JP2024131764A - ALARM MANAGEMENT DEVICE, ALARM MANAGEMENT METHOD, AND ALARM MANAGEMENT PROGRAM - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To support the implementation of measures against alarms that occur in a plant. [Solution] An alarm management device 10 holds operation procedures for each of the measures that can be implemented against the alarms of the monitored equipment, transmits the alarms of the monitored equipment, accepts the measures against the alarms selected by the corresponding operator O, obtains the operation procedures linked to the measures selected by the corresponding operator O, and outputs them to the corresponding operator O. [Selected Figure] Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to an alarm management device, an alarm management method, and an alarm management program.

Alarm management systems in plants are strictly standardized by international standards such as ISA18.2 and IEC62682 due to their function of quickly detecting dangers at the plant site, protecting the company's assets, and protecting the lives of workers working at the plant site. The above standards define required and recommended functions as basic alarm functions that an alarm management system must fulfill, and each control system vendor implements an alarm management system that conforms to the above definitions.

JP 2022-177415 A

However, in an alarm management system, various alarms occur, such as emergency alarms, non-urgent alarms, frequent alarms, and first-time alarms. Therefore, users such as plant operators who monitor the alarms are required to immediately determine and implement appropriate measures in response to the alarm.

However, there are no strict rules on how users should respond to such alarms, and the system does not provide support for this. For example, at plant sites, there are unique rules such as requiring approval from the plant manager before responding to an alarm, confirmation by another plant operator after responding to an alarm, and requiring the plant operator to leave a record when an alarm is operated.

The present invention was made in consideration of the above, and aims to support the implementation of measures against alarms.

The present invention provides an alarm management device that includes a memory unit that stores operation procedures for each countermeasure that can be implemented for an alarm of a monitored device, a transmission unit that transmits the alarm of the monitored device, a reception unit that receives the countermeasure for the alarm selected by a user, and an output unit that retrieves from the memory unit the operation procedures linked to the countermeasure selected by the user and outputs the operation procedures to the user.

The present invention also provides an alarm management method in which a computer executes a process by storing operation procedures for each countermeasure that can be implemented in response to an alarm of a monitored device, transmitting the alarm of the monitored device, accepting the countermeasure for the alarm selected by a user, acquiring the operation procedures linked to the countermeasure selected by the user, and outputting the operation procedures to the user.

The present invention also provides an alarm management program that causes a computer to execute the following processes: hold operational procedures for each countermeasure that can be implemented in response to an alarm of a monitored device, transmit the alarm of the monitored device, accept the countermeasure for the alarm selected by a user, obtain the operational procedures linked to the countermeasure selected by the user, and output the operational procedures to the user.

The present invention has the effect of helping to implement measures against alarms.

1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example and a processing example of an alarm management system according to an embodiment; FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an alarm response operation according to the reference technology. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of each device in an alarm management system according to an embodiment; 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an alarm response flow screen storage unit of the alarm management device according to the embodiment; FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of an alarm shelving flow screen storage unit of the alarm management device according to the embodiment. FIG. 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating a specific example of an alarm response flow screen management process according to the embodiment. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating a specific example of an alarm shelving flow screen management process according to the embodiment. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a flow of an alarm response flow screen management process of the alarm management system according to the embodiment. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a flow of an alarm shelving flow screen management process in the alarm management system according to the embodiment; FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration according to an embodiment.

Below, an alarm management device, an alarm management method, and an alarm management program according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described below.

[Embodiment]
Below, we will explain the configuration and processing of the alarm management system 100 related to the embodiment, the configuration and processing of each device of the alarm management system 100, specific examples of each process of the alarm management system 100, and the processing flow of the alarm management system 100, and finally the effects of the embodiment will be explained.

1. Configuration and Processing of the Alarm Management System 100
The configuration and processing of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration and processing of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment. Below, an example of the overall configuration of the alarm management system 100, an example of the processing of the alarm management system 100, and problems with the alarm management system 100P according to the reference technology will be described in order, and finally, the effects of the alarm management system 100 will be described. Note that in the embodiment, a factory production remote monitoring using plant equipment, which is a device installed in a plant, will be described as an example, but the device and field of use are not limited, and the present invention can also be applied to environmental measurement remote monitoring such as power monitors, wind power generation, water and sewage monitors, and river monitors.

(1-1. Example of Overall Configuration of Alarm Management System 100)
The alarm management system 100 includes an alarm management device 10, a corresponding operator terminal 20, a higher-level operator terminal 30, and a shared operator terminal 40. The alarm management device 10, the corresponding operator terminal 20, the higher-level operator terminal 30, and the shared operator terminal 40 are connected to each other via a predetermined communication network (network) (not shown) so as to be able to communicate with each other by wire or wirelessly. The predetermined communication network may be any of various communication networks such as the Internet or a dedicated line.

Here, the corresponding operator terminal 20 is a terminal used by the corresponding operator O who responds to the alarm. The higher-level operator terminal 30 is a terminal used by the higher-level operator M who supervises the corresponding operator O and the shared operator C. The shared operator terminal 40 is a terminal used by the shared operator C who shares the situation with the corresponding operator O who responds to the alarm. The alarm management system 100 shown in FIG. 1 may include multiple alarm management devices 10, multiple corresponding operator terminals 20, multiple higher-level operator terminals 30, or multiple shared operator terminals 40.

(1-2. Example of Overall Processing of Alarm Management System 100)
The overall processing of the alarm management system 100 as described above will be described below. In the following, an alarm response flow screen management process executed when "alarm response" is performed to immediately respond to an alarm as a countermeasure implemented by the response operator O and an operation for an alarm ("alarm operation" as appropriate) and an alarm shelving flow screen management process executed when "alarm shelving" is performed to postpone response for a certain period of time and respond to the alarm after the certain period of time has elapsed will be described. Note that the following processes can also be executed in a different order. Also, some of the following processes may be omitted.

(1-2-1. Alarm Response Flow Screen Management Processing)
First, the alarm management device 10 transmits an alarm (see FIG. 1(a-1)). For example, the alarm management device 10 transmits an alarm indicating an abnormality in a process that has occurred in a plant to a corresponding operator terminal 20. At this time, the alarm management device 10 may detect the alarm, or may receive the alarm from an alarm device having an alarm detection function.

Secondly, the corresponding operator O selects an alarm handling operation as an alarm operation (see FIG. 1(a-2)). For example, the corresponding operator O selects an alarm handling operation on the alarm summary display screen displayed on the corresponding operator terminal 20. In addition, the corresponding operator terminal 20 transmits the selection of the alarm handling operation to the alarm management device 10.

Thirdly, the alarm management device 10 generates an alarm response flow screen as a flow screen (see FIG. 1 (a-3)). For example, the alarm management device 10 generates an alarm response flow screen that shows the procedural flow for carrying out alarm response operations based on the type of alarm that has occurred, the location where it occurred, the urgency, etc. In the example of FIG. 1 (a-3), a flow screen is generated as the alarm response flow screen that shows the procedural flow of "Check response manual" → "Request for approval" → "Response work in progress."

Fourth, the alarm management device 10 displays an alarm response flow screen as a flow screen (see FIG. 1 (a-4)). For example, the alarm management device 10 displays a flow screen showing the procedural flow of "Check response manual" → "Request for approval" → "Response work in progress" as an alarm response flow screen on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20 used by the corresponding operator O. At this time, the alarm management device 10 may indicate the progress of the alarm response operation by displaying buttons such as "Check response manual" in color (see the shaded area in FIG. 1 (a-3)).

Fifth, the corresponding operator O checks the response manual (see FIG. 1 (a-5)). For example, the corresponding operator O clicks the "Check response manual" button on the alarm response flow screen displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20, and checks the displayed online manual. At this time, the alarm management device 10 displays the online manual linked to the type of alarm that has occurred, the location of occurrence, the urgency, etc., on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20.

Sixth, the alarm management device 10 requests approval of the alarm response operation (see FIG. 1 (a-6)). For example, the corresponding operator O clicks the "approval request" button on the alarm response flow screen displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20. The alarm management device 10 also displays an approval request screen on the monitor of the higher-level operator terminal 30, which includes the type of work content in the alarm response operation that the corresponding operator O is to perform, a message requesting approval, and "approval" or "rejection" buttons. The higher-level operator M also checks the approval request screen displayed on the monitor of the higher-level operator terminal 30, and selects "approval" or "rejection" on the approval request screen.

