Molding management system

Abstract

The invention provides a molding management system which enables a user to easily retrieve information of a batch of products desired by the user. The molding management system comprises a server and manages the production of a product in a production process including an injection molding process of the product, and the server is provided with a storage part and a control part. The storage unit stores batch identification information for identifying a batch of a product and batch-related information including one or more pieces of information relating to the batch of the product in association with each other, and the control unit causes the terminal device to display a batch search image in which a search operation for searching the batch of the product is accepted from the terminal device. The control unit receives at least one piece of information from among the one or more pieces of information included in the batch-related information via the batch search image by a search operation. The control unit causes the terminal device to display lot information indicating a lot identified by each of the one or more pieces of lot identification information associated with the received at least one piece of information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a molding management system. Background Art

[0002] Techniques for managing the production of products in a production process including an injection molding process of products using a material containing metal powder implemented by an injection molding device have been studied and developed.

[0003] Regarding this, a system that can retrieve information on products molded by a plurality of injection molding devices in units of batches is known (see Patent Document 1).

[0004] In the system described in Patent Document 1, when retrieving information on products of a certain batch, it is necessary to use batch identification information for identifying the batch to retrieve the information. However, it is difficult for users of this system to always remember batch identification information for batches that are not in production, batches that are not nearby, etc. Therefore, this system sometimes makes it difficult for users to retrieve information on products of the batch they desire.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2006-018576 Summary of the Invention

[0006] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present disclosure is a molding management system. The molding management system includes a server communicably connected to a terminal device, and manages the production of the products in a production process including an injection molding process of the products implemented by an injection molding device. The server includes a storage unit and a control unit. The storage unit stores batch identification information for identifying batches of the products and batch association information including one or more pieces of information related to the batches of the products in association with each other. The control unit causes the terminal device to display a batch retrieval image for receiving a retrieval operation for retrieving the batches of the products from the terminal device. When at least one piece of information among the one or more pieces of information included in the batch association information is received through the retrieval operation via the batch retrieval image, the control unit causes the terminal device to display batch information indicating the batches identified by one or more pieces of the batch identification information corresponding to the received at least one piece of information. Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007] Figure 1 A diagram showing an example of the structure of the molding management system 1.

[0008] Figure 2 A diagram showing an example of the main menu image P1.

[0009] Figure 3 A diagram showing an example of the terminal image P2.

[0010] Figure 4 A diagram showing an example of the batch retrieval image P3.

[0011] Figure 5 A diagram showing an example of the detailed information display image P4.

[0012] Figure 6 A diagram showing an example of the situation where the batch information of the batch indicating batch completion is selected in the retrieval result display area RG2.

[0013] Figure 7 A diagram showing an example of the batch retrieval image P3 after retrieving the batch information of each of one or more batches started during the target period.

[0014] Figure 8 A diagram showing an example of the batch stop reason acceptance image P5 displayed on the terminal device 40 when the selection operation of the button B43 shown in Figure 7 is performed.

[0015] Figure 9 A diagram showing an example of the retrieval result display area RG2 after the selection operation of the button B51 shown in Figure 8 is just performed.

[0016] Figure 10 A diagram showing an example of the situation where the batch information of each of the four batches in batch stop shown in the retrieval result display area RG2 shown in Figure 9 is selected.

[0017] Figure 11 A diagram showing another example of the batch retrieval image P3 after retrieving the batch information of each of one or more batches started during the target period.

[0018] Figure 12 A diagram showing an example of the batch deletion reason acceptance image P6 displayed on the terminal device 40 when the selection operation of the button B45 shown in Figure 11 is performed.

[0019] Figure 13 A diagram showing a further other example of the batch retrieval image P3 after retrieving the batch information of each of one or more batches started during the target period.

[0020] Figure 14 A diagram showing an example when the selection operation of the button B45 shown in Figure 13A diagram showing an example of the printed user information reception image P7 displayed on the terminal device 40 in the case of a selection operation of the button B46 shown.

[0021] Figure 15 A diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of the server 30.

[0022] Figure 16 A diagram showing an example of the functional structure of the server 30.

[0023] Figure 17 A diagram showing an example of the processing flow in which the server 30 retrieves batches. Detailed implementation mode

[0024] Implementation mode

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0026] Outline of the molding management system

[0027] First, an outline of the molding management system according to the embodiment will be described.

[0028] The molding management system according to the embodiment manages the production of products in a production process including an injection molding process of products performed by an injection molding device. This molding management system includes a server. The server is communicably connected to a terminal device. In addition, the server has a storage unit and a control unit. The storage unit stores the batch identification information for identifying batches of products and the batch association information including one or more pieces of information related to the batches of products in association with each other. The control unit causes the terminal device to display a batch retrieval image for receiving a retrieval operation for retrieving batches of products from the terminal device. Moreover, when at least one piece of information among the one or more pieces of information included in the batch association information is received through the retrieval operation via the batch retrieval image, the control unit causes the terminal device to display batch information of batches identified by each of the one or more batch identification information corresponding to the received at least one piece of information.

[0029] Thus, the molding management system according to the embodiment enables a user to use information other than batch identification information as a retrieval keyword when the user retrieves a batch desired by the user. As a result, this molding management system enables the user to easily retrieve information on products of batches desired by the user.

[0030] Hereinafter, the structure of the injection molding system according to the embodiment and the processing performed by the server included in the injection molding system will be described in detail.

[0031] Structure of the molding management system

[0032] Hereinafter, taking the molding management system 1 as an example, the structure of the molding management system according to the embodiment will be described.

[0033] Figure 1 FIG. is a diagram showing an example of the structure of the molding management system 1.

[0034] The molding management system 1 is a type of Manufacturing Execution System (MES). For example, the molding management system 1 includes one or more managed devices 10, an information processing device 20, and a server 30. In addition, the molding management system 1 may also have a structure that does not include a part or all of the one or more managed devices 10. Furthermore, the molding management system 1 may also have a structure that does not include the information processing device 20. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where the molding management system 1 includes a plurality of managed devices 10 as one or more managed devices 10 will be described.

[0035] The plurality of managed devices 10 included in the molding management system 1 are each devices that are managed by the molding management system 1. In Figure 1 For the sake of convenience of explanation, these plurality of managed devices 10 are each represented by the same symbol. However, a part or all of these plurality of managed devices 10 may be devices of different types from each other. Among these plurality of managed devices 10, at least one injection molding device that uses a resin such as plastic for injection molding of products is included. Figure 1 The injection molding device 11 shown is an example of such an injection molding device. In addition, among these plurality of managed devices 10, an injection molding device for Metal Injection Molding (MIM) of products may also be included. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the injection molding of products using a resin such as plastic will be simply referred to as injection molding for description. Furthermore, hereinafter, the injection molding device that uses a resin such as plastic for injection molding of products will be simply referred to as an injection molding device for description. In addition, among the plurality of managed devices 10, in addition to the injection molding device, peripheral equipment of the injection molding device and the like are included. For example, the peripheral equipment of the injection molding device is a material supply device that supplies the material for the injection molding device to perform injection molding of products to the injection molding device, a conveying device that conveys the products injection molded by the injection molding device, a cleaning device that cleans the products injection molded by the injection molding device, a sintering device that sinters the products after being cleaned by the cleaning device, etc., but is not limited thereto. In addition, at least one injection molding device included in the plurality of managed devices 10 may also be a device that uses materials other than resin and metal for injection molding.

[0036] The molding management system 1 manages the production of products in a production process including an injection molding process of products implemented by injection molding devices included in a plurality of managed devices 10. Here, each injection molding device included in the plurality of managed devices 10 may have any structure as long as it can produce products by injection molding. In the following, for the sake of convenience of explanation, a single injection molding of a product implemented by an injection molding device is referred to as a single injection for explanation. In such a case, for example, a double injection is two injection moldings of a product implemented by an injection molding device.

