Water supply information management system, water supply information management device, and water supply information management program

Abstract

The present invention achieves a water supply information management system capable of easily utilizing a linkage relation between a pipeline or an apparatus and a water distribution area for maintenance and management of water supply. A management server 10 of a water supply information management system 1 comprises: an information acquisition unit 31 that acquires, from a calculation terminal 50, at least one of pipeline information D10 related to a pipeline of water supply and apparatus management information D20 related to management of an apparatus provided in the pipeline; an ID management unit 32 that manages, on the basis of a water distribution area including at least one of the pipeline and the apparatus, linkage between the at least one of information and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area; and a storage unit 20 that stores the at least one of information and the water distribution area ID in a linked state.

Description

Water supply information management system, water supply information management device, and water supply information management program

[0001] The present invention relates to a water supply information management system, a water supply information management device, and a water supply information management program.

[0002] Technologies are known in which a plurality of sensors are installed on a water supply pipe network and various measurement data measured by the plurality of sensors is utilized. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a pipeline break detection system that installs a plurality of pressure sensors on a water supply pipe network to detect water leakage. In the pipeline break detection system of Patent Document 1, the numbers of adjacent sensors are stored in the main memory of the sensor. In the pipeline break detection system of Patent Document 1, after pressure wave data is exchanged between adjacent sensors, the pressure wave data at two points is compared by a processor in each sensor to estimate the location of water leakage and the amount of water leakage between the two points. The sensor notifies the management center in the pipeline break detection system of the estimation result.

[0003] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-23483

[0004] By the way, in a water supply pipe network, water distribution is controlled by dividing the water supply range of the entire water supply pipe network into water distribution areas of appropriate sizes. It is desirable that the water distribution areas be set in consideration of natural conditions such as topography and terrain and social conditions so that reasonable and economical facility operation and facility management are possible. That is, the range of the water distribution area is required to be set so that water can be supplied continuously and stably at an appropriate pressure in accordance with fluctuations in demand during normal times. Also, the range of the water distribution area is required to be set so that the impact on water supply is minimized during emergencies.

[0005] The aforementioned water distribution area may be revised due to changes in various conditions. Therefore, a management system that fixes the relationship between sensors and other equipment and the aforementioned water distribution area cannot respond to such changes. Specifically, the relationship with the aforementioned water distribution area may not be adequately managed based solely on the latitude and longitude of the location where the sensors are installed. It is necessary to appropriately manage the relationship with the aforementioned water distribution area not only for equipment but also for pipelines. Furthermore, it is necessary that the information managed in this way can be easily utilized for the maintenance and management of the water supply system.

[0006] Patent Document 1 does not manage the linking of the water distribution area to the sensors. Therefore, Patent Document 1 does not allow for easy utilization of the relationship between the pipelines or equipment within the water distribution area and the water distribution area itself for water supply maintenance and management.

[0007] The objective of this invention is to realize a water supply information management system that can easily utilize the relationship between pipelines or equipment and water distribution areas for the maintenance and management of water supply systems.

[0008] A water supply information management system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a system for managing information related to water supply. The water supply information management system includes a management server and a computing terminal capable of computation and capable of communicating with the management server. The management server includes an information acquisition unit that acquires at least one of the following from the computing terminal: pipeline information, which is information related to water supply pipelines, or equipment management information, which is information related to the management of equipment installed in the pipelines; an ID management unit that manages the association between the at least one of the following information and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the at least one of the pipelines or the equipment is included; and a storage unit that stores the at least one of the following information and the water distribution area ID in an associated state (first configuration).

[0009] In the above configuration, the system manages the association between pipeline information relating to the pipeline and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the pipeline is located. Alternatively, in the above configuration, the system manages the association between equipment management information relating to the management of the equipment and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the equipment is located.

[0010] Therefore, according to the above configuration, the link between the pipeline information or equipment management information and the water distribution area ID can be managed based on the relationship between the pipeline or equipment and the water distribution area.

[0011] This makes it easy to utilize the relationship between pipelines or equipment and water distribution areas for water supply maintenance and management.

[0012] In the first configuration, when the water distribution area is changed, the ID management unit of the management server updates the association between the water distribution area ID and at least one of the pipeline information or the equipment management information, using the water distribution area ID to identify the changed water distribution area (second configuration).

[0013] According to the above configuration, if the water distribution area of ​​a pipeline changes, the pipeline information related to the pipeline can be linked to the changed water distribution area ID. Alternatively, according to the above configuration, if the water distribution area of ​​equipment changes, the equipment management information related to the management of the equipment can be linked to the changed water distribution area ID.

[0014] This ensures that even if the water distribution area for a pipeline or equipment changes, the relationship between the pipeline or equipment and the water distribution area remains up-to-date.

[0015] In the first configuration, at least one of the pipeline information or the equipment management information includes location information. The ID management unit of the management server manages the association between at least one of the information and the water distribution area ID based on the location information (third configuration).

[0016] In the configuration described above, pipeline information and equipment management information can be linked to a water distribution area ID based on their location. This makes it easy to link and manage pipelines or equipment to a water distribution area based on their location.

[0017] In the third configuration, the pipeline information and the equipment management information each include the location information. The management server further has a linking unit that links the pipeline information and the equipment management information based on the location information (fourth configuration).

[0018] In the configuration described above, pipeline information and equipment management information can be linked based on location information. This makes it possible to easily link and manage equipment located around pipelines, such as equipment that affects water distribution control, based on their location information.

[0019] In the fourth configuration, the computing terminal includes an input device and a display device. The computing terminal outputs the pipeline information input by the input device to the management server. The management server has a device management information output unit that reads the device management information associated with the pipeline information output from the computing terminal from the storage unit and outputs it to the computing terminal. The computing terminal plots the device management information output from the management server on a map based on the location information and displays it on the display device (fifth configuration).

