Visualisation device, visualisation method and visualisation program

Abstract

This invention supports measures for improving greenhouse gas emissions in supply chains. The visualization device includes: an acquisition unit that acquires a first greenhouse gas emission emitted when the nth operator of N operators constituting the supply chain generates a unit quantity of an nth-order product; a second greenhouse gas emission emitted by each of the 1st to (n-1th)th operators when generating a 1st-order product used to generate the unit quantity of the nth-order product, up to the generation of an (n-1th)th-order product; and a third greenhouse gas emission emitted by each of the (n+1th)th to Nth operators when generating an (n+1th)th-order product to an Nth-order product generated using the unit quantity of the nth-order product; and a visualization unit that visualizes the greenhouse gas emissions of the N operators constituting the supply chain using the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a visualization device, visualization method, and visualization program. Background Technology

[0002] In the past, operators that emit greenhouse gases were required to calculate their greenhouse gas emissions, and various operators proposed different calculation methods.

[0003] <Prior art documents>

[0004] <Non-Patent Literature>

[0005] Patent Document 1: (Japanese) Patent No. 7369984 Summary of the Invention

[0006] <Problem to be solved by this invention>

[0007] On the other hand, the calculation methods used by different operators are not standardized and are not interchangeable, resulting in limited information sharing among them. Consequently, for example, it is difficult to analyze greenhouse gas emissions across the entire supply chain and to develop countermeasures.

[0008] This disclosure supports measures to improve greenhouse gas emissions across the entire supply chain.

[0009] <Methods for solving problems>

[0010] The visualization device of the first aspect of this disclosure includes:

[0011] The acquisition unit acquires the following: the first greenhouse gas emissions emitted when the nth operator among the N operators constituting the supply chain generates a unit quantity of n-th grade product; the second greenhouse gas emissions emitted by each operator from the 1st to the (n-1th)th operator when generating a first-grade product used in generating the unit quantity of n-th grade product to generating an (n-1th)-th grade product; and the third greenhouse gas emissions emitted by each operator from the (n+1th)th to the Nth operator when generating an (n+1th)-th grade product to an Nth grade product using the unit quantity of n-th grade product; and

[0012] The visualization department uses the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions to visualize the greenhouse gas emissions of the N operators constituting the supply chain.

[0013] The second aspect of this disclosure is a visualization device according to the first aspect, wherein,

[0014] The first greenhouse gas emissions include:

[0015] Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the implementation of the business of the nth operator;

[0016] Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the energy supply used by the nth operator to carry out its business;

[0017] Greenhouse gas emissions from the delivery of goods for the nth operator to carry out its business; and

[0018] Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the activities of business operators involved in carrying out business for the nth operator.

[0019] The third aspect of this disclosure is a visualization device according to the first or second aspect, wherein,

[0020] The second greenhouse gas emissions include:

[0021] Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the operation of the first to the (n-1)th operators;

[0022] Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the energy supply used by the operators from the 1st to the (n-1th)th to carry out their operations; and

[0023] Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the activities of business operators carrying out their business for the first to n-1th operators.

[0024] The fourth aspect of this disclosure is a visualization device according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein,

[0025] The third greenhouse gas emissions include:

[0026] Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the operation of each operator from the (n+1)th to the Nth operator;

[0027] Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the energy supply used by the (n+1)th to Nth operators to carry out their business operations; and

[0028] Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the activities of business operators carrying out their business for the (n+1)th to Nth operators.

[0029] The fifth aspect of this disclosure is a visualization device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, wherein,

[0030] The visualization unit uses the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, and visualizes the greenhouse gas emissions of the N operators constituting the supply chain using a Sankey diagram.

[0031] The sixth aspect of this disclosure is a visualization device according to the fifth aspect, wherein,

[0032] The Sankey diagram includes:

[0033] The thickness of the emission lines was adjusted according to the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, and the emission lines connecting the operators or the end operators were also adjusted accordingly.

