Program product, component selection aid, component selection aid system and component selection aid method

Abstract

The program causes a computer to function as a component selection section that selects data indicating an object that predicts a period during which use is possible, at least one first component, and at least one second component that is used in combination with the first component; an operation mode reception section that receives data indicating an operation mode of an apparatus obtained by combining the first component and the second component; a life calculation section that, in the apparatus obtained by combining the first component and the second component, calculates a first period during which the first component can be used with a first damage probability and a second period during which the first component can be used with a second damage probability higher than the first damage probability, on the basis of data indicating a relationship between a life of the first component and the operation mode, which is stored in advance, and the operation mode received by the operation mode reception section; and an output section that outputs data indicating the first period and the second period calculated by the life calculation section to a display device or an external apparatus.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to program products, component selection assistance devices, component selection assistance systems, and component selection assistance methods. Background Technology

[0002] The design of the device involves selecting the components to be constructed from the component group and then assembling the selected components.

[0003] To facilitate the selection of components used in a device, Patent Document 1 discloses a product information provision system that, during the design stage where the overall specifications of the device have been determined but the specifications of the components constituting the device have not, provides suggestions after filtering the possible combinations of components. Furthermore, this product information provision system can display the approximate lifespan of the suggested components on a display screen.

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2012-113628 Summary of the Invention

[0005] However, while the product information providing system disclosed in Patent Document 1 can display the approximate lifespan of a component, it cannot display the detailed lifespan. Therefore, when a device designer needs to consider the detailed lifespan of a component when selecting components, if it is a mass-production device, it is possible to produce prototypes and obtain the component's lifespan through durability tests. However, if it is a small-batch production device, it is difficult to produce prototypes. Furthermore, the device to be designed includes components that need to be replaced until failure, components that need to be replaced when signs of failure are detected, or components that can be replaced after a failure. Therefore, it is necessary to know the period during which the components can be used in more detail without producing prototypes.

[0006] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its object is to provide a procedure, a component selection aid device, a component selection aid system, and a component selection aid method for selecting components in consideration of the lifespan of the components used in the device and for calculating in more detail the period during which the components can be used.

[0007] To achieve the above objectives, the program according to the present invention causes a computer to function as the following components: a component selection unit that selects data indicating an object for predicting the usable period, namely at least one first component and at least one second component used in combination with the first component; an operation mode receiving unit that receives data indicating the operation mode of a device obtained by combining the first component and the second component; a lifespan calculation unit that, based on pre-stored data indicating the relationship between the lifespan of the first component and the operation mode and the operation mode received by the operation mode receiving unit, calculates, in the device obtained by combining the first component and the second component, a first period in which the first component can be used with a first damage probability and a second period in which the first component can be used with a second damage probability that is higher than the first damage probability; and an output unit that outputs the data indicating the first period and the second period calculated by the lifespan calculation unit to a display device or an external device.

[0008] The effects of the invention

[0009] According to the present invention, in the device obtained by combining the first component and the second component, there is a lifespan calculation unit that calculates a first period during which the first component can be used with a first damage probability and a second period during which the first component can be used with a second damage probability that is higher than the first damage probability. In order to select the component in consideration of the lifespan of the component used in the device, the period during which the component can be used can be calculated in more detail. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the component selection auxiliary system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a block diagram illustrating the component selection auxiliary system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the electric motor DB according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating the speed reducer DB according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing the amplifier DB according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0015] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the lifespan of the speed reducer according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 7 This is a flowchart illustrating the auxiliary processing for selecting components involved in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the mechanical elements involved in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the operating modes involved in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0019] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the safe period, rated period, and limit period of the speed reducer according to the embodiments of the present invention.

[0020] Figure 11 This is a diagram illustrating a suggestion to extend the safe period, rated period, and limit period of the speed reducer according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0021] Figure 12 This is a diagram illustrating the modified operating mode involved in the embodiments of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the selection of auxiliary systems for the components involved in the modified example.

[0023] Figure 14 This is a diagram representing the recommended operating mode involved in the variation example.

[0024] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the lifespan of the reducer involved in the variation example.

[0025] Figure 16 It is a diagram showing the safe period, rated period and limit period of the speed reducer involved in the variation example.

[0026] Figure 17 It is a diagram showing the safe period, rated period and limit period of the speed reducer involved in the variation example.

[0027] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the selection of auxiliary systems for the components involved in the modified example. Detailed Implementation

[0028] Hereinafter, with reference to the accompanying drawings, the component selection aid, component selection method and procedure involved in the implementation of the present invention will be described.

