Information management system, information management method, and storage medium storing information management program

Abstract

An information management system, an information management method, and a storage medium storing an information management program. The information management system has a storage unit that stores a database including a component table, a process table, and an equipment table. The component table, the process table, and the equipment table each include a designation of an approver for information included therein. The information management system includes a search unit that, in response to an occurrence of a change in a production site or an occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site, searches the database for an item corresponding to a content of the change, i.e., a change content, and searches for an approver of the searched item, an approval request unit that requests, for the searched approver, approval on reflecting the change content in the database, and an update unit that, in response to an approval from the approver, reflects the change content in the corresponding item of the database.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to an information management system, an information management method, and a storage medium storing an information management program. BACKGROUND

[0002] With the development of information communication technology, a digital process that is advanced in a design site is also being developed in a production site. More specifically, information management technology for parts, processes, and equipment (production line) such as BOM (Bill Of Materials), BOP (Bill Of Process), and BOE (Bill of Equipment) is introduced. In the future, in order to flexibly cope with changes in production targets and the like, it is envisaged that a CPS (Cyber-Physical System) or the like that digitizes design information and information of production devices and workers will be widespread.

[0003] For example, International Publication No. 2018 / 079185 discloses a technology that integrates the entire product life cycle from planning, design, production (manufacturing), operation, utilization, and maintenance of a product, and that integrates manufacturing management of a manufacturing order in real time from a manufacturing site.

[0004] A main reason that hinders digitization of the above-described production site is that it is difficult to reliably reflect information that manages the content of improvement activities (for example, adjustment, change, and the like of a production line, a device by a production technician) performed every day in the production site. Therefore, there is a problem that information cannot be properly synchronized between an information management system (Cyber-Physical) and an actual production site (Physical). SUMMARY

[0005] The present application provides a structure that enables reliable reflection of information of a production site by information managed by a database.

[0006] An information management system of one embodiment of the present application includes a storage unit that stores a database including a parts table, a process table, and an equipment table. The parts table, the process table, and the equipment table each include designation of an approver for information included therein. The information management system includes a search unit that searches for a project corresponding to a content of a change, that is, a change content, from the database in response to occurrence of a change in a production site or occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site, and searches for an approver of the searched project, an approval request unit that requests approval on reflection of the change content to the database for the searched approver, and an update unit that reflects the change content to the corresponding project in the database in response to approval from the approver.

[0007] According to the structure, when a change to the production site occurs, or when a change that should be reflected to the production site occurs, the information management system retrieves whether the change needs to be reflected to the database and an approver for the reflection, and thus the information of the production site can be more reliably reflected to the information managed by the database.

[0008] The change to the production site can also include a change content to a control device of the production site. According to the structure, in a case where a parameter of the control device or the like is changed by the technician in one loop of the daily improvement activity, or the like, the change content of the parameter can be reflected to the database.

[0009] The information management system can also include an evaluation section that evaluates whether the set value included in the database is appropriate based on a production performance of the production site. According to the structure, in a case where the current set value needs to be changed based on the production performance of the production site, not only the production site but also the information managed by the database can be changed.

[0010] The change that should be reflected to the production site can also be generated in response to the evaluation that the set value included in the database is inappropriate. According to the structure, the change is made in a case where the set value included in the database is inappropriate, and thus unnecessary changes can be avoided.

[0011] The information management system can also include an estimation section that estimates a trend generated in the production site based on a production performance of the production site. The occurrence of the change that should be reflected to the production site can also be determined based on the trend generated in the production site. According to the structure, the set value or the like can be changed based on a future prediction without being based on the current production performance of the production site, and thus more effective improvement can be expected.

[0012] The information management system can also include a simulation section that performs a simulation for the production site using a model included in the database. The occurrence of the change that should be reflected to the production site can also be determined based on a simulation result of the simulation section. According to the structure, the change that should be reflected to the production site can be found even before the production of the production site starts.

[0013] The update section can also record a log related to the change content in response to a disapproval from the approver. According to the structure, the change content that is disapproved by the approver can be more reliably recorded.

[0014] The storage section can hold a second database in addition to the database. Changes to the production site or changes that should be reflected to the production site can also be temporarily reflected to the second database, and in response to approval from the approver, are reflected from the second database to the database. According to this structure, it is possible to temporarily manage the change content by using the second database during a period until approval from the approver is obtained. In addition, even in the case where the approver does not approve, it is possible to avoid a situation where the database is erroneously changed.

[0015] The information management system can also include a display section that displays a user interface screen for receiving approval from the approver. The user interface screen can also include the change content for which approval is requested. According to this structure, the approver can judge whether or not to approve on the basis of more appropriately understanding the change content for which approval is requested.

[0016] The information management method of another embodiment of the present application includes a step of holding a database including a component table, a process table, and a device table to a storage section. The component table, the process table, and the device table each include a designation of an approver for information included. The information management method includes steps of, in response to occurrence of a change to a production site or occurrence of a change that should be reflected to the production site, retrieving a project corresponding to a content of the change, that is, change content, from the database, and retrieving an approver of the retrieved project, requesting approval regarding reflection of the change content to the database from the retrieved approver, and in response to approval from the approver, reflecting the change content to the corresponding project of the database.