[0034] The thickness of the recycling line is adjusted according to the amount of resources recovered by each operator for recycling purposes, and the recycling line is either the starting point or the end point of each operator, or the recycling line connecting the operators.

[0035] The seventh aspect of this disclosure is a visualization device according to the sixth aspect, wherein,

[0036] The visualization device also includes a modification unit that can modify the greenhouse gas emissions of any one operator.

[0037] The visualization unit, in accordance with the changed greenhouse gas emissions as altered by the modification unit, changes the thickness of the emission line corresponding to the one operator in the Sankey diagram.

[0038] The eighth aspect of this disclosure is a visualization device according to the sixth aspect, wherein,

[0039] The visualization device also includes a modification unit that can modify the ratio of regenerative energy used by any one operator to carry out its business.

[0040] The visualization unit adjusts the thickness of the emission line corresponding to the one operator in the Sankey diagram, in accordance with the greenhouse gas emissions based on the changed ratio of renewable energy as altered by the modification unit.

[0041] The ninth aspect of this disclosure is a visualization device according to the sixth aspect, wherein,

[0042] The visualization device also includes a modification unit, which can modify the conveying mechanism used by any operator to carry out business operations.

[0043] The visualization unit adjusts the thickness of the emission line corresponding to the one operator in the Sankey diagram, in accordance with the greenhouse gas emissions of the modified conveying mechanism as changed by the modification unit.

[0044] The tenth aspect of this disclosure is a visualization device according to the sixth aspect, wherein,

[0045] The visualization device also includes a modification unit, which modifies the amount of resources recovered for recycling when any operator conducts business.

[0046] The visualization section, corresponding to the changed recovery amount modified by the modification section, changes the thickness of the recovery amount line in the Sankey diagram that starts and ends with the single operator, or the recovery amount line connecting the operators.

[0047] And correspondingly, the thickness of the emission line corresponding to the one operator in the Sankey diagram is changed according to the greenhouse gas emissions of the changed recovery amount modified by the change department.

[0048] The eleventh aspect of this disclosure is a visualization device according to the sixth aspect, wherein,

[0049] The nth operator is a specific single operator.

[0050] Each of the operators from the first to the (n-1)th includes multiple operators that generate (n-1)th-order products from the same type of first-order product.

[0051] Each of the n+1 to Nth operators includes multiple operators that generate Nth-order products from the same type of n+1-order products.

[0052] The visualization method of the 12th aspect of this disclosure includes:

[0053] The process involves obtaining the following: first greenhouse gas emissions emitted when the nth operator among N operators constituting the supply chain generates a unit quantity of n-th grade product; second greenhouse gas emissions emitted by operators 1 through (n-1)th when generating a first grade product used in generating the unit quantity of n-th grade product to generating an (n-1)th grade product; and third greenhouse gas emissions emitted by operators (n+1) through Nth when generating an (n+1)th grade product to an Nth grade product using the unit quantity of n-th grade product.

[0054] The visualization process uses the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, to visualize the greenhouse gas emissions of the N operators constituting the supply chain.

[0055] The visualization program of the 13th aspect of this disclosure is used to cause a computer to perform the following steps.

[0056] The process involves obtaining the following: first greenhouse gas emissions emitted when the nth operator among N operators constituting the supply chain generates a unit quantity of n-th grade product; second greenhouse gas emissions emitted by operators 1 through (n-1)th when generating a first grade product used in generating the unit quantity of n-th grade product to generating an (n-1)th grade product; and third greenhouse gas emissions emitted by operators (n+1) through Nth when generating an (n+1)th grade product to an Nth grade product using the unit quantity of n-th grade product.

[0057] The visualization process uses the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, to visualize the greenhouse gas emissions of the N operators constituting the supply chain.

[0058] <The Effects of the Invention>

[0059] According to this disclosure, measures can be supported to improve greenhouse gas emissions across the entire supply chain. Attached Figure Description

[0060] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an example of greenhouse gas emissions calculations for each operator that makes up the supply chain.

