Processing apparatus, program, processing method, and system

Abstract

The present invention provides a processing device, program, processing method, and system that enable the sharing of an electronic blackboard with a schematic diagram between devices. [Solution] A first terminal device 20A as a processing device comprises: a first processing unit that generates a schematic diagram, which is an image of a part of a drawing, and schematic diagram identification information linked to the schematic diagram, based on a capture area specified by the user of the processing device in a drawing displayed on a display unit; a second processing unit that acquires electronic blackboard setting information, which is information input by an input unit and has the schematic diagram identification information; and a third processing unit that transmits the schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information to an electronic blackboard management device 10 as the first device.

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present invention relates to a processing device, a program, a processing method, and a system. [[Background Art]]

[0002] Drawings required for carrying out building construction work are managed as electronic data (drawing files). In relation to this, there exists, for example, the technology described in Patent Document 1.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes the following matters regarding a mobile terminal used at a construction site. When an operator takes a photograph of a construction site, information related to construction is displayed overlaid on the captured image by means of an electronic blackboard, and the captured image and the electronic blackboard image are saved as a multi-layer image. [[Prior Art Documents]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0004] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2016-171454 [[Summary of the Invention]] [[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0005] Conventional electronic blackboards are described as being capable of handling text data. However, it is not described in conventional electronic blackboards that they can handle images (schematic diagrams, also referred to as thumbnail diagrams) obtained by capturing a part of a drawing (for example, a design drawing, etc.). Therefore, in the prior art, there was a problem that an electronic blackboard with a schematic diagram cannot be created and shared with other terminals at construction / construction sites and the like.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problem, and provides a processing device, a program, a processing method, and a system that can share an electronic blackboard with a schematic diagram between devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the aforementioned problems, the processing apparatus according to the present invention comprises: a first processing unit that generates a schematic diagram, which is an image of a part of a drawing, and schematic diagram identification information linked to the schematic diagram, based on a capture area specified by the user of the processing apparatus in a drawing displayed on a display unit; a second processing unit that acquires electronic blackboard setting information, which is information input by an input unit and has the schematic diagram identification information; and a third processing unit that transmits the schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information to the first device.

[0008] Furthermore, the program according to the present invention is characterized in that the computer functions as a first processing unit that generates a schematic diagram, which is an image of a part of a drawing, and schematic diagram identification information linked to the schematic diagram, based on a capture area specified by the user of the computer in a drawing displayed on a display unit; a second processing unit that acquires electronic blackboard setting information, which is information input by an input unit and has the schematic diagram identification information; and a third processing unit that transmits the schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information to a first device.

[0009] Furthermore, the processing method according to the present invention is a processing method for a processing device, characterized in that the processing device performs: a first processing step of generating a schematic diagram, which is an image capturing a part of a drawing based on a capture area specified by the user of the processing device in a drawing displayed on a display unit, and schematic diagram identification information linked to the schematic diagram; a second processing step of acquiring electronic blackboard setting information, which is information input by an input unit and has the schematic diagram identification information; and a third processing step of transmitting the schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information to the first device.

[0010] Furthermore, the system according to the present invention is characterized by comprising the above-described processing device and the first device which transfers the schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information acquired from the processing device to another processing device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present invention, an electronic blackboard with a schematic diagram can be shared between devices. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is an overall configuration diagram of a management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This image illustrates the relationship between drawings, schematics, and electronic blackboards. [Figure 3] This is a functional configuration diagram of an electronic blackboard management device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] This is a functional configuration diagram of a terminal device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] This is an image of the electronic blackboard settings and a schematic diagram. [Figure 6] This figure shows the operation flow of the management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] This is an overall configuration diagram of a management system according to a modified example of the present invention. [Figure 8] This figure shows the operation flow of a management system according to a modified version of the present invention. [Figure 9] This is an example of a schematic diagram (raster data) generated by the first terminal device. [Figure 10] This is an illustration of the text data extraction process, where (a) is the original diagram and (b) is the extracted text data. [Figure 11] This image illustrates the process of converting a linear image to vector data. (a) is a schematic diagram of the original data, and (b) is the vector data of the converted linear image. [Figure 12] This image illustrates the process of converting non-linear geometric images into vector data. (a) is the original schematic diagram, and (b) is the converted vector data of the non-linear geometric image. [Figure 13] This is an illustration of the process of placing information into each layer. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0013] [Description Relating to the Premise of the Present Invention] The present invention relates to a method for sharing digitized drawings via mobile terminals at sites where drawings are handled in various companies including the construction industry and the facility construction industry.

