Evaluation device and evaluation method

Abstract

An evaluation device (10) comprises an acquisition unit (601) that acquires first three-dimensional shape data of a ring-joint-type flange (30), and an evaluation unit (603) that evaluates the state of a ring joint groove formed on the flange surface of the flange on the basis of the first three-dimensional shape data. The evaluation unit (603) includes: a shape measurement unit (611) that measures a plurality of first shape parameters relating to the shape of the ring joint groove; a detection unit (615) that detects a flaw occurring in a target region of the ring joint groove; a strain amount measurement unit (617) that measures a first strain amount of a first contact surface of the ring joint groove, with which a ring joint gasket (40) is in contact; and a determination unit (619) that determines the necessity of repair of the ring joint groove on the basis of at least one from among the plurality of first shape parameters, the flaw, or the first strain amount.

Description

Evaluation device and evaluation method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an evaluation device and an evaluation method.

[0002] Conventionally, there are known techniques for measuring flange distortion using a portable non-contact three-dimensional coordinate measuring device. For example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-227459 (Patent Document 1) discloses a technique for measuring distortion on a flange surface that requires little space for measurement, does not reduce measurement accuracy even in a field where vibrations are present, and can measure not only waviness data but also flange surface tilt data.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-227459

[0004] One possible cause of fluid leakage from flanges is deterioration or damage to gaskets used at pipe joints, so workers regularly replace gaskets. When doing so, workers visually and tactilely check the condition of the flange surface and, if they determine that the flange surface needs repair, perform appropriate work (e.g., polishing, etc.). For example, in ring-joint flanges that use ring-joint gaskets, checking the condition of the flange surface where the ring-joint groove is formed and determining whether repair is necessary depend on the worker's technical knowledge and experience, resulting in variations between workers. Furthermore, even if workers with limited knowledge and experience check the flange surface (ring-joint groove), they often cannot determine whether the above-mentioned repair is necessary.

[0005] An object of one aspect of the present disclosure is to provide an evaluation device and an evaluation method that are capable of determining whether or not a ring joint groove formed on a flange surface needs to be repaired, depending on the condition of the ring joint groove.

[0006] An evaluation device according to one embodiment includes an acquisition unit that acquires first three-dimensional shape data of a ring joint flange, and an evaluation unit that evaluates the condition of a ring joint groove formed in a flange surface of the flange based on the first three-dimensional shape data. The evaluation unit includes a shape measurement unit that measures a plurality of first shape parameters related to the shape of the ring joint groove, a detection unit that detects scratches occurring in a target area of ​​the ring joint groove, a distortion amount measurement unit that measures a first distortion amount of a first contact surface of the ring joint groove that comes into contact with a ring joint gasket, and a determination unit that determines whether or not the ring joint groove needs to be repaired based on at least one of the plurality of first shape parameters, the scratches, and the first distortion amount.

[0007] Preferably, the determination unit determines that the ring joint groove requires repair when at least one of the plurality of first shape parameters is outside the reference range, when the length of the flaw is equal to or greater than a first length, when the first distortion amount is equal to or greater than a first threshold value, or when the length of the flaw is less than the first length and the depth of the flaw is equal to or greater than a first depth.

[0008] Preferably, the plurality of first shape parameters include an angle formed between a center line indicating the center of the ring joint groove and the first contact surface, and a width and a depth of the ring joint groove.

[0009] Preferably, the evaluation device further includes an output control unit that outputs advice information to a user based on the determination result of the determination unit. The output control unit outputs, as the advice information, information recommending cutting or polishing the ring joint groove based on the determination result that the ring joint groove requires repair.

[0010] Preferably, when the detection unit detects a first flaw and a second flaw that are adjacent to each other in the target region, the detection unit integrates the first flaw and the second flaw as one flaw.

[0011] Preferably, the strain amount measuring unit measures the first strain amount in the radial direction and the circumferential direction of the flange.

[0012] Preferably, the target area is a predetermined area on the first contact surface of the ring joint groove, or the entire area of ​​the first contact surface.

[0013] Preferably, the acquisition unit further acquires second three-dimensional shape data of the ring joint gasket. The evaluation unit further evaluates the condition of the ring joint gasket based on the second three-dimensional shape data. The shape measurement unit further measures a plurality of second shape parameters related to the shape of the ring joint gasket. The detection unit further detects scratches on a second contact surface of the ring joint gasket with which the ring joint groove comes into contact. The strain amount measurement unit further measures a second strain amount of the second contact surface. The determination unit further determines whether or not replacement of the ring joint gasket is necessary based on at least one of the plurality of second shape parameters, the scratches on the second contact surface, and the second strain amount.

[0014] Preferably, the judgment unit judges that replacement of the ring joint gasket is necessary when at least one of the plurality of second shape parameters is outside the reference range, when the length of the scratch on the second contact surface is equal to or greater than the second length, when the second strain amount is equal to or greater than the second threshold value, or when the length of the scratch on the second contact surface is less than the second length and the depth of the scratch on the second contact surface is equal to or greater than the second depth.

[0015] Preferably, the plurality of second shape parameters include a center diameter, a height, and a width of the ring joint gasket.

[0016] Preferably, the strain amount measuring unit calculates a third strain amount in a region where the ring joint gasket is fitted in the ring joint groove based on the first strain amount and the second strain amount. If the third strain amount is equal to or greater than a third threshold, the determining unit determines that at least one of repair of the ring joint groove and replacement of the ring joint gasket is necessary.

[0017] Preferably, the acquisition unit further acquires third three-dimensional shape data of a flange connection in which the flange and the other flange are fastened together via a ring joint gasket. The evaluation unit further includes a gap measurement unit that measures a gap between the flange and the other flange in the flange connection based on the third three-dimensional shape data. If the gap is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the determination unit determines that an abnormality has occurred in at least one of the ring joint grooves of the flange and the other flange and the ring joint gasket.

[0018] An evaluation method according to another embodiment includes the steps of acquiring first three-dimensional shape data of a ring joint flange, and evaluating the condition of a ring joint groove formed in a flange surface of the flange based on the first three-dimensional shape data. The evaluating step includes measuring a plurality of first shape parameters related to the shape of the ring joint groove, detecting a flaw occurring in a target area of ​​the ring joint groove, measuring a first distortion amount of a first contact surface of the ring joint groove that comes into contact with a ring joint gasket, and determining whether or not the ring joint groove needs to be repaired based on at least one of the plurality of first shape parameters, the flaw, and the first distortion amount.

[0019] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to determine whether or not the ring joint groove formed on the flange surface needs to be repaired depending on the condition of the ring joint groove.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the overall configuration of an evaluation system. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an evaluation device. FIG. 3 is a flowchart for explaining an example of an outline of the operation of the evaluation system. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a flange fastened body. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a method for measuring shape parameters of ring joint grooves in a flange. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining a method for calculating the length of scratches in ring joint grooves. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining a method for integrating multiple scratches. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining a method for calculating the depth of scratches in ring joint grooves. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining a method for measuring the amount of strain in the radial direction of ring joint grooves. FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a method for measuring the amount of strain in the circumferential direction of ring joint grooves. FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of an evaluation device.

[0021] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals. The names and functions of these components are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

[0022] <System Configuration> Fig. 1 is a diagram for explaining the overall configuration of an evaluation system. Referring to Fig. 1, evaluation system 1000 is a system for evaluating the condition of the flange surface (flange seating surface) of a flange 30. The flange 30 is a ring joint type flange having a ring joint seating surface as the flange seating surface. This allows a ring joint gasket to be fitted into the flange 30.

[0023] The evaluation system 1000 includes an evaluation device 10 and a 3D scanner 20. In this embodiment, it is assumed that an operator who is a user of the evaluation device 10 uses the 3D scanner 20 to evaluate the condition of the flange surface of the flange 30, for example, when replacing a used sealing material that has been used to fasten the flange 30 with a new unused sealing material. The sealing material according to this embodiment is a ring joint gasket 40 (hereinafter also simply referred to as "gasket 40").