[0020] In the configuration described above, the computing terminal displays equipment management information linked to the pipeline information input by the input device on a map. Therefore, users can use the computing terminal to visually understand the equipment management information along with geographical information.

[0021] In the first configuration, the equipment includes a valve provided in the pipeline. The equipment management information includes valve management information, which is information relating to the valve (sixth configuration).

[0022] According to the above configuration, equipment management information, including valve management information, can be linked to the water distribution area ID. Valve information useful for water supply maintenance can be managed in conjunction with the water distribution area. This makes water supply maintenance work more efficient.

[0023] In the sixth configuration, the valve management information records the opening and closing operations of the valve. When the water distribution area is changed due to the opening and closing operations of the valve recorded in the valve management information, the ID management unit of the management server updates the association between the equipment management information, which includes the valve management information, and the water distribution area ID for identifying the changed water distribution area (seventh configuration).

[0024] In the above configuration, even if the water distribution area is changed by opening and closing a valve, the link between the equipment management information, including the valve management information, and the water distribution area ID used to identify the changed water distribution area can be kept up to date.

[0025] This reduces the management effort required to link at least one of the pipeline information or equipment management information with the water distribution area ID when the water distribution area is changed by opening or closing a valve, and enables water distribution control based on the latest water distribution area.

[0026] In any one of the first to sixth configurations, the equipment includes a measuring instrument that performs measurements related to the pipeline. The equipment management information includes measuring instrument information, which is information relating to measurement data from the measuring instrument. The management server further includes an extraction unit that, when the water distribution area is changed, refers to the measuring instrument information and extracts the measuring instrument to be used for fixed-point observation in the changed water distribution area (eighth configuration).

[0027] The above configuration allows for the extraction of measuring instruments to be used for fixed-point observations in the modified water distribution area. Therefore, the workload associated with changing measuring instruments used for fixed-point observations due to changes in the water distribution area can be reduced. Furthermore, it prevents forgetting to change the measuring instruments used for fixed-point observations.

[0028] A water supply information management device according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: an information acquisition unit that acquires at least one of the following: pipeline information, which is information relating to water supply pipelines, and equipment management information, which is information relating to the management of equipment installed in the pipelines; an ID management unit that manages the association between the at least one of the following information and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which at least one of the pipelines or the equipment is included; and a storage unit that stores the at least one of the following information in a state linked to the water distribution area ID (9th configuration).

[0029] In the above configuration, the link between pipeline information relating to the pipeline and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area is managed based on the water distribution area in which the pipeline is located. Alternatively, in the above configuration, the link between the equipment management information relating to the management of the equipment and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area is managed based on the water distribution area in which the equipment is located.

[0030] Therefore, according to the above configuration, the link between the pipeline information or equipment management information and the water distribution area ID can be managed based on the relationship between the pipeline or equipment and the water distribution area.

[0031] This makes it possible to realize a water supply information management system that can easily utilize the relationship between pipelines or equipment and water distribution areas for water supply maintenance and management.

[0032] A water supply information management program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for managing information related to water supply. The water supply information management program causes a computer to perform an information acquisition step of acquiring at least one of the following: pipeline information, which is information related to water supply pipelines, and equipment management information, which is information related to the management of equipment installed in the pipelines; and an ID management step of managing the association between the at least one of the information and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which at least one of the pipelines or the equipment is included. In the ID management step, if the water distribution area is changed, the program updates the association between the at least one of the information and the water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area before and after the change (10th configuration).

[0033] The water supply information management program described above causes the computer to manage the association between pipeline information related to the pipeline and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the pipeline is located. Alternatively, the water supply information management program described above causes the computer to manage the association between equipment management information related to the management of the equipment and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the equipment is located.

[0034] Therefore, the computer on which the above-mentioned water supply information management program operates can manage the linking of the pipeline information or equipment management information with the water distribution area ID based on the relationship between the pipeline or equipment and the water distribution area.

[0035] This makes it possible to create a water supply information management program that can easily utilize the relationship between pipelines or equipment and water distribution areas for water supply maintenance and management.

[0036] A management server for a water supply information management system according to one embodiment of the present invention includes: an information acquisition unit that acquires at least one of the following from a computing terminal: pipeline information, which is information relating to water supply pipelines, or equipment management information, which is information relating to the management of equipment installed in the pipelines; an ID management unit that manages the association between the at least one of the following information and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the pipelines or the equipment are included; and a storage unit that stores the at least one of the following information and the water distribution area ID in an associated state.

[0037] This allows for the management of linkages between pipeline or equipment management information and water distribution area IDs, based on the relationship between pipelines or equipment and water distribution areas. Therefore, the relationship between pipelines or equipment and water distribution areas can be easily utilized for water supply maintenance and management.

[0038] Figure 1 is a functional block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a water supply information management system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the water supply information management method performed by the water supply information management system. Figure 3 is a functional block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a water supply information management system according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the water supply network before a change in the water distribution area. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the water supply network after a change in the water distribution area. Figure 6 is a functional block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a water supply information management system according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the water supply network before the abolition of the water reservoir. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the water supply network after the abolition of the water reservoir. Figure 9 is a functional block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a water supply information management system according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. Figure 10 is an example of a screen displayed on a display device when selecting a pipeline on a computing terminal. Figure 11 is an example of a screen displaying acquired equipment management information on a display device. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the water supply network before and after a change in the water distribution area.

[0039] The following describes each embodiment with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of those parts will not be repeated. Note that the dimensions of the components in each drawing do not faithfully represent the dimensions of the actual components or the dimensional ratios of each component.