[0014] Hereinafter, modes for carrying out the present invention will be described in detail with appropriate reference to the drawings. Each drawing is only schematically illustrated to an extent that allows sufficient understanding of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention is not limited only to the illustrated examples. In addition, in each embodiment, descriptions of configurations not directly related to the present invention or well-known configurations may be omitted. In each drawing, common or similar components are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0015] <<Configuration of Management System According to Embodiment>> With reference to FIG. 1, the configuration of a management system 1 according to an embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram of the management system 1 according to the embodiment. The management system 1 is a system for managing electronic blackboards to be displayed superimposed on photographs (digital images) taken at construction sites.

[0016] Electronic blackboards have the same usage as physical blackboards used for construction photographs, and are digitally created blackboards that are installed when photographing construction photographs. In other words, along with the digitization of construction photographs, electronic blackboards are obtained by digitizing small blackboards filled with work content related to construction and engineering work. Furthermore, when users such as workers and inspectors photograph a target space such as a construction site or engineering work site, an electronic blackboard is information that is photographed (combined) together with the captured image of the target space. When using an electronic blackboard, the requirement to photograph the electronic blackboard together with the captured image is the same as when using a physical blackboard. When a physical blackboard is used, it is necessary to write necessary information on the blackboard before photographing, and to include the subject and the blackboard within the angle of view of the camera to photograph them together.

[0017] The actual blackboards used for construction photographs have information about the construction, information about the photography, and information about the subjects in the photographs written on them, and the same is true for the electronic blackboard according to this embodiment. In other words, the electronic blackboard can have information about the construction, information about the photography, and information about the subjects in the photographs. Furthermore, the electronic blackboard according to this embodiment can have schematic diagrams (it is possible to include schematic diagrams on the electronic blackboard). A schematic diagram is an image generated by capturing a part of a drawing. Figure 2 shows the relationship between the drawing, the schematic diagram, and the electronic blackboard. Figure 2 is an image showing the relationship between the drawing, the schematic diagram, and the electronic blackboard.

[0018] Furthermore, Management System 1 may be part of a system that manages construction photographs and electronic blackboards and displays construction photographs with electronic blackboards overlaid upon request from those involved in the construction work. Also, Management System 1 may be part of a system that manages at least one of the following: drawings (drawings), specifications (including specifications with drawings) that are necessary for carrying out construction work on a building, documents that explain the contents and procedures necessary for carrying out construction work on a building, and photographs related to construction work, and displays drawings, documents, and photographs upon request from those involved in the construction work.

[0019] The management system 1 shown in Figure 1 comprises an electronic blackboard management device 10 and a plurality of terminal devices 20. The electronic blackboard management device 10 and the plurality of terminal devices 20 are connected via a communication network NW such as the Internet, enabling data communication. The terminal devices 20 enable the sharing of the electronic blackboard in places such as construction sites, offices, contractors, and clients' homes. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the electronic blackboard is rectangular in shape, but the shape of the electronic blackboard may be other shapes. The management system 1 is mainly used by construction companies, building companies, etc. that plan and carry out construction work. Note that the configuration of the management system 1 shown in Figure 1 is merely an example.

[0020] The electronic blackboard management device 10 is an example of the "first device," and the examples of the "first device" are not limited to the electronic blackboard management device 10. Furthermore, terminal device 20 is an example of a "processing device," and the example of a "processing device" is not limited to terminal device 20. Furthermore, terminal device 20 is an example of a "computer," and the term "computer" is not limited to terminal device 20.

[0021] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the electronic blackboard management device 10. The electronic blackboard management device 10 comprises a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, RAM (Random Access Memory) 12, an input unit 13, a display unit 14, a communication unit 15, and a storage unit 16, and each unit is connected via a bus 17.

[0022] The CPU 11 comprehensively controls the processing operations of each part of the electronic blackboard management device 10. The CPU 11 reads various programs stored in the memory unit 16, loads them into the RAM 12, and performs various processes in cooperation with those programs.

[0023] RAM12 is volatile memory, and it temporarily stores various programs that are being executed, as well as data related to those programs.

[0024] The input unit 13 includes a keyboard equipped with character input keys, number input keys, various function keys, etc., and a pointing device such as a mouse. The input unit 13 outputs operation signals input by the user through key operations on the keyboard or mouse operations to the CPU 11.

[0025] The display unit 14 is composed of an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or the like. The display unit 14 displays information on the screen according to display control signals from the CPU 11.