[0024] The gasket 40 is sandwiched between the joints of the pair of flanges 30 and fixed by tightening the bolts of the flanges 30, thereby preventing fluid from leaking from gaps between the flanges 30. The gasket 40 is a sealing material that can seal gaps in the area where it is installed and provide airtightness to that area.

[0025] The 3D scanner 20 is, for example, a portable non-contact 3D scanner that acquires three-dimensional shape data of an object (here, the flange 30 and the gasket 40) and outputs the acquired three-dimensional shape data. The 3D scanner 20 may use a known method such as a laser beam method or a pattern light projection method.

[0026] The flanges 30 have ring joint grooves configured to receive the gaskets 40 used. The gaskets 40 fill and seal the ring joint grooves of the pair of flanges 30. When the fasteners are tightened, the gaskets 40 are pressed into the ring joint grooves and deform to seal the joint between one flange 30 and the other flange 30. The gaskets 40 may be, for example, an octagonal ring joint gasket having an octagonal cross-sectional shape, an oval ring joint gasket having an oval cross-sectional shape, or the like.

[0027] The evaluation device 10 acquires three-dimensional shape data from the 3D scanner 20 (i.e., accepts input of three-dimensional shape data). Typically, the evaluation device 10 is configured to be able to communicate with the 3D scanner 20. In this embodiment, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the state of the ring joint groove based on scratches, distortions, etc. that have occurred in the ring joint groove formed on the flange surface of the flange 30, based on the three-dimensional shape data of the flange 30 to be evaluated. Specifically, the evaluation device 10 determines whether the ring joint groove needs to be repaired and outputs advice information regarding how to deal with the problem.

[0028] The evaluation device 10 determines whether the gasket 40 needs to be replaced based on the three-dimensional shape data of the gasket 40 being evaluated and on scratches, distortions, etc. that have occurred on the gasket 40, and outputs advice information regarding how to deal with the problem. Furthermore, the evaluation device 10 determines abnormalities in the flange 30 and the gasket 40 using the three-dimensional shape data of both the flange 30 and the gasket 40, and the three-dimensional shape data of the fastened body of the pair of flanges 30 and the gasket 40, and outputs advice information regarding how to deal with the problem.

[0029] The evaluation device 10 typically has a structure conforming to a general-purpose computer architecture, and performs various processes described below by executing pre-installed programs with a processor. The evaluation device 10 is, for example, a laptop PC (Personal Computer). However, the evaluation device 10 may be any device (for example, a desktop PC or a tablet terminal device) that can execute the functions and processes described below.

[0030] <Hardware Configuration> Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the evaluation device 10. Referring to Fig. 2, the evaluation device 10 includes a processor 101, a memory 103, a display 105, an input device 107, an input / output interface (I / F) 109, and a communication interface (I / F) 111. These components are connected to each other so as to be able to communicate data with each other.

[0031] The processor 101 is typically an arithmetic processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Multi Processing Unit), etc. The processor 101 controls the operation of each unit of the evaluation device 10 by reading and executing a program stored in the memory 103. Specifically, the processor 101 realizes each function of the evaluation device 10 by executing the program.

[0032] The memory 103 is realized by a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), a hard disk, an SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. The memory 103 stores programs executed by the processor 101, three-dimensional shape data acquired by the 3D scanner 20, etc.

[0033] The display 105 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, etc. The display 105 may be configured integrally with the evaluation device 10, or may be configured separately from the evaluation device 10.

[0034] The input device 107 accepts operation inputs to the evaluation device 10. The input device 107 is realized by, for example, a keyboard, buttons, a mouse, etc. The input device 107 may also be realized as a touch panel.

[0035] The input / output interface 109 mediates data transmission between the processor 101 and the 3D scanner 20. The input / output interface 109 is connected to, for example, the 3D scanner 20. The processor 101 acquires three-dimensional shape data measured by the 3D scanner 20 via the input / output interface 109.

[0036] The communication interface 111 mediates data transmission between the processor 101 and an external device. For example, a wireless communication method such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) is used as the communication method. Alternatively, a wired communication method such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) may be used as the communication method. The processor 101 may communicate with the 3D scanner 20 via the communication interface 111.

[0037] <Operation Overview> Fig. 3 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation overview of the evaluation system. Referring to Fig. 3, the 3D scanner 20 3D scans the pair of flanges 30 and the gasket 40 to generate three-dimensional shape data thereof (step S10). Specifically, the 3D scanner 20 generates three-dimensional shape data of each flange 30, three-dimensional shape data of the gasket 40, and three-dimensional shape data of a joint of the pair of flanges 30 via the gasket 40 (hereinafter also referred to as a "flange joint").

[0038] The evaluation device 10 (for example, the processor 101) acquires each piece of three-dimensional shape data from the 3D scanner 20 and stores it in an internal memory (for example, the memory 103) (step S12).

[0039] The processor 101 measures the gap of the flange fastener based on the three-dimensional shape data of the flange fastener (step S14). Specifically, the processor 101 measures the gap between one flange 30 and the other flange 30 in the flange fastener.

[0040] The processor 101 measures various data related to the flange 30 based on the three-dimensional shape data of the flange 30 (step S16). Specifically, the processor 101 measures the shape of the ring joint groove formed on the flange surface of the flange 30, the length and depth of scratches generated in the ring joint groove, the amount of distortion of the ring joint groove, etc.

[0041] The processor 101 measures various data related to the gasket 40 based on the three-dimensional shape data of the gasket 40 (step S18). Specifically, the processor 101 measures the shape of the gasket 40, the length and depth of any scratches that have occurred in the gasket 40, the amount of distortion of the gasket 40, etc. Furthermore, with the gasket 40 fitted into the ring joint groove, the processor 101 measures the amount of distortion in the fitted area (step S20).

[0042] Based on the measurement results of steps S14 to S20, the processor 101 determines whether or not repair of the ring joint groove and replacement of the gasket 40 are necessary (step S22). Based on the determination results, the processor 101 displays advice information for the user on the display 105 (step S24).

[0043] The evaluation system 1000 uses three-dimensional shape data of the flange 30 and gasket 40 to measure the shapes, damage, and distortion of the ring joint groove and gasket 40. It also measures the gap between the flange fasteners and the distortion of the gasket 40 when it is fitted into the ring joint groove. Based on the measurement results, it determines whether the ring joint groove needs repair or the gasket 40 needs replacement, and provides advice based on the results. This allows the worker to quickly determine whether repair or replacement is necessary and efficiently take action based on the advice information.

[0044] <Measurement of Gap in Flange Fastener> Here, the specific processing content of step S14 in FIG. 3 will be described.

[0045] 4A and 4B are diagrams showing a flange fastening assembly. Fig. 4A shows an oval ring joint gasket 40 fitted into the ring joint groove 310. Fig. 4B shows an octagonal ring joint gasket 40 fitted into the ring joint groove.

[0046] 4( a) shows a flange connection in which a pair of flanges 30 (i.e., upper and lower flanges) are fastened via an oval gasket 40. FIG. 4( b) shows a flange connection in which a pair of flanges 30 are fastened via an octagonal gasket 40. Specifically, an oval (or octagonal) gasket 40 is fitted into a ring joint groove 310 formed in the flange surface 300 of each flange 30. The ring joint groove 310 has a side surface 311 and a bottom surface 312. Typically, the oval (or octagonal) gasket 40 contacts the side surface 311 of the ring joint groove 310.

[0047] As shown in Fig. 4, a gap Cg is formed between one flange 30 (e.g., an upper flange) and the other flange 30 (e.g., a lower flange). The evaluation device 10 measures the gap Cg based on three-dimensional shape data of the flange fastener. Note that the evaluation device 10 may be configured so that an operator measures the gap Cg with a vernier caliper and inputs the measured value into the evaluation device 10. Typically, the evaluation device 10 measures the gap Cg at multiple locations (e.g., four or more locations).

[0048] <Measurement of Various Data Related to Flange> Here, the specific processing content of step S16 in FIG. 3 will be described.

[0049] 5A and 5B, the evaluation device 10 measures a plurality of shape parameters P1 related to the shape of the ring joint groove 310 based on three-dimensional shape data of the flange 30.