[0040] [Embodiment 1] Figure 1 is a functional block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a water supply information management system 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The water supply information management system 1 is a system that manages information related to the maintenance and management of water supply. Referring to Figure 1, the water supply information management system 1 includes a management server 10 and a computing terminal 50.

[0041] The computing terminal 50 is a device capable of performing computing processing and communicating with the management server 10. The computing terminal 50 is, for example, configured by a computer device having a memory and a computing device. The computing terminal 50 may be configured by a desktop PC, or may be configured by a portable terminal such as a notebook PC, a wearable computer, a smartphone or a tablet terminal. The computing terminal 50 may have a display unit, or may be configured to output display data to a display unit in a device external to the computing terminal 50. The computing terminal 50 may have an input unit to which various operations from a user are input.

[0042] The computing terminal 50 is configured to be able to transmit pipeline information D10 which is information regarding a pipeline of a water supply system and device management information D20 regarding management of devices provided in the pipeline to the management server 10.

[0043] The management server 10 is, for example, configured by a computer device having a memory and a computing device. The management server 10 can be configured by one or more computer devices.

[0044] The management server 10 has a storage unit 20, an information acquisition unit 31, and an ID management unit 32.

[0045] The storage unit 20 is, for example, a storage device such as a hard disk, a flash memory or a main memory device. The storage unit 20 stores pipeline information D10, device management information D20, and a water distribution area master D30.

[0046] The pipeline information D10 may include a pipeline ID for specifying a pipeline for maintenance management or hydraulic analysis. The water supply pipe network to be subjected to maintenance management or hydraulic analysis is constituted by a plurality of pipelines being interconnected. The pipeline information D10 may include information regarding nodes such as a branch, a confluence, a connection or a termination of a pipeline. The pipeline may be constituted by a plurality of pipe materials being connected. For this reason, the pipeline information D10 may include a pipe material ID for specifying a plurality of pipe materials constituting the pipeline.

[0047] The devices in the device management information D20 include pumps, valves, various sensors, etc. used for maintenance management. The device management information D20 may include a device ID for identifying the device. The various sensors include measuring instruments such as flow meters, flow velocity meters, pressure gauges, water quality meters, vibration sensors, or leak sensors. The measuring instrument may be a sensor that measures one physical quantity or a sensor that measures a plurality of physical quantities in a composite manner. The device management information D20 may include information regarding maintenance or inspection of the device. The device management information D20 may include measurement data of the various sensors.

[0048] The water distribution area means the range where water is supplied from the water supply source. The water supply source means a water purification plant, a water distribution tank, a water tower, etc. The number of water supply sources may be one or plural. Also, a plurality of water distribution areas may belong to one water distribution area group. Also, the water distribution area may be divided into a plurality of water distribution blocks. The water distribution block may be further divided into middle blocks, and may be hierarchically divided, such as when the middle blocks are further divided into small blocks.

[0049] The water distribution area master D30 stores information regarding the water distribution area and the water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area. The water distribution area ID may be stored in advance or may be acquired from the arithmetic terminal 50.

[0050] The storage unit 20 stores the pipeline information D10, the device management information D20, and the water distribution area ID in an associated state.

[0051] The information acquisition unit 31 acquires the pipeline information D10, which is information regarding the water supply pipeline, and the device management information D20 regarding the management of the devices provided in the pipeline, from the arithmetic terminal 50.

[0052] The ID management unit 32 manages the association between pipeline information D10 and equipment management information D20 and the water distribution area ID, based on the water distribution area in which the pipeline or equipment is included. When the water distribution area is changed, the ID management unit 32 updates the association between pipeline information D10 and equipment management information D20 and the water distribution area ID using the water distribution area ID to identify the changed water distribution area. The timing of the linkage update by the ID management unit 32 may be each time the water distribution area is changed, or it may be at predetermined intervals.

[0053] As described above, the water supply information management system 1 manages the association between pipeline information D10 related to the pipeline and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the pipeline is included. Alternatively, the water supply information management system 1 manages the association between equipment management information D20 related to the management of the equipment and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the equipment is included.

[0054] Therefore, according to the above configuration, the link between pipeline information D10 or equipment management information D20 and the water distribution area ID can be managed based on the relationship between the pipeline or equipment and the water distribution area.

[0055] This enables the realization of a water supply information management system that can easily utilize the relationship between pipelines or equipment and water distribution areas for water supply maintenance and management. Furthermore, the management server of the water supply information management system can be realized as a water supply information management device that manages information related to water supply.

[0056] According to the above configuration, if the water distribution area of ​​a pipeline changes, the pipeline information D10 related to the pipeline can be linked to the changed water distribution area ID. Alternatively, according to the above configuration, if the water distribution area of ​​equipment changes, the equipment management information D20 related to the management of the equipment can be linked to the changed water distribution area ID.

[0057] This ensures that even if the water distribution area for a pipeline or equipment changes, the relationship between the pipeline or equipment and the water distribution area remains up-to-date.

[0058] (Water supply information management method by water supply information management system) Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the water supply information management method performed by the water supply information management system 1. Referring to Figure 2, first, the information acquisition unit 31 of the management server 10 acquires pipeline information D10 and equipment management information D20 from the computing terminal 50 (information acquisition step S1).

[0059] Next, the ID management unit 32 of the management server 10 manages the association between pipeline information D10 and equipment management information D20 and the water distribution area ID (ID management step S2). Specifically, when a water distribution area is changed, the ID management unit 32 updates the association between pipeline information D10 and equipment management information D20 and the water distribution area ID used to identify the water distribution area before and after the change. After that, the flow ends.

[0060] (Water supply information management program) A water supply information management program that causes the management server 10 to execute the information acquisition step S1 and ID management step S2 shown in Figure 2 also falls within the scope of the present invention. By causing the management server 10 to execute the water supply information management program, a water supply information management method and a water supply information management system 1 can be realized. In this case, the management server 10 may be a general-purpose or dedicated computer. The computer is equipped with a processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and memory for storing programs, and the processing unit executes the program read from the memory.