[0026] The communication unit 15 is comprised of a network interface and the like. The communication unit 15 transmits and receives data with connected external devices via the communication network NW.

[0027] The storage unit 16 is composed of an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and non-volatile memory, etc. The storage unit 16 stores information in a read-and-write manner. The storage unit 16 stores the electronic blackboard processing program P1, electronic blackboard setting information T1, and schematic diagram U1.

[0028] The electronic blackboard processing program P1 is an application program on the management device side (server side) and performs processing related to the electronic blackboard. The electronic blackboard setting information T1 contains information about the electronic blackboard, including information for overlaying (setting up) the electronic blackboard onto the photograph. Additionally, the electronic blackboard setting information T1 includes information about the schematic diagram U1. Schematic diagram U1 is an image generated by capturing a portion of the drawing (see Figure 2).

[0029] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the terminal device 20. The terminal device 20 comprises a CPU 21, RAM 22, input unit 23, display unit 24, communication unit 25, storage unit 26, and camera 27, with each unit connected via a bus 28. The terminal device 20 is a device with a display function and can be composed of a general tablet-type information terminal (tablet terminal) or a PC (Personal Computer). Here, when the terminal device 20 is composed of a PC, examples of PCs include a notebook PC equipped with a display device and a desktop PC connected to a display device.

[0030] The CPU 21 comprehensively controls the processing operations of each part of the terminal device 20. The CPU 21 reads various programs stored in the memory unit 26, loads them into the RAM 22, and performs various processes in cooperation with those programs. The functions implemented by CPU21 are examples of "first processing unit," "second processing unit," "third processing unit," and "fourth processing unit," and these examples of "first processing unit," "second processing unit," "third processing unit," and "fourth processing unit" are not limited to the functions implemented by CPU21.

[0031] RAM22 is volatile memory, where various programs being executed and data related to those programs are temporarily stored.

[0032] The input unit 23 includes a touch panel provided on the display screen of the display unit 24. The input unit 23 detects the position of touch operations performed by the user's finger or a dedicated pen, and outputs an operation signal corresponding to that position to the CPU 21. The input unit 23 includes a keyboard equipped with character input keys, number input keys, various function keys, etc., and a pointing device such as a mouse. The input unit 23 may also output operation signals input by the user through key operations on the keyboard or mouse operations to the CPU 21.

[0033] The display unit 24 is composed of an LCD or the like. The display unit 24 displays information on the screen according to the display control signals from the CPU 21.

[0034] The communication unit 25 is comprised of a network interface and the like. The communication unit 25 transmits and receives data with connected external devices via the communication network NW.

[0035] The storage unit 26 is composed of an HDD, non-volatile memory, etc. The storage unit 26 stores information in a read-and-write manner. The storage unit 26 stores the electronic blackboard processing program P2, electronic blackboard setting information T2, and schematic diagram U2.

[0036] The electronic blackboard processing program P2 is an application program on the terminal device side (client side) and performs processing related to the electronic blackboard. Electronic blackboard setting information T2 contains information about the electronic blackboard, including information for overlaying (setting up) the electronic blackboard on the photograph. Additionally, electronic blackboard setting information T2 includes information about the schematic diagram U2. Schematic diagram U2 is an image generated by capturing a portion of the drawing (see Figure 2).

[0037] Figure 5 shows an image of the electronic blackboard settings and schematic diagram. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the electronic blackboard settings and schematic diagram are managed for each project. A project is an activity defined for each purpose and objective, and is defined for each unit, such as a construction site or department.

[0038] Figure 5 illustrates project "a," which is associated with electronic blackboard configuration information and one or more diagrams. The electronic blackboard configuration information includes information about one or more electronic blackboards. The correspondence between electronic blackboards and diagrams is either one diagram registered for one electronic blackboard (i.e., a "one-to-one" relationship between electronic blackboards and diagrams), or multiple diagrams registered for one electronic blackboard (i.e., a "one-to-many" relationship between electronic blackboards and diagrams). As a result, a single project generally has multiple diagrams.

[0039] In this embodiment, as shown in Figure 5, the electronic blackboard setting information contains information for multiple electronic blackboards (in Figure 5, electronic blackboard "A" and electronic blackboard "B" are shown as examples). For each electronic blackboard, the electronic blackboard setting information includes the aspect ratio, color, dividing lines, size, coordinates, items, blackboard identification name, and ID.