[0050] The multiple shape parameters P1 include the angle θr formed between the center line indicating the center of the ring joint groove 310 and the side surface 311, as well as the width F and depth d of the ring joint groove 310. The side surface 311 corresponds to the contact surface of the ring joint groove 310 with which the gasket 40 comes into contact. The depth d corresponds to the distance between the flange surface 300 and the bottom surface 312 of the ring joint groove 310. The shape parameter P1 may also include a corner radius (not shown) of the ring joint groove 310.

[0051] (Measurement of the length and depth of flaws) The evaluation device 10 detects flaws occurring within the target region Nf of the ring joint groove 310 based on the three-dimensional shape data of the flange 30. The flaws in the ring joint groove 310 may be detected using known techniques. For example, the evaluation device 10 detects flaws in the ring joint groove 310 by comparing feature amounts of the flaws pre-stored in the memory 103 with feature amounts of an image created based on the three-dimensional shape data. Typically, the target region Nf is set to a region in contact with the gasket 40 on each of the inner and outer diameter side surfaces 311 of the ring joint groove 310.

[0052] 5A, when an oval-shaped ring joint gasket is employed, the width W of the target region Nf is set to, for example, "d / 2." The center position of the target region Nf is set to, for example, the center position of the side surface 311 (the center position between the flange surface 300 and the bottom surface 312).

[0053] 5(b), when an octagonal ring joint gasket is employed, the width W of the target region Nf is set to the width "w*" or "w*×(4 / 3)" of the hypotenuse of the ring joint gasket. The evaluation device 10 may measure the actual value of the width of the actual contact region between the ring joint groove 310 and the gasket 40 based on the three-dimensional shape data, and use the actual measurement value as the width W.

[0054] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a method for calculating the length of a flaw in a ring joint groove. Referring to FIGS. 6( a) and 6(b), the evaluation device 10 measures (calculates) the length L of the flaw 50 occurring in the target region Nf of the side surface 311 based on the three-dimensional shape data. For example, perpendicular lines 351-353 are drawn from the center line to the side surface 311. Perpendicular line 351 intersects with the flange surface 300, perpendicular line 352 intersects with one end of the flaw 50 occurring in the side surface 311, and perpendicular line 353 intersects with the other end of the flaw 50. This calculates lengths L1 and L2, and the length L of the flaw 50 is calculated based on these lengths L1 and L2, the angle θr included in the shape parameter P1, the angle θ (= 90° - θr), and the like.

[0055] 7A and 7B are diagrams for explaining a method for integrating multiple scratches. Fig. 7A shows an example of a method for integrating multiple scratches. Fig. 7B shows another example of a method for integrating multiple scratches. Fig. 7C shows the length of the scratches after integrating multiple scratches.

[0056] When multiple scratches are close to each other, the evaluation device 10 integrates the multiple scratches as a single scratch. Referring to FIG. 7A, the evaluation device 10 detects scratches A1 to A3. Next, the evaluation device 10 calculates multiple integrated regions B1 to B3 corresponding to the multiple scratches A1 to A3, respectively. The integrated regions are regions set to determine whether the multiple scratches can be integrated as a single scratch. For example, the integrated region B1 is an area defined by a distance of a region width K from each position of the scratch A1. Similarly, the integrated regions B2 and B3 are areas defined by a distance of a region width K from each position of the scratches A2 and A3, respectively.

[0057] The evaluation device 10 determines whether or not each of the multiple integrated regions B1 to B3 overlaps with another integrated region. In the example of Figure 7(a), the integrated regions B1 to B3 overlap with each other, so the evaluation device 10 integrates the multiple scratches A1 to A3 into a single scratch.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 7B, the evaluation device 10 detects scratches A1 and A2 and calculates multiple integrated areas B1 and B2 corresponding to the scratches A1 and A2, respectively. The calculation method for the integrated area B1 will be described below. A reference line indicating the maximum length of the scratch A1 is drawn, and line segments C1 and C2 are determined that are a distance of area width K from the two ends of the scratch A1 on the reference line. Next, the ends of the scratch A1 that are farthest from the reference line in the left-right direction perpendicular to the reference line are identified. Line segments C3 and C4 are determined that are a distance of area width K from the identified ends in each direction. The integrated area B1 is the area surrounded by line segments C1 to C4. The integrated area B2 is also calculated using a similar method.

[0059] The evaluation device 10 determines whether the integrated region B1 overlaps with the integrated region B2. In the example of Fig. 7B, the integrated regions B1 and B2 overlap with each other, so the evaluation device 10 integrates the multiple scratches A1 and A2 into a single scratch.

[0060] 7(c), the evaluation device 10 uses the above-described integration method to integrate the scratches A1 to A3 and regard them as a single scratch. In this case, the maximum length of the integrated scratches is defined as the distance between point R1, which is the closest point to the flange surface 300 among the positions of the scratches A1 to A3, and point R2, which is the closest point to the bottom surface 312 (or the farthest point from the flange surface 300 among the positions of the scratches A1 to A3). Therefore, the length L of the integrated scratches is calculated using the length of the line segment R1R2 using the method described in FIG.

[0061] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a method for calculating the depth of a scratch in a ring joint groove. Referring to FIG. 8( a), as one example, a perpendicular line is drawn from the side surface 311 (the hypotenuse of the ring joint groove 310) to the deepest point of the scratch 50, and the length of the perpendicular line is measured (calculated) as the depth D of the scratch 50. Referring to FIG. 8( b), as another example, a perpendicular line is drawn from the center line to the deepest point of the scratch 50. The distance between the intersection of the perpendicular line and the side surface 311 (the hypotenuse of the ring joint groove 310) and this position is calculated as the depth D of the scratch 50. Referring to FIG. 8( c), as yet another example, an imaginary surface 361 is defined that surrounds the periphery of the scratch 50. The distance from the imaginary surface 361 to the deepest point of the scratch 50 is calculated as the depth D.

[0062] (Measurement of distortion amount) The evaluation device 10 measures the distortion amount of the contact surface (i.e., the side surface 311) of the ring joint groove 310 with which the gasket 40 comes into contact, based on the three-dimensional shape data of the flange 30. Specifically, the evaluation device 10 measures the distortion amount of the side surface 311 in the radial direction and the circumferential direction of the flange 30.

[0063] 9A and 9B are diagrams for explaining a method for measuring the radial distortion of the ring joint groove. Fig. 9A is a top view of the flange surface 300. Fig. 9B and Fig. 9C are cross-sectional views of the ring joint groove 310.

[0064] 9A, a plurality of check lines are drawn radially from the center O of the flange. Typically, the check lines are drawn at equal intervals (for example, at 45-degree intervals) around the circumference of the flange. The distortion amounts are measured for the inner and outer diameter side surfaces 311 that intersect with the check lines.

[0065] Referring to Figure 9(b), the average plane of the side surface 311 (the hypotenuse of the ring joint groove 310) where distortion occurs is defined as the reference plane (the conical side surface). A perpendicular line is drawn from the reference plane to the side surface 311, and the length of the perpendicular line is measured (calculated) as the radial distortion amount Sr. Referring to Figure 9(c), as another example, a perpendicular line is drawn from the center line to the reference plane. The distance between the intersection of the perpendicular line and the side surface 311 (the hypotenuse of the ring joint groove 310) and the intersection of the perpendicular line and the reference plane is calculated as the radial distortion amount Sr.

[0066] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a method for measuring the amount of distortion of the ring joint groove in the circumferential direction. Figures 10A and 10B are cross-sectional views of the ring joint groove 310. Figure 10C is a diagram illustrating the circumferential locus of the intersection between the side surface 311 of the ring joint groove 310 and the measurement surface.