[0061] A water supply information management program according to one embodiment of the present invention is a program for managing information related to water supply. The water supply information management program causes a management server 10, which is a computer, to perform an information acquisition step of acquiring at least one of the following: pipeline information, which is information related to water supply pipelines, and equipment management information, which is information related to the management of equipment installed in the pipelines; and an ID management step of managing the association between the at least one of the information and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area that includes at least one of the pipelines or the equipment. In the ID management step, if the water distribution area is changed, the program updates the association between the at least one of the information and the water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area before and after the change.

[0062] In the water supply information management program described above, the computer manages the association between pipeline information D10 related to the pipeline and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the pipeline is included. Alternatively, the water supply information management program described above manages the association between equipment management information D20 related to the management of the equipment and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the equipment is included.

[0063] Therefore, a management server 10 can be realized on a computer running the aforementioned water supply information management program, which manages the association between pipeline information D10 or equipment management information D20 and the water distribution area ID based on the relationship between the pipeline or equipment and the water distribution area.

[0064] This makes it possible to create a water supply information management program that can easily utilize the relationship between pipelines or equipment and water distribution areas for water supply maintenance and management.

[0065] [Embodiment 2] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the water supply information management system 2 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. The water supply information management system 2 differs from the water supply information management system 1 in that it manages linkages triggered by changes in the water distribution area due to valve opening and closing operations. In the following description, components similar to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0066] The water supply information management system 2 comprises a management server 11 and a computing terminal 50. The management server 11 comprises a storage unit 21, an information acquisition unit 31, an ID management unit 33, and a valve information recording unit 34.

[0067] The equipment management information D20 stored in the memory unit 21 includes valve management information D21. The equipment includes valves installed in the pipeline.

[0068] Valve management information D21 records information about the valve itself, information about the valve's opening and closing operations, and information about the valve's inspection. Information about the valve itself includes, for example, the valve's type, material, dimensions, structure, or manufacturer. Information about the valve's opening and closing operations includes whether the valve is open, closed, or whether it can be opened or closed. Information about the valve's inspection includes the date of past inspections or the inspection items.

[0069] When the water distribution area is changed due to the opening and closing operation of the valve recorded in the valve management information D21, the ID management unit 33 updates the link between the equipment management information D20, which includes the valve management information D21, and the water distribution area ID used to identify the changed water distribution area. Details of the linking update process by the ID management unit 33 will be described later.

[0070] The valve information recording unit 34 obtains information regarding opening and closing operations of the valve, for example, from the valve, and records it in the valve management information D21 of the storage unit 21. The valve information recording unit 34 may be configured to communicate with the valve via wired or wireless communication. The valve information recording unit 34 may obtain information regarding opening and closing operations of the valve from the valve via communication. Alternatively, the valve information recording unit 34 may obtain information regarding opening and closing operations of the valve from an operator terminal held by the operator operating the valve. The operator terminal may be a computing terminal 50.

[0071] (Linking Update Process) Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the water pipe network WP1 before the change in the water distribution area. Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the water pipe network WP1 after the change in the water distribution area. The details of the linking update process by the ID management unit 33 will be explained with reference to Figures 4 and 5.

[0072] In the water pipe network WP1 before the change in the water distribution area shown in Figure 4, water is supplied from the water treatment plant WS1 to the water reservoirs WS11 and WS12. The water distribution area DZ11 is the area where water is supplied using water reservoir WS11 as the water source. The water distribution area DZ12 is the area where water is supplied using water reservoir WS12 as the water source.

[0073] The water distribution area DZ11 includes the central blocks BL11 and BL12. The central blocks BL11 and BL12 are composed of multiple pipelines. The central blocks BL11 and BL12 are connected via valve BU1. Valve BU1 is configured to be openable and closable, and in the water pipeline network WP1 shown in Figure 4, it is in the open state. Therefore, in the water pipeline network WP1 shown in Figure 4, water can be supplied from central block BL11 to central block BL12 via valve BU1.

[0074] The central block BL11 is equipped with measuring instrument SN11, which is a flow meter, pressure meter, or water quality meter, and measuring instrument SN21, which is a flow meter. The pipeline PI12 of the central block BL12 is equipped with measuring instrument SN12. Measuring instrument SN12 measures the flow velocity, pressure, or water quality in pipeline PI12.

[0075] The water distribution area DZ12 includes the central block BL13. The central block BL13 is also composed of multiple pipelines. The central block BL13 is connected to the central block BL12 via valve BU2. Valve BU2 is configured to be openable and closable, and in the water pipe network WP1 shown in Figure 4, it is in the closed state. Therefore, in the water pipe network WP1 shown in Figure 4, the central block BL12 and the central block BL13 are separated by the closed valve BU2.

[0076] The central block BL13 is equipped with measuring instrument SN13, which is a flow meter, pressure gauge, or water quality meter, and measuring instrument SN22, which is a flow meter. Measuring instrument SN13 is installed in the pipeline PI13.

[0077] From another perspective, it can be said that the closed valve BU2 separates the water distribution area DZ11 from the water distribution area DZ12.

[0078] In the memory unit 20, measuring instruments SN11, SN12, SN21, valve BU1, and pipeline PI12 are linked to water distribution area DZ11 (water distribution area ID = DZ11). In addition, in the memory unit 20, measuring instruments SN13, SN22, valve BU2, and pipeline PI13 are linked to water distribution area DZ12 (water distribution area ID = DZ12). Valve BU2, located at the boundary between the two water distribution areas, may be linked to both water distribution areas DZ11 and DZ12. Valve BU2 may also be linked to water distribution area DZ11. Furthermore, valves BU1 and BU2 may each be linked to the central block in which they are located.