[0029] The component selection auxiliary device 100 involved in this embodiment is as follows: Figure 1As shown, the device includes: a control unit 110 that assists in selecting components constituting the device being designed; an input unit 120 that inputs data; an output unit 130 that outputs data; and an auxiliary storage unit 160 that stores component DB (Data Base) 161. When designing the device, the component selection assist device 100 selects components considering the lifespan of the components used in the device and provides the user with more detailed information about the service life of the components.

[0030] The component selection aid 100 can be used when designing equipment that includes electrical or mechanical components. Specifically, it can be used when designing a "ball screw unit" as an example of equipment. The "ball screw unit" includes: a worktable; a ball screw that reciprocates the worktable; an "electric motor" that rotates the threaded shaft of the ball screw; a "reducer" that converts the rotational speed of the "electric motor" and transmits it to the threaded shaft of the ball screw; and an amplifier that controls the rotation of the "electric motor". Among the components constituting the "ball screw unit", the "reducer" has the highest probability of failure. Therefore, the component selection aid 100 identifies the "reducer" as the first component, predicting its usable period, and the "electric motor" as the second component used in combination with the first component, thus indicating to the user the usable period of the "reducer" as the first component. Furthermore, the second component can replace the "electric motor" with an amplifier or other components. In this embodiment, the example of a "ball screw unit" designed as an example of equipment is mainly described, but it can also be used when designing "rack and pinion", "roller feed device", "rotary table", "cart", "elevator", "crane", "conveyor", "fan", "pump" or "crank" as equipment. In addition, the "reducer" is mainly described as the first component, but the first component may include "coupling", "V belt", "toothed belt" or "roller chain" in addition to "reducer".

[0031] Control unit 110 Figure 2 As shown, the system includes: a processor 140 that executes programs; a main storage unit 150 that is used as the working area of ​​the processor 140; and an auxiliary storage unit 160 that stores various data and programs used in the processing of the processor 140. Both the main storage unit 150 and the auxiliary storage unit 160 are connected to the processor 140 via a bus 170.

[0032] The processor 140 includes an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The processor 140 executes programs stored in the auxiliary storage unit 160, thereby enabling various functions of the component-selected auxiliary device 100.

[0033] The main storage unit 150 includes RAM (Random Access Memory). Programs are loaded from the secondary storage unit 160 into the main storage unit 150. Furthermore, the main storage unit 150 is used as the operating area of ​​the processor 140.

[0034] The auxiliary storage unit 160 includes non-volatile memory, such as EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). In addition to programs, the auxiliary storage unit 160 stores various data used by the processor 140 during processing. Following instructions from the processor 140, the auxiliary storage unit 160 supplies data used by the processor 140 to the processor 140 and stores the data supplied from the processor 140.

[0035] The input unit 120 includes an input device, a serial port, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, and a LAN (Local Area Network) port, and outputs the input data to the processor 140. The input device includes a mouse, a touch panel, or a keyboard, and input is performed through user operation.

[0036] Output unit 130 is a display device including a monitor or printer, an output device capable of outputting data to other computer systems or control devices, or a combination thereof. Output unit 130 can output data to external devices.

[0037] The control unit 110 executes the program stored in the auxiliary storage unit 160, thereby... Figure 1 As shown, the element receiving unit 111, the operation mode receiving unit 112, the component selection unit 113, the life calculation unit 114, and the suggestion output unit 115 function as elements receiving unit 111, operation mode receiving unit 112, component selection unit 113, life calculation unit 114, and suggestion output unit 115.

[0038] The element receiving unit 111 receives data from the input unit 120 representing the type of equipment and mechanical elements of the design object, and stores it in the main storage unit 150. Mechanical elements are set for each type of equipment and include the equipment's performance, specifications, size, or mass. For example, when the element receiving unit 111 selects a "ball screw unit" as equipment, it refers to pre-stored data representing the mechanical elements of the "ball screw unit" and receives data for one or more of the following: table mass, load mass, load reaction force, ball screw pitch, ball screw diameter, ball screw length, or ball screw load moment of inertia. Furthermore, the mechanical element items of the equipment are pre-stored for each type of equipment.

[0039] The operation mode receiving unit 112 receives data from the input unit 120 representing the operation mode of the device being designed, and stores it in the main storage unit 150. The operation mode is the mode in which the device operates, including the amount of movement, speed, acceleration, rotational speed, or torque relative to the elapsed time. In the case of a "ball screw unit," the operation mode includes the feed amount of the worktable relative to the elapsed time.