Seventh, the responding operator O inputs the response content (see FIG. 1 (a-7)). For example, the responding operator O clicks on "Response in progress" on the alarm response flow screen displayed on the monitor of the responding operator terminal 20, and inputs the implementation status of the response work into the displayed text input screen.

Eighth, the corresponding operator terminal 20 transmits the input information (see FIG. 1 (a-8)). For example, the corresponding operator terminal 20 transmits the implementation status of the work content as input information input by the corresponding operator O to the alarm management device 10.

Ninth, the alarm management device 10 shares the status of the alarm operation (see FIG. 1 (a-9)). For example, shared operator C clicks the "Response in progress" button on the alarm response flow screen displayed on the monitor of the shared operator terminal 40, and checks the status of the alarm response operation being carried out by the displayed response operator O.

(1-2-2. Alarm shelving flow screen management process)
First, the alarm management device 10 notifies an alarm (see FIG. 1(b-1)). For example, the alarm management device 10 transmits an alarm indicating an abnormality in a process that has occurred in a plant to a corresponding operator terminal 20.

Second, the corresponding operator O selects the alarm shelving operation as the alarm operation (see FIG. 1(b-2)). For example, the corresponding operator O selects the alarm shelving operation on the alarm summary display screen displayed on the corresponding operator terminal 20. In addition, the corresponding operator terminal 20 transmits the selection of the alarm shelving operation to the alarm management device 10.

Thirdly, the alarm management device 10 generates an alarm shelving flow screen as a flow screen (see FIG. 1 (b-3)). For example, the alarm management device 10 generates an alarm shelving flow screen that shows the procedural flow for performing an alarm shelving operation based on the type of alarm that has occurred, the location where it occurred, the urgency, etc. In the example of FIG. 1 (b-3), a flow screen is generated as the alarm shelving flow screen that shows the procedural flow of "Enter reason/purpose" → "Request for approval" → "Shelving".

Fourth, the alarm management device 10 displays an alarm shelving flow screen as a flow screen (see FIG. 1 (b-4)). For example, the alarm management device 10 displays a flow screen showing the procedural flow of "Enter reason/purpose" → "Request approval" → "Shelving" on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20 used by the corresponding operator O as the alarm shelving flow screen. At this time, the alarm management device 10 may indicate the progress of the alarm shelving operation by displaying buttons such as "Enter reason/purpose" in color (see the shaded area in FIG. 1 (b-3)).

Fifth, the responding operator O inputs the reason or purpose (see FIG. 1 (b-5)). For example, the responding operator O clicks the "Input reason/purpose" button on the alarm response flow screen displayed on the monitor of the responding operator terminal 20, and inputs the reason or purpose for selecting the alarm shelving operation into the displayed text input screen.

Sixth, the corresponding operator terminal 20 transmits the input information (see FIG. 1 (b-6)). For example, the corresponding operator terminal 20 transmits the reason or purpose for selecting the alarm shelving operation as the input information input by the corresponding operator O to the alarm management device 10.

Seventh, the alarm management device 10 requests approval of the alarm shelving operation (see FIG. 1 (b-7)). For example, the corresponding operator O clicks the "approval request" button on the alarm shelving flow screen displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20. The alarm management device 10 also displays an approval request screen on the monitor of the higher-level operator terminal 30, which includes the reason or purpose for selecting the alarm shelving operation entered by the corresponding operator O, a message requesting approval, and "approval" or "rejection" buttons. The higher-level operator M also checks the approval request screen displayed on the monitor of the higher-level operator terminal 30, and selects "approval" or "rejection" on the approval request screen.

Eighth, the alarm management device 10 shares the status of the alarm operation (see FIG. 1 (b-8)). For example, shared operator C clicks the "Enter reason/purpose" button on the alarm shelving flow screen displayed on the monitor of the shared operator terminal 40, and confirms the reason or purpose for selecting the alarm shelving operation entered by the corresponding operator O. In addition, shared operator C confirms that "Shelving" is displayed on the alarm shelving flow screen displayed on the monitor of the shared operator terminal 40, and can recognize that the corresponding operator O has not currently started an alarm response operation.

(1-3. Effects of the Alarm Management System 100)
The following describes the background of the alarm management system 100P according to the reference technology, the functions required for the alarm management system 100P, an overview of the alarm management system 100P, and problems with the alarm management system 100P, and then describes the effects of the alarm management system 100.

(1-3-1. Background of the Alarm Management System 100P)
The alarm management system 100P is characterized by its function of quickly detecting dangers at a plant site, protecting the assets of the company, and protecting the lives of workers working at the site, and is therefore strictly standardized by international standards such as ISA18.2 and IEC62682. In the above standards, the basic alarm functions that the alarm management system 100P should satisfy are defined as required functions and recommended functions, and it has become essential in the industry for each control system vendor to implement an alarm management system 100P that complies with the above standards.

However, in the alarm management system 100P, various alarms occur, such as emergency alarms, non-urgent alarms, frequent alarms, and first-time alarms, so a response operator O or the like who monitors the alarms is required to immediately determine and implement appropriate measures in response to the alarm.

However, while the functionality of how alarms behave is being standardized, there are no strict rules for how responding operators O who monitor alarms should respond to alarms, and the current situation is that the alarm management system 100P does not support this. In addition, unique rules are often set at plant sites. For example, there are unique rules that require approval from a superior operator M before responding to an alarm, confirmation from another operator such as a shared operator C after responding to an alarm, and the responding operator O must leave a record when operating an alarm. In such cases, the specific means for implementing the unique rules are often low-tech methods that do not rely on the control system, or are implemented using a separate system.

For the above reasons, there is a demand for an alarm function in the alarm management system 100P that can assist users such as the corresponding operator O in operating the alarm without disrupting the alarm model based on ISA18.2 and IEC62682.

(1-3-2. Functions Required for the Alarm Management System 100P)
The functions required for the alarm management system 100P will be described. First, in alarm monitoring, the corresponding operator O should not leave the alarm summary screen while an alarm is occurring. This is because, at the plant site, it is possible that after an alarm occurs, a related alarm will occur later, or that the alarm state will not stabilize and will continue to transition. Therefore, the alarm management system 100P needs to reduce the burden on the corresponding operator O by supporting alarm operations and communication with the outside.

Secondly, it is important to record the alarm response status of the responding operator O, as well as the reason and purpose of the alarm operation, and by sharing the above information with other members in a simple manner, it is possible to prevent confusion at the plant site. Therefore, the alarm management system 100P needs to support the above status sharing, linking with the alarm status and sharing the status in real time.

Thirdly, due to the current trends, the number of experienced operators is decreasing, and inexperienced operators are often responsible for operations and monitoring. Experienced operators can understand the work sequence without looking at the corresponding manual, but inexperienced operators often need to confirm the procedure. Therefore, the alarm management system 100P needs a mechanism that allows experienced operators to check the response status from a remote environment.

(1-3-3. Overview of the Alarm Management System 100P)
An overview of the alarm management system 100P according to the reference technology will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram for explaining an alarm response operation according to the reference technology. In the following, the basic configuration of the alarm management system 100P will be described, and then an overview of the processing of the alarm management system 100P and problems with the alarm management system 100P will be described.

(1-3-3-1. Basic configuration of the alarm management system 100P)
The basic configuration of the alarm management system 100P will be described below. The following will explain the HMI (Human Machine Interface) function, the alarm manual, and the administrator in that order.

(HMI function)
First, the HMI function will be described. The HMI has a function of collecting generated alarms from the alarm management function and displaying alarm messages and current alarm statuses. A corresponding operator O can receive alarm notifications and know the current alarm statuses through the HMI.

The alarm summary screen display function is one of the HMI functions. The alarm summary screen displays a list of alarms to the corresponding operator O, and notifies the operator of the alarms using marks, text, sounds, etc. The corresponding operator O can also perform alarm confirmation operations, shelving operations (alarm shelving function), etc. on the alarm summary screen. The corresponding operator O can also respond to alarms (valve control, etc.) through the HMI.

(Alarm Manual)
Secondly, the alarm manual will be described. The alarm manual is a response manual that is defined for each alarm. The alarm manual may be in paper form or an online manual published on an intranet, depending on the plant site. In addition, since the alarm manual differs from plant site to plant site, it is often prepared by the users who use the plant, rather than by the control system vendor.

(Administrative Officer)
Thirdly, a description will be given of management personnel such as a superior or a high-ranking operator M. Many plant sites require approval or confirmation from management personnel such as a superior or a high-ranking operator M when implementing some kind of countermeasure against an alarm or after an alarm has been dealt with. In particular, for countermeasures that affect the behavior of an alarm, such as an alarm shelving operation, not only approval is required, but also in many cases it is mandatory to keep a record of the purpose and reason for the alarm shelving operation.