[0079] Furthermore, the medium blocks BL11, BL12, and BL13 may contain small blocks. Also, medium blocks BL11 and BL12 may be contained within a single large block.

[0080] In the water pipe network WP1 shown in Figure 4, by closing valve BU1 between middle block BL11 and middle block BL12, and opening valve BU2 between middle block BL12 and middle block BL13, the water distribution area changes as shown in Figure 5.

[0081] In other words, the revised water distribution area DZ21 includes only the central block BL11, and the revised water distribution area DZ22 includes central blocks BL12 and BL13. Note that central blocks BL12 and BL13 may constitute a single large block in accordance with the above-mentioned changes in the water distribution area.

[0082] The valve information recording unit 34 records information regarding the opening and closing operations of valves BU1 and BU2 in valve management information D21.

[0083] The ID management unit 33 updates the associations in the memory unit 21 in accordance with the change in water distribution areas DZ11 and DZ12 to water distribution areas DZ21 and DZ22 due to the opening and closing of the valves. Specifically, the ID management unit 33 associates the measuring instrument SN12 and pipeline PI12, which were originally associated with water distribution area DZ11, with the changed water distribution area DZ22. The ID management unit 33 also associates the valve BU2 located in the changed water distribution area DZ22 with the changed water distribution area DZ22. The ID management unit 33 may also associate the valve BU1 located at the boundary between water distribution area DZ21 and the changed water distribution area DZ22 with water distribution area DZ21. Alternatively, the ID management unit 33 may associate the valve BU1 with both water distribution area DZ21 and the changed water distribution area DZ22.

[0084] As described above, in the above configuration, the equipment includes a valve provided in the pipeline. The equipment management information includes valve management information, which is information relating to the valve.

[0085] According to the above configuration, equipment management information D20, including valve management information D21, can be linked to the water distribution area ID. Valve information useful for water supply maintenance can be managed in conjunction with the water distribution area. This makes maintenance work more efficient.

[0086] Furthermore, with the above configuration, even if the water distribution area is changed by opening and closing a valve, the link between the equipment management information D20, which includes the valve management information D21, and the water distribution area ID used to identify the changed water distribution area can be kept up to date.

[0087] When the water distribution area changes due to valve opening and closing operations, the effort required to link the equipment management information D20 with the water distribution area ID can be reduced, and water distribution control based on the latest water distribution area becomes possible.

[0088] [Embodiment 3] Figure 6 is a functional block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the water supply information management system 3 according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. The water supply information management system 3 differs from the water supply information management system 1 in that it extracts the optimal measuring instrument for fixed-point observation in response to changes in the water distribution area. In the following description, components similar to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0089] The water supply information management system 3 comprises a management server 12 and a computing terminal 50. The management server 12 comprises a storage unit 22, an information acquisition unit 31, an ID management unit 32, and an extraction unit 35.

[0090] The memory unit 22 stores pipeline information D10, equipment management information D20, water distribution area master D30, and analysis target information D40.

[0091] The aforementioned equipment includes measuring instruments that perform measurements related to the pipeline. Equipment management information D20 includes measuring instrument information D22.

[0092] The instrument information D22 is information relating to the measurement data of the instrument.

[0093] Analysis target information D40 is information about the measuring instruments used in hydraulic analysis. Analysis target information D40 is linked to the water distribution area ID.

[0094] When the water distribution area is changed, the extraction unit 35 refers to the measuring instrument information D22 and extracts the measuring instruments to be used for fixed-point observation in the changed water distribution area. Details of the extraction process by the extraction unit 35 will be described later.

[0095] (Extraction process of measuring instruments) Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the water pipe network WP2 before the decommissioning of the water reservoir WS22. Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the water pipe network WP2 after the decommissioning of the water reservoir WS22. Referring to Figures 7 and 8, the details of the extraction process by the extraction unit 35 will be explained. The water distribution area DZ21 is the area where water is supplied using the water reservoir WS21 as the water source. The water distribution area DZ22 is the area where water is supplied using the water reservoir WS22 as the water source.

[0096] In the water pipeline network WP2 before the decommissioning of water reservoir WS22, as shown in Figure 7, water is supplied from the water treatment plant WS2 to water reservoirs WS21 and WS22.

[0097] The water distribution area DZ21 includes the central block BL21. The central block BL21 is equipped with measuring instrument SN31, which is a flow meter, pressure meter, or water quality meter, and measuring instrument SN41, which is a flow meter. Measuring instrument SN31 measures the amount of water flowing from the water distribution reservoir WS21 into the central block BL21.

[0098] The water distribution area DZ22 includes the central block BL22. The central block BL22 is equipped with measuring instruments SN32, which is a flow meter, pressure meter, or water quality meter, and measuring instruments SN42 and SN45, which are flow meters. Measuring instrument SN42 measures the amount of water flowing from the water reservoir WS22 into the central block BL22. Measuring instrument SN45 is located between the central blocks BL21 and BL22.

[0099] Intermediate blocks BL21 and BL22 are connected via valve BU35. Valve BU35 is configured to be openable and closable, and in the water pipe network WP2 shown in Figure 7, it is in the closed state. Therefore, in the water pipe network WP2 shown in Figure 7, intermediate blocks BL21 and BL22 are separated by the closed valve BU35.

