JP5296591B2 - Gas meter and control method thereof - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable an appropriate safety-continuing time to be set on the basis of an actual flow-volume state at not only an ignition timing in equipment which carries out a proportional control for a fan heater or the like, even if a gas flow volume is decreased and increased gradually after an ignition. <P>SOLUTION: After the ignition, an average flow volume calculating section 220 calculates an average flow volume Qave for each prescribed time interval, based on the gas flow volume Qi, and a determining means 281 of a registration flow-volume compensation determining section 280 determines whether the average flow volume Qave is equal to or less than a threshold Qd1, and a counter means 282 increments a count value being continuously equal to or less than the threshold, determines whether the count value being continuously equal to or less than the threshold reaches a prescribed set value N, and outputs a compensation request signal of a registration flow volume to a protective section 250 when reaching the set value N, and then the protective section 250 deletes all of individual flow volumes Q0, Q1, ..., registered in an individual flow volume table 271 of a memory section 270, and newly registers the current average flow volume Qave as the maximum flow volume Q0. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&amp;INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a gas meter installed in a gas supply line to each household and a control method therefor, and more particularly to a technique for realizing safety duration interruption at an appropriate timing for forgetting to turn off gas.

  Generally, current gas meters are equipped with a function (safety duration cut-off function) that cuts off the gas by determining whether to forget to turn off the gas. This function determines that there has been ignition or thermal power adjustment when the gas flow rate has changed by more than a predetermined value (for example, 3% or more), and the safety duration set in advance according to the amount of change at that time. (Also referred to as a time limit) is determined, and then the gas is shut off when the safety duration has passed in a state where the flow rate has not changed by a predetermined value or more (for example, 3% or more).

  Specifically, after determining the ignition of the device, the amount of change at that time is registered (or updated) in seven categories as shown in FIG. 22, for example, and in advance according to this registered flow rate Determine the set safety duration. Thereafter, the gas is shut off when the safety duration has elapsed in a state where there is no change in the flow rate equal to or greater than the predetermined value.

  By the way, in recent gas appliances such as fan heaters and water heaters, proportional control is performed after ignition, and when the gas flow rate gradually decreases and reaches a set temperature, combustion is maintained at this set temperature state. A device that controls the gas flow rate to a small amount has been proposed (commonly known as a proportional control device). In this proportional control device, if the room temperature decreases by opening a window after the combustion is maintained in a constant state (set temperature state), the flow rate is gradually increased by proportional control to set the room temperature. Control to reach temperature.

  However, when the above-described safety duration cutoff function is executed in this proportional control device, as shown in FIG. 23, after the fan heater is ignited (600 L / h), the change in gas flow rate is, for example, 3% by proportional control. When the gas flow rate is gradually decreased in the following state and combustion becomes a constant state (200 L / h), the following problems occur.

  That is, after the ignition, when the combustion reaches a constant state by reducing the gas flow rate at 3% or less, the registered flow rate at the time of ignition (600 L / h) is the actual flow rate at the constant combustion time. Since it becomes large with respect to (200 L / h), the safety continuation time set for this actual flow rate corresponds to the registered flow rate at the time of ignition.

  As a result, there arises a problem of an “early break” phenomenon in which the shut-off time, which is the safety continuation time, is shortened with respect to the actual gas flow rate (200 L / h). This “early out” phenomenon reduces the convenience of a heating appliance that performs proportional control such as a fan heater, and further leads to a decrease in service to the user.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 24, when a proportional control device such as a fan heater is burning in a constant state (200 L / h), if the room temperature is lowered by opening a window or the like, the proportional control works, For example, when the flow rate gradually increases in a state of 3% or less and the combustion reaches a constant state (600 L / h), the following occurs.

  That is, when the flow rate increases in a state of 3% or less by proportional control and the combustion again becomes a constant state (600 L / h), the registered flow rate (200 L / h) is smaller than the actual flow rate (600 L / h). Therefore, the safety continuation time set for the actual flow rate corresponds to the registered flow rate. Thereby, the cutoff time which is a safety continuation time becomes long with respect to the actual gas flow rate (600 L / h).

  The present invention has been proposed to solve the above-described problems, and its purpose is to provide a gentle gas flow rate (for example, 3% or less) after ignition in a device that performs proportional control such as a fan heater. To provide a gas meter capable of setting an appropriate safety duration (time limit) and its control method based on the actual flow rate state as well as at the time of ignition, even if there is a decrease or increase in It is in.

  In order to achieve the above-described object, the present invention monitors the gas flow rate, sets a preset use time limit according to the registered flow rate category, and uses the time limit exceeding the use limit time. A gas meter that shuts off gas by means of a shutoff valve, a flow rate detection means for detecting a gas flow rate, and an average for calculating an average flow rate by averaging the gas flow rate detected by the flow rate detection means at a predetermined time interval A flow rate calculation unit, a flow rate change determination unit that calculates a change amount of the average flow rate before and after the predetermined time interval, and determines whether the change amount is equal to or greater than a first threshold corresponding to the flow rate change; and the flow rate When the change determining means determines that the change amount is equal to or greater than the first threshold, the change means registers or deletes the change amount based on the increase / decrease direction of the change, and is registered by the registration means. Correcting means for correcting the registered flow rate that is the change amount, wherein the correction means determines whether the average flow rate calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit is equal to or lower than a second threshold value corresponding to a gradual flow rate change. A determination means for determining, and a counter for counting the number of times that the average flow rate is continuously determined to be equal to or less than a second threshold by the determination means, and determining whether the counted number reaches a predetermined set number of times Means for correcting the registered flow rate to the average flow rate when it is determined by the counter means that a predetermined set number of times has been reached.