[0061] Figure 2 This is a graph showing an example of greenhouse gas emissions calculations associated with a specific product.

[0062] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of obtaining greenhouse gas emissions using the visualization device of the first embodiment.

[0063] Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of the visualization device according to the first embodiment.

[0064] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the functional structure of the visualization device according to the first embodiment.

[0065] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the data stored in the data storage unit of the visualization device according to the first embodiment.

[0066] Figure 7 Figure 1 is an example of a greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen generated by the visualization device of the first embodiment.

[0067] Figure 8 This is an example of a flowchart illustrating the process of visualization processing performed by the visualization device of the first embodiment.

[0068] Figure 9Figure 1 shows an example of a greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen generated by the visualization device of the second embodiment.

[0069] Figure 10 Figure 2 shows an example of a greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen generated by the visualization device of the second embodiment.

[0070] Figure 11 Figure 3 shows an example of a greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen generated by the visualization device of the second embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0071] Hereinafter, various embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in this specification and the accompanying drawings, configurations having substantially the same functional structure will be labeled with the same symbols to omit redundant descriptions.

[0072] [First Implementation]

[0073] <Example of calculating greenhouse gas emissions for each operator>

[0074] First, an example of calculating greenhouse gas emissions visualized using the visualization device of the first embodiment will be explained. The visualization device of the first embodiment visualizes the greenhouse gas emissions of each operator constituting the supply chain for a specific product.

[0075] Figure 1 This is a graph illustrating an example of greenhouse gas emissions calculations for each operator in the supply chain. (Example) Figure 1 As shown, the supply chain 100 involving a specific product includes resource manufacturers 110, material manufacturers 120, component manufacturers 130, and finished product manufacturers 140.

[0076] Furthermore, in Figure 1 In the example, for the sake of simplicity, resource manufacturer 110, material manufacturer 120, component manufacturer 130 and finished product manufacturer 140 are each recorded as having only one operator, but may also include multiple operators.

[0077] like Figure 1 As shown, the operators that make up the supply chain calculate greenhouse gas emissions by calculating the greenhouse gas emissions for each project individually and then adding all the emissions together.

[0078] Specifically, resource manufacturer 110 calculates...

[0079] • Greenhouse gas emissions directly resulting from the implementation of business activities (resource generation),

[0080] • Greenhouse gas emissions indirectly generated by the energy (electricity) supply required to carry out business operations,

[0081] • With the indirect greenhouse gas emissions from transportation used for business operations,

[0082] • Greenhouse gas emissions indirectly generated by the activities of business operators in carrying out their business,

[0083] Then, all the items are added together to calculate the greenhouse gas emissions of resource manufacturer 110.

[0084] Furthermore, the greenhouse gas emissions indirectly emitted in connection with the energy supply for the operation of the above projects will vary depending on the proportion of renewable energy in that energy. Additionally, the greenhouse gas emissions indirectly emitted in connection with the transportation of the above projects will vary depending on the transportation element.

[0085] Material manufacturer 120 calculates

[0086] • Greenhouse gas emissions directly resulting from the implementation of business operations (material generation),

[0087] • Greenhouse gas emissions indirectly generated by the energy (electricity) supply required to carry out business operations,

[0088] • With the indirect greenhouse gas emissions from transportation used for business operations,

[0089] • Greenhouse gas emissions indirectly generated by the activities of business operators in carrying out their business,

[0090] Then, all the items are added together to calculate the greenhouse gas emissions of material manufacturer 120.

[0091] Furthermore, the greenhouse gas emissions directly emitted during the implementation of the above projects will vary depending on the amount of materials recovered for recycling from material manufacturer 120 and downstream operators (component manufacturer 130, finished product manufacturer 140). Additionally, the greenhouse gas emissions indirectly emitted during the energy supply for the implementation of the above projects will vary depending on the proportion of renewable energy in that energy. Furthermore, the greenhouse gas emissions indirectly emitted during the transportation for the implementation of the above projects will vary depending on the transportation element.