(1-3-3-2. Overview of Processing in the Alarm Management System 100P)
An overview of the processing of the alarm management system 100P will be described with reference to Fig. 2. In the alarm management system 100P, the corresponding operator O performs operation and monitoring while keeping the alarm summary screen open at all times and paying particular attention to whether any alarms that require a response have occurred. At this time, the corresponding operator O sorts and displays the alarms on the alarm summary screen according to the responding operator O's preference, such as priority order or order of occurrence, so that the responding operator O can focus on those that require an immediate response. For this reason, the corresponding operator O tries to avoid displaying alarms that do not require a response or do not require an immediate response as much as possible.

In the example of FIG. 2, the corresponding operator O performs the alarm response operation as follows. First, the corresponding operator O checks whether an alarm has occurred from the alarm summary screen displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20 (see FIG. 2 (1)). Second, when an alarm has occurred, the corresponding operator O checks the alarm manual (response manual) required for alarm response (see FIG. 2 (2)). Third, the corresponding operator O requests approval of the alarm response from the higher-ranking operator M, who is the manager, as necessary (see FIG. 2 (3)). Fourth, the higher-ranking operator M approves the alarm response (see FIG. 2 (4)). Fifth, the corresponding operator O uses the corresponding operator terminal 20 to respond to the alarm (see FIG. 2 (5)). Sixth, when the corresponding operator O has responded to the alarm, the corresponding operator O reports and confirms the alarm response results.

In the processing of the above-mentioned alarm management system 100P, the corresponding operator O may leave the HMI, i.e., the corresponding operator terminal 20, as necessary. In addition, in the alarm management system 100P, multiple alarms may occur simultaneously, and therefore, if priorities, required response times, etc. are set, even more complicated procedures are required.

In addition, in the alarm management system 100P, a function (alarm shelving function) that temporarily shelves a low-priority alarm when a higher-priority alarm is issued at the same time is defined as a required function in ISA18.2 and IEC62682. The corresponding operator O uses the above-mentioned alarm shelving function to perform an alarm shelving operation in order to concentrate on other tasks. The corresponding operator O also performs an alarm shelving operation with the intention of temporarily hiding a low-priority alarm in order to concentrate on responding to a high-priority alarm. However, due to the nature of the alarm shelving operation, which hides alarms, in many plant sites the approval of a higher-ranking operator M or the like is required, and it is a rule to leave the reason or purpose behind.

In a specific example, the corresponding operator O performs an alarm shelving operation as follows. First, the corresponding operator O checks whether an alarm has occurred from the alarm summary screen displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20. Second, if an alarm has occurred, the corresponding operator O decides to perform an alarm shelving operation and determines the shelving time for which the alarm response will be suspended. Third, the corresponding operator O records the reason and purpose for performing the alarm shelving operation. Fourth, the corresponding operator O requests approval of the alarm shelving from the higher-level operator M, who is the management representative, as necessary. Fourth, the higher-level operator M approves the alarm shelving. Fifth, the corresponding operator O performs the alarm shelving operation using the corresponding operator terminal 20.

In the processing of the above-mentioned alarm management system 100P, the corresponding operator O may leave the HMI, i.e., the corresponding operator terminal 20, as necessary.

In addition to the processes of the alarm management system 100P described above, there are many other alarm operations and response cases, and the rules and situations differ depending on the plant site.

(1-3-3-3. Problems with the alarm management system 100P)
Problems in the alarm management system 100P will be described in the following order: problem 1 related to the corresponding operator O, problem 2 related to the higher-level operator M, and problem 3 related to the shared operator C.

(Problem 1)
First, problem 1 related to the corresponding operator O will be described. The corresponding operator O needs to take his/her eyes off the HMI in order to check the corresponding manual or to communicate with the higher-level operator M. Therefore, while the corresponding operator O is taking his/her eyes off the HMI, the situation may change, such as the alarm status changing or an alarm with a higher priority being generated, which may lead to a dangerous situation.

(Problem 2)
Secondly, problem 2 related to the higher-level operator M will be described. When the corresponding operator O requests the higher-level operator M for approval, the corresponding operator O needs to obtain a captured image and take a note of an ID or the like for identifying the alarm type in order to convey alarm information and the like, and then report it to the higher-level operator M and the like. The trouble of the corresponding operator O having to communicate with the higher-level operator M as described above can impede the work of the corresponding operator O and cause a delay in response.

(Problem 3)
Thirdly, problem 3 related to shared operator C will be described. There are cases where shared operator C is unable to know the status of corresponding operator O and only finds out verbally later, resulting in delayed information sharing. As a result, shared operator C may end up dealing with the same alarm multiple times, or the reason or purpose for the response may not be shared, causing confusion as the alarm suddenly disappears.

(1-3-4. Overview of the alarm management system 100)
An overview of the alarm management system 100 will be described below. The following describes an alarm response flow screen management process and an alarm shelving flow screen management process in that order.

(Alarm response flow screen management process)
In the alarm management system 100, an alarm response flow screen management process is executed as follows. First, the alarm management device 10 transmits an alarm. Second, the corresponding operator O selects an alarm response operation as an alarm operation. Third, the alarm management device 10 generates an alarm response flow screen as a flow screen. Fourth, the alarm management device 10 displays the alarm response flow screen as a flow screen. Fifth, the corresponding operator O checks the response manual. Sixth, the alarm management device 10 requests approval of the alarm response operation. Seventh, the corresponding operator O inputs the response content. Eighth, the corresponding operator terminal 20 transmits the input information. Ninth, the alarm management device 10 shares the status of the alarm operation.

(Alarm shelving flow screen management process)
In the alarm management system 100, an alarm shelving flow screen management process is executed as follows. First, the alarm management device 10 transmits an alarm. Second, the corresponding operator O selects an alarm shelving operation as an alarm operation. Third, the alarm management device 10 generates an alarm shelving flow screen as a flow screen. Fourth, the alarm management device 10 displays the alarm shelving flow screen as a flow screen. Fifth, the corresponding operator O inputs a reason or purpose. Sixth, the corresponding operator terminal 20 transmits the input information. Seventh, the alarm management device 10 requests approval of the alarm shelving operation. Eighth, the alarm management device 10 shares the status of the alarm operation.

(1-3-5. Effects of the alarm management system 100)
The effects of the alarm management system 100 will be described below. The effects will be explained in the order of effect 1 related to the corresponding operator O, effect 2 related to the higher-level operator M, and effect 3 related to the shared operator C.

(Effect 1)
First, effect 1 related to the corresponding operator O will be described. In the alarm management system 100, the corresponding operator O can complete within the system the parts that previously relied on external systems or other media, such as manual display, approval and confirmation, and input of the reason for shelving operation, so that the time spent away from the HMI is reduced and the operator can concentrate on alarm monitoring. Also, in the alarm management system 100, the system links the approval and confirmation mechanisms, and automatically notifies the approver or confirmer, such as the higher-level operator M, of the corresponding alarm along with its information and status, thereby saving the corresponding operator O the trouble of explaining the situation.

In addition, the alarm management system 100 uses a flow screen to navigate the work procedures for responding to alarms, so even inexperienced responding operators O can respond smoothly, and another experienced shared operator C can check the situation in a remote environment and provide support.

(Effect 2)
Secondly, effect 2 related to the higher-level operator M will be described. In the alarm management system 100, approvers and confirmers such as the higher-level operator M can know that a request has been made by a notification from the system (external media such as chat within the system or email). Also, in the alarm management system 100, the higher-level operator M can check the notified content and approve or confirm through the system, or operate through email or a web page. Also, in the alarm management system 100, the request notification is accompanied by notes such as information on the target alarm, its current status, and the reason and purpose of the corresponding operator O's operation, so that the target request content can be recognized even if a person in charge is not present.

(Effect 3)
Thirdly, effect 3 related to shared operator C will be described. In the alarm management system 100, shared operator C can check the response status of an alarm from the flow screen. In this case, the alarm management system 100 introduces a mechanism that applies exclusive logic so that shared operator C cannot respond if someone else proceeds with the response, thereby eliminating redundant responses. Also, in the alarm management system 100, even if the alarm status changes due to an alarm shelving operation or the like, the status can be checked via the flow screen and the reasons and purposes can be shared, preventing confusion.

As described above, the alarm management system 100 reduces the burden on the responding operator O who monitors alarms, and enables the system to support the operator so that he or she can focus on monitoring important alarms. In other words, the alarm management system 100 can support the implementation of measures against alarms.