[0040] "Aspect ratio" is the ratio of the longer side to the shorter side of an electronic blackboard. "Color" refers to information about the color of the electronic blackboard. "Separating lines" refer to information about the border lines drawn on the electronic blackboard. "Size" refers to information about the size of the electronic blackboard. The "coordinates" refer to the coordinates on the photograph in which the electronic blackboard is positioned. The "coordinates" include information for the X-axis and Y-axis.

[0041] "Items" are the contents to be written on the electronic blackboard. "Items" include, for example, the project name, work type, measurement point, date of photography, contractor, and other information such as the diagram identifier. "Other" is free-form writing, such as points of caution noticed by on-site workers. The diagram identifier (diagram identification information) is information used to identify the diagram (for example, the data name and information about where the diagram is stored), and the diagram identifier can uniquely identify the diagram. The "blackboard identification name" is the name of the blackboard itself. Here, the "blackboard identification name" is the name used to distinguish between electronic blackboard "A", electronic blackboard "B", etc. "ID" is a number assigned each time a blackboard is created.

[0042] ≪Operation of the Management System According to the Embodiment≫ Referring to Figure 6 (and Figures 1 to 5 as appropriate), the operation flow of the management system 1 according to this embodiment will be explained. Figure 6 is a diagram showing the operation flow of the management system 1 according to this embodiment. Here, we assume a case where the electronic blackboard generated by the first terminal device 20A is shared with the second terminal device 20B. In the explanation of Figure 6, it is assumed that the electronic blackboard settings information shown in Figure 5 is used. It is assumed that the users using the first terminal device 20A and the users using the second terminal device 20B are users involved in project "a". The electronic blackboard setting information shared between the first terminal device 20A and the second terminal device 20B is assumed to be the information for electronic blackboard "A".

[0043] <Transfer from the first terminal device 20A to the electronic blackboard management device 10> <<Processing Step: S1>> The user displays the original drawing on the display unit 24 of the first terminal device 20A and operates the input unit 23 to specify a capture area on the display unit 24 screen. The CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the first terminal device 20A generates an image of the capture area (an image of a part of the drawing) as a schematic diagram and displays it on the display unit 24 screen, and also generates a schematic diagram identifier that is unique within the management system 1. The CPU 21 associates (links) the generated schematic diagram and schematic diagram identifier and saves them in the storage unit 26.

[0044] <<Processing step: S2>> The user inputs information related to the electronic blackboard in project "a" via the input unit 23 of the first terminal device 20A, and the CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the first terminal device 20A generates electronic blackboard setting information for project "a" based on the input information. Specifically, the following process is performed in the first terminal device 20A. CPU21 obtains project identification information (for example, project "a") based on user input. If there is only one piece of project identification information (for example, only project "a"), CPU21 sets project "a" as the project identification information. CPU21 obtains the electronic blackboard settings information for project "a" based on user input, as follows: The CPU21 acquires information such as the aspect ratio, color, dividing lines, size, coordinates, items (project name, work type name, measurement point, shooting date, contractor, other, schematic identifier), blackboard identification name, and ID of the electronic blackboard based on user input, and generates it as the electronic blackboard setting "A" in the electronic blackboard setting information of project "a". Here, the schematic identifier in processing step S2 is assumed to be the same identifier as the schematic identifier generated in processing step S1. The CPU 21 stores information such as aspect ratio, color, dividing lines, size, coordinates, items (construction name, work type name, measurement point, shooting date, contractor, other, schematic identifier), blackboard identification name, and ID from the generated (acquired) project "a" in the storage unit 26. The CPU 21 associates (links) the project identification information (project "a") generated (acquired) in processing step S2, the electronic blackboard setting information (information for electronic blackboard "A") that identifies the project, and the schematic diagram generated in processing step S1, and stores them in the storage unit 26. Here, the diagram identifier stored in the storage unit 26 in association with (linked to) the diagram generated in processing step S1 has the same identifier as the diagram identifier of the item in the electronic blackboard setting information (information for electronic blackboard "A") of the project identification information (project "a") generated (acquired) in processing step S2.

[0045] <<Processing step: S3>> The CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the first terminal device 20A performs synchronization processing with the electronic blackboard management device 10. Specifically, the CPU 21 transmits to the electronic blackboard management device 10, via the communication unit 25, the project identification information (project "a") generated (acquired) in processing step S2, the electronic blackboard setting information (information for electronic blackboard "A") that identifies the project, and the schematic diagram generated in processing step S1, as associated (linked) information.