[0067] 10( a), the angle θm between the central axis of the inner diameter of the flange 30 and the flange surface 300 is defined. Based on the angle θm, multiple measurement surfaces X1 and X2 parallel to the flange surface 300 are created. The intersection of the measurement surface X1 and the outer diameter side surface 311 is defined as point Od1, and the intersection of the measurement surface X1 and the inner diameter side surface 311 is defined as point Id1. The intersection of the measurement surface X2 and the outer diameter side surface 311 is defined as point Od2, and the intersection of the measurement surface X2 and the inner diameter side surface 311 is defined as point Id2. As another example, referring to FIG. 10( b), multiple measurement surfaces X1 and X2 may be created by drawing a perpendicular line from the central axis to the ring joint groove 310.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 10(c), the locus of point Od1 around the entire circumference of the ring joint groove 310 is shown. The average of this locus is defined as a reference circle, and the distance between the reference circle and the locus is measured (calculated) as the circumferential distortion amount Sc. The allowable range is a predetermined distance (e.g., ±0.15 mm) from the reference circle. In the example of FIG. 10(c), the locus of point Od1 is included in the allowable range (i.e., the distortion amount Sc is less than the predetermined distance), so the distortion amount Sr at point Od1 on the side surface 311 is allowable. The distortion amounts at points Od2, Id1, and Id2 are calculated in a similar manner.

[0069] <Measurement of Various Data Related to the Gasket> Here, the specific processing content of step S18 in FIG. 3 will be described.

[0070] 11A and 11B, the evaluation device 10 measures a plurality of shape parameters P2 related to the shape of the gasket 40 based on three-dimensional shape data of the gasket 40.

[0071] 11( a), when the gasket 40 is an oval-shaped ring joint gasket, the multiple shape parameters P2 include the center diameter of the gasket 40 (i.e., the distance between the inner diameter center line and the cross-sectional center line of the gasket 40), the height Hov, the width Aov, and the length of the R portion. Referring to Fig. 11( b), when the gasket 40 is an octagonal-shaped ring joint gasket, the multiple shape parameters P2 include the center diameter, height Hoc, width Aoc, head plane width Coc, and head taper angle θoc of the gasket 40.

[0072] (Measurement of the length and depth of flaws) The evaluation device 10 detects flaws occurring within the target region Ng of the gasket 40 based on the three-dimensional shape data of the gasket 40. The flaws on the gasket 40 may be detected using known techniques. For example, the evaluation device 10 detects flaws on the gasket 40 by comparing feature amounts of the flaws pre-stored in the memory 103 with feature amounts of an image created based on the three-dimensional shape data. Typically, the target region Ng is set on the contact surface of the gasket 40 where the inner and outer diameter side surfaces 311 of the ring joint groove 310 come into contact.

[0073] 12A and 12B are diagrams illustrating a method for setting the target area of ​​a gasket. Referring to Fig. 12A, when an oval-shaped ring joint gasket is used, a tangent line 401 is drawn to the gasket 40 so that the angle between the tangent line 401 and the cross-sectional center line of the gasket 40 is an angle θr. A width of "d / 2" is specified with the point of contact between the tangent line 401 and the gasket 40 as the center, and two perpendicular lines are drawn to the gasket 40. The intersection of one perpendicular line and the gasket 40 is designated as point Y1, and the intersection of the other perpendicular line and the gasket 40 is designated as point Y2.

[0074] When the gasket 40 is an oval-shaped ring joint gasket, the target area Ng is set to the side area of ​​the gasket 40 from point Y1 to point Y2. The target area Ng shown in Figure 12(a) includes the contact surface of the gasket 40 with which the outer diameter side surface 311 of the ring joint groove 310 comes into contact.

[0075] 12(b), when an octagonal ring joint gasket is used, a width of "w*×(4 / 3)" is defined with the center of the hypotenuse as the center, and two perpendicular lines are drawn to the gasket 40. The intersection of one perpendicular line and the gasket 40 is designated as point Y3, and the intersection of the other perpendicular line and the gasket 40 is designated as point Y4.

[0076] When the gasket 40 is an octagonal ring joint gasket, the target area Ng is set to the side area of ​​the gasket 40 from point Y3 to point Y4. The target area Ng shown in Figure 12(b) includes the contact surface of the gasket 40 that comes into contact with the side surface 311 on the outer diameter side of the ring joint groove 310. Note that a side area defined by the width "w*" with the center of the oblique side as the center may also be set as the target area Ng.

[0077] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a method for calculating the length of a gasket flaw. Referring to FIGS. 13(a) and 13(b), the evaluation device 10 measures (calculates) the length Lg of the flaw 60 occurring in the target region Ng of the gasket 40 based on the three-dimensional shape data. For example, perpendicular lines 451-453 are drawn from the cross-sectional centerline to the contact surface 411 of the gasket 40 (i.e., the surface where the gasket 40 and the ring joint groove 310 contact each other). Perpendicular line 451 intersects the end of the contact surface 411, perpendicular line 452 intersects one end of the flaw 60 occurring in the target region Ng, and perpendicular line 453 intersects the other end of the flaw 60. This calculates lengths L1g and L2g, and the length Lg of the flaw 60 is calculated based on these lengths L1g and L2g, the angle θr included in the shape parameter P2, the angle θ (= 90° - θr), and the like.

[0078] The method for integrating multiple scratches that occur in the gasket 40 is the same as the method for integrating multiple scratches that occur in the ring joint groove described above.

[0079] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a method for calculating the depth of a flaw in a gasket. Referring to FIG. 14( a), a perpendicular line is drawn from the contact surface 411 of the gasket 40 to the deepest point of the flaw 60, and the length of the perpendicular line is measured (calculated) as the depth Dg of the flaw 60. Referring to FIG. 14( b), as another example, a perpendicular line is drawn from the center line of the cross section to the deepest point of the flaw 60. The distance between the intersection of the perpendicular line and the contact surface 411 of the gasket 40 and the deepest point is calculated as the depth Dg of the flaw 60. Referring to FIG. 14( c), as yet another example, an imaginary plane 461 is defined that surrounds the periphery of the flaw 60. The distance from the imaginary plane 461 to the deepest point of the flaw 60 is calculated as the depth Dg.

[0080] (Measurement of distortion amount) Based on the three-dimensional shape data of the gasket 40, the evaluation device 10 measures the distortion amount of the contact surface 411 of the gasket 40, where the side surface 311 of the ring joint groove 310 comes into contact. Specifically, the evaluation device 10 measures the distortion amount of the contact surface 411 in the radial direction and circumferential direction of the gasket 40. The contact surface 411 of an oval-shaped gasket 40 is a surface that includes the R portion of the gasket 40. The contact surface 411 of an octagonal-shaped gasket 40 is a surface that includes the oblique side portion of the gasket 40.

[0081] 15A and 15B are diagrams for explaining a method for measuring the amount of radial distortion of a gasket. Fig. 15A is a top view of the gasket 40. Fig. 15B and Fig. 15C are cross-sectional views of the gasket 40.

[0082] 15( a), a plurality of check lines are drawn radially from the center Og of the inner diameter of the gasket 40. Typically, the check lines are drawn at equal intervals (for example, at 45-degree intervals) around the circumference of the gasket 40. The amount of distortion is measured for the contact surfaces 411 on the inner and outer diameter sides that intersect with the check lines.

[0083] Referring to Figure 15(b), the average plane of the contact surface 411 where distortion occurs is defined as the reference plane. A perpendicular line is drawn from the reference plane to the contact surface 411, and the length of the perpendicular line is measured (calculated) as the radial distortion amount Srg. Referring to Figure 15(c), as another example, a perpendicular line is drawn from the center line to the reference plane. The distance between the intersection of the perpendicular line and the contact surface 411 and the intersection of the perpendicular line and the reference plane is calculated as the radial distortion amount Srg.

[0084] 16A and 16B are diagrams illustrating a method for measuring the amount of strain in the circumferential direction of a gasket. 16A and 16B are cross-sectional views of a gasket 40. 16C is a diagram illustrating the circumferential locus of the intersection between the contact surface 411 of the gasket 40 and the measurement surface.

