Information processing apparatus, computer program, and information processing method and estimation system

Abstract

In an information processing apparatus including a processor, the processor performs the following processing: causing a display device to display a model (Md) of an object, based on an instruction of a user with respect to the displayed model (Md), setting a geometric tolerance of an object site in the object as at least a part of attribute information of the object, with respect to the setting of the geometric tolerance, in a case where a specific geometric tolerance for which a reference is required is set, selecting a setting process of either one of a first setting process and a second setting process to set the geometric tolerance, in the first setting process, the reference is set first, and then the specific geometric tolerance is set, and the reference is associated with the specific geometric tolerance, in the second setting process, the specific geometric tolerance is set first, and then the reference is set, and the reference is associated with the specific geometric tolerance.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an information processing device capable of setting geometric tolerances related to an object. Background Technology

[0002] As an information processing device capable of attaching attribute information such as geometric tolerances of an object to a model of the object, there is a known information processing device that first sets a reference, and then sets geometric tolerances in association with the set reference (for example, see Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2006-221572

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2005-352678 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0008] Geometric tolerances can be categorized into those requiring a reference datum and those not requiring one. For example, geometric tolerances such as parallelism, coaxiality, right angle, angularity, and circular runout—in other words, those classified as pose tolerances, positional tolerances, and runout tolerances—require specifying which surface or line should be used as the reference datum, corresponding to the object part where the tolerance is to be set; these are examples of the former. On the other hand, geometric tolerances classified as form tolerances such as flatness, straightness, roundness, and profile tolerances allow for the determination of whether the object part itself meets the tolerance; these are examples of the latter. Conventional information processing devices require setting a reference datum before setting a geometric tolerance that requires one. Therefore, the user must determine which type of geometric tolerance is being set and perform the setting operation separately depending on whether a reference datum is required. If, for example, a geometric tolerance requiring a reference datum is set beforehand, undesirable situations may arise, such as needing to redo the setting operation from the reference datum. Depending on the user, even for geometric tolerances requiring a reference, they sometimes prefer to first specify the object location for which the geometric tolerance needs to be set, the type of tolerance (coaxiality, parallelism, etc.), and the tolerance value, and then specify the reference. This leaves room for improvement in the ease of use of conventional information processing devices regarding the setting of geometric tolerances requiring a reference.

[0009] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device or the like that improves the ease of use in relation to the setting of geometric tolerances.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] One aspect of the present invention relates to an information processing apparatus comprising a processor, wherein the processor performs the following processes: causing a display device to display a model of an object; based on an instruction from a user relating to the model displayed on the display device, setting a geometric tolerance of an object portion of the object as at least a portion of the object's attribute information; regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, in the case of setting a specific geometric tolerance requiring a reference, selecting a setting process of either a first setting process or a second setting process to set the geometric tolerance; in the first setting process, first setting the reference, then setting the specific geometric tolerance, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance; in the second setting process, first setting the specific geometric tolerance, then setting the reference, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance.

[0012] One aspect of the present invention relates to a computer program configured to cause a computer processor to perform the following processes: causing a display device to display a model of an object; based on instructions from a user relating to the model displayed on the display device, setting geometric tolerances of object portions in the object as at least a portion of the object's attribute information; regarding the setting of the geometric tolerances, in the case of setting a specific geometric tolerance requiring a reference, selecting a setting process of either a first setting process or a second setting process to set the geometric tolerances; in the first setting process, first setting the reference, then setting the specific geometric tolerances, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerances; in the second setting process, first setting the specific geometric tolerances, then setting the reference, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerances.

[0013] One aspect of the present invention relates to an information processing method that causes a computer processor to perform the following processing: displaying a model of an object on a display device; setting geometric tolerances of object parts in the object as at least a portion of the object's attribute information based on user instructions relating to the model displayed on the display device; regarding the setting of the geometric tolerances, in the case of setting a specific geometric tolerance requiring a reference, selecting a setting process of either a first setting process or a second setting process to set the geometric tolerances; in the first setting process, setting the reference first, then setting the specific geometric tolerances, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerances; in the second setting process, setting the specific geometric tolerances first, then setting the reference, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerances.

[0014] An estimation system according to one aspect of the present invention includes a processor that performs the following processes: acquiring model data describing an object; displaying a model of the object on a display device based on the model data; setting attribute information of the object based on user instructions relating to the model displayed on the display device; generating an estimation required to provide the object based on the model data and the attribute information and presenting it to the user; when setting the attribute information, setting geometric tolerances of object parts in the object as at least a portion of the attribute information based on user instructions; regarding the setting of the geometric tolerances, when setting a specific geometric tolerance requiring a reference, selecting a setting process of either a first setting process or a second setting process to set the geometric tolerances; in the first setting process, first setting the reference, then setting the specific geometric tolerances, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerances; in the second setting process, first setting the specific geometric tolerances, then setting the reference, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerances. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the schematic structure of an ordering assistance system that includes an estimation system according to one aspect of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2 It is shown Figure 1 A diagram showing the general structure of the control system for servers and user terminals.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process by which a server performs a process in a manner associated with the estimation of the manufactured parts.

[0018] Figure 4 This is an example of a settings screen displayed when setting estimation conditions.

[0019] Figure 5 It is shown in Figure 4 This is an example of the main area displayed when the baseline setting button is pressed in the settings screen.

[0020] Figure 6 It shows the continuation Figure 6 The following is an example diagram of the main area.

[0021] Figure 7 It is shown in Figure 6 This is an example of the main area displayed when the geometric tolerance setting button is pressed.

[0022] Figure 8 It shows the continuation Figure 7The following is an example diagram of the main area.

[0023] Figure 9 It is shown in Figure 8 The image shows an example of the main area displayed when the required geometric tolerances for the reference are set.

[0024] Figure 10 It is shown in Figure 9 The image shows an example of the main area displayed under the baseline condition.

[0025] Figure 11 It shows the continuation Figure 10 The following is an example diagram of the main area.

[0026] Figure 12 It is shown in Figure 4 The diagram shows other examples of the main area displayed when the geometric tolerance setting button is pressed in the settings screen.

[0027] Figure 13 It shows the continuation Figure 12 The following is an example diagram of the main area.

[0028] Figure 14 It is shown in Figure 12 The image shows an example of the main area displayed when the required geometric tolerances for the reference are set.