[0046] <<Processing step: S4>> The CPU 11 (electronic blackboard processing program P1) of the electronic blackboard management device 10 acquires project identification information (project "a"), electronic blackboard setting information (information for electronic blackboard "A"), and a schematic diagram from the first terminal device 20A via the communication unit 15, as associated (linked) information. The CPU 11 then stores the acquired project identification information (project "a"), electronic blackboard setting information (information for electronic blackboard "A"), and schematic diagram as associated (linked) information in the storage unit 16.

[0047] <Transfer from electronic blackboard management device 10 to second terminal device 20B> <<Processing step: S5>> The CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the second terminal device 20B performs synchronization processing with the electronic blackboard management device 10. Specifically, the CPU 21 sends request information to the electronic blackboard management device 10 via the communication unit 25, requesting the transfer of project identification information, electronic blackboard setting information for the project identification information, and a schematic diagram. The timing at which the second terminal device 20B performs synchronization processing with the electronic blackboard management device 10 (the timing at which it sends the request information to the electronic blackboard management device 10) is, for example, a predetermined time or a predetermined time interval.

[0048] For example, the request information includes information identifying a project (project "a"), and the second terminal device 20B requests the transfer of electronic blackboard configuration information and a schematic diagram related to that project. Here, the schematic diagram in the request information is the schematic diagram associated with (linked to) the schematic diagram identifier of the item in the electronic blackboard configuration information of the information identifying the project (project "a"). Furthermore, if the user operating the second terminal device 20B knows the information identifying the electronic blackboard generated (acquired) in processing step S2 (for example, the "blackboard identification name" in the information for electronic blackboard "A") via telephone, email, chat, etc., the request information may include information identifying the project (project "a") and information identifying the electronic blackboard (blackboard identification name corresponding to electronic blackboard "A"). Here, the request information is input by the user via the input unit 23 of the second terminal device 20B.

[0049] Furthermore, the second terminal device 20B may receive and display a list of information identifying electronic blackboards (for example, "blackboard identification name") from the electronic blackboard management device 10, and request the transfer of electronic blackboard setting information and a schematic diagram (blackboard setting information (information for electronic blackboard "A") and the schematic diagram linked to the schematic identifier of the item in the blackboard setting information) for the project identified by the user from the list (project "a"). Here, the selection from the list by the user is made by the user via the input unit 23 of the second terminal device 20B. Furthermore, the request information may include information about the time when the second terminal device 20B last performed synchronization processing, and may request the transfer of electronic blackboard setting information (information for electronic blackboard "A") and a schematic diagram (a schematic diagram linked to the schematic diagram identifier of an item in the electronic blackboard setting information (information for electronic blackboard "A")) for a project (project "A") that was acquired by the electronic blackboard management device 10 after that time.

[0050] <<Processing step: S6>> The CPU 11 (electronic blackboard processing program P1) of the electronic blackboard management device 10 obtains request information from the second terminal device 20B via the communication unit 15. Based on the obtained request information, the CPU 11 transfers the information identifying the relevant project (project "a"), the electronic blackboard setting information for the information identifying the project, and the schematic diagram to the second terminal device 20B via the communication unit 15 as associated (linked) information.

[0051] <<Processing step: S7>> The CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the second terminal device 20B acquires, via the communication unit 25, information identifying the project corresponding to the request information of processing step S5 (project "a"), electronic blackboard setting information for the information identifying the project, and a schematic diagram from the electronic blackboard management device 10 as associated (linked) information. The CPU 21 stores the acquired information identifying the project (project "a"), the electronic blackboard setting information for the information identifying the project, and the schematic diagram as associated (linked) information in the storage unit 26.

[0052] Processing step: S8 The CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the second terminal device 20B generates an electronic blackboard with a diagram based on the information acquired in processing step S7, which identifies the project corresponding to the request information in processing step S5 (project "a"), and the electronic blackboard setting information and diagram of the information identifying the project. For example, the second terminal device 20B receives from the electronic blackboard management device 10 a list of information consisting of electronic blackboard setting information for project identification information (project "a") and diagrams associated with (linked to) the diagram identifiers of the items in the electronic blackboard setting information. The second terminal device 20B displays the received list information on the display unit 24 according to the display control signal from the CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2). The list information displayed on the display unit 24 of the second terminal device 20B is associated with project identification information (project "a"), electronic blackboard setting information for the project identification information (information for electronic blackboard "A"), and a schematic diagram (a schematic diagram linked to the schematic identifier of the item in the electronic blackboard setting information (information for electronic blackboard "A")). ) This information is included. This completes the sharing of the electronic blackboard with a schematic diagram generated by the first terminal device 20A to the second terminal device 20B.

