowing the circulation of mobile bridges 1 and personnel of the installation 100.

[0109] In Figures 2A and 2B, an electrolysis cell 10 is shown. An electrolysis cell 10 conventionally comprises a structure comprising a steel tank 10A having an internal lining of refractory materials, and containing a cathode 10B of carbonaceous material, generally formed by the bottom wall of the tank 10A and an electrolytic bath 10C in which alumina is dissolved to form liquid aluminum 10F. The electrolysis reaction produces above the electrolytic bath 10C a crust 10E of cryolite. The cell 10 also comprises several anodes 11. Each anode 11 is designed to be immersed in this electrolytic bath 10C while being carried by an anode rod 11A sealed in the anode 11 and mounted on an anode support (not shown). The anodes 11 are generally made from carbon blocks cooked prior to their introduction into the electrolysis cell 10.Furthermore, electrical conductors allow the electrolysis current to be conveyed between the cells 10 of the installation 100.

[0110] The tank 10A has openings through which the anodes 11 are introduced. To limit heat losses and prevent the diffusion of harmful gases generated during the electrolysis reaction outside the electrolysis cell 10, it is planned to close the openings of the tank 10A with a set of removable covers 10D so as to form a closed enclosure.

[0111] However, the anodes 11 are consumed during the electrolysis reaction and must therefore be replaced by new anodes 11. When changing an anode, some of the covers 10D are therefore removed to open an access window to the inside of the tank 10A.

[0112] When an anode 11 participating in the electrolysis reaction is consumed, a cryolite crust 10E forms above the electrolytic bath 10C which surrounds the anode 11 immersed in the bath 10C so that the anode 11 bonds to the crust 10E.

[0113] The access window allows the performance of different actions to extract a consumed anode 11 using different operating devices 20-24 shown in.

[0114] It represents different operations that can be carried out by a mobile bridge 1 of an electrolysis installation 100.

[0115] During an anode change operation E1, a worn anode 11 must be extracted from the electrolysis cell 10 through this access window. To carry out this anode change operation E1, several sub-operations may be carried out which may include, among other things, a sub-operation E10 of pricking the cryolite crust 10E, using a device 20 for pricking the cryolite crust 10E, during which the cryolite crust 10E is pierced, in a regular manner, on at least one part surrounding the anode 11 to be extracted. It is also possible to carry out, using an anode gripper 21, a sub-operation E11 of gripping the consumed anode 11 to transport the anode 11 and place it on a scrap support, outside the cell 10, where it is temporarily stored before being taken to a reclamation area.Each anode 11 being carried by an anode support connected to an anode rod 11A, it will be understood that the anode gripper 21 manipulates the anode 11 via the anode rod 11A. Then, a cleaning sub-operation E12 can be carried out, using a device 22 for cleaning 10Es crust residues, also called a 10Es crust shovel, in the extraction region of the cryolite bath 10C where the anode 11 was extracted. This cleaning sub-operation E12 aims to remove the 10Es crust residues placed in this region following the extraction of the anode. These residues are removed and deposited in a 10Es crust collection device or 10Es crust bin. Then, using the same anode gripper 21 or a second anode gripper 21, a sub-operation E13 of gripping a new anode 11 is carried out to transport the anode 11 from a storage medium to the extraction region of the consumed anode 11.Here again, the anode gripper 21 manipulates the new anode 11 by means of its anode rod 11A. Following this sub-operation E13 of gripping a new anode 11, a sub-operation E14 of positioning the new anode can be carried out, during which the lower surface, called the anode plane 11B, of the new anode 11 is positioned at the position of the anode plane 11B of the consumed anode 11. This positioning sub-operation E14 is carried out by adjusting the position of the anode rod 11A carrying the new anode 11 relative to the structure of the cell 10. It will be understood that the position of the anode plane 11B of the consumed anode 11 is measured after its extraction from the cell 10.Following this sub-operation E14 of positioning the new anode, a sub-operation E15 of sealing the new anode 11 can be carried out in which the new anode 11 is sealed by its anode rod 11A to the structure of the cell 10. Following this sealing sub-operation E15, a sub-operation E16 of covering the new anode can be carried out, during which, using a device 23 for supplying anode powder, the new anode 11 is covered with an anode covering powder from the surface of the anode 11 connected to its anode rod 11A. The covering of the new anode 11 with an anode powder makes it possible to ensure conduction of the electrolysis reaction from the anode plane 11B not covered with this powder and to prevent the electrolysis reaction from occurring from another surface of the new anode. Finally, the removable 10D covers initially removed are replaced to close the access window.