  Furthermore, the present invention includes setting means for setting the use time limit with reference to the time when correction is performed by the correction means or when the amount of change by the flow rate change determination means is greater than or equal to a first threshold. Also includes points.

  According to the present invention as described above, even after the ignition, even if the gas flow rate is gradually reduced in a state of, for example, 3% or less, the registered flow rate registered in the storage unit can be corrected. Therefore, since the start reference of the time limit corresponding to the corrected registered flow rate can be set at the time of correction, setting the time limit corresponding to the gas flow rate at the time of ignition shortens the actual time limit. It becomes possible to suppress the “early break” phenomenon. Therefore, the convenience of a heating appliance that performs proportional control such as a fan heater can be improved, and further, the service to the user can be improved.

Functional block diagram showing a configuration example according to an embodiment of the present invention The flowchart (flow rate reduction) which shows Example 1 of the registration flow volume correction process which concerns on embodiment of this invention. Schematic of Example 2 of registered flow rate correction processing according to an embodiment of the present invention Flow chart (flow rate reduction) (1) showing Example 2 of the registered flow rate correction processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. Flow chart (flow rate reduction) (2) showing Example 2 of the registered flow rate correction processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. Schematic of Example 3 of registered flow rate correction processing according to an embodiment of the present invention Flow chart (flow rate reduction) (1) showing Example 3 of the registered flow rate correction processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. Flow chart (flow rate reduction) (2) showing Example 3 of the registered flow rate correction processing according to the embodiment of the present invention. Schematic of Examples 1 to 3 of registered flow rate correction processing according to an embodiment of the present invention The flowchart which shows Example 1 of the reset process of the time limit which concerns on embodiment of this invention. Schematic of Examples 1 to 3 of resetting processing of time limit according to the embodiment of the present invention Schematic of Example 3 of time limit resetting processing according to an embodiment of the present invention The figure which shows the time limit table of the memory | storage part which concerns on embodiment of this invention. The flowchart (flow rate increase) which shows Example 1 of the registration flow volume correction process which concerns on embodiment of this invention. Schematic of Example 1 of registered flow rate correction processing according to an embodiment of the present invention The figure which shows the separate flow rate table in Example 1 of the registration flow correction process which concerns on embodiment of this invention. The flowchart (flow rate increase) which shows Example 2 of the registration flow volume correction process which concerns on embodiment of this invention. Schematic of Example 2 of registered flow rate correction processing according to an embodiment of the present invention The figure which shows the separate flow rate table in Example 2 of the registration flow correction process which concerns on embodiment of this invention. Functional block diagram showing a configuration example according to another embodiment of the present invention The flowchart which shows the correction process of the registration flow volume which concerns on other embodiment of this invention. The figure which shows the relationship between the gas flow rate and time limit which is the prior art of this invention, and a time limit table. The figure which shows the flow volume reduction | decrease in the proportional control apparatus which is the prior art of this invention The figure which shows the flow volume increase in the proportional control apparatus which is the prior art of this invention

[This embodiment]
[1. Constitution]
A configuration of a gas meter according to an embodiment for carrying out the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a gas meter according to the present embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the gas meter of the present embodiment shuts off the gas, a measuring unit 100 that measures a physical quantity related to the gas flowing through the target gas flow path, a controller (controller) 200 that realizes various functions of the gas meter, and the like. And a shut-off valve 300.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the measurement unit 100 includes a gas flow sensor 110 that measures the gas flow rate in the target gas flow path, and various sensors 120 that measure supply pressure, acceleration, and the like as other various physical quantities. Yes.

  The controller 200 includes a flow integration unit 210, an average flow calculation unit 220, a flow rate change detection unit 230, a display unit 240, a duration measurement unit 260, a security unit 250, a storage unit 270, and a registered flow rate correction determination as functions to be described later. Part 280.

  The flow rate integration unit 210 is a unit that integrates the amount of gas used at the consumer based on the measurement data Qi obtained by the gas flow rate sensor 110 of the measurement unit 100. The integrated value integrated by the flow rate integration unit 210 is transmitted to the security unit 250 and the display unit 240.

  The average flow rate calculation unit 220 is a unit that calculates the average flow rate Qave of the gas flow rate based on the measurement data Qi obtained by the gas flow rate sensor 110 of the measurement unit 100. The average flow rate calculation unit 220 calculates the average value of the measurement data Qi having a continuous gas flow rate as the average flow rate Qave at predetermined time intervals (for example, every 30 seconds).

  The flow rate change detection unit 230 calculates the difference between the average flow rate Qave (n) and the average flow rate Qave (n−1) before and after the predetermined time interval calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220, and detects this difference in the flow rate change detection. This is a means for detecting a change in gas flow rate by comparing with a preset threshold value (for example, 3%).

  Specifically, the flow rate change detection unit 230 determines that the difference between the calculated average flow rate Qave (n) and the average flow rate Qave (n−1) is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value (eg, 3%). In this case, a change in gas flow rate is detected (determined that there is a flow rate change). The flow rate change detection unit 230 has a function of outputting a flow rate change presence signal and a change amount thereof (ΔQave (n) = Qave (n) −Qave (n−1)) to the security unit 250 when the flow rate change is detected. I have.