[0053] As described above, in the management system 1 according to this embodiment, information for identifying image information of the schematic diagrams to be displayed on the electronic blackboard (schematic diagram identifier) ​​is added to the electronic blackboard setting information, which is generated in text format by the terminal device 20. Then, by transferring project identification information (project "a"), electronic blackboard setting information for the project identification information (information for electronic blackboard "A"), and the schematic diagram (the schematic diagram linked to the schematic diagram identifier of the item in the electronic blackboard setting information (information for electronic blackboard "A"))) to the electronic blackboard management device 10 and each terminal device 20 that share information, it becomes possible to associate the project identification information with the electronic blackboard setting information for the project identification information and the schematic diagram, and each terminal device 20 can share an electronic blackboard with a schematic diagram.

[0054] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto and can be implemented without changing the spirit of the claims. An example of a modification is shown below.

[0055] [Differentiation] <Configuration of the management system related to the modification> Referring to Figure 7, the configuration of the modified management system 101 will be explained. Figure 7 shows the system configuration of the modified management system 101. The management system 101 is a system for managing electronic blackboards that are displayed overlaid on photographs (digital images) taken at construction sites.

[0056] The management system 101 shown in Figure 7 comprises an electronic blackboard management device 10, a plurality of terminal devices 20, and a schematic diagram conversion device 30. The electronic blackboard management device 10, the plurality of terminal devices 20, and the schematic diagram conversion device 30 are connected via a communication network NW such as the Internet, enabling data communication. In the modified management system 101, the schematic diagram conversion device 30 is added compared to the management system 1 according to the embodiment (see Figure 1). The following will mainly describe the changes from the embodiment.

[0057] The schematic diagram conversion device 30 converts a schematic diagram (raster data) composed of a pixel grid into a schematic diagram (vector data) using mathematical formulas. The schematic diagram conversion device 30 is, for example, a server and includes a CPU, RAM, input unit, display unit, communication unit, storage unit, etc.

[0058] ≪Operation of the control system related to the modification≫ Referring to Figure 8 (and Figures 1 to 7 as appropriate), the operation flow of the modified management system 101 will be explained. Figure 8 is a diagram showing the operation flow of the modified management system 101. Here, we assume that the electronic blackboard generated by the first terminal device 20A is shared with the second terminal device 20B.

[0059] <Transfer from the first terminal device 20A to the electronic blackboard management device 10> Processing steps: S1~S2 The contents of processing steps S1 to S2 are the same as in the embodiment. That is, the CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the first terminal device 20A generates an image of the capture area (an image of a part of the drawing) as a schematic diagram, and also generates a schematic diagram identifier that is unique within the management system 1. In addition, the user inputs information related to the electronic blackboard via the input unit 23 of the first terminal device 20A, and the CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the first terminal device 20A generates electronic blackboard setting information based on the input information.

[0060] <Processing step: S11> The CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the first terminal device 20A requests the diagram conversion device 30 to convert the diagram. For example, the first terminal device 20A sends the diagram (raster data) generated in processing step S1 to the diagram conversion device 30 along with the request to convert it to vector data, and receives the diagram (vector data) from the diagram conversion device 30 in response.

[0061] Figure 9 is an example of a schematic diagram (raster data) generated by the first terminal device 20A. The schematic diagram 1001 shown in Figure 9 consists of a character image 1002 and graphic images 1003 to 1016. Graphic images 1003 to 1016 consist of graphic images 1003 to 1013 as linear images and graphic images 1014 to 1016 other than linear images. The first terminal device 20A transmits, for example, the schematic diagram 1001 shown in Figure 9 to the schematic diagram conversion device 30.

[0062] Text image 1002 is, for example, an image related to dimensions in a design drawing, and in Figure 9, it is an image related to the dimension "1000mm". Figures 1003 to 1009 are, for example, images related to leader lines in design drawings, and in Figure 9, an image related to a leader line indicating a dimension range of "1000 mm". Graphic images 1010-1016 are images relating to an object (for example, a product) in a design drawing, and consist of a rectangular frame and three shapes. Graphic image 1014 is an image relating to a semi-ellipse, which is half the size of an ellipse. Graphic image 1015 is an image relating to a circle. Graphic image 1016 is an image relating to a shape filled with a predetermined color, pattern, hatching, etc.

