JP2024009698A - Electric valve, electric valve system, electric valve monitoring unit, electric valve terminal base device and electric valve monitoring system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electric valve which can investigate a cause of an operation failure when the operation failure occurs, to provide an electric valve system which can monitor a history of a use state of the electric valve, and an electric valve terminal base device, and to provide an electric valve monitoring unit which can monitor the history of the use state of the electric valve, and an electric valve monitoring system.

SOLUTION: An electric valve 1 includes a valve body 2 for opening and closing a flow passage 4, an electric actuator 3 for driving the valve body 2 by a drive force of a motor M, a housing 15 for accommodating the electric actuator 3, a memory 20, and a monitoring control unit 19 for accumulating history information indicating a history of the electric valve 1 in the memory 20. The history information accumulated in the memory 20 includes motor operation history information indicating an operation history of the motor M, and a temperature history information indicating a history of a temperature in the housing 15. The electric valve 1 further includes an electric valve terminal base 16. The memory 20 and the monitoring control unit 19 are mounted to a wiring baseboard 17 of the electric valve terminal base 16.

SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

COPYRIGHT: (C)2024,JPO&INPIT

Description

The present invention relates to an electrically operated valve, an electrically operated valve system, an electrically operated valve monitor unit, an electrically operated valve terminal block device, and an electrically operated valve monitor system.

Patent Document 1 discloses an electric valve. The electric valve includes a valve body that opens and closes a flow path, and a motor that drives the valve body. When the motor is energized, the rotational driving force of the motor is transmitted to the output shaft via the transmission mechanism, thereby causing the valve body to open the flow path.

Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-229735

When a malfunction occurs in a motorized valve, such as malfunction, the motorized valve is removed from the piping equipment and the cause is investigated through external inspection and other means. However, investigating the cause through such work is not necessarily easy, and the causes that can be identified are limited. Particularly, if the malfunction that occurs in the motor-operated valve is not due to a product defect but to unexpected usage conditions, it is not easy to identify the cause even if the motor-operated valve is examined.

For example, in addition to the opening/closing operation of the electric valve intended by the user, the vibrational opening/closing operation of the electric valve may occur due to the influence of noise in the command signal, feedback control, or the like. In such a case, the expected operation frequency of the motor-operated valve and the actual operation frequency of the motor-operated valve will differ greatly, and the number of durable operations of the motor-operated valve whose specifications have been selected based on the assumption will be quickly reached.

Furthermore, the environment in which the electric valve is used may be different from that expected. For example, depending on the fluid flowing through the piping whose flow path is opened and closed by the electric valve and the conditions around the piping, the environmental temperature of the motor built into the electric valve may become higher than expected. In such a case, the motor or the like is given a temperature history that exceeds the operating permissible temperature of the electric valve whose specifications are selected based on assumptions, and there is a risk that failure will occur sooner than expected.

Accordingly, one object of the present invention is to provide an electrically operated valve that is equipped with a mechanism for monitoring the usage history, and thereby can solve the above-mentioned problems.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a motorized valve system and a motorized valve terminal block device that are capable of monitoring the usage history of a motorized valve.

Another object of the present invention is to provide an electrically operated valve monitor unit and an electrically operated valve monitoring system that can monitor the usage history of electrically operated valves.

One embodiment of the present invention provides an electric valve having the following features.

1. A valve body that opens and closes the flow path;
an electric actuator that drives the valve body using the driving force of a motor;
a housing that accommodates the electric actuator;
memory and
a monitor control unit that stores history information in the memory, including at least one of motor operation history information representing an operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing an environment history within the housing;
Including electric valves.

According to this configuration, history information including at least one of motor operation history information representing the operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing the environmental history within the housing is accumulated in the memory. By reading the history information stored in the memory, at least one of the operation history of the motor and the environmental history within the housing can be investigated. That is, the usage status of the electric valve is monitored, and history information as a result of the monitoring can be stored and left in the memory.

When a malfunction occurs in the motor-operated valve, the cause of the malfunction in the motor-operated valve can be determined after the fact by examining the history information stored in the memory. Further, by reading history information from the memory while operating the motor-operated valve, the usage status of the motor-operated valve can be monitored in real time. Thereby, the cause of the problem can be investigated more efficiently.

Additionally, even if there is no malfunction with the motor-operated valve, by examining the usage history of the motor-operated valve based on the history information stored in memory, it is possible to predict future motor-operated valve malfunctions in advance. It is. For example, by checking the history information stored in the memory at an appropriate inspection time, it is possible to predict the timing for parts replacement, etc., so that appropriate maintenance can be performed. Thereby, problems can be avoided.

Furthermore, as mentioned above, by reading history information from the memory while operating the motor-operated valve, it is possible to monitor the usage status of the motor-operated valve in real time. You can also check whether it works properly depending on the usage environment. Therefore, history information can be used for initial operation tests after installing an electric valve. Alternatively, a motorized valve may be installed on a trial basis in piping equipment to collect history information, and the history information may be used to select a motorized valve suitable for the usage environment.

2. further comprising a motor drive detection unit that detects that the motor is being driven;
2. The electric valve according to item 1, wherein the monitor control unit accumulates the motor operation history information in the memory based on detection of drive of the motor by the motor drive detection unit.

According to this configuration, the motor operation history information representing the operation history of the motor is accumulated in the memory based on the detection of the drive of the motor by the motor drive detection unit. Since the motor operation history information is accumulated based on actual detection of motor drive, the accumulated motor operation history information is accurate. Thereby, the reliability of the motor operation history information stored in the memory can be increased.

It may be possible to monitor the motor drive command instead of monitoring the actual drive of the motor, but due to the influence of noise mixed in the command signal, feedback control, etc., the drive command and the actual drive of the motor may be does not necessarily correspond. In particular, if the fluid flowing through the flow path that the motorized valve opens and closes has special properties, or if the environment in which the motorized valve is used is special, the actual behavior of the motor in response to the command signal may not always be as expected. . In such a case, the operation of the electric valve that the user expects does not necessarily match the actual operation status of the electric valve, more specifically, the operation status of the motor. For example, the electrically operated valve may be opened and closed much more frequently than expected by the user, and as a result, the parts of the electrically operated valve may rapidly wear out. In such a case, there is an advantage in monitoring the actual driving of the motor and storing it in a memory as motor operation history information.

3. 3. The electric valve according to item 2, wherein the motor drive detection unit includes a motor energization detection circuit that detects energization to the motor.

According to this configuration, the fact that the motor is being driven is detected by the motor energization detection circuit detecting energization of the motor. Therefore, it is possible to accurately detect that the motor is being driven, and therefore, the reliability of the motor operation history information stored in the memory can be further improved.

4. 4. The electric valve according to any one of Items 1 to 3, wherein the motor operation history information includes motor operation number information representing the number of times the motor operates.

According to this configuration, motor operation number information indicating the number of times the motor operates is stored in the memory. The number of motor operations can be monitored by reading out the motor operation number information stored in the memory.

5. 5. The electric valve according to any one of Items 1 to 4, wherein the motor operation history information includes motor operation time information representing an operation time of the motor.

According to this configuration, motor operating time information representing the operating time of the motor is stored in the memory. The operating time of the motor can be monitored by reading out the motor operating time information stored in the memory.

6. further comprising an environmental sensor for detecting environmental conditions within the housing;
6. The electric valve according to any one of Items 1 to 5, wherein the monitor control unit stores the environmental history information in the memory based on detection of an environmental state within the housing by the environmental sensor.

According to this configuration, the environmental history information representing the environmental history inside the housing is accumulated in the memory based on the detection of the environmental state inside the housing by the environmental sensor. Because environmental history information is accumulated based on actual detection of environmental conditions within the housing, the environmental history within the housing can be accurately monitored. Thereby, the reliability of the environmental history information stored in the memory can be increased.

7. the environmental sensor includes a temperature sensor that detects a temperature within the housing;
Item 7. The electric valve according to Item 6, wherein the environmental history information includes temperature history information representing a temperature history within the housing.

According to this configuration, the temperature history information representing the history of the temperature inside the housing is accumulated in the memory based on the detection of the temperature inside the housing by the temperature sensor. Since temperature history information is accumulated based on actual detection of temperature within the housing, the temperature history within the housing can be accurately monitored. Thereby, the reliability of the temperature history information stored in the memory can be increased.

Motor-operated valves may be used in temperature environments outside the allowable temperature range. In this case, the probability of occurrence of a malfunction in the electric valve increases. By monitoring the temperature inside the housing, it is possible to investigate the cause of malfunctions in the motor-operated valves and to predict the occurrence of malfunctions in the motor-operated valves with high accuracy.

8. Item 8. The motor-operated valve according to Item 7, wherein the temperature history information includes at least one of information on a maximum temperature within the housing during a predetermined period and information on a minimum temperature within the housing during the predetermined period.

According to this configuration, at least one of information on the maximum temperature within the housing during a predetermined period and information on the minimum temperature within the housing during a predetermined period is stored in the memory as temperature history information. By reading out at least one of the maximum temperature and minimum temperature information in the housing stored in the memory, it is possible to check whether the temperature in the housing is within the permissible temperature range of the electric valve. As a result, it is possible to investigate the cause of a malfunction of the motor-operated valve and predict the occurrence of a malfunction of the motor-operated valve with even higher accuracy.

9. 9. The electric valve according to item 7 or 8, wherein the temperature history information includes information on a time during which the temperature within the housing is within a predetermined temperature range.

According to this configuration, information about the time during which the temperature inside the housing is within a predetermined temperature range is stored in the memory as temperature history information. Since the period of use of the motorized valve in a predetermined temperature environment can be monitored, it is possible to investigate the cause of a malfunction of the motorized valve and predict the occurrence of a malfunction of the motorized valve with even higher accuracy.

10. The environmental sensor includes an acceleration sensor that detects acceleration acting on the electric valve,
The electric valve according to any one of Items 6 to 9, wherein the environmental history information includes acceleration history information representing a history of acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor.

According to this configuration, acceleration history information representing a history of acceleration acting on the electric valve is accumulated in the memory based on detection of acceleration acting on the electric valve by the acceleration sensor. Since the acceleration history information is accumulated based on the actual detection of the acceleration acting on the electric valve, the reliability of the acceleration history information accumulated in the memory can be increased.

A motor-operated valve is sometimes used in a state where vibration is applied to the motor-operated valve. When a motor-operated valve is used in such a state, the probability of occurrence of a malfunction in the motor-operated valve increases. By monitoring the acceleration acting on the motor-operated valve, it is possible to investigate the cause of a malfunction of the motor-operated valve and predict the occurrence of a malfunction of the motor-operated valve with high accuracy.

11. Any one of Items 1 to 10, further comprising a terminal block for an electric valve having a wiring board on which the memory and the monitor control unit are mounted, and a terminal block body electrically and mechanically connected to the wiring board. The electric valve according to item 1.