[0037] The information processing device 20 acquires status information indicating the status of each of the plurality of managed devices 10 from the managed device 10. For example, the information processing device 20 acquires status information about the injection molding device 11 from the injection molding device 11. In such status information, a time stamp indicating the date and time when the status information is acquired by the information processing device 20 is included. In addition, device identification information for identifying the managed device 10 in the status indicated by the status information is included in a certain status information. In addition, detection information detected by one or more various sensors installed in the managed device 10 is included in the status information. The detection information includes, for example, information indicating temperature, information indicating pressure, information indicating current value, information indicating voltage value, etc. That is, the one or more various sensors are, for example, a thermometer, a pressure gauge, an ammeter, a voltmeter, etc., but are not limited thereto. In addition, it may be configured such that, in the detection information, instead of a part or all of these information, or in addition to all of these information, other information detected by the sensor is included. In addition, operation status information indicating the operation status of the managed device 10 is included in the status information. The operation status information indicating the operation status of the managed device 10 may be any information as long as it includes information indicating whether the managed device is operating. In addition, the acquisition of the status information implemented by such an information processing device 20 may be performed periodically or aperiodically. In the following, as an example, a case where the information processing device 20 acquires status information every time the above-mentioned single injection is performed will be described. When the information processing device 20 acquires a certain status information, the acquired status information is output to the server 30. Thereby, the information processing device 20 can store the acquired status information in the server 30.

[0038] The information processing device 20 is, for example, a workstation, a desktop PC (Personal Computer), a notebook PC, etc., but is not limited thereto. The information processing device 20 is communicably connected to a plurality of managed devices 10 via wired or wireless communication, respectively. The communication network connecting each of the information processing device 20 and the plurality of managed devices 10 is, for example, a local area network (LAN) within a facility where the plurality of managed devices 10 are provided, but is not limited thereto. This communication network may also be other communication networks such as the Internet or a mobile communication network.

[0039] The server 30 stores the status information acquired by the information processing device 20. For example, when the server 30 acquires a certain status information from the information processing device 20, the acquired status information is stored. Here, when the server 30 has already stored the status information including the device identification information included in the status information, the already stored status information is replaced with the newly acquired status information. Thus, the server 30 can always keep the status information indicating the status of the managed device 10 indicated by the device identification information as the latest status information. In addition, the server 30 may be configured to store all the acquired status information without performing such replacement. Furthermore, the server 30 may be configured to re-store the status information before replacement as historical information indicating the status of the managed device 10 even when such replacement is performed.

[0040] In addition, the server 30 responds to a request from a terminal device communicably connected to the server 30, and causes the display unit of the terminal device to display various images based on the status information stored in the server 30. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where the server 30 is communicably connected to the terminal device 40 as Figure 1 shown will be described. In addition, in the present embodiment, the processing related to the login to the server 30 performed by the terminal device 40 is known processing, and thus the description thereof is omitted. Furthermore, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the action in which the server 30 accepts an operation from the terminal device 40 via an image displayed on the terminal device 40 will be simply referred to as the server 30 accepting an operation for explanation. That is, hereinafter, the meaning that the server 30 performs a certain process in response to the accepted operation means that the server 30 performs the process in response to the operation accepted from the terminal device 40 via the image displayed on the terminal device 40.

[0041] In addition, the server 30 accepts various information in response to the accepted operations. For example, the server 30 stores master data containing various information about the products of the injection molding device 11 in response to the accepted operations. The master data includes, for example, product identification information for identifying various products produced by the injection molding device 11, production quantity planned value information representing the planned value of the production quantity of the products identified by each product identification information, mold identification information for identifying the molds used in the production of the products identified by each product identification information, and the like. The data structure of the master data can be any structure. For example, the various information included in the master data is included in the master data as information corresponding to the product identification information.

[0042] In addition, the server 30 causes the display unit of the terminal device 40 to display a lot retrieval image that accepts a retrieval operation for retrieving a lot of products in response to the accepted operation. The display unit is, for example, a display of the terminal device 40, a display device communicably connected to the terminal device 40, etc., but is not limited thereto. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where the display unit is a display of the terminal device 40 will be described. In addition, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, causing the display unit to display a certain image will be described as causing the terminal device 40 to display the image. The lot retrieval image is an image that accepts various information that can be used as a retrieval keyword through the above-described retrieval operation. In addition, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the lot of a product will be simply referred to as a lot. A lot is a set of one or more products to which lot identification information is assigned for management reasons. Therefore, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, a product to which lot identification information for identifying a certain lot is assigned will be described as a product of that lot. The lot identification information can be any information as long as it can identify the lot. For example, it can be an ID (Identifier) for identifying the lot, a string for identifying the lot, or other information that can identify the lot.

[0043] Here, in molding management systems other than the molding management system 1, when retrieving information about the products of a certain lot, it is necessary to use the lot identification information for identifying the lot as a retrieval keyword to retrieve the information. However, it is difficult for the user of this molding management system to always remember the lot identification information of non-production lots, lots not nearby, etc. Therefore, this molding management system sometimes makes it difficult for the user to retrieve the information of the products of the lot desired by the user.

[0044] Therefore, the server 30 of the molding management system 1 stores the lot identification information in association with lot-related information including one or more pieces of information related to the lot. Thus, in the server 30, when retrieving information on products of a certain lot, each of the one or more pieces of information included in the lot-related information corresponding to the lot identification information for identifying the lot can also be used as a search keyword for retrieving the lot together with the lot identification information. In other words, in the lot search image, in addition to the lot identification information, each of the one or more pieces of information included in the lot-related information can be used as a search keyword for lot search. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the information that associates the lot identification information for identifying a certain lot with the lot-related information including one or more pieces of information related to the lot will be referred to as lot information representing the lot for explanation. That is, when the server 30 receives at least one piece of information among the one or more pieces of information included in the lot-related information through a search operation via the lot search image, the server 30 causes the terminal device 40 to display the lot information representing the lots identified by one or more lot identification information respectively corresponding to the received at least one piece of information. Thus, the server 30 can enable the user to easily retrieve information on products of the lot desired by the user. Therefore, the server 30 stores one or more pieces of lot information for each lot identification information.

[0045] For example, the server 30 causes the lot search image to be displayed on the terminal device 40 by receiving an operation via the main menu image P1 as shown in Figure 2 . Figure 2 FIG. is an example of the main menu image P1.

[0046] When the server 30 receives a main menu image display operation determined in advance, the server 30 causes the terminal device 40 to display the main menu image P1. In the Figure 2 example shown, the main menu image P1 includes six buttons, namely, buttons B11 to B16.

[0047] The button B11 is a button for displaying the control panel image. When the server 30 receives an operation on the button B11 via the terminal device 40, the server 30 generates a control panel image and causes the generated control panel image to be displayed on the terminal device 40. Here, the control panel image is an image for displaying information required for the user to manage the production of products performed by the injection molding device during the operation of the injection molding device specified by the user of the terminal device 40.

[0048] Button B12 is a button for displaying the master data management image. When the server 30 receives an operation on button B12 via the terminal device 40, the server 30 generates a master data management image and causes the generated master data management image to be displayed on the terminal device 40. Here, the master data management image is an image for receiving operations such as input, change, and deletion of the above-mentioned master data. The server 30 can perform generation, change, deletion, etc. of master data in response to an operation on the master data management image via the terminal device 40. When the server 30 generates master data, it stores the generated master data. In addition, when the server 30 changes the master data, it updates the stored master data to the changed master data.

[0049] Button B13 is a button for displaying the operation manual image. When the server 30 receives an operation on button B13 via the terminal device 40, the server 30 generates an operation manual image and causes the generated operation manual image to be displayed on the terminal device 40. Here, the operation manual image is an image for receiving an operation to display an operation manual regarding the operation method of the molding management system 1.

[0050] Button B14 is a button for displaying the terminal image P2. When the server 30 receives an operation on button B14 via the terminal device 40, the server 30 generates the terminal image P2 and causes the generated terminal image to be displayed on the terminal device 40. Here, the terminal image P2 is an image for receiving an operation to execute various update system functions possessed by the server 30 respectively. A certain type of update system function refers to a function for performing input, change, deletion, etc. of information corresponding to the type.

[0051] Button B15 is a button for displaying the user management image. When the server 30 receives an operation on button B15 via the terminal device 40, the server 30 generates a user management image and causes the generated user management image to be displayed on the terminal device 40. Here, the user management image is an image for receiving operations such as input, change, deletion, and display of information related to users in the information stored by the server 30.