2. Configuration and Processing of Each Device in the Alarm Management System 100
The configuration and processing of the alarm management device 10 included in the alarm management system 100 shown in Fig. 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of each device of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment. Below, an example of the overall configuration of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described, and then an example of the configuration and processing of the alarm management device 10, an example of the configuration and processing of the corresponding operator terminal 20, an example of the configuration and processing of the upper operator terminal 30, and an example of the configuration and processing of the shared operator terminal 40 will be described in detail.

(2-1. Example of Overall Configuration of Alarm Management System 100)
An example of the overall configuration of the alarm management system 100 shown in Fig. 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the alarm management system 100 has an alarm management device 10, a corresponding operator terminal 20, a higher-level operator terminal 30, and a shared operator terminal 40. The alarm management device 10 is communicatively connected to the corresponding operator terminal 20, the higher-level operator terminal 30, and the shared operator terminal 40 via a communication network N realized by the Internet, a dedicated line, or the like.

(2-2. Configuration and Processing Examples of the Alarm Management Device 10)
An example of the configuration and processing of the alarm management device 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The alarm management device 10 has a communication unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13. The alarm management device 10 may also have an input unit (e.g., a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that accepts various operations from an administrator of the alarm management device 10, and a display unit (e.g., a liquid crystal display, etc.) that displays various information.

(2-2-1. Communication unit 11)
The communication unit 11 is responsible for data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 11 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. The communication unit 11 can also perform data communication with an operator's terminal (not shown).

(2-2-2. Storage unit 12)
The storage unit 12 stores various information referenced when the control unit 13 operates and various information acquired when the control unit 13 operates. The storage unit 12 includes an alarm response flow screen storage unit 12a and an alarm shelving unit 12b. The storage unit 12 may be implemented by a semiconductor memory device such as a random access memory (RAM) or a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. In the example of FIG. 3, the storage unit 12 is installed inside the alarm management device 10, but it may be installed outside the alarm management device 10, or multiple storage units may be installed.

The memory unit 12 stores operation procedures for each countermeasure that can be implemented in response to an alarm of a monitored device. For example, the memory unit 12 stores operation procedures including an immediate response flow screen (alarm response flow screen) showing operation procedures for immediate response operations to an alarm. The memory unit 12 also stores operation procedures including a shelving flow screen (alarm shelving flow screen) showing operation procedures for shelving operations to postpone response to an alarm for a certain period of time and respond after the certain period of time has elapsed.

(2-2-2-1. Alarm Response Flow Screen Storage Unit 12a)
The alarm response flow screen storage unit 12a stores an alarm response flow screen acquired by the output unit 13c of the control unit 13, which will be described later. An example of data stored in the alarm response flow screen storage unit 12a will now be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the alarm response flow screen storage unit 12a of the alarm management device 10 according to the embodiment.

In other words, FIG. 4 shows an example in which image data showing the operation procedure for an immediate response operation, "Check response manual" → "Request for approval" → "Response in progress," is stored in the alarm response flow screen storage unit 12a.

(2-2-2-2. Alarm shelving flow screen storage unit 12b)
The alarm shelving flow screen storage unit 12b stores an alarm shelving flow screen acquired by the output unit 13c of the control unit 13, which will be described later. An example of data stored in the alarm shelving flow screen storage unit 12b will now be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the alarm shelving flow screen storage unit 12b of the alarm management device 10 according to the embodiment.

In other words, FIG. 5 shows an example in which image data that displays "input reason/purpose" → "request approval" → "shelving" as the operation procedure for the shelving operation is stored in the alarm shelving flow screen storage unit 12b.

(2-2-3. Control unit 13)
The control unit 13 is responsible for controlling the entire alarm management device 10. The control unit 13 has a receiving unit 13a, an accepting unit 13b, and an output unit 13c. Here, the control unit 13 can be realized by, for example, an electronic circuit such as a central processing unit (CPU) or a micro processing unit (MPU), or an integrated circuit such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a field programmable gate array (FPGA).

(2-2-3-1. Receiving unit 13a)
The receiving unit 13a receives various types of information. The receiving unit 13a may store the received various types of information in the storage unit 12. For example, the receiving unit 13a receives an alarm of a monitored device transmitted by a control device having an alarm detection function. The receiving unit 13a also receives an alarm of a monitored device transmitted by a server device having an alarm detection function. The receiving unit 13a can also receive sensor values and process values transmitted by monitored devices, control devices, server devices, etc. that do not have an alarm detection function, and detect alarms.

Here, the monitored equipment refers to, but is not limited to, sensor equipment, communication equipment, control equipment, etc., which are components of the plant control system. Also, the alarm refers to, but is not limited to, an alarm that indicates an abnormality in the plant or the monitored equipment in the plant control system that controls the plant.

(2-2-3-2. Reception unit 13b)
The receiving unit 13b receives various types of information. The receiving unit 13b may store the received various types of information in the storage unit 12. For example, the receiving unit 13b receives a possible countermeasure against an alarm selected by a user.

In other words, the reception unit 13b accepts an immediate response operation that immediately responds to an alarm selected by the user as an actionable measure. The reception unit 13b also accepts a shelving operation that suspends a response for a certain period of time and responds after the certain period of time has elapsed as an actionable measure.

To explain a specific example, when the corresponding operator O clicks a button such as "Respond to this alarm immediately" on the alarm summary screen of the corresponding operator terminal 20, the reception unit 13b accepts an immediate response operation. In addition, when the corresponding operator O clicks a button such as "Shelve this alarm" on the alarm summary screen of the corresponding operator terminal 20, the reception unit 13b accepts a shelving operation.

(2-2-3-3. Output section 13c)
The output unit 13c outputs various information. The output unit 13c acquires and outputs various information stored in the storage unit 12. For example, the output unit 13c outputs a practicable measure selected by the user. The operation procedure associated with the operation information is acquired from the storage unit 12 and output to the user. At this time, the output unit 13c may display the operation procedure as image data or as video data. Alternatively, the process may be reproduced as audio data. The process will be described below in the order of the flow screen display process, the response manual screen display process, the input screen display process, the status sharing screen display process, and the approval request screen display process.

(Flow screen display process)
The output unit 13c executes a flow screen display process. That is, the output unit 13c acquires an immediate response flow screen or a shelving flow screen associated with the executable measure selected by the user from the storage unit 12, and displays the immediate response flow screen or the shelving flow screen on the user terminal of the user.

To explain a specific example of an alarm response flow screen, when an immediate response operation is accepted by the acceptance unit 13b as a feasible measure, the output unit 13c acquires an alarm response flow screen linked to the immediate response operation from the alarm response flow screen storage unit 12a, and displays an "alarm response flow screen" showing the procedural flow of "check response manual" → "request for approval" → "response work in progress" on the monitor of the response operator terminal 20 of the response operator O, who is the user.

To explain a specific example of the alarm shelving flow screen, when the reception unit 13b has received a shelving operation as a feasible measure, the output unit 13c retrieves an alarm shelving flow screen linked to the shelving operation from the alarm shelving flow screen storage unit 12b, and displays an "alarm shelving flow screen" showing the procedural flow of "input reason/purpose" → "request for approval" → "shelving" on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20 of the corresponding operator O, who is the user.

(Display process for corresponding manual screen)
The output unit 13c executes a response manual screen display process, that is, the output unit 13c displays a response manual indicating the content of the work to be performed by the user in response to the alarm on the immediate response flow screen or the shelving flow screen in accordance with the selection of the user.

To explain a specific example of the alarm response flow screen, when an immediate response operation is accepted by the acceptance unit 13b as a feasible measure, the output unit 13c displays an online manual showing the work to be done in response to the generated alarm when the response operator O clicks a button such as "Check response manual" on the alarm response flow screen.

To explain a specific example of the alarm shelving flow screen, when the reception unit 13b has accepted the shelving operation as a feasible measure, the output unit 13c displays an online manual showing the work to be done in response to the generated alarm when the corresponding operator O clicks a button such as "End shelving" or "Take inventory" on the alarm response flow screen.

(Input screen display process)
The output unit 13c executes an input screen display process. That is, the output unit 13c displays an input screen for inputting the work content performed by the user for the alarm in response to the selection of the user on the immediate response flow screen. Also, the output unit 13c displays an input screen for inputting the reason or purpose for which the user selected the shelving operation for the alarm in response to the selection of the user on the shelving flow screen.