According to this configuration, the memory and the monitor control unit are mounted on the wiring board of the motor-operated valve terminal block. If a member (board) for mounting the memory and monitor control unit is provided in addition to the wiring board for the electric valve terminal block, the number of parts housed in the housing will increase, resulting in an increase in the size of the housing and The internal wiring configuration may become complicated. Since the memory and monitor control unit are mounted on the wiring board of the electric valve terminal block, the memory and monitor control unit can be housed in the housing without increasing the number of parts housed in the housing.

12. The electric valve according to any one of Items 1 to 11, further comprising a power supply circuit connected to a branch power line branched from a power line for energizing the motor and generating operating power for the monitor control unit. .

According to this configuration, the power supply circuit generates operating power for the monitor control unit using the power supplied to the motor, so history information can be stored in the memory using the power supplied to the motor. Therefore, there is no need to provide a separate power supply source for storing history information in the memory.

13. further comprising a connection terminal for connecting a terminal device that reads the history information stored in the memory to the monitor control unit,
Item 12, wherein the power supply circuit is further connected to the connection terminal and generates operating power for the monitor control unit based on the power supplied from the connection terminal or the power supplied from the branch power line. electric valve.

According to this configuration, when the terminal device is connected to the monitor control unit, the power supplied from the terminal device can be used to generate operating power for the monitor control unit.

Electric power is required to send the history information stored in the memory to the terminal device. However, the use of the operating power generated by the power supply circuit based on the power supplied from the branch power line is limited to the period when power is supplied to power the motor. Therefore, by using the operating power generated in the power supply circuit based on the power supplied from the terminal device through the connection terminal, the terminal can store the historical information stored in the memory regardless of whether or not power is being supplied to the motor. It is possible to send the data to the device. In this case, there is no need to provide a separate power supply source for operating power for sending history information.

In short, by adopting this configuration, it is possible to remove the motorized valve from the power line for energizing the motor (more specifically, when removing the motorized valve from piping equipment and inspecting it alone). However, the history information in the memory can be read out to the terminal device without providing a separate power supply source. Also, even if the power line is connected to the motor, the historical information in memory can be stored without operating the motor, i.e. without supplying power to the power line and without providing a separate power supply source. can be read out to a terminal device.

One embodiment of the present invention provides an electric valve system having the following characteristics.

14. The electric valve according to item 13,
The terminal device;
a connection unit that connects the terminal device and the connection terminal,
The connection unit is an electric valve system including a power line that supplies power from the terminal device to the connection terminal, and an isolated DC/DC converter interposed in the power line.

If the terminal device and the connection terminal are electrically connected in a state where the monitor control unit and the terminal device are connected, there is a possibility that the terminal device will be adversely affected by the power supplied from the branch power line.

According to this configuration, since an isolated DC/DC converter (DC voltage converter) is interposed in the power line that supplies power from the terminal device to the connection terminal, the power line on the terminal device side and the connection terminal side Power can be supplied from the terminal device to the connection terminal while insulating the terminal from the power line. Since the power line on the terminal device side and the power line on the connection terminal side are insulated, the terminal device and the connection terminal are connected, and the power line is connected to the power source for feeding power to the motor. However, large amounts of power from the power source can be prevented from entering the terminal device.

15. 15. The electric valve system according to item 14, wherein the connection unit further includes a signal line that transmits a signal between the terminal device and the connection terminal, and a photocoupler interposed in the signal line.

In addition, since a photocoupler is interposed in the signal line that transmits signals between the terminal device and the connection terminal, the signal line on the terminal device side and the signal line on the connection terminal side are insulated, and the signal line between the terminal device and the connection terminal is insulated. Signals can be transmitted between the connection terminals. Since the signal line on the terminal device side and the signal line on the connection terminal side are insulated, it is possible to avoid adverse effects on the terminal device during signal transmission between the terminal device and the connection terminal. In other words, even if the terminal device and the connection terminal are connected and the power line is connected to a power source for feeding power to the motor, large amounts of power from the power source may enter the terminal device via the signal line. can be avoided.

One embodiment of the present invention provides an electric valve monitor unit having the following features.

16. An electric valve monitor unit that monitors an electric valve including an electric actuator that opens and closes a flow path by driving a valve body using a driving force of a motor, and a housing that accommodates the electric actuator,
memory and
An electric valve monitor unit comprising: a monitor control unit that stores history information in the memory, including at least one of motor operation history information representing an operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing an environment history within the housing.

According to this configuration, history information including at least one of motor operation history information representing the operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing the environmental history within the housing is accumulated in the memory. By reading the history information stored in the memory, it is possible to monitor at least one of the operation history of the motor and the environmental history within the housing. That is, it is possible to monitor the usage history of the electric valve. In addition, the effects described with respect to the electric valve in Section 1 can be achieved.

One embodiment of the present invention provides a terminal block device for an electric valve having the following features.

17. An electric valve terminal block device for use in an electric valve, including an electric actuator that opens and closes a flow path by driving a valve body using the driving force of a motor, and a housing that accommodates the electric actuator,
memory and
a monitor control unit that stores history information in the memory, including at least one of motor operation history information representing the operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing the environmental history within the housing;
a wiring board on which the memory and the monitor control unit are mounted;
A terminal block device for an electric valve, comprising: a terminal block main body electrically and mechanically connected to the wiring board.

According to this configuration, history information including at least one of motor operation history information representing the operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing the environmental history within the housing is accumulated in the memory. By reading the history information stored in the memory, it is possible to monitor at least one of the operation history of the motor and the environmental history within the housing. That is, it is possible to provide a terminal block device with a monitoring function that can monitor the usage history of the electric valve. In addition, the effects described with respect to the electric valve in Section 1 can be achieved.

Furthermore, a memory and a monitor control unit are mounted on the wiring board of the motor-operated valve terminal block device. If a board for mounting the memory and monitor control unit is provided separately from the wiring board for the electric valve terminal block device, the number of boards accommodated in the housing will increase, resulting in an increase in the size of the housing and There is a risk that the wiring configuration may become complicated. Since the memory and monitor control unit are mounted on the wiring board of the electric valve terminal block device, the memory and monitor control unit can be accommodated in the housing without increasing the number of boards accommodated in the housing.

In addition, when a malfunction occurs in the motor-operated valve, it is possible to remove only the terminal block device, check the history information stored in the memory, and investigate the cause based on the history information. Therefore, there is no need to remove the motorized valve from the piping equipment even if the cause investigation work is to be carried out at a location different from the site where the motorized valve is installed.

In addition, if the specifications of the mounting part are made common to the terminal block device installed in existing models of motorized valves that do not have a monitoring function, it is possible to upgrade to provide the monitoring function by replacing the terminal block device. I can do it. Thus, for example, a monitoring function can be set as an option. In some cases, it is also possible to replace the electric valve terminal block device installed on site with a terminal block device with a monitoring function.

One embodiment of the present invention provides an electric valve monitoring system having the following features.

18. A valve body that opens and closes the flow path;
an electric actuator that drives the valve body using the driving force of a motor;
a housing that accommodates the electric actuator;
memory and
a monitor control unit that stores history information in the memory, including at least one of motor operation history information representing an operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing an environment history within the housing;
A display section;
An electric valve monitoring system comprising: a display control unit that reads the history information stored in the memory and causes the display unit to display the read history information.

According to this configuration, history information including at least one of motor operation history information representing the operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing the environmental history within the housing is accumulated in the memory. By reading the history information stored in the memory and displaying it on the display unit, at least one of the operation history of the motor and the environment history within the housing can be monitored. In other words, the usage history of the electric valve can be monitored. In addition, the effects described with respect to the electric valve in Section 1 can be achieved.

The electric valve monitoring system described above can typically be realized by the terminal device of the electric valve system described in item 14 or 15 being provided with the functions of the display section and the display control unit.

1 is a perspective view for explaining a configuration example of an electric valve according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining an example of the electrical configuration of an electrically operated valve system including the electrically operated valve. FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining an example of the electrical configuration of a monitor control unit provided in the electric valve. FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining an example of a conceptual storage structure of a memory provided in the electric valve. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an electrical configuration of a computer connected to the motor-operated valve to constitute the motor-operated valve system. FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining an example of an electrical configuration of a connection unit included in the electric valve system. It is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the monitor control unit, and shows an accumulation operation of motor operation history information. It is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the monitor control unit, and shows an operation of accumulating temperature history information. It is a figure which shows an example of the history information monitor screen displayed on the display part of the said computer. It is a figure which shows an example of the history information initialization screen displayed on the said display part. FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining an example of an electrical configuration when the computer is connected to an electric valve terminal block device via the connection unit.

Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view for explaining a configuration example of an electric valve 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electric valve 1 is installed in piping equipment of various facilities such as factories, power plants, plants, water purification facilities, and swimming pools. In other words, it is used while attached to piping, and opens and closes the flow path within the piping.

The electric valve 1 includes a valve body 2 and an electric actuator 3 for opening and closing the valve body 2. The valve body 2 is configured to open and close the flow path 4. For example, the valve body 2 may be a ball valve or a butterfly valve that opens and closes the flow path 4 by rotating within a range of 90 degrees within the flow path 4 in the valve box. Electric actuator 3 includes a motor M.

The electric valve 1 further includes an output shaft 5 to which the valve body 2 is coupled at the tip thereof, and a transmission mechanism 6 that transmits rotation of the motor M of the electric actuator 3 to the output shaft 5. The rotational driving force of the motor M is transmitted to the transmission mechanism 6, and the output shaft 5 rotates, thereby driving the valve body 2 to open and close. A stopper plate 8 is fixed to the output shaft 5. A pair of stopper bolts 9 are arranged to face the stopper plate 8. The pair of stopper bolts 9 are arranged so as to abut against the stopper plate 8 at the fully open position and the fully closed position of the output shaft 5, respectively, to restrict rotation of the output shaft 5. The fully open position is a position where the valve body 2 is fully open, and the fully closed position is a position where the valve body 2 is fully closed.

The transmission mechanism 6 includes a gear head 10 and a pinion 11. The driving force of the motor M is output from the pinion 11 via the gear head 10. The transmission mechanism 6 further includes a spur gear 12 fixed to the output shaft 5 and a plurality of transmission gears 13 that reduce rotation of the pinion 11, amplify torque, and transmit the torque to the spur gear 12.

Two cams 14 are further fixed to the output shaft 5. A limit switch LS1 and a limit switch LS2 are engaged with these cams 14, respectively. The limit switch LS1 is arranged so as to be pushed by the cam 14 and detect the full open position at the rotational phase of the output shaft 5 when the valve body 2 is at the fully open position. The limit switch LS2 is arranged so as to be pushed by the cam 14 and detect the full open position at the rotational phase of the output shaft 5 when the valve body 2 is at the fully open position.

The electric valve 1 further includes a housing 15 that accommodates the electric actuator 3 and a terminal block 16 for the electric valve. The electric valve terminal block 16 is housed within the housing 15. One or more wire entry ports 15a (for example, one in FIG. 1) are formed in the wall surface (for example, the side surface) of the housing 15.