[0052] Button B16 is a button for receiving an operation to log out the terminal device 40 from the server 30. When the server 30 receives an operation on button B16 via the terminal device 40, the server 30 logs out the terminal device 40.

[0053] In addition, in the present embodiment, the control panel image, the master data management image, the operation manual image, and the user management image are respectively omitted from description.

[0054] Figure 3 A diagram showing an example of the terminal image P2. AsFigure 3 As shown, in the terminal image P2, there is a button for accepting operations that cause multiple update system functions to execute respectively. One of such buttons is button B21.

[0055] Button B21 is a button for accepting an operation that causes the display of batch retrieval image P3, which is an example of the above-mentioned batch retrieval image. When the server 30 accepts an operation on button B21 via the terminal device 40, the server 30 generates batch retrieval image P3 and causes the generated batch retrieval image P3 to be displayed on the terminal device 40.

[0056] Figure 4 It is a diagram showing an example of batch retrieval image P3. In Figure 4 the example shown, batch retrieval image P3 includes batch retrieval area RG1, retrieval result display area RG2, and processing button group area RG3.

[0057] In batch retrieval area RG1, there are, for example, input fields F11 to F18, button B31, and button B32. Additionally, it can also be structured such that in batch retrieval area RG1, instead of a part or all of these GUIs (Graphical User Interface), or in addition to all of these GUIs, there are other GUIs that can accept operations for retrieving batches. Here, the above-mentioned retrieval operations refer to each operation accepted through batch retrieval area RG1.

[0058] Input field F11 is a field for inputting batch identification information for identifying the batch desired by the user. In Figure 4 it, the string "Batch Number" that overlaps with input field F11 is a string for showing the user that the information input in input field F11 is batch identification information. In Figure 4 the example shown, nothing has been input in input field F11. Additionally, inputting batch identification information into input field F11 can be done by selecting batch identification information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0059] Input field F12 is a field for inputting process information indicating the operation process that the product of the batch desired by the user is currently undergoing among various processes included in the production process. Therefore, in Figure 4 the example shown, process information is included in the above-mentioned batch-related information, and batch retrieval can be performed using process information as a retrieval keyword. In Figure 4Among them, the string overlapping with the input field F12, i.e., "process", is a string used to show the user that the information input in the input field F12 is process information. In this example, nothing is input in the input field F12. Additionally, inputting process information into the input field F12 can be done by selecting process information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0060] The input field F13 is a field for inputting injection molding device identification information for identifying an injection molding device that has molded products of the batch desired by the user or an injection molding device that is scheduled to mold products of the batch desired by the user. Therefore, in Figure 4 the example shown, the injection molding device identification information is included in the batch association information, and the injection molding device identification information can be used as a search keyword to search for batches. In Figure 4 Among them, the string overlapping with the input field F13, i.e., "device", is a string used to show the user that the information input in the input field F13 is injection molding device identification information. In this example, nothing is input in the input field F13. Additionally, inputting injection molding device identification information into the input field F13 can be done by selecting injection molding device identification information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0061] The input field F14 is a field for inputting product type information indicating the type of products in the batch desired by the user. Therefore, in Figure 4 the example shown, the product type information is included in the batch association information, and the product type information can be used as a search keyword to search for batches. In Figure 4 Among them, the string overlapping with the input field F14, i.e., "item", is a string used to show the user that the information input in the input field F14 is product type information. In this example, nothing is input in the input field F14. Additionally, inputting product type information into the input field F14 can be done by selecting product type information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0062] The input field F15 is a field for inputting information for identifying the upper-level set to which the batch desired by the user belongs. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where this set is a manufacturing batch will be described. Therefore, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, this information will be referred to as manufacturing batch identification information for explanation. Therefore, in Figure 4In the example shown, the manufacturing lot identification information is included in the lot association information, and the manufacturing lot identification information can be used as a search keyword to search for lots. Additionally, this set can also be other sets such as the work shift of the manager who manages the production of lot products. In Figure 4 , the string overlapping with the input field F15, i.e., "Task Number", is a string used to show the user that the information entered in the input field F15 is the manufacturing lot identification information. In this example, nothing is entered in the input field F15. Additionally, entering the manufacturing lot identification information into the input field F15 can be done by selecting the manufacturing lot identification information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0063] The input field F16 is a field for entering lot status information indicating the status of the lot desired by the user. Therefore, in Figure 4 the example shown, the lot status information is included in the lot association information, and the lot status information can be used as a search keyword to search for lots. In Figure 4 , the string overlapping with the input field F16, i.e., "Lot Status", is a string used to show the user that the information entered in the input field F16 is the lot status information. In this example, nothing is entered in the input field F16. The lot status information is, for example, information indicating any of the states that the lot is in a stopped state, the lot is in a production state, the lot is in a standby state, or the lot is in a completed state. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the state that the lot is in a stopped state will be simply referred to as "lot stopped" for explanation. In addition, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the state that the lot is in a production state will be simply referred to as "lot production" for explanation. In addition, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the state that the lot is in a standby state will be simply referred to as "lot standby" for explanation. In addition, hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the state that the lot is in a completed state will be simply referred to as "lot completed" for explanation. Additionally, entering the lot status information into the input field F16 can be done by selecting the lot status information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0064] The input fields F17 and F18 are fields for entering period information indicating the period of the year, month, and day including the start of the production of the product of the lot desired by the user. Therefore, in Figure 4 the example shown, the information indicating the year, month, and day is included in the lot association information, and the information can be used as a search keyword to search for lots. In Figure 4 , the string overlapping with the input field F17, i.e., "The start of the first process starts from", is a string used to show the user that the information entered in the input field F17 is the start date and time information indicating the date and time when the period starts. InFigure 4 Among them, the string overlapping with the input field F18, i.e., "The start date of the first process ends at", is a string for showing the user that the information input in the input field F18 represents the end date and time information of the date and time when this period ends. In this example, nothing is input in the input field F17 and the input field F18. Hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation, the period from the date and time indicated by the start date and time information input in the input field F17 to the date and time indicated by the end date and time information input in the input field F18 will be referred to as the target period for explanation. In addition, hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation, the start date and time information input in the input field F17 will be referred to as the target start date and time information, and the end date and time information input in the input field F18 will be referred to as the target end date and time information for explanation. Additionally, inputting the start date and time information into the input field F17 can be performed by selecting the year, month, and day using a calendar, etc. and selecting the time using a clock, etc., or can also be performed by directly inputting using an input device such as a keyboard. In addition, inputting the end date and time information into the input field F18 can be performed by selecting the year, month, and day using a calendar, etc. and selecting the time using a clock, etc., or can also be performed by directly inputting using an input device such as a keyboard. Also, the start date and time information can also be information showing only the year, month, and day. In addition, the end date and time information can also be information showing only the year, month, and day.

[0065] The button B31 is a button for accepting an operation to delete each piece of information input in part or all of the input fields F11 to F18. In other words, the button B31 is a button for accepting an operation to clear each piece of information input in part or all of the input fields F11 to F18. When a selection operation on the button B31 is performed, the server 30 deletes each piece of information input in part or all of the input fields F11 to F18. Here, in this embodiment, the selection operation is an operation such as clicking or tapping, but is not limited thereto.

[0066] The button B32 is a button for accepting an operation to execute a batch search based on each piece of information input in part or all of the input fields F11 to F18. When a selection operation on the button B32 is performed, the server 30 extracts one or more batch information containing each piece of information input in part or all of the input fields F11 to F18 from one or more pieces of pre-stored batch information. After extracting one or more pieces of batch information, the server 30 causes a list of the one or more pieces of extracted batch information to be displayed in the search result display area RG2. Hereinafter, for the convenience of explanation, this list will be simply referred to as the batch information list for explanation.