[0029] Figure 15 It is shown in Figure 14 The image shows an example of the main area displayed under the baseline settings.

[0030] Figure 16 It shows the continuation Figure 15 The following is an example diagram of the main area.

[0031] Figure 17 It is shown in Figure 16 The image shows an example of the main area displayed when returning to the geometric tolerance settings.

[0032] Figure 18 It is shown in Figure 17 The image shows an example of the main area displayed under the baseline condition.

[0033] Figure 19 It is shown in Figure 18 This is an example of the main area displayed when the update button is pressed.

[0034] Figure 20 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the geometric tolerance setting process performed by the server's estimation processing unit.

[0035] Figure 21 Is following Figure 20 The following flowchart. Detailed Implementation

[0036] Hereinafter, one aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 1 This illustrates one method of constructing an ordering assistance system for a user to order a machined part, exemplified by an object. The ordering assistance system is a system for assisting a user in ordering machined parts, and includes the information processing apparatus and estimation system described in this embodiment of the invention. The machined part processed by the ordering assistance system only needs to have geometric tolerances set as at least a portion of its attribute information; for example, it can be an article manufactured individually by various manufacturing methods such as sheet metal processing and machining, or by a suitable combination of these manufacturing methods. The intended use of the machined part can also be an article for a suitable purpose. Furthermore, as long as geometric tolerances need to be set, the object is not limited to the machined part and can be any suitable article.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, the ordering assistance system 1 is configured as a client-server system including a server 2 and a user terminal 4 as a client. The user terminal 4 is connected to the server 2 via a network 3 in a communicative manner. The user terminal 4 may include, for example, various information communication devices capable of network connection, such as a fixed PC (short for personal computer) 4a, a laptop PC 4b, or an information communication terminal 4c such as a smartphone.

[0038] Server 2 provides various services to user terminal 4 required by the user for ordering processed parts. As an example, server 2 is configured as a web server that displays various web pages on user terminal 4 based on access from user terminal 4. Server 2 can be configured to collaborate via network 3 with a processing system, manufacturing management system, etc., that handles various processes such as the arrangement of manufacturing and delivery of processed parts required for user orders, and requests for payment. Alternatively, the ordering support system 1 itself may also include processing functions such as receiving and request processing.

[0039] Figure 2 The schematic structure of the control system for server 2 and user terminal 4 is shown. Server 2 includes a control unit 10 and an external storage device 11. The control unit 10 is configured as a computer unit combining a microprocessor and peripheral devices such as internal storage required for its operation. The external storage device 11 uses non-volatile storage media such as magnetic storage media and flash memory to store various types of information. However, at least a portion of the external storage device 11 is not limited to the example where it is set as part of server 2; it can also be set as a database server cooperating with server 2.

[0040] The external storage device 11 contains a computer program Pg for enabling the control device 10 to perform various processes required for ordering and machining parts. The control device 10 reads and executes the computer program Pg, thereby setting up a model data acquisition unit 12, an estimation processing unit 13, and an order processing unit 14 in the control device 10 as a logic device implemented through a combination of computer hardware and software.

[0041] The model data acquisition unit 12 performs the process of acquiring model data Dm that describes the processed part. For example, the model data acquisition unit 12 acquires the model data Dm from the user terminal 4 and stores it in the external storage device 11 as needed. Alternatively, the model data acquisition unit 12 acquires the model data Dm by reading it from the external storage device 11. The model data Dm can be stored in the external storage device 11, for example, by associating each piece of model data with unique model identification information, and the acquisition of the model data Dm from the external storage device 11 can be performed by specifying the model identification information. Furthermore, the model data Dm can be a 3D model or a 2D model.

[0042] The estimation processing unit 13 performs the following processes: generating an estimate required to provide the user with the machining part corresponding to the model data Dm, and presenting it to the user. The estimation processing unit 13 performs various processes required to generate the estimate of the machining part and present it to the user. For example, based on the user's instructions, the estimation processing unit 13 sets the estimation conditions for the machining part, generates estimation condition data Dc describing these estimation conditions, and stores the estimation condition data Dc in the external storage device 11 as needed, associating it with the model data Dm. The setting of the estimation conditions will be explained later. Additionally, the estimation processing unit 13 generates estimation data De that records the generated estimation content and stores it in the external storage device 11 as needed. The estimation condition data Dc and estimation data De can also be managed in a way that associates them with appropriate identification information. Furthermore, the model data Dm, estimation condition data Dc, and estimation data De can be managed by associating them with each other, or they can be managed by storing them in the same data.

[0043] The order processing unit 14 performs processing corresponding to orders for processed parts from users. For example, the order processing unit 14 provides various information required for manufacturing and distributing the processed parts ordered by users to collaborative destinations such as the receiving processing system and the manufacturing management system. Alternatively, the order processing unit 14 may also process the manufacturing and distribution arrangements of the ordered processed parts.

[0044] Next, refer to Figure 3Here is an example of the general process of the processing performed by server 2 in relation to the estimation of a machining part. When a user requests an estimation of a machining part via user terminal 4, firstly, the model data acquisition unit 12 of control device 10 requests the upload of model data Dm. When the user operates user terminal 4 according to the request to upload model data Dm of the machining part to be estimated, model data acquisition unit 12 acquires the model data Dm (step S1). In the case of generating an estimation using the already uploaded model data Dm, the user can also specify model data Dm, and the specified model data Dm can be acquired from external storage device 11. In addition, along with the upload of model data Dm, the model data Dm can be analyzed to perform determination processing such as whether the machining part corresponding to model data Dm can be machined. Model data acquisition unit 12 functions as an example of an acquisition unit that acquires model data describing the object by acquiring model data Dm.

[0045] When model data Dm is acquired, the estimation processing unit 13 sets estimation conditions related to the machined part corresponding to the model data Dm based on the user's instructions (step S2). The set estimation conditions are recorded in estimation condition data Dc and stored in external storage device 11 as needed. In the process of setting estimation conditions, for example, processes such as setting the number of machined parts (step S2-1), setting the material and surface treatment (step S2-2), setting dimensional tolerances (step S2-3), and setting geometric tolerances (step S2-4) can be selectively performed based on the user's instructions to set various matters required for generating the estimation. The matters included in the estimation conditions, such as material, surface treatment, dimensional tolerances, and geometric tolerances, are examples of attribute information set as manufacturing conditions for the machined part that the user wishes to provide. An example of the specific process for setting geometric tolerances will be described later.