[0017] According to still another embodiment of the present application, there is provided a storage medium holding an information management program for causing a computer to execute an information management method. The computer has a storage section holding a database including a component table, a process table, and a device table, the component table, the process table, and the device table each including a designation of an approver for information included. The information management program causes the computer to execute steps of, in response to occurrence of a change to a production site or occurrence of a change that should be reflected to the production site, retrieving a project corresponding to a content of the change, that is, change content, from the database, and retrieving an approver of the retrieved project, requesting approval regarding reflection of the change content to the database from the retrieved approver, and in response to approval from the approver, reflecting the change content to the corresponding project of the database.

[0018] The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present application will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the present application taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0019] Figure 1is a schematic diagram showing an outline of the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0020] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a system configuration example of the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0021] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of the management device of the present embodiment.

[0022] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of the control device of the present embodiment.

[0023] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the integrated management database of the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0024] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the relationship between the integrated management database of the information management system of the present embodiment and the designer (approver).

[0025] Figure 7 is a timing chart showing an example of the processing steps in the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0026] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the user interface screen for prompting the approver in the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0027] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the change processing based on the production performance in the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0028] Figure 10 is a timing chart showing another example of the processing steps in the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0029] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing content for deciding the change content based on the production performance in the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0030] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram for explaining the change processing based on the simulation result in the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0031] Figure 13 is a timing chart showing still another example of the processing steps in the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0032] Figure 14 is a schematic diagram for explaining the change processing based on the difference between the simulation result and the production performance in the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0033] Figure 15is a sequence chart showing another example of a processing procedure in the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0034] Figure 16 is a diagram for explaining an example of an updating method of the integrated management database in the information management system of the present embodiment.

[0035] Figure 17 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method of searching for an approver in the information management system of the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0036] Embodiments of the present application are explained in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the same or corresponding portions in the drawings are designated by the same reference numerals and explanations thereof are not repeated.

[0037] <A. Application Example>

[0038] First, an example of the overall structure of the information management system 1 of the present embodiment is explained. Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an outline of the information management system 1 of the present embodiment.

[0039] Referring to Figure 1 , the information management system 1 has an integrated management database 130 containing a component table 132 corresponding to a BOM, a process table 134 corresponding to a BOP, and an equipment table 136 corresponding to a BOE. The component table 132, the process table 134, and the equipment table 136 each contain designation of an approver for the information contained therein.

[0040] The information management system 1 contains a search module 20, an approval request module 30, and an update module 40.

[0041] The search module 20 searches the integrated management database 130 for a project corresponding to a content of a change, i.e., a change content, in response to occurrence of a change in a production site or in response to occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site. In addition, the search module 20 searches for an approver of the searched project.

[0042] The approval request module 30 requests approval from the approver searched by the search module 20 regarding reflection of the change content into the integrated management database 130.

[0043] The update module 40 reflects the change content into the corresponding project of the integrated management database 130 in response to the approval from the approver.

[0044] Through such a series of processing procedures, the information of the production site can be more reliably reflected into the information managed by the database.

[0045] <B. Example of System Structure of Information Management System 1>

[0046] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram showing a system configuration example of the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Referring to Figure 2 , the information management system 1 includes a management device 100, a control device 200, and one or more information processing devices 300.

[0047] The management device 100 and the control device 200 are connected via a network 2. The management device 100 is connected to the one or more information processing devices 300 via a network 4.

[0048] The management device 100 has an integrated management database 130. In the integrated management database 130, information for managing production is saved.

[0049] The control device 200 is typically constituted by a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) or the like, and is responsible for control of the production equipment 10.

[0050] Typically, the information processing device 300 is a general-purpose computer, and is responsible for provision of information described later, acceptance of approval, and the like.

[0051] <C. Hardware configuration example of the information management system 1>

[0052] (c1: management device 100)

[0053] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of the management device 100 of the present embodiment. Referring to Figure 3 , the management device 100 is an example of a computer, and includes one or more processors 102, one or more main memories 104, a display portion 106, an input portion 108, one or more communication interfaces 110, and a storage 120. The components are electrically connected via a bus 112.

[0054] The processor 102 is constituted by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit), or the like, reads out an information management program 124 saved in the storage 120, which is an example of a storage medium, expands and executes in the main memory 104, thereby realizing processing involved in information management described later. That is, the information management program 124 is saved in the storage medium, and causes the management device 100, which is a computer, to execute the information management method of the present embodiment.

[0055] The display section 106 is configured by a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays the processing result of the processor 102. The input section 108 is configured by a keyboard, a mouse, or the like, and receives an operation from a user. The communication interface 110 exchanges data with an arbitrary device.

[0056] The storage 120 is configured by an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like, and is, for example, a storage section that stores an OS 122, an information management program 124, and a data set corresponding to the integrated management database 130.

[0057] In Figure 3 , a configuration example in which the information management program 124 is executed by the processor 102 to provide the required functions is shown, but a part or all of these provided functions can also be installed using a dedicated hardwired circuit (for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or the like). That is, the processing performed by the management apparatus 100 and the functions provided can also be realized by a processing circuitry including a processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, or the like.