[0067] Here, the batch information is information generated or updated, for example, based on information received from a user via one of the update system functions executable in the terminal image P2, and is information stored in the server 30. A certain batch information includes, for example, batch identification information for identifying the batch indicated by the batch information, inventory quantity information indicating the inventory quantity of the batch, product type information indicating the type of product of the batch, process information indicating the operation process currently being performed on the product of the batch, batch status information indicating the status of the batch, start date and time information indicating the date and time when the production of the product of the batch started, and so on. It may also be structured such that, in this batch information, instead of a part or all of these information, or in addition to all of these information, other information related to the batch is included.

[0068] The search result display area RG2 is an area that displays a list of batch information as a result of a selection operation on the button B32. In the search result display area RG2, when no selection operation on the button B32 is performed, a list of all batch information stored in the server 30 can be displayed, or nothing can be displayed. In Figure 4 the example shown, this list is displayed in the search result display area RG2. In addition, the number of pieces of batch information displayed in the search result display area RG2 can also be determined in advance. In such a case, the search result display area RG2 includes a button for displaying batch information that is not completely displayed in the search result display area RG2.

[0069] In Figure 4 the example shown, among the batch information displayed in the search result display area RG2, as described above, it includes batch identification information, inventory quantity information, product type information, process information, batch status information, and start date and time information. For example, in the batch information displayed at the topmost row of the Figure 4 search result display area RG2 shown, it includes "1234567890" as batch identification information, "90" as inventory quantity information, "Component 1" as product type information, "Final inspection SB1" as process information, batch status information indicating batch completion, and "2022-06-08 08:00" as start date and time information. Here, "90" is inventory quantity information indicating 90 pieces. "2022-06-08 08:00" is start date and time information indicating 08:00 on June 8, 2022. The start date and time information is an example of information indicating the year, month, and day when the production of the product of the batch desired by the user starts.

[0070] For each batch information displayed in the search result display area RG2, a detail display button is attached. The detail display button attached to a certain batch information is a button for accepting an operation to cause the terminal device 40 to display a detail information display image, and the detail information display image displays the detail information of the batch indicated by the batch information. In the detail information displayed on the detail information display image, at least a part of the information included in the batch information that is displayed in the search result display area RG2 and at least a part of the information included in the batch information that is not displayed in the search result display area RG2 are included.

[0071] For example, Figure 4 the button B40 shown is an example of a detail display button attached to the batch information in the uppermost row of the search result display area RG2 shown in Figure 4 When a selection operation on the button B40 is performed, the server 30 causes the terminal device 40 to display a detail information display image P4, and the detail information display image P4 is an example of a detail information display image that displays the detail information of the batch indicated by the batch information. Figure 5 FIG. is a diagram showing an example of the detail information display image P4. In Figure 5 the example shown, the detail information display image P4 includes display columns F20 to F29.

[0072] The display column F20 is a column for displaying the product type information included in the batch information attached to the button B40. Therefore, in Figure 5 the example shown, "Component 1" is displayed in the display column F20 as the product type information. That is, in this example, the display column F20 is a column for displaying the product type information as one of the information included in the batch information that is displayed in the search result display area RG2.

[0073] The display column F21 is a column for displaying the batch status information included in the batch information attached to the button B40. Therefore, in Figure 5 the example shown, the batch status information indicating batch completion is displayed in the display column F21. That is, in this example, the display column F21 is a column for displaying the batch status information as one of the information included in the batch information that is displayed in the search result display area RG2.

[0074] The display column F22 is a column for displaying the quality information about the batch products indicated by the batch information attached to the button B40. That is, in Figure 5In the example shown, the quality information is included in the batch information. The quality information is information indicating the result of a quality inspection performed on the product. However, in the case where no quality inspection has been performed on the product, the quality information is information indicating that no quality inspection has been performed on the product. In Figure 5 In the example shown, quality information indicating that no quality inspection has been performed on the product is displayed in display column F22. That is, in this example, display column F22 is a column that displays quality information as one of the information included in the batch information that is not displayed in the search result display area RG2. Therefore, in this example, quality information regarding the product is included in the batch-related information of the batch information.

[0075] Display column F23 is a column for displaying manufacturing batch identification information that is attached to button B40 and used to identify the upper-level set to which the batch shown in the batch information belongs. Therefore, in Figure 5 In the example shown, "09876543" as manufacturing batch identification information is displayed in display column F23. That is, in this example, display column F23 is a column that displays manufacturing batch identification information as one of the information included in the batch information that is not displayed in the search result display area RG2. Therefore, in this example, manufacturing batch identification information for identifying the upper-level set to which the batch belongs is included in the batch-related information of the batch information.

[0076] Display column F24 is a column for displaying start date and time information that is attached to button B40 and indicates the date and time when production of the product of the batch shown in the batch information began. Therefore, in Figure 5 In the example shown, "2022-06-08 08:00" as start date and time information is displayed in display column F24. That is, in this example, display column F24 is a column that displays start date and time information as one of the information included in the batch information that is displayed in the search result display area RG2.

[0077] Display column F25 is a column for displaying process information that is attached to button B40 and indicates the operation process currently being performed on the product of the batch shown in the batch information. Therefore, in Figure 5 In the example shown, "Factory inspection SB1" as process information is displayed in display column F25. That is, in this example, display column F25 is a column that displays process information as one of the information included in the batch information that is displayed in the search result display area RG2.

[0078] Display column F26 is a column for displaying inventory quantity information that is attached to button B40 and indicates the inventory quantity of the batch shown in the batch information. Therefore, in Figure 5In the example shown, "90" is displayed in the display column F26 as inventory quantity information. That is, in this example, the display column F26 is a column that displays inventory quantity information as one of the information displayed in the retrieval result display area RG2 among the information included in this batch information.

[0079] The display column F27 is a column for displaying injection molding device identification information for identifying the injection molding device that is attached to the button B40 and displays the product formed in the batch shown in the batch information or the injection molding device that is scheduled to form the product in this batch. Therefore, in Figure 5 the example shown, "A-1" is displayed in the display column F27 as injection molding device identification information. That is, in this example, the display column F27 is a column that displays injection molding device identification information as one of the information not displayed in the retrieval result display area RG2 among the information included in this batch information. Therefore, in this example, the injection molding device identification information is included in the batch-related information of this batch information.

[0080] The display column F28 is a column for displaying production quantity planned value information that represents the planned value of the production quantity of the product in the batch shown in the batch information and is attached to the button B40 and displayed. Therefore, in Figure 5 the example shown, "100" is displayed in the display column F28 as production quantity planned value information. "100" as the production quantity planned value information indicates that the planned value shown in the production quantity planned value information is 100. That is, in this example, the display column F28 is a column that displays production quantity planned value information as one of the information not displayed in the retrieval result display area RG2 among the information included in this batch information. Therefore, in this example, the production quantity planned value information is included in the batch-related information of this batch information.

[0081] The display column F29 is a column for displaying end date and time information that represents the date and time when the production of the product in the batch shown in the end batch information ends or the date and time when the production is scheduled to end and is attached to the button B40 and displayed. Therefore, in Figure 5 the example shown, "2022-06-08 12:00" is displayed in the display column F29 as end date and time information. "2022-06-08 12:00" as the end date and time information represents 12:00 on June 8, 2022. That is, in this example, the display column F29 is a column that displays end date and time information as one of the information not displayed in the retrieval result display area RG2 among the information included in this batch information. Therefore, in this example, the end date and time information representing the date and time when the production of the product in this batch ends or the date and time when the production is scheduled to end is included in the batch-related information of this batch information.

[0082] Here, one or more pieces of information included in the batch association information of a certain batch information correspond to the batch identification information included in the batch information as described above. Therefore, the server 30 can use the batch identification information to extract the batch information from the storage area of the server 30. This is useful because it can not only simplify the data structure of the batch information but also reduce the load of the retrieval process of the batches implemented by the server 30.

[0083] As described above, when a selection operation is performed on the details display button attached to each batch information in the retrieval result display area RG2, the server 30 causes the terminal device 40 to display a details information display image for displaying the details information of the batch information attached to the details information display button on which the selection operation has been performed. In addition, the details information display image can be Figure 5 structured to be overlapped on the batch retrieval image P3 as shown, or can be structured to be displayed within a predetermined area within the batch retrieval image P3.