[0092] Component manufacturer 130 calculated

[0093] • Greenhouse gas emissions directly resulting from the implementation of operations (component production).

[0094] • Greenhouse gas emissions indirectly generated by the energy (electricity) supply required to carry out business operations,

[0095] • With the indirect greenhouse gas emissions from transportation used for business operations,

[0096] • Greenhouse gas emissions indirectly generated by the activities of business operators in carrying out their business,

[0097] Then, all the items are added together to calculate the greenhouse gas emissions of component manufacturer 130.

[0098] Furthermore, the greenhouse gas emissions directly emitted during the implementation of the above projects will vary depending on the amount of components recovered for recycling from component manufacturer 130 and downstream operators (finished product manufacturer 140). Additionally, the greenhouse gas emissions indirectly emitted during the energy supply for the implementation of the above projects will vary depending on the proportion of renewable energy in that energy. Furthermore, the greenhouse gas emissions indirectly emitted during the transportation for the implementation of the above projects will vary depending on the transportation element.

[0099] Finished product manufacturer 140 through calculation

[0100] • Greenhouse gas emissions directly generated during the implementation of the project (production of finished products).

[0101] • Greenhouse gas emissions indirectly generated by the supply of energy (electricity) for carrying out business operations,

[0102] • With the indirect greenhouse gas emissions from transportation used for business operations,

[0103] • The greenhouse gas emissions of finished product manufacturer 140 are calculated by adding up all the greenhouse gas emissions indirectly emitted by business operators in order to carry out their business.

[0104] Furthermore, the greenhouse gas emissions directly emitted as a result of the operation in the above projects will vary depending on the amount of finished products recovered from the finished product manufacturer 140 for recycling. Additionally, the greenhouse gas emissions indirectly emitted as a result of the energy supply for the operation in the above projects will vary depending on the proportion of renewable energy in that energy. Finally, the greenhouse gas emissions indirectly emitted as a result of the transportation for the operation in the above projects will vary depending on the transportation element.

[0105] As described above, in the first embodiment, each operator constituting the supply chain calculates greenhouse gas emissions by calculating greenhouse gas emissions for each of the same items and then adding all the items together.

[0106] Therefore, according to the first embodiment, the calculation method is standardized among operators, which improves the compatibility of greenhouse gas emissions among operators compared with the conventional method.

[0107] <Example of calculating greenhouse gas emissions related to a specific product>

[0108] Next, a calculation example of greenhouse gas emissions obtained by the visualization device of the first embodiment will be described. The greenhouse gas emissions obtained by the visualization device of the first embodiment are obtained by... Figure 1 The greenhouse gas emissions calculated in the example shown are those related to a specific product. Specifically, in the first embodiment, greenhouse gas emissions related to "material A," a specific product generated by material manufacturer 120, are calculated.

[0109] Figure 2 This is a graph illustrating an example of greenhouse gas emissions calculations associated with a specific product. Figure 2 In this context, "Raw Material I" and "Raw Material II" are raw materials used to generate "Material A," a specific product produced by Material Manufacturer 120, and are also raw materials produced by Resource Manufacturer 110. Furthermore, in... Figure 2 In this context, symbol 210 represents the weight of raw materials "Raw Material I" and "Raw Material II" required for material manufacturer 120 to produce the unit quantity of "Material A" shown by symbol 220. The example of symbol 210 indicates the case where the weight of "Raw Material I" is "X1_1" and the weight of "Raw Material II" is "X1_2". Resource manufacturer 110 calculates the greenhouse gas emissions when producing "Raw Material I" with a weight of "X1_1" and "Raw Material II" with a weight of "X1_2".

[0110] Material manufacturer 120 calculates the greenhouse gas emissions per unit quantity of "material A".