[0116] Independently of operation E1 of changing the anode, to ensure the continuity of the electrolysis reaction in a 10A tank, other operations are regularly carried out in time, in a non-limiting manner, including:

[0117] - an operation E2 of adjusting the position of an anode 11 in an electrolysis cell 10 of the installation 100, during which the position of the anode plane 11B 11 directed towards the electrolyte bath 10C is adjusted relative to the level of the bath 10C;

[0118] - an operation E3 of covering an anode 11 with a covering powder in an electrolysis cell 10 of the installation 100, during which the surface of the anode 11 carrying the sealed anode rod 11A is covered with a covering powder;

[0119] - an operation E4 of tapping a crust 10E of alumina residues formed in an electrolysis cell 10 of the installation 100 for the supply of alumina, during which the crust 10E of alumina residues is pierced for the supply of alumina feeding the electrolysis reaction;

[0120] - an operation E5 of withdrawing the liquid aluminum 10F produced in an electrolysis cell 10 of the installation 100, during which the aluminum produced in the cell 10 is withdrawn.

[0121] During the operation E2 of adjusting the position of an anode, the positioning of the anode rod 11A of the corresponding anode 11 is adjusted relative to the structure of the cell 10, so that the anode plane 11B of the anode 11 is adjusted relative to the level of the electrolytic bath 10C in the tank 10A.

[0122] The operation E3 of covering an anode 11 with an anode covering powder can be carried out independently of the operation E1 of changing the anode, when during the consumption cycle of an anode 11 it is necessary to cover it again after the cryolite crust 10E has been pierced in order to form an opening allowing the supply of alumina into the electrolytic bath 10C. This operation is carried out regularly in order to maintain the electrolysis reaction produced in the cell 10 and maintain the electrolytic bath 10C at a desired level. This operation is carried out using at least one tapping device 40 associated with the cell 10 and an alumina supply device 41 which can be associated with the tapping device 20.

[0123] During operation E5 of withdrawing liquid aluminum 10F, the liquid aluminum 10F, resulting from the electrolysis reaction, is withdrawn from the bottom of the cell 10 while avoiding the withdrawal of the electrolytic bath 10C. This operation is carried out using an aluminum withdrawal device 24 comprising a conduit for withdrawing anodic aluminum connected to an aluminum storage pocket, as well as an aluminum suction device, such as a venturi-type device.

[0124] With the exception of operation E4 of tapping for the supply of alumina, such operations are carried out by means of a mobile bridge 1 provided for this purpose.

[0125] It will also be possible to provide for a handling operation of the removable covers 10D. Such an operation may be provided to be carried out from the mobile bridge 1. For this purpose, the mobile bridge 1 may be equipped with an operating device 20-24, such as a handling arm provided for removing at least one removable cover from the cell 10 in order to open or close an access window to the cell 10.

[0126] An electrolysis installation 100 comprises a fleet of mobile bridges 1 which may comprise mobile bridges 1 dedicated to carrying out one or more operations described previously.

[0127] Thus, for carrying out one or more of these operations, as shown in the figure, a mobile bridge 1 can be equipped with one or more operating devices 20-24 which can include, in a non-limiting manner:

[0128] - a 20-electrolysis crust 10E tapping device;

[0129] - an anode gripping device 21;

[0130] - a device 22 for cleaning crust residues 10Es;

[0131] - a device 23 for supplying anodic powder;

[0132] - an aluminum extraction device 24.

[0133] It will be understood that such devices 20-24 may comprise members, including, but not limited to: a motor member, a compression member, a pneumatic member, a hydraulic member or a lifting member, enabling the operation of the associated device.

[0134] Today, the monitoring of these different operations carried out on the cells 10 of an installation 100 can be traced by means of operation monitoring notebooks in which, for example, an operator can enter information on an operation that he has just carried out. However, such a monitoring method does not make it possible to ensure and raise the operational excellence of the teams when the mobile bridges 1 are operated by operators, for example.

[0135] Furthermore, the maintenance of these movable bridges 1 remains difficult to ensure since it requires tracing the maintenance operations on each movable bridge 1 individually using maintenance logs.

[0136] (Description of inventions)

[0137] In order to remedy all of the problems described, the invention proposes to equip at least one mobile bridge 1 of the fleet of mobile bridges 1 (shown in the), with an on-board computer 2 and at least one means 4 for measuring at least one operational data 300 relating to at least one operating device 20-24.

[0138] A measuring means 4 may be, for example, a temperature sensor, a gyroscopic sensor, an altitude sensor, a speed sensor, a voltage and / or current measurement, a pressure gauge, a load cell 10, an actuator, a scale.

