JP2001041796A - Self-diagnostic device of gas meter - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a self-diagnostic device of gas meter capable of detecting an abnormal state generated within a gas meter. SOLUTION: This device is formed of a flow rate measuring means 21 arranged within a gas passage to measure a gas flow rate, a flow section determining means 23-1 for determining a flow section on the basis of the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means 21, a pressure measuring means 22 arranged in the meter outlet part 20 of a gas meter to measure the gas pressure in the meter outlet, a control means 23 for starting the pressure measuring means 22, a proper pressure determining means 23-2 for comparing the proper pressure value corresponding to a specified flow section determined by the flow section determining means 23-1 with the pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means 22 to determine whether the meter outlet pressure is the proper pressure or not, and an alarm means 25 for performing an alarm processing when the meter outlet pressure is determined to be not the proper pressure by the proper pressure determining means 23-2.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a self-diagnosis device for a gas meter.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, as a function of a gas meter, although a pressure monitoring function of a gas flow path is mounted, a main function is a gas leak monitoring, an adjustment pressure monitoring, and a closing pressure monitoring.
The main purpose is to confirm the safety of the gas supply system. At present, it can be said that a self-diagnosis device that monitors an abnormality of the gas meter itself is not mounted.

[0003]

When an abnormality occurs inside the gas meter, the abnormal portion becomes a wall, causing pressure fluctuation, and the difference between the meter inlet pressure and the outlet pressure increases (increase in pressure loss). It is. However, since the conventional gas meter monitors the pressure at the inlet of the meter because it wants to monitor the outlet pressure of the pressure regulator installed on the upstream side, it is possible to capture the pressure change occurring at the outlet of the meter. However, there is a problem that an abnormal situation occurring inside the gas meter cannot be detected.

[0004] In addition, in terms of security, there is a possibility that a situation in which the flow rate should be shut off may not occur due to the occurrence of the abnormal measurement state.

An object of the present invention is to provide a gas meter self-diagnosis device capable of detecting an abnormal state occurring inside the gas meter.

[0006]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of the above object, a self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to the present invention is arranged in a gas flow path as shown in a functional block diagram of FIG. A flow rate measuring means 21 for measuring a flow rate, a flow rate determining means 23-1 for determining a flow rate category based on a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means 21, and a meter outlet section 20 of a gas meter, Pressure measuring means 22 for measuring gas pressure, control means 23 for activating the pressure measuring means 22, an appropriate pressure value corresponding to a specific flow rate section determined by the flow rate determining means 23-1, and the pressure measurement The appropriate pressure determining means 23-2, which compares the pressure detection signal from the means 22 to determine whether or not the meter outlet pressure is an appropriate pressure, and the appropriate pressure determining means 23- By when the meter outlet pressure is determined not in the proper pressure, characterized in that it comprises from the alarm means 25 (and 26) for performing a warning process.

[0007] In the first aspect of the present invention, the flow rate measuring means 21 is arranged in the gas flow path and measures the gas flow rate. The flow rate classification determining means 23-1 determines the flow rate classification based on the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means 21. The pressure measuring means 22 is disposed at the meter outlet 20 of the gas meter, and measures the gas pressure at the meter outlet. The control unit 23 activates the pressure measurement unit 22. The appropriate pressure determining means 23-2 compares the appropriate pressure value corresponding to the specific flow rate category determined by the flow rate category determining means 23-1 with the pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means 22, and determines that the meter outlet pressure is It is determined whether the pressure is appropriate. Warning means 2
5 (and 26) performs an alarm process when the appropriate pressure determination means 23-2 determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at the appropriate pressure.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 2, in the gas meter self-diagnosis apparatus according to the first aspect, the appropriate pressure judging means 23-2 changes the meter outlet pressure to an appropriate pressure. Counting means 23-3 for counting the number of times determined not to have occurred, and alarm determining means 23-4 for detecting that the number of times counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined number, The warning means 25 (and 26) performs a warning process when the warning determination means 23-4 detects that the number counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined determination number. I do.

In the invention described in claim 2, the counting means 23-3 counts the number of times that the appropriate pressure determining means 23-2 determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at the appropriate pressure. The alarm determination unit 23-4 detects that the number counted by the counting unit has reached a predetermined number. The warning means 25 (and 26) performs a warning process when the warning determination means 23-4 detects that the number counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined determination number.

The self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to the third aspect of the present invention, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG.
Pressure measuring means 22 arranged at the meter outlet 20 of the gas meter and measuring gas pressure at the meter outlet;
A control means 23 for calculating an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measurement means 21 and activating the pressure measurement means 22; an appropriate pressure value calculated by the control means and the pressure measurement means 22; From the pressure detection signal from the controller to determine whether or not the meter outlet pressure is at an appropriate pressure. And an alarming means 25 (and 26) for performing an alarming process when it is determined that the condition is not satisfied.

In the third aspect of the present invention, the flow rate measuring means 21 is disposed in the gas flow path and measures a gas flow rate. The pressure measuring means 22 is provided at the meter outlet 2 of the gas meter.
0 and measures the gas pressure at the meter outlet. The control means 23 calculates an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measurement means 21 and activates the pressure measurement means 22. The appropriate pressure determining means 23-2 compares the appropriate pressure value calculated by the control means with the pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means 22 to determine whether or not the meter outlet pressure is at the appropriate pressure. The alarm means 25 (and 26) is provided when the appropriate pressure determining means 23-2 determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at the appropriate pressure.
Perform alarm processing.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 4, in the self-diagnosis apparatus for a gas meter according to the third aspect, the meter outlet pressure is set to an appropriate pressure by the appropriate pressure determining means 23-2. Counting means 23-3 for counting the number of times determined not to have occurred, and alarm determining means 23-4 for detecting that the number of times counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined number, The alarm unit 25 (and 26) performs an alarm process when the alarm determining unit 23-4 detects that the number counted by the counting unit has reached a predetermined number. .

In the invention described in claim 4, the counting means 23-3 counts the number of times that the appropriate pressure determining means 23-2 determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at the appropriate pressure. The alarm determination unit 23-4 detects that the number counted by the counting unit has reached a predetermined number. The alarm unit 25 (and 26) performs an alarm process when the alarm determining unit 23-4 detects that the number counted by the counting unit has reached a predetermined number.