[0040] The component selection unit 113 refers to data pre-stored in the component database 161 indicating the types of components required for each device, and selects the required components from the component groups stored in the component database 161. Specifically, the component selection unit 113 calculates the load capacity required to operate the device based on a calculation formula pre-stored in the component database 161 for each type of device, and selects components based on the calculated load capacity. In the case of a "ball screw unit," the component selection unit 113 refers to data pre-stored in the component database 161 indicating the types of components required for the "ball screw unit," and determines the required components. In this example, the component selection unit 113 selects one "motor," one "gear reducer," and one amplifier as the types of required components. Next, the component selection unit 113 calculates the load capacity required to operate the "ball screw unit". Based on the calculated load capacity, it selects a "motor" from motor DB 161A, a "reducer" from reducer DB 161B, and an amplifier from amplifier DB 161C. More specifically, the component selection unit 113 refers to the calculation formula for calculating the moment of inertia of the "ball screw unit" pre-stored in component DB 161, and calculates the moment of inertia about the thread axis of the ball screw based on the mechanical elements of the "ball screw unit" received by the element receiving unit 111, namely, the mass of the worktable, the load mass, the load reaction force, the ball screw pitch, the ball screw diameter, the ball screw length, or the load moment of inertia of the ball screw. Next, based on the moment of inertia about the thread axis and the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit 112, it calculates the load capacity required to operate the "ball screw unit" in that operating mode. The load capacity includes the torque required to rotate the threaded shaft of the ball screw. Furthermore, as a selection criterion for the "motor," the calculated load capacity can be output. Additionally, as a "gear reducer," a gear reducer corresponding to the torque output by the selected "motor" is selected. Furthermore, as an amplifier selection, an amplifier suitable for the output of the selected "motor" is selected.

[0041] The lifespan calculation unit 114 calculates the lifespan of the components included in the equipment, i.e., the period until failure occurs. In the case of a "ball screw unit," the lifespan calculation unit 114 calculates the maximum load when the "ball screw unit" operates in its operating mode, referring to... Figure 6 The lifespan information DB 162, containing data representing the lifespan and maximum load of the "gearbox," is used to calculate the period until the "gearbox," a component of the "ball screw unit," fails. The maximum load is calculated based on the operating mode. Additionally, Figure 6 The lifespan information DB 162 shown is an example of data representing the relationship between the lifespan and operating mode of the first component. Furthermore, the period until failure includes the safe period (no failure occurs in the device or component), the rated period (until replacement is required), and the limit period (the period when component failure necessitates replacement). The safe period is the period with a failure probability of less than 1%. The rated period is the period during which the component can be replaced when precursors to failure are detected, suppressing downtime for component replacement and downtime caused by failure; in this example, it is the period with a failure probability of less than or equal to 10%. The limit period is the period during which the costs associated with component replacement can be suppressed by using the component until failure occurs; in this example, the failure probability is greater than or equal to 80%. Furthermore, the safe period is an example of a first period during which the component can be used with a first probability of damage, and the rated period is an example of a second period during which the component can be used with a second probability of damage, which is higher than the first probability of damage.

[0042] The suggestion output unit 115 determines items that affect the safe period, rated period, and limit period of the components included in the equipment, as calculated by the lifespan calculation unit 114. Based on these items, it outputs data pre-stored for each item, representing suggestions for extending the safe period, rated period, and limit period. The suggestion output unit 115 calculates the ratio of the output, speed, or load when the equipment is operated according to the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit 112, relative to the pre-stored maximum allowable output, maximum speed, or maximum load of the components. Based on items where the calculated ratio is greater than or equal to a reference value, it outputs data representing suggestions. The data representing suggestions is stored in the suggestion DB 163 of the auxiliary storage unit 160 for each item. An example of a suggestion is to suppress torque generated by reducing maximum output, load torque, maximum speed, or acceleration / deceleration. Furthermore, the suggestion output unit 115 can assign scores representing the degree of influence on lifespan for load torque, maximum speed, and acceleration / deceleration, and output suggestions for items where the score is greater than or equal to a reference value.

[0043] The auxiliary storage unit 160 stores component DB 161, lifespan information DB 162, and recommendations DB 163. Component DB 161 stores the selectable products and their specifications for various components. In this example, component DB 161 includes a motor DB 161A, a gearbox DB 161B, and an amplifier DB 161C. Motor DB 161A, for example... Figure 3 As shown, for each "motor," data indicating the model, maximum output, maximum speed, maximum torque, and fault level are stored. The DB161B reducer, for example... Figure 4 As shown, for each "gearbox," data indicating the model, reduction ratio, maximum input torque, maximum input speed, and fault level are stored. The amplifier DB 161C, for example... Figure 5 As shown, for each amplifier, data indicating model, maximum output, maximum voltage, maximum current, and fault level are stored. Fault level is an indicator of failure rate; A has the highest failure rate, B has a lower failure rate than A, C has a lower failure rate than B, and D has the lowest failure rate. Lifespan information DB 162 stores the lifespan information of the components contained in component DB161. Lifespan information DB 162, as an example, regarding a "gearbox," such as... Figure 6 As shown, data representing the relationship between the maximum load corresponding to the operating mode and the lifespan, including the safe period, rated period, and limit period, is stored. In this example, the change in the rated period when the maximum load changes is greater than the change in the safe period when the maximum load changes. The change in the limit period when the maximum load changes is greater than the change in the rated period when the maximum load changes. Therefore, even if the maximum load is reduced, the safe period is not significantly extended, but if the maximum load is reduced, the rated period is extended much more compared to the safe period. Furthermore, if the maximum load is reduced, the limit period is extended even more compared to the rated period. DB 163 recommends storing suggested data for each item that affects the safe period, rated period, and limit period.