[0139] The on-board computer 2 is configured to receive, during an acquisition step 1001, said at least one operational data item 300 relating to the at least one operating device 20-24 and to transmit it to a remote computer 3 during a transmission step 1002.

[0140] To ensure the transmission of said at least one operational data 300 to the remote computer 3, an on-board computer 2 can be equipped with a wireless transmitter configured to communicate with the remote computer 3.

[0141] A wireless transmission relay 30 may be provided in the installation 100 so as to be able to collect the transmissions from the transmitter of the on-board computer 2 and transmit them to the remote computer 3.

[0142] The remote computer 3 is configured to receive the operational data 300 during an acquisition step 1003.

[0143] In the illustrated embodiment, the remote computer 3 is a remote server. Advantageously, the server is remote from the installation 100.

[0144] Thus, the on-board computer 2 and the remote computer 3 advantageously form a network of computers 2, 3 making it possible to collect and analyze the at least one operational data 300 of the associated operating device 20-24, so that it can be processed and analyzed from the remote computer 3 with a view to identifying a deviation in the operation of said operating device 20-24.

[0145] The mobile bridge fleet 1 and the remote computer 3 advantageously form a monitoring system for the mobile bridge fleet 1.

[0146] For example, in the case of monitoring a mobile bridge 1 intended for an anode change operation E1, the dedicated mobile bridge 1 is at least equipped with an operating device 20 for tapping the electrolysis crust 10E and an operating device 22 for cleaning the crust residues 10Es.

[0147] Each operating device 20-24 comprises several organs such as a motor organ, a compression organ, a pneumatic organ or a lifting organ.

[0148] Each operating device 20-24 comprises one or more measuring means 4 associated with the on-board computer 2. More particularly, one or more measuring means 4 may be provided for each component of the device.

[0149] The use of one or more measuring means 4 advantageously makes it possible to collect all of the measurements representative of the state of the operating device 20-24.

[0150] Each measuring means 4 collects at least one operational data 300 associated with the corresponding operating device 20-24.

[0151] All of the measurements of the operating device 20-24 are then acquired by the on-board computer 2 during the acquisition step 1001. The acquisition can be carried out during a continuous acquisition period.

[0152] The on-board computer 2 can associate for each operational data 300, for example, one or more of the following information: a timestamp of the acquisition date, an identification of the associated organ, an identification of the operating device 20-24 comprising the associated organ, an identification of the mobile bridge 1 comprising the operating device 20-24 associated with the organ, an identification of the cell 10 on which the bridge 1 operates, an identification of the anode 11 on which the operating device 20-24 operates, an identification of the operator and / or the team associated with the operational data 300.

[0153] The operational data 300 is then transmitted to the remote computer 3.

[0154] In the event of a data transmission failure, the on-board computer 2 can temporarily store, in a memory device, the untransmitted operational data 300.

[0155] The remote computer 3 acquires the operational data 300 and records them in a database 60 which can be remote or managed from the remote server 3.

[0156] The method may comprise a data filtering step 1003A, during which inconsistent operational data 300 are removed from the acquired data. This may involve, for example, removing noise in the measurement of an electric current, or may be linked to an unfinished operation. The data filtering step 1003A is advantageously carried out from the remote computer before a subsequent comparison step 1004.

[0157] (Case of an anode change operation)

[0158] From the remote computer 3, a step 1000 is previously carried out for recording, from the remote computer 3, reference data 200 representative of a reference operation E0 of anode change 11 carried out by the operating device 20-24 of the bridge concerned, or by the operating device 20-24 of another mobile bridge 1 constituting the fleet, or even associated with a trusted data item. Associated with the reference operation may be reference data 200 which may include data associated with the sub-operations of the reference operation E0 of anode change.

[0159] From the remote computer 3, from the operational data 300, the operation E1-E5 or the sub-operation(s) E11-E16 with which they are associated is determined. For example, the identification of an operating device 20 for tapping the electrolysis crust 10E comprising the member from which the operational data 300 are acquired, makes it possible to associate the acquired operational data 300 with an operation E10 for tapping the electrolysis crust 10E. The operational data 300 collected from the same mobile bridge 1 can make it possible to determine whether it is a tapping operation that can be associated, or not, with an actual operation E1 for changing the anode, as will be discussed below.

[0160] Indeed, as has been seen, an operation E1 of changing anode 11 may include a sub-operation E10 of pricking the cryolite crust 10E and a sub-operation E11 of gripping the anode.