The self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to the present invention, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 5, is disposed in a gas flow path and measures a gas flow rate.
A flow rate determining means 23-1 for determining a flow rate category based on a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means 21; and a pressure measuring means disposed at a meter outlet 20 of a gas meter and measuring gas pressure at a meter outlet. 22, a control means 23 for activating the pressure measurement means 22, a flow detection signal from the flow measurement means during a certain learning period, and a pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement means corresponding to the flow detection signal. Learning data storage means 24-1 for storing the learning data as learning data, and learning data analysis means 2 for analyzing the learning data stored in the learning data storage means 24-1.
3-5, an appropriate outlet pressure setting means 23-6 for setting an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the flow rate section based on the analysis result of the learning data analyzing means 23-5, and a flow rate section determining means 23-1. An outlet pressure determining unit 23 that compares the determined appropriate pressure value corresponding to the specific flow rate section with the pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring unit 22 to determine whether the meter outlet pressure is at an appropriate pressure. -7, and an alarm means 25 (and 26) for performing an alarm process when the outlet pressure judgment means 23-7 judges that the meter outlet pressure is not at an appropriate pressure.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the flow rate measuring means 21 is disposed in the gas flow path and measures the gas flow rate. The flow rate classification determining means 23-1 determines the flow rate classification based on the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means 21. The pressure measuring means 22 is disposed at the meter outlet 20 of the gas meter, and measures the gas pressure at the meter outlet. The control unit 23 activates the pressure measurement unit 22. The learning data storage means 24-1 stores, as learning data, a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measurement means and a pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement means corresponding to the flow rate detection signal during a fixed learning period. The learning data analysis unit 23-5 analyzes the learning data stored in the learning data storage unit 24-1.
The appropriate outlet pressure setting means 23-6 sets an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the flow rate category based on the analysis result of the learning data analysis means 23-5. The outlet pressure determining means 23-7 compares the appropriate pressure value corresponding to the specific flow rate category determined by the flow rate category determining means 23-1 with the pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means 22, and determines whether the meter outlet pressure is It is determined whether the pressure is appropriate. Alarm means 25 (and 26)
Performs an alarm process when the outlet pressure determining means 23-2 determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at an appropriate pressure.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG. 6, in the gas meter self-diagnosis apparatus according to the fifth aspect, the appropriate pressure judging means 23-2 changes the meter outlet pressure to an appropriate pressure. Counting means 23-3 for counting the number of times determined not to have occurred, and alarm determining means 23-4 for detecting that the number of times counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined number, The warning means 25 (and 26) performs a warning process when the warning determination means 23-4 detects that the number counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined determination number. I do.

In the invention described in claim 6, the counting means 23-3 counts the number of times that the appropriate pressure determining means 23-2 determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at the appropriate pressure. The alarm determination unit 23-4 detects that the number counted by the counting unit has reached a predetermined number. The warning means 25 (and 26) performs a warning process when the warning determination means 23-4 detects that the number of determinations counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined number.

The self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to the present invention, as shown in the functional block diagrams of FIGS. 7 and 8, is disposed in a gas flow path and measures a gas flow rate. Flow rate determining means 23 for determining a flow rate category based on a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means 21
-1 and pressure measuring means 22 arranged at the meter outlet 20 of the gas meter and measuring the gas pressure at the meter outlet.
Control means 23 for activating the pressure measuring means 22;
During a certain learning period, a learning data storage unit 24-1 for storing a flow detection signal from the flow measurement unit and a pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement unit corresponding to the flow detection signal as learning data, Learning data storage means 24
Learning data analysis means 23-5 for analyzing the learning data stored in -1 and learning data analysis means 23-5.
A proper outlet pressure setting means 23-6 for setting an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the flow rate section based on the analysis result of the above, and an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the specific flow rate section determined by the flow rate determining means 23-1. And a pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means 22 to determine whether or not the meter outlet pressure is at an appropriate pressure.
If the appropriate pressure determination means 23-2 determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at an appropriate pressure, the control means 23 includes an alarm means 25 (and 26) for performing an alarm process. When a flow rate section in which a pressure is not set occurs, a re-learning operation for setting an appropriate pressure corresponding to the flow rate section is instructed.

In the invention according to claim 7, the flow rate measuring means 21 is disposed in the gas flow path and measures the gas flow rate. The flow rate classification determining means 23-1 determines the flow rate classification based on the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means 21. The pressure measuring means 22 is disposed at the meter outlet 20 of the gas meter, and measures the gas pressure at the meter outlet. The control unit 23 activates the pressure measurement unit 22. The learning data storage means 24-1 stores, as learning data, a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measurement means and a pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement means corresponding to the flow rate detection signal during a fixed learning period. The learning data analysis unit 23-5 analyzes the learning data stored in the learning data storage unit 24-1. The appropriate outlet pressure setting means 23-6 sets an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the flow rate category based on the analysis result of the learning data analysis means 23-5. Appropriate pressure determination means 23-2
Compares the appropriate pressure value corresponding to the specific flow rate category determined by the flow rate category determination means 23-1 with the pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement means 22 to determine whether the meter outlet pressure is at the appropriate pressure. Determine whether or not. The alarm means 25 (and 26) is provided when the appropriate pressure determining means 23-2 determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at the appropriate pressure.
Perform alarm processing. Further, when a flow rate section in which an appropriate pressure is not set at the time of learning occurs, the control unit 23 instructs a re-learning operation for setting an appropriate pressure corresponding to the flow rate section.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the gas meter self-diagnosis apparatus according to the seventh aspect, the control means 23 is provided.
When a specific signal is input based on a change in the use environment, the learning data stored in the learning data storage means 24-1 and the set appropriate pressure data are cleared, and the re-learning is forcibly started. It is characterized by doing.

In the invention described in claim 8, when the specific signal is input based on the change of the use environment, the control means 23 sets the learning data stored in the learning data storage means 24-1 and the set learning data. Clear the appropriate pressure data,
Force re-learning to start.

The gas meter self-diagnosis device according to the ninth aspect of the present invention is, as shown in the functional block diagram of FIG.
A flow rate determining means 23-1 for determining a flow rate category based on a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means 21; and a pressure measuring means disposed at a meter outlet 20 of a gas meter and measuring gas pressure at a meter outlet. 22, a control means 23 for activating the pressure measuring means 22, an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the specific flow rate section determined by the flow rate determining means 23-1, and a pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means 22. And the appropriate pressure judging means 23-2 for judging whether or not the meter outlet pressure is at the proper pressure, and judging that the meter outlet pressure is not at the proper pressure by the appropriate pressure judging means 23-2. In this case, an alarm means 25 (and 26) for performing an alarm process, and a pressure storage means 24-for storing a pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means 22-
2 and a history storage means 24-3 for storing data relating to the pressure loss generated during the period in response to a periodic command from the control means 23.