The electric valve terminal block 16 includes a wiring board 17 and a terminal block main body 18 electrically and mechanically connected to the wiring board 17. The terminal block main body 18 includes an open terminal T11, a closed terminal T12, a common terminal T13, and terminals T14, T15, T16, T17, and T18. The motor-operated valve terminal block 16 is for relaying or branching cables connected to electrical components (motor M and various sensors) housed in the motor-operated valve 1. The plurality of cables connected to the motor-operated valve terminal block 16 are respectively connected to the plurality of terminals T11 to T18 of the motor-operated valve terminal block 16 via the inlet 15a. A monitor control unit 19 and a memory 20 are mounted on the wiring board 17.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining an example of the electrical configuration of the electric valve system 100 including the electric valve 1. As shown in FIG. The electric valve system 100 includes an electric valve 1, a connection unit 22, and a computer 23 as an example of a terminal device. The computer 23 is typically a personal computer, but may have other forms such as a tablet terminal or a smartphone.

The electric valve 1 is connected to an AC power source 24 (commercial AC power source) via a power cable 27. A power supply changeover switch 28 is interposed between the AC power supply 24 and the power cable 27. The power supply changeover switch 28 is arranged on an operation panel (not shown) arranged at a location different from the electric valve 1. The power supply changeover switch 28 includes an open contact 141, a close contact 142, and a common contact 143. The power changeover switch 28 may be a manual switch manually operated by a user, or may be an automatic switch switched under automatic control.

The open terminal T11 and the closed terminal T12 of the terminal block body 18 are connected to the open contact 141 and the closed contact 142 of the power changeover switch 28, respectively, via the power cable 27. The common terminal T13 of the terminal block main body 18 is connected to the other terminal of the AC power supply 24 via the power cable 27.

The motor M is, for example, an AC motor (induction motor). For example, the motor M includes a main winding and an auxiliary winding, one end of which is commonly connected, and a phase advancing capacitor C is connected between the other ends. The motor M has an open terminal 146 to which power is supplied when driving the motor M in the opening direction, a closed terminal 147 to which power is supplied when driving the motor M in the closing direction, and a main winding and an auxiliary winding. and a common terminal 148 to which one end of the line is commonly connected. The motor M is supplied with AC power from an AC power source 24 through a first power line 151, a second power line 152, and a third power line 153.

The electric valve terminal block 16 further includes a motor connection terminal 25. The motor connection terminal 25 includes terminals T21, T22, and T23.

The first power line 151, the second power line 152, and the third power line 153 are power lines for supplying electricity to the motor M from the AC power supply 24. The first power line 151 connects the open terminal 146 and the open terminal T11. The first power line 151 includes a power line 151a that connects the open terminal 146 and the terminal T21, and a power line 151b that connects the terminal T21 and the open terminal T11. A limit switch LS1 is installed in the power line 151a. The power line 151b is wired to the wiring board 17 of the electric valve terminal block 16.

The second power line 152 connects the closed terminal 147 and the closed terminal T12. The second power line 152 includes a power line 152a that connects the closed terminal 147 and the terminal T22, and a power line 152b that connects the terminal T22 and the closed terminal T12. A limit switch LS2 is installed in the power line 152a. The power line 152b is wired to the wiring board 17 of the electric valve terminal block 16.

The third power line 153 connects the common terminal 148 of the motor M and the common terminal T13. The third power line 153 includes a power line 153a that connects the common terminal 148 and the terminal T23, and a power line 153b that connects the terminal T23 and the common terminal T13. In addition to the motor M, the electric actuator 3 is equipped with limit switches LS1 and LS2 and a phase advance capacitor C. The power line 153b is wired to the wiring board 17 of the electric valve terminal block 16. A shunt resistor 35 is interposed in the power line 153b.

Signals from various microswitches built into the motor-operated valve 1 are input to five terminals T14, T15, T16, T17, and T18 of the terminal block main body 18 of the motor-operated valve terminal block 16.

The motor-operated valve 1 further includes a motor-operated valve monitor unit 30 that monitors the usage history of the motor-operated valve 1. The electric valve monitor unit 30 includes a monitor control unit 19, a memory 20, a power supply circuit 31, a motor energization detection circuit 32 as an example of a motor drive detection unit that detects that the motor M is being driven, and an environmental sensor. It includes a temperature sensor 33 and a shunt resistor 35 as an example. The motor-operated valve terminal block device BD is constituted by the motor-operated valve monitor unit 30 and the motor-operated valve terminal block 16.

The power supply circuit 31 is a circuit that generates operating power for the monitor control unit 19. The power supply circuit 31 is connected to a branch power line 34a branched from the power line 151b and a branch power line 34b branched from the power line 152b. A first diode D1 for rectification is interposed in the branch power line 34a. A second diode D2 for rectification is interposed in the branch power line 34b. The cathode sides of the first diode D1 and the second diode D2 are commonly connected to the converging and branching power line 34c. A third diode D3 for preventing backflow is interposed in the converging branch power line 34c. The branch power line 34a and the branch power line 34b are connected to the power supply circuit 31 via a converging branch power line 34c and a common power line 36. The power supply circuit 31 is supplied with power from the branch power line 34a or the branch power line 34b.

A monitor control unit 19 , a memory 20 , a motor energization detection circuit 32 , and a temperature sensor 33 are connected to the power supply circuit 31 . The power supply circuit 31 generates operating power for the monitor control unit 19, memory 20, motor energization detection circuit 32, and temperature sensor 33, and supplies the generated operating power to these.

The motor energization detection circuit 32 is a circuit that detects whether or not the motor M is energized, and monitors the current flowing through the motor M (motor current I ₃ ) by detecting the voltage drop that occurs in the shunt resistor 35 when energized. This detects whether or not the motor M is energized. The monitor control unit 19 stores motor operation history information H1 representing the operation history of the motor M in the memory 20 based on the detection of whether or not the motor M is energized by the motor energization detection circuit 32.

The temperature sensor 33 detects the temperature (environmental state) inside the housing 15. Based on the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33, the monitor control unit 19 stores temperature history information (environmental history information) H2 representing the history of the temperature inside the housing 15 in the memory 20.

When the cumulative operating time of the motor M approaches the durable operating time, the probability that the electric valve 1 will fail increases. In addition, the motorized valve 1 may be used in a temperature environment outside the permissible temperature range, the motorized valve 1 opens and closes frequently, or there is an abnormality in the control of the motor M. This may cause valve 1 to malfunction. After a failure occurs in the electric valve 1, the computer 23 reads out the motor operation history information H1 and the temperature history information H2 stored in the memory 20 to check the operation history of the motor M and the temperature history in the housing 15. be able to. When a malfunction such as a failure occurs in the motor-operated valve 1, the cause of the malfunction of the motor-operated valve 1 can be determined after the fact by examining the motor operation history information H1 and temperature history information H2 stored in the memory 20. Further, by reading history information from the memory 20 while operating the motor-operated valve 1, the usage status of the motor-operated valve 1 can be monitored in real time.

The electric valve monitor unit 30 further includes a connection terminal 38 to which the connection unit 22 can be connected. The connection terminal 38 includes a total of four terminals: a power supply terminal 38a, a ground terminal 38b, and two signal exchange terminals 38c and 38d. Each terminal 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d is arranged on the electric valve terminal block 16. The computer 23 can be connected to the connection terminal 38 via the connection unit 22. By connecting the computer 23 to the connection terminal 38, the electric valve monitor unit 30 (that is, the electric valve terminal block device BD) and the computer 23 are connected. In this state, the motor operation history information H1 and temperature history information H2 stored in the memory 20 are read out by the computer 23 and displayed on the computer 23. The electric valve 1 and the computer 23 constitute an electric valve monitoring system 101 .

Although FIG. 2 shows a state in which the computer 23 is connected to the electric valve 1, in a typical usage example, the electric valve 1 is normally operated without the computer 23 being connected. Then, when necessary for inspection or the like, the computer 23 is connected to the electric valve 1, resulting in the state shown in FIG. 2. When the computer 23 is connected to the electric valve 1, the computer 23 can read history information H1 and H2 accumulated in the past from the memory 20. In addition, the computer 23 can also read history information H1 and H2 written in the memory 20 in real time.

The power supply circuit 31 is connected to the terminal 38a via a terminal power line 39. Between the terminal 38a and the power supply circuit 31, a fourth diode D4 is interposed in the terminal power line 39 to prevent backflow.

The cathodes of the third diode D3 and the fourth diode D4 are commonly connected to the common power line 36 to form a diode OR circuit. Therefore, the power supply circuit 31 is supplied with both the power from the branch power lines 34a and 34b and the power from the connection terminal 38. That is, the power supply circuit 31 generates operating power for the electric valve monitor unit 30 based on the power supplied from the branch power lines 34 a and 34 b or the power supplied from the connection terminal 38 .

The connection unit 22 includes a USB (Universal Serial Bus)/serial conversion board 71, a first cable 72 that connects the computer 23 and the USB/serial conversion board 71, and a connection terminal 38 of the electric valve 1 and the USB/serial conversion board. 71. The first cable 72 is, for example, a general-purpose USB cable. The second cable 73 is, for example, a dedicated cable.

When the computer 23 is not connected to the connection terminal 38 of the electric valve monitor unit 30 via the connection unit 22, only the power from the branch power lines 34a and 34b is supplied to the power supply circuit 31. Therefore, the power supply circuit 31 generates operating power for the electric valve monitor unit 30 using the power supplied from the branch power lines 34a and 34b during the period when the motor M is energized, and uses this power to operate the monitor control unit. 19, memory 20, motor energization detection circuit 32, and temperature sensor 33 operate.

On the other hand, when the computer 23 is connected to the connection terminal 38 of the electric valve monitor unit 30 via the connection unit 22, power is supplied to the power supply circuit 31 from the computer 23 via the connection terminal 38. Therefore, the power supply circuit 31 can operate the electric valve monitor unit 30 with the power supplied from the computer 23 regardless of whether or not the motor M is energized. Power supply circuit 31 operates monitor control unit 19 , memory 20 , motor energization detection circuit 32 , and temperature sensor 33 using power from connection terminal 38 .

FIG. 3A is a block diagram for explaining an example of the electrical configuration of the monitor control unit 19 provided in the electric valve 1. FIG.

Monitor control unit 19 includes, for example, a microcomputer. The monitor control unit 19 includes a processor (CPU) 41, a storage section 42 such as a ROM (read only memory) or a RAM (random access memory) that stores various data, and a clock section 43 such as a timer. The monitor control unit 19 executes control operations according to a program installed in advance.

FIG. 3B is a block diagram for explaining an example of a conceptual storage structure of the memory 20 provided in the electric valve 1.