[0058] Also, a plurality of management apparatuses 100 can also implement the processing described later in a distributed manner, and with respect to the hardware resources that implement the information management system 1, an arbitrary hardware resource can also be adopted.

[0059] (c2: control apparatus 200)

[0060] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of the control apparatus 200 of the present embodiment. Referring to Figure 4 , the control apparatus 200 is an example of a computer, and includes a processor 202, a main memory 204, a communication interface 206, an input / output unit 208, and a storage 220. Each component is electrically connected via a bus 210.

[0061] The processor 202 is configured by a CPU, an MPU, a GPU, or the like, reads out various programs stored in the storage 220, expands and executes them in the main memory 204, and thereby realizes processing as the control apparatus 200.

[0062] The communication interface 206 is responsible for data communication with the management apparatus 100.

[0063] The input / output unit 208 is responsible for signal exchange with the production apparatus 10.

[0064] In the storage 220, a system program 222 for implementing basic processing of the control device 200, a user program 224 for controlling the production apparatus 10, and a parameter 226 including settings and the like referred to in processing by the user program 224 are typically stored.

[0065] In Figure 4 the structure example in which the required functions are provided by execution of programs by the processor 202 is shown, but a part or all of these provided functions can also be installed using a dedicated hardwired circuit (for example, an ASIC or an FPGA).

[0066] (c3: Information processing device 300)

[0067] As for the information processing device 300 of the present embodiment, the same general-purpose computer as the management device 100 shown in Figure 3 can also be used to implement it.

[0068] (D. Comprehensive management database 130)

[0069] Next, details of the comprehensive management database 130 will be described.

[0070] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the comprehensive management database 130 of the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Referring to Figure 5 , the comprehensive management database 130 includes a component table 132 corresponding to a BOM, a process table 134 corresponding to a BOP, and an equipment table 136 corresponding to a BOE.

[0071] The component table 132 includes information related to components that make up a product, for example, includes component IDs 1321 that identify each component, setting items 1322 that include information appropriately set for each component, and design information 1323 that includes information related to the design of each component.

[0072] The process table 134 includes information related to processes used to produce a product, for example, includes process IDs 1341 that identify each process, setting items 1342 that include information appropriately set for each process, design information 1343 that includes information related to the design of each process, component IDs 1344 that identify one or more components used, and equipment IDs 1345 that identify one or more equipment used.

[0073] The equipment table 136 includes information related to equipment used to produce a product, for example, includes equipment IDs 1361 that identify each equipment, setting items 1362 that include information appropriately set for each equipment, and design information 1363 that includes information related to the design of each equipment.

[0074] By using the three types of tables described above, a range of information required for product production can be managed. Additionally, these three tables are sometimes used to generate work instructions 140 for operators.

[0075] Parts list 132, process list 134, and equipment list 136 all contain setting items that can be changed arbitrarily (setting items 1322, 1342, and 1362). In addition to their names, these setting items also include reference values ​​(reference values ​​1327, 1347, and 1367). Typically, considering deviations, the reference values ​​are defined as a reference range with a specified width.

[0076] In addition, Parts List 132, Process List 134, and Equipment List 136 all contain design information (Design Information 1323, 1343, 1363) that is information related to the design. This design information includes the designer (Designer 1328, 1348, 1368) and the verification model (Verification Model 1329, 1349, 1369). Furthermore, each piece of design information may also include a drawing ID that identifies the object drawing. The designer included in the design information may also be the approver for the corresponding information. Thus, Parts List 132, Process List 134, and Equipment List 136 each contain a designation of the approver for the included information.

[0077] Typically, the information contained in the comprehensive management database 130 is managed by different designers or approvers.

[0078] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between the comprehensive management database 130 of the information management system 1 of this embodiment and the designer (approver). (Refer to...) Figure 6 Process designers 152, production line designers 154, and equipment / fixture designers 156 may interfere with the component table 132, process table 134, and equipment table 136 contained in the integrated management database 130.

[0079] Process designer 152 is a technical personnel responsible for designing processes (techniques); production line designer 154 is a technical personnel responsible for designing production lines; and equipment / fixture designer 156 is a technical personnel responsible for designing the equipment and fixtures included in the production line.

[0080] Not limited to Figure 6 The division of designers shown can be arbitrarily divided according to factors such as the size of the organization. Furthermore, even when divided by responsibility, there are situations where the same technical personnel are responsible for multiple responsibilities.

[0081] The component table 132, the process table 134, and the equipment table 136 contain information of designers (designers 1328, 1348, 1368) who are required to give approval for changes, updates, and the like of the information contained in the integrated management database 130.

[0082] <E. Synchronization of the production site with the integrated management database 130>

[0083] Several processing examples for realizing the synchronization of the production site with the integrated management database 130 will be described.

[0084] For example, the person in charge of production technology, the manufacturing manager, makes changes and adjustments to the equipment and the production line of the production site in order to achieve the goals of improving production capacity, reducing the defective rate, and the like. As examples of the changes and adjustments, there are changes in the order of work, changes in the equipment and jigs used, changes in the workers, changes in the device parameters, and the like.