According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, the flow rate measuring means 21 is arranged in the gas flow path and measures the gas flow rate. The flow rate classification determining means 23-1 determines the flow rate classification based on the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means 21. The pressure measuring means 22 is disposed at the meter outlet 20 of the gas meter, and measures the gas pressure at the meter outlet. The control unit 23 activates the pressure measurement unit 22. The appropriate pressure determining means 23-2 compares the appropriate pressure value corresponding to the specific flow rate category determined by the flow rate category determining means 23-1 with the pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means 22, and determines that the meter outlet pressure is It is determined whether the pressure is appropriate. Warning means 2
5 (and 26) performs an alarm process when the appropriate pressure determination means 23-2 determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at the appropriate pressure. Further, the pressure storage means 24-
2 stores the pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means 22. The history storage unit 24-3 stores data related to the pressure loss that occurred during the period in response to a periodic command from the control unit 23.

[0024]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of a self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a gas supply system including a gas meter in which the self-diagnosis device of the present invention is implemented. The gas supply system 10 is roughly divided into a gas container 11 containing a liquefied gas, a container valve 12 for controlling a flow rate of gas supplied from the gas container 11, and a pressure of gas flowing out of the gas container 11. Gas meter 15 described later
A pressure regulator 13 that adjusts (reduces pressure) so that the pressure at the meter outlet side corresponds to the reference pressure, a gas meter 15 that is connected to the pressure regulator 13 via a gas pipe 14, and integrates a gas passing volume. The burner 17 includes a combustor 17 for burning the converted gas into heat energy, and a gas cock 18 for supplying / cutting off the gas to the combustor 17.

The gas meter 15 has a flow rate measuring section 21 provided between the meter inlet section 19 and the meter outlet section 20 as a flow rate measuring section, and a pressure measuring section 22 provided at the meter outlet section 20 as a pressure measuring section. , Control unit 23, memory 4, display unit 25 and alarm unit 2 as alarm means
6 is comprised.

The flow rate measuring section 21 is composed of, for example, a membrane type flow meter, and detects the flow rate of the gas flowing through the gas pipe 14.
The flow rate detection signal is output to the control unit 23.

The pressure measuring section 22 detects the gas pressure at the meter outlet section 20 and outputs a pressure detection signal to the control section 23.

The control unit 23 comprises, for example, a microcomputer, and outputs a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measurement unit 21 and
A pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement unit 22 is supplied, and based on the flow rate detection signal and the pressure detection signal, calculation and integration of a gas flow rate and monitoring of pressure fluctuation are performed.

Next, the general operation of the gas supply system having the above configuration will be described.

When the user twists the gas cock 18 to open, the liquefied gas in the gas container 11 is depressurized by the pressure regulator 13 after the flow rate is adjusted by the container valve 12, The gas is supplied to the gas meter 15.

The flow meter 21 of the gas meter 15 measures the flow rate of the gas flowing through the gas pipe 14 and supplies a flow rate detection signal to the controller 23. The control unit 23 includes the flow measurement unit 21
The flow rate is calculated based on the flow rate detection signal, and the calculated flow rates are integrated to calculate the integrated flow rate. The integrated flow rate calculated by the control unit 23 is stored in the memory 24,
It is displayed on the display unit 25.

Next, the operation of the self-diagnosis device of the present invention will be described. The self-diagnosis is based on the control unit 23 judging the fluctuation of the pressure detection signal of the pressure measuring unit 22 provided at the meter outlet unit 20.

Since the relationship between the flow rate and the outlet pressure of the meter has a stable characteristic, when the flow rate data is stored in the memory 24, the pressure at the outlet of the meter (giving a width by a coefficient) to the flow rate is in a normal state. And monitor the outlet pressure. Therefore, when an outlet side pressure lower than the reference value is measured, it is determined that the pressure loss inside the meter is large and a state of obstructing the gas flow has occurred, and a warning is displayed.

In general, the flow rate versus outlet side pressure characteristics are shown in FIG.
It can be expressed as 1. FIG. 12 shows the flow rate division and the appropriate gas pressure determined based on FIG.
In FIG. 12, the flow rate monitoring sections (for example, 1 to 13), the calorie (kcal) and the gas flow rate (L /
h) and the relationship between the appropriate gas pressure (kPa) are shown, and the contents of FIG. 12 are stored in the memory 24 as a look-up table.

Therefore, the flow rate is measured by the flow rate measuring section 21, and the control section 23 looks up the flow rate section corresponding to the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring section 21 in the lookup table corresponding to FIG. Judge based on the table. That is, the control unit 23 functions as a flow rate classification determination unit.

After determining the flow rate classification, the control unit 23
It functions as control means for activating the pressure measurement unit 22 and causes the pressure measurement unit 22 to perform pressure measurement. Next, the control unit 23
Functions as an appropriate pressure determining means for comparing the pressure detection signal supplied from the pressure measuring unit 22 with the appropriate pressure read from the memory 24 corresponding to the determined flow rate category. When the measured pressure from the pressure measurement unit 22 is lower than the appropriate pressure, the control unit 23 can infer that an abnormality has occurred inside the meter, determine that there is a security problem (self-diagnosis), and display the display. The alarm is displayed on the unit 25 and is notified to the outside (for example, a management center) via the notification unit 20.

Next, the above-described self-diagnosis operation will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, in step S1,
The flow rate is measured by the flow rate measuring unit 21, and then, in step S2
Then, the control unit 23 determines the flow rate classification, and then performs the pressure measurement by the pressure measurement unit 22 in step S3. Next, in step S4, the control unit 23 determines whether the measured pressure P is lower than an appropriate pressure. If the answer to step S4 is no, the process returns to step S1, and if yes, the process proceeds to step S5. In step S5, the control unit 23 performs an alarm process (display, notification).

Next, as another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device of the present invention, an embodiment will be described in which a counting process is added to the above-mentioned self-diagnosis operation to make the alarm judgment more reliable. In this embodiment, each time the measured pressure becomes smaller than the appropriate pressure, an abnormal number counter (for example,
(Not shown here) is +1 times. Next, the control unit 23 functions as an alarm determination unit that determines the number of abnormalities, and performs an alarm process when the number of abnormalities reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times).

The count of the number of abnormalities may be performed by a “continuous counting method” in which the number of abnormalities is counted up when abnormalities are continuously detected, and the abnormal number counter is cleared when a normal pressure is detected. For example, a “cumulative counting method” that counts the cumulative number of abnormal times for 30 days) may be used.