The memory 20 is made up of nonvolatile memory. This nonvolatile memory is constituted by, for example, FeRAM (Ferroelectric Random Access Memory; for example, FRAM (registered trademark)), which is an electrically overwritable read-only memory. The memory 20 includes a motor operation history memory 46 that stores motor operation history information H1, and a first temperature history memory 47 and a second temperature history memory 48 that store temperature history information H2.

The motor operation history memory 46 includes a motor operation number memory 49 for storing information on the cumulative number of operations of the motor M (motor operation number information), and information on the cumulative operation time of the motor M (motor operation time information). A cumulative operating time memory 50 for storing information, an average operating time memory 51 for storing information on the average operating time of the motor M, and a plurality of cumulative operating time information (motor operating time information) for the motor M. It includes a plurality of (seven in the example of FIG. 3B) range-based operating time memories 52 for storing operating time ranges (seven in the example of FIG. 3B). The average operating time stored in the average operating time memory 51 is the time obtained by dividing the cumulative operating time stored in the cumulative operating time memory 50 by the number of times stored in the motor operating number memory 49. It is.

The plurality of range-specific operating time memories 52 include a first time range memory 52a for accumulating information on the cumulative operating time of motor operations of less than 1 second, which is a first time range, and a 1 second time range, which is a second time range. A second time range memory 52b for accumulating information on the cumulative operating time of motor operations of 2 seconds or more and less than 2 seconds, and a third time range for storing information of cumulative operation times of motor operations of 2 seconds or more and less than 6 seconds. A third time range memory 52c for accumulating information, a fourth time range memory 52d for accumulating information on the cumulative operating time of motor operations for a fourth time range of 6 seconds or more and less than 16 seconds, and a fifth time range memory 52d A fifth time range memory 52e for accumulating information on the cumulative operation time of the motor operation in the range of 16 seconds or more and less than 31 seconds, and a sixth time range memory 52e for storing information on the cumulative operation time of the motor operation in the range of 31 seconds or more and less than 60 seconds. It includes a sixth time range memory 52f for storing information on operating time, and a seventh time range memory 52g for storing information on cumulative operating time of motor operations of 60 seconds or more, which is a seventh time range. . The total of the times stored in the plurality of range-specific operating time memories 52 matches the time stored in the cumulative operating time memory 50.

The first temperature history memory 47 includes a maximum temperature memory 47a for storing information on the maximum temperature inside the housing 15 during the measurement period (predetermined period), and stores information on the minimum temperature inside the housing 15 during the measurement period. lowest temperature memory 47b.

The second temperature history memory 48 includes a cumulative measurement time memory 53 for storing cumulative measurement time information, and a cumulative measurement time memory 53 for storing cumulative measurement time information for each of multiple (10 in the example of FIG. 3B) temperature ranges. A plurality of (10 in the example of FIG. 3B) range-based measurement time memories 54 are included for each range. Each range-specific measurement time memory 54 stores information about the time during which the temperature inside the housing 15 is within a predetermined temperature range. The plurality of range-specific measurement time memories 54 include a first temperature range memory 54a for accumulating information on cumulative measurement times in a first temperature range of less than 0°C, and a second temperature range of 0°C or higher. A second temperature range memory 54b for accumulating information on cumulative measurement times at temperatures below 10°C, and a third temperature range memory 54b for accumulating information on cumulative measurement times at temperatures of 10°C or higher and less than 20°C. a third temperature range memory 54c, a fourth temperature range memory 54d for accumulating information on the cumulative measurement time at a temperature of 20° C. or more and less than 30° C., which is a fourth temperature range, and a fifth temperature range of 30° C. A fifth temperature range memory 54e for accumulating information on cumulative measurement times at temperatures above 40°C and below 40°C, and a sixth temperature range storing information on cumulative measurement times at temperatures above 40°C and below 50°C. A sixth temperature range memory 54f for storing data in the seventh temperature range, a seventh temperature range memory 54g for storing information on cumulative measurement times in the seventh temperature range of 50°C or higher and lower than 60°C; An eighth temperature range memory 54h for accumulating information on cumulative measurement time at a certain temperature of 60°C or higher and lower than 70°C, and information on cumulative measurement time at a ninth temperature range of 70°C or higher and lower than 80°C. and a tenth temperature range memory 54k for storing information on cumulative measurement times at temperatures of 80° C. or higher, which is a tenth temperature range. The total time stored in the ten range-based measurement time memories 54 (first temperature range memory 54a to tenth temperature range memory 54k) matches the time stored in the cumulative measurement time memory 53.

Since the memory 20 is composed of FeRAM that exhibits high rewriting durability, the memories included in the memory 20 (maximum temperature memory 47a, minimum temperature memory 47b, motor operation number memory 49, cumulative operation time memory 50, average operation The time memory 51, the operating time memory 52 for each range, the cumulative measurement time memory 53, and the measurement time memory 54 for each range are allowed to be written many times. Specifically, the upper limit of the number of operations that can be written in the motor operation number memory 49 is about 4.3 billion. The upper limit of the time that can be written in the cumulative operating time memory 50, average operating time memory 51, and each range operating time memory 52 is approximately 34 years. The upper limit of the time that can be written into the cumulative measurement time memory 53 and the range-based measurement time memory 54 is about 136 years.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining an example of the electrical configuration of the computer 23 (an example of a terminal device) that is connected to the electric valve 1 and constitutes the electric valve system 100.

The computer 23 includes a control section 61 (display control unit), a display section 62, a storage section 63, an input section 64, a communication interface section 65, and a power supply section 66. A display section 62 , a storage section 63 , an input section 64 , and a communication interface section 65 are electrically connected to the control section 61 .

The control unit 61 is configured by a microcomputer including a processor (CPU) 61a, a ROM 61b, and a RAM 61c. The processor 61a executes the program read from the ROM 61b while using the RAM 61c as a work area, thereby controlling the computer 23 in an integrated manner. The display section 62 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The storage unit 63 is a storage device such as a hard disk or a semiconductor storage device, and stores various information. The storage unit 63 may be built-in or externally attached. The input unit 64 is, for example, a keyboard, a pointing device, etc., and inputs instructions from an operator into the apparatus. The power supply unit 66 converts AC power supplied from a commercial power source (not shown) through a power cord (not shown) into DC power, and supplies the control unit 61, display unit 62, storage unit 63, input unit 64, and The signal is supplied to the communication interface section 65.

Communication interface section 65 includes a USB port 67. The USB port 67 includes a power supply terminal 67a, a ground terminal 67b, and two signal exchange terminals 67c and 67d. The USB port 67 exchanges data with an external device connected to the USB port 67 according to a protocol compliant with the USB standard. Further, the USB port 67 supplies the power supplied from the power supply section 66 to an external device connected to the USB port 67 using a bus power method.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram for explaining an example of the electrical configuration of the connection unit 22 provided in the electric valve system 100.

The USB/serial conversion board 71 provided in the connection unit 22 includes two boards that connect the first connection terminal part 74 and the second connection terminal part 75, and the first connection terminal part 74 and the second connection terminal part 75. a power line 76, two signal lines 77 connecting the first connection terminal section 74 and the second connection terminal section 75, and a USB/serial conversion IC interposed in both the power line 76 and the signal line 77. (integrated circuit) 78.

The first connection terminal section 74 includes a total of four terminals: a power supply terminal 74a, a ground terminal 74b, and two signal terminals 74c and 74d. The second connection terminal section 75 includes a total of four terminals: a power supply terminal 75a, a ground terminal 75b, and two signal terminals 75c and 75d.

The power line 76 includes a power supply line 76a for supplying a DC (direct current) voltage (for example, 5.0V) as a bus voltage, and a ground line 76b as a reference potential line. Power line 76a connects terminal 74a and terminal 75a. The ground line 76b connects the terminal 74b and the terminal 75b. The two power lines 76 supply power between the first connection terminal section 74 and the second connection terminal section 75.

The signal line 77 includes a first signal line 77a and a second signal line 77b. The first signal line 77a is a line that connects the terminal 74c and the terminal 75c, and sends a signal from the terminal 74c to the terminal 75c. The second signal line 77b is a line that connects the terminal 74d and the terminal 75d, and sends a signal from the terminal 75d to the terminal 74d. The two signal lines 77 transmit and receive signals between the first connection terminal section 74 and the second connection terminal section 75.

The USB/serial conversion IC 78 performs communication protocol conversion processing. The USB/serial conversion IC 78 supplies the power supplied from the first connection terminal section 74 to the second connection terminal section 75 .

The USB/serial conversion board 71 includes an isolated DC/DC converter (DC voltage converter) 79 connected to the power line 76, and a transmission photocoupler (photocoupler) 80 connected to the first signal line 77a. and a reception photocoupler 81 (photocoupler) interposed in the second signal line 77b.

Isolated DC/DC converter 79 includes a transformer 82 . In the isolated DC/DC converter 79, a diode (not shown) is interposed on the second connection terminal portion 75 side with respect to the transformer 82, and the voltage generated by the transformer 82 is rectified by this diode. By interposing the isolated DC/DC converter 79 in the power line 76, the power line 76 on the first connection terminal section 74 side and the power line 76 on the second connection terminal section 75 side are insulated, and the first Electric power can be transmitted from the connection terminal section 74 to the second connection terminal section 75.

The transmission photocoupler 80 connects a light emitting diode LD1, which is a light emitting element that is turned on/off (light emission/non-emission) according to a transmission signal from the first connection terminal section 74, and a second connection terminal section for the light emitting diode LD1. and a phototransistor PT1 arranged on the 75 side. The light emitting diode LD1 and the phototransistor PT1 are optically coupled, and the phototransistor PT1 conducts/cuts off depending on whether the light emitting diode LD1 emits or does not emit light. A state where the first signal line 77a on the first connection terminal section 74 side and the first signal line 77a on the second connection terminal section 75 side are insulated by interposing the transmission photocoupler 80 on the first signal line 77a. Thus, a signal can be sent from the first connection terminal section 74 to the second connection terminal section 75.

The receiving photocoupler 81 connects a light emitting diode LD2, which is a light emitting element that is turned on/off (light emission/non-emission) according to a received signal from the second connection terminal section 75, and a first connection terminal section for the light emitting diode LD2. and a phototransistor PT2 arranged on the 74 side. The light emitting diode LD2 and the phototransistor PT2 are optically coupled, and the phototransistor PT2 conducts/cuts off depending on whether the light emitting diode LD2 emits light or does not emit light. A state where the second signal line 77b on the first connection terminal section 74 side and the second signal line 77b on the second connection terminal section 75 side are insulated by interposing the reception photocoupler 81 on the second signal line 77b. Thus, a signal can be sent from the second connection terminal section 75 to the first connection terminal section 74.

The first cable 72 includes a plug 72a at one end and a terminal 72b at the other end. The plug 72a is connected to the USB port 67 of the computer 23, and the terminal 72b is connected to the first connection terminal section 74 of the USB/serial conversion board 71, thereby connecting the computer 23 and the USB/serial conversion board 71 with the first cable. 72.