[0044] Next, the component selection assistance process performed by the component selection assistance device 100 with the above structure will be described.

[0045] In response to a user-issued instruction to begin processing, component selection auxiliary device 100 initiates. Figure 7The component selection assistance process is shown below. An example of calculating the lifespan of a component by applying the component selection assistance process performed by the component selection assistance device 100 to a "ball screw unit" as an example of a device will be described below. In this example, the "ball screw unit" includes: a worktable; a ball screw that reciprocates the worktable; an "electric motor" that rotates the threaded shaft of the ball screw; a "reducer" that converts the rotation of the "electric motor" and transmits it to the threaded shaft of the ball screw; and an amplifier that controls the rotation of the "electric motor". The "reducer," which has a high probability of failure, is selected as the first component for predicting the usable period, and the "electric motor" is selected as the second component used in combination with the first component.

[0046] If the auxiliary processing is selected to begin, the element receiving unit 111 receives the data representing the mechanical element of the "ball screw unit" input from the input unit 120 (step S101) and stores it in the main storage unit 150. Here, the mechanical element of the "ball screw unit" is, for example... Figure 8 As shown, it includes one or more of the following items: the mass of the worktable, the load mass, the load reaction force, the ball screw pitch, the ball screw diameter, the ball screw length, or the load moment of inertia of the ball screw.

[0047] Next, the operation mode receiving unit 112 receives the display input by the user from the input unit 120. Figure 9 The data of the operating mode shown is received (step S102) and stored in the main storage unit 150. Here, the operating mode includes the feed amount of the worktable relative to the "ball screw unit" over time.

[0048] Next, the component selection unit 113 calculates the load capacity required to operate the "ball screw unit" (step S103). Specifically, firstly, based on the mechanical elements of the "ball screw unit" received by the element receiving unit 111—namely, the mass of the worktable, the load mass, the load reaction force, the ball screw pitch, the ball screw diameter, the ball screw length, or the load moment of inertia of the ball screw—the moment of inertia about the threaded axis of the ball screw is calculated. Next, based on the moment of inertia about the threaded axis and the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit 112, the load capacity required to operate the "ball screw unit" in that operating mode is calculated. The load capacity includes the torque required to rotate the threaded axis of the ball screw.

[0049] Next, the component selection unit 113 selects a "motor" from motor DB 161A, a "reducer" from reducer DB 161B, and an amplifier from amplifier DB 161C based on the load capacity calculated in step S103 (step S104). Here, the load capacity calculated in step S103 can be output as the selection condition for the "motor". The load capacity can be either continuous effective torque or maximum torque as the selection condition, or both can be used as the selection condition. In addition, if there are multiple "motors" in the conditions, multiple can be selected. Alternatively, additional conditions for the "motor" can be input to further filter the selection results from the "motors" that match the selection conditions. The additional conditions for the "motor" include the temperature range in which it can operate. In addition, as a "reducer", a reducer corresponding to the torque that the selected "motor" can output is selected. In addition, as an amplifier, an amplifier that matches the output of the selected "motor" is selected. Similar to the "motor", if there are multiple amplifiers in the conditions, multiple can be selected. Additionally, additional amplifier conditions can be input to further filter the selected results from amplifiers that match the motor output. These additional amplifier conditions include whether the amplifier corresponds to a network. Furthermore, the component selection unit 113... Figure 10 As shown, the model names of the "motor", "gear reducer", and "amplifier" are displayed as the selection results. When multiple "motors", "gear reducers", and "amplifiers" are selected, they can be displayed in a table format.