Next, a self-diagnosis operation in another embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

First, in step S11, the flow rate is measured by the flow rate measuring section 21, and then in step S12, the control section 23 is measured.
Determines the flow rate category, and then performs pressure measurement by the pressure measurement unit 22 in step S13, and then in step S14,
The control unit 23 determines whether the measured pressure P is lower than the appropriate pressure. If the answer to step S14 is no,
Then, the process returns to step S11.
Proceed to 15. In step S15, the abnormality counter is set to +
The number is set to once, and then in step S16, the control unit 23 determines whether or not the number of abnormalities has reached a predetermined number of determinations (for example, 10). If the answer to step S16 is no, then the process returns to step S11, and if yes, the process proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the control unit 23
Gives an alarm (display, report).

Next, as still another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device of the present invention, an embodiment in which a self-diagnosis operation is performed by calculating and setting an appropriate pressure corresponding to a specific flow rate without using a flow rate division. Will be described.

Since the relationship between the flow rate and the outlet pressure of the meter has a stable characteristic, the relationship between the flow rate and the outlet pressure is derived by an equation. That is, when a gas is used, the meter outlet pressure (with a certain width provided by counting) for the flow rate is derived from a mathematical expression, the derived value is set as an appropriate pressure, and the outlet side pressure is monitored. Therefore, when the outlet side pressure lower than the appropriate pressure is measured, it is determined that the pressure loss inside the meter is large and a state of obstructing the gas flow has occurred, and a warning is displayed.

In general, the difference between the pressure on the inlet side and the pressure on the outlet side of the gas meter, that is, the pressure loss characteristic can be represented as shown in FIG. 15, and the pressure characteristic on the outlet side can be represented as shown in FIG. it can. Therefore, the flow rate is measured by the flow rate measuring unit 21. Next, the control unit 23 controls the flow rate measurement unit 21
After the flow rate is determined based on the flow rate detection signal from the controller, the appropriate pressure corresponding to the specific flow rate is calculated using a mathematical expression obtained from the relationship between the pressure loss characteristic and the outlet pressure characteristic in FIGS. That is, the control unit 23 functions as an appropriate pressure calculating unit.

For example, since the value of the pressure loss in the meter changes depending on the flow rate, a section is provided based on the flow rate value, and the pressure loss is derived using an equation suitable for each section. As an example, the categories are the following three categories,
The pressure loss calculation formula corresponding to each category is used as follows.

(Division) Division The flow rate is larger than zero and 1000 (liter /
Time; less than L / h) Category Flow rate is 1000 L / h or more and less than 2000 L / h Category Flow rate is 2000 L / h or more and less than 2500 L / h

(Pressure loss calculation formula) Category Y = 0.142X + 29.63 Category Y = 0.0088X-16.37 Category Y = 0.131X-102 where Y: pressure loss (Pa), X = flow rate (L) / H).

Next, the control section 23 functions as control means for activating the pressure measurement section 22 and causes the pressure measurement section 22 to perform pressure measurement at a specific flow rate. Next, the control unit 23 functions as an appropriate pressure determination unit that compares the pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement unit 22 with the appropriate pressure calculated using the mathematical expression as described above. When the measured pressure from the pressure measuring unit 22 is lower than the appropriate pressure calculated by the formula, the control unit 23 can infer that an abnormality has occurred inside the meter, and determines that there is a security problem (self-diagnosis). Then, an alarm is displayed on the display unit 25 and a notification is made to the outside (for example, a management center) via the notification unit 26.

Next, the above-mentioned self-diagnosis operation will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. First, step S21
Then, the flow rate is measured by the flow rate measurement unit 21, and then, in step S22, the control unit 23 sets the appropriate pressure in FIG.
Calculation is performed using a mathematical expression obtained from the relationship between the pressure loss characteristic and the outlet pressure characteristic of No. 1, and then, in step S23, the force measurement unit 22 measures the pressure. Next, step S24
Then, the control unit 23 determines whether or not the measured pressure P is lower than the appropriate pressure. If the answer to step S24 is no, then the process returns to step S21, and if yes, the process proceeds to step S25. In step S25, the control unit 23 performs an alarm process (display, notification).

Next, as still another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device of the present invention, an embodiment will be described in which a counting process is added to the above-mentioned self-diagnosis operation to make the alarm judgment more reliable. When the measured pressure <the appropriate pressure, the abnormality counter is set to +1. Next, the control unit 23 functions as an alarm determination unit that determines the number of abnormalities, and performs an alarm process when the number of abnormalities reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times).

The count of the number of abnormalities may be performed by a “continuous counting method” in which the number of abnormalities is counted up when abnormalities are continuously detected, and the abnormal number counter is cleared when a normal pressure is detected. For example, a “cumulative counting method” that counts the cumulative number of abnormal times for 30 days) may be used.

Next, a self-diagnosis operation in still another embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

First, in step S31, the flow rate is measured by the flow rate measuring unit 31, and then in step S32, the control unit 23
Calculates an appropriate pressure using a mathematical expression obtained from the relationship between the pressure loss characteristics and the outlet pressure characteristics in FIGS. 15 and 11, and then measures the pressure by the pressure measurement unit 22 in step S33. Next, in step S34, the control unit 23 determines whether the measured pressure P is lower than the appropriate pressure.
If the answer to step S34 is no, then step S34
The process returns to step S31, and if yes, the process proceeds to step S35. In step S35, the abnormality counter (for example, the control unit 2
3 but not shown here) is set to +1, and then in step S36, the control unit 23 determines whether or not the number of abnormalities has reached a predetermined number of determinations (for example, 10). I do. If the answer to step S36 is no, then the process returns to step S31, and if yes, the process proceeds to step S37. In step S37, the control unit 23 performs an alarm process (display, notification).

Next, as still another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device of the present invention, the self-diagnosis is performed by monitoring the fluctuation of the pressure on the meter outlet side with respect to the appropriate pressure determined by the flow rate classification and the learning. An example will be described.

In this embodiment, at each flow rate in the gas meter, the pressure loss characteristic may change depending on the combination of the pressure regulator 13 and each gas meter, and an appropriate pressure loss (appropriate pressure) setting may be made. Do. Even if the pressure at the meter outlet side is a constant (stable) flow rate, it changes depending on the magnitude of the flow rate. Therefore, it is necessary to perform measurement with the magnitude of the flow rate kept constant. If it is determined that the flow rate is constant, pressure sampling is performed during that period to extract the outlet pressure data.

Learning is performed during a certain period (for example, 3
0) is measured, and an appropriate outlet pressure (pressure loss) in each flow rate section is set from the measured data (multiplied by a safety coefficient in some cases). The presence or absence of an abnormal value of the outlet pressure with respect to the set appropriate outlet pressure is monitored.