The second cable 73 includes a terminal 73a at one end and a plug 73b at the other end. By connecting the terminal 73a to the connection terminal 38 arranged on the motorized valve terminal block 16 of the motorized valve 1 and connecting the plug 73b to the second connection terminal section 75 of the USB/serial conversion board 71, the motorized valve monitor unit can be connected. 30 and the USB/serial conversion board 71 are connected by a second cable 73.

When the history information stored in the memory 20 is to be read out and monitored by the computer 23, the operator connects the plug 72a at one end of the first cable 72 with the terminal 72b connected to the USB/serial conversion board 71 to the computer 23. The terminal 73a of the second cable 73, which is connected to the USB port 67 of the second cable 73 and whose plug 73b is connected to the USB/serial conversion board 71, is connected to the connection terminal 38 of the electric valve monitor unit 30. Thereby, the computer 23 and the connection terminal 38 are connected via the connection unit 22.

When the computer 23 and the connection terminal 38 are connected, the terminal 67a and the terminal 67b of the USB port 67 of the computer 23 are electrically connected to the terminal 38a and the terminal 38b of the connection terminal 38, respectively. At this time, when the computer 23 is in the activated state, power (USB bus power) from the power supply section 66 of the computer 23 is supplied to the power supply circuit 31 of the electric valve monitor unit 30 via the USB port 67 and the connection terminal 38. be done.

Since an isolated DC/DC converter 79 is interposed in the power line 76 that supplies power from the computer 23 to the connection terminal 38, the power line 76 on the computer 23 side and the power line 76 on the connection terminal 38 side are isolated. At the same time, power can be supplied from the computer 23 to the connection terminal 38. Since the power line 76 on the computer 23 side and the power line 76 on the connection terminal 38 side are insulated, the computer 23 and the connection terminal 38 are connected, and the power lines 151b and 152b are used to supply power to the motor M. Even if the computer 23 is connected to the AC power source 24 of the AC power source 24 , it is possible to prevent large electric power from the AC power source 24 from entering the computer 23 via the power line 76 .

Further, when the computer 23 and the connection terminal 38 are connected by the connection unit 22, the terminal 67c and the terminal 67d of the USB port 67 of the computer 23 are electrically connected to the terminal 38c and the terminal 38d of the connection terminal 38, respectively. There is. At this time, control signals and the like from the control section 61 of the computer 23 are sent to the monitor control unit 19 of the electric valve monitor unit 30 via the terminal 67c of the USB port 67 and the terminal 38c of the connection terminal 38. Further, history information stored in the memory 20 of the electric valve monitor unit 30 is sent to the control unit 61 of the computer 23 via the terminal 38d of the connection terminal 38 and the terminal 67d of the USB port 67.

Further, since the first signal line 77a and the second signal line 77b, which transmit signals between the computer 23 and the connection terminal 38, are provided with a transmitting photocoupler 80 and a receiving photocoupler 81, respectively, the computer Signals can be transmitted between the computer 23 and the connection terminal 38 while insulating the signal line 77 on the computer 23 side (the first signal line 77a and the second signal line 77b) from the signal line 77 on the connection terminal 38 side. Since the signal line 77 on the computer 23 side and the signal line 77 on the connection terminal 38 side are insulated, the computer 23 and the connection terminal 38 are connected, and the power lines 151b and 152b are used to supply power to the motor M. Even if the computer 23 is connected to the AC power source 24 of the computer 23, the large power from the AC power source 24 can be prevented from entering the computer 23 via the signal line 77.

The motor-operated valve 1 is used in a state where the motor-operated valve 1 is installed in piping equipment. History information, which is a history of the usage status of the electric valve 1, is stored in the memory 20 by the monitor control unit 19. Since the computer 23 is not connected to the electric valve 1 during normal use of the electric valve 1, history information is accumulated in the memory 20 while the computer 23 is not connected to the connection terminal 38 of the electric valve 1. The history information stored in the memory 20 is motor operation history information H1 representing the operation history of the motor M, and temperature history information H2 representing the history of the temperature within the housing 15.

When the computer 23 is not connected to the connection terminal 38 of the electric valve 1, no power is supplied to the connection terminal 38, and the power supply circuit 31 receives power only from the branch power lines 34a and 34b during the energization period to the motor M. is supplied to The power supply circuit 31 uses the power from the branch power lines 34a and 34b to generate operating power for the monitor control unit 19, memory 20, motor energization detection circuit 32, and temperature sensor 33, and the generated operating power is supplied to these. Ru. The monitor control unit 19, memory 20, motor energization detection circuit 32, and temperature sensor 33 operate based on the power generated based only on the power supplied from the branch power lines 34a and 34b, and history information is accumulated in the memory 20. be done. Since the history information is stored in the memory 20 using the power supplied from the AC power supply 24 to the motor M, there is no need to provide a separate power supply source for storing the history information in the memory 20.

The operation of storing history information in the memory 20 by the monitor control unit 19 will be described below.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart for explaining an example of an operation that the monitor control unit 19 repeats at a predetermined cycle, and shows an operation for accumulating motor operation history information H1. The motor operation history information H1 stored in the memory 20 includes motor operation number information indicating the number of times the motor M operates, and motor operation time information indicating the operation time of the motor M. The operation of storing the motor operation history information H1 in the motor operation history memory 46 will be explained with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4 and FIG. 6.

When the electric valve 1 starts to be used, the motor operation history memory 46 is reset, and an initial value is written in the motor operation history memory 46. Furthermore, the motor operation history memory 46 can be reset by connecting the computer 23 to the electric valve 1 at an appropriate time such as during inspection.

When the electric valve 1 is operated, AC power from the AC power source 24 is supplied to the motor M via the first power line 151, the second power line 152, and the third power line 153. Then, the motor energization detection circuit 32 is activated in response to the supply of operating power from the power supply circuit 31, and the motor current I ₃ (see FIG. 2) flowing through the converging branch power line 34c is detected.

The monitor control unit 19 similarly operates by receiving power from the power supply circuit 31. The monitor control unit 19 acquires the motor current I ₃ detected by the motor energization detection circuit 32 (step S1). The monitor control unit 19 monitors whether the motor current I3 detected by the motor energization detection circuit ₃₂ exceeds a predetermined current threshold (for example, zero ampere) (step S2), and thereby energizes the motor M. In other words, it is determined whether the motor M is operating. The current threshold value is such that when the motor M is energized, the detected current of the motor energization detection circuit 32 exceeds the current threshold value, and when the motor M is not energized, the detected current of the motor energization detection circuit 32 is less than or equal to the current threshold value. It is set so that

If the detected current of the motor energization detection circuit 32 exceeds the current threshold (step S2: YES), then it is checked whether the current was not energized until just before, that is, whether it is the timing to start energizing the motor M. It will be done. Specifically, the processor 41 checks whether the energization flag indicating that the motor M is energized is off (step S3). If it is the start timing to start energizing the motor M, the energization flag is off. If the power is being supplied, the power supply flag is on.

If the energization flag is off in step S3 (step S3: YES), the processor 41 of the monitor control unit 19 determines that it is time to start energizing the motor M. Then, the processor 41 increments (+1) the number of times stored in the motor operation number memory 49 (step S4). As a result, the information on the cumulative number of operations of the motor M stored in the motor operation number memory 49 is updated. Furthermore, the processor 41 turns on the energization flag (step S5). Further, the processor 41 gives a measurement start command to the timer section 43. When the measurement start command is given to the timer section 43, the timer unit 43 resets the timer and then starts the timer (step S6). As a result, when a current exceeding the threshold is detected in a state in which current has not been applied until just before, the timer section 43 starts measuring the energization time. The energization flag can also be said to be a flag indicating whether or not the energization time is being measured.

During the energization after the start of energization of the motor M (step S2: YES), the energization flag is on in the subsequent control cycle (step S3: NO). Therefore, the measurement of the energization time by the timer 43 continues.

On the other hand, if the detected current is less than or equal to the current threshold in step S2 (step S2: NO), then the next step is to determine whether the energization flag is on, that is, whether it was energized until just before (more specifically, whether the energization time was being measured). ) is checked (step S7). If it is the stop timing at which the energization to the motor M is stopped, the energization flag is on. If there is no energization immediately before (in other words, if the energization time is not being measured), the energization flag is off.

If the energization flag is on in step S7 (step S7: YES), the processor 41 determines that it is time to stop energizing the motor M. Then, the processor 41 turns off the energization flag (step S8). Further, the processor 41 gives a measurement stop command to the timer section 43. Thereby, the measurement of the energization time by the timer 43 ends (step S9). Therefore, the timer 43 starts timekeeping when the motor current _I3 exceeds the threshold value, and ends timekeeping when the motor current _I3 becomes less than or equal to the threshold value. It will stop.

Then, the processor 41 adds the energization time measured by the timer 43 to the time stored in the cumulative operating time memory 50 (step S10). As a result, the information on the cumulative operating time of the motor M stored in the cumulative operating time memory 50 is updated.

Further, the processor 41 of the monitor control unit 19 adds the calculated current energization time to the time stored in the corresponding range-based operating time memory 52 (step S11). When the calculated current energization time is, for example, 3 seconds, the corresponding range-specific operation time memory 52 is the third time range memory 52c, so the energization time is set to the time stored in the third time range memory 52c. will be added. Further, when the calculated energization time is, for example, 8 seconds, the corresponding range-based operating time memory 52 is the fourth time range memory 52d, so the energization time is equal to the time stored in the fourth time range memory 52d. will be added. As a result, the information on the cumulative operating time for each operating time stored in the range-based operating time memory 52 is updated.

Furthermore, the monitor control unit 19 calculates the average operating time of the motor M, including the calculated current energization time, and adds the calculated time to the average operating time memory 51. As a result, the information on the average operating time of the motor M stored in the average operating time memory 51 is updated (step S12). Thereafter, the process in FIG. 6 is completed and the process returns.

On the other hand, if the energization flag is off in step S7 (step S7: NO), that is, if the energization time is not being measured, the process in FIG. 6 is returned.

Note that when the power supply to the motor M is stopped, the power supply to the power supply circuit 31 is also stopped, and accordingly, the supply of operating power to the monitor control unit 19 is also stopped. However, the power supply circuit 31 is configured to maintain the operating power supply to the monitor control unit 19 for a certain period of time after the power supply to the power lines 151, 152, and 153 stops. As a result, when the motor current I ₃ becomes equal to or less than the threshold value (step S2: NO), the monitor control unit 19 executes the processes of steps S7 to S12 and monitors the cumulative operating time, energization time, and average operating time. Can be written to the corresponding memory.