[0046] When estimation conditions are set, the estimation processing unit 13 generates an estimate of the processed part based on the model data Dm and the estimation condition data Dc, and presents the generated estimate to the user via the display device 22 of the user terminal 4 (step S3). If the user wishes to change the estimate, the processing returns to the setting of the estimation conditions. When the user approves the estimate and instructs to order the processed part, the order processing unit 14 performs the processing required to order the processed part (step S4). The estimation processing unit 13 functions as an example of a setting unit by setting the attribute information of the object as at least a part of the estimation conditions, generating an estimate of the processed part, for example, based on the acquired model data and the set attribute information, and presenting it to the user, thereby functioning as an example of an estimation presentation unit.

[0047] Next, refer to Figures 4-19The illustrated user interface screen serves as an example of the process by which the estimation processing unit 13 sets geometric tolerances. Furthermore, Figures 4-19 The images displayed on the display device 22 of the user terminal 4 are all based on information from the server 2.

[0048] Figure 4 This is an example of a settings screen displayed when setting estimation conditions. Figure 4 The setting screen 100 includes: a main area 101, which displays the model Md of the machined part that is the object of estimation; an information display area 102, which displays the processing method, material, etc. set in relation to the machined part; and a tree view area 103, which displays items that can be set as estimation conditions in a tree format. In the main area 101, the model Md of the machined part is displayed and reproduced based on the model data Dm of the machined part that is the object of the estimation conditions. Reference datums and geometric tolerances are set for the machined part, but in this method, the surfaces or lines that are the objects of reference datums and geometric tolerances are specified via the model Md. Hereinafter, for ease of explanation, it will sometimes be described as specifying the surfaces, etc., that are the objects of reference datums and geometric tolerances for the model Md. The estimation processing unit 13 of the server 2 functions as an example of a display control unit that displays the model of the object by displaying the model Md through the display device 22 of the user terminal 4. Hereinafter, it will sometimes be displayed Figure 4 The state of the setting screen 100 is called the initial state related to the setting of the estimation conditions.

[0049] A function selection section 104 is displayed at the top of the main area 101. Furthermore, in... Figure 4 The function selection section 104 is indicated by a dashed line, but the dashed line is not displayed in the actual setting screen 100. In the function selection section 104, for example, multiple function selection buttons corresponding to various functions that can be called from the setting screen 100 are arranged in a left-right direction. The functions that can be called from the function selection section 104 can be appropriately set. However, in this embodiment, the setting process (and...) used for indicating geometric tolerances... Figure 3 The processing corresponding to steps S2-4. For example, the setting indicator elements in the function selection unit 104 include a reference setting button 105 and a geometric tolerance setting button 106. When a predetermined operation is performed on the reference setting button 105, such as a click operation, the processing proceeds to reference setting. When a predetermined operation is performed on the geometric tolerance setting button 106, such as a click operation, the processing proceeds to setting the geometric tolerance.

[0050] A datum is a theoretically accurate geometric reference established to specify the geometric tolerances of a machined part. As mentioned above, for geometric tolerances, there are types of geometric tolerances that require a datum and types that do not. Hereinafter, the type of geometric tolerance requiring a datum will sometimes be referred to as the first type of geometric tolerance, and the type of geometric tolerance not requiring a datum will sometimes be referred to as the second type of geometric tolerance to distinguish them. The first type of geometric tolerance corresponds to the specific geometric tolerance in this invention.

[0051] To set a geometric tolerance regardless of whether it is the first or the second type, it is necessary to define the object part for which the geometric tolerance is set, the type of geometric tolerance, and the tolerance value. When setting the second type of geometric tolerance, setting these parameters is sufficient. However, when setting the first type of geometric tolerance, in addition to defining the object part, type, and tolerance value, a datum must also be specified. In this method, when setting the first type of geometric tolerance, one can choose between a first setting process and a second setting process. In the first setting process, the datum is set first, followed by the geometric tolerance; in the second setting process, the geometric tolerance is set first, followed by the datum. See below for further details. Figures 5-19 The following is an example of a scene to illustrate these setup processes. Furthermore, Figures 5-19 The examples shown are all obtained by enlarging the main part of the main area 101 in the setting screen 100.

[0052] First, an example of setting the first type of geometric tolerance according to the first setting process will be given. Figure 5 This shows an example of the main area 101 displayed when the reference setting button 105 is operated in the setting screen 100. When the reference setting button 105 is operated, the geometric tolerance is set according to the first setting procedure. Figure 5 In the example shown, the user is instructed to click the message box 110 on the surface where the reference should be set. Furthermore, corresponding to the operation of the reference setting button 105, the reference setting button 105 is highlighted in the function selection section 104, while the other setting buttons are grayed out.

[0053] exist Figure 5 In the main area 101, the user can, for example, specify a face on model Md to be set as a reference by clicking. When a face of an object is specified as the reference, the display of the main area 101... Figure 6 The state change. In Figure 6 In the example, the end face Md1 of model Md is selected as the reference, and this end face Md1 is highlighted in a way that distinguishes it from other parts. Figure 6 In the diagram, blank space is used to represent end face Md1, but end face Md1 can also be displayed using a different color than other parts.

[0054] like Figure 6 As shown, during the datum setting stage, a dialog box 120 for selecting a datum symbol is displayed in the main area 101. The dialog box 120 includes a message 121 instructing the selection of a datum symbol, a selection section 122, an update button 123, a geometric tolerance setting button 124, and a cancel button 125. In the selection section 122, as an example of a datum symbol candidate, the letters A, B, etc., are displayed in a drop-down list, allowing selection of any datum symbol. Figure 6 The example shown illustrates the selection of the datum symbol "A" for end face Md1. When the update button 123 is pressed, the datum settings for that time point—namely, the surfaces, lines, etc., that should become the datum, and the datum symbol—are saved as, for example, part of the estimation condition data Dc. When the cancel button 125 is pressed, the current datum settings are discarded, and processing continues... Figure 4 Return to the initial state shown in the settings screen 100.

[0055] In operation Figure 5 In the case of the geometric tolerance setting button 124 in dialog box 120, the process transfers to the geometric tolerance setting. Figure 7 The image shows an example of main region 101 in this case. Figure 7 In the example, a message box 130 is displayed to the user, instructing them to click on the face of the object part for which geometric tolerances are set. Furthermore, in Figure 7 In the example, corresponding to the stage of setting geometric tolerances, the geometric tolerance setting button 106 of the function selection unit 104 is highlighted, while the other setting buttons are grayed out. In addition, a datum index IdA is added to the model Md, which indicates that a datum defined by the datum symbol "A" is set on the end face Md1.