[0085] Referring to FIG. 16( a), the angle θmg formed between the central axis of the inner diameter of the gasket 40 and the bottom surface 412 (or top surface) of the gasket 40 is defined. Based on the angle θmg, multiple measurement surfaces X1g and X2g parallel to the contact surface 411 of the gasket 40 are created. The intersection of the measurement surface X1g and the outer diameter side contact surface 411 is defined as point Oe1, and the intersection of the measurement surface X1g and the inner diameter side contact surface 411 is defined as point Ie1. The intersection of the measurement surface X2g and the outer diameter side contact surface 411 is defined as point Oe2, and the intersection of the measurement surface X2g and the inner diameter side contact surface 411 is defined as point Ie2. As another example, referring to FIG. 16( b), multiple measurement surfaces X1g and X2g may be created by drawing a perpendicular line from the central axis to the gasket 40.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 16(c), the locus of point Oe1 around the entire circumference of the gasket 40 is shown. The average of this locus is defined as a reference circle, and the distance between the reference circle and the locus is measured (calculated) as the circumferential strain Scg. The allowable range is a predetermined distance (e.g., ±0.15 mm) from the reference circle. In the example of FIG. 16(c), the locus of point Oe1 is included within the allowable range (i.e., the strain Scg is less than the predetermined distance), so the strain Srg of point Oe1 on the contact surface 411 is allowable. The strains of points Oe2, Ie1, and Ie2 are calculated in a similar manner.

[0087] <Measurement of distortion amount when gasket is fitted> Here, the specific processing content of step S20 in FIG. 3 will be described.

[0088] The amount of distortion of the side surface 311 of the ring joint groove 310 can be measured by the method described in Figures 9 and 10. Moreover, the amount of distortion of the contact surface 411 of the gasket 40 can be measured by the method described in Figures 15 and 16. However, in reality, these are used with the gasket 40 fitted into the ring joint groove 310, so it is preferable to measure the degree of distortion occurring in that state. Here, a method for measuring the amount of distortion in the fastening portion where the gasket 40 is fitted into the ring joint groove 310 will be described.

[0089] Figure 17 is a diagram for explaining a method for measuring the amount of strain in a fastened portion. Figure 17(a) is a diagram for explaining the amount of strain on the contact surface of the gasket and the side surface of the ring joint groove. Figure 17(b) is a diagram for explaining the amount of strain in the fastened portion.

[0090] 17A, the amount of distortion of the contact surface 411 of the gasket 40 and the amount of distortion of the side surface 311 of the ring joint groove are both less than the reference distortion amount Thx. Therefore, the evaluation device 10 determines that the amount of distortion of each of the contact surface 411 and the side surface 311 is within the allowable distortion amount.

[0091] 17(b), the evaluation device 10 calculates the amount of strain in the fastening portion where the gasket 40 is fitted into the ring joint groove 310, based on the amount of strain in each of the contact surface 411 and the side surface 311. Specifically, the evaluation device 10 calculates, as the amount of strain in the fastening portion, the sum of the amount of strain at each position on the contact surface 411 and the amount of strain at each position on the side surface 311 that faces each position on the contact surface 411 when the gasket 40 is fitted into the ring joint groove 310.

[0092] 17A, in region 501, the contact surface 411 is distorted upward (+Th direction), and the side surface 311 is also distorted upward. Therefore, the amount of distortion of the fastening portion does not increase and is less than the reference distortion amount Thx.

[0093] On the other hand, in region 502, contact surface 411 is distorted upward, but side surface 311 is distorted downward (in the −Th direction). As a result, the amount of distortion in the fastening portion increases and exceeds the reference distortion amount Thx.

[0094] The evaluation device 10 extracts the maximum value of the distortion amount of the fastened portion and compares the maximum value with the reference distortion amount Thx to determine whether the distortion amount of the fastened portion is permissible.

[0095] Figure 18 is a diagram for explaining another example of a method for measuring the amount of distortion of a fastened portion. Figure 18(a) is a diagram for explaining the amount of distortion of the contact surface of the gasket and the side surface of the ring joint groove. Figure 18(b) is a diagram for explaining the amount of distortion of the fastened portion.

[0096] In the example of Figure 18(a), scratches and attachments exist on the side surface 311 of the ring joint groove 310. In this way, when scratches and attachments exist on the side surface 311 (or the contact surface 411), the amount of strain may be calculated taking these into consideration. Referring to Figure 18(b), it can be seen that in the area where scratches and attachments exist on the side surface 311, the amount of strain in the fastening portion is equal to or greater than the reference strain amount Thx.

[0097] <Determining Whether Repair or Replacement is Necessary> Here, the specific processing content of step S22 in FIG. 3 will be described.

[0098] Based on the above-described evaluation results, the evaluation device 10 determines whether or not repair of the ring joint groove 310 and replacement of the gasket 40 are necessary. Specifically, the following conditions are used to determine whether or not repair and replacement are necessary.

[0099] (Condition Z1: Gap of Flange Fastener) Condition Z1 is a condition based on the gap Cg of the flange fastener. Specifically, the evaluation device 10 determines whether condition Z1, which requires that at least one of the gaps Cg measured at each of a plurality of locations be equal to or greater than a reference value Cx (e.g., 1.5 mm), is satisfied. If condition Z1 is satisfied, the evaluation device 10 determines that an abnormality has occurred in at least one of the ring joint grooves 310 of one flange 30 and the other flange 30, and the gasket 40.

[0100] The evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity of the flange 30 and the gasket 40. The severity is evaluated on an 11-point scale from "0" to "10." The higher the severity value, the more severe the condition of the flange 30 and the gasket 40 (i.e., the worse the condition of the flange 30 and the gasket 40). If condition Z1 is met, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity as "2."

[0101] (Condition Z2: Shape of Ring Joint Groove) Condition Z2 is a condition based on the shape parameter P1 of the ring joint groove 310 of the flange 30. The evaluation device 10 determines whether or not each shape parameter P1 satisfies the corresponding criterion.

[0102] Specifically, the evaluation device 10 determines whether condition Z2a is satisfied, that is, whether the angle θr is outside a reference angle range θx (e.g., a range of 23±0.5 degrees). The evaluation device 10 determines whether condition Z2b is satisfied, that the width F of the ring joint groove 310 is outside a reference range Fx (e.g., a range of a specified width ±0.2 mm). The evaluation device 10 determines whether condition Z2c is satisfied, that is, whether the depth d of the ring joint groove 310 is outside a reference range dx (e.g., a range of "specified depth" to "specified depth + 0.4 mm").

[0103] If at least one of conditions Z2a to Z2c is met (i.e., if condition Z2 is met), the evaluation device 10 determines that the ring joint groove 310 is in a state requiring repair. If condition Z2 is met, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity of the ring joint groove 310 as "10."

[0104] (Condition Z3: Damage and distortion of ring joint groove) Condition Z3 is a condition based on the maximum length Lmax of a damage occurring in the target region Nf of the ring joint groove 310 and the distortion amount of the side surface 311. The maximum length Lmax is the maximum value among the lengths L of the multiple detected damages.

[0105] The evaluation device 10 determines whether or not the condition Z3a that the maximum length Lmax of the flaw is equal to or greater than the reference value Lx1 is satisfied. The reference value Lx1 is set to, for example, "W x (1 / 2)" using the width W of the target region Nf. As described above, when an oval ring joint gasket is used, "W = d / 2" is satisfied, and when an octagonal ring joint gasket is used, "W = w* x (4 / 3)" or "W = w*" is satisfied. When the maximum length Lmax is equal to or greater than the reference value Lx1 (i.e., when the condition Z3a is satisfied), the evaluation device 10 determines that the ring joint groove 310 requires repair.

[0106] The evaluation device 10 also determines whether the distortion of the side surface 311 is equal to or greater than a reference distortion Th1 (e.g., 0.15 mm). Specifically, the evaluation device 10 determines whether a condition Z3b is satisfied, which requires that both the maximum radial distortion J1 of the side surface 311 and the maximum circumferential distortion J2 of the side surface 311 be equal to or greater than the reference distortion Th1. If both the maximum distortion J1 and the maximum distortion J2 are equal to or greater than the reference distortion Th1 (i.e., condition Z3b is satisfied), the evaluation device 10 determines that the ring joint groove 310 requires repair.

[0107] In summary, when at least one of condition Z3a and condition Z3b is satisfied (i.e., condition Z3 is satisfied), the evaluation device 10 determines that the ring joint groove 310 is in a state requiring repair. When condition Z3 is satisfied, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity of the ring joint groove 310 as "8."

[0108] (Condition Z4: Damage to Ring Joint Groove) Condition Z4 is a condition based on the length L and depth D of damage to the ring joint groove.