In addition, in the example of FIG. 6, the method of determining whether to start energizing the motor M by detecting the motor current I ₃ exceeding the current threshold in a state where it was not energized until just before (the energization flag is off) is adopted. Instead of this method, a method may be adopted in which the start of energization to the motor M is determined by detecting the rise of the current (more specifically, by detecting the rise waveform of the motor current _I3 ). good.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart for explaining an example of another operation that the monitor control unit 19 repeats at a predetermined cycle (not necessarily the same cycle as the process in FIG. 6), and includes an operation for accumulating temperature history information H2. It shows. The temperature history information H2 stored in the memory 20 includes information on the maximum temperature inside the housing 15 during the measurement period, information on the minimum temperature inside the housing 15 during the measurement period, and information on whether the temperature inside the housing 15 is within a predetermined temperature range. Contains information about the time in . The operation of storing the temperature history information H2 in the first temperature history memory 47 and the second temperature history memory 48 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 4 and FIG. 7.

After the first temperature history memory 47 and the second temperature history memory 48 are reset (the initial values are written to the first temperature history memory 47 and the second temperature history memory 48), the electric valve 1 is attached to the piping equipment. .

Temperature sensor 33 detects the temperature inside housing 15. The monitor control unit 19 acquires the temperature inside the housing 15 detected by the temperature sensor 33 (step S21).

If the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33 is higher than the temperature information stored in the maximum temperature memory 47a at that time (step S22: YES), the processor 41 of the monitor control unit 19 stores the detected temperature in the maximum temperature memory 47a. Override temperature. As a result, the maximum temperature information stored in the maximum temperature memory 47a is updated (step S23).

Further, if the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33 is lower than the temperature information stored in the minimum temperature memory 47b at that time (step S24: YES), the processor 41 of the monitor control unit 19 controls the temperature information stored in the minimum temperature memory 47b. overwrite the detected temperature. As a result, the minimum temperature information stored in the minimum temperature memory 47b is updated (step S25).

On the other hand, whether the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33 is the same as the temperature information stored in the maximum temperature memory 47a and the temperature information stored in the minimum temperature memory 47b at that time, or whether these two temperature information If the temperature is between (step S22: NO and step S24: NO), the processes of steps S23 and S25 are skipped.

Further, the time measuring section 43 of the monitor control unit 19 measures the passage of time. The processor 41 of the monitor control unit 19 updates the cumulative measured time information stored in the cumulative measured time memory 53 based on the time measured by the timer 43 (step S26).

Furthermore, the monitor control unit 19 determines to which temperature range the temperature detected by the temperature sensor 33 belongs among a plurality of temperature ranges (first temperature range to tenth temperature range). The processor 41 of the monitor control unit 19 calculates, based on the time measurement by the clock section 43 and the measurement by the temperature sensor 33, the cumulative total of temperature ranges accumulated in the range measurement time memory 54 corresponding to the temperature range to which the measured temperature belongs. The information on the measurement time is updated (step S27). Thereafter, the process in FIG. 7 is completed and the process returns.

Next, a case will be described in which history information stored in the memory 20 of the electric valve monitor unit 30 is read out by the computer 23 and monitored on the display section 62 of the computer 23. As a method for reading history information stored in the memory 20 of the electric valve monitor unit 30 by the computer 23, history information is read from the electric valve monitor unit 30 of the electric valve 1 when the electric valve 1 is installed in piping equipment. There are two modes: a first mode in which the history information is read out, and a second mode in which the history information is read out from the motorized valve monitor unit 30 with the motorized valve 1 removed from the piping equipment or the motorized valve monitor unit 30 removed from the motorized valve 1. be. Reading in the first mode is performed during inspection and maintenance of the electric valve 1 in a facility. In the first mode of reading, the motor-operated valve terminal block device BD, which includes the motor-operated valve monitor unit 30 and the motor-operated valve terminal block 16, is attached to the motor-operated valve 1. Readout in the first mode will be described below. Readout in the second mode will be described later.

Reading in the first mode may be performed while the AC power supply 24 is connected to the electric valve 1. More specifically, it may be performed in the normal usage state of the electric valve 1, and in that case, when supplying electric power to the motor M to operate the electric valve 1, the electric power lines 151, 152, 153 are connected. AC power is supplied. For example, during inspection and maintenance of the electric valve 1, a maintenance worker goes to the installation location of the electric valve 1 and reads history information from the electric valve 1 using the computer 23 that he/she carries.

Specifically, the operator (i.e., maintenance worker) connects the plug 72a at one end of the first cable 72 to the computer 23, and connects the terminal 73a at one end of the second cable 73 to the connection terminal of the electric valve monitor unit 30. Connect to 38. Thereby, the computer 23 and the connection terminal 38 are connected by the connection unit 22. When the computer 23 is in the activated state, power from the computer 23 by USB bus power is supplied to the electric valve monitor unit 30 via the connection terminal 38.

Then, the operator operates the input unit 64 of the computer 23 to start the application program. Thereby, the control unit 61 of the computer 23 starts processing by the application program. The control unit 61 may display a communication setting screen (not shown) on the display unit 62. On this communication setting screen, the operator can operate the input section 64 to select the USB port 67 used for connection with the electric valve monitor unit 30 from among the plurality of USB ports provided in the computer 23. You can. If necessary, after the USB port 67 is selected on the communication setting screen, the control unit 61 displays the history information monitor screen 110 on the display unit 62 of the computer 23. The application program may be designed to automatically select the USB port to which the electric valve monitor unit 30 is connected and display the history information monitor screen 110.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the history information monitor screen 110 displayed on the display unit 62 of the computer 23. The history information monitor screen 110 displays a title 110a, a motor operation history display section 111, a first temperature history display section 112, and a second temperature history display section 113. With reference to FIGS. 2 to 8, monitoring of history information by the display unit 62 of the computer 23 will be described.

The control unit 61 of the computer 23 instructs the monitor control unit 19 of the electric valve monitor unit 30 to retrieve history information from the memory 20 via the USB port 67 and the connection terminal 38. The monitor control unit 19 takes out the motor operation history information H1 and the temperature history information H2 from the memory 20 and provides them to the control section 61 of the computer 23. The control unit 61 of the computer 23 controls the motor operation history display section 111 and the first temperature history display section of the history information monitor screen 110 based on the motor operation history information H1 and temperature history information H2 received from the electric valve monitor unit 30. 112 and a second temperature history display section 113 are displayed.

The monitor control unit 19 extracts the motor operation history information H1 and the temperature history information H2 using the operating power generated by the power supply circuit 31 based on the power supplied from the computer 23 via the connection terminal 38.

Electric power is required to send the history information stored in the memory 20 to the computer 23. However, the use of the operating power generated by the power supply circuit 31 based on the power supplied from the branch power lines 34a and 34b is limited to the period in which the power for feeding the motor M is supplied. Therefore, by using the operating power generated in the power supply circuit 31 based on the power supplied from the computer 23 via the connection terminal 38, the power stored in the memory 20 is used regardless of whether or not power is being supplied to the motor M. It is possible to send history information to the computer 23. In this case, there is no need to provide a separate power supply source for operating power for sending history information.

The motor operation history display section 111 includes a motor operation number display section 114 that displays information on the cumulative number of operations of the motor M, a cumulative operation time display section 115 that corresponds to the motor operation time of the motor M, and an information on the average number of operations of the motor M. An average operating time display section 116 that displays information on the operating time, and a plurality of ranges (seven in the example of FIG. 8) that display information on the cumulative operating time of the motor M for each operating time range of the motor M. and a separate operation time display section 117. The plurality of range-specific operating time display sections 117 include a first time range display section 117a corresponding to the motor operating time in the first time range, and a second time range display section 117b corresponding to the motor operating time in the second time range. , a third time range display section 117c corresponding to the motor operating time in the third time range, a fourth time range display section 117d corresponding to the motor operating time in the fourth time range, and a third time range display section 117d corresponding to the motor operating time in the fifth time range. A corresponding fifth time range display section 117e, a sixth time range display section 117f corresponding to the motor operation time of the sixth time range, and a seventh time range display section 117g corresponding to the motor operation time of the seventh time range. ,including.

The motor operation history information H1 received by the control unit 61 from the electric valve monitor unit 30 includes the number information stored in the motor operation number memory 49 and the time stored in the cumulative operation time memory 50 and the average operation time memory 51. information and time information stored in a plurality of range-based operating time memories 52. The control unit 61 displays the number of times information stored in the motor operation number memory 49 on the motor operation number display unit 114, and displays the time information stored in the cumulative operation time memory 50 and the average operation time memory 51, respectively. It is displayed on the cumulative operation time display section 115 and the average operation time display section 116. Further, the control unit 61 displays the time information stored in the first time range memory 52a to the seventh time range memory 52g on the first time range display section 117a to the seventh time range display section 117g, respectively.

One of the causes of failure of the electric valve 1 is that the electric valve 1 is opened and closed frequently. If the frequency of opening and closing of the electric valve 1 is high, the load on the electric actuator 3 and the transmission mechanism 6 will increase, and the probability of failure of these will increase. When the frequency of opening and closing of the electric valve 1 is high, the frequency of operation of the motor M becomes high. Another cause of failure of the electric valve 1 is that there is an abnormality in the control of the motor M, but in this case as well, the frequency of operation of the motor M may increase.

When the motor M operates at a high frequency, the number of operations of the motor M displayed on the motor operation number display section 114 increases, and the average operation time of the motor M displayed on the average operation time display section 116 becomes shorter. . Accordingly, from the display contents of the motor operation number display section 114 and the display contents of the average operation time display section 116, the operator can determine whether or not the motor M has been operated at a high frequency, that is, the valve body 2 is opened and closed at a high frequency. It is possible to determine whether or not it has been done.

Further, from the display contents of the cumulative operating time display section 115, the operator can grasp the cumulative operating time of the motor M, and can determine whether the cumulative operating time of the motor M is approaching the durable operating time.

Furthermore, if there is an abnormality in the control of the motor M, the operating time of the motor M may differ from the expected operating time. From the display contents of the plurality of range-specific operating time display sections 117, the operator can grasp the motor operating time of the motor M for each operating time range. Thereby, it can be determined whether the operating time of the motor M is different from the expected operating time.

The first temperature history display section 112 includes a maximum temperature display section 112a that displays information on the maximum temperature inside the housing 15 during the measurement period, and a minimum temperature display section 112a that displays information on the minimum temperature inside the housing 15 during the measurement period. 112b.

The second temperature history display unit 113 includes a cumulative measurement time display unit 118 that displays information on cumulative measurement time, and a plurality of cumulative measurement time display units (in the example of FIG. 10) range-specific measurement time display sections 119. The plurality of range-specific measurement time display sections 119 include a first temperature range display section 119a corresponding to the temperature in the first temperature range, a second temperature range display section 119b corresponding to the temperature in the second temperature range, and a third temperature range display section 119a corresponding to the temperature in the second temperature range. A third temperature range display section 119c corresponding to the temperature in the range, a fourth temperature range display section 119d corresponding to the temperature in the fourth temperature range, and a fifth temperature range display section 119e corresponding to the temperature in the fifth temperature range. , a sixth temperature range display section 119f corresponding to the temperature in the sixth temperature range, a seventh temperature range display section 119g corresponding to the temperature in the seventh temperature range, and an eighth temperature range corresponding to the temperature in the eighth temperature range. It includes a display section 119h, a ninth temperature range display section 119j corresponding to the temperature in the ninth temperature range, and a tenth temperature range display section 119k corresponding to the temperature in the tenth temperature range.