[0056] exist Figure 7 In the main area 101, the user can, for example, specify a face on model Md as an object part for setting geometric tolerances by clicking. When any face is specified, the display of the main area 101... Figure 8 The state change. In Figure 8 In the example, the outer peripheral surface Md2 of the shaft portion of model Md is designated as the object area for setting geometric tolerances, and this outer peripheral surface Md2 is highlighted in a way that distinguishes it from other areas. Figure 8 In the diagram, the outer peripheral surface Md2 is represented by a blank space, but the outer peripheral surface Md2 can also be displayed using a different color than other parts.

[0057] like Figure 8As shown, during the stage of setting geometric tolerances, a dialog box 140 for setting geometric tolerances is displayed in the main area 101. The dialog box 140 includes a geometric tolerance setting section 141, an update button 142, a reference setting button 143, a setting object change button 144, and a cancel button 145. The geometric tolerance setting section 141 is used to set the geometric tolerances in... Figure 7 The stage is set as the operation part related to the geometric tolerance of the object part's surface.

[0058] The geometric tolerance setting unit 141 includes a tolerance symbol selection unit 141a, a tolerance value setting unit 141b, datum selection units 141c and 141d, a tolerance symbol addition button 141e, and a deletion button 141f. In the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a, a drop-down menu displays tolerance symbols uniquely determined for each type of geometric tolerance. By selecting any tolerance symbol in the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a, the type of geometric tolerance to be set is specified. In the tolerance value setting unit 141b, a tolerance value related to the geometric tolerance of the type selected by the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a can be specified. The datum selection units 141c and 141d allow selection of a set datum as the datum related to the geometric tolerance of the type selected by the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a. By providing two datum selection units 141c and 141d, two datums can be selected in a manner related to a single object location. When the tolerance symbol addition button 141e is operated, the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a, the tolerance value setting unit 141b, and the datum selection units 141c and 141d are newly added to the geometric tolerance setting unit 141. Thus, other geometric tolerances can be added and set for the same object part of model Md. When the delete button 141f is operated, the settings of the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a, the tolerance value setting unit 141b, and the datum selection units 141c and 141d arranged to its left are deleted.

[0059] When the update button 142 is operated, the geometric tolerance setting at that point in time is saved as part of the estimation condition data Dc, for example. The reference setting button 143 is an operation unit operated to set a new reference. The reference setting button 143 is operated when setting a first type of geometric tolerance according to the second setting process, and is displayed on the display device 22 as an example of adding a setting element. When setting a first type of geometric tolerance through the first setting process, the reference selection units 141c and 141d are used to select the already set reference and correspond it to the geometric tolerance set through the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a and the tolerance value setting unit 141b; it is not necessary to operate the reference setting button 143. The setting object change button 144 is an operation unit operated to newly specify the object part for which the geometric tolerance is to be set. To indicate progress towards setting the geometric tolerance related to the next object part, the setting object change button 144 is labeled, for example, with a label such as "Set Next Face". When the setting object change button 144 is operated, the process moves towards... Figure 7 The screen example shows a state transition, allowing you to specify a new object part for which you want to set geometric tolerances. When the cancel button 145 is pressed, the current geometric tolerance settings are discarded, and processing continues to the next step. Figure 4 The initial state shown on the settings screen 100 is returned. Furthermore, in... Figure 8 In this case, the geometric tolerance is set to an intermediate state. Therefore, the update button 142 and the setting object change button 144 are inoperable. In this situation, the update button 142 and the setting object change button 144 are grayed out to indicate that they are inoperable.

[0060] exist Figure 8 In the geometric tolerance setting unit 141, when the first geometric tolerance is selected from the drop-down menu of the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a, the display content of the dialog box 140 is... Figure 9 The dialog box 140A has changed. In Figure 9 In the example, the tolerance symbol corresponding to the square angle is selected via the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a. The square angle is the first type of geometric tolerance requiring a datum. In dialog box 140A, corresponding to the geometric tolerance selected by the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a being the first type of geometric tolerance, a message 146 is added indicating that a datum is required and serves as information to guide the user in specifying the datum. As an example, message 146 is stated as "A datum is required. Please select a datum symbol or set it via the datum setting button." However, message 146 only needs to inform the user that a datum is required, and can be appropriately modified.

[0061] When geometric tolerances are set according to the first setting process, the datum selection units 141c and 141d select a datum symbol corresponding to any datum from the set datums. For example, when the datum selection unit 141c selects from... Figure 9 When the reference symbol "A" is selected for the state, Figure 9 Dialog box 140A to Figure 10 The dialog box 140B changes. In dialog box 140B, it is shown that the datum symbol "A" has been selected in the datum selection unit 141c. This establishes an association between the tolerance symbol and tolerance value set by the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a and the tolerance value setting unit 141b and the datum. When a datum symbol is selected, all the information required to set the first type of geometric tolerance is specified. Therefore, in Figure 10 During this phase, the update button 142 and the setting object change button 144 become operable, and the grayed-out display of these buttons 142 and 144 is removed.

[0062] exist Figure 10 When the update button 142 is operated in dialog box 140B, the display of the main area 101 is directed to... Figure 11 The state transition. Figure 11 In the example, since the first type of geometric tolerance has been set, the dialog box is not displayed. In model Md, the end face Md1, which is set as the datum, and the outer peripheral face Md2, which has the geometric tolerance set, are highlighted. Furthermore, the datum index IdA, which represents the datum symbol "A," is displayed in a way that establishes association with the end face Md1, and the geometric tolerance index ItA, which represents the setting of the right angle, is displayed in a way that establishes association with the outer peripheral face Md2.

[0063] Next, an example of setting the first type of geometric tolerance according to the second setting process will be explained. This will be achieved through... Figure 4 In the setting screen 100, the geometric tolerance setting button 106 is operated to begin setting the geometric tolerance through the second setting process. In this case, firstly, the main area of ​​the setting screen 100 changes to... Figure 12 The status prompts the user to specify the object location for setting geometric tolerances. Figure 12 Examples of images and Figure 7 The images are essentially the same. However, Figure 12 It shows the way Figures 5-11 The process shown is an example of setting a right angle geometric tolerance for the outer peripheral surface Md2 and adding other geometric tolerances. When setting the first geometric tolerance according to the second setting process, it is independent of whether the datum and geometric tolerance are set according to the first setting process, and it is not necessary to set at least one datum.