[0063] <Processing step: S21> The CPU of the diagram conversion device 30 uses OCR (Optical Character Recognition / Reader) functionality to extract character images from the diagram, and then extracts character data from the extracted character images. When extracting character data, the CPU extracts character data that is equal to or better than a predetermined character recognition result. Also, when extracting character data (or character images), the CPU stores the positional information (x-axis and y-axis information) of the diagram from which the character image was extracted, linking it to the extracted character data.

[0064] Processing step S21 yields character data 2001 (see Figure 10(b)) from the schematic diagram 1001 (see Figure 10(a)). Figure 10 shows an image of the character data extraction process (processing step S21), where (a) is the schematic diagram that serves as the source data, and (b) is the extracted character data. The characters 2002 contained in the character data 2001 correspond to the original character image 1002.

[0065] <Processing step: S22> The CPU of the schematic diagram conversion device 30 extracts a line image that is identified as a single object from the image obtained by removing the area of ​​the character image extracted in processing step S21 from the schematic diagram, and further converts the extracted line image (raster data) into vector data. Here, when extracting line images, line images that meet or exceed a predetermined line image recognition result are extracted as line images. For example, the "Hough transform" is used to extract line images. Also, when extracting line images, the position information (x-axis and y-axis information) in the schematic diagram from which the line image was extracted is stored in association with the extracted line image.

[0066] Processing step S22 yields vector data 3001 of the linear image (see Figure 11(b)) from the schematic diagram 1001 (see Figure 11(a)). Figure 11 shows an image of the conversion process of linear images to vector data (processing step S22), where (a) is the schematic diagram that serves as the original data, and (b) is the converted vector data of the linear image. The linear lines 3003 to 3013 included in the vector data 3001 of the linear image correspond to the original geometric images 1003 to 1013.

[0067] <Processing step: S23> The CPU of the schematic diagram conversion device 30 extracts geometric images other than linear images that can be identified as a single object from the image obtained by removing the areas of character images extracted in processing step S21 and the areas of linear images extracted in processing step S22 from the schematic diagram, and further converts the extracted geometric images other than linear images (raster data) into vector data. In extracting geometric images other than linear images, for example, contour extraction processing is used to extract geometric images other than linear images. Also, when extracting geometric images other than linear images, the position information (x-axis and y-axis information) in the schematic diagram from which the geometric images other than linear images were extracted is stored in association with the extracted geometric images other than linear images.

[0068] Processing step S23 yields vector data 4001 of non-linear graphic images (see Figure 12(b)) from the schematic diagram 1001 (see Figure 12(a)). Figure 12 shows an image of the conversion process (processing step S23) of non-linear graphic images to vector data, where (a) is the original schematic diagram and (b) is the converted non-linear graphic image vector data. The shapes 4014 to 4016 included in the non-linear graphic image vector data 4001 correspond to the original graphic images 1014 to 1016.

[0069] Processing step: S24 The CPU of the diagram conversion device 30 generates a new diagram 5001 (see Figure 13) by arranging the character data and vector data of graphic images obtained in processing steps S21 to S23 on their respective layers. The new diagram 5001 (see Figure 13) is obtained by converting the original raster data diagram 1001 into vector data. The diagram conversion device 30 transmits the vector data diagram 5001 to the first terminal device 20A via the communication unit.

[0070] Figure 13 shows an image of the information placement process for each layer (processing step S24). For example, the CPU of the diagram conversion device 30 places the character data 2001 extracted in processing step S21 onto the first layer of the new diagram 5001 based on the position information from which the character image was extracted. Furthermore, the CPU of the schematic conversion device 30 places the vector data 3001 of the line image extracted in processing step S22 onto the second layer of the new schematic diagram 5001 based on the position information from which the line image was extracted. Furthermore, the CPU of the schematic conversion device 30 places the vector data 4001 of the geometric images other than the linear images extracted in processing step S23 onto the third layer of the new schematic 5001 based on the positional information from which the geometric images other than the linear images were extracted.

[0071] Processing steps: S3~S4 The contents of processing steps S3 to S4 are the same as in the embodiment. That is, the CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the first terminal device 20A transmits to the electronic blackboard management device 10 via the communication unit 25 the project identification information generated (acquired) in processing step S2, the electronic blackboard setting information for the project identification information, and the schematic diagram of the vector data requested and acquired in processing step S11, as associated (linked) information. The CPU 11 (electronic blackboard processing program P1) of the electronic blackboard management device 10 acquires from the first terminal device 20A via the communication unit 15 the project identification information generated (acquired) in processing step S2, the electronic blackboard setting information for the project identification information, and the schematic diagram of the vector data requested and acquired in processing step S11, as associated (linked) information.