  The display unit 240 is realized by a liquid crystal display or the like, and has a function of displaying the integrated value and the like integrated by the flow rate integrating unit 210.

  When the change in gas flow rate is detected by the flow rate change detection unit 230, the security unit 250 has a function of receiving a flow rate change presence signal and a flow rate change amount and determining whether the change amount is increasing or decreasing. ing. When the security unit 250 determines that the change amount is increasing, the security unit 250 registers the change amount in the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270 and determines that the change amount is decreasing. A function of deleting the average flow rate Qave (n) of the reduced gas is provided.

  In addition, when the change in gas flow rate is detected by the flow rate change detection unit 230, the security unit 250 has a time limit corresponding to the maximum flow rate Q0 stored in the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270 (see FIG. 13). Is set in a timer of a duration measuring unit 260 (to be described later) and started. Further, the security unit 250 has a function of outputting a shut-off signal to the shut-off valve 300 based on the elapsed time limit signal from the duration measuring unit 260 to shut off the gas. Various other functions of the security unit 250 are described in [2. This will be described in the item of [Action].

  When the time limit corresponding to the maximum flow rate Q0 is set by the security unit 250, the duration measurement unit 260 has a function of starting the time limit and determining whether the time limit has elapsed. The duration measurement unit 260 transmits this elapsed signal to the security unit 250 when determining that the time limit has elapsed.

  The storage unit 270 is realized by various types of memories or storage devices. When a change amount is increased by the security unit 250 when a change in the gas flow rate is detected, the change amount is registered and decreased. In this case, the individual flow rate table 271 formed by deleting the average flow rate Qave (n) of the decreased gas, and the restriction in which the restriction time corresponding to each flow rate division as shown in FIG. 13 is stored. And a time table (not shown in FIG. 1).

  The registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 includes a determination unit 281 that determines whether the average flow rate Qave calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220 is equal to or less than a preset threshold value Qd1 (for example, 600 L / h), and the average flow rate Qave. Counter means 282 that counts the number of times (count value) that continuously becomes equal to or less than the threshold value.

  When the determination unit 281 of the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 determines that the average flow rate Qave exceeds the threshold value, the counter unit 282 also has a function of resetting the count value to zero. In addition, the counter unit 282 of the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 determines that the count value, which is the number of times that the average flow rate Qave is continuously equal to or less than the threshold value, reaches a predetermined set value N, the security unit 250 A function for outputting a registered flow rate correction request signal is provided.

  Of the controller 200 as described above, the flow rate integration unit 210, the average flow rate calculation unit 220, the flow rate change detection unit 230, the safety unit 250, the duration measurement unit 260, and the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 are included in each of these units. It is realized by a program specialized for realizing the function and an electronic circuit or computer incorporating the program.

[2. Action]
Next, the operation of the gas meter having the above configuration will be described below with reference to FIGS. In addition, this operation includes a correction process for the registered flow rate when the flow rate decreases ([2.1.]), A correction process for the registered flow rate when the flow rate increases (“2.3.”), And a registered flow rate. The time limit setting process after correction (“2.2.”) Will be described separately.

[2.1. Registered flow rate correction processing (corresponding to a slow flow rate decrease)]
[2.1.1. Example 1]
First, with reference to FIGS. 2 and 9 (a), the registration flow rate correction process according to the first embodiment when the gas flow rate is gradually reduced (for example, 3% or less) will be described. In the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270, individual flow rates (also referred to as registered flow rates) Q0, Q1,... Divided in a predetermined range are registered.

  As shown in FIG. 2, after the ignition, when the gas flow rate (measurement data) Qi flowing through the target gas flow path is acquired by the gas flow rate sensor 110 of the measurement unit 100, the average flow rate calculation unit 220 of the controller 200 Based on Qi, an average flow rate (for example, an average flow rate every 30 seconds) Qave for each predetermined time interval is calculated (S201). Each time the average flow rate is calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220 (every 30 seconds), the determination unit 281 of the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 of the controller 200 sets the average flow rate Qave to a threshold value Qd1 (for example, 600 L / h) It is determined whether or not (S202).

  When the determination unit 281 of the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 determines that the average flow rate Qave is equal to or less than the threshold value Qd1 (YES in S202), the counter unit 282 continuously increases the count value that is equal to or less than the threshold value. (S203).

  On the other hand, when the determination unit 281 of the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 determines that the average flow rate Qave exceeds the threshold value Qd1 (NO in S202), the counter unit 282 resets the count value to zero (S204).

  Then, the counter unit 282 determines whether the count value reaches a predetermined set value N (for example, N = 3) by continuously increasing the count value that is equal to or less than the threshold value (S205). When the set value N is reached (YES in S205), a registration flow rate correction request signal is output to the security unit 250.

  When the security unit 250 detects the correction request signal from the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280, the security unit 250 deletes all the individual flow rates Q0, Q1,... Registered in the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270, and newly adds the current flow rate. The average flow rate Qave is registered as the maximum flow rate Q0 (S206, S207). Thereby, the correction process of the registered flow rate in the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270 is completed. Thereafter, [2.2. [Resetting process of time limit after correction of registered flow rate] is performed.

  In S205, when it is determined by the counter means 282 that the count value has not reached the predetermined set value N (for example, N = 3) (NO in S205), the above-described S201 to 204 are the acquired gas flow rates. It repeats for every time interval of the average flow calculated based on Qi.