[0085] The information management system 1 of the present embodiment is capable of easily reflecting the change contents in the production site into the integrated management database 130.

[0086] (e1: reflection of change contents by the technician)

[0087] First, a processing example of reflecting the change contents of the technician such as the person in charge of production technology, the manufacturing manager, into the integrated management database 130 will be described.

[0088] Figure 7 is a time chart showing an example of the processing steps in the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Figure 7 The processing steps shown are executed not only by the management device 100, the control device 200, and the information processing device 300, but also by the technician who makes changes and adjustments to the equipment and the production line of the production site, and the approver (designer) related to the changes and adjustments.

[0089] Referring to Figure 7 , the technician makes an arbitrary change operation to the production site (sequence SQ2). The control device 200 changes the parameter in accordance with the change operation of the technician (sequence SQ4). As an example of the change operation, there is a change in the set value of the screw tightening torque, and the like.

[0090] The control device 200 notifies the management device 100 of the change in the parameter (sequence SQ6). The management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130, and searches for the item corresponding to the notified change in the parameter (sequence SQ8). Then, the integrated management database 130 judges whether or not the corresponding item needs to be changed (sequence SQ10).

[0091] More specifically, the management device 100 retrieves the setting item (setting item 1322, 1342, 1362) corresponding to the notified parameter from the component table 132, the process table 134, and the equipment table 136. If the corresponding setting item is not found, the management device 100 determines that the corresponding item does not need to be changed. On the other hand, if the corresponding setting item is found, the management device 100 determines whether the value of the changed parameter deviates from the reference value (or reference range) included in the setting item.

[0092] If the reference value (or reference range) is not deviated, the management device 100 determines that the corresponding item does not need to be changed. On the other hand, if the reference value (or reference range) is deviated, the management device 100 determines that the corresponding item needs to be changed.

[0093] When it is determined that the corresponding item needs to be changed (Yes in sequence SQ10), the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 to retrieve the approver of the corresponding item (sequence SQ12).

[0094] In this way, the management device 100 retrieves the item corresponding to the content of the change, that is, the change content, from the integrated management database 130 in response to the occurrence of the change in the production site, and retrieves the approver of the retrieved item (sequences SQ6 to SQ12). In this way, the management device 100 can efficiently determine the approver of the change content. Figure 7 The change in the production site in the illustrated processing step includes the change content performed on the control device 200 of the production site.

[0095] Then, the management device 100 notifies the information processing device 300 of the approver of the details of the change content and the approval request for the change content (sequence SQ14).

[0096] As the details of the change content notified to the approver, (1) identification information such as the equipment ID 1345, (2) the object setting item and the new setting value, and (3) evidence, etc. can be cited. As the evidence, for example, the production performance including the inspection result in the inspection process when the reference value is deviated, etc. can be included.

[0097] In this way, the management device 100 requests the approval of the change content to be reflected to the integrated management database 130 from the retrieved approver (sequence SQ14).

[0098] The information processing device 300 displays the details of the change content and the approval request for the change content from the management device 100 (sequence SQ16), and waits for the operation from the approver.

[0099] If the approver approves the request for approval (sequence SQ18), the information processing apparatus 300 transmits an approval notification to the management apparatus 100 (sequence SQ20). The management apparatus 100 changes the corresponding item of the integrated management database 130 in accordance with the approval notification (sequence SQ22). In this way, the management apparatus 100 reflects the change content into the corresponding item of the integrated management database 130 in response to the approval from the approver (sequence SQ22).

[0100] The management apparatus 100 generates a new work instruction 140 based on the changed integrated management database 130 as needed (sequence SQ24). Then, the series of processes ends.

[0101] On the other hand, if the approver does not approve the request for approval (sequence SQ26), the information processing apparatus 300 transmits a non-approval notification to the management apparatus 100 (sequence SQ28). The management apparatus 100 generates an item that has not been approved and associated information in accordance with the non-approval notification from the approver (sequence SQ30), and notifies the technician who has performed the change operation (sequence SQ32). The technician re-studies the content of the change operation as needed. Then, the series of processes ends.

[0102] Figure 8 is a schematic view showing an example of a user interface screen that is presented to the approver in the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Referring to Figure 8 , the user interface screen 350 is displayed on the display or the like of the information processing apparatus 300. More specifically, the user interface screen 350 includes, in addition to a message 352 indicating that the approval has been requested, the change content 354 for which the approval has been requested.

[0103] The approver, on the basis of the display content of the user interface screen 350, selects the approval button 356 in the case of approval, and selects the non-approval button 358 in the case of non-approval. The information processing apparatus 300 transmits an approval notification or a non-approval notification to the management apparatus 100 in accordance with the button selected by the approver.

[0104] In this way, the information processing apparatus 300 displays the user interface screen 350 for receiving the approval from the approver. The user interface screen 350 includes the change content 354 for which the approval is requested.

[0105] Through the above-described processing, it is possible to reflect the change content of the technician such as the head of production technology and the manufacturing manager into the integrated management database 130.

[0106] (e2: Decision and reflection of change content based on production performance)

[0107] Next, a processing example of deciding a change content based on the production performance and reflecting the decided change content to the integrated management database 130 will be described.