[0084] In addition, when one or more pieces of batch information are displayed in the retrieval result display area RG2, a check box for accepting an operation of selecting the one or more pieces of batch information is displayed. For example, Figure 4 the check box C1 shown is a check box for accepting an operation of selecting the batch information displayed in the uppermost row of the retrieval result display area RG2. In addition, it can also be structured to display a check box in the retrieval result display area RG2 for accepting an operation of selecting all the batch information displayed in the retrieval result display area RG2. Thus, the server 30 can reduce the time and effort required for the user to select the batch information. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, the operation of selecting the batch information via such a check box will be described as a batch information selection operation.

[0085] The processing button group area RG3 is an area for displaying a GUI for accepting a processing execution operation that causes the server 30 to start performing a predetermined process on each batch indicated by one or more batches of batch information selected according to the accepted batch information selection operation from among one or more pieces of batch information displayed in the retrieval result display area RG2. In Figure 4 the example shown, eleven buttons are displayed in the processing button group area RG3 as such a GUI. Moreover, in this example, six buttons from button B41 to button B46 are included among the eleven buttons. In the present embodiment, the description of the buttons other than the six buttons among the eleven buttons is omitted.

[0086] Button B41 is a button for accepting a first process execution operation. The first process execution operation causes the server 30 to start executing a process of changing the batch status information of the batches in standby in the batch selected by the user in the search result display area RG2 to the batch status information indicating that the batch is in production. When a predetermined first gray-out condition is satisfied, the server 30 gray-outs button B41 and does not accept a selection operation on button B41. On the other hand, when the first gray-out condition is not satisfied, the server 30 releases the gray-out of button B41 and accepts a selection operation on button B41. When a selection operation on button B41 is performed, the server 30 executes a process of changing the batch status information of the batches in standby in the batch selected by the user in the search result display area RG2 to the batch status information indicating that the batch is in production. Here, the first gray-out condition is a condition including, for example, the following two conditions: condition 1A and condition 1B.

[0087] Condition 1A: Among the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2, there are batches in a status other than in standby.

[0088] Condition 1B: The user has not selected any batches in the search result display area RG2.

[0089] When either condition 1A or condition 1B is satisfied, the server 30 determines that the first gray-out condition is satisfied. On the other hand, when neither condition 1A nor condition 1B is satisfied, the server 30 determines that the first gray-out condition is not satisfied.

[0090] Button B42 is a button for accepting a second process execution operation. The second process execution operation causes the server 30 to start executing a process of changing the batch status information of the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2 to the batch status information indicating that the batch is completed. When a predetermined second gray-out condition is satisfied, the server 30 gray-outs button B42 and does not accept a selection operation on button B42. On the other hand, when the second gray-out condition is not satisfied, the server 30 releases the gray-out of button B42 and accepts a selection operation on button B42. When a selection operation on button B42 is performed, the server 30 executes a process of changing the batch status information of the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2 to the batch status information indicating that the batch is completed. In addition, the second gray-out condition is a condition including, for example, the following two conditions: condition 2A and condition 2B.

[0091] Condition 2A: Among the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2, there are batches that are completed.

[0092] Condition 2B: The user has not selected any batches in the search result display area RG2

[0093] When the server 30 meets either Condition 2A or Condition 2B, it determines that the second grayscale condition is met. On the other hand, when the server 30 does not meet both Condition 2A and Condition 2B, it determines that the second grayscale condition is not met.

[0094] Button B43 is a button for accepting the execution operation of the third process. The third process execution operation causes the server 30 to start executing a process of changing the batch status information of batches in production and the batch status information of batches on standby in the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2 to the batch status information indicating that the batch is stopped. When a predetermined third grayscale condition is met, the server 30 grays out button B43 and does not accept the selection operation of button B43. On the other hand, when the third grayscale condition is not met, the server 30 cancels the grayscale of button B43 and accepts the selection operation of button B43. When the selection operation of button B43 is performed, the server 30 executes a process of changing the batch status information of batches in production and the batch status information of batches on standby in the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2 to the batch status information indicating that the batch is stopped. In addition, the third grayscale condition is a condition including, for example, the following two conditions: Condition 3A and Condition 3B.

[0095] Condition 3A: Among the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2, there are batches that are stopped and batches that are on standby

[0096] Condition 3B: The user has not selected any batches in the search result display area RG2

[0097] When the server 30 meets either Condition 3A or Condition 3B, it determines that the third grayscale condition is met. On the other hand, when the server 30 does not meet both Condition 3A and Condition 3B, it determines that the third grayscale condition is not met.

[0098] Button B44 is a button for accepting an operation to execute a fourth process. The fourth process execution operation causes the server 30 to start executing a process of changing the batch status information of the batch that is in the batch stop among the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2 to the batch status information indicating that the batch is in production. When a predetermined fourth graying condition is satisfied, the server 30 grays out button B44 and does not accept a selection operation on button B44. On the other hand, when the fourth graying condition is not satisfied, the server 30 releases the graying of button B44 and accepts a selection operation on button B44. When a selection operation on button B44 is performed, the server 30 executes a process of changing the batch status information of the batch that is in the batch stop among the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2 to the batch status information indicating that the batch is in production. In addition, the fourth graying condition is a condition including, for example, the following two conditions, condition 4A and condition 4B.

[0099] Condition 4A: Among the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2, there are batches with a status other than batch stop

[0100] Condition 4B: The user has not selected any batches in the search result display area RG2

[0101] The server 30 determines that the fourth graying condition is satisfied when either condition 4A or condition 4B is satisfied. On the other hand, the server 30 determines that the fourth graying condition is not satisfied when both condition 4A and condition 4B are not satisfied.

[0102] Button B45 is a button for accepting an operation to execute a fifth process. The fifth process execution operation causes the server 30 to start executing a process of deleting the batch information of the batch selected by the user in the search result display area RG2. When a predetermined fifth graying condition is satisfied, the server 30 grays out button B45 and does not accept a selection operation on button B45. On the other hand, when the fifth graying condition is not satisfied, the server 30 releases the graying of button B45 and accepts a selection operation on button B45. When a selection operation on button B45 is performed, the server 30 executes a process of deleting the batch information of the batch selected by the user in the search result display area RG2. In addition, the fifth graying condition is a condition including, for example, the following condition 5.

[0103] Condition 5: The user has not selected any batches in the search result display area RG2

[0104] When the server 30 satisfies condition 5, it determines that the fifth graying condition is satisfied. On the other hand, when the server 30 does not satisfy condition 5, it determines that the fifth graying condition is not satisfied. In addition, in order to prevent the user from accidentally selecting the button B45 when the fifth graying condition is not satisfied, the server 30 may be configured to display the button B45 in a different manner from the other buttons included in the processing button group area RG3. In such a case, for example, as Figure 6 shown, the server 30 sets the color of the button B45 to a color different from the colors of the other buttons included in the processing button group area RG3. Thereby, the server 30 can prevent the user from accidentally selecting the button B45 when the fifth graying condition is not satisfied. In addition, in Figure 6 , the difference in the colors of such buttons is represented by shading.

[0105] The button B46 is a button for accepting a sixth processing execution operation that causes the server 30 to start executing a process of printing the labels of the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2. When a predetermined sixth graying condition is satisfied, the server 30 grays out the button B46 and does not accept a selection operation on the button B46. On the other hand, when the sixth graying condition is not satisfied, the server 30 cancels the graying of the button B46 and accepts a selection operation on the button B46. When a selection operation on the button B46 is performed, the server 30 executes a process of printing the labels of the batches selected by the user in the search result display area RG2. In addition, the sixth graying condition is a condition including, for example, the following condition 6.

[0106] Condition 6: The user has not selected any batches in the search result display area RG2

[0107] When the server 30 satisfies condition 6, it determines that the sixth graying condition is satisfied. On the other hand, when the server 30 does not satisfy condition 6, it determines that the sixth graying condition is not satisfied.

[0108] By including the processing button group area RG3 in the batch search image P3, the server 30 can reduce the procedures that the user needs to perform to cause the server 30 to execute a predetermined process for the batches desired by the user. As a result, the server 30 can reduce the time and effort of the user required for batch management, thereby improving the work efficiency of the user. This is because if the processing button group area RG3 is not included in the batch search image P3, the user must use other update system functions of the server 30 to cause the server 30 to execute a predetermined process for the batches desired by the user.