  According to the correction process of the registered flow rate according to the first embodiment as described above, even if the gas flow rate gradually decreases in a state of 3% or less after ignition, the registered flow rate registered in the storage unit is reduced. Since the correction can be made, it is possible to suppress the “early interruption” phenomenon that the actual time limit is shortened by setting the time limit corresponding to the gas flow rate at the time of ignition. Therefore, the convenience of a heating appliance that performs proportional control such as a fan heater can be improved, and further, the service to the user can be improved.

[2.1.2. Example 2]
Further, in the first embodiment, a mode in which the registered flow rate correction process is performed every time the average flow rate is calculated (for example, every 30 seconds) is described. However, as described below, a predetermined cycle (for example, 60 minutes) is performed. Therefore, it is possible to correct the registered flow rate, and the correction process according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 to 5 and 9 (b).

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the security unit 250 of the controller 200 transmits an activation signal for executing a registered flow rate correction process to the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 every predetermined time (for example, 60 minutes). Then, the registered flow rate correction process is performed as in S202 and subsequent steps of the first embodiment.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, when the gas flow rate (measurement data) Qi flowing through the target gas flow path is first acquired by the gas flow rate sensor 110 of the measurement unit 100, the average flow rate calculation unit 220 of the controller 200 is Based on the gas flow rate Qi, an average flow rate (for example, an average flow rate every 30 seconds) Qave for each predetermined time interval is calculated (S401).

  Then, the flow rate change detection unit 230 calculates the difference between the average flow rate Qave (n) and the average flow rate Qave (n−1) before and after the predetermined time interval calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220, and this difference is calculated in advance. It is determined whether or not the set threshold value (for example, 3%) is exceeded (S402).

  When the flow rate change detection unit 230 determines that the difference is not equal to or greater than a preset threshold value (for example, 3%) (NO in S402), the security unit 250 performs a predetermined cycle (for example, 60 minutes), The timing for transmitting an activation signal for executing the registered flow rate correction process is determined (S403). That is, the security unit 250 determines whether it is time to execute the registered flow rate correction process.

  When it is determined that it is the transmission timing of the activation signal (YES in S403), the security unit 250 transmits the activation signal to the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 as ON, and the registered flow rate correction process as shown in FIG. Is performed (S404).

  As shown in FIG. 5, the registration flow rate correction process according to the second embodiment is substantially the same as the process after S202 of the first embodiment. However, the counter unit 282 counts a predetermined set value N8 (for example, N = 3) (YES in S505), the counter value is reset and the activation signal is turned OFF (S504, S505).

  In S501, even when the determination unit 281 of the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 determines that the average flow rate Qave exceeds the threshold value Qd1 (NO in S501), the counter value is reset and the activation signal is turned OFF. (S506, 507). Since other processes are the same as those in the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S403 in FIG. 4 that the start signal transmission timing is not reached (NO in S403), the processing of S401 to 403 is repeated without performing the registration flow rate correction processing. In S402, when the flow rate change detection unit 230 determines that the difference is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value (eg, 3%) (YES in S402), measurement is performed at a predetermined period when transmitting the activation signal. The timer that has been reset is reset (S405), and the process of S401 to 402 is repeated without performing the correction process of the registered flow rate.

  According to the registered flow rate correction processing according to the second embodiment as described above, it is possible to reduce power consumption as compared with the first embodiment in which correction is performed every 30 seconds as described below. For example, if the calculation time of the average flow rate is every 30 seconds, the number of times N counted by the counter means 282 is 3, and the predetermined period for executing the correction process is 60 minutes, under such circumstances The power consumption can be reduced to 1/120 (= 30 seconds × 3 times ÷ 3600 seconds ÷ 3).

[2.1.3. Example 3]
In addition, as described below, it is also possible to determine the correction process of the registered flow rate before the time limit determined by the duration measurement unit 260 is exceeded (shutdown is established), and FIGS. The correction process according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to c).

  As shown in FIG. 6, in the third embodiment, the duration measuring unit 260 is provided with a registered flow rate correction determination timer 261 that can set the start time of the registered flow rate correction process, and the time point at which the correction process is performed is expired. It is characterized by being set before (for example, 10 minutes before).

  Specifically, as shown in FIG. 7, the average flow rate calculation unit 220 of the controller 200 calculates an average flow rate (for example, an average flow rate every 30 seconds) Qave at predetermined time intervals based on the acquired gas flow rate Qi. The flow rate change detection unit 230 calculates the difference between the average flow rate Qave (n) and the average flow rate Qave (n−1) before and after a predetermined time interval, and this difference is set to a preset threshold value (S701). For example, it is determined whether it is 3% or more (S702).

  Here, when the flow rate change detection unit 230 determines that the difference is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value (for example, 3%) (YES in S702), the security unit 250 sets the registered flow rate correction determination timer 251. By setting the start time of the correction process (for example, 10 minutes before the expiration of the time limit), the registered flow rate correction determination timer 251 is zero-started (S703), and the count-up process as shown in FIG. 8 is performed.

  That is, the registered flow rate correction determination timer 251 counts up the elapsed time when the start time of the correction process (for example, 10 minutes before the time limit expires) is set by the security unit (S801), and the correction process start time Is determined (S802). If it is determined that the correction processing start time has been reached (YES in S802), the registration flow correction processing activation signal (also referred to as a time-over signal) is turned ON (S803), and the activation signal is sent to the security unit 250. Output. When the activation signal is turned ON, the count up by the registered flow rate correction determination timer 251 ends (S804).