[0108] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining the change processing based on the production performance in the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. In the example shown in Figure 9 The information management system 1 manages a production line having the production device 10 responsible for the assembly process and the inspection device 12 responsible for the inspection process in the example shown. In the information management system 1, the process evaluation processing 160 and the approval / change processing 164 are executed.

[0109] The process evaluation processing 160 includes processing of making a judgment of whether or not a change to the integrated management database 130 is needed and a proposal of a change content based on the production performance 162 acquired from the production device 10 and the inspection device 12.

[0110] The production performance 162 includes, for example, a device ID of a device of interest, a process ID of a process of interest, a component ID of a component of interest, manufacturing conditions including a set value, and a result of processing / inspection.

[0111] The process evaluation processing 160 includes, for example, processing of judging whether or not a change to a corresponding reference value (or reference range) is needed depending on a judgment of whether or not the inspection result of the inspection device 12 deviates from the corresponding reference value (or reference range). Alternatively, the process evaluation processing 160 includes processing of judging whether or not the production performance 162 deviates from an assumption at the time of design to an extent that is not allowed, using a verification model (verification models 1329, 1349, 1369) included in the design information (design information 1323, 1343, 1363) of the component table 132, the process table 134, and the device table 136, and judging whether or not a change to corresponding information is needed.

[0112] Thus, the management device 100 evaluates whether or not the set value included in the integrated management database 130 is appropriate based on the production performance of the production site. Also, the change to be reflected to the production site is generated in response to the evaluation that the set value included in the integrated management database 130 is not appropriate.

[0113] In addition, the process evaluation processing 160 includes processing of deciding a recommended value and the like involved in the change when it is judged that a change to the integrated management database 130 is needed.

[0114] The approval / change processing 164 includes processing of notifying an approver of a request for approval of a change when it is determined by the process evaluation processing 160 that a change is needed. Further, the approval / change processing 164 includes processing of changing the corresponding item of the integrated management database 130 and the corresponding item (parameter 226) of the control device 200 in response to approval from the approver. By the approval / change processing 164, the integrated management database 130 and the control device 200 are changed simultaneously, whereby it is possible to synchronize the production site with the integrated management database 130.

[0115] Figure 10 is a time chart showing another example of the processing steps in the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Figure 10 The processing steps shown in the figure are performed not only by the management device 100, the control device 200, and the information processing device 300 but also by an approver (designer) related to changes and adjustments.

[0116] Referring to Figure 10 The control device 200 performs control of the production line (sequence SQ52). Then, the control device 200 transmits the production performance 162 to the management device 100 (sequence SQ54).

[0117] The management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 to search for an item corresponding to the production performance 162 transmitted from the control device 200 (sequence SQ56). Then, the management device 100 determines whether a change is needed for the searched item (sequence SQ58).

[0118] When it is determined that a change is needed for the corresponding item (YES in sequence SQ58), the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 to search for an approver of the corresponding item (sequence SQ60). In this way, the management device 100 searches for an item corresponding to the content of the change, i.e., the change content, from the integrated management database 130 in response to occurrence of a change to be reflected to the production site, and searches for an approver of the searched item (sequences SQ54 to SQ60).

[0119] Then, the management device 100 notifies the information processing device 300 of the approver of details of the change content and a request for approval of the change content (sequence SQ62). That is, the management device 100 requests approval from the searched approver regarding reflection of the change content to the integrated management database 130 (sequence SQ62).

[0120] The information processing device 300 displays the details of the change content and the request for approval of the change content from the management device 100 (sequence SQ64) and waits for an operation from the approver.

[0121] If the approver approves the approval request (sequence SQ66), the information processing apparatus 300 transmits an approval notification to the management apparatus 100 (sequence SQ68). The management apparatus 100 changes the corresponding item of the integrated management database 130 in accordance with the approval notification (sequence SQ70). In this way, the management apparatus 100 reflects the change content into the corresponding item of the integrated management database 130 in response to the approval from the approver (sequence SQ22).

[0122] In addition, the management apparatus 100 transmits a change instruction of the corresponding parameter to the control apparatus 200 (sequence SQ72). The control apparatus 200 changes the corresponding parameter in accordance with the change instruction from the management apparatus 100 (sequence SQ74). Then, the series of processes ends.

[0123] On the other hand, if the approver does not approve the approval request (sequence SQ76), the information processing apparatus 300 transmits a non-approval notification to the management apparatus 100 (sequence SQ78). The management apparatus 100 records a log of the item that has not been approved and the associated information in accordance with the non-approval notification from the approver (sequence SQ80). In this way, the management apparatus 100 can also record a log involved in the change content in response to the non-approval from the approver. Then, the series of processes ends.

[0124] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing content of deciding the change content based on the production performance in the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Referring to Figure 11 , the management apparatus 100 acquires the production performance 162 from the control apparatus 200 (step S2).

[0125] The management apparatus 100 judges whether or not the defective rate exceeds a prescribed value based on the acquired production performance 162 (step S4).