[0064] From Figure 12When the state specifies the geometric tolerance setting for the object's face, the display direction of the main area 101 is... Figure 13 The state transition. Figure 13 In the example, the inner circumferential surface Md3 of the shaft portion of model Md is designated as the object area for setting geometric tolerances, and this inner circumferential surface Md3 is highlighted in a way that distinguishes it from other areas. Figure 13 In this design, the inner circumferential surface Md3 is represented by a blank space, but it can also be displayed using a different color than other areas. Additionally, in... Figure 13 In the diagram, corresponding to the designation of the inner circumferential surface Md3, model Md is shown in its axial cross-sectional view. However, changing the way model Md is displayed is not necessarily required.

[0065] exist Figure 13 The phase is displayed in the main area 101. Figure 8 The same dialog box 140. When a tolerance value is set in the tolerance value setting section 141b in the geometric tolerance setting section 141 of dialog box 140, and the first geometric tolerance is selected from the drop-down menu of the tolerance symbol selection section 141a, the displayed content of dialog box 140... Figure 14 The dialog box 140A has changed. Figure 14 dialog box 140A and Figure 9 The dialog box is the same. Figure 14 In the example, a tolerance sign corresponding to coaxiality is specified. Coaxiality is the first type of geometric tolerance that requires a datum.

[0066] exist Figure 14 During the setting phase, the coaxiality of the inner circumferential surface Md3 was set, but a datum corresponding to this geometric tolerance was not set. Therefore, a datum cannot be selected from the datum selection sections 141c and 141d of dialog box 140A. When the datum setting button 143 is operated under such circumstances, the display of the main area 101... Figure 15 The state transition. Figure 15 In the example, with Figure 5 Similarly, a message box 110 instructs the user to click on the surface for which the reference should be set. Corresponding to the advancement to the reference setting stage, the reference setting button 105 is highlighted in the function selection section 104, while the other setting buttons are grayed out. The model Md is displayed as a partial cross-sectional perspective view of the inner circumferential surface Md3.

[0067] exist Figure 15 In the main area 101, the user can, for example, specify the face on model Md to be set as a reference by clicking. Figure 15 In the main region, for example, when the outer peripheral surface Md2 of model Md is specified as the reference, the display direction of the main region 101 is... Figure 16 The state change. In Figure 16In the example, the outer peripheral surface Md2 of model Md is selected as the reference, and this outer peripheral surface Md2 is highlighted in a way that distinguishes it from other parts. Figure 16 In the diagram, the outer peripheral surface Md2 is represented by a blank space, but the outer peripheral surface Md2 can also be displayed using a different color than other parts.

[0068] exist Figure 16 During this stage, a dialog box 150 for selecting a reference symbol is displayed in the main area 101. The dialog box 150 includes a message 151 instructing the selection of a reference symbol, a selection section 152, a move button 153, and a cancel button 154. In the selection section 152, as examples of candidate reference symbols, the letters A, B, etc., are displayed in a drop-down list, allowing selection of any reference symbol. However, it is not possible to select a reference symbol corresponding to a previously set reference. Figure 16 The example shown illustrates the selection of the datum symbol "B" for the outer peripheral surface Md2. When the transfer button 153 is pressed, the datum setting ends, and the process returns to the geometric tolerance setting. When the cancel button 154 is pressed, the current datum settings are discarded; for example, the process returns to... Figure 14 The status is returned.

[0069] In operation Figure 16 When the transfer button 153 is pressed, the display of the main area 101 is directed to... Figure 17 The state transition. During this phase, with... Figure 14 Similarly, dialog box 140A is displayed. Regarding model Md, corresponding to the datum with the datum symbol "B" set, the datum index IdB is additionally displayed. Figure 17 At this stage, the outer peripheral surface Md2 has been established as a reference related to the coaxiality of the inner peripheral surface Md3. Therefore, the reference symbol "B" can be selected by the reference selection unit 141c. When the reference symbol is selected, Figure 17 Dialog box 140A to Figure 18 The dialog box 140B has changed. Figure 18 In dialog box 140B, the datum symbol "B" is shown as selected by the datum selection unit 141c. This establishes an association between the tolerance symbol and tolerance value set by the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a and the tolerance value setting unit 141b and the datum. When a datum symbol is selected, all the information required to set the first type of geometric tolerance is specified. Therefore, in Figure 18 During this phase, the update button 142 and the setting object change button 144 become operable, and the grayed-out display of these buttons 142 and 144 is removed.

[0070] exist Figure 18 When the update button 142 is operated in dialog box 140B, the display of the main area 101 is directed to... Figure 19 The state transition. Figure 19 In the example, since the first geometric tolerance setting is complete, no dialog box is displayed. For model Md, the datum index IdB, which is associated with the datum symbol "B", is displayed in a way that establishes a connection with the outer circumferential surface Md2, and the geometric tolerance index ItB, which represents the coaxiality setting, is displayed in a way that establishes a connection with the inner diameter dimension of the inner circumferential surface Md3.

[0071] Next, refer to Figure 20 and Figure 21 To explain the estimation processing unit 13 via Figures 4-19 This is an example of the process of setting geometric tolerances in the user interface. Figure 20 and Figure 21 Is Figure 3 The stage of setting estimation conditions (step S2) indicates an example of the geometric tolerance setting process performed by the estimation processing unit 13 of server 2 when setting geometric tolerances (steps S2-4). Furthermore, the processing when cancel buttons 125, 145, and 154 are operated is as described above. Figure 20 as well as Figure 21 Illustrations omitted. (By executing...) Figure 20 and Figure 21 In the processing, server 2 functions as an example of the information processing device involved in this invention.

[0072] In the control device 10 of server 2, Figure 5 When the user operates either the reference setting button 105 or the geometric tolerance setting button 106 on the setting screen 100, the estimation processing unit 13 begins... Figure 20 In the geometric tolerance setting process, the estimation processing unit 13 first determines whether the datum setting button 105 has been operated and datum setting has been indicated (step S101). If datum setting is indicated, the estimation processing unit 13... Figure 5 The screen displays the selection of the reference plane to be set based on the user's instructions (step S102). Next, the estimation processing unit 13... Figure 6 The screen displays a selection of a reference symbol based on the user's instructions (step S103).