To explain a specific example of the alarm response flow screen, when an immediate response operation is accepted by the acceptance unit 13b as a viable measure, when the response operator O clicks a button such as "Response in progress" on the alarm response flow screen, the output unit 13c displays a text input screen for inputting the details of the operation carried out by the user in response to the alarm together with a message such as "Please enter the operation details."

To explain a specific example of the alarm shelving flow screen, when the reception unit 13b has accepted the shelving operation as a viable measure, when the corresponding operator O clicks a button such as "Enter reason/purpose" on the alarm shelving flow screen, the output unit 13c displays a text input screen for the user to input the reason or purpose for selecting the shelving operation for the alarm together with a message such as "Please enter the reason/purpose for shelving."

(Status sharing screen display processing)
The output unit 13c executes a status sharing screen display process. That is, after the output unit 13c receives an immediate response operation for the same alarm from a second user after receiving an immediate response operation for the same alarm from a first user, When the operation is accepted, an immediate response flow screen corresponding to the immediate response operation, a progress status of the immediate response operation, and the work content input by the first user to the input screen of the immediate response flow screen are displayed. In addition, when a shelving operation for an alarm is accepted from a second user after a shelving operation for the same alarm is accepted from a first user, the output unit 13c outputs a shelving flow associated with the shelving operation. The screen displays the progress of the shelving operation and the reason or purpose input by the first user to the input screen of the shelving flow screen.

To explain a specific example of the alarm response flow screen, the output unit 13c displays an alarm response flow screen for an alarm that the corresponding operator O is responding to on the monitor of the shared operator terminal 40 used by the shared operator C, and when the shared operator C clicks a button such as "Response in progress" on the alarm response flow screen, a dialog box is displayed that describes the work that the corresponding operator O performed in response to the alarm, along with a message such as "Work that has already been performed will be displayed." At this time, the output unit 13c can also display a colored (e.g., red) button indicating the operating procedure currently being performed (e.g., "Check response manual") to indicate the progress.

To explain a specific example of the alarm shelving flow screen, the output unit 13c displays an alarm shelving flow screen for an alarm that is being shelved by the corresponding operator O on the monitor of the shared operator terminal 40 used by the shared operator C, and when the shared operator C clicks a button such as "Enter reason/purpose" on the alarm shelving flow screen, a dialog box is displayed that describes the reason or purpose for which the user selected the shelving operation for the alarm, along with a message such as "The reason/purpose for shelving will be displayed." At this time, the output unit 13c can also display a colored (e.g., red) button indicating the currently implemented operating procedure (e.g., "Enter reason/purpose") to indicate the progress.

(Approval request screen display process)
The output unit 13c executes an approval request screen display process. That is, the output unit 13c displays a screen on an immediate response flow screen on an administrator terminal of an administrator managing a monitored device in which an alarm has occurred, where the administrator can request approval of the work content to be performed by a user in response to the alarm. Also, the output unit 13c displays a screen on a shelving flow screen on an administrator terminal of an administrator managing a monitored device in which an alarm has occurred, where the administrator can request approval of a shelving operation for the alarm.

To explain a specific example of the alarm response flow screen, when an immediate response operation is accepted by the acceptance unit 13b as a feasible measure, the output unit 13c displays a window on the monitor of the upper operator terminal 30 used by the upper operator M, which displays a message such as "XXXXXX response will be implemented. Please approve it," along with buttons such as "Approve" and "Reject."

To explain a specific example of the alarm shelving flow screen, when the reception unit 13b accepts the shelving operation as a feasible measure, the output unit 13c displays a window on the monitor of the upper operator terminal 30 used by the upper operator M, which displays a message such as "Shelved for 24 hours to deal with XXXXX" along with buttons such as "Approve" and "Reject".

(2-3. Configuration example of the corresponding operator terminal 20)
An example of the responding operator terminal 20 shown in Fig. 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The responding operator terminal 20 is a terminal used by a responding operator O who responds to an alarm, and includes an input/output unit 21, a transmission/reception unit 22, and a communication unit 23.

(2-3-1. Input/output section 21)
The input/output unit 21 is responsible for inputting various information to the corresponding operator terminal 20. For example, the input/output unit 21 is realized by a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or the like, and is used for inputting setting information, etc. to the corresponding operator terminal 20. The input/output unit 21 also controls the display of various information from the corresponding operator terminal 20. For example, the input/output unit 21 is realized by a display or the like, and receives settings stored in the corresponding operator terminal 20. Controls the display of information, etc.

The input/output unit 21 controls the display of an alarm summary screen that shows a list of alarms sent from the alarm management device 10. The input/output unit 21 also controls the display of an alarm response flow screen sent from the alarm management device 10. The input/output unit 21 also controls the display of an alarm shelving flow screen sent from the alarm management device 10.

(2-3-2. Transmitter/receiver 22)
The transmitting/receiving unit 22 transmits various information. For example, the transmitting/receiving unit 22 transmits an immediate response operation for immediately responding to an alarm selected by the corresponding operator O as an executable measure to the alarm management device 10. The transmitting/receiving unit 22 also transmits a shelving operation for suspending a response for a certain period of time selected by the corresponding operator O and responding after the certain period of time has elapsed as an executable measure to the alarm management device 10.

The transmission/reception unit 22 receives various information. For example, the transmission/reception unit 22 receives image data of an alarm response flow screen transmitted from the alarm management device 10. The transmission/reception unit 22 also receives image data of an alarm shelving flow screen transmitted from the alarm management device 10.

(2-3-3. Communication unit 23)
The communication unit 23 is responsible for data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 23 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. The communication unit 23 can also perform data communication with an operator's terminal (not shown).

(2-4. Configuration Example of Upper Operator Terminal 30)
An example of the upper operator terminal 30 shown in Fig. 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The upper operator terminal 30 is a terminal used by a higher operator M who supervises a corresponding operator O and a shared operator C, and includes an input/output unit 31, a transmission/reception unit 32, and a communication unit 33.

(2-4-1. Input/output section 31)
The input/output unit 31 is responsible for inputting various information to the upper operator terminal 30. For example, the input/output unit 31 is realized by a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, etc., and is used for inputting setting information, etc. to the upper operator terminal 30. The input/output unit 31 also controls the display of various information from the upper operator terminal 30. For example, the input/output unit 31 is realized by a display or the like, and receives settings stored in the upper operator terminal 30. Controls the display of information, etc.

The input/output unit 31 controls the display of an approval request screen transmitted from the alarm management device 10, on which a user can request approval for the work to be performed on the alarm. The input/output unit 31 also controls the display of an approval request screen transmitted from the alarm management device 10, on which a user can request approval for a shelving operation on the alarm.

(2-4-2. Transmitter/receiver 32)
The transmitting/receiving unit 32 transmits various information. For example, in response to a request for approval of the content of work to be performed by a user in response to an alarm transmitted from the alarm management device 10, the transmitting/receiving unit 32 transmits a response of approval or rejection to the alarm management device 10. In addition, in response to a request for approval of a shelving operation in response to an alarm transmitted from the alarm management device 10, the transmitting/receiving unit 32 transmits a response of approval or rejection to the alarm management device 10.

The transmission/reception unit 32 receives various information. For example, the transmission/reception unit 32 receives image data of an approval request screen for the work to be performed by a user in response to an alarm, transmitted from the alarm management device 10. The transmission/reception unit 32 also receives image data of an approval request screen for a shelving operation in response to an alarm, transmitted from the alarm management device 10.

(2-4-3. Communication unit 33)
The communication unit 33 is responsible for data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 33 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. The communication unit 33 can also perform data communication with an operator's terminal (not shown).

(2-5. Configuration Example of Shared Operator Terminal 40)
An example of the shared operator terminal 40 shown in Fig. 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The shared operator terminal 40 is a terminal used by a shared operator C who shares the situation with a corresponding operator O who responds to an alarm, and has an input/output unit 41, a transmission/reception unit 42, and a communication unit 43.

(2-5-1. Input/output section 41)
The input/output unit 41 is responsible for inputting various information to the shared operator terminal 40. For example, the input/output unit 41 is realized by a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or the like, and is used for inputting setting information, etc. to the shared operator terminal 40. The input/output unit 41 also controls the display of various information from the shared operator terminal 40. For example, the input/output unit 41 is realized by a display or the like, and receives settings stored in the shared operator terminal 40. Controls the display of information, etc.

The input/output unit 41 controls the display of a status sharing screen on which the progress of the immediate response operation and the work content input by the corresponding operator O can be viewed in the immediate response flow screen transmitted from the alarm management device 10. The input/output unit 41 also controls the display of a status sharing screen on which the progress of the shelving operation and the reason or purpose input by the corresponding operator O can be viewed in the shelving response flow screen transmitted from the alarm management device 10.