At the time of monitoring the outlet pressure, when the outlet pressure becomes smaller than the proper outlet pressure set at the time of learning, it is determined that a state of obstructing the gas flow due to an abnormality inside the meter has occurred. Performs alarm processing (display, notification).

In general, the difference between the pressure on the inlet side and the pressure on the outlet side of the gas meter, that is, the pressure loss characteristic can be represented as shown in FIG. 15, and the flow rate versus the pressure characteristic on the outlet side is shown in FIG.
Can be expressed as FIG. 12 shows the flow rate division and the appropriate gas pressure determined based on FIG. In FIG. 12, the flow rate monitoring sections (for example, 1 to 13), the calorie (kcal) and the gas flow rate (L /
h) and the appropriate gas pressure (kPa) are shown, and the contents of FIG. 12 are stored in the memory 24 as a look-up table.

When the flow rate is detected by the flow rate measuring section 21, the control section 23 starts learning. Control unit 23
Determines the flow rate section corresponding to the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measurement unit 21 based on the look-up table stored in the memory 24 and corresponding to FIG. That is,
The control unit 23 functions as a flow rate classification determination unit.

After determining the flow rate category, the control unit 23
It is determined whether the flow rate is stable. When it is determined that the flow rate is stable, the control unit 23 functions as a control unit that starts the pressure measurement unit 22 and causes the pressure measurement unit 22 to perform the pressure measurement. The pressure data, which is the result of pressure sampling by the pressure measuring unit 22, is stored as learning data in the memory 24 serving as learning data storage means. When the learning period ends, the control unit 23 functions as a learning data analysis unit, reads out the learned pressure data from the memory 24, analyzes the pressure data,
Next, it functions as an appropriate outlet pressure setting means to derive and set an appropriate outlet pressure for each flow rate section.

After the learning, the control unit 23 monitors the outlet pressure value P measured by the pressure measuring unit 22 with reference to the appropriate outlet pressure value derived as described above. It works as an appropriate pressure determining means). When the outlet pressure value P becomes smaller than the reference value, the control unit 23 determines that there is an abnormality and there is a security problem, and the display unit 2
5, an alarm is displayed, and a notification is made to the outside (for example, a management center) via the notification unit 26.

For the flow rate that could not be observed during the learning period, the appropriate pressure value corresponding to the flow rate section to which the flow rate belongs is read out from the memory 24 based on the table shown in FIG. Set as a value.

Next, the above-described self-diagnosis operation will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

The learning operation is performed based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First, in Step S51, when the flow rate measurement by the flow rate measuring unit 21 is detected, Step S52 is performed.
Then, the control unit 23 starts a learning timer (for example, built in the control unit 23, not shown here) for setting a learning period (for example, 30 days). Next, in step 53, the control unit 23 determines whether or not the learning timer has timed out. If the answer to step S53 is no, the process proceeds to step S54, and if yes, the process proceeds to step S59.

In step S54, the control unit 23 determines whether or not there is a flow rate based on the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measurement unit 21, and if the answer is no, returns to step S53. Proceed to. Step S5
In 5, the control unit 23 determines the flow rate section corresponding to the flow rate detection signal based on the look-up table stored in the memory 24 and corresponding to FIG.

After determining the flow rate classification, the control unit 23
In step S56, it is determined whether the flow rate is stable. If the flow rate is not stable, the flow returns to step S53, and if it is determined that the flow rate is stable, the flow proceeds to step S57. Step S5
At 7, the control unit 23 activates the pressure measuring unit 22 to measure the pressure. The result of pressure sampling by the pressure measurement unit 22 is stored in the memory 24 as learning data. Next, in step S58, when the learning period ends, the control unit 2
3 reads and analyzes the learned pressure data from the memory 24.

Next, the data analysis work in step S59 is performed based on the flowchart shown in FIG.
First, in step S61, the control unit 23 determines whether the number of pressure data sampled during the learning period is zero. If the number of data is zero, the process proceeds to step S62, and the control unit 23 executes the processing shown in FIG.
Set an appropriate outlet pressure value based on the table. If the number of data is not zero, the process proceeds to step S63, and the control unit sets an appropriate outlet pressure based on the following method 1 or method 2.

(Method 1) An appropriate exit based on data variation
Set pressure. (1) Each sampling pressure v1, v for each flow rate section
2,. . . Average value (V _AVE), Calculate the variation (√v)
Put out. (2) The occurrence range is calculated from the data. Generation range = average value (V_AVE) ± 3√v (3) Set the minimum value of the generation range as the appropriate outlet pressure
You. (If this value is exceeded, it may
There is no value and it is determined as abnormal. )

(Method 2) An appropriate outlet pressure is set based on the minimum value of the data. (1) Each sampling pressure v1, v for each flow rate section
2,. . . Extract the minimum value among. (2) Multiply each minimum value by a safety factor. (3) The value determined in (2) is set as an appropriate outlet pressure.

Next, the self-diagnosis operation is performed based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First, in step 41,
The flow rate is measured by the flow rate measuring unit 21, and then, in step S4
In step 2, the control unit 23 determines the flow rate classification, and then in step S43, the control unit 23 determines whether the flow rate is stable based on the flow rate data from the flow rate measurement unit 21. If the flow rate is stable, the pressure is measured by the pressure measuring unit 22 in step S44. Next, in step S45,
The control unit 23 determines whether or not the measured pressure P is smaller than the above-described appropriate outlet pressure. If the answer to step S45 is yes, the process proceeds to step S46, and the control unit 23
It judges that the gas meter is abnormal and there is a security problem, and performs alarm processing (display, notification).

Next, as still another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device of the present invention, an embodiment will be described in which a counting process is added to the above-mentioned self-diagnosis operation to make the alarm judgment more reliable. When the measured pressure <the appropriate pressure, the abnormality counter is set to +1. Next, the control unit 23 functions as an alarm determination unit that determines the number of abnormalities, and performs an alarm process when the number of abnormalities reaches a predetermined number of times (for example, 10 times).

The count of the number of abnormalities may be incremented when abnormalities are continuously detected, and may be a "continuous counting method" in which the abnormal frequency counter is cleared when a normal pressure is detected, or during a certain period (for example, 30 days)
Alternatively, a "cumulative counting method" for counting the cumulative number of abnormal times may be used.

Next, a self-diagnosis operation to which the above-described counting process is added will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

First, in step 71, the flow rate is measured by the flow rate measuring section 21, and then in step S72, the control section 23 determines the flow rate classification. Then, in step S73, the control section 23 determines whether the flow rate is stable. Determine whether or not. If the flow rate is stable, the pressure is measured by the pressure measuring unit 22 in step S74. Next, in step S75, the control unit 23
Determines whether the measured pressure P is smaller than the appropriate outlet pressure described above. If the answer to step S75 is YES, the process proceeds to step S76, where the abnormality counter is set to +1. Then, in step S77, it is determined whether or not the abnormality number has reached a predetermined determination number (for example, 10). . If the answer to step S77 is no, the process returns to step S71, and if yes, the process proceeds to step S78. In step S78, an alarm process (display, report) is performed.