[0126] In addition, the management apparatus 100 judges whether or not an abnormality or a defective rate that is predicted to be possibly generated in the future based on a trend appearing in the acquired production performance 162 exceeds a predetermined determination value (step S6). The abnormality or the defective rate that is predicted to be possibly generated in the future can be calculated by abnormality detection or the like. In this way, the management apparatus 100 estimates a trend generated in the production site based on the production performance 162 of the production site.

[0127] If the defective rate exceeds the prescribed value (YES in step S4), or if the abnormality or defective rate that is likely to occur in the future exceeds the predetermined determination value (YES in step S6), the management device 100 determines the process and the equipment having a causal relationship in accordance with the process ID 1341 of the inspection process and the process table 134 (step S8). For example, the management device 100 determines the object process and the equipment on the basis of the inspection result included in the production performance 162 and the causal relationship prescribed by the process table 134.

[0128] Next, the management device 100 calculates a more appropriate set value or set range on the basis of the inspection result in the inspection process, the set item of the corresponding process and equipment, the production performance 162, or the corresponding verification model (verification models 1329, 1349, 1369) (step S10).

[0129] The management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 to search for an approver associated with the corresponding set item (step S12). Finally, the management device 100 notifies the approver of the object item and the set value (or set range) for which a new setting is recommended (step S14). In addition, the content notified to the approver can also include the simulation result based on the verification model.

[0130] In this way, it is also possible to judge the occurrence of a change that should be reflected in the production site on the basis of the trend generated in the production site.

[0131] (e3: Decision of change content based on simulation result and reflection)

[0132] Next, a processing example in which a change content is decided on the basis of a simulation result and the decided change content is reflected in the integrated management database 130 will be described.

[0133] Figure 12 is a schematic diagram for explaining a change processing based on a simulation result in the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Figure 12 In the example shown, in the information management system 1, the simulation processing 166 and the approval / change processing 164 are executed.

[0134] The simulation processing 166 includes processing of evaluating whether or not the manufacturing conditions and the like including the set value are appropriate using the verification model (verification models 1329, 1349, 1369) included in the design information (design information 1323, 1343, 1363) of the component table 132, the process table 134, and the equipment table 136 of the integrated management database 130. Further, the simulation processing 166 includes processing of making a judgment as to whether or not a change is needed in the integrated management database 130 and a proposal of a change content, and the like, on the basis of a simulation result and the like.

[0135] Further, the simulation processing 166 does not necessarily need the production facility 10 and the inspection facility 12 in a case where the simulation processing 166 is executed as a pre-verification before operation.

[0136] In the simulation processing 166, a verification model and a manufacturing condition (verification condition) are used to configure a verification environment for implementing simulation.

[0137] The approval / change processing 164 includes processing of notifying an approver of an approval request when it is judged by the simulation processing 166 that a change is needed, and includes processing of changing the corresponding item of the integrated management database 130 and the corresponding item (parameter 226) of the control device 200 in response to an approval from the approver. By the approval / change processing 164, the integrated management database 130 and the control device 200 are changed at the same time, whereby it is possible to synchronize the production site with the integrated management database 130.

[0138] Further, for the approver, for example, the simulation environment (verification environment), the set item of the object, and the new set value, the simulation result, and the like are prompted as evidence together with the approval request.

[0139] Figure 13 is a time chart showing another example of the processing steps in the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Figure 13 The processing steps shown are executed not only by the management device 100, the control device 200, and the information processing device 300, but also by an approver (designer) related to change and adjustment.

[0140] Referring to Figure 13 The management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 to generate a simulation model of the production line using the verification model of the object (sequence SQ82). The management device 100 evaluates whether or not the manufacturing condition and the like including the set value contained in the integrated management database 130 are appropriate based on a simulation result using the generated simulation model (sequence SQ84). In this way, the management device 100 performs simulation with respect to the production site using the verification model in the integrated management database 130.

[0141] If the manufacturing condition and the like are not appropriate (NO in sequence SQ84), the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 to search for an item to be changed, and decides a change content of the searched item (sequence SQ86). In this way, occurrence of a change to be reflected to the production site is judged based on the simulation result.

[0142] Further, the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 to search for an approver of the corresponding item (sequence SQ60).

[0143] In this way, in response to changes that should be reflected in the production site, the management device 100 retrieves the item corresponding to the content of the change from the comprehensive management database 130, and searches for the approver of the retrieved item (sequences SQ84 to SQ86, SQ60).

[0144] Then, the management device 100 notifies the information processing device 300 of the details of the change and the approval request for the change (sequence SQ62). That is, the management device 100 requests approval from the retrieved approver regarding reflecting the change in the comprehensive management database 130 (sequence SQ62).

[0145] The following is the execution and Figure 10 The sequences SQ64 to SQ80 shown are processed in the same way. Descriptions of these processes will not be repeated.

[0146] (e4: Decisions and reflections on changes based on the differences between simulation results and actual production performance)

[0147] Next, an example of processing is given, which involves determining the content of changes based on the difference between simulation results and actual production performance, and reflecting the determined changes in the comprehensive management database 130.

[0148] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the change processing based on the difference between simulation results and actual production performance in the information management system 1 of this embodiment. Figure 14 In the example shown, in the information management system 1, simulation processing 166 and approval / change processing 164 are performed.