[0073] When a reference symbol is selected, the estimation processing unit 13 determines whether to perform an operation. Figure 6 The update button 123 is pressed (step S104). When the update button 123 is pressed, the estimation processing unit 13 saves the settings from steps S102 and S103 to the estimation condition data Dc (step S105). Afterwards, the estimation processing unit 13... Figure 4The setting screen 100 is displayed, and it is determined whether the geometric tolerance setting button 106 has been operated and the setting of geometric tolerance has been indicated (step S106). When the geometric tolerance setting button 106 is operated, the estimation processing unit 13 makes Figure 7 and Figure 12 The message box 130 shown indicates that, in response to a user request to specify the face of the object part for which geometric tolerances are to be set, the face of the object part is selected according to the user's instructions (step S107). Next, the estimation processing unit 13... Figure 8 and Figure 13 The dialog box 140 shown allows the user to specify the tolerance symbol and tolerance value, and the tolerance symbol and tolerance value are set according to the specification (step S108). In addition, if the result of step S101 is negative, it is determined that the geometric tolerance setting button 106 was operated to indicate the setting of geometric tolerance, and the process proceeds to step S107.

[0074] When a tolerance symbol and tolerance value are set, the estimation processing unit 13 temporarily stores these settings in its internal storage device (step S109). Next, the estimation processing unit 13 determines, based on the specified tolerance symbol, whether a required geometric tolerance was set in step S108 (step S110). If it is determined that a required geometric tolerance is not a required geometric tolerance, the estimation processing unit 13... Figure 21 The processing in step S115 proceeds. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S110 that a reference is needed, the estimation processing unit 13 proceeds by... Figure 9 and Figure 14 The dialog box 140A shown presents a confirmation message 146 to the user (step S111). This notifies the user that a datum setting is required and that a new datum should be selected or set.

[0075] After the processing in step S111, the estimation processing unit 13 sends... Figure 21 The processing of step S112 proceeds. Figure 21 In step S112, the estimation processing unit 13 determines whether the reference setting button 143 has been operated in the dialog box 140A and a reference setting has been indicated. If a reference setting has been indicated, the estimation processing unit 13 proceeds to the reference setting (step S120). This process starts from the display... Figure 14 The status of the screen is displayed Figure 15 The processing of screen state transitions. When transitioning to reference setting, the estimation processing unit 13 selects the surface to be set as the reference based on the user's instruction (step S121). Next, the estimation processing unit 13... Figure 16 The screen displays a selection of a reference symbol based on the user's instructions (step S122).

[0076] When a reference symbol is selected, the estimation processing unit 13 determines whether to perform an operation. Figure 16 The transfer button 153 is pressed, indicating a return to the geometric tolerance setting (step S123). The estimation processing unit 13 waits until a return is indicated, and if a return is indicated, it saves the settings from steps S121 to S123 to the estimation condition data Dc (step S124). Afterwards, the estimation processing unit 13 uses the transfer button 153 to return to the geometric tolerance setting. Figure 17 The screen display returns the processing to the setting of geometric tolerances (step S125). After the processing in step S125, the estimation processing unit 13 returns to the processing in step S112. Thus, the reference saved in the processing in steps S121 to S124 can be selected from the reference selection units 141c and 141d.

[0077] If no reference setting is indicated in step S112, the estimation processing unit 13 determines whether a reference selection operation has been performed on the reference selection units 141c and 141d (step S113). If a reference selection operation has been performed, the estimation processing unit 13 selects a reference according to that operation (step S114). As a result, the tolerance symbol and tolerance value set by the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a and the tolerance value setting unit 141b are associated with the reference. Through the above processing, all the information required to set the geometric tolerance is specified. Therefore, the dialog box 140A displayed at this point in time... Figure 10 and Figure 18 The dialog box 140B shown changes, and the update button 142 and the setting object change button 144 become operable.

[0078] Next, the estimation processing unit 13 determines whether the current geometric tolerance setting has been updated (saved) by operating the update button 142 (step S115). If an update has been indicated, the estimation processing unit 13 updates the estimation condition data Dc to save the current setting (step S116). Afterward, the estimation processing unit 13 determines whether the add button 141e has been operated (step S117). If it has not been operated, it further determines whether the setting object change button 144 has been operated (step S118). If it is determined in step S117 that the add button 141e has been operated, the estimation processing unit 13 moves the processing direction... Figure 20 The process proceeds to step S108. Therefore, for the object portion selected in step S107, additional geometric tolerances can be set. Furthermore, if it is determined in step S118 that the setting object change button 144 has been operated, the estimation processing unit 13 moves the processing direction... Figure 20 Proceed to step S107. This allows for the setting of geometric tolerances by newly specifying the face of the object part for which geometric tolerances are to be set. Figure 21 If the setting object change button 144 is not operated in step S118, the estimation processing unit 13 ends the current geometric tolerance setting process.

[0079] Based on the above processing, when steps S102 to S105 are executed in sequence to set the datum in response to the user's operation on the datum setting button 105, and then steps S107 to S116 are executed sequentially in response to the user's operation on the geometric tolerance setting button 106 to set the geometric tolerance, the first geometric tolerance is set according to the first setting process. On the other hand, when steps S107 to S112 are executed sequentially in response to the user's operation on the geometric tolerance setting button 106, and then steps S112 to S120 to S125 are executed sequentially in response to the user's operation on the datum setting button 143, and then steps S112 to S116 are executed sequentially, the first geometric tolerance is set according to the second setting process. Furthermore, when steps S107 to S110 are executed sequentially in response to the user's operation on the geometric tolerance setting button 106, and the process jumps from step S110 to step S115, the second geometric tolerance is set without setting or selecting the datum.

[0080] This invention is not limited to the methods described above and can be implemented with appropriate modifications or alterations. For example, in Figure 20 and Figure 21 In the process, in step S110, it is determined whether the first type of geometric tolerance requiring a reference is the object to be set. If it is the setting of the first type of geometric tolerance and the user operates the reference setting button 143, the process proceeds from step S112 to the steps below S120 to set the reference, thereby selecting the second setting process. However, the selection of which setting process to use to set the first type of geometric tolerance can be appropriately modified. For example, if the user instructs to set a geometric tolerance, the user can first specify the type of geometric tolerance to be set. If a geometric tolerance requiring a reference is specified, the user can specify which one, the reference or the geometric tolerance, should be set first, and the first setting process or the second setting process can be selected according to this specification. Alternatively, the user can specify which one of the first setting process or the second setting process should be prioritized as the default setting, and if the setting of the first type of geometric tolerance is requested, the geometric tolerance is set according to the default setting process.