Next, as still another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device of the present invention, the self-diagnosis apparatus monitors the fluctuation of the pressure at the meter outlet side with respect to the flow pressure classification and the appropriate pressure determined by learning and relearning. An embodiment for performing a diagnosis will be described.

In this embodiment, at each flow rate in the gas meter, the pressure loss characteristics may change depending on the combination of the pressure regulator 13 and each gas meter, so that an appropriate pressure loss (appropriate pressure) setting can be made. Do. Even when the outlet pressure is constant (stable), the outlet pressure varies depending on the magnitude of the flow rate. Therefore, it is necessary to measure the flow rate at a constant level. If it is determined that the flow rate is constant, pressure sampling is performed during that period to extract the outlet pressure data.

As for learning, during a certain period (for example, 3
0) is measured, and an appropriate outlet pressure (pressure loss) in each flow rate section is set from the measured data (multiplied by a safety coefficient in some cases). The presence or absence of an abnormal value of the outlet pressure with respect to the set appropriate outlet pressure is monitored.

After the learning is completed, if the measured pressure value is smaller than the appropriate pressure value, it is determined that a state of obstructing the gas flow due to an abnormality in the meter has occurred, and a warning is displayed.

Further, the flow rate segment is continuously checked, and if use is confirmed in a flow segment not observed at the time of learning, a re-learning mode in which the outlet pressure is learned for the flow segment is set. Enter (until the re-learning ends).

Further, the gas supply system is changed, for example, the gas meter is relocated, the used combustor 17 is replaced,
If there is a change in the usage environment of the gas meter such as individual supply or centralized supply (that is, whether the combustor 17 is single or plural, forced re-learning is performed.

The flow rate versus outlet side pressure characteristics can be represented as shown in FIG. FIG. 12 shows the flow rate division and the appropriate gas pressure determined based on FIG. FIG. 12 shows the relationship between the flow monitoring sections (for example, 1 to 13) and the amount of heat (kcal), gas flow rate (L / h), and appropriate gas pressure (kPa) corresponding to each flow section.
2 are stored in the memory 24 as a look-up table.

When the flow rate is detected by the flow rate measuring section 21, the control section 23 starts learning. Control unit 23
Determines the flow rate section corresponding to the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measurement unit 21 based on the look-up table stored in the memory 24 and corresponding to FIG. That is,
The control unit 23 functions as a flow rate classification determination unit.

After determining the flow rate classification, the control unit 23
It is determined whether the flow rate is stable. When it is determined that the flow rate is stable, the control unit 23 functions as a control unit that starts the pressure measurement unit 22 and causes the pressure measurement unit 22 to perform the pressure measurement. The pressure data, which is the result of pressure sampling by the pressure measuring unit 22, is stored as learning data in the memory 24 serving as learning data storage means. When the learning period ends, the control unit 23 functions as learning data analysis means,
The learned pressure data is read from the memory 4 and analyzed,
Next, it functions as an appropriate outlet pressure setting means to derive and set an appropriate outlet pressure for each flow rate section.

After the learning, the control section 23 functions as an appropriate pressure determining means for monitoring the outlet pressure value P measured by the pressure measuring section 22 using the appropriate outlet pressure value as a reference value. When the outlet pressure value P becomes smaller than the reference value, the control unit 23 determines that the pressure is abnormal and has a security problem, and performs an alarm process (display, notification).

For the flow rate that could not be observed during the learning period, an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the flow rate section to which the flow rate belongs is read from the memory 24 and set as a reference value based on the table in FIG.

Even after the learning is completed, the flow rate classification is checked. When the flow rate classification not observed at the time of learning is used, the control unit 23 determines that there is a change in the use state, and determines the flow rate. The outlet pressure is learned for the section (re-learning). In this case, the control unit 23 functions as a re-learning determination unit, and the learned sampling pressure data is stored in the memory 24 that functions as a learning data storage unit. When the learning period ends, the control unit 23 functions as learning data analysis means, reads and analyzes the learned pressure data from the memory 4, and derives and sets an appropriate outlet pressure of the flow rate section described above.

Further, the compulsory learning is also monitored by the above-described control procedure, and a specific signal is sent to the control unit 23 when the gas meter is removed due to a change in the use environment.
, The learning data on the outlet pressure stored in the memory 24 and the set appropriate pressure data are cleared, and the re-learning is forcibly started. The sampling pressure data learned by the forced re-learning is stored in the memory 24 functioning as learning data storage means. When the learning period ends, the control unit 23 functions as learning data analysis means, reads and analyzes the learned pressure data from the memory 4, and derives and sets an appropriate outlet pressure for each flow rate section.

Next, the above-described self-diagnosis operation will be described with reference to FIGS.
9 and a flowchart of FIG.

The learning and data analysis operations are performed based on the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 18 and 19.
The details of this operation have already been described above, and are omitted here.

Next, the self-diagnosis operation is performed based on the flowchart shown in FIG. First, in step 81,
The flow rate is measured by the flow rate measurement 21, and then, in step S82
Then, the control unit 23 determines the flow rate division, and then, in step S83, the control unit 23 determines whether or not the determined flow rate division is a flow rate division with zero learning data. If the answer is yes, the process proceeds to step S84, and the measured flow rate class proceeds to the flowchart of FIG. 18, and relearning is performed.

Then, the process proceeds to a step S85, wherein the control unit 23
Determines whether the flow rate is stable. If the flow rate is stable, the pressure is measured by the pressure measuring unit 22 in step S86, and then in step S87, the control unit 23
It is determined whether or not the measured pressure P is smaller than the above-described appropriate outlet pressure. If the answer to step S87 is yes,
Proceeding to step S88, the control unit 23 determines that the gas meter is abnormal and has a security problem, and performs an alarm process (display,
Report).

Next, as still another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device of the present invention, an embodiment will be described in which a counting process is added to the above-mentioned self-diagnosis operation to make the alarm judgment more reliable. When the measured pressure <appropriate pressure, the abnormality counter is set to +1. When the abnormality number reaches a predetermined number (for example, 10 times), an alarm is determined and an alarm process is performed.

The count of the number of abnormalities may be counted up when abnormalities are continuously detected, and may be a "continuous counting method" in which the abnormal frequency counter is cleared when a normal pressure is detected, or during a certain period (for example, 30 days)
Alternatively, a "cumulative counting method" for counting the cumulative number of abnormal times may be used.