[0072] <Transfer from electronic blackboard management device 10 to second terminal device 20B> Processing steps: S5~S8 The contents of processing steps S5 to S8 are the same as in the embodiment. Specifically, the CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the second terminal device 20B transmits request information via the communication unit 25 to the electronic blackboard management device 10 requesting the transfer of project identification information, electronic blackboard setting information for the project identification information, and a schematic diagram. Based on the acquired request information, the CPU 11 (electronic blackboard processing program P1) of the electronic blackboard management device 10 transfers the project identification information, the electronic blackboard setting information for the project identification information, and the schematic diagram to the second terminal device 20B via the communication unit 15 as associated (linked) information.

[0073] The CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the second terminal device 20B acquires, via the communication unit 25, information identifying the project corresponding to the request information of processing step S5, electronic blackboard setting information for the information identifying the project, and a schematic diagram from the electronic blackboard management device 10 as associated (linked) information. The CPU 21 (electronic blackboard processing program P2) of the second terminal device 20B generates an electronic blackboard with a schematic diagram based on the information acquired in processing step S7, which identifies the project corresponding to the request information of processing step S5, and the electronic blackboard setting information and schematic diagram for the information identifying the project. This completes the sharing of the electronic blackboard with a schematic diagram generated by the first terminal device 20A to the second terminal device 20B.

[0074] The management system 101 according to the modified example described above can also achieve the same effects as the embodiment. Furthermore, according to the modification management system 101, since the schematic diagram is generated as vector data, it is possible to suppress the deterioration of image quality due to enlargement and reduction. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0075] 1,101 Management System 10. Electronic blackboard management device 11 CPU 12 RAM 13 Input section 14 Display section 15 Communications Department 16 Memory section 17 Bus 20 Terminal devices 21 CPU 22 RAM 23 Input section 24 Display 25 Communications Department 26 Memory section 27 Cameras 28 buses 30. Diagram conversion device 1001 Schematic Diagram 1002 Character Images 1003-1016 Graphic Images 2001 Character Data 3001 Vector Data 4001 Vector Data 5001 Schematic Diagram

Claims

1. Processing apparatus, A first processing unit generates a schematic diagram, which is an image capturing a portion of a drawing, and schematic diagram identification information linked to the schematic diagram, based on a capture area specified by the user of the processing device, in a drawing displayed on the display unit. A second processing unit acquires electronic blackboard setting information, which is information input by the input unit and has the aforementioned schematic identification information. The system includes a third processing unit that transmits the above schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information to the first device. A processing apparatus characterized by the following:

2. The system further includes a fourth processing unit that transmits request information to the first device requesting the transfer of the schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information generated by another processing unit. The apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard settings information are managed on a project-by-project basis. The fourth processing unit transmits the request information which includes information identifying the project. The apparatus according to feature 2.

4. The system further includes a fifth processing unit that transmits a conversion request to a second device to convert the aforementioned schematic diagram into vector data. The third processing unit transmits the schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information, which have been converted into vector data, to the first device. The apparatus according to claim 1.

5. Computers, A first processing unit generates a schematic diagram, which is an image of a portion of a drawing, and schematic diagram identification information linked to the schematic diagram, based on a capture area specified by the user of the computer, in a drawing displayed on the display unit. The second processing unit acquires electronic blackboard setting information, which is information input by the input unit and has the aforementioned schematic identification information. The third processing unit functions to transmit the above schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information to the first device. A program characterized by the following:

6. A processing method for a processing device, The aforementioned processing apparatus is A first processing step involves generating a schematic diagram, which is an image capturing a portion of a drawing based on a capture area specified by the user of the processing device, and schematic diagram identification information linked to the schematic diagram, in a drawing displayed on the display unit. A second processing step involves acquiring electronic blackboard setting information, which is information input by the input unit and includes the aforementioned schematic identification information. A third processing step is performed, which involves transmitting the above schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information to the first device. A processing method characterized by the following.

7. The apparatus according to claim 1, The first device transfers the schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information acquired from the processing device to another processing device. A system characterized by the following features.

8. The system further comprises a second device that acquires the schematic diagram from the processing device and converts the schematic diagram into vector data. The third processing unit of the processing unit transmits the schematic diagram and the electronic blackboard setting information, which have been converted into vector data, to the first device. The system according to feature 7.

Images