The temperature history information H2 that the control unit 61 received from the electric valve monitor unit 30 includes temperature information stored in the maximum temperature memory 47a and minimum temperature memory 47b, and time information stored in the cumulative measurement time memory 53. time information stored in a plurality of range-specific measurement time memories 54.

The control unit 61 displays the temperature information stored in the maximum temperature memory 47a and the minimum temperature memory 47b on the maximum temperature display section 112a and the minimum temperature display section 112b, respectively. Further, the control unit 61 displays the measurement times stored in the first temperature range memory 54a to the tenth temperature range memory 54k on the first temperature range display section 119a to the tenth temperature range display section 119k, respectively.

The electric valve 1 may be used in a temperature environment outside the allowable temperature range. When used in such a temperature environment, the probability of occurrence of a malfunction in the electric valve 1 increases. From the contents displayed on the maximum temperature display section 112a and the minimum temperature display section 112b, the operator can grasp the temperature range inside the housing 15 under actual usage conditions, and can determine whether or not the housing 15 is being used within the allowable temperature range.

The control unit 61 displays the time information stored in the cumulative measurement time memory 53 on the cumulative measurement time display unit 118. The cumulative measurement time information displayed on the cumulative measurement time display section 118 is the cumulative amount of time displayed on the plurality of range-specific measurement time display sections 119.

The history information monitor screen 110 further displays a communication status display section 120 that displays the communication status between the USB port 67 of the computer 23 and the connection terminal 38 of the electric valve monitor unit 30. The control unit 61 checks the communication status between the USB port 67 and the connection terminal 38, and indicates "〇 (good)" when the communication status is good, and indicates "x (bad)" when the communication status is poor. It is displayed on the status display section 120.

At the bottom of the history information monitor screen 110, a file output key 121, a screen save key 122, an initialization screen key 123, and an end key 124, which can be operated by the input unit 64, are displayed. When the file output key 121 is operated on the history information monitor screen 110, data corresponding to the display contents of the history information monitor screen 110 is output from the computer 23 to an external device connected to the computer 23 as a file. When the screen save key 122 is operated on the history information monitor screen 110, the display contents of the history information monitor screen 110 are saved as an image. When the initialization screen key 123 is operated on the history information monitor screen 110, a history information initialization screen 130 (see FIG. 9) for resetting history information is newly displayed on the display unit 62 of the computer 23. When the end key 124 is operated on the history information monitor screen 110, the history information monitor screen 110 is closed.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the history information initialization screen 130 displayed on the display unit 62. Resetting history information will be explained with reference to FIGS. 2 to 5 and FIG. 9.

The history information initialization screen 130 displays a title 130a and a motor history clear key 131, a first temperature history clear key 132, a second temperature history clear key 133, and an all clear key 134 that can be operated by the input unit 64. ing. By operating these keys, the history information stored in the memory 20 of the electric valve monitor unit 30 is reset.

Specifically, when the motor history clear key 131 is operated on the history information initialization screen 130, the control unit 61 resets the motor operation history memory 46 via the USB port 67 and the connection terminal 38. The monitor control unit 19 of the monitor unit 30 is instructed. The monitor control unit 19 resets the stored contents of the motor operation history memory 46 of the memory 20. On the other hand, the stored contents of the first temperature history memory 47 and the second temperature history memory 48 are maintained as they are.

Further, when the first temperature history clear key 132 is operated on the history information initialization screen 130, the control unit 61 resets the first temperature history memory 47 via the USB port 67 and the connection terminal 38, and performs monitor control. Instruct unit 19. The monitor control unit 19 resets the stored contents of the first temperature history memory 47 of the memory 20. On the other hand, the stored contents of the motor operation history memory 46 and the second temperature history memory 48 are maintained as they are.

When the second temperature history clear key 133 is operated on the history information initialization screen 130, the control unit 61 resets the second temperature history memory 48 via the USB port 67 and the connection terminal 38, and the monitor control unit 19 instruct. The monitor control unit 19 resets the stored contents of the second temperature history memory 48 of the memory 20. On the other hand, the stored contents of the motor operation history memory 46 and the first temperature history memory 47 are maintained as they are.

When the all clear key 134 is operated on the history information initialization screen 130, the control unit 61 clears the motor operation history memory 46, the first temperature history memory 47, and the second temperature history via the USB port 67 and the connection terminal 38. Instructs the monitor control unit 19 to reset the memory 48. The monitor control unit 19 resets the stored contents of the motor operation history memory 46, the first temperature history memory 47, and the second temperature history memory 48.

The history information initialization screen 130 further displays a screen end key 135. When the screen end key 135 is operated on the history information initialization screen 130, the history information initialization screen 130 is closed.

To end the viewing on the computer 23, the operator operates the input unit 64 of the computer 23, operates the end key (not shown) on the communication setting screen, and ends the application program. This completes the processing by the application program.

On the other hand, in the second aspect described above, when the electric valve terminal block device BD including the electric valve monitor unit 30 and the electric valve terminal block 16 is removed from the piping equipment, the electric valve monitor unit 30 is operated by the computer 23. History information is read. In this case, the motorized valve 1 including the motorized valve terminal block device BD may be removed from the piping, or the motorized valve terminal block device BD may be removed from the motorized valve 1. Reading in the second mode is typically performed when a failure or error occurs in the electric valve 1.

An example of the electrical configuration in this case is shown in FIG. Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 10, a case will be described in which the computer 23 reads history information in the second manner.

In the state shown in FIG. 10, the AC power supply 24 and the electric actuator 3 are not connected to the electric valve terminal block device BD. When the computer 23 and the electric valve monitor unit 30 are connected by the connection unit 22, the electric power supplied by USB bus power from the computer 23 in the activated state is supplied to the electric valve monitor unit 30 via the connection terminal 38. Supplied. Retrieval of the motor operation history information H1 by the monitor control unit 19 is performed using operating power generated by the power supply circuit 31 based on the power supplied from the computer 23 via the connection terminal 38. Even when the electric valve terminal block device BD is disconnected from the AC power supply 24 and the electric actuator 3, the history information in the memory 20 can be read out to the computer 23 without providing a separate power supply source. . The contents of the history information monitor screen 110 and the history information initialization screen 130 displayed in the second mode of reading are the same as in the first mode of reading.

As described above, according to this embodiment, the motor operation history information H1 representing the operation history of the motor M and the temperature history information H2 representing the temperature history within the housing 15 are accumulated in the memory 20. By reading the motor operation history information H1 and temperature history information H2 stored in the memory 20 by the computer 23 and displaying them on the display unit 62, the operation history of the motor M and the history of the temperature inside the housing 15 can be investigated. Can be monitored. That is, the usage history of the electric valve 1 can be monitored.

Further, the electric valve monitor unit 30 includes a monitor control unit 19, a memory 20, a motor energization detection circuit 32, and a temperature sensor 33. The monitor control unit 19, memory 20, power supply circuit 31, and motor energization detection circuit 32 are all constructed from general-purpose electronic components. Further, the motor energization detection circuit 32 also has a relatively simple circuit configuration. Therefore, the electric valve monitor unit 30 can be obtained with an inexpensive configuration. Thereby, monitoring of the usage history of the electric valve 1 can be realized at low cost.

When a malfunction occurs in the electric valve 1, by checking the history information (motor operation history information H1 and temperature history information H2) stored in the memory 20, the cause of the malfunction in the electric valve 1 can be investigated after the fact. .

Furthermore, even if no malfunction has occurred in the motor-operated valve 1, by checking the usage history of the motor-operated valve 1 based on the history information stored in the memory 20, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of a malfunction of the motor-operated valve 1 in the future. Can be predicted in advance. For example, by checking the history information accumulated in the memory 20 at an appropriate inspection time, it is possible to predict the timing for parts replacement, etc., and therefore, appropriate maintenance can be performed. Thereby, problems can be avoided.

Based on the detection of the drive of the motor M by the motor energization detection circuit 32, motor operation history information H1 representing the operation history of the motor M is accumulated in the memory 20. It may be possible to monitor the drive command of the motor M instead of monitoring the actual drive of the motor M, but due to the effects of noise mixed in the command signal, feedback control, etc., the drive command and the motor M This does not necessarily correspond to actual driving. In particular, if the fluid flowing through the flow path that the motor-driven valve 1 opens and closes has special properties, or if the environment in which the motor-driven valve 1 is used is special, the actual behavior of the motor M in response to the command signal may not be as expected. is not limited. In such a case, the operation of the electric valve 1 that the user expects does not necessarily match the actual operation status of the electric valve 1, more specifically, the operation status of the motor M. For example, the electrically operated valve 1 may be opened and closed much more frequently than expected, and as a result, the parts of the electrically operated valve 1 may rapidly wear out. In such a case, there is an advantage in monitoring the actual driving of the motor M and storing it in the memory as motor operation history information H1.

The fact that the motor M is being driven is detected by the motor energization detection circuit 32 detecting the energization of the motor M. Therefore, it is possible to accurately detect that the motor M is being driven, and therefore, the reliability of the motor operation history information H1 stored in the memory 20 can be further improved.

Since the motor operation history information H1 stored in the memory 20 includes motor operation number information indicating the number of operations of the motor M and motor operation time information indicating the operation time of the motor M, the motor operation history information H1 is stored in the computer 23. By reading out the data and displaying it on the display unit 62, the number of times the motor M operates and the operating time of the motor M can be monitored. If there is a problem with the motor M or a problem with the control over the motor M, the number of times the motor M operates and the time the motor M operates will differ from the original number of times the motor M operates and the time the motor M operates. By monitoring the number of times the motor M operates and the operating time of the motor M, it is possible to investigate the cause of a malfunction in the electric valve 1 and predict the occurrence of a malfunction in the electric valve 1 with high accuracy.

Further, based on the detection of the temperature inside the housing 15 by the temperature sensor 33, temperature history information H2 representing the history of the temperature inside the housing 15 is accumulated in the memory 20. Since the temperature history information H2 is accumulated based on the actual detection of the temperature inside the housing 15, the temperature history inside the housing 15 can be accurately monitored. Thereby, the reliability of the temperature history information H2 stored in the memory 20 can be improved.

Specifically, the temperature history information H2 stored in the memory 20 includes information on the maximum temperature within the housing 15 during the measurement period and information on the minimum temperature within the housing 15 during the measurement period. In this case, by monitoring information on the maximum temperature and minimum temperature within the housing 15, it is possible to check whether the temperature within the housing 15 is within the allowable temperature range of the electric valve 1. Furthermore, the temperature history information H2 stored in the memory 20 includes information on the time during which the temperature is within a predetermined temperature range. If the motor-operated valve 1 is used in a temperature environment outside the allowable temperature range, the probability of occurrence of a malfunction in the motor-operated valve 1 increases. By monitoring information on the maximum and minimum temperatures within the housing 15, it is possible to investigate the cause of a malfunction in the motor-operated valve 1 and predict the occurrence of a malfunction in the motor-operated valve 1 with high accuracy.