  When the security unit 250 receives the activation signal, the security unit 250 transmits the activation signal for the correction process of the registered flow rate to the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 as follows, and the correction process is performed. That is, after that, when the flow rate change detection unit 230 determines that the difference is not greater than or equal to a preset threshold value (for example, 3%) (NO in S702), the security unit 250 performs the correction process illustrated in FIG. It is determined whether the start signal indicating the start is ON (whether the start signal has been received) (S704).

  When the safety unit 250 determines that the activation signal is ON (YES in S704), the security unit 250 transmits this activation signal to the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280, and the second embodiment as illustrated in FIG. A similar registered flow rate correction process is performed (S705).

  According to the third embodiment as described above, for example, the registration flow rate correction process can be executed 10 minutes before the time limit expires (10 minutes before the gas shut-off occurs). It is possible to suppress the interruption in the situation of no use, and it is possible to greatly reduce the power consumption related to the registered flow rate correction.

[2.2. Resetting the time limit after correcting the registered flow rate]
Next, the time limit resetting process after the above-described registered flow rate correction process is executed will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following, it is determined that the difference between the average flow rates before and after the predetermined time interval calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220 of the controller 200 is greater than or equal to a threshold (for example, 3%) set in advance by the flow rate change detection unit 230. (Determined to be in an ignition state), the security unit 250 has already set and started the time limit stored in the time limit table of the storage unit 270 corresponding to the flow rate in the timer of the duration measurement unit 260 explain.

[2.2.1. Example 1]
The time limit resetting process according to the first embodiment will be described. First, in the controller 200, as shown in FIG. 2, the security unit 250 detects the correction request signal from the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280, All the individual flow rates Q0 to Q4 registered in the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270 are deleted, and the current average flow rate Qave is newly registered as the maximum flow rate Q0. Then, the security unit 250 sets a time limit (see FIG. 13) corresponding to the maximum flow rate Q0 stored in the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270 in the timer of the duration measurement unit 260.

  In the duration measuring unit 260, when the time limit corresponding to the maximum flow rate Q0 is set by the security unit 250 as shown in FIG. 10, the time limit is zero-started (S1001). Thereafter, the duration measuring unit 260 determines whether or not the time limit has elapsed (S1002), and when it is determined that the time limit has elapsed (YES in S1002), indicates that to the security unit 250. The progress signal is transmitted, and the time limit progress determination process is reset (S1003).

  Then, the security unit 250 outputs a cutoff signal to the cutoff valve 300 based on the elapsed time limit signal from the duration measurement unit 260, and shuts off the gas (S1004).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 11, when the current limit time set at the beginning is 220 minutes corresponding to the gas flow rate of 1000 L / h (see FIG. 13), if the current gas flow rate is 500 L / h, The time limit can be reset to 660 minutes (see FIG. 13) with the registered flow rate correction time as a starting reference.

  According to the time limit setting process according to the first embodiment as described above, the start reference for the time limit corresponding to the corrected registered flow rate can be set at the time of correction. / H is registered, and thereafter, it becomes possible to suppress the “early break” phenomenon that occurs when the flow rate is gradually decreased (for example, 3% or less) by proportional control.

[2.2.2. Example 2]
In addition, the time limit setting process according to the second embodiment in which the reset time limit reference is changed as follows in consideration of the gas flow that has flowed before the correction of the registered flow rate will be described below. Specifically, in the second embodiment, the reset time limit start criterion is not the time of execution of the registered flow rate correction process, but the ignition time that is the current time limit reference, that is, before and after a predetermined time interval. The difference is set at a time point when the difference between the average flow rates is determined by the flow rate change detection unit 230 to be equal to or greater than a preset threshold value (for example, 3%).

  Speaking in FIG. 10, in S1001, in the duration measurement unit 260, when the time limit corresponding to the maximum flow rate Q0 is set by the security unit 250, the time limit is not zero-started, but is started. This time limit is started with reference to.

  According to the time limit resetting process according to the second embodiment as described above, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, the current time limit set initially is 220 minutes corresponding to the gas flow rate of 1000 L / h. Even in this case (see FIG. 13), since the current gas flow rate is 500 L / h, it is possible to reset the time limit to 660 minutes (see FIG. 13) based on the ignition time. Thereby, it is possible to set a time limit in consideration of the gas flow rate flowing from the time of ignition to the time of correction, and it is possible to prevent the time limit from being set more than necessary.

[2.2.3. Example 3]
In addition, regarding the time limit setting process according to Example 3 in which the amount of gas that has flowed before the correction of the registered flow rate is more specifically taken into account and the start criterion for the reset time limit is changed as follows, explain. The third embodiment is characterized in that the time limit is reset according to the gas flow rate from the time of ignition until the correction of the registered flow rate. Hereinafter, a detailed description will be given with reference to FIGS.

  First, as a premise, at the time of ignition, the flow rate integration unit 210 calculates an integrated value of gas usage based on the measurement data Qi obtained by the gas flow rate sensor 110 of the measurement unit 100 and transmits it to the security unit 250. The integrated value is stored in the storage unit 270 through the security unit 250. That is, when the flow rate change detection unit 230 detects a flow rate change, the security unit 250 reads the integrated value by the flow rate integration unit 210 when this flow rate change is detected, and stores the latest integrated value when there is a flow rate change. Save to 270.