[0111] exist Figure 2 In this context, "part α" is a part produced using "material A," a specific product manufactured by material manufacturer 120, and is also a part manufactured by part manufacturer 130. Furthermore, in... Figure 2 In this context, symbol 230 indicates the number of parts produced using a unit quantity of "material A" generated by material manufacturer 120. The example of symbol 230 represents the case where the number of "parts α" is "X3". Part manufacturer 130 calculates the greenhouse gas emissions when producing "parts α" with a quantity of "X3".

[0112] exist Figure 2In this context, "finished product a" is a finished product equipped with a component made using "material A," a specific product manufactured by material manufacturer 120, and is manufactured by finished product manufacturer 140. Furthermore, in Figure 2 In this context, symbol 240 represents the number of finished products equipped with components made using a unit quantity of "material A" produced by material manufacturer 120. An example of symbol 240 represents the case where the number of "finished products a" is "X4". Finished product manufacturer 140 calculates the greenhouse gas emissions when producing "X4" finished products a.

[0113] Furthermore, as described above, the case where material manufacturer 120 produces "material A" in the unit quantity indicated by symbol 220 includes,

[0114] • Based on the formation of raw material I and raw material II,

[0115] • Based on the situation of materials recycled within the company, or materials recycled from component manufacturer 130, or materials recycled from finished product manufacturer 140.

[0116] Similarly, the case where component manufacturer 130 generates the number of components "X3" "component α" as indicated by symbol 230 includes,

[0117] • When generated using material A,

[0118] • Cases involving the use of parts recycled within the company, or parts recycled from finished product manufacturer 140.

[0119] Similarly, the case where finished product manufacturer 140 generates "X4" finished products as indicated by symbol 240, includes,

[0120] • When using component α for generation,

[0121] • Situations where finished products recycled within the company are used in production.

[0122] In addition, Figure 2 In the example, the detailed steps of resource manufacturer 110 in generating raw material I and raw material II are omitted, but it is assumed that resource manufacturer 110 generates raw material I and raw material II through multiple steps.

[0123] Similarly, in Figure 2 In the example, the detailed steps of material manufacturer 120 in producing material A are omitted, but it is assumed that material manufacturer 120 produces material A through multiple steps.

[0124] Similarly, in Figure 2In the example, the detailed steps of the part manufacturer 130 in generating part α are omitted, but it is assumed that the part manufacturer 130 generates part α through multiple steps.

[0125] Similarly, in Figure 2 In the example, the detailed steps of the finished product manufacturer 140 in producing finished product a are omitted, but it is assumed that finished product manufacturer 140 produces finished product a through multiple steps.

[0126] <Example of obtaining greenhouse gas emissions using a visualization device>

[0127] Next, an example of obtaining greenhouse gas emissions obtained by the visualization device of the first embodiment will be described. The visualization device of the first embodiment is a device provided by the material manufacturer 120, which, as described above, obtains the greenhouse gas emissions related to "material A", a specific product generated by the material manufacturer 120. Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating an example of obtaining greenhouse gas emissions using the visualization device of Embodiment 1.

[0128] like Figure 3 As shown, the visualization device possessed by material manufacturer 120 obtains, from resource manufacturer 110, an example of a second greenhouse gas emission in the greenhouse gas emissions calculated by resource manufacturer 110.

[0129] • Greenhouse gas emissions generated when producing feedstock I with a feedstock weight of “X1_1” and feedstock II with a feedstock weight of “X1_2”, respectively.

[0130] Here, when the visualization device of the first embodiment obtains the greenhouse gas emissions from the resource manufacturer 110,

[0131] • According to each conveying element, and

[0132] • According to the ratio of each regenerated energy,

[0133] Obtain them separately.

[0134] like Figure 3 As shown, the visualization device possessed by the material manufacturer 120 obtains an example of the first greenhouse gas emission from the greenhouse gas emissions calculated by the material manufacturer 120.

[0135] • The amount of greenhouse gas emissions emitted when producing one unit amount of material A.