Although one embodiment of this invention has been described above, this invention can also be implemented in other forms.

For example, in the embodiment described above, an example was explained in which the motor operation history memory 46 includes the motor operation number memory 49, the cumulative operation time memory 50, the average operation time memory 51, and the range-based operation time memory 52. , one, two, or three of these four types of memory (motor operation number memory 49, cumulative operation time memory 50, average operation time memory 51, and range-based operation time memory 52) may be omitted. . In this case, in the history information monitor screen 110 (see FIG. 8), among the motor operation count display section 114, cumulative operation time display section 115, average operation time display section 116, and range-specific operation time display section 117, the memory that is omitted is The display section corresponding to is omitted.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the first temperature history memory 47 includes the highest temperature memory 47a and the lowest temperature memory 47b, but the first temperature history memory 47 includes the highest temperature memory 47a and the lowest temperature memory 47b. A configuration may be adopted in which one of the memories 47b is included and the other is omitted. In this case, in the history information monitor screen 110 (see FIG. 8), among the maximum temperature display section 112a and the minimum temperature display section 112b, the display section corresponding to the omitted memory is omitted.

Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the second temperature history memory 48 includes the cumulative measurement time memory 53 and the range-based measurement time memory 54; however, the second temperature history memory 48 includes the cumulative measurement time memory 53 and range-specific measurement time memory 54, and the other may be omitted. In this case, of the cumulative measurement time display section 118 and the range-specific measurement time display section 119 of the history information monitor screen 110 (see FIG. 8), the display section corresponding to the omitted memory is omitted.

Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the temperature range targeted by the plurality of range-specific measurement time memories 54 is all the temperature ranges from the temperature below 0°C to the temperature above 80°C. The range-specific measurement time memory 54 may be configured to cover only a part of the temperature range. Specifically, as the plurality of range-specific measurement time memories 54, some range-specific measurement time memories 54 (for example, the eighth temperature range memory 54h, the ninth temperature range memory 54j, and the tenth temperature range memory 54k) are provided, The other range-specific measurement time memories 54 (for example, the first temperature range memory 54a to the seventh temperature range memory 54g) may be omitted. In this case, among the plurality of range measurement time display sections 119 on the history information monitor screen 110 (see FIG. 8), the range measurement time display section 119 corresponding to the omitted memory (for example, the first temperature range display section 119a to The seventh temperature range display section 119g) is omitted.

Alternatively, only one range-specific measurement time memory 54 may be provided instead of a plurality of them. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the tenth temperature range memory 54k is provided and the other range-based measurement time memories 54 (first temperature range memory 54a to ninth temperature range memory 54j) are omitted. In this case, only one range-by-range measurement time display section 119 (for example, the tenth temperature range display section 119k) is displayed on the history information monitor screen 110 (see FIG. 8).

Further, in the above-described embodiment, an example was explained in which the memory 20 includes the motor operation history memory 46, the first temperature history memory 47, and the second temperature history memory 48; One or two of the history memory 46, first temperature history memory 47, and second temperature history memory 48) may be omitted. In this case, among the motor operation history display section 111, first temperature history display section 112, and second temperature history display section 113 of the history information monitor screen 110 (see FIG. 8), the display section corresponding to the omitted memory is omitted. be done.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, a temperature sensor was cited as an example of an environmental sensor, but an acceleration sensor 233 as shown by a broken line in FIG. 2 can also be cited as another example of an environmental sensor. Specifically, the electric valve monitor unit 30 includes an acceleration sensor 233. Based on the acceleration (environmental state) measured by the acceleration sensor 233, the monitor control unit 19 stores acceleration history information (environmental history information) representing the history of acceleration acting on the electric valve 1 in the memory 20.

Vibration may be applied to the motor-operated valve 1 while the motor-operated valve 1 is installed in piping equipment. Specifically, when the pipe to which the motor-operated valve 1 is attached is vibrating, the vibration is also transmitted to the motor-operated valve 1, and the vibration is imparted to the motor-operated valve 1. If the motor-operated valve 1 is used in such a state, the probability of occurrence of a malfunction in the motor-operated valve 1 increases. By monitoring the acceleration acting on the motor-operated valve 1, it is possible to investigate the cause of a malfunction in the motor-operated valve 1 and predict the occurrence of a malfunction in the motor-operated valve 1 with high accuracy. When the acceleration sensor 233 is provided as an environmental sensor, both the temperature sensor 33 and the acceleration sensor 233 may be included in the electric valve monitor unit 30 as shown in FIG. An acceleration sensor 233 may be included in the electric valve monitor unit 30.

Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the electric valve monitor unit 30 is attached to the electric valve terminal block 16, but the electric valve monitor unit 30 is attached to another board different from the electric valve terminal block 16. It's okay to be hit. The electric valve monitor unit 30 may be attached to a member other than the substrate.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the motor energization detection circuit 32 was taken as an example of the motor drive detection unit, but the motor drive detection unit may be constituted by other sensors. Examples of other sensors include a sensor that detects the rotation of the rotor of the motor M, a sensor that detects vibrations of the motor M, and a sensor that detects the driving sound of the motor M.

Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the memory 20 is configured with FeRAM, but the memory 20 may also be configured with other non-volatile memories such as EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory) and flash memory. Good too.

Further, the monitor control unit 19 may issue a predetermined notification based on the history information (at least one of the motor operation history information H1 and the temperature history information H2) stored in the memory 20.

Further, in the above embodiment, an example is given in which the connection unit 22 includes the USB/serial conversion board 71 including the USB/serial conversion IC 78 and two cables (the first cable 72 and the second cable 73). Although described above, the connection unit 22 may include a USB/serial conversion cable having a USB/serial conversion IC having the same function as the USB/serial conversion IC 78.

Further, communication between the computer 23 and the electric valve monitor unit 30 may be performed by wireless communication instead of wired communication.

In addition, various design changes can be made within the scope of the claims.

1: Motorized valve 2: Valve body 3: Electric actuator 4: Flow path 15: Housing 16: Motorized valve terminal block 17: Wiring board 18: Terminal block body 19: Monitor control unit 20: Memory 22: Connection unit 23: Computer (terminal device)
30: Electric valve monitor unit 31: Power supply circuit 32: Motor energization detection circuit (motor drive detection unit)
33: Temperature sensor (environmental sensor)
34a: Branch power line 34b: Branch power line 38: Connection terminal 61: Control section (display control unit)
62: Display section 76: Power line 77: Signal line 79: Isolated DC/DC converter 80: Transmission photocoupler (photocoupler)
81: Reception photocoupler (photocoupler)
100: Electric valve system 101: Electric valve monitor system 151: First power line (power line)
152: Second power line (power line)
153: Third power line (power line)
233: Acceleration sensor (environmental sensor)
BD: Electric valve terminal block device H1: Motor operation history information H2: Temperature history information M: Motor

Claims (18)

A valve body that opens and closes the flow path;
an electric actuator that drives the valve body using the driving force of a motor;
a housing that accommodates the electric actuator;
memory and
a monitor control unit that stores history information in the memory, including at least one of motor operation history information representing an operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing an environment history within the housing;
Including electric valves. further comprising a motor drive detection unit that detects that the motor is being driven;
The electric valve according to claim 1, wherein the monitor control unit stores the motor operation history information in the memory based on detection of the drive of the motor by the motor drive detection unit. The electric valve according to claim 2, wherein the motor drive detection unit includes a motor energization detection circuit that detects energization to the motor. The electric valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the motor operation history information includes motor operation number information representing the number of times the motor operates. The electric valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the motor operation history information includes motor operation time information representing an operation time of the motor. further comprising an environmental sensor for detecting environmental conditions within the housing;
The electric valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the monitor control unit stores the environmental history information in the memory based on detection of an environmental state within the housing by the environmental sensor. the environmental sensor includes a temperature sensor that detects a temperature within the housing;
The electric valve according to claim 6, wherein the environmental history information includes temperature history information representing a temperature history within the housing. The motor-operated valve according to claim 7, wherein the temperature history information includes at least one of information on a maximum temperature within the housing during a predetermined period and information on a minimum temperature within the housing during the predetermined period. The motor-operated valve according to claim 7, wherein the temperature history information includes information on the time during which the temperature within the housing is within a predetermined temperature range. The environmental sensor includes an acceleration sensor that detects acceleration acting on the electric valve,
The electric valve according to claim 6, wherein the environmental history information includes acceleration history information representing a history of acceleration detected by the acceleration sensor. Any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a terminal block for an electric valve having a wiring board on which the memory and the monitor control unit are mounted, and a terminal block main body electrically and mechanically connected to the wiring board. The electric valve described in item (1). The electric motor according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a power supply circuit connected to a branch power line branched from a power line for energizing the motor and generating operating power for the monitor control unit. valve. further comprising a connection terminal for connecting a terminal device that reads the history information stored in the memory to the monitor control unit,
13. The power supply circuit is further connected to the connection terminal and generates operating power for the monitor control unit based on the power supplied from the connection terminal or the power supplied from the branch power line. Electrically operated valve as described. The electric valve according to claim 13;
The terminal device;
a connection unit that connects the terminal device and the connection terminal,
The connection unit is an electric valve system including a power line that supplies power from the terminal device to the connection terminal, and an isolated DC/DC converter interposed in the power line. The electric valve system according to claim 14, wherein the connection unit further includes a signal line that transmits a signal between the terminal device and the connection terminal, and a photocoupler interposed in the signal line. An electric valve monitor unit that monitors an electric valve including an electric actuator that opens and closes a flow path by driving a valve body using the driving force of a motor, and a housing that accommodates the electric actuator,
memory and
An electric valve monitor unit comprising: a monitor control unit that stores history information in the memory, including at least one of motor operation history information representing an operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing an environment history within the housing. An electric valve terminal block device for use in an electric valve, including an electric actuator that opens and closes a flow path by driving a valve body using the driving force of a motor, and a housing that accommodates the electric actuator,
memory and
a monitor control unit that stores history information in the memory, including at least one of motor operation history information representing the operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing the environmental history within the housing;
a wiring board on which the memory and the monitor control unit are mounted;
A terminal block device for an electric valve, comprising: a terminal block main body electrically and mechanically connected to the wiring board. A valve body that opens and closes the flow path;
an electric actuator that drives the valve body using the driving force of a motor;
a housing that accommodates the electric actuator;
memory and
a monitor control unit that stores history information in the memory, including at least one of motor operation history information representing an operation history of the motor and environmental history information representing an environment history within the housing;
A display section;
An electric valve monitoring system comprising: a display control unit that reads the history information stored in the memory and causes the display unit to display the read history information.

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