(2-5-2. Transmitter/receiver 42)
The transmitting/receiving unit 42 transmits various information. For example, the transmitting/receiving unit 42 transmits to the alarm management device 10 a request to view the work content input by the corresponding operator O via the immediate response flow screen transmitted from the alarm management device 10. The transmitting/receiving unit 42 also transmits to the alarm management device 10 a request to view the reason or purpose input by the corresponding operator O via the shelving response flow screen transmitted from the alarm management device 10.

The transmission/reception unit 42 receives various information. For example, the transmission/reception unit 42 receives text data of a status sharing screen on which the progress of the immediate response operation and the work content entered by the corresponding operator O can be viewed via an immediate response flow screen transmitted from the alarm management device 10. The transmission/reception unit 42 also receives text data of a status sharing screen on which the progress of the shelving operation and the reason or purpose entered by the corresponding operator O can be viewed via a shelving response flow screen transmitted from the alarm management device 10.

(2-5-3. Communication unit 43)
The communication unit 43 is responsible for data communication with other devices. For example, the communication unit 43 performs data communication with each communication device via a router, etc. The communication unit 43 can also perform data communication with an operator's terminal (not shown).

3. Specific Examples of Processes in the Alarm Management System 100
6 and 7, a specific example of each process of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. In the following, a basic configuration of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described, followed by a specific example of an alarm response flow screen management process executed by the alarm management system 100, a specific example of an alarm shelving flow screen management process, and an application example of the alarm management system 100.

(3-1. Basic Configuration of Alarm Management System 100)
The basic configuration of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described below in the order of the flow screen and the operator note function.

(3-1-1. Flow screen)
First, a flow screen according to the embodiment will be described. The flow screen is displayed as a flow screen showing a response flow in a flowchart format for each alarm operation (such as confirming an alarm, shelving, and inventorying). The flow screen can be displayed by a simple operation such as clicking or double-clicking from an alarm summary screen or the like.

The flow screen shows at a glance which process the user is currently in (e.g. the corresponding flow is highlighted in color), and has functions such as displaying the online manual and the approval request screen with the higher-level operator M, allowing work to be completed within the system. In this case, approval requests to the higher-level operator M can be made using notifications within the system or notifications such as email.

In addition, the flow screen can share operator notes (described below) with the corresponding operator O, higher-level operator M, shared operator C, etc. for each process in the flow.

(3-1-2. Operator Note Function)
Secondly, an operator note function according to the embodiment will be described. The operator note function is a function for sharing operation notes left by the corresponding operator O with other operators and interactively receiving replies. The operator note function also includes approval and confirmation functions, so that by selecting a destination and sending an approval request, a notification (chat within the system, email, etc.) is sent to the approver of the destination. Approvers such as a higher-level operator M can approve or confirm through the system (or by replying to email when the operator is out). The operator note function can also set write and read permissions for each user.

The operator note function also works in conjunction with the flow screen, and by making it mandatory to input the reason and purpose in the approval and operator notes, the flow is locked and cannot proceed further until approval is granted or the reason and purpose have been input. Furthermore, with the operator note function, if approval is rejected, the corresponding operator O can check the reason for rejection, take appropriate action, and make the approval request again.

(3-2. Specific Example of Alarm Response Flow Screen Management Process)
A specific example of an alarm response flow screen management process executed by the alarm management system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing a specific example of an alarm response flow screen management process according to an embodiment.

In the example of FIG. 6, the corresponding operator O performs the alarm response operation as follows. First, the corresponding operator O checks whether an alarm has occurred from the alarm summary screen displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20, and selects normal response (immediate response) when an alarm has occurred (see FIG. 6 (1)). Second, the corresponding operator O clicks the "Check Response Manual" button on the "Alarm Response Flow Screen" displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20, and checks the displayed online manual (see FIG. 6 (2)). Third, the corresponding operator O clicks the "Request Approval" button on the "Alarm Response Flow Screen" displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20, and requests the upper-level operator M to approve the alarm response (see FIG. 6 (3)). At this time, the upper-level operator M can select approval or rejection of the alarm response on the approval request screen displayed on the monitor of the upper-level operator terminal 30. Fourth, the corresponding operator O clicks the "Response in progress" button on the "Alarm response flow screen" displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20 and inputs the details of the alarm response work that was performed into the operator notebook (see FIG. 6 (4)). Fifth, the shared operator C can check the details of the work performed by the corresponding operator O by clicking the "Response in progress" button on the "Alarm response flow screen" displayed on the monitor of the shared operator terminal 40 (see FIG. 6 (5)).

The flow in the above alarm response flow screen can be designed for each user as alarm engineering. In addition, based on the type of alarm that has occurred, the location where it occurred, the urgency, etc., it is also possible to set operations to a specific flow (e.g. "check the response manual") as mandatory operations. In addition, based on the type of alarm that has occurred, the location where it occurred, the urgency, etc., it is also possible to set emergency response measures that do not go through the alarm response flow screen.

(3-3. Specific Example of Alarm Shelving Flow Screen Management Process)
A specific example of an alarm shelving flow screen management process executed by the alarm management system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a specific example of an alarm shelving flow screen management process according to an embodiment.

In the example of FIG. 7, the corresponding operator O performs the alarm shelving operation as follows. First, the corresponding operator O checks whether an alarm has occurred from the alarm summary screen displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20, and selects shelving if an alarm has occurred (see FIG. 7 (1)). Second, the corresponding operator O clicks the "Input reason/purpose" button on the "Alarm shelving flow screen" displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20, and inputs the reason or purpose for shelving the alarm in the operator note (see FIG. 7 (2)). Third, the corresponding operator O clicks the "Request approval" button on the "Alarm shelving flow screen" displayed on the monitor of the corresponding operator terminal 20, and requests the upper operator M to approve the alarm response (see FIG. 7 (3)). At this time, the upper operator M can select approval or rejection of shelving on the approval request screen displayed on the monitor of the upper operator terminal 30. Fourth, shared operator C can confirm the reason or purpose for shelving entered by responding operator O by clicking the "Enter reason/purpose" button on the "Alarm response flow screen" displayed on the monitor of shared operator terminal 40 (see FIG. 7 (4)).

The flow in the above alarm shelving flow screen can be designed for each user as alarm engineering. In addition, based on the type of alarm that occurred, the location where it occurred, the urgency, etc., it is also possible to set operations for a specific flow (e.g. "input reason/purpose") as mandatory operations. In addition, based on the type of alarm that occurred, the location where it occurred, the urgency, etc., it is also possible to set emergency response measures that do not go through the alarm shelving flow screen.

(3-4. Application Examples of the Alarm Management System 100)
In the following, application examples of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described in the order of education support and accumulation of know-how.

(3-4-1. Educational Support)
As an application example of the alarm management system 100, educational support from an expert to a novice will be described. The alarm management system 100 can be used as an educational function for inexperienced beginners by combining it with a function for simulating accident conditions in a plant using a plant control system. Here, since the number of experts is limited, it is conceivable that there may be cases where experts are not on-site but are only in a remote environment. Even in such cases, the alarm management system 100 can support thorough education by linking with the system.

For example, the alarm management system 100 uses a simulator to recreate the alarm occurrence situation on the day of the accident, allowing an expert to provide support in real time through an operator's notes. With the alarm management system 100P of the reference technology, it was difficult to conduct dry runs outside the system, such as approval procedures, but the alarm management system 100 makes it easy to conduct the above dry runs within the system. Furthermore, by linking voice calling and video chat functions with the flow screen, the alarm management system 100 can advance education while taking advantage of more interactive communication.

(3-4-2. Accumulation of know-how)
As an application example of the alarm management system 100, an example of accumulating operator notes as know-how will be described. The alarm management system 100 records a history of responses to alarms, and accumulates information in the operator notes about who responded and how, what problems occurred, and so on, thereby accumulating the information as a collection of know-how. The above know-how can also be utilized in similar jobs, and can be utilized as reference information during operation or as educational material.

In addition, the alarm management system 100 records the actual response history of the responding operator O, so that when an accident or other incident actually occurs, more effective countermeasures can be considered rather than simply viewing an error log.

4. Flow of each process in the alarm management system 100
8 and 9, the flow of each process in the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described. The following describes the alarm response flow screen management process and the alarm shelving flow screen management process according to the embodiment in that order.