Next, a self-diagnosis operation to which the above-described counting process is added will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

First, at step 91, the flow rate is measured by the flow rate measuring section 21, and then at step S92, the control section 23 determines the flow rate category. Then, at step S93, the control section 23 determines whether the determined flow rate category is It is determined whether or not the flow rate classification of the data at the time of learning is zero. If the answer is yes, the process proceeds to step S94, and the measured flow rate division is as shown in FIG.
Proceeding to the flowchart of FIG. 8, relearning is performed.

Then, the process proceeds to a step S95, wherein the control unit 23
Determines whether the flow rate is stable. If the flow rate is stable, the pressure is measured by the pressure measuring unit 22 in step S96, and then in step S97, the control unit 23
It is determined whether or not the measured pressure P is smaller than the above-described appropriate outlet pressure. If the answer to step S97 is yes,
Proceeding to step S98, the abnormality counter is incremented by one, and then in step S99, the control unit 23 determines whether the number of abnormalities has reached a predetermined number (for example, ten). If the answer to step S99 is no, then return to step S91; if yes, step S1
Go to 00. In step S100, the control unit 23 performs an alarm process (display, notification).

Next, as still another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device of the present invention, an embodiment in which self-diagnosis is performed with storage of history of data related to self-diagnosis will be described.

In this embodiment, even if the flow rate is constant (stable), the pressure at the outlet of the meter changes depending on the magnitude of the flow rate. Therefore, when measuring the pressure loss, the measurement is performed with the magnitude of the flow rate kept constant. There is a need. If it is determined that the flow rate is constant, pressure sampling is performed and data is constantly extracted during that period. When the measured pressure value is smaller than the appropriate pressure value, it is determined that a state of obstructing the gas flow has occurred due to an abnormality inside the meter, and an alarm process (display, notification) is performed.

Regarding the pressure loss history, data such as the maximum value, the minimum value, the number of abnormalities, the average value, and the variation of the pressure loss occurring during the period regardless of the presence or absence of abnormality periodically (for example, every 30 days) is used as the flow rate. Save for each category. The data amount is, for example, three months to one year.

First, the flow rate is measured by the flow rate measuring section 21, and the control section 23 looks up the flow rate section corresponding to the flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring section 21 in a lookup table corresponding to FIG. Judge based on the table.

After determining the flow rate classification, the control unit 23
It is determined whether or not the flow rate is stable. If it is determined that the flow rate is stable, the control unit 23 functions as a control unit that starts the pressure measurement unit 22 and causes the pressure measurement unit 22 to perform pressure measurement. Next, the control unit 23 stores the pressure data as the pressure sampling result from the pressure measurement unit 22 in the memory 24, and compares the pressure data with the appropriate pressure value in each flow rate section read from the memory 24. The control unit 23 judges that there is an abnormality when the pressure deviates from the appropriate pressure loss and there is a security problem, and performs an alarm process (display, notification). Further, the control unit 23 periodically registers the data such as the maximum value, the minimum value, the number of abnormalities, the average value, and the variation of the pressure loss in the memory 24 historically for each flow rate category.

Next, the above-described self-diagnosis operation will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

First, in step S101, the flow rate measuring unit 21
In step S102, the control unit 23 determines the flow rate classification, and then in step S103,
The control unit 23 determines whether the flow rate is stable.
If the flow rate is stable, the pressure is measured by the pressure measurement unit 22 in step S104. Then, step S1
At 07, the measured pressure data is registered in the memory 24. In step S105, the control unit 23 determines whether the measured pressure P is lower than the appropriate pressure. If the answer to step S105 is no, then step S1
01, and if yes, proceed to step S106. In step S106, the control unit 23 performs an alarm process (display, notification).

Next, storage and clear processing of history data will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.
First, in step S111, a history timer (built in the control unit 23, but not shown here) is started,
Next, in step S112, the control unit 23 determines whether the history timer has timed out. If the time is over, the process proceeds to step S113, where the control unit 23
Writes the pressure data in the registration area of the memory 24 as history data in the history area. Next, the control unit 23
Clear the data in the registration area, then step S11
In 5, the control unit 23 clears the history timer, and then in step S116, the control unit 23 restarts the history timer, and then returns to step S112.

[0106]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, since an abnormality is mainly detected in the weighing portion, proper weighing can be performed. Further, by displaying and notifying an alarm that an abnormality has occurred, countermeasures can be taken, so that it is possible to always ensure convenience for consumers.
Further, it is possible to perform a self-diagnosis as to whether or not the meter outlet pressure is an appropriate pressure for each flow rate section.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to more reliably determine whether an alarm should be issued.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, since an abnormality is mainly detected in the weighing portion, proper weighing can be performed. Further, by displaying and notifying an alarm that an abnormality has occurred, countermeasures can be taken, so that it is possible to always ensure convenience for consumers.
In addition, it is possible to perform a self-diagnosis as to whether or not a specific meter outlet pressure is at an appropriate pressure.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to more reliably determine whether or not an alarm should be issued.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since an abnormality is mainly detected in the weighing portion, proper weighing can be performed. Further, by displaying and notifying an alarm that an abnormality has occurred, countermeasures can be taken, so that it is possible to always ensure convenience for consumers.
Further, since an appropriate outlet pressure is set for each flow rate section by learning, more accurate self-diagnosis can be performed.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to more reliably determine whether or not an alarm should be issued.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, since an abnormality is mainly detected in the weighing portion, proper weighing can be performed. Further, by displaying and notifying an alarm that an abnormality has occurred, countermeasures can be taken, so that it is possible to always ensure convenience for consumers.
Further, since an appropriate outlet pressure is set for each flow rate section by learning, more accurate self-diagnosis can be performed. In addition, since a re-learning function is provided, self-diagnosis can be performed in accordance with the use situation.

According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, since a forced re-learning function is provided, self-diagnosis can be performed in accordance with a use situation.

According to the ninth aspect of the invention, an abnormality is mainly detected in the weighing portion, so that proper weighing can be performed. Further, by displaying and notifying an alarm that an abnormality has occurred, countermeasures can be taken, so that it is possible to always ensure convenience for consumers.
Further, since various data relating to the fluctuation of the outlet pressure is stored in the history, it is possible to grasp the progress up to the occurrence of the abnormality.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a gas meter self-diagnosis device according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a gas meter self-diagnosis device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a gas meter self-diagnosis device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram of still another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of still another embodiment of the gas meter self-diagnosis device according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of still another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a functional block diagram of a gas meter self-diagnosis apparatus according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a functional block diagram of still another embodiment of the gas meter self-diagnosis device according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram of still another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic configuration diagram of a gas supply system including a gas meter implementing the self-diagnosis device of the present invention.