[0100] The hydraulic analysis is performed based on measurement data in each of the water distribution areas DZ21 and DZ22. Specifically, measuring instruments SN31 and SN41 are used for fixed-point observation in water distribution area DZ21. Measuring instruments SN32 and SN42 are used for fixed-point observation in water distribution area DZ22. For this reason, in the analysis target information D40, water distribution area DZ21 is linked to measuring instruments SN31 and SN41, and water distribution area DZ22 is linked to measuring instruments SN32 and SN42. Valve BU35, located at the boundary between water distribution areas DZ21 and DZ22, may be linked to both water distribution areas DZ21 and DZ22, as described above. Furthermore, valve BU35 may be linked to both the middle block BL21 included in water distribution area DZ21 and the middle block BL22 included in water distribution area DZ22.

[0101] As mentioned above, the middle blocks BL21 and BL22 are separated by the closed valve BU35, and there is no water flow. Therefore, the measuring instrument SN45, which is linked to water distribution area DZ22, is not affected by the hydraulic conditions of water distribution area DZ21. Consequently, the measurement data from measuring instrument SN45 is not used for the hydraulic analysis of water distribution area DZ21. For this reason, measuring instrument SN45 is not linked to water distribution area DZ21. On the other hand, measuring instrument SN45 belongs to water distribution area DZ21 and is therefore linked to water distribution area DZ22.

[0102] As mentioned above, the flow is blocked by the closed valve BU35, and normally the flow rate at the measuring instrument SN45 is approximately zero. However, if a leak occurs downstream of the measuring instrument SN45, the flow rate will be greater than zero. For this reason, the measurement data from the measuring instrument SN45 is subject to processing and monitoring in hydraulic analysis.

[0103] In the water pipe network WP2 shown in Figure 7, if the distribution reservoir WS22 is abolished and the distribution to the central block BL22 is changed to be from the distribution reservoir WS21, the following explanation will be given with reference to Figure 8.

[0104] By operating valve BU35 to the open position, water can be supplied from middle block BL21 to middle block BL22.

[0105] Consequently, the water distribution area will change. The revised water distribution area DZ211 will include central blocks BL21 and BL22.

[0106] As described above, the extraction unit 35, in response to the change in the water distribution area, refers to the instrument information D22 to extract the instruments to be used for fixed-point observation in the changed water distribution area DZ211 and updates the analysis target information D40. In the changed water distribution area DZ211, in addition to the instruments SN31 and SN41 of the central block BL21, it is determined whether or not it is necessary to link them with the instruments SN32, SN42 and SN45 of the central block BL22.

[0107] At the location of measuring instrument SN45, water is supplied from the middle block BL21 to the middle block BL22, so the extraction unit 35 decides to associate measuring instrument SN45 with the water distribution area DZ211. At the location of measuring instrument SN32, the water flow reaches via valve BU35, so the extraction unit 35 decides to associate measuring instrument SN32 with the water distribution area DZ211. The extraction unit 35 may exclude measuring instrument SN42, which is located at a position where the inflow of water from the water reservoir WS22 is interrupted, from being associated with the water distribution area DZ211. Alternatively, the extraction unit 35 may associate measuring instrument SN42 with the water distribution area DZ211.

[0108] As a result, the extraction unit 35 associates the water distribution area DZ211 with the measuring instruments SN31, SN32, SN41, and SN45 in the analysis target information D40.

[0109] The above configuration allows for the extraction of measuring instruments to be used for fixed-point observations in the modified water distribution area. Therefore, the workload associated with changing measuring instruments used for fixed-point observations due to changes in the water distribution area can be reduced. Furthermore, it prevents forgetting to change the measuring instruments used for fixed-point observations.

[0110] [Embodiment 4] Figure 9 is a functional block diagram showing the schematic configuration of a water supply information management system 4 according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. The water supply information management system 4 differs from the water supply information management system 1 in that it manages pipeline information, equipment management information, and water distribution area IDs based on location information. In the following description, components similar to those in Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0111] The water supply information management system 4 includes a management server 13 and a computing terminal 55.

[0112] The management server 13 includes a storage unit 23, an information acquisition unit 31, an ID management unit 36, a linking unit 37, and a device management information output unit 38.

[0113] The memory unit 23 stores pipeline information D10, equipment management information D20, and water distribution area master D30.

[0114] Pipeline information D10 includes location information of the pipeline. Equipment management information D20 includes the valve management information and measuring instrument information mentioned above, as well as location information of the equipment. Pipelines are identified by pipeline IDs. Equipment is identified by equipment IDs. Water distribution area master D30 includes area information for identifying the extent of the water distribution area. The location information of pipelines and equipment can be represented by geographical longitude and latitude, respectively. Furthermore, the water distribution area can be represented as a set of geographical longitudes and latitudes.

[0115] The ID management unit 36 ​​manages the association between pipeline information D10 and water distribution area IDs based on the location information contained in pipeline information D10. The ID management unit 36 ​​also manages the association between equipment management information D20 and water distribution area IDs based on the location information contained in equipment management information D20. For example, the ID management unit 36 ​​determines whether a pipeline or equipment is located within a water distribution area based on location information and area information. Based on the determination result, the ID management unit 36 ​​links the water distribution area ID of the water distribution area where the pipeline or equipment is located with the pipeline information D10 or equipment management information D20.

[0116] The linking unit 37 links the pipeline information D10 and the equipment management information D20 based on location information. For example, the linking unit 37 can link the pipeline information D10 and the equipment management information D20 when the pipeline and equipment are located at a predetermined distance from each other.

[0117] The equipment management information output unit 38 reads the equipment management information D20, which is linked to the pipeline information D10 output from the computing terminal 55, from the storage unit 23 and outputs it to the computing terminal 55.

[0118] The computing terminal 55 plots and displays pipeline information D10 and equipment management information D20 on a map represented by map information. The computing terminal 55 has an input device 56 and a display device 57. The computing terminal 55 may obtain the map information from the management server 13 or from a server that provides map services on the Web.