[0109] The evaluation device 10 determines whether a condition Z4a is satisfied that a scratch exists having a length L that is less than a reference value Lx1 and equal to or greater than a reference value Lx2, and a depth D that is equal to or greater than a reference value Dx1 (e.g., 0.25 mm). For example, the reference value Lx2 is set to "W x (1 / 4)". The evaluation device 10 also determines whether a condition Z4b is satisfied that a scratch exists having a length L that is less than the reference value Lx2, and a depth D that is equal to or greater than a reference value Dx2 (e.g., 0.75 mm).

[0110] If at least one of the conditions Z4a and Z4b is satisfied (i.e., if the condition Z4 is satisfied), the evaluation device 10 determines that the ring joint groove 310 is in a state requiring repair. If the condition Z4 is satisfied, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity of the ring joint groove 310 as "6."

[0111] (Condition Z5: Shape of Gasket) Condition Z5 is a condition based on the shape parameter P2 of the gasket 40. The evaluation device 10 determines whether or not the corresponding criterion is met for each shape parameter P2.

[0112] Specifically, the evaluation device 10 determines whether condition Z5a is satisfied, that is, whether the center diameter of the gasket 40 is outside a reference range Cdx (e.g., within a range of a specified value ±0.18 mm). The evaluation device 10 determines whether condition Z5b is satisfied, that the height H (e.g., Hov, Hoc) of the gasket 40 is outside a reference range Hx (e.g., within a range of "specified value -0.5 mm" to "specified value +1.3 mm"). The evaluation device 10 determines whether condition Z5c is satisfied, that is, whether the width A (e.g., Aov, Aoc) of the gasket 40 is outside a reference range Ax (e.g., within a range of a specified value ±0.2 mm).

[0113] When an oval-shaped gasket 40 is used, the evaluation device 10 determines whether or not the condition Z5d that the length of the R portion of the gasket 40 is outside the standard range (for example, within the range of a specified value ±0.2 mm) is met.

[0114] When an octagonal gasket 40 is used, the evaluation device 10 determines whether condition Z5e is satisfied, that is, whether the planar width Coc of the gasket 40 is outside a reference range (e.g., within a range of a specified value ±0.2 mm). Furthermore, the evaluation device 10 determines whether condition Z5f is satisfied, that is, whether the taper angle θoc of the head of the gasket 40 is outside a reference range (e.g., within a range of 23 ±0.5 degrees).

[0115] For an oval gasket 40, if at least one of conditions Z5a to Z5d is met (i.e., if condition Z5 is met), the evaluation device 10 determines that the gasket 40 needs to be replaced. Furthermore, for an octagonal gasket 40, if at least one of conditions Z5a to Z5c, Z5e, and Z5f is met (i.e., if condition Z5 is met), the evaluation device 10 determines that the gasket 40 needs to be replaced. If condition Z5 is met, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity of the gasket 40 as "10."

[0116] (Condition Z6: Damage and Distortion Amount of Gasket) Condition Z6 is a condition based on the maximum length Lgmax of a damage occurring in the target region Ng of the gasket 40 and the distortion amount of the contact surface 411. The maximum length Lgmax is the maximum value among the lengths Lg of the multiple detected damages.

[0117] The evaluation device 10 determines whether or not the condition Z6a that the maximum length Lgmax of the flaw is equal to or greater than the reference value Lgx1 is satisfied. The reference value Lgx1 is set to, for example, "Wg x (1 / 2)" using the width Wg of the target area Ng. When an oval-shaped ring joint gasket is used, the width Wg is the width of the target area Ng in FIG. 12(a). When an octagonal-shaped ring joint gasket is used, the width Wg is the width of the target area Ng in FIG. 12(b). When the maximum length Lgmax is equal to or greater than the reference value Lgx1 (i.e., when the condition Z6a is satisfied), the evaluation device 10 determines that the gasket 40 requires replacement.

[0118] The evaluation device 10 determines whether the strain amount of the contact surface 411 is equal to or greater than a reference strain amount Th2 (e.g., 0.15 mm). Specifically, the evaluation device 10 determines whether condition Z6b is satisfied, which requires that both the maximum radial strain amount Jg1 of the contact surface 411 and the maximum circumferential strain amount Jg2 of the contact surface 411 be equal to or greater than the reference strain amount Th2. If both the maximum strain amount J1 and the maximum strain amount J2 are equal to or greater than the reference strain amount Th2 (i.e., condition Z6b is satisfied), the evaluation device 10 determines that the gasket 40 requires replacement.

[0119] In summary, when at least one of condition Z6a and condition Z6b is satisfied (i.e., condition Z6 is satisfied), the evaluation device 10 determines that the gasket 40 needs to be replaced. When condition Z6 is satisfied, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity of the gasket 40 as "8."

[0120] (Condition Z7: Damage to Gasket) Condition Z7 is a condition based on the length Lg and depth Dg of a damage to the gasket.

[0121] The evaluation device 10 determines whether a condition Z7a is satisfied that a scratch exists having a length Lg that is less than a reference value Lgx1 and equal to or greater than a reference value Lgx2, and a depth Dg that is equal to or greater than a reference value Dx1 (e.g., 0.25 mm). For example, the reference value Lgx2 is set to "Wg × (1 / 4)." The evaluation device 10 also determines whether a condition Z7b is satisfied that a scratch exists having a length Lg that is less than the reference value Lgx2, and a depth Dg that is equal to or greater than a reference value Dx2 (e.g., 0.75 mm).

[0122] When at least one of the conditions Z7a and Z7b is satisfied (i.e., when the condition Z7 is satisfied), the evaluation device 10 determines that the gasket 40 needs to be replaced. When the condition Z7 is satisfied, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity of the gasket 40 as "6."

[0123] (Condition Z8: Amount of Distortion of Fastened Portion) Condition Z8 is a condition based on the amount of distortion of the fastened portion where the gasket 40 is fitted into the ring joint groove 310.

[0124] The evaluation device 10 determines whether or not condition Z8, which requires that the maximum amount of strain in the fastened portion be equal to or greater than a reference strain amount Thx (e.g., 0.05 mm), is met. If the maximum amount of strain in the fastened portion is equal to or greater than the reference strain amount Thx (i.e., condition Z8 is met), the evaluation device 10 determines that the ring joint groove 310 requires repair or that the gasket 40 requires replacement. If condition Z8 is met, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity of the fastened portion as "4."

[0125] (Condition Z9: Amount of Distortion and Damage in Fastened Portion) Condition Z9 is a condition based on the amount of distortion and depth of damage (for example, depths D and Dg) in the fastened portion.

[0126] The evaluation device 10 determines whether or not condition Z9 is satisfied, which states that the sum of the maximum amount of strain in the fastened portion and the depth of the flaw is equal to or greater than a reference value Thx (e.g., 0.05 mm). If the sum is equal to or greater than the reference value Thx (i.e., condition Z9 is satisfied), the evaluation device 10 determines that the ring joint groove 310 requires repair or that the gasket 40 requires replacement. If condition Z9 is satisfied, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity of the fastened portion as "4."

[0127] (Summary) If condition Z1 is met, the evaluation device 10 determines that an abnormality has occurred in at least one of the flange 30 and the gasket 40. If any of conditions Z2 to Z4 is met, the evaluation device 10 determines that the ring joint groove 310 is in a state requiring repair. If any of conditions Z5 to Z7 is met, the evaluation device 10 determines that the gasket 40 is in a state requiring replacement. If any of conditions Z8 or Z9 is met, the evaluation device 10 determines that the ring joint groove 310 of the flange 30 is in a state requiring repair, or that the gasket 40 is in a state requiring replacement. Furthermore, if any of conditions Z1 to Z9 is met, the evaluation device 10 evaluates the severity according to the met condition.

[0128] On the other hand, if none of the conditions Z1 to Z9 are satisfied, it is considered that the condition of the ring joint groove 310 and the gasket 40 is good. Therefore, in this case, the evaluation device 10 determines that repair of the ring joint groove 310 and replacement of the gasket 40 are not necessary.

[0129] <Display of Advice Information> Here, the specific processing content of step S24 in FIG. 3 will be described.