[0161] In the case of the stitching operation E10, the operational data 300 are acquired by a plurality of measuring means 4 equipping the constituent members of the stitching device 20 equipping the corresponding bridge. Thus, the operational data 300 can be associated, in a non-limiting manner: with the actuation of the stitching device 20, with the duration of the actuation of the stitching device 20, with the number of stitching points made, with the location of the stitching points relative to each other.

[0162] Furthermore, the operational data 300 may, for example, be associated with the measurement of a hydraulic pressure of an anode gripping device 21. In the same way, the method identifies the operational data 300 associated with the measurement of the hydraulic pressure of the anode gripping device 21. For example, the identification of the anode gripping operating device 20-24 comprising the member to which the operational data 300 are acquired, such as the pneumatic member, makes it possible to associate the acquired operational data 300 with an anode gripping operation E11.

[0163] Thus, in this case, the method can identify an operation E10 of pricking the cryolite crust 10E, and an operation E11 of gripping the anode 11 associated with the acquisition of the operational data 300. The method can then identify that these may be sub-operations E10, E11 of an operation E1 of changing the anode.

[0164] According to other information contained in the acquired operational data 300, the method will be able to identify the belonging of these sub-operations E10, E11 to another operation, for example, to an anode control operation.

[0165] From the acquired operational data 300 and the identification of an operation E1 or sub-operation E10, E11 associated with them, it is possible to generate, during a generation step 1004, comparison data 400 representative of the comparison of the operational data 300 identified as being associated with an operation E1 of changing anode 11 with respect to the reference data 200 representative of the reference operation E0 of changing anode.

[0166] From this comparison data 400, the method can present the comparison data 400 in order to identify an operating deviation or at least a portion of an operating deviation of the operating device 20-24 associated with the operation.

[0167] In the case of the anode change operation E1, the generation of comparison data 400, from the remote computer 3, then makes it possible to verify the conformity of the sub-operations E10, E11 of pricking the cryolite crust 10E and of gripping the anode 11 in comparison with the reference operation E0 of anode change. For example, the operational data 300 may include the time stamp of the operational data 300, the number of pricking points made or the location of the pricking points relative to each other may be compared to reference data 200 to identify a deviation in the operation of the operating device 20-24.

[0168] This improves the traceability of the monitoring of operations carried out by a mobile bridge 1, their monitoring over time and their archiving. Furthermore, their use makes it possible to improve the operational practices of operators. The process makes it possible to present, among the sub-operations E11-E16 of the anode change operation E1, the sub-operation at the origin of the operating deviation or part of the operating deviation. Operators can then easily trace the origin of a malfunction on an operating device 20-24.

[0169] Furthermore, the operational data 300 associated with the sub-operation E10 of pricking the cryolite crust 10E form a first index of carrying out the operation E1 of changing the anode 11 and the operational data 300 associated with the sub-operation E11 of gripping the anode 11 form a second index of carrying out the operation E1 of changing the anode 11 different from the first index of carrying out.

[0170] Thus, the operational data 300 may include data associated with the device 20 for piercing the cryolite crust 10E and data associated with the anode gripping device 21.

[0171] The combination of data relating, on the one hand, to the tapping device 20, such as the actuation of the tapping device 20, the duration of actuation of the tapping device 20, the number of tapping points made, the location of the tapping points relative to each other and, on the other hand, to the anode gripping device 21, such as the measurement of the hydraulic pressure of the anode gripping device 21, makes it possible to determine a level of duration of the electrolysis crust 10E. For example, the non-actuation of the tapping device 20 is representative of a low hardness of the electrolysis crust 10E. Conversely, its actuation, its duration of actuation and the proximity of the tapping points are representative of a high hardness of the electrolysis crust 10E. A low hardness of the 10E electrolysis crust compared to a predetermined hardness may be representative of an indication of non-conformity of the operation.

[0172] The identification of a deviation in the operation of an operating device 20-24 having participated in the operation E1 of changing the anode 11 allows, in addition to the identification of the elements of the installation 100 associated with this non-compliant operation (component, operating device 20-24, mobile bridge 1, tank 10A), the determination of the causes which may be at the origin of the non-compliance index, here of a hardness of the electrolysis crust 10E lower than a predetermined hardness.

[0173] For example, other operational data 300 collected by the remote computer 3 during other previous operations E1-E5 or sub-operations E11-E16 can be correlated with the non-conformity index of the operation in order to identify causes of non-conformity of the actual operation such as, for example, the quantity of anode powder deposited on the anode 11 associated with the anode change operation E1, the duration of formation of the crust 10E left between the end of a positioning sub-operation E14 having allowed the positioning of the anode 11 and the start of the sub-operation E16 of covering the anode 11 with an anode powder, or the duration of storage of the anode powder in a hopper of the associated mobile bridge 1.