[0050] Next, the lifespan calculation unit 114 calculates the lifespan of the component with the highest failure rate among the components included in the "ball screw unit," i.e., the period until failure occurs (step S105). The lifespan calculation unit 114 refers to the failure levels stored in the motor DB 161A, the reducer DB 161B, and the amplifier DB 161C to calculate the period until the "reducer," with the highest failure level, fails. In this example, the lifespan calculation unit 114 refers to the failure levels stored in the motor DB 161A, the reducer DB 161B, and the amplifier DB 161C. Figure 6 The data stored in the lifespan information DB162, based on the load capacity obtained in step S103 and the operating mode input in step S102, calculates the period until the "reducer," a component included in the "ball screw unit," fails. Furthermore, during the period until the failure occurs, as... Figure 6As shown, this includes the safe period, the rated period, and the limit period. The rated period is the period during which components can be replaced when precursors to a failure are detected, and the downtime incurred by component replacement and the downtime caused by the failure can be suppressed; in this example, it is the period with a failure probability of less than or equal to 10%. The limit period is the period during which the costs associated with component replacement can be suppressed by using the component until a failure occurs; in this example, the failure probability is greater than or equal to 80%.

[0051] In detail, the lifespan calculation unit 114 calculates the maximum load L1 based on the load capacity obtained in step S103 and the operating mode input in step S102. Additionally, the lifespan calculation unit 114 refers to... Figure 6 The data shown represents the lifespan of the reducer. Under the condition of operating at the maximum load L1, the safe period T11, the rated period T12, and the limiting period T13 are determined.

[0052] Next, the lifespan calculation unit 114, as follows Figure 10 As shown, the results calculated in step S105, namely the safe period T11, rated period T12, and limit period T13 of the "reducer", are displayed (step S106). Thus, the user can be informed of the lifespan of the "reducer" that is suitable for the mechanical elements and operating mode of the input "ball screw unit".

[0053] Next, it is recommended that output section 115, such as Figure 11 As shown, if the user clicks the suggestion button 200 displayed as an icon, suggestions related to lifespan extension are displayed (step S107). Specifically, the suggestion output unit 115 calculates the ratio of the output, speed, or load when the device is operated by the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit 112 to the pre-stored maximum allowable output, maximum speed, or maximum load of the component. Based on items where the calculated ratio is greater than or equal to a reference value, and referring to suggestion DB 163, the suggestion output unit 115 outputs data representing suggestions. As an example, the suggestion output unit 115 displays suggestions that can extend lifespan by reducing load torque, maximum speed, smoothing acceleration and deceleration, and suppressing generated torque.

[0054] Next, the suggestion output unit 115 determines whether an end instruction has been received (step S108). If the user inputs a suggestion to further modify the mechanical elements or operating mode of the "ball screw unit", the non-end component selection auxiliary processing is performed. Therefore, the suggestion output unit 115 determines that no end instruction has been received (step S108; No), returns to step S101, receives the user's modified mechanical elements or operating mode of the "ball screw unit", and repeats steps S101 to S108.

[0055] As an example, if a user observes a suggestion to smooth acceleration and deceleration without altering the mechanical elements of the "ball screw unit" and wishes to modify the operating mode, in order to smooth acceleration, such as... Figure 12 As shown, the operating mode is changed so that it starts moving smoothly at the beginning of the table feed, moves at a constant speed in the middle, and stops smoothly. This reduces the load torque. The user inputs data representing the modified operating mode in step S102. Furthermore, in this example, only the mechanical elements whose operating modes are changed are input using the same data in step S101. Then, in step S103, the component selection unit 113 calculates the load capacity required to operate the "ball screw unit" based on the modified operating mode. Next, in step S104, the component selection unit 113 selects the "motor," "gearbox," and amplifier based on the calculated load capacity. Next, in step S105, the life calculation unit 114 calculates the life of the "gearbox" based on the modified operating mode. In this case, the life calculation unit 114 calculates the maximum load L2 based on the load capacity and the modified operating mode. When operating at the maximum load L2, refer to... Figure 6 The data shown is used to calculate the safe period T21, rated period T22, and limit period T23. Since the maximum load L2 is less than the maximum load L1, the safe period T21, rated period T22, and limit period T23 are larger than the safe period T11, rated period T12, and limit period T13. Next, in step S106, the life calculation unit 114 displays the calculated safe period T21, rated period T22, and limit period T23 for the "reducer". If the user determines that any one of the safe period T21, rated period T22, or limit period T23 is sufficient, the user selects the "reducer" and ends the component selection assistance process (step S108; Yes). Alternatively, the user can display the suggestion again in step S107, return to step S101, and input the corrected mechanical elements or operating mode of the "ball screw unit" based on the suggestion, repeating steps S101 to S108.