[0119] The input device 56 receives pipeline information D10 for pipelines corresponding to the equipment management information D20 requested by the user. The computing terminal 55 outputs the pipeline information D10 received by the input device 56 to the management server 13.

[0120] The display device 57 plots and displays the device management information D20 output from the device management information output unit 38 of the management server 13 on the map based on the location information. The input device 56 and the display device 57 may be configured as a single touch panel.

[0121] (Flow of display of equipment management information) Figure 10 is an example of a screen displayed on the display device 57 when a pipeline is selected on the computing terminal 55. Figure 11 is an example of a screen that displays the acquired equipment management information D20 on the display device 57.

[0122] Referring to Figure 10, the storage unit 23 of the management server 13 stores, for example, pipeline information D10, which includes pipeline IDs "PID1", "PID2", and "PID3". Pipeline ID "PID1" is associated with equipment IDs "AID11" and "AID12". Pipeline ID "PID2" is associated with equipment ID "AID2". Pipeline ID "PID3" is associated with equipment ID "AID3". The water distribution area ID "DZ1" is associated with this pipeline information D10 and equipment management information D20.

[0123] The computing terminal 55 obtains pipeline information D10 from the management server 13 and displays the pipeline information D10 along with the map information on the display device 57. The computing terminal 55 causes the display device 57 to display the pipeline information D10, including the pipeline IDs "PID1", "PID2", and "PID3".

[0124] When a user selects pipeline IDs "PID1" and "PID2" on the display device 57 screen using the input device 56, the computing terminal 55 sends a request to the management server 13 to transmit equipment management information D20 corresponding to pipeline IDs "PID1" and "PID2".

[0125] In response, the equipment management information output unit 38 (see Figure 9) of the management server 13 transmits the equipment management information D20 for equipment IDs "AID11", "AID12", and "AID2", which are associated with pipeline IDs "PID1" and "PID2", to the computing terminal 55.

[0126] Referring to Figure 11, the computing terminal 55 plots the device management information D20 for device IDs "AID11", "AID12", and "AID2" transmitted from the management server 13 on a map based on location information and displays it on the display device 57. If the devices with device IDs "AID11" and "AID2" are measuring instruments, the computing terminal 55 displays at the location where each device is located whether the measurement data is within an appropriate range, along with the measurement data such as water pressure or flow velocity. If device ID "AID12" is a valve, the computing terminal 55 displays the open / closed status of the valve and information regarding valve inspection at the location where the valve is located.

[0127] In the above configuration, pipeline information D10 and equipment management information D20 can be linked to the water distribution area ID based on their location information. This makes it easy to link pipelines or equipment to the water distribution area and manage them based on their location information.

[0128] Furthermore, in the above configuration, pipeline information D10 and equipment management information D20 can be linked based on location information. This makes it possible to easily link and manage equipment located around pipelines that may affect water distribution control, based on location information.

[0129] Furthermore, in the above configuration, the computing terminal 55 displays the equipment management information D20 linked to the selected pipeline information D10 on a map. Therefore, the user can use the computing terminal 55 to visually grasp the equipment management information D20 along with geographical information.

[0130] [Other Embodiments] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the embodiments described above are merely examples for carrying out the present invention. Therefore, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and it is possible to carry out the invention by appropriately modifying the embodiments described above without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0131] In each of the above embodiments, the computing terminals 50 and 55 are configured to transmit both pipeline information D10 and equipment management information D20 to the management servers 10, 11, 12, and 13. However, the computing terminals may be configured to transmit at least one of the pipeline information or the equipment management information to the management server. The management server may store at least one of the pipeline information or the equipment management information in its storage unit.

[0132] Although not immediately described in the embodiments above, the management server may calibrate the analysis model for hydraulic analysis based on the measurement data from the measuring instruments. For example, if there is a discrepancy between the set values ​​for water pressure, flow velocity, or flow rate planned at the time of initial installation and the measurement data at the time of actual measurement, the management server may update the set values ​​based on the measurement data at the time of actual measurement.

[0133] Furthermore, the management server may perform simulations based on the measurement data from the actual measurement to determine whether the hydraulic conditions are appropriate. If the hydraulic conditions are not appropriate, the management server may propose countermeasures. If the water usage or water pressure is excessive based on the measurement data from the actual measurement, the management server may propose reducing the diameter of the pipeline to the extent that the necessary hydraulic conditions are met. Also, if the hydraulic conditions are not appropriate, the management server may propose changes to the water distribution system or reservoir to ensure that the necessary hydraulic conditions are met. In addition, if pipe cleaning work is performed, the management server may use an analysis model to evaluate whether the water pressure or flow velocity has improved after the work is completed.

[0134] The management server may also perform simulations of changing the water distribution route by opening and closing valves, and determine whether the necessary hydraulic conditions are met after the change in the water distribution route.

[0135] In the above embodiment 2, etc., a water distribution area ID is assigned to each water distribution area. However, the ID may also be assigned to each sub-block included in the water distribution area.

[0136] In the above embodiment 4, the computing terminal 55 displays pipeline information D10 on the display device 57 along with map information and allows the user to select from it. However, the computing terminal may plot a portion of the equipment management information on the map along with the pipeline information and allow the user to select a pipeline or equipment. The management server may transmit equipment management information relating to the pipeline or equipment selected by the user to the computing terminal.

[0137] In the above embodiment 4, the linking unit 37 links the pipeline information D10 and the equipment management information D20 based on the location information. However, the linking unit may also link the pipeline information and the equipment management information according to the linking range defined for the equipment. Figure 12 is a schematic diagram showing the state of the water pipe network WP41 and WP42 before and after the change of the water distribution area. Referring to Figure 12, the process of linking pipeline information and equipment management information according to the linking range defined for the equipment will be explained.