[0174] Depending on these other operational data 300, the method can advantageously identify that the low hardness of the crust 10E may be due, for example, to an insufficient quantity of anodic powder previously deposited or too long a storage time of the anodic powder.

[0175] The identification of low hardness of the 10E cryolite crust may trigger a step of associating 1005 the non-conformity index of the actual operation with at least one cause of non-conformity.

[0176] It is then possible to correct the parameters associated with the operations or sub-operations in order to improve the quality and performance of an electrolysis cell 10, or at least to improve operational practice.

[0177] Further actions may be taken, for example, an inspection of the corresponding electrolysis cell 10 or an operational training session.

[0178] It is also possible to identify an organ of the corresponding operating device 20-24, the operating device 20-24 or the mobile bridge 1, for which several operating deviations have been repeatedly detected, and which may be related to one or more operating devices 20-24.

[0179] When the method is applied for monitoring the fleet of movable bridges 1, the operational data 300 associated with the operating device 20-24 of each bridge 1 are acquired by the remote computer 3.

[0180] For example, in the context of an anode change operation E1, the association of the operational data 300 of each bridge 1 of the fleet makes it possible, for example, to identify an operating deviation in relation to: on the one hand, a sub-operation E10 of tapping carried out by a first mobile bridge 1 equipped with the tapping device 20 provided for this sub-operation, and on the other hand, a sub-operation E16 of covering with anode powder which can be carried out by a second mobile bridge 1 equipped with the device 23 for supplying anode powder provided for this sub-operation.

[0181] Thus, the method advantageously makes it possible to identify a deviation in the operation of an operating device 20-24 by taking into consideration all of the operational data 300 of the sub-operations, of the same operation, carried out using several mobile bridges 1.

[0182] (Case of a drawing operation)

[0183] In the case of an E5 aluminum withdrawal operation, the reference data 200 may include data associated with the sub-operations of the E0 reference withdrawal operation.

[0184] An aluminum withdrawal operation E5 may include, among others, the following sub-operations: a sub-operation E51 of inserting a withdrawal conduit into the electrolytic bath 10C to reach the liquid aluminum 10F at the bottom of the electrolysis cell 10, and a sub-operation E52 of suction to suck the liquid aluminum 10F from the conduit and store it in a storage bag.

[0185] In the same way as for the anode change operation E1, from the remote computer 3, from the operational data 300, it can be determined the operation or sub-operation with which they are associated.

[0186] In the case of a sub-operation E51 of insertion of a withdrawal conduit, the operational data 300 are acquired by a plurality of measuring means 4 equipping the constituent members of the withdrawal device 24 equipping the corresponding bridge 1. Thus, the operational data 300 can be associated, in a non-limiting manner: with the position of the end of the withdrawal conduit relative to the bottom wall of the cell 10 in which the conduit is inserted, with the pressure measured in the storage pocket.

[0187] Thus, in this case, the method can identify a withdrawal operation E5. The method can then identify the data relating to a sub-operation E51 of insertion of withdrawal conduit and a sub-operation E52 of suction of aluminum.

[0188] The method can thus generate comparison data 400 representative of the comparison of the operational data 300 identified as being associated with a withdrawal operation E5 with respect to the reference data 200 representative of the reference withdrawal operation E0.

[0189] In the case of the withdrawal operation E5, the generation of comparison data 400, from the remote computer 3, then makes it possible to verify the conformity of the sub-operations E51, E52 of insertion of the withdrawal conduit and suction of aluminum in comparison with the reference operation E0 of withdrawal. For example, the operational data 300 may comprise the time stamp of the operational data 300, the tracking of the trajectory of the withdrawal conduit relative to the bottom wall of the cell 10, the measurement of the pressure in the storage pocket in relation to the position of the end of the conduit in the cell 10.

[0190] Furthermore, the operational data 300 associated with the sub-operation E51 of inserting the withdrawal conduit form a first index of carrying out the withdrawal operation E5 and the operational data 300 associated with the sub-operation E52 of suctioning aluminum form a second index of carrying out the withdrawal operation E5 different from the first index of carrying out.