[0149] Simulation processing 166 includes simulating the process using the verification models (verification models 1329, 1349, 1369) contained in the design information (design information 1323, 1343, 1363) of the component table 132, process table 134, and equipment table 136 of the integrated management database 130. Furthermore, simulation processing 166 includes the following steps: based on the simulation results and production performance 162, determining whether changes to the integrated management database 130 are necessary and proposing changes. In other words, simulation processing 166 includes the following steps: determining whether the prior simulation results and production performance 162 deviate to an unacceptable degree, thereby determining whether corresponding information needs to be changed.

[0150] In simulation processing 166, a verification environment, namely the verification environment, is constructed using a verification model and manufacturing conditions (verification conditions) to implement the simulation.

[0151] The approval / change processing 164 includes processing of notifying the approver of the approval request when it is judged by the simulation processing 166 that a change is needed. Also, the approval / change processing 164 includes processing of changing the corresponding item of the integrated management database 130 and the corresponding item (parameter 226) of the control device 200 in response to the approval from the approver. By the approval / change processing 164, the integrated management database 130 and the control device 200 are changed simultaneously, whereby it is possible to synchronize the production site with the integrated management database 130.

[0152] Figure 15 is a time chart showing another example of the processing steps in the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Figure 15 The processing steps shown are executed not only by the management device 100, the control device 200, and the information processing device 300, but also by the approver (designer) related to the change and adjustment.

[0153] Referring to Figure 15 The management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130, and generates a simulation model of the production line using the verification model of the object (sequence SQ90). The management device 100 performs simulation using the generated simulation model, and acquires the simulation result (sequence SQ92). Also, the management device 100 acquires the production performance 162 from the control device 200 (sequence SQ94).

[0154] Next, the management device 100 judges whether the simulation result and the production performance 162 deviate to an extent that is not allowed (sequence SQ96).

[0155] If the simulation result and the production performance 162 deviate to an extent that is not allowed (YES in sequence SQ96), the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130, and searches for the item that should be changed, and decides the change content of the searched item (sequence SQ98). Further, the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130, and searches for the approver of the corresponding item (sequence SQ60). In this way, the management device 100 searches for the item corresponding to the content of the change, i.e., the change content, from the integrated management database 130 in response to the occurrence of the change that should be reflected to the production site, and searches for the approver of the searched item (sequences SQ90 to SQ98, SQ60).

[0156] Then, the management device 100 notifies the information processing device 300 of the approver of the details of the change content and the approval request for the change content (sequence SQ62). That is, the management device 100 requests the approval of the searched approver regarding the reflection of the change content to the integrated management database 130 (sequence SQ62).

[0157] Hereinafter, the processing of the information processing device 300 is executed in conjunction withFigure 10 The same processing as that of the sequence SQ64-SQ80 is performed. The explanation of these processes is not repeated.

[0158] <F. Update method of the integrated management database 130>

[0159] In the information management system 1 of the present embodiment, the change to the integrated management database 130 is effective after the approver approves. Therefore, during the period until the approval request is notified and it is decided to approve or not to approve, the state in which the change to the integrated management database 130 is reserved is made. Therefore, in addition to the integrated management database 130 of the official system, one or a plurality of integrated management databases 130A of the backup system can be prepared.

[0160] Figure 16 is a diagram for explaining an example of an update method of the integrated management database 130 in the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Referring to Figure 16 , the information management system 1 has the integrated management database 130A of the backup system in addition to the integrated management database 130. In this way, in the storage 120 of the management apparatus 100, the integrated management database 130A can be saved as a second integrated management database in addition to the integrated management database 130.

[0161] When there is some change request, the corresponding change content is reflected in the integrated management database 130A (temporary change). After that, when the approval request for the change content is approved, the change content of the integrated management database 130A is reflected in the integrated management database 130.

[0162] In addition, if the approval request is not approved, the change to the integrated management database 130A is returned (rolled back) to the original. By such processing, the information of the integrated management database 130 is not changed without approval.

[0163] As shown in Figure 16 , the management apparatus 100 can also temporarily reflect the change to the production site or the change to be reflected to the production site to the integrated management database 130A of the backup system, and in response to the approval from the approver, reflect these changes from the integrated management database 130A to the integrated management database 130. By preparing such an integrated management database 130A of the backup system, it is possible to more easily achieve the change processing to the information included in the integrated management database 130.

[0164] <G. Approver>

[0165] In the above description, the process of retrieving approvers from the designers (designers 1328, 1348, 1368) described in the design information such as the component table 132, the process table 134, and the equipment table 136 was mainly described.

[0166] However, the design process is sometimes layered, and sometimes there are multiple approvers. As the layering of the design process, for example, a manner in which a plurality of layers are connected is assumed in the process design, the production line design, the equipment / jig design, and the like described above. As a result, there are multiple approvers in each layer. In such a case, one or more approvers can also be retrieved with reference to the information of the layered design process.

[0167] Figure 17 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method of retrieving approvers in the information management system 1 of the present embodiment. Referring to Figure 17 , the information management system 1 can also have design layer information 170. The design layer information 170 indicates the configuration of the layering of the process design, the production line design, the equipment / jig design, and the like. The design layer information 170 can also be saved in the management device 100.