[0081] In the above-described manner, as an example of a setting indicator element operated to indicate either the setting datum or the geometric tolerance, the datum setting button 105 and the geometric tolerance setting button 106 are displayed side-by-side in the function selection section 104 of the setting screen 100. However, the display method of the setting indicator element is not limited to this example. The display method of the setting indicator element can be appropriately changed depending on how the first setting process or the second setting process is selected. For example, only the geometric tolerance setting button 106 may be displayed, and when it is operated, a selection element is displayed to allow the user to indicate whether to set the datum first. If the datum is indicated first, the first setting process is selected; if the geometric tolerance is indicated first, the second setting process is selected. Alternatively, instead of displaying multiple selection items such as dialog boxes 140, 140A, and 140B, the user interface may be configured such that various items requiring geometric tolerance setting are displayed one by one in sequence and the setting is advanced in a dialogue form with the user.

[0082] In the above-described manner, server 2 functions as an example of an information processing device, and ordering assistance system 1 functions as an example of an estimation system. However, the information processing device of the present invention is not limited to the example configured as server 2. A single computer or a logical computer consisting of a collection of multiple computers can function as an information processing device. For example, the computer program involved in the present invention can be installed on user terminal 4, and the processor of the computer of user terminal 4 can execute the computer program, thereby allowing user terminal 4 to function as an information processing device instead of server 2. By using user terminal 4 to share some of the functions of server 2, it is also possible to logically constitute an information processing device through the cooperation of server 2 and user terminal 4. Furthermore, the combination of multiple computers connected via a network can also function as a logical information processing device by appropriately sharing the functions of server 2. In other words, the computer program involved in the present invention is not limited to the example provided as a server, but can also be provided as a user terminal, and can be provided in the following ways: combining a computer program for a server with a computer program for a user terminal; or allowing each computer to function by sharing the execution of processing among multiple computers.

[0083] The estimation system involved in this invention is not limited to examples that constitute at least part of an ordering assistance system. As long as attribute information including the geometric tolerances of the object can be set, and an estimate can be generated and presented to the user based on model data and attribute information, the estimation system can be configured to include or exclude other functions such as order processing functions. The information processing apparatus of this invention is not limited to examples set as part of an estimation system, and can be applied to various systems that require functions that require setting geometric tolerances as at least part of the attribute information of the object. For example, the information processing apparatus of this invention can be applied to the design of objects or to assist in the design process.

[0084] The following describes various embodiments and variations of the present invention derived from the above-described embodiments and variations. Furthermore, in the following description, for ease of understanding of the various embodiments of the present invention, corresponding constituent elements illustrated in the accompanying drawings are labeled with parentheses, but this does not limit the present invention to the illustrated embodiments.

[0085] An information processing apparatus (2) according to one aspect of the present invention includes a processor, wherein the processor performs the following processing: causing a display device (22) to display a model (Md) of an object; setting a geometric tolerance of an object portion in the object as at least a part of the attribute information of the object based on an instruction from a user relating to the model displayed on the display device; regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, in the case of setting a specific geometric tolerance that requires a reference, selecting a setting process of either a first setting process or a second setting process to set the geometric tolerance; in the first setting process, setting the reference first, then setting the specific geometric tolerance, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance; in the second setting process, setting the specific geometric tolerance first, then setting the reference, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance.

[0086] One aspect of the present invention relates to a computer program (Pg) configured to cause a processor of a computer (10) to perform the following processing: causing a display device (22) to display a model (Md) of an object; based on instructions from a user relating to the model displayed on the display device, setting the geometric tolerance of an object portion in the object as at least a part of the object's attribute information; regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, in the case of setting a specific geometric tolerance requiring a reference, selecting a setting process of either a first setting process or a second setting process to set the geometric tolerance; in the first setting process, setting the reference first, then setting the specific geometric tolerance, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance; in the second setting process, setting the specific geometric tolerance first, then setting the reference, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance.

[0087] One aspect of the present invention relates to an information processing method that causes a processor of a computer (10) to perform the following processing: causing a display device (22) to display a model (Md) of an object; setting the geometric tolerance of an object portion in the object as at least a part of the attribute information of the object based on an instruction from a user relating to the model displayed on the display device; regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, in the case of setting a specific geometric tolerance that requires a reference, selecting a setting process of either a first setting process or a second setting process to set the geometric tolerance; in the first setting process, setting the reference first, then setting the specific geometric tolerance, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance; in the second setting process, setting the specific geometric tolerance first, then setting the reference, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance.

[0088] One aspect of the present invention relates to an estimation system comprising a processor (1) that performs the following processes: acquiring model data (Dm) describing an object; displaying a model (Md) of the object on a display device (22) based on the model data; setting attribute information of the object based on user instructions relating to the model displayed on the display device; generating an estimation required to provide the object based on the model data and the attribute information and presenting it to the user; in the case of setting the attribute information, setting the geometric tolerance of an object part in the object as at least a part of the attribute information based on user instructions; regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, in the case of setting a specific geometric tolerance requiring a reference, selecting a setting process of either a first setting process or a second setting process to set the geometric tolerance; in the first setting process, setting the reference first, then setting the specific geometric tolerance, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance; in the second setting process, setting the specific geometric tolerance first, then setting the reference, and establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance.

[0089] According to the above method, when setting a specific geometric tolerance that requires a reference, in the first setting process, the reference can be set first, and then the specific geometric tolerance can be set; in the second setting process, the specific geometric tolerance can be set first, and then the reference can be set, thus establishing a relationship between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance. Therefore, the ease of use related to setting specific geometric tolerances can be improved. For example, if setting a specific geometric tolerance begins when the reference is not set, the reference can still be set according to the second setting process, without needing to discard the geometric tolerance setting and start over from the reference setting. Furthermore, the reference and specific geometric tolerance can be set in either the first or second setting process, thus allowing the setting process to be used separately according to the user's requirements.