[0191] The combination of data relating, on the one hand, to the withdrawal conduit, such as contact of the end of the withdrawal conduit with the bottom wall of the cell 10, the distance of rise of the conduit after its contact with the bottom wall and, on the other hand, to the storage pocket, such as the measurement of a depression or an atmospheric pressure in the storage pocket in relation to the position of the end of the conduit in the cell 10, makes it possible to determine a level of quality of the withdrawal, and makes it possible to identify the suction of an unwanted quantity of electrolytic bath 10C. For example, the identification of a depression in the storage pocket, while the position of the end of the withdrawal conduit is located in the electrolytic bath 10C or at an insufficient level, makes it possible to identify the suction of impurities in the extracted aluminum and corresponding to a quantity of the electrolytic bath 10C, essentially consisting of cryolite.The suction time advantageously allows quantification of the quantity of 10C electrolytic bath taken. Conversely, the identification of an atmospheric pressure in the storage pocket, while the position of the end of the withdrawal pipe is located in the 10C electrolytic bath, makes it possible to ensure that impurities are not extracted with the aluminum. Thus, the first realization index and the second realization index make it possible to identify a non-conformity index corresponding here to the quality level of the extracted aluminum with regard to the identified impurities extracted at the same time.

[0192] The identification of a deviation in the operation of an operating device 20-24 having participated in the E5 drawing operation and the identification of a non-conformity index allows, in addition to the identification of the elements of the installation 100 associated with this non-conforming operation (organ, operating device 20-24, mobile bridge 1, tank 10A), the determination of the causes which could be at the origin of the non-conformity index, here the level of quality of the extracted aluminium.

[0193] Other operational data 300 collected by the remote computer 3 during other previous operations or sub-operations can be correlated with the non-conformity index of the operation in order to identify causes of non-conformity of the actual operation E1, for example, in relation to operating modes such as a suction speed of the withdrawal device 24 being too high, an incorrect position of the end of the conduit relative to the bottom wall of the cell 10 in which it operates, or, in relation to a malfunction such as a blockage of the withdrawal conduit, to a duration of the operation being too long.

[0194] For example, the repeated identification of a duration of the E5 drawing-off operation being too long makes it possible to identify as the cause at the origin of the non-conformity of the operation as possibly being due to the obstruction of the drawing-off conduit or a sealing defect of its cover. For a mobile bridge 1, in addition, the identification of a deviation in the operation of one of the members of an operating device 20-24 of the mobile bridge 1 carrying out the operation makes it possible to identify a failure, for example, of the compressed air circuit or of the compressor.

[0195] (Case of a charging operation for an anode baking furnace)

[0196] Several mobile bridges 1 can be dedicated to an anode baking furnace 500 11, making it possible to carry out, in a non-limiting manner, the following operations, including:

[0197] - an operation E6 of unloading anodes 11;

[0198] - an operation E7 of loading anodes 11;

[0199] - an E8 operation for handling ramps from furnace 500;

[0200] - an E9 maintenance operation: brushing the walls of oven 500, straightening the walls of oven 500.

[0201] An anode baking furnace 500 11 is composed of several fire sections 51. Each section consists of cells 51A formed by partitions between which the anodes 11 are stacked for baking. In these cells 51A the combustion gases circulate. An anode baking furnace 500 11 is supplied by a baking fire. A baking fire can be implemented by a group of anode baking fires 11 comprising, among other things, baking ramps.

[0202] An operation E6 of unloading or loading anodes 11 is carried out using a mobile bridge 1 equipped with an operating device 25 provided for this purpose, such as an operating device 21 for gripping anode 11.

[0203] Such an anode gripping operating device 11 comprises a gripping clamp controlled by members of the operating device such as a motor member or a pneumatic member.

[0204] For example, in the case of an operation E6, E7 of unloading or loading, the operational data 300 are acquired by a plurality of measuring means 4 equipping the constituent members of the anode gripping device 21 11 equipping the corresponding bridge 1. Thus, the operational data 300 can be associated, in a non-limiting manner: with the position of the gripping clamp relative to the walls of the cell 51A in which it operates, with the pressure exerted by the clamp when gripping the anode 11 being handled.

[0205] Thus, in this case, the method can identify an anode gripping operation E6.

[0206] The method can thus generate comparison data 400 representative of the comparison of the operational data 300 identified as being associated with, for example, a discharge operation E6 with respect to the reference data 200 representative of a reference discharge operation E0.

[0207] For example, in the case of the unloading operation, the generation of comparison data 400, from the remote computer 3, then makes it possible to verify the conformity of the unloading operation E6 in comparison with the reference unloading operations E0. For example, the operational data 300 may comprise the time stamp of the operational data 300, the tracking of the trajectory of the gripping clamp relative to the cells 51A of the baking oven 500, the measurement of the pressure exerted by the clamp on the anode 11 handled,

[0208] According to one example, the operational data 300 associated with the position of the gripping clamp form a first index of carrying out the charging operation E6 and the operational data 300 associated with the pressure exerted by the clamp on the anode 11 form a second index of carrying out the charging operation E6 different from the first index of carrying out.