[0130] (When condition Z1 is satisfied) The gasket, ring joint groove, etc. may be deformed. Therefore, the evaluation device 10 displays advice information on the display 105 indicating that these abnormalities need to be checked when the flange is opened, and including a severity level of "2." The advice information also includes information recommending repair of the ring joint groove and replacement of the gasket depending on the results of the abnormality check. The information recommending repair of the ring joint groove includes, for example, information recommending cutting or polishing to a value equal to or greater than the maximum value of the scratches and distortion amounts plus a predetermined value (e.g., 0.05 mm).

[0131] (When conditions Z2 and Z3 are met) The ring joint groove is deformed and needs to be repaired. The evaluation device 10 displays advice information on the display 105, including information that the ring joint groove needs to be repaired. The advice information includes information recommending that the ring joint groove and the gasket be fitted together and that the contact surface be checked using Komyotan. When condition Z2 is met, the advice information further includes information indicating a severity level of "10". When condition Z3 is met, the advice information further includes information indicating a severity level of "8".

[0132] (When condition Z4 is satisfied) There is an abnormality in the ring joint groove and repair is required. The evaluation device 10 displays advice information on the display 105 indicating that the ring joint groove needs repair and including a severity level of "4." The advice information includes information recommending that the ring joint groove and the gasket be fitted together and that the contact surface be checked using Komyotan.

[0133] (When conditions Z5 and Z6 are met) The gasket is deformed and needs to be replaced. The evaluation device 10 displays advice information on the display 105, including information that the gasket needs to be replaced. The advice information includes information recommending that the ring joint groove and the gasket be fitted together and that the contact surface be checked using Komyotan. When condition Z5 is met, the advice information further includes information indicating a severity level of "10". When condition Z6 is met, the advice information further includes information indicating a severity level of "8".

[0134] (When condition Z7 is satisfied) The gasket is abnormal and needs to be replaced. The evaluation device 10 displays advice information on the display 105 indicating that the gasket needs to be replaced and including a severity level of "6." The advice information includes information recommending that the ring joint groove and the gasket be fitted together and that the contact surface be checked using a tan.

[0135] (When conditions Z8 and Z9 are satisfied) There is a possibility of leakage due to deformation of the gasket or ring joint groove, etc. The evaluation device 10 displays on the display 105 advice information including information recommending repair of the ring joint groove and replacement of the gasket, as well as a severity level of "4."

[0136] <Functional Configuration> Fig. 19 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the evaluation device. Referring to Fig. 19, the evaluation device 10 includes, as its main functional components, a data acquisition unit 601, an evaluation unit 603, and an output control unit 605. These functions are realized, for example, by the processor 101 of the evaluation device 10 executing a program stored in the memory 103. Note that some or all of these functions may be configured to be realized by hardware.

[0137] The data acquisition unit 601 acquires three-dimensional shape data of each of the flange 30 and the gasket 40. The data acquisition unit 601 also acquires three-dimensional shape data of a flange fastened body in which one flange 30 and the other flange 30 are fastened together via the ring joint gasket 40. Specifically, the data acquisition unit 601 acquires each three-dimensional shape data from the 3D scanner 20 via the input / output interface 109 (or the communication interface 111).

[0138] The evaluation unit 603 evaluates the state of the ring joint groove 310, the gasket 40, and the flange fastening body based on each of the three-dimensional shape data. Specifically, the evaluation unit 603 includes a shape measurement unit 611, a gap measurement unit 612, a setting unit 613, a detection unit 615, a distortion amount measurement unit 617, and a determination unit 619.

[0139] The shape measuring unit 611 measures a plurality of shape parameters P1 (e.g., angle θr, width F, depth d) related to the shape of the ring joint groove 310 based on the three-dimensional shape data of the flange 30. The shape measuring unit 611 measures a plurality of shape parameters P2 (e.g., center diameter, height, and width of the gasket) related to the shape of the gasket 40 based on the three-dimensional shape data of the gasket 40.

[0140] The gap measurement unit 612 measures the gap between one flange 30 and the other flange 30 in the flange fastening body based on the three-dimensional shape data of the flange fastening body.

[0141] The setting unit 613 sets the target area Nf of the ring joint groove 310 based on the three-dimensional shape data of the flange 30. Specifically, the setting unit 613 sets the target area Nf according to the method described in Fig. 5. The target area Nf is a predetermined area (e.g., an area defined by a width W) on the contact surface (i.e., the side surface 311) of the ring joint groove 310. Note that the target area Nf may be the entire area of ​​the side surface 311.

[0142] Furthermore, the setting unit 613 sets a target region Ng of the gasket 40 based on the three-dimensional shape data of the gasket 40. Specifically, the setting unit 613 sets the target region Ng according to the method described in Fig. 12. The target region Ng is set on the contact surface 411 of the gasket 40 with which the side surface 311 of the ring joint groove 310 comes into contact.

[0143] The detection unit 615 detects scratches occurring in the target region Nf based on the three-dimensional shape data of the flange 30. In one aspect, when the detection unit 615 detects a first scratch (e.g., scratch A1 in FIG. 7 ) and a second scratch (e.g., scratch A2 in FIG. 7 ) that are close to each other in the target region Nf according to the above-described method for integrating multiple scratches, the detection unit 615 integrates the first scratch and the second scratch into a single scratch. The detection unit 615 outputs the detection result of the scratches in the target region Nf to the determination unit 619. The detection result includes the length L of the detected scratch, the depth D of the scratch, etc.

[0144] Furthermore, the detection unit 615 detects scratches that have occurred on the contact surface 411 (for example, target area Ng) of the gasket 40 with which the ring joint groove 310 comes into contact, based on the three-dimensional shape data of the gasket 40. The detection unit 615 outputs the detection result of the scratches in the target area Ng to the determination unit 619. The detection result includes the length Lg of the detected scratch, the depth Dg of the scratch, etc.

[0145] The distortion amount measuring unit 617 measures the distortion amount of the contact surface (i.e., the side surface 311) of the ring joint groove 310 based on the three-dimensional shape data of the flange 30. Specifically, the distortion amount measuring unit 617 measures the distortion amount in the radial direction of the side surface 311 according to the measurement method described in Fig. 9, and measures the distortion amount in the circumferential direction of the side surface 311 according to the measurement method described in Fig. 10.

[0146] In another aspect, the strain amount measuring unit 617 measures the amount of strain of the contact surface 411 of the gasket 40 based on the three-dimensional shape data of the gasket 40. Specifically, the strain amount measuring unit 617 measures the amount of strain in the radial direction of the contact surface 411 according to the measurement method described with reference to Fig. 15 , and measures the amount of strain in the circumferential direction of the contact surface 411 according to the measurement method described with reference to Fig. 16 .

[0147] In still another aspect, the strain amount measuring unit 617 calculates the amount of strain in the region where the gasket 40 is fitted into the ring joint groove 310 (for example, the fastening portion) based on the amount of strain of the side surface 311 and the amount of strain of the contact surface 411. Specifically, the strain amount measuring unit 617 calculates the amount of strain in accordance with the measurement method described with reference to FIGS.

[0148] The determination unit 619 determines whether or not the ring joint groove 310 needs to be repaired based on at least one of the plurality of shape parameters P1, and the amount of damage and distortion of the ring joint groove 310.

[0149] Specifically, if at least one of the multiple shape parameters P1 is outside the reference range (for example, if condition Z2 is satisfied), if the length L of the scratch in the target region Nf is equal to or greater than a first length (for example, a reference value Lx1) (for example, if condition Z3a is satisfied), or if the amount of distortion of the side surface 311 is equal to or greater than a first threshold value (for example, a reference distortion amount Th1) (for example, if condition Z3b is satisfied), the judgment unit 619 judges that the ring joint groove 310 is in a state requiring repair.

[0150] Furthermore, if the length L of the scratch is less than the first length and the depth D of the scratch is equal to or greater than the first depth (e.g., reference value Dx1) (e.g., if condition Z4a is satisfied), the judgment unit 619 judges that the ring joint groove 310 is in a state requiring repair.

[0151] In another aspect, determination unit 619 determines whether gasket 40 needs to be replaced based on at least one of a plurality of shape parameters P2, a scratch on contact surface 411, and an amount of distortion.