  After that, when the security unit 250 receives a correction request signal for the registered flow rate from the duration measurement unit 260 as shown in FIG. 2, the flow rate integration unit 210 integrates the gas usage at this time (referred to as correction). Calculate the value. Then, the security unit 250 calculates the gas flow rate that flows from the time of ignition to the time of correction based on the difference between the integrated value at the time of correction and the integrated value when there is a flow rate change read out through the storage unit 270, and Set the time limit according to the flow rate.

For example, as shown in FIG. 12, in the case where the flow rate during ignition is 1000 L / h and the flow rate during correction is 600 L / h (corresponding to the threshold value Qd1), the flow rate integrating unit 210 performs gas correction during correction. Considering that the limit time of the flow rate of 600 L / h is 660 minutes (11 hours) (see FIG. 13), the total flow rate of the gas that can be flowed is calculated by the following equation.
[Equation 1]
600L / h × 11 hours = 6600L

On the other hand, the security unit 250 calculates, based on the gas flow rate at the time of ignition read from the storage unit 270, that the gas flow rate flowing from the ignition time to the correction time is 3000 L (shaded portion in FIG. 12). The remaining flow rate that can be flowed is calculated by the following equation.
[Equation 2]
6600L-3000L = 3600L

From the above, the security unit 250 calculates the time limit set at the time of correction from the remaining flow rate 3600L and the threshold value Qd1 (600 L / h) as follows.
[Equation 3]
3600L ÷ 600L / h = 6 hours (360 minutes)

  Thus, when the time limit is set by the security unit 250 according to the flow rate from the time of ignition to the time of correction, the time limit is set in the timer of the duration measuring unit 260 and started. The subsequent steps are the same as in the first embodiment.

  According to the resetting process of the time limit according to the third embodiment as described above, the time limit until the shut-off can be adjusted according to the sum of the gas flow rates flowing from the time of ignition to the time of correction. Since it is possible to prevent the setting of the time limit being longer than this, and furthermore, it is possible to suppress an increase in the gas flow rate, it is possible to reduce the required power required until the interruption. The time limit calculation method described above is an example, and is a table showing the time limit according to the flow rate, or the time limit is calculated based on a function t = f (Q) of the flow rate Q and the time limit t. It does not matter.

[2.3. Registered flow rate correction processing (corresponding to a slow flow rate increase)]
[2.3.1. Example 1]
Next, [2.1. Registered flow rate correction processing (corresponding to a slow flow rate decrease)] Contrary to the flow rate decrease shown in FIG. 7, the registered flow rate correction processing according to the first embodiment when increasing at a slow flow rate (for example, 3%). This will be described with reference to FIGS.

  In the first embodiment, when there is one registered flow rate registered in the storage unit 270 (and it is assumed that only one device is used), there is no flow rate change of 3% or more. When a flow rate change of 3% or more occurs, the registered flow rate (for example, 200 L / h) is compared with the flow rate immediately before the flow rate change (for example, 600 L / h). It is determined that a moderate flow rate increase has occurred, and the registered flow rate is corrected to the flow rate immediately before the flow rate change (600 L / h). This will be specifically described below.

  As shown in FIG. 14, first, when the gas flow rate (measurement data) Qi flowing through the target gas flow path is acquired by the gas flow rate sensor 110 of the measurement unit 100, the average flow rate calculation unit 220 of the controller 200 performs the gas flow rate Qi. Based on the above, an average flow rate (for example, an average flow rate every 30 seconds) Qave for each predetermined time interval is calculated (S1401).

  Then, the flow rate change detection unit 230 calculates the difference between the average flow rate Qave (n) and the average flow rate Qave (n−1) before and after the predetermined time interval calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220 (S1402). It is determined whether the difference is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value (eg, 3%) (S1403).

  When the flow rate change detection unit 230 determines that the difference is equal to or greater than a preset threshold value (eg, 3%) (there is a flow rate change) (YES in S1403), the flow rate change is performed with respect to the security unit 250. The presence signal and the change amount (ΔQave (n)) detected by the flow rate change detection unit 230 are transmitted. When receiving the flow rate change signal and the change amount detected by the flow rate change detection unit 230, the security unit 250 corrects the registered flow rate registered in the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270 as described below.

  That is, the security unit 250 first determines whether there is one gas flow rate registered in the individual flow rate table 271 (S1404). If it is determined that there is one registered flow rate (YES in S1404), the registered flow rate Q0 is compared with the flow rate Qave (n−1) immediately before the flow rate change, and the flow rate Qave (n− immediately before the flow rate change). When 1) is larger than the registered flow rate Q0, it is determined that a moderate flow rate (for example, 3% or less) has risen, and the registered flow rate Q0 is corrected to the flow rate Qave (n-1) immediately before the flow rate change. (S1405).

  For example, as shown in FIG. 15, the average flow rate Qave (n) calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220 is 2000 L / h, the flow rate Qave (n−1) immediately before the flow rate change is 600 L / h, and the storage unit When one registered flow rate Q0 registered in the individual flow rate table 271 of 270 is 200 L / h, the registered flow rate is corrected as follows. That is, in S1405, since it is determined that the flow rate Qave (n−1) (600 L / h) immediately before the flow rate change is larger than the registered flow rate Q0 (200 L / h) in the individual flow rate table 271, a gentle flow rate (for example, 3% or less), it is determined that an increase has occurred, and as shown in FIG. 16, the registered flow rate Q0 (200 L / h) in the individual flow rate table 271 is corrected to the flow rate immediately before the flow rate change (600 L / h).