[0056] The component selection aid 100, with the above-described structure, can provide the user with information about a first period during which the first component can be used with a first probability of damage and a second period during which the first component can be used with a second probability of damage that is higher than the first probability of damage, in a device obtained by combining the first component and the second component. Specifically, in a ball screw unit having a "motor" and a "reducer", the safe period, rated period, and limit period of the "reducer", which is the first component, are calculated, and the safe period, rated period, and limit period are provided to the user. Therefore, the component selection aid 100 can inform the user of the lifespan of the "reducer" that is suitable for the mechanical elements and operating mode of the "ball screw unit" that is the design target. Therefore, by using the component selection aid 100, the user can understand the failure period and component replacement period under the desired usage method, and can consider the cost of downtime. In addition, the component selection aid 100 can display suggestions related to lifespan extension through the suggestion output unit 115. Based on this suggestion, the user can modify the mechanical elements or operating mode of the "ball screw unit". If the component selection assist device 100 receives the modified mechanical elements or operating mode of the "ball screw unit", it can provide the user with the safe period, rated period, and limit period based on the modified mechanical elements or operating mode. Thus, the user can modify the mechanical elements or operating mode to obtain a more preferred mechanical element or operating mode for the "ball screw unit".

[0057] (Variation example)

[0058] In the above embodiment, an example of displaying a suggestion for extending service life using the component selection assist device 100 has been described. Alternatively, instead of displaying the suggestion, the component selection assist device 100 may... Figure 13As shown, a recommended operation mode calculation unit 116 is included to calculate recommended operation modes. The recommended operation mode calculation unit determines items that affect the safe period, rated period, or limit period, and based on these items, calculates recommended operation modes that can extend at least one of the safe period, rated period, or limit period calculated by the lifespan calculation unit 114. Specifically, the recommended operation mode calculation unit 116 calculates the ratio of the output, speed, or load when the equipment is operated using the operation mode received by the operation mode receiving unit 112 to the maximum allowable output, maximum speed, or maximum load of the component, and determines items whose calculated ratios are greater than or equal to a reference value. Then, based on items greater than or equal to the reference value, a recommended operation mode is calculated. If the maximum load is greater than or equal to the reference value, a region in the operation mode where the load is greater than or equal to the reference value is determined, and in the determined region, a recommended operation mode with a smaller maximum load is calculated by correcting to a mode where the load is less than or equal to the reference value. In the original operation mode such as Figure 9 In the case shown, the recommended operation mode calculation unit 116 determines the stop period when the feed rate does not change and the movement period when the feed rate changes. The recommended operation mode calculation unit 116, as shown... Figure 14 As shown, a constant acceleration curve is calculated for the determined movement period. Using this calculated constant acceleration curve, a recommended operating mode that smooths out acceleration and deceleration is determined. In this recommended operating mode, the feed rate changes smoothly, and... Figure 9 Compared to the operating modes shown, the maximum load is smaller. By setting it as described above, a recommended operating mode with a longer downtime and component replacement period can be obtained under the user's desired usage method.

[0059] Additionally, the component selection auxiliary device 100 may include: a target life receiving unit 117 that receives data representing the target life required for the first component; and a satisfactory operation mode calculation unit 118 that calculates satisfactory operation modes that satisfy the target life. The satisfactory operation mode calculation unit 118 determines items that affect the safe period, rated period, or limit period until the first component fails, and calculates satisfactory operation modes that satisfy the target life based on these items and the target life. Specifically, the target life receiving unit 117 receives data representing the category and period of the safe period, rated period, or limit period as the target life. As an example, the rated period T3 is received as the target life. Furthermore, the satisfactory operation mode calculation unit 118 calculates the ratio of the output, speed, or load when the equipment is operated using the operation mode received by the operation mode receiving unit 112 to the maximum output, maximum speed, or maximum load allowed by the component, and determines items whose calculated ratio is greater than or equal to a reference value. As an example, the load is determined as an item greater than or equal to a reference value. Next, the satisfactory operation mode calculation unit 118 refers to the... Figure 15 The lifespan data of the first component shown is used to calculate the load L3 to meet the rated period T3. Next, the operating mode calculation unit 118 calculates the operating mode that is reduced compared to the load L3 and uses it as the operating mode. By setting it in the above manner, it is possible to obtain the operating mode that meets the replacement period of the component as desired by the user.

[0060] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example of selecting a first component as a candidate by the component selection unit 113 was described. The component selection assist device 100 can select multiple first components as candidates, and calculate the lifespan of each first component. In this case, the component selection unit 113 selects multiple first components as candidates. In addition, the lifespan calculation unit 114 is based on the multiple first components and second components selected by the component selection unit 113 and the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit 112, such as... Figure 16 As shown, for each first component, i.e., the "gear reducer," the safe period, rated period, or limit period until the first component fails is calculated. By configuring it in the above manner, the user can compare multiple first components, i.e., "gear reducers," and select the appropriate component.