[0138] The water pipe network WP41 before the change includes the central block BL41 and central block BL42. The water distribution area DZ41 includes central block BL41. Central block BL41 includes pipes with pipe IDs "PID41", "PID42", and "PID43". Pipes with pipe IDs "PID41", "PID42", "PID43", and "PID44" are connected to each other at one end. A leak sensor SID41 with equipment ID "SID41" is installed at the connection point of pipes with pipe IDs "PID41", "PID42", "PID43", and "PID44".

[0139] The leak sensor SID41 can, for example, detect leaks in pipelines within a predetermined circular area centered on the leak sensor SID41. Therefore, the leak sensor SID41 can detect leaks in consecutive pipelines within the same water distribution area. For this reason, the equipment management information D20 for equipment ID "SID41" is linked to the pipeline information D10 for pipeline IDs "PID41", "PID42", "PID43", and "PID44". On the other hand, pipeline PID45 for pipeline ID "PID45" is located in a different water distribution area than the leak sensor SID41, and is therefore not linked to the leak sensor SID41.

[0140] Water distribution area DZ42 includes central block BL42. Central block BL42 includes pipeline PID45 with pipeline ID "PID45". One end of pipeline PID45 in central block BL42 is connected to the other end of pipeline PID44 in central block BL41. A valve with equipment ID "BU42" is installed between pipelines PID44 and PID45. The valve with equipment ID "BU42" is in the closed state.

[0141] In the water pipe network WP41 before the change, if the valve with equipment ID "BU42" is changed to the open state, then in the water pipe network WP42 after the change, water distribution areas DZ41 and DZ42 are merged. In the water pipe network WP42 after the change, for example, pipeline PID45 with pipeline ID "PID45" and the leak sensor with equipment ID "SID41" are linked to water distribution area DZ411, which is obtained by merging water distribution areas DZ41 and DZ42. Therefore, in accordance with the above-mentioned change in the water distribution area, the linking unit further links the equipment management information D20 of equipment ID "SID41" to the pipeline information D10 of pipeline ID "PID45".

[0142] This invention can be used in a water supply information management system that manages information related to water supply.

[0143] 1, 2, 3, 4 Water supply information management system 10, 11, 12, 13 Management server 20, 21, 22, 23 Storage unit 31 Information acquisition unit 32, 33, 36 ID management unit 34 Valve information recording unit 35 Extraction unit 37 Linking unit 38 Equipment management information output unit 50, 55 Calculation terminal 56 Input device 57 Display device D10 Pipeline information D20 Equipment management information D21 Valve management information D22 Measuring instrument information D30 Water distribution area master D40 Information to be analyzed

Claims

1. A water supply information management system for managing information related to water supply, comprising: a management server; a computing terminal capable of computation and capable of communicating with the management server, wherein the management server comprises: an information acquisition unit that acquires at least one of the following from the computing terminal: pipeline information, which is information related to water supply pipelines, or equipment management information, which is information related to the management of equipment installed in the pipelines; an ID management unit that manages the association between the at least one of the following information and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which the at least one of the pipelines or the equipment is included; and a storage unit that stores the at least one of the following information and the water distribution area ID in an associated state.

2. A water supply information management system according to claim 1, wherein the ID management unit of the management server updates the association between the information of at least one of the pipeline information or the equipment management information and the water supply area ID when the water supply area is changed, using the water supply area ID for identifying the changed water supply area.

3. A water supply information management system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the pipeline information or the equipment management information includes location information, and the ID management unit of the management server manages the association between at least one of the information and the water distribution area ID based on the location information.

4. A water supply information management system according to claim 3, wherein the pipeline information and the equipment management information each include the location information, and the management server further has a linking unit that links the pipeline information and the equipment management information based on the location information.

5. A water supply information management system according to claim 4, wherein the computing terminal comprises an input device and a display device, outputs the pipeline information input by the input device to the management server, the management server comprises an equipment management information output unit that reads the equipment management information associated with the pipeline information output from the computing terminal from the storage unit and outputs it to the computing terminal, and the computing terminal plots the equipment management information output from the management server on a map based on the location information and displays it on the display device.

6. A water supply information management system according to claim 1, wherein the equipment includes a valve provided in the pipeline, and the equipment management information includes valve management information which is information relating to the valve.

7. A water supply information management system according to claim 6, wherein the valve management information records the opening and closing operations of the valve, and the ID management unit of the management server updates the association between the equipment management information, which includes the valve management information, and the water distribution area ID for identifying the changed water distribution area when the water distribution area is changed by the opening and closing operations of the valve recorded in the valve management information.

8. A water supply information management system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the equipment includes a measuring instrument that performs measurements relating to the pipeline, the equipment management information includes measuring instrument information which is information relating to measurement data from the measuring instrument, and the management server further includes an extraction unit that, when the water distribution area is changed, refers to the measuring instrument information and extracts the measuring instrument to be used for fixed-point observation in the changed water distribution area.

9. A water supply information management device comprising: an information acquisition unit that acquires at least one of the following: pipeline information, which is information relating to water supply pipelines, and equipment management information, which is information relating to the management of equipment installed in the pipelines; an ID management unit that manages the association between the at least one of the following information and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which at least one of the pipelines or the equipment is included; and a storage unit that stores the at least one of the following information in association with the water distribution area ID.

10. A water supply information management program for managing information relating to water supply, the program comprising: an information acquisition step of acquiring at least one of the following information: pipeline information, which is information relating to water supply pipelines, and equipment management information, which is information relating to the management of equipment installed in the pipelines; and an ID management step of managing the association between the at least one of the information and a water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area, based on the water distribution area in which at least one of the pipelines or the equipment is included, wherein the ID management step updates the association between the at least one of the information and the water distribution area ID for identifying the water distribution area before and after the change if the water distribution area is changed.

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