[0109] Here,Figure 6 A diagram showing an example of the state of batch information indicating a batch that has completed production being selected in the search result display area RG2. In Figure 6 the example shown, the batch information displayed in the topmost row of the search result display area RG2 is selected. Moreover, the batch status information included in this batch information indicates that the batch has been completed. In such a case, since the fifth and sixth grayscale conditions are not satisfied, the grayscale of buttons B45 and B46 is released respectively. In addition, in such a case, since the first to fourth grayscale conditions are satisfied, buttons B41 to B44 are grayscaled respectively. By such grayscaling, the server 30 can prevent users from making accidental operations.

[0110] In addition, Figure 7 A diagram showing an example of the batch search image P3 after retrieving the batch information of one or more batches started during the target period. In Figure 7 the example shown, the target period is from June 10, 2022 to June 10, 2022. Therefore, the batch information of multiple batches started on June 10, 2022 is displayed in the search result display area RG2. In addition, in this example, the status of the batch indicated by the batch information displayed in the topmost row of the Figure 7 shown search result display area RG2 is "batch in production". In addition, in this example, the status of all batches indicated by the batch information displayed in the second row and below from the top of the Figure 7 shown search result display area RG2 is "batch on standby". Moreover, in this example, the batch information displayed in the fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth rows from the top of the Figure 7 shown search result display area RG2 is selected. As a result, buttons B42 and B44 are grayscaled respectively. In such a case, for example, when a selection operation is performed on button B43, the server 30 causes the terminal device 40 to display a batch stop reason acceptance image P5 for accepting the reason for changing the batch status information included in this batch information to the batch status information indicating "batch stopped".

[0111] Figure 8 A diagram showing an example of the batch stop reason acceptance image P5 displayed on the terminal device 40 when a selection operation is performed on the Figure 7 shown button B43.

[0112] In the batch stop reason acceptance image P5, for example, there are input fields F30 to F33 and a button B51. Additionally, it can also have the following structure, that is, in the batch stop reason acceptance image P5, instead of a part or all of these GUIs, or in addition to all of these GUIs, it also includes other GUIs.

[0113] The input field F30 is a field for inputting user identification information for identifying the user. In Figure 8 , the string overlapping with the input field F30, namely "operator ID", is a string for showing the user that the information input in the input field F30 is user identification information. Moreover, in Figure 8 the example shown, "1234567" is input as the user identification information in the input field F30. Additionally, inputting user identification information into the input field F30 can be done by selecting user identification information based on a dropdown menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0114] The input field F31 is a field for inputting user name information representing the user's name. In Figure 8 , the string overlapping with the input field F31, namely "operator name", is a string for showing the user that the information input in the input field F31 is user name information. Moreover, in Figure 8 the example shown, "User 1" is input as the user name information in the input field F31. Additionally, inputting user name information into the input field F31 can be done by selecting user name information based on a dropdown menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0115] The input field F32 is a field for inputting batch stop reason information representing the reason for stopping the batch. In Figure 8 , the string overlapping with the input field F32, namely "batch stop reason", is a string for showing the user that the information input in the input field F32 is batch stop reason information. Moreover, in Figure 8 the example shown, "Other" is input as the batch stop reason information in the input field F32. Additionally, inputting batch stop reason information into the input field F32 can be done by selecting batch stop reason information based on a dropdown menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0116] The input field F33 is a field for inputting the string input by the user as an additional note regarding batch stop. In Figure 8 the example shown, as an example, a string such as "Suspicious device abnormality" is input in the input field F33.

[0117] The button B51 is a button for accepting an operation to change the batch status information included in each of one or more batch information items selected in the search result display area RG2 to the batch status information indicating that the batch is stopped. When the selection operation of the button B51 is performed, the server 30 changes the batch status information included in each of one or more batch information items selected in the search result display area RG2 to the batch status information indicating that the batch is stopped. Further, the server 30 deletes the display of the batch stop reason acceptance image P5 from the terminal device 40.

[0118] Figure 9 To show an example of the search result display area RG2 immediately after the selection operation of the Figure 8 shown button B51. As Figure 9 shown, when the selection operation of the Figure 8 shown button B51 is performed, the batch status information included in the four batch information items selected in Figure 7 is changed from the batch status information indicating that the batch is on standby to the batch status information indicating that the batch is stopped.

[0119] In this way, the server 30 can change the batch status information included in each of the selected multiple batch information items by performing the selection operation of any one of the buttons B41 to B44. As a result, the server 30 can suppress a situation where the user performs an operation of changing the batch status information included in each batch information item one by one, and thus can reduce the workload of the user regarding batch management.

[0120] In addition, in the Figure 9 shown search result display area RG2, no batch information item is selected. Therefore, the buttons B41 to B46 are all grayed out.

[0121] On the other hand, Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the state of the batch information of each of the four batches stopped, which are selected and displayed in the Figure 9 shown search result display area RG2. In such a case, since the first graying condition and the third graying condition are satisfied, the buttons B41 and B43 are as Figure 10is grayed out as shown. However, in such a case, since the second graying-out condition and the fourth to sixth graying-out conditions are not satisfied, the graying-out of each of the button B42, the buttons B44 to B46 is released. Therefore, for example, when a selection operation is performed on the button B44, the server 30 changes the batch status information included in the batch information representing the four batches from the batch status information indicating batch stop to the batch status information indicating batch standby. In addition, this is the case where the state of each of the four batches before becoming batch stop is batch standby.

[0122] In addition, Figure 11 FIG. is an example of another batch retrieval image P3 showing after retrieving the batch information of each of one or more batches started during the target period. In Figure 11 the example shown, start date and time information is not input in the input field F17. In addition, in this example, "2022-06-09" is input in the input field F18 as end date and time information. In such a case, the target period is the period before June 9, 2022. Therefore, the batch information of each of the multiple batches started before June 9, 2022 is displayed in the retrieval result display area RG2. In addition, in this example, all the batch information displayed in Figure 11 the retrieval result display area RG2 shown indicates that the status of the batches is batch completion. As a result, the buttons B41, B42, and B44 are grayed out respectively. In such a case, for example, when a selection operation is performed on the button B45, the server 30 causes the terminal device 40 to display a batch deletion reason acceptance image P6 for accepting the reason for deleting all the batch information.

[0123] Figure 12 FIG. is an example of a batch deletion reason acceptance image P6 displayed on the terminal device 40 when a selection operation is performed on the Figure 11 button B45 shown.

[0124] The batch deletion reason acceptance image P6 includes, for example, input fields F40 to F43 and a button B61. In addition, it may be structured such that, in the batch deletion reason acceptance image P6, instead of a part or all of these GUIs, or in addition to all of these GUIs, other GUIs are included.

[0125] The input field F40 is a field for inputting user identification information for identifying a user. In Figure 12 , the string "operator ID" overlapping with the input field F40 is a string for showing the user that the information input in the input field F40 is user identification information. And inFigure 12 In the example shown, "1234567" is entered in the input field F40 as user identification information. In addition, the input of user identification information into the input field F40 can be performed by selecting user identification information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0126] The input field F41 is a field for inputting user name information representing the name of the user. In Figure 12 , the string "operator name" that overlaps with the input field F41 is a string for showing the user that the information input in the input field F41 is user name information. Moreover, in Figure 12 the example shown, "User 1" is entered in the input field F41 as user name information. In addition, the input of user name information into the input field F41 can be performed by selecting user name information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0127] The input field F42 is a field for inputting batch deletion reason information representing the reason for deleting a batch. In Figure 12 , the string "batch deletion reason" that overlaps with the input field F42 is a string for showing the user that the information input in the input field F42 is batch deletion reason information. Moreover, in Figure 12 the example shown, "Obsolete long-term storage inventory" is entered in the input field F42 as batch deletion reason information. In addition, the input of batch deletion reason information into the input field F42 can be performed by selecting batch deletion reason information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0128] The input field F43 is a field for inputting a string entered by the user as an additional note regarding batch deletion. In Figure 12 the example shown, as an example, a string such as "Regular mass deletion" is entered in the input field F43.