[0168] In the example shown in Figure 17 , a plurality of equipment (equipment A, equipment B, equipment C) are associated with the process 1. For example, in a case where some information is reflected on the process 1, not only the approval from the approver for the process 1 is required, but sometimes the approval from the approver for each of the plurality of equipment associated with the process 1 is also required.

[0169] Therefore, the management device 100 can determine the layer and the object that require approval by referring to the design layer information 170, and retrieve the approver of the determined one or more objects.

[0170] By referring to such design layer information 170, even if the design process is layered, it is possible to retrieve all the approvers related thereto, and thus it is possible to appropriately and reliably reflect the required information on the design information. In addition, the information from the production site can be reflected in the design information only if it is approved by the approver of each layer, and thus it is possible to appropriately feed back the information from the site to the design information.

[0171] <H. Advantages>

[0172] In the information management system of the present embodiment, for example, in a case where it is found that the contents should be changed in the construction of the production line or the use of the production line, or in a case where it is known that a change is required based on production results or future predictions, etc., the project to which the change should be reflected and the approver for the change are searched, so it is also possible to easily reflect the change contents in the integrated management database. As a result, it is possible to avoid a situation where only certain changes are made to the production site, but the contents of the changes are not reflected in the integrated management database. That is, according to the information management system of the present embodiment, it is possible to more reliably reflect the information of the production site in the information managed by the database.

[0173] In addition, in the information management system of the present embodiment, it is possible to appropriately reflect information obtained through improvement activities performed every day at the production site in the design information. That is, it is possible to reflect in the design information items such as (1) deviation from the premise at the time of design, (2) 4M (personnel / machine / material / method) changes that could not be considered at the time of design, etc., which could not be considered at the time of design.

[0174] Embodiments of the present application have been described, but it should be considered that the embodiments disclosed this time are illustrative in all respects and are not restrictive. The scope of the present application is indicated by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications equivalent in meaning and scope to the claims.

Claims

1. An information management system, wherein the information management system has a storage section that holds a database including a component table, a process table, and an apparatus table, the component table, the process table, and the apparatus table each including a designation of an approver for information included therein, the information management system has: a search section that searches the database for an item corresponding to a content of a change, i.e., a change content, in response to an occurrence of a change to a production site or an occurrence of a change to be reflected to the production site, the change to the production site including a change content made to a control device of the production site; an approval request section that requests approval from the searched approver regarding reflection of the change content to the database; an update section that reflects the change content to the corresponding item of the database in response to approval from the approver; and an evaluation section that evaluates whether a set value included in the database is appropriate based on production performance of the production site, the change to be reflected to the production site is generated in response to the evaluation that the set value included in the database is not appropriate.

2. The information management system according to claim 1, wherein the information management system further has an estimation section that estimates a trend generated at the production site based on production performance of the production site, the occurrence of the change to be reflected to the production site is determined based on the trend generated at the production site.

3. The information management system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the information management system further has a simulation section that performs simulation for the production site using a model included in the database, the occurrence of the change to be reflected to the production site is determined based on a simulation result of the simulation section.

4. The information management system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the update section records a log related to the change content in response to disapproval from the approver.

5. The information management system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the storage section holds a second database in addition to the database, the change to the production site or the change to be reflected to the production site is temporarily reflected to the second database, and is reflected from the second database to the database in response to approval from the approver.

6. The information management system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the information management system further has a display section that displays a user interface screen for receiving approval from the approver, the user interface screen includes the change content for which approval is requested.

7. An information management method, wherein the information management method has a step of holding a database including a component table, a process table, and an apparatus table to a storage section, the component table, the process table, and the apparatus table each including a designation of an approver for information included therein, the information management method has steps of: In response to an occurrence of a change with respect to a production site, or an occurrence of a change to be reflected to the production site, a project corresponding to a content of the change, i.e., a change content, is retrieved from the database, and an approver of the retrieved project is retrieved, the change with respect to the production site including a change content made to a control device of the production site; With respect to the retrieved approver, approval is requested regarding reflection of the change content to the database; In response to the approval from the approver, the change content is reflected to the corresponding project of the database; and Based on a production performance of the production site, it is evaluated whether a set value included in the database is appropriate, the change to be reflected to the production site is generated in response to the evaluation that the set value included in the database is inappropriate.

8. A storage medium having an information management program stored therein, the information management program for causing a computer to execute an information management method, wherein the computer has a storage section that stores a database including a component table, a process table, and a device table, the component table, the process table, and the device table each including a designation of an approver with respect to information included therein, the information management program causes the computer to execute the following steps: In response to an occurrence of a change with respect to a production site, or an occurrence of a change to be reflected to the production site, a project corresponding to a content of the change, i.e., a change content, is retrieved from the database, and an approver of the retrieved project is retrieved, the change with respect to the production site including a change content made to a control device of the production site; With respect to the retrieved approver, approval is requested regarding reflection of the change content to the database; In response to the approval from the approver, the change content is reflected to the corresponding project of the database; and Based on a production performance of the production site, it is evaluated whether a set value included in the database is appropriate, the change to be reflected to the production site is generated in response to the evaluation that the set value included in the database is inappropriate.

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