(4-1. Alarm Response Flow Screen Management Processing)
The flow of the alarm response flow screen management process of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of the alarm response flow screen management process of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment. Below, the alarm response flow screen management process will be described in the order of alarm response selection management process, alarm response flow screen management process, response manual management process, work content approval management process, and alarm response status sharing management process. Note that the processes of steps S101 to S117 below can also be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes of steps S101 to S117 below may be omitted.

(4-1-1. Alarm response selection management process)
The alarm management system 100 executes an alarm response selection management process shown in the following steps S101 to S105.

First, the alarm management device 10 executes an alarm information creation process (step S101). Second, the alarm management device 10 executes an alarm information transmission process (step S102). Third, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes an alarm screen display process (step S103). Fourth, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes an alarm response selection process (step S104). Fifth, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes a selection information transmission process (step S105).

(4-1-2. Alarm Response Flow Screen Management Processing)
The alarm management system 100 executes an alarm response flow screen management process shown by the processes of steps S106 to S108 below.

First, the alarm management device 10 executes an alarm response flow screen information generation process (step S106). Second, the alarm management device 10 executes an alarm response flow screen information transmission process (step S107). Third, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes an alarm response flow screen display process (step S108).

(4-1-3. Response manual management process)
The alarm management system 100 executes a response manual management process shown by the processes of steps S109 to S110 below.

First, the alarm management device 10 executes a manual information transmission process (step S109). Second, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes a corresponding manual display process (step S110).

(4-1-4. Work content approval management process)
The alarm management system 100 executes a work content approval management process shown in the following steps S111 to S113.

First, the alarm management device 10 executes a work content approval request transmission process (step S111). Second, the upper operator terminal 30 executes a work content approval process (step S112). Third, the upper operator terminal 30 executes a work content approval transmission process (step S113).

(4-1-5. Alarm response status sharing management process)
The alarm management system 100 executes an alarm response status sharing management process shown in the following steps S114 to S117.

First, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes a response content input process (step S114). Second, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes an input information transmission process (step S115). Third, the alarm management device 10 executes an input information storage process (step S116). Fourth, the alarm management device 10 executes an input information transmission process (step S117).

(4-2. Alarm shelving flow screen management process)
The flow of the alarm shelving flow screen management process of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of the alarm shelving flow screen management process of the alarm management system 100 according to the embodiment. Below, the alarm shelving flow screen management process will be described in the order of alarm shelving selection management process, alarm shelving flow screen management process, alarm shelving status sharing management process, and alarm shelving approval management process. Note that the processes of steps S201 to S215 below can also be executed in a different order. Also, some of the processes of steps S201 to S215 below may be omitted.

(4-2-1. Alarm shelving selection management process)
The alarm management system 100 executes an alarm shelving selection management process shown in the following steps S201 to S205.

First, the alarm management device 10 executes an alarm information creation process (step S201). Second, the alarm management device 10 executes an alarm information transmission process (step S202). Third, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes an alarm screen display process (step S203). Fourth, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes an alarm shelving selection process (step S204). Fifth, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes a selection information transmission process (step S205).

(4-2-2. Alarm shelving flow screen management process)
The alarm management system 100 executes an alarm shelving flow screen management process shown in the following steps S206 to S208.

First, the alarm management device 10 executes an alarm shelving flow screen information generation process (step S206). Second, the alarm management device 10 executes an alarm shelving flow screen information transmission process (step S207). Third, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes an alarm shelving flow screen display process (step S208).

(4-2-3. Alarm shelving status sharing management process)
The alarm management system 100 executes an alarm shelving status sharing management process shown by the processes of steps S209 to S212 below.

First, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes a reason/purpose input process (step S209). Second, the corresponding operator terminal 20 executes an input information transmission process (step S210). Third, the alarm management device 10 executes an input information storage process (step S211). Fourth, the alarm management device 10 executes an input information transmission process (step S212).

(4-2-4. Alarm shelving approval management process)
The alarm management system 100 executes an alarm shelving acknowledgement management process shown in the following steps S213 to S215.

First, the alarm management device 10 executes an alarm shelving approval request transmission process (step S213). Second, the upper-level operator terminal 30 executes an alarm shelving approval process (step S214). Third, the upper-level operator terminal 30 executes an alarm shelving approval transmission process (step S215).

5. Effects of the embodiment
Finally, the effects of the embodiment will be described below: Effects 1 to 8 corresponding to the processing according to the embodiment will be described below.

(5-1. Effect 1)
First, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the alarm management device 10 stores an operation procedure for each countermeasure that can be implemented for an alarm of a monitored device, transmits the alarm of the monitored device, accepts a countermeasure for the alarm selected by the corresponding operator O, obtains an operation procedure linked to the countermeasure selected by the corresponding operator O, and outputs the operation procedure to the corresponding operator O. Therefore, this process can support the implementation of countermeasures against alarms implemented by the corresponding operator O.

(5-2. Effect 2)
Secondly, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the alarm management device 10 stores operation procedures including an alarm response flow screen showing an operation procedure for an alarm response operation for immediately responding to an alarm, and an alarm shelving flow screen showing an operation procedure for an alarm shelving operation for responding to an alarm after a certain period of time has elapsed after deferring a response to the alarm for that period of time, acquires an alarm response flow screen or an alarm shelving flow screen linked to a measure selected by the corresponding operator O, and displays it on the corresponding operator terminal 20 of the corresponding operator O. For this reason, in this process, by displaying the flow screen, it is possible to support the corresponding operator O in implementing measures against the alarm.

(5-3. Effect 3)
Thirdly, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the alarm management device 10 displays a response manual indicating the work to be performed by the response operator O in response to the alarm on the alarm response flow screen or the alarm shelving flow screen in accordance with the selection of the response operator O. Therefore, in this process, by displaying a flow screen linked to the response manual, it is possible to support the response operator O in taking measures against the alarm.

(5-4. Effect 4)
Fourth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the alarm response flow screen has an input screen for inputting the work content of the countermeasure implemented by the corresponding operator O, and when the alarm management device 10 receives an alarm response operation for the same alarm from a shared operator C after receiving an alarm response operation for the alarm from the corresponding operator O, it displays the alarm response flow screen associated with the alarm response operation, the progress of the alarm response operation, and the work content input by the corresponding operator O into the input screen of the alarm response flow screen. For this reason, in this process, by displaying a flow screen linked to an operator note indicating the response content, it is possible to support the corresponding operator O in implementing the countermeasure for the alarm.

(5-5. Effect 5)
Fifth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the alarm shelving flow screen has an input screen for inputting the reason or purpose for which the corresponding operator O selected the alarm shelving operation for the alarm, and when the alarm management device 10 receives an alarm shelving operation for the same alarm from a shared operator C after receiving an alarm shelving operation for the alarm from the corresponding operator O, it displays the alarm shelving flow screen associated with the alarm shelving operation, the progress of the alarm shelving operation, and the reason or purpose for which the corresponding operator O entered the input screen of the alarm shelving flow screen. Therefore, in this process, by displaying a flow screen linked to an operator note indicating the reason or purpose for shelving, it is possible to support the corresponding operator O in taking measures against the alarm.

(5-6. Effect 6)
Sixth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the alarm management device 10 displays, on the upper operator terminal 30 of the upper operator M managing the monitored device in which the alarm has occurred, a screen on the alarm response flow screen where the response operator O can request approval of the work content to be performed in response to the alarm. Therefore, in this process, by displaying a flow screen linked to the approval request screen for the work content, it is possible to support the response operator O in taking measures against the alarm.

(5-7. Effect 7)
Seventh, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the alarm management device 10 displays, in an alarm shelving flow screen, a screen on which approval of the shelving operation for the alarm can be requested on the upper operator terminal 30 of the upper operator M managing the monitored device in which the alarm has occurred. Therefore, in this process, by displaying a flow screen linked to the shelving approval request screen, it is possible to support the corresponding operator O in taking measures against the alarm.

(5-8. Effect 8)
Eighth, in the process according to the embodiment described above, the alarm is an alarm indicating an abnormality in the plant or a monitored device in a plant control system that controls the plant. Therefore, in this process, it is possible to support the implementation of measures against the alarm implemented by the corresponding operator O in the plant control system.

〔system〕
The information including the processing procedures, control procedures, specific names, various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be changed arbitrarily unless otherwise specified.

In addition, each component of each device shown in the figure is a functional concept, and does not necessarily have to be physically configured as shown in the figure. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure. In other words, all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

Furthermore, each processing function performed by each device may be realized, in whole or in part, by a CPU and a program analyzed and executed by the CPU, or may be realized as hardware using wired logic.