[0129] The button B61 is a button for accepting an operation to confirm the deletion of one or more batch information selected in the search result display area RG2. When the selection operation of the button B61 is performed, the server 30 deletes one or more batch information selected in the search result display area RG2. Moreover, the server 30 deletes the display of the batch deletion reason acceptance image P6 from the terminal device 40. In addition, all the batch information thus deleted can be deleted not only from the search result display area RG2 but also from the storage area of the server 30, or may not be deleted from the storage area of the server 30.

[0130] In addition,Figure 13 A diagram showing a further example of the batch retrieval image P3 after retrieving the batch information of each of one or more batches started during the target period. In Figure 13 In the example shown, the target period is from June 8, 2022 to June 8, 2022. Therefore, the batch information of each of multiple batches started on June 8, 2022 is displayed in the retrieval result display area RG2. In addition, in this example, all the batch information displayed in the Figure 13 retrieval result display area RG2 shows that the status of each batch is batch completed. As a result, buttons B41, B42, and B44 are grayed out respectively. In such a case, for example, when a selection operation on button B46 is performed, the server 30 causes the terminal device 40 to display a printed user information acceptance image P7, which is used to accept the user identification information and user name information of the user who prints the labels of each of all the batch information.

[0131] Figure 14 A diagram showing an example of the printed user information acceptance image P7 displayed on the terminal device 40 when a selection operation on the Figure 13 shown button B46 is performed.

[0132] The printed user information acceptance image P7 includes, for example, an input field F50, an input field F51, and a button B71. Additionally, it can also be structured such that in the printed user information acceptance image P7, instead of a part or all of these GUIs, or in addition to all of these GUIs, other GUIs are also included.

[0133] The input field F50 is a field for inputting user identification information for identifying the user. In Figure 14 it, the string "operator ID" overlapping with the input field F50 is a string for showing the user that the information input in the input field F50 is user identification information. Moreover, in the Figure 14 shown example, "1234567" is input in the input field F50 as the user identification information. Additionally, inputting user identification information into the input field F50 can be performed by selecting user identification information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0134] The input field F51 is a field for inputting user name information representing the user's name. In Figure 14 it, the string "operator name" overlapping with the input field F51 is a string for showing the user that the information input in the input field F51 is user name information. Moreover, in the Figure 14In the example shown, "User 1" as the user name information is input in the input field F51. In addition, inputting the user name information into the input field F51 can be performed by selecting the user name information based on a drop-down menu or by direct input using an input device such as a keyboard.

[0135] The button B71 is a button for accepting and determining an operation to print the labels of the batches shown in each of the one or more batch information selected in the search result display area RG2. When the selection operation of the button B71 is performed, the server 30 executes the printing of the labels of the batches shown in each of the one or more batch information selected in the search result display area RG2. Thereby, the user of the terminal device 40 can summarize and re-print the labels of one or more batches in the case where the batch information is updated, in the case where the issuance of the batch labels is forgotten, in the case where the batch labels are lost, etc.

[0136] The server 30 that can cause the terminal device 40 to display the batch search image P3 like the above is, for example, a workstation, a desktop PC (Personal Computer), a notebook PC, etc., but is not limited thereto. The server 30 may also be integrally configured with the information processing device 20.

[0137] The server 30 is communicably connected to the information processing device 20 via wired or wireless communication. The communication network connecting the server 30 and the information processing device 20 can be, for example, a LAN within a facility where a plurality of managed devices 10 are provided, the Internet, a mobile communication network, or other communication networks. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where the communication network connecting the server 30 and the information processing device 20 is the Internet will be described. In such a case, the server 30 is a cloud server.

[0138] In addition, the server 30 is communicably connected to the terminal device 40 via wired or wireless communication. In Figure 1 In the example shown, the server 30 is communicably connected to the terminal device 40 via wireless communication. The communication network connecting the server 30 and the terminal device 40 can be, for example, a LAN within a facility where the server 30 is provided, the Internet, a mobile communication network, or other communication networks. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where the communication network connecting the server 30 and the terminal device 40 is the Internet will be described.

[0139] Hardware Structure of the Server

[0140] Hereinafter, with reference to Figure 15 , the hardware structure of the server 30 will be described. Figure 15A diagram showing an example of the hardware structure of server 30.

[0141] Server 30 includes, for example, a processor 31, a storage unit 32, and a communication unit 33. These structural elements are connected via a bus so as to be able to communicate with each other. In addition, server 30 communicates with information processing device 20 and terminal device 40 via communication unit 33 respectively.

[0142] Processor 31 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). In addition, processor 31 may be other processors such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) instead of the CPU. Processor 31 executes various programs stored in storage unit 32.

[0143] Storage unit 32 is a storage device including, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. In addition, storage unit 32 may be an external storage device connected through a digital input / output port such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) instead of being built into server 30. Storage unit 32 stores various information, various images, and various programs processed by server 30.

[0144] Communication unit 33 is a communication device configured to include, for example, digital input / output ports such as USB, an Ethernet (registered trademark) port, an antenna for wireless communication, etc.

[0145] Functional structure of the server

[0146] Hereinafter, with reference to Figure 16 , the functional structure of server 30 will be described. Figure 16 A diagram showing an example of the functional structure of server 30.

[0147] Server 30 includes storage unit 32, communication unit 33, and control unit 34.

[0148] The control unit 34 controls the entire server 30. The control unit 34 includes a reception unit 341, an acquisition unit 342, and a display control unit 343. These functional units included in the control unit 34 can be implemented by, for example, a processor 31 executing various programs stored in the storage unit 32. In addition, a part or all of these functional units may also be hardware functional units such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration) or an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit).

[0149] The reception unit 341 receives various information and various operations from devices communicably connected to the server 30.

[0150] The acquisition unit 342 acquires status information about each of the plurality of managed devices 10 from the managed devices 10 via the information processing device 20. The acquisition unit 342 may also be configured to directly acquire the status information from the managed devices 10 without going through the information processing device 20.

[0151] In response to an operation received via the reception unit 341, the display control unit 343 generates various images. The display control unit 343 sends the generated images to the terminal device 40 and causes the terminal device 40 to display the images.

[0152] The server performs a batch retrieval process

[0153] Refer to Figure 17 , and the process of batch retrieval of the server 30 will be described. Figure 17 FIG. is an example of a flowchart showing the process of batch retrieval performed by the server 30. Hereinafter, as an example, the case where the terminal image P2 is displayed on the terminal device 40 at a timing before the process of step S110 shown in Figure 17 will be described. In addition, hereinafter, as an example, the case where the master data and batch information are respectively stored in the server 30 at this timing will be described.

[0154] The control unit 34 stands by until an operation to display the batch retrieval image P3 is received via the terminal device 40 (step S110).

[0155] When the control unit 34 determines that an operation to display the batch retrieval image P3 has been received via the terminal device 40 (step S110 - YES), it generates the batch retrieval image P3 (step S120). The method for generating the batch retrieval image P3 in step S120 may be a known method or a method developed in the future.

[0156] Next, the control unit 34 transmits the batch retrieval image P3 generated in step S120 to the terminal device 40 and causes the terminal device 40 to display the batch retrieval image P3 (step S130).

[0157] Next, the control unit 34 waits until an operation is received via the batch retrieval image P3 displayed on the terminal device 40 (step S140).

[0158] When the control unit 34 determines that an operation has been received via the batch retrieval image P3 displayed on the terminal device 40 (step S140 - Yes), it determines whether the received operation is an operation to end Figure 17 the processing of the flowchart shown (step S150). The determination process of step S150 implemented by the control unit 34 can be performed by a known method or by a method to be disclosed in the future.

[0159] When the control unit 34 determines that the operation received in step S140 is an operation to end Figure 17 the processing of the flowchart shown (step S150 - Yes), for example, it deletes the display of the batch retrieval image P3 from the terminal device 40 and ends Figure 17 the processing of the flowchart shown.