  After the registered flow rate Q0 is corrected to the flow rate Qave (n−1) immediately before the flow rate change as described above, [2.1. Similarly to [Registered flow rate correction process (corresponding to a gentle decrease in flow rate)], the above-mentioned [2.2. The time limit resetting process is performed by [Reset time limit processing after correction of registered flow rate].

  According to the registered flow rate correction process according to the first embodiment as described above, for example, even when a flow rate change of 3% or more is detected and then increased at a moderate flow rate of 3% or less, the registered flow rate is increased. Can be corrected to the flow rate immediately before the flow rate change. In other words, when a second instrument ignites and digests, the registered flow rate is corrected in consideration of a flow rate increase of 3% or less due to proportional control of the first instrument that occurred before the second instrument ignited. A time limit can be set.

[2.3.2. Example 2]
In addition, referring to FIGS. 17 to 19, the second embodiment registered in the individual flow rate table 271 when the division of the time limit table shown in FIG. 13 is changed due to a moderate increase in flow rate (for example, 3% or less). The registered flow rate correction process according to the above will be described below. In the second embodiment, the correction process of the registered flow rate when the classification of the time limit table stored in the storage unit 270 is changed in a situation where the flow rate change is not detected due to a moderate flow rate increase (3% or less) will be described. To do.

  First, as shown in FIG. 17, when the gas flow rate (measurement data) Qi flowing through the target gas flow path is acquired by the gas flow rate sensor 110 of the measurement unit 100 as in the first embodiment, the average flow rate calculation of the controller 200 is performed. The unit 220 calculates an average flow rate (for example, an average flow rate every 30 seconds) Qave at predetermined time intervals based on the gas flow rate Qi (S1701).

  Then, the flow rate change detection unit 230 calculates the difference between the average flow rate Qave (n) and the average flow rate Qave (n−1) before and after the predetermined time interval calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220 (S1702). It is determined whether the difference is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value (eg, 3%) (S1703).

  When the flow rate change detection unit 230 determines that the difference falls below a preset threshold value (for example, 3%) (no flow rate change) (NO in S1703), the flow rate change not signal is sent to the security unit 250. The change amount (ΔQave (n)) detected by the flow rate change detection unit 230 is transmitted. Then, when the security unit 250 receives the no flow rate change signal and the change amount detected by the flow rate change detection unit 230, the registered flow rate registered in the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270 is corrected as follows.

  That is, the security unit 250 first determines whether there is one registered flow rate registered in the individual flow rate table 271 (S1704). If there is one registered flow rate (YES in S1704), The registered flow rate Q0 is compared with the detected average flow rate Qave (n) (S1705). When the average flow rate Qave (n) is larger than the registered flow rate Q0 (YES in S1705), the security unit 250 corrects the registered flow rate Q0 to the average flow rate Qave (n) (S1706).

  For example, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, the average flow rate Qave (n) calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220 is 301 L / h, the flow rate Qave (n−1) immediately before the flow rate change is 200 L / h, When one registered flow rate Q0 registered in the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270 is 200 L / h, the registered flow rate is corrected as follows. That is, in S1705, it is determined that the average flow rate Qave (n) (301 L / h) is larger than the registered flow rate Q0 (200 L / h) in the individual flow rate table 271, so that the individual flow rate Qave (n) (301 L / h) is The flow rate table 271 is corrected as shown in FIG.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 19, the registered flow rate Q0 (200 L / h) in the individual flow rate table 271 is corrected to the average flow rate Qave (n) (301 L / h). Further, as shown in FIG. 17, when the flow rate change detecting unit 230 detects that there is a change in the flow rate as in the first embodiment, correction processing similar to S1403-1405 in FIG. S1707, 1708).

  After the registered flow rate Q0 is corrected to the average flow rate Qave (n) as described above, [2.1. Similarly to [Registered flow rate correction process (corresponding to a gentle decrease in flow rate)], the above-mentioned [2.2. The time limit resetting process is performed by [Reset time limit processing after correction of registered flow rate].

  According to the resetting process of the time limit according to the second embodiment as described above, for example, in a situation where a flow rate change of 3% or more is not detected, and thereafter the flow rate increases gradually at 3% or less. Since the registered flow rate can be corrected, an appropriate time limit can be set for the actual gas flow rate.

[Other Embodiments]
In addition, this invention is not limited to embodiment which has the above registration flow correction | amendment determination parts 280, The embodiment which has the following structures is also included.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 20, the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 has a difference (Q0−Qave) between the maximum value Q0 of the registered flow rate registered in the storage unit 270 and the average flow rate Qave calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220. And a determination unit 284 that determines whether the difference calculated by the calculation unit 283 is equal to or greater than a preset threshold value Qd2 (for example, 400 L / h). The determination unit 284 has a function of outputting a registered flow rate correction request signal to the security unit 250 when determining that the difference is equal to or greater than the threshold value Qd2.

A registered flow rate correction process based on the configuration of the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 will be described below with reference to FIG.
First, as shown in FIG. 21, when the gas flow rate (measurement data) Qi flowing through the target gas flow path is acquired by the gas flow rate sensor 110 of the measurement unit 100, the average flow rate calculation unit 220 of the controller 200 Based on Qi, an average flow rate (for example, an average flow rate every 30 seconds) Qave for each predetermined time interval is calculated (S2101).