[0209] The repeated identification of a non-conformity of a charging operation E6 on a cell 51A of the furnace 500 in particular, in comparison with the other cells 51A, for example of the same row, makes it possible to alert on a cause which may be linked to a defect in the straightening of at least one wall constituting the cell in which the operation was carried out. According to another example, the identification of a pressure defect during the performance of the same charging operation E6, carried out by the same mobile bridge 1 on different cells of the furnace 500, makes it possible to alert on a malfunction of the operating device 20-24 for gripping anodes 11.

[0210] (Maintenance)

[0211] From the operational data 300, it is also possible to identify maintenance actions.

[0212] Indeed, the reference data 200 may be representative of a reference state of the associated operating device 20-24 and the operational data 300 may be representative of the actual state of the operating device 20-24.

[0213] Comparison data 400 resulting from the comparison of the reference data 200 with the operational data 300 makes it possible to highlight a deviation in the operation of the operating device 20-25 which may be linked to the monitoring of the actual state of the operating device 20-25.

[0214] For example, in the case of an electrolysis installation 100, the repeated detection of a deviation in the operation of a measurement of the hydraulic pressure of the anode gripping device 21 of the same mobile bridge 1 could highlight a fault in the hydraulic member of the gripping device 21.

[0215] Alternatively, measuring the hydraulic pressure of the anode 11 gripping devices 21 of each mobile bridge 1 of the fleet and comparing them with each other makes it possible to highlight a fault in the hydraulic member of the gripping device 21 of a mobile bridge 1 of the fleet.

[0216] Alternatively, the at least one reference data 200 associated with the actual state of the hydraulic member of the device 21 for gripping a bridge 1 can be adjusted as a function of said operational data 300 of the hydraulic member of the devices 21 for gripping each mobile bridge 1 of the fleet.

[0217] The reference data 200 may also correspond to an average of said operational data 300.

[0218] It may also be provided that the reference data 200 corresponds to a sliding value range representative of an authorized deviation tolerance of said operating device 20-24. For example, the values ​​limiting such a sliding value range may be updated over time as a function of said operational data 300 of the hydraulic member of the gripping devices 21 of each mobile bridge 1 of the fleet.

[0219] Although the present description refers to specific exemplary embodiments, modifications may be made to these examples without departing from the general scope of the invention as defined by the claims, for example, the invention may be applied to the various operations that can be performed by a movable bridge. Furthermore, individual features of the various embodiments illustrated or mentioned may be combined in additional embodiments. Therefore, the description and the drawings should be considered in an illustrative rather than restrictive sense.