FIG. 11 shows a flow rate versus an outlet side pressure characteristic in a gas meter implementing the self-diagnosis device of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a table showing flow rate categories and appropriate gas pressures determined based on FIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the gas meter self-diagnosis device according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of another embodiment of the self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows an outlet pressure loss characteristic in a gas meter implementing the self-diagnosis device of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a gas meter self-diagnosis device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of still another embodiment of the gas meter self-diagnosis device according to the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a gas meter self-diagnosis device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a gas meter self-diagnosis device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a gas meter self-diagnosis device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of still another embodiment of the gas meter self-diagnosis device according to the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a gas meter self-diagnosis device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of still another embodiment of the gas meter self-diagnosis device according to the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of a gas meter self-diagnosis device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a gas meter self-diagnosis device according to still another embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 21 flow rate measuring means 22 pressure measuring means 23 control means 23-1 flow rate determining means 23-2 proper pressure determining means 23-3 counting means 23-4 alarm determining means 23-5 learning data analyzing means 23-6 proper outlet pressure setting Means 23-7 Outlet pressure judgment means 23-8 Pressure loss judgment means 25 Alarm means

Claims (9)

[Claims] 1. A flow rate measuring means disposed in a gas flow path for measuring a gas flow rate, a flow rate classifying means for determining a flow rate category based on a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means, and a meter outlet of a gas meter Pressure measuring means arranged at the section, for measuring gas pressure at the outlet of the meter, control means for activating the pressure measuring means, an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the specific flow rate section determined by the flow rate section determining means, and A pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement means, a proper pressure determination means for determining whether or not the meter outlet pressure is at an appropriate pressure; and the meter outlet pressure being an appropriate pressure by the appropriate pressure determination means. A self-diagnosis device for a gas meter, comprising: an alarm unit for performing an alarm process when it is determined that there is no alarm. 2. A counting means for counting the number of times that the meter outlet pressure is determined not to be the proper pressure by the appropriate pressure determining means, and the number counted by the counting means reaches a predetermined number of determinations. Alarm judging means for detecting that the number of times counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined number by the alarm judging means. The self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to claim 1, wherein: 3. A flow rate measuring means disposed in a gas flow path and measuring a gas flow rate; a pressure measuring means disposed at a meter outlet of a gas meter and measuring gas pressure at a meter outlet; A suitable pressure value corresponding to the flow rate detection signal is calculated, and the control means for activating the pressure measuring means is compared with the proper pressure value calculated by the control means and the pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means. An appropriate pressure determining means for determining whether or not the meter outlet pressure is at an appropriate pressure; and performing an alarm process when the appropriate outlet pressure determining means determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at an appropriate pressure. A self-diagnosis device for a gas meter, comprising an alarm means. 4. A counting means for counting the number of times that the meter outlet pressure is determined not to be the proper pressure by the appropriate pressure determining means, and the number counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined number. Alarm determination means for detecting that the alarm determination means performs an alarm process when the alarm determination means detects that the number counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined number. 4. The self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to claim 3, wherein: 5. A flow rate measuring means arranged in a gas flow path for measuring a gas flow rate, a flow rate determining means for determining a flow rate category based on a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means, and a meter outlet of the gas meter Pressure measuring means arranged in the unit for measuring gas pressure at the meter outlet; control means for activating the pressure measuring means; a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means during a fixed learning period; Learning data storage means for storing a pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement means corresponding to a signal as learning data; learning data analysis means for analyzing the learning data stored in the learning data storage means; Based on the analysis result of the analysis means, an appropriate outlet pressure setting means for setting an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the flow rate section, and the flow rate section determination means An outlet pressure determining unit that compares an appropriate pressure value corresponding to a fixed flow rate section with a pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring unit to determine whether a meter outlet pressure is an appropriate pressure; A self-diagnosis device for a gas meter, comprising: an alarming means for performing an alarming process when the judging means judges that the meter outlet pressure is not at an appropriate pressure. 6. A counting means for counting the number of times that the meter outlet pressure is determined not to be the proper pressure by the appropriate pressure determining means, and the number counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined number. Alarm judging means for detecting the fact that the alarm means performs an alarm process when the alarm judging means detects that the number counted by the counting means has reached a predetermined judgment number. 6. The self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to claim 5, wherein: 7. A flow rate measuring means disposed in a gas flow path for measuring a gas flow rate, a flow rate determining means for determining a flow rate category based on a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means, and a meter outlet of a gas meter Pressure measuring means arranged in the unit for measuring gas pressure at the meter outlet; control means for activating the pressure measuring means; a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means during a fixed learning period; Learning data storage means for storing a pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement means corresponding to a signal as learning data; learning data analysis means for analyzing the learning data stored in the learning data storage means; Based on the analysis result of the analysis means, an appropriate outlet pressure setting means for setting an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the flow rate section, and the flow rate section determination means An appropriate pressure determining means for comparing an appropriate pressure value corresponding to a fixed flow rate section with a pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means to determine whether or not the meter outlet pressure is an appropriate pressure; and When the determining means determines that the meter outlet pressure is not at the proper pressure, the controlling means comprises a warning means for performing a warning process. A self-diagnosis device for a gas meter, which instructs re-learning work for setting an appropriate pressure corresponding to the flow rate section. 8. The control means clears the learning data and the set appropriate pressure data stored in the learning data storage means when a specific signal is input based on a change in the use environment, and 8. The self-diagnosis device for a gas meter according to claim 7, wherein the re-learning is started. 9. A flow rate measuring means disposed in a gas flow path for measuring a gas flow rate, a flow rate classification determining means for determining a flow rate category based on a flow rate detection signal from the flow rate measuring means, and a meter outlet of the gas meter Pressure measuring means arranged at the section, for measuring gas pressure at the outlet of the meter, control means for activating the pressure measuring means, an appropriate pressure value corresponding to the specific flow rate section determined by the flow rate section determining means, and A pressure detection signal from the pressure measurement means, a proper pressure determination means for determining whether or not the meter outlet pressure is at an appropriate pressure; and the meter outlet pressure being an appropriate pressure by the appropriate pressure determination means. When it is determined that there is no alarm signal, an alarm means for performing an alarm process, a pressure storage means for storing a pressure detection signal from the pressure measuring means, and a periodic Decree, the self-diagnosing apparatus of the gas meter, characterized in that comprising a history storage means for storing data relating to the pressure loss occurring within that period.