[0090] Furthermore, the computer program involved in one aspect of this disclosure can also be provided in the form of being stored in a storage medium. If this storage medium is used, the system of the present invention can be implemented using that computer, for example, by installing and executing the computer program involved in the present invention in a computer. The storage medium storing the computer program can also be a non-transitory storage medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0091] The following items can be further added to the above method. Furthermore, the following items can be appropriately combined as long as they do not contradict each other.

[0092] Alternatively, the processor may perform the following processing: causing the display device to display a setting indication element (105, 106) that is operated to indicate the setting of either the reference or the geometric tolerance; if the setting indication element is operated such that the reference is set before the setting of the specific geometric tolerance, the specific geometric tolerance is set according to the first setting process; if the setting indication element is operated such that the specific geometric tolerance is set before the setting of the specific geometric tolerance, the specific geometric tolerance is set according to the second setting process. Thus, the first or second setting process can be selected based on the user's operation of the setting indication element, and a specific geometric tolerance and its corresponding reference can be set.

[0093] Alternatively, the processor may perform the following process: when setting the specific geometric tolerance according to the second setting procedure, after setting the specific geometric tolerance, the display device displays an additional instruction element (143) that is operated to set the reference, and the setting procedure is advanced towards setting the reference in accordance with the operation of the additional instruction element. Thus, after setting the specific geometric tolerance by operating the setting instruction element, the user can be guided to operate the additional instruction element to set the reference. Therefore, the setting of the specific geometric tolerance through the second setting procedure can proceed smoothly.

[0094] Alternatively, the processor may perform the following process: when the specific geometric tolerance is set according to the second setting procedure, it may notify the user, in association with the setting of the specific geometric tolerance, of information indicating that the reference is required (146). Thus, when the specific geometric tolerance is set according to the second setting procedure, the user can reliably be aware that a reference needs to be set.

[0095] Alternatively, the processor may perform the following processing: when the setting instruction element is operated to set the geometric tolerance, and the geometric tolerance to be set is different from the specific geometric tolerance and does not require the reference, the geometric tolerance is set based on the user's instruction. Thus, when the setting instruction element is operated to set the geometric tolerance, the geometric tolerance setting process can be differentiated based on whether the geometric tolerance to be set requires a reference.

[0096] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-203714, filed on December 1, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0097] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0098] 1: Ordering support system;

[0099] 2: Server;

[0100] 4: User terminal;

[0101] 10: Control device;

[0102] 13: Estimation and Processing Department;

[0103] 22: Display device;

[0104] 100: Settings screen;

[0105] 104: Function Selection Section;

[0106] 105: Baseline setting button;

[0107] 106: Geometric tolerance setting button;

[0108] 124: Geometric tolerance setting button;

[0109] 141: Geometric tolerance setting section;

[0110] 141a: Tolerance sign selection section;

[0111] 141b: Tolerance setting section;

[0112] 141c, 141c: Reference selection unit;

[0113] 142: Update button;

[0114] 143: Baseline setting button;

[0115] 146: Confirmation message.

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus, comprising a processor, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: To make the display device display a model of the object, Based on user instructions relating to the model displayed on the display device, the geometric tolerances of object portions in the object are set as at least a portion of the object's attribute information. Regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, when setting a specific geometric tolerance that requires a reference, the geometric tolerance is set by selecting either a first setting process or a second setting process. In the first setting process, the reference is set first, and then the specific geometric tolerance is set, establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance. In the second setting process, the specific geometric tolerance is set first, and then the reference is set, establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The processor performs the following processes: causing the display device to display a setting indication element that is operated to indicate the setting of either the reference or the geometric tolerance; when the setting indication element is operated such that the reference is set first for the setting of the specific geometric tolerance; setting the specific geometric tolerance according to the first setting process; and when the setting indication element is operated such that the specific geometric tolerance is set first for the setting of the specific geometric tolerance; setting the specific geometric tolerance according to the second setting process.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: when the specific geometric tolerance is set according to the second setting process, after the specific geometric tolerance is set, the display device displays an additional indication element that is operated to set the reference, and the setting process is advanced toward the setting of the reference in accordance with the operation of the additional indication element.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: when the specific geometric tolerance is set according to the second setting process, it notifies the user, in association with the setting of the specific geometric tolerance, of information indicating that the reference is required.

5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein, The processor performs the following processing: when the setting instruction element is operated to set the geometric tolerance, and the geometric tolerance to be set is different from the specific geometric tolerance and does not require the reference geometric tolerance, the geometric tolerance is set based on the user's instruction.

6. A computer program product comprising a computer program configured to cause a computer processor to perform the following processes: To make the display device display a model of the object, Based on user instructions relating to the model displayed on the display device, the geometric tolerances of object portions in the object are set as at least a portion of the object's attribute information. Regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, when setting a specific geometric tolerance that requires a reference, the geometric tolerance is set by selecting either a first setting process or a second setting process. In the first setting process, the reference is set first, and then the specific geometric tolerance is set, establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance. In the second setting process, the specific geometric tolerance is set first, and then the reference is set, establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance.

7. An information processing method that causes a computer processor to perform the following processing: To make the display device display a model of the object, Based on user instructions relating to the model displayed on the display device, the geometric tolerances of object portions in the object are set as at least a portion of the object's attribute information. Regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, when setting a specific geometric tolerance that requires a reference, the geometric tolerance is set by selecting either a first setting process or a second setting process. In the first setting process, the reference is set first, and then the specific geometric tolerance is set, establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance. In the second setting process, the specific geometric tolerance is set first, and then the reference is set, establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance.

8. An estimation system, comprising a processor, The processor performs the following processing: Obtain model data describing objects. Based on the model data, the display device displays a model of the object. Based on user instructions relating to the model displayed on the display device, the attribute information of the object is set. Based on the model data and the attribute information, an estimate is generated to provide the necessary information for the object and presented to the user. When the attribute information is set, based on the user's instruction, the geometric tolerance of the object portion in the object is set as at least a part of the attribute information. Regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, when setting a specific geometric tolerance that requires a reference, the geometric tolerance is set by selecting either a first setting process or a second setting process. In the first setting process, the reference is set first, and then the specific geometric tolerance is set, establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance. In the second setting process, the specific geometric tolerance is set first, and then the reference is set, establishing an association between the reference and the specific geometric tolerance.

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