  The calculation means 283 of the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 calculates a difference (Q0−Qave) between the maximum value Q0 of the registered flow rate registered in the storage unit 270 and the average flow rate Qave calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit 220 ( S2102). Then, the determination unit 284 determines whether the difference calculated by the calculation unit 283 is greater than or equal to a preset threshold value Qd2 (for example, 400 L / h) (S2103). When determining that the difference is equal to or greater than the threshold value Qd2 (YES in S2103), the determination unit 284 outputs a registered flow rate correction request signal to the security unit 250.

  When the security unit 250 detects the correction request signal from the registered flow rate correction determination unit 280, the security unit 250 deletes all the individual flow rates Q0 to Q4 registered in the individual flow rate table 271 of the storage unit 270 and newly adds the current average flow rate Qave. Is registered as the maximum flow rate Q0 (S2104, S2105). After that, [2.2. The process of resetting the time limit after correcting the registered flow rate] is performed (S2106).

  In S2103, when it is determined by the determination means that the difference is not equal to or greater than a preset threshold value Qd2 (for example, 400 L / h) (NO in S2103), the above S2101 to 2102 indicate the acquired gas flow rate Qi. It repeats for every time interval of the average flow calculated based on.

100 ... Measurement unit 110 ... Gas flow rate sensor 120 ... Various sensors 200 ... Controller 210 ... Flow rate integration unit 220 ... Average flow rate calculation unit 230 ... Flow rate change detection unit 240 ... Display unit 250 ... Security unit 260 ... Duration measurement unit 261 ... Registered flow rate correction determination timer 270 ... Storage unit 271 ... Individual flow rate table 280 ... Registered flow rate correction determination unit 280 ..Registered flow rate correction determination unit 281... Determination unit 282 .. counter unit 283... Calculation unit 284.

Claims (8)

A gas meter that monitors the gas flow rate, sets a preset use time limit according to the registered flow rate classification of the registered flow rate, and shuts off the gas with a shut-off valve when used beyond the use limit time,
A flow rate detecting means for detecting a gas flow rate;
An average flow rate calculating means for calculating an average flow rate by averaging the gas flow rates detected by the flow rate detecting means at predetermined time intervals;
A flow rate change determination means for calculating a change amount of the average flow rate before and after the predetermined time interval and determining whether the change amount is equal to or more than a first threshold corresponding to the flow rate change;
A registration unit that registers or deletes the change amount based on an increase / decrease direction of the change when the change amount is determined by the flow rate change determination unit to be equal to or greater than a first threshold;
Correction means for correcting a registered flow rate that is the amount of change registered by the registration means,
The correction means includes
A determination unit that determines whether the average flow rate calculated by the average flow rate calculation unit is equal to or less than a second threshold corresponding to a gradual flow rate change;
Counter means for counting the number of times that the average flow rate is continuously determined to be equal to or less than a second threshold by the determination means, and determining whether the counted number reaches a predetermined set number of times. ,
A gas meter that corrects the registered flow rate to the average flow rate when it is determined by the counter means that a predetermined set number of times is reached.   The gas meter according to claim 1, wherein the correction unit corrects the registered flow rate at a predetermined period.   The gas meter according to claim 1, wherein the correction unit performs correction before a predetermined time before expiration of a use restriction time corresponding to a flow rate classification of the registered flow rate. Wherein based on the time correction by the correction means, according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises a setting means for setting the use time limit gas meter. Based on the time determination of the amount of change by the flow change determination unit is equal to or greater than the first threshold value, any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that it comprises a setting means for setting the use time limit 1 The gas meter according to item. Flow rate integration means for calculating an integrated value by integrating the average flow rate; and
A use restriction that calculates the use restriction time based on the integrated value at the time of determination that the amount of change by the flow rate change determination means is equal to or greater than a first threshold and the integrated value at the time of correction by the correction means. gas meter according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that it comprises a time calculation means. The use time limit calculating means is:
From the integrated value at the time of determination that the amount of change is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold and the integrated value at the time of correction by the correction unit, the flow rate used from the determination time to the correction time is calculated,
The total flow rate is calculated by multiplying the registered flow rate corrected by the correction means by the use time limit corresponding to the registered flow rate,
7. The gas meter according to claim 6 , wherein the use time limit is calculated by subtracting the use flow rate from the determination time to the correction time from the total flow rate and then dividing the subtraction by the corrected registered flow rate. Monitoring the gas flow rate, and set the usage time limit that is set in advance according to the flow rate class of the registered flow rate registered, computer gas meter so as to block the gas by shut-off valve when used beyond the use time limit A gas meter control method controlled by
The computer
A flow rate detecting step for detecting a gas flow rate;
An average flow rate calculating step for calculating an average flow rate by averaging the gas flow rates detected in the flow rate detection step at predetermined time intervals;
A flow rate change determination step of calculating a change amount of the average flow rate before and after the predetermined time interval and determining whether the change amount is equal to or more than a first threshold corresponding to the flow rate change;
A registration step of registering or deleting the change amount based on an increase / decrease direction of the change when the change amount is determined to be greater than or equal to a first threshold in the flow rate change determination step;
A correction step of correcting a registered flow rate that is the change amount registered in the registration step, and
The correction step includes
A determination process for determining whether the average flow rate calculated in the average flow rate calculation step is equal to or less than a second threshold corresponding to a gradual flow rate change;
A counter process for counting the number of times that the average flow rate is continuously determined to be less than or equal to a second threshold value by the determination process, and determining whether the counted number reaches a predetermined set number of times. ,
A gas meter control method, comprising: correcting the registered flow rate to the average flow rate when it is determined by the counter process that a predetermined set number of times is reached.

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