[0152] Specifically, if at least one of the multiple shape parameters P2 is outside the reference range (for example, if condition Z5 is satisfied), if the length Lg of the scratch on the contact surface 411 is equal to or greater than a second length (for example, a reference value Lgx1) (for example, if condition Z6a is satisfied), or if the amount of distortion is equal to or greater than a second threshold value (for example, a reference distortion amount Th2) (for example, if condition Z6b is satisfied), the judgment unit 619 judges that the gasket 40 needs to be replaced.

[0153] Furthermore, if the length Lg of the scratch on the contact surface 411 is less than the second length and the depth Dg of the scratch is equal to or greater than the second depth (e.g., the reference value Dx1) (e.g., if the condition Z7a is satisfied), the judgment unit 619 judges that the gasket 40 needs to be replaced.

[0154] In still another aspect, when the amount of strain in the region where the gasket 40 is fitted into the ring joint groove 310 is equal to or greater than a third threshold value (e.g., a reference strain amount Thx) (e.g., when condition Z8 or condition Z9 is satisfied), the judgment unit 619 judges that at least one of repair of the ring joint groove 310 and replacement of the gasket 40 is necessary.

[0155] In yet another aspect, when the gap Cg in the flange fastener is equal to or greater than the reference value Cx (for example, when condition Z1 is satisfied), the judgment unit 619 judges that an abnormality has occurred in at least one of the ring joint grooves 310 of one flange 30, the other flange 30, and the gasket 40.

[0156] The output control unit 605 outputs advice information to the user based on the determination result of the determination unit 619. Specifically, the output control unit 605 outputs, as advice information, information recommending cutting or polishing the ring joint groove 310 based on the determination result that the ring joint groove 310 is in a state requiring repair. Furthermore, the output control unit 605 outputs, as advice information, information recommending replacement of the gasket 40 based on the determination result that the gasket 40 is in a state requiring replacement. Typically, the output control unit 605 displays on the display 105 the content described above in <Display of advice information>.

[0157] <Advantages> According to this embodiment, the need for repair of the ring joint groove and the need for replacement of the gasket can be appropriately determined based on the condition of the ring joint groove of the flange, the gasket, and the flange fastener, regardless of the worker's technical knowledge and experience. Furthermore, there is no variability in the need for repair or replacement depending on the worker. Furthermore, the advice information allows the worker to efficiently take measures for the flange and the gasket.

[0158] <Other Embodiments> (1) In the above-described embodiments, a program may be provided that causes a computer to function and execute the control described in the above flowchart. Such a program may be recorded on a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium such as a flexible disk, secondary storage device, main storage device, or memory card attached to the computer and provided as a program product. Alternatively, the program may be recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk built into the computer and provided. The program may also be provided by downloading it over a network.

[0159] (2) The configurations exemplified as the above-described embodiments are examples of the configurations of the present invention, and may be combined with other known technologies, or may be modified, such as by omitting some parts, within the scope of the gist of the present invention. Furthermore, the above-described embodiments may be implemented by appropriately adopting the processes and configurations described in other embodiments.

[0160] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

[0161] 10 Evaluation device, 20 Scanner, 30 Flange, 40 Ring joint gasket, 50, 60 Scratches, 101 Processor, 103 Memory, 105 Display, 107 Input device, 109 Input / output interface, 111 Communication interface, 300 Flange surface, 310 Ring joint groove, 601 Data acquisition unit, 603 Evaluation unit, 605 Output control unit, 611 Shape measurement unit, 612 Gap measurement unit, 613 Setting unit, 615 Detection unit, 617 Distortion amount measurement unit, 619 Judgment unit, 1000 Evaluation system.

Claims

1. An evaluation device comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires first three-dimensional shape data of a ring joint type flange; and an evaluation unit that evaluates the condition of a ring joint groove formed in a flange surface of the flange based on the first three-dimensional shape data, wherein the evaluation unit includes: a shape measurement unit that measures a plurality of first shape parameters related to the shape of the ring joint groove; a detection unit that detects scratches that have occurred in a target area of ​​the ring joint groove; a distortion amount measurement unit that measures a first distortion amount of a first contact surface of the ring joint groove that comes into contact with a ring joint gasket; and a determination unit that determines whether or not the ring joint groove needs to be repaired based on at least one of the plurality of first shape parameters, the scratch, and the first distortion amount.

2. The evaluation device according to claim 1, wherein the determination unit determines that the ring joint groove is in a state requiring repair when at least one of the plurality of first shape parameters is outside a reference range, when the length of the flaw is equal to or greater than a first length, when the first distortion amount is equal to or greater than a first threshold value, or when the length of the flaw is less than the first length and the depth of the flaw is equal to or greater than a first depth.

3. The evaluation device according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of first shape parameters include an angle formed between a center line indicating the center of the ring joint groove and the first contact surface, and a width and depth of the ring joint groove.

4. An evaluation device as described in claim 2 or 3, further comprising an output control unit that outputs advice information to a user based on the judgment result of the judgment unit, wherein the output control unit outputs information recommending cutting or polishing of the ring joint groove as the advice information based on the judgment result that the ring joint groove is in a state requiring repair.

5. An evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein when the detection unit detects a first flaw and a second flaw that are close to each other in the target area, the detection unit integrates the first flaw and the second flaw into a single flaw.

6. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the distortion amount measuring unit measures the first distortion amount in the radial direction and the circumferential direction of the flange.

7. An evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the target area is a predetermined area on the first contact surface of the ring joint groove, or the entire area of ​​the first contact surface.

8. The evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the acquisition unit further acquires second three-dimensional shape data of the ring joint gasket, the evaluation unit further evaluates a condition of the ring joint gasket based on the second three-dimensional shape data, the shape measurement unit further measures a plurality of second shape parameters related to the shape of the ring joint gasket, the detection unit further detects scratches on a second contact surface of the ring joint gasket with which the ring joint groove comes into contact, the strain amount measurement unit further measures a second strain amount on the second contact surface, and the determination unit further determines whether or not the ring joint gasket needs to be replaced based on at least one of the plurality of second shape parameters, the scratches on the second contact surface, and the second strain amount.

9. The evaluation device described in claim 8, wherein the judgment unit judges that the ring joint gasket needs to be replaced if at least one of the plurality of second shape parameters is outside a reference range, if the length of the scratch on the second contact surface is equal to or greater than a second length, if the second strain amount is equal to or greater than a second threshold value, or if the length of the scratch on the second contact surface is less than the second length and the depth of the scratch on the second contact surface is equal to or greater than a second depth.

10. The evaluation device according to claim 9, wherein the plurality of second shape parameters include a center diameter, a height, and a width of the ring joint gasket.

11. The evaluation device described in claim 9, wherein the strain amount measuring unit calculates a third strain amount in a region where the ring joint gasket is fitted into the ring joint groove based on the first strain amount and the second strain amount, and when the third strain amount is equal to or greater than a third threshold value, the determination unit determines that at least one of repair of the ring joint groove and replacement of the ring joint gasket is necessary.

12. An evaluation device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the acquisition unit further acquires third three-dimensional shape data of a flange fastening body in which the flange and another flange are fastened via the ring joint gasket, the evaluation unit further includes a gap measurement unit that measures a gap between the flange and the other flange in the flange fastening body based on the third three-dimensional shape data, and when the gap is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the judgment unit judges that an abnormality has occurred in at least one of the ring joint grooves of the flange and the other flange, and the ring joint gasket.

13. An evaluation method comprising: a step in which a processor acquires first three-dimensional shape data of a ring joint type flange; and a step in which the processor evaluates a condition of a ring joint groove formed in a flange surface of the flange based on the first three-dimensional shape data, wherein the evaluating step comprises: measuring a plurality of first shape parameters related to the shape of the ring joint groove; detecting scratches that have occurred in a target area of ​​the ring joint groove; measuring a first distortion amount of a first contact surface of the ring joint groove that comes into contact with a ring joint gasket; and determining whether or not the ring joint groove needs to be repaired based on at least one of the plurality of first shape parameters, the scratches, and the first distortion amount.

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