[Hardware]
Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the alarm management device 10, which is an alarm management device, will be described. Note that other devices may also have a similar hardware configuration. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the alarm management device 10 has a communication device 10a, a storage 10b, a memory 10c, and a processor 10d. In addition, each unit shown in FIG. 10 is connected to each other by a bus or the like.

The communication device 10a is a network interface card or the like, and communicates with other servers. The storage 10b stores programs and databases that operate the functions shown in FIG. 3.

The processor 10d reads out a program that executes the same processes as the processing units shown in FIG. 3 from the storage 10b etc. and expands it in the memory 10c, thereby operating a process that executes the functions described in FIG. 3 etc. For example, this process executes the same functions as the processing units possessed by the alarm management device 10. Specifically, the processor 10d reads out a program that has the same functions as the receiving unit 13a, the accepting unit 13b, the output unit 13c etc. from the storage 10b etc. Then, the processor 10d executes a process that executes the same processes as the receiving unit 13a, the accepting unit 13b, the output unit 13c etc.

In this way, the alarm management device 10 operates as a device that executes various processing methods by reading and executing programs. The alarm management device 10 can also realize functions similar to those of the above-mentioned embodiments by reading the above programs from a recording medium using a media reading device and executing the read programs. Note that the programs in these other embodiments are not limited to being executed by the alarm management device 10. For example, the present invention can be similarly applied to cases where other computers or servers execute programs, or where these work together to execute programs.

This program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. In addition, this program can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), and can be executed by being read from the recording medium by a computer.

〔others〕
Some examples of combinations of the disclosed technical features are set out below.

(1) An alarm management device including: a memory unit that stores operation procedures for each countermeasure that can be implemented for an alarm of a monitored device; a transmission unit that transmits the alarm of the monitored device; a reception unit that receives the countermeasure for the alarm selected by a user; and an output unit that retrieves from the memory unit the operation procedures linked to the countermeasure selected by the user and outputs the operation procedures to the user.

(2) The alarm management device according to (1), wherein the storage unit stores the operation procedures including an immediate response flow screen showing an operation procedure for an immediate response operation to the alarm, and a shelving flow screen showing an operation procedure for a shelving operation to be performed after suspending a response to the alarm for a certain period of time and then performing the shelving operation after the certain period of time has elapsed, and the output unit retrieves from the storage unit the immediate response flow screen or the shelving flow screen linked to the measure selected by the user, and displays it on the user terminal of the user.

(3) The alarm management device according to (2), wherein the output unit displays a response manual indicating the work to be performed by the user in response to the alarm on the immediate response flow screen or the shelving flow screen in accordance with the user's selection.

(4) The alarm management device according to (2) or (3), wherein the immediate response flow screen has an input screen for inputting the work content of the countermeasure implemented by the first user, and when the immediate response operation for the same alarm is accepted from a second user after the immediate response operation for the alarm is accepted from the first user, the output unit displays the immediate response flow screen associated with the immediate response operation, the progress of the immediate response operation, and the work content entered by the first user into the input screen of the immediate response flow screen.

(5) The alarm management device according to any one of (2) to (4), wherein the shelving flow screen has an input screen for inputting a reason or purpose for which a first user has selected the shelving operation for the alarm, and when the shelving operation for the same alarm is accepted from a second user after the shelving operation for the alarm is accepted from the first user, the output unit displays the shelving flow screen associated with the shelving operation, a progress status of the shelving operation, and the reason or purpose entered by the first user in the input screen of the shelving flow screen.

(6) The alarm management device according to any one of (2) to (5), wherein the output unit displays, on the immediate response flow screen, a screen on which the user can request approval of the work to be performed by the user in response to the alarm, on an administrator terminal of an administrator who manages the monitored device in which the alarm occurred.

(7) The alarm management device according to any one of (2) to (6), wherein the output unit displays, on the shelving flow screen, a screen on which approval of the shelving operation for the alarm can be requested on an administrator terminal of an administrator who manages the monitored device in which the alarm occurred.

(8) The alarm management device according to any one of (1) to (7), wherein the alarm is an alarm indicating an abnormality in the plant or the monitored equipment in a plant control system that controls the plant.

(9) An alarm management method in which a computer executes a process by storing operation procedures for each countermeasure that can be implemented in response to an alarm of a monitored device, transmitting the alarm of the monitored device, accepting the countermeasure selected by a user in response to the alarm, obtaining the operation procedures linked to the countermeasure selected by the user, and outputting the operation procedures to the user.

(10) An alarm management program that causes a computer to execute a process that retains operational procedures for each countermeasure that can be implemented in response to an alarm of a monitored device, transmits an alarm of the monitored device, accepts the countermeasure selected by a user in response to the alarm, obtains the operational procedures linked to the countermeasure selected by the user, and outputs the operational procedures to the user.

REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 10 Alarm management device 11 Communication unit 12 Storage unit 12a Alarm response flow screen storage unit 12b Alarm shelving flow screen storage unit 13 Control unit 13a Receiving unit 13b Accepting unit 13c Output unit 20 Handling operator terminal 21 Input/output unit 22 Transmitting/receiving unit 23 Communication unit 30 Upper operator terminal 31 Input/output unit 32 Transmitting/receiving unit 33 Communication unit 40 Shared operator terminal 41 Input/output unit 42 Transmitting/receiving unit 43 Communication unit 100 Alarm management system

Claims (10)

a storage unit that stores an operation procedure for each countermeasure that can be implemented in response to an alarm of a monitored device;
A transmitter for transmitting an alarm of the monitored device;
a reception unit that receives the countermeasure for the alarm selected by a user;
an output unit that acquires from the storage unit the operation procedure associated with the measure selected by the user and outputs the operation procedure to the user;
An alarm management device comprising: The storage unit is
storing the operation procedures including an immediate response flow screen showing an operation procedure of an immediate response operation for immediately responding to the alarm, and a shelving flow screen showing an operation procedure of a shelving operation for suspending a response to the alarm for a certain period of time and responding to the alarm after the certain period of time has elapsed;
The output unit is
acquiring from the storage unit the immediate response flow screen or the shelving flow screen associated with the measure selected by the user, and displaying the immediate response flow screen or the shelving flow screen on the user terminal of the user;
The alarm management device of claim 1 . The output unit is
displaying a response manual indicating the content of the work to be performed by the user in response to the alarm on the immediate response flow screen or the shelving flow screen in response to a selection made by the user;
The alarm management device according to claim 2 . the immediate response flow screen has an input screen for inputting the work content of the countermeasure implemented by the first user,
The output unit is
when the immediate response operation for the alarm is accepted from the first user and then the immediate response operation for the same alarm is accepted from a second user, the immediate response flow screen associated with the immediate response operation, a progress status of the immediate response operation, and the work content input by the first user to the input screen of the immediate response flow screen are displayed.
The alarm management device according to claim 2 . the shelving flow screen has an input screen for inputting a reason or purpose for which the first user has selected the shelving operation in response to the alarm,
The output unit is
when the shelving operation for the alarm is accepted from a second user after the shelving operation for the same alarm is accepted from the first user, displaying the shelving flow screen associated with the shelving operation, a progress status of the shelving operation, and the reason or the purpose entered by the first user in the input screen of the shelving flow screen.
The alarm management device according to claim 2 . The output unit is
a screen on which the user can request approval of the work content to be performed by the user in response to the alarm is displayed on an administrator terminal of an administrator who manages the monitored device in which the alarm has occurred, in the immediate response flow screen;
The alarm management device according to claim 2 . The output unit is
a screen on which approval of the shelving operation for the alarm can be requested is displayed on an administrator terminal of an administrator who manages the monitoring target device in which the alarm has occurred, in the shelving flow screen;
The alarm management device according to claim 2 . The alarm is an alarm indicating an abnormality in the plant or the monitored device in a plant control system that controls a plant.
The alarm management device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. The computer
Maintain operational procedures for each possible countermeasure for alarms on monitored equipment,
Transmitting an alarm for the monitored device;
accepting the countermeasure for the alarm selected by a user;
acquiring the operation procedure associated with the measure selected by the user, and outputting the operation procedure to the user;
An alarm management method that performs an action. On the computer,
Maintain operational procedures for each possible countermeasure for alarms on monitored equipment,
Transmitting an alarm for the monitored device;
accepting the countermeasure for the alarm selected by a user;
acquiring the operation procedure associated with the measure selected by the user, and outputting the operation procedure to the user;
An alarm management program that performs the processing.

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