[0061] Alternatively, the component selection unit 113 can also select from multiple second components as candidates. In this case, the lifespan calculation unit 114 calculates the lifespan based on the first component, the multiple second components, and the operating mode, such as... Figure 17As shown, for each second component, namely the "motor," the safe period, rated period, or limit period until the first component fails is calculated. By configuring it in the above manner, the user can compare multiple second components, namely "motors," and select the appropriate component. By changing the "motor" as a second component, it is effective even if the lifespan of the "gearbox" as a first component changes.

[0062] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, an example was described whereby the component selection unit 113 selects a component from the component group stored in the component DB 161 of the auxiliary storage unit 160. The component selection unit 113 can access an external database containing data representing a first component or a second component via a communication line to obtain that data. By configuring it in this way, the component selection unit 113 can select components that are not stored in the component DB 161. In this case, the data representing the first component or the second component includes data representing the elements of the component and data representing the lifespan of the component.

[0063] Furthermore, in the component selection assist device 100 of the above embodiment, the lifetime information DB 162 is represented... Figure 6 An example illustrating the storage of data relating maximum load to safe period, rated period, and limit period is given. Lifespan information DB 162 can store data that can be used to calculate the period during which the first component can be used. As an example, lifespan information DB 162 can store rated lifespan, maximum speed, rated speed, and rated load, and lifespan calculation unit 114 can calculate the safe period, rated period, and limit period based on the speed or load obtained from the rated lifespan, maximum speed, rated speed, rated load, and operating mode.

[0064] Furthermore, in the above embodiments, a "ball screw unit" is described as an example of a device, a "reducer" is described as the first component that predicts the period of use, and an "electric motor" is described as the second component used in combination with the first component. The device, the first component, and the second component are not limited to these examples and can be any device, the first component, and the second component.

[0065] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the component selection unit 113 selects the first component and the second component based on the device elements received by the element receiving unit 111 and the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit 112. The component selection unit 113 can receive data indicating the components selected by the user from the component group stored in the component DB 161, and select the components selected by the user as the first component and the second component. By configuring it in the above manner, the user can select components that are readily available.

[0066] In the above embodiment, an example of performing component selection assistance processing by the component selection assistance device 100 has been described. The component selection assistance processing can also be performed by... Figure 18 The component selection assistance system 300 shown is executed. The component selection assistance system 300 includes: a server 310, which is connected to the component selection assistance device 100 to send and receive data; and a terminal device 320, which can access the server 310. The server 310 is a local server or a cloud server. The server 310 receives data input from the terminal device 320 via a communication line, outputs the received data to the component selection assistance device 100, and outputs data received from the component selection assistance device 100 to the terminal device 320. The terminal device 320 includes a typical computer. The communication line includes the Internet or an intranet. In this case, the server 310 receives data required for selecting the first and second components and data indicating the operating mode from the terminal device 320 via the communication line. Additionally, the server 310 outputs data indicating the first and second periods to the terminal device 320 via the communication line.

[0067] In the above embodiment, the control unit 110 of the component selection auxiliary device 100 is shown to have a structure with one processor 140, but multiple processors 140 may also cooperate to perform the above functions. In addition, the control unit 110 may also have multiple main storage units 150 and auxiliary storage units 160.

[0068] The component selection assist device 100 and the component selection assist system 300 do not depend on a dedicated system and can be implemented using a conventional computer system. For example, the computer program used to perform the above actions can be stored on a computer-readable recording medium (floppy disk, CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read-Only Memory), DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disc Read-Only Memory), etc.) and distributed, and the computer program can be installed on a computer, thereby constituting the component selection assist device 100 that performs the above processing. Alternatively, the computer program can be stored in the storage device of a server device on a communication network and downloaded by a conventional computer system, thereby constituting the component selection assist device 100 or the component selection assist system 300.

[0069] Alternatively, in cases where the functions of the component selection auxiliary device 100 and the component selection auxiliary system 300 are shared by the OS and the application, or implemented through the coordinated operation of the OS and the application, only the application portion may be stored in the recording medium or storage device.

[0070] Alternatively, a computer program can be superimposed on a carrier wave and transmitted via a communication network. For example, the computer program can be announced on a bulletin board system (BBS) on a communication network and transmitted via the communication network. Furthermore, the computer program can be launched and executed under the control of the operating system, just like other applications, thereby performing the aforementioned processing.

[0071] This invention does not depart from its broad spirit and scope, and various embodiments and modifications are possible. Furthermore, the above embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and do not limit the scope of the invention. That is, the scope of the invention is not defined by the embodiments, but by the claims. Moreover, various modifications implemented within the scope of the claims and their equivalents are considered to be within the scope of the invention.