[0160] On the other hand, when the control unit 34 determines that the operation received in step S140 is not an operation to end Figure 17 the processing of the flowchart shown (step S150 - No), it performs processing corresponding to the received operation (step S160). Here, since the processing performed by the control unit 34 in step S160 has been described in Figures 4 to 14 the description, a detailed description is omitted.

[0161] After performing the processing of step S160, the control unit 34 transfers to step S140 and waits again until an operation is received via the batch retrieval image P3 displayed on the terminal device 40.

[0162] According to the above processing, when the server 30 receives at least one piece of information among one or more pieces of information included in the batch association information via the batch retrieval image P3, it causes the terminal device 40 to display batch information of batches identified by one or more batch identification information respectively corresponding to the received at least one piece of information. Thus, the server 30 can enable the user to easily retrieve information on products of batches desired by the user. As a result, the server 30 can improve the traceability of products.

[0163] In addition, the molding management system 1 described above may also have a structure including the terminal device 40.

[0164] In addition, the retrieval of the batches described above can also be performed using the time period during which the batches did not operate properly as a retrieval keyword. In such a case, the batch-related information includes information indicating this time period.

[0165] In addition, the retrieval of the batches described above can also be performed using one or more pieces of information included in the injection molding apparatus-related information as a retrieval keyword. In such a case, the injection molding apparatus-related information is included in the batch-related information. The injection molding apparatus-related information included in the batch-related information related to a certain batch is information related to the injection molding apparatus that molds the products of this batch. For example, it is information including operation state information indicating the operation state of this injection molding apparatus, detection information regarding this injection molding apparatus, and the like. Thereby, the server 30 can more accurately improve the traceability of the products.

[0166] In addition, the retrieval of the batches described above can also be performed using an arbitrary string as a retrieval keyword. In such a case, the batch retrieval image P3 includes an input field for the user to input a string. Moreover, when the server 30 receives a string via this input field, it determines the information including the received string from among one or more pieces of information included in the batch-related information, and causes the batch information of the batches identified by the batch identification information corresponding to the determined information to be displayed in the retrieval result display area RG2. Thereby, the server 30 can make it easier for the user to perform the retrieval of batches.

[0167] In addition, the contents described above can be combined arbitrarily.

[0168] Supplementary Note

[0169] Mode 1

[0170] A molding management system includes a server communicably connected to a terminal device, and manages the production of a product in a production process including an injection molding process of the product performed by an injection molding device. The server includes a storage unit and a control unit. The storage unit stores batch identification information for identifying batches of the product and batch-related information including one or more pieces of information related to the batches of the product in association with each other. The control unit causes the terminal device to display a batch search image for receiving a search operation for searching for the batches of the product from the terminal device. When at least one piece of information among the one or more pieces of information included in the batch-related information is received via the batch search image through the search operation, the control unit causes the terminal device to display batch information indicating the batches identified by one or more pieces of the batch identification information corresponding to the received at least one piece of information.

[0171] Mode 2

[0172] The molding management system according to Mode 1, wherein injection molding device-related information related to the injection molding device is included as the one or more pieces of information in the batch-related information, the injection molding device molds the product of the batch identified by the batch identification information corresponding to the batch-related information, and the injection molding device-related information includes at least one of operation state information indicating the operation state of the injection molding device and detection information detected by one or more sensors mounted on the injection molding device.

[0173] Mode 3

[0174] The molding management system according to Mode 1 or Mode 2, wherein quality information about the product of the batch identified by the batch identification information corresponding to the batch-related information is included in the batch-related information.

[0175] Mode 4

[0176] The molding management system according to any one of Modes 1 to 3, wherein when a character string is received via the batch search image, the control unit determines the information including the received character string from among the one or more pieces of information, and causes the terminal device to display the batch information indicating the batches identified by one or more pieces of the batch identification information corresponding to the determined information.

[0177] Mode 5

[0178] The molding management system according to any one of Modes 1 to 4, wherein the control unit causes a GUI for executing a process acceptance operation to be displayed, and the process execution operation is for causing the server to start executing a predetermined process on each of one or more pieces of batch information selected according to the accepted batch information from among one or more pieces of batch information displayed on the terminal device.

[0179] Mode 6

[0180] The molding management system according to Mode 5, wherein when a pre-determined gray-out condition is satisfied, the control unit grays out the GUI.

[0181] Mode 7

[0182] The molding management system according to any one of Modes 1 to 6, which includes the terminal device.

[0183] Mode 8

[0184] The molding management system according to any one of Modes 1 to 7, which includes the injection molding device.

[0185] As described above, the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the drawings, but the specific structure is not limited to this embodiment, and changes, replacements, deletions, etc. can be made as long as the gist of the present disclosure is not deviated from.

[0186] In addition, it can also be set as follows: a program for realizing the function of any structural part in the device described above is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the computer system reads and executes this program. Here, the device is, for example, the injection molding device 11, the information processing device 20, the server 30, the terminal device 40, etc. In addition, the "computer system" mentioned here refers to a system including hardware such as an OS (Operating System) and peripheral devices. In addition, the "computer-readable recording medium" refers to a removable medium such as a floppy disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, a CD (Compact Disk)-ROM, etc., and a storage device such as a hard disk built in the computer system. In addition, the "computer-readable recording medium" also includes a medium that stores a program for a certain period of time, such as a volatile memory inside a server or a client computer system when the program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line.

[0187] In addition, the above program can also be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a storage device or the like to other computer systems via a transmission medium or through a carrier wave in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" for transmitting the program refers to a medium having a function of transmitting information, such as a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line.

[0188] In addition, the above program can be a program for implementing a part of the above functions. In addition, the above program can also be a program that can implement the above functions by combining with a program already recorded in the computer system, that is, a so-called differential file or differential program.

[0189] Symbol Explanation

[0190] 1... Molding management system; 10... Device to be managed; 11... Injection molding device; 20... Information processing device; 30... Server; 31... Processor; 32... Storage unit; 33... Communication unit; 34... Control unit; 40... Terminal device; 341... Reception unit; 342... Acquisition unit; 343... Display control unit; P1... Main menu image; P2... Terminal image; P3... Batch search image; P4... Detail information display image; P5... Batch stop reason reception image; P6... Batch deletion reason reception image; P7... Print user information reception image.

Claims

1. A molding management system comprising a server connected to a terminal device in a communicable manner, and managing the production of a product in a production process including an injection molding process of the product performed by an injection molding device, The server includes a storage unit and a control unit. The storage unit stores lot identification information for identifying a lot of the product and lot related information including one or more information related to the lot of the product in association with each other. the control unit causes the terminal device to display a lot search image for accepting a search operation for searching the lot of the product from the terminal device, When the control unit receives at least one of the one or more information included in the batch related information through the batch search image by the search operation, the control unit causes the terminal device to display batch information indicating the batch identified by the one or more batch identification information respectively associated with the received at least one information.

2. The molding management system according to claim 1, wherein: The batch-related information includes, as the one or more information, injection molding device-related information related to an injection molding device, the injection molding device performing molding of the product of the batch identified by the batch identification information corresponding to the batch-related information, The injection molding device-related information includes at least one of operation state information indicating an operation state of the injection molding device and detection information detected by one or more sensors mounted on the injection molding device.

3. The molding management system according to claim 1, wherein: The lot-related information includes quality information on the product of the lot identified by the lot identification information associated with the lot-related information.

4. The molding management system according to claim 1, wherein: When receiving a character string via the batch search image, the control unit identifies information including the received character string from the one or more information, and causes the terminal device to display the batch information indicating the batch identified by the one or more batch identification information corresponding to the identified information.

5. The molding management system according to claim 1, wherein: The control unit displays a graphical user interface for accepting a process execution operation for causing the server to start executing a predetermined process on the batch indicated by each of the one or more batch information selected according to the accepted batch information selection operation from among the one or more batch information displayed on the terminal device.

6. The forming management system according to claim 5, wherein: The control unit grays out the graphical user interface when a predetermined graying-out condition is satisfied.

7. The molding management system according to claim 1, wherein: Including the terminal device.

8. The molding management system according to claim 1, wherein: The invention comprises the injection molding device.

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