Claims

Method implemented by a computer network (2, 3) for monitoring at least one mobile bridge (1) for operating cells (10) of an installation (100) for producing aluminum by electrolysis or for operating a furnace (500) for baking anodes (11), the computer network (2, 3) comprising at least one on-board computer (2) and a remote computer (3), the mobile bridge (1) being equipped with at least one operating device (21-24) and comprises the at least one on-board computer (2), the method comprising the following steps: - a step (1000) of recording, from the remote computer (3), at least one reference data item (200) representative of a reference operation (E0) of the operating device (21-24) or of a reference state of said at least one operating device (21-24);- a step (1001) of acquiring, during an acquisition period, from the on-board computer (2), operational data (300) representative of the performance of a real operation (E1-E9) of the operating device (21-24) and / or of a real state of said at least one operating device (21-24), said real operation (E1-E9) being associated with said reference operation (E0) or said real state being associated with said reference state;- a step (1002) of transmitting, from the on-board computer (2), operational data (300) to the remote computer (3);- a step (1003) of acquiring, from said remote computer (3), said operational data (300) transmitted by the on-board computer (2);- a step (1004) of generating, from said remote computer (3), at least one comparison data item (400) representative of the comparison of the data operational (300) with respect to the at least one reference data (200);- a step of presenting (1006) said at least one comparison data (400) with a view to identifying a deviation in the operation of said operating device (21-24).; Method according to the preceding claim, in which the actual operation (E1-E9) corresponds to a succession of sub-operations (E10-E16; E51-E52), the method comprising a step of identifying the sub-operation (E10-E16; E51-E52), at the origin of the operating deviation or of a part of the operating deviation. Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the operational data (300) comprise a first index of realization of the actual operation (E1-E9), the first index of realization making it possible to determine an index of non-conformity of the actual operation. Method according to the preceding claim, in which the operational data (300) comprise a second index of realization of the actual operation (E1-E9) different from the first index of realization, the first index of realization and the second index of realization making it possible to determine the index of non-conformity of the actual operation (E1-E9). Method according to one of claims 3 or 4, in which the method comprises a step of associating (1005) the non-conformity index of the actual operation (E1-E9) with at least one cause of non-conformity, said cause being identified from operational data (300) acquired from the at least one operating device (21-24) or from an operating device (21-24) distinct from the at least one operating device (21-24) equipping the mobile bridge (1) or from an operating device (21-24) of a distinct mobile bridge (1). Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the association of said real operation (E1-E5) with said reference operation (E0) comprises the following steps carried out from the remote computer (3): - a step of identification (1005A) of the operating device (21-24); - a step of association (1005B) of the operating device (21-24) with the real operation (E1-E9); - a step of association (1005C) of the operational data (300) representative of the real operation (E1-E9) of the operating device (21-24) with the at least one reference data (200) representative of the reference operation (E0) of the operating device (21-24). Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which the operational data (300) comprises information identifying the actual operation (E1-E9) including: the identification of the operation, the identification of the movable bridge (1), the date of execution of the actual operation (E1-E9) and / or the duration of execution of the actual operation (E1-E9). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the case of a mobile bridge (1) for operating cells (10) of an installation (100) for producing aluminum by electrolysis, the operational data (300) comprise the identification of the cell (10) in which the at least one bridge (1) operates. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein, in the case of a mobile bridge (1) for operating cells (10) of an installation (100) for producing aluminum by electrolysis, said actual operation (E1-E9) and said reference operation (E0) correspond to an operation chosen from: - an operation (E1) of changing an anode (11) in an electrolysis cell (10) of the installation (100); - an operation (E2) of adjusting the position of an anode (11) in an electrolysis cell of the installation (100); - an operation (E3) of covering an anode (11) in an electrolysis cell (10) of the installation (100) with a coating powder; - an operation (E4) of pitting a crust of alumina residues formed in an electrolysis cell (10) of the installation (100) ;- an operation (E5) of withdrawing the liquid aluminum (10F) produced in an electrolysis cell (10) of the installation (100). Method according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, in the case of a mobile bridge (1) for operating a furnace (500) for baking anodes (11), the operational data (300) comprise the identification of a section of the baking furnace (500) in which the at least one bridge (1) operates. Method according to one of claims 1 to 7 and 10, in which, in the case of a mobile bridge (1) for operating a furnace (500) for baking anodes (11), said actual operation (E6-E9) and said reference operation (E0) correspond to an operation chosen from: - an operation (E6) of unloading; - an operation (E7) of loading; - an operation (E8) of handling ramps of the furnace (500); - a maintenance operation (E9): brushing the walls of the furnace (500), straightening the walls of the furnace (500). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the method is applied for monitoring a fleet of movable bridges (1) comprising at least one movable bridge (1) according to one of the preceding claims, the computer network (2, 3) comprising the on-board computers (2) of the movable bridges (1) of said fleet and the remote computer (3), for each bridge the operational data (300) associated with the operating device (21-24) of the corresponding bridge are acquired by the remote computer (3), the identification of the operating deviation of said operating device (21-24) of the corresponding bridge (1) being determined from all the operational data (300) of the movable bridges of said fleet. Method according to the preceding claim in which the operational data (300) acquired during the acquisition step from the on-board computer (2) comprise the acquisition of first operational data (300) of an operating device (21-24) of a first bridge (1), the first data relating to a first sub-operation of the actual operation (E1-E9), and second operational data (300) of an operating device (21-24) of a second bridge (1), the second data relating to a second sub-operation of the actual operation (E1-E9). Computer program product comprising software instructions, which, when executed by a computer, implement the method according to one of claims 1 to 13. Mobile bridge (1) for operating an electrolysis cell of an aluminum production installation (100) or for operating an anode baking furnace (500) (11), said mobile bridge (1) being configured to implement the monitoring method according to any one of the preceding claims, said mobile bridge (1) comprising: - at least one operating device (21-24), - at least one means for measuring at least one operational data relating to the at least one operating device (21-24), said mobile bridge (1) comprising an on-board computer (2) configured to receive said operational data (200) relating to the at least one operating device (21-24) and transmit them to a remote computer (3) in order to identify a deviation in the operation of said operating device (21-24). A system for monitoring a fleet of movable bridges, the system comprising the fleet of movable bridges (1) comprising at least one movable bridge (1) according to the preceding claim and the remote computer (3).

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