[0072] Explanation of the label

[0073] 100…Component selection auxiliary device, 110…Control unit, 111…Element receiving unit, 112…Operating mode receiving unit, 113…Component selection unit, 114…Life calculation unit, 115…Suggestion output unit, 116…Recommended operating mode calculation unit, 117…Target life receiving unit, 118…Satisfactory operating mode calculation unit, 120…Input unit, 130…Output unit, 140…Processor, 150…Main storage unit, 160…Auxiliary storage unit, 161…Component DB, 161A…Motor DB, 161B…Gearbox DB, 161C…Amplifier DB, 162…Life information DB, DB 163…Suggestion, 170…Bus, 200…Suggestion button, 300…Component selection auxiliary system, 310…Server, 320…Terminal device

Claims

1. A program product that enables a computer to function as a component of: The component selection unit selects data representing at least one first component and at least one second component used in combination with the first component, which indicates the prediction of the period of use. The operation mode receiving unit receives data indicating the operation mode of the device obtained by combining the first component and the second component. A lifespan calculation unit, based on pre-stored data representing the relationship between the lifespan of the first component and the operating mode, and the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit, calculates, in a device obtained by combining the first component and the second component, a first period during which the first component can be used with a first damage probability and a second period during which the first component can be used with a second damage probability that is higher than the first damage probability; and The output unit outputs data representing the first period and the second period, calculated by the lifetime calculation unit, to a display device or an external device. The component selection unit selects from a plurality of the first components as candidates. The lifespan calculation unit calculates the first period and the second period until the first component fails, based on the plurality of first components and second components selected by the component selection unit and the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit.

2. The program product according to claim 1, wherein, The component selection unit selects from a plurality of the second components as candidates. The lifespan calculation unit calculates the first period and the second period until the first component fails, based on the first component and multiple second components selected by the component selection unit and the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit, for each of the second components.

3. The program product according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the computer also functions as a suggestion output unit, which determines items that would affect the first period or the second period until the first component fails when the device is operated by the operating mode, and based on the items, outputs data pre-stored for each item, representing suggestions for extending the first period or the second period, to a display device or external device.

4. The program product according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the computer also functions as a recommended operating mode calculation unit, which determines an item that would affect the first period or the second period until the first component fails when the device is operated by the operating mode, and based on the item, modifies the mode to a load less than or equal to the reference value if the load indicated by the item is greater than or equal to the reference value, thereby calculating a recommended operating mode that can extend at least one of the first period or the second period.

5. The program product according to claim 1 or 2, which causes the computer to also function as a component of: A target life receiving unit that receives data representing the target life required for the first component; and The operation mode calculation unit determines items that would affect the first or second period until the first component fails when the device is operated by the operation mode, and calculates the operation mode that satisfies the target life based on the items and the target life.

6. The program product according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The component selection unit obtains data from the first component or the second component via an external device or communication line.

7. A component selection auxiliary device, comprising: The component selection unit selects data representing at least one first component and at least one second component used in combination with the first component, which indicates the prediction of the period of use. The operation mode receiving unit receives data indicating the operation mode of the device obtained by combining the first component and the second component. A lifespan calculation unit, based on pre-stored data representing the relationship between the lifespan of the first component and the operating mode, and the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit, calculates, in a device obtained by combining the first component and the second component, a first period during which the first component can be used with a first damage probability and a second period during which the first component can be used with a second damage probability that is higher than the first damage probability; and The output unit outputs data representing the first period and the second period, calculated by the lifetime calculation unit, to a display device or an external device. The component selection unit selects from a plurality of the first components as candidates. The lifespan calculation unit calculates the first period and the second period until the first component fails, based on the plurality of first components and second components selected by the component selection unit and the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving unit.

8. A component selection auxiliary system, comprising: The component selection auxiliary device as described in claim 7; A server, which is connected to the component selection auxiliary device to transmit and receive data; and A terminal device that can access the server.

9. A component selection auxiliary method, comprising the following steps: The component selection step involves selecting data representing at least one first component and at least one second component used in combination with the first component, which are objects that are predicted to be usable for a certain period of time. The operation mode receiving step involves receiving data representing the operation mode of the device obtained by combining the first component and the second component. The lifespan calculation step, based on pre-stored data representing the relationship between the lifespan of the first component and the operating mode, and the operating mode received through the operating mode receiving step, calculates, in the device obtained by combining the first component and the second component, a first period during which the first component can be used with a first damage probability and a second period during which the first component can be used with a second damage probability that is higher than the first damage probability. as well as The output step involves outputting the data representing the first period and the second period, calculated through the lifetime calculation step, to a display device or an external device. In the component selection step, multiple first components are selected as candidates. In the lifespan calculation step, based on the plurality of first components and second components selected by the component selection step and the operating mode received by the operating mode receiving step, the first period and the second period until the first component fails are calculated for each of the first components.

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