[0136] Here, the visualization device of the first embodiment obtains greenhouse gas emissions from the material manufacturer 120.

[0137] • According to each conveying element, and

[0138] • According to the ratio of each regenerated energy, and

[0139] • Based on the amount of each piece of recycled material,

[0140] Obtain them separately. Additionally, the amount of recycled material refers to the amount of material used for recycling and recovered during the production of a unit quantity of material A.

[0141] like Figure 3 As shown, the visualization device possessed by the material manufacturer 120 obtains, from the component manufacturer 130, an example of the third greenhouse gas emission in the greenhouse gas emissions calculated by the component manufacturer 130.

[0142] • Greenhouse gas emissions when generating “X3” components α.

[0143] Here, the visualization device of the first embodiment obtains the greenhouse gas emissions each time it does so from the component manufacturer 130.

[0144] According to each conveying element, and

[0145] • According to the ratio of each regenerated energy, and

[0146] • Based on the amount of each recycled component,

[0147] Obtain them separately. In addition, the amount of recycled components refers to the amount of components recycled for reuse when generating the number of components "X3" components α.

[0148] like Figure 3 As shown, the visualization device possessed by the material manufacturer 120 obtains, from the finished product manufacturer 140, another example of the third greenhouse gas emission in the greenhouse gas emissions calculated by the finished product manufacturer 140.

[0149] • Greenhouse gas emissions when producing “X4” finished products a.

[0150] Here, the visualization device of the first embodiment, each time the greenhouse gas emissions are obtained from the finished product manufacturer 140,

[0151] According to each conveying element, and

[0152] • According to the ratio of each regenerated energy, and

[0153] • Based on the amount of each recycled product,

[0154] Obtain them separately. Additionally, the amount of recycled finished products refers to the amount of finished products recycled for resource recovery used when generating finished product a in quantities equivalent to "X4" finished products.

[0155] <Hardware Structure of the Visualization Device>

[0156] Next, the hardware structure of the visualization device of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 4 This is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware structure of a visualization device. (For example...) Figure 4 As shown, the visualization device 400 includes a processor 401, a memory 402, an auxiliary storage device 403, an interface device 404, a communication device 405, and a driver device 406. Here, the various hardware components of the visualization device 400 are interconnected via a bus 407.

[0157] Processor 401 includes various computing devices such as CPU (Central Processing Unit) and GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Processor 401 executes various programs by reading various programs (e.g., visualization programs) into memory 402.

[0158] The memory 402 includes main storage devices such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and RAM (Random Access Memory). The processor 401 and the memory 402 form a so-called computer, through which the processor 401 executes various programs read from the memory 402, and the computer performs various functions.

[0159] The auxiliary storage device 403 stores various programs and various data used when the processor 401 executes the various programs. For example, the data storage unit 505, which will be described later, is implemented in the auxiliary storage device 403.

[0160] Interface device 404 is a connection device for connecting operation device 411, which is an example of a user interface device, and display device 412. Communication device 405 is a communication device for communicating with external devices via a network (not shown).

[0161] The drive device 406 is a means for setting the recording medium 413. The recording medium 413, as described herein, includes media that record information optically, electrically, or magnetically, such as CD-ROMs, floppy disks, and magneto-optical disks. The recording medium 413 may also include semiconductor memories that record information electrically, such as ROMs and flash memory.

[0162] Alternatively, various programs installed in the auxiliary storage device 403 may be installed, for example, by placing the distributed recording medium 413 in the drive device 406, and having the drive device 406 read the various programs recorded on the recording medium 413. Alternatively, the various programs installed in the auxiliary storage device 403 may also be installed by downloading them from a network via the communication device 405.

[0163] <Functional Structure of the Visualization Device>

[0164] Next, the functional structure of the visualization device 400 will be explained in detail. Figure 5 This diagram illustrates an example of the functional structure of a visualization device. As described above, a visualization program is installed in the visualization device 400, and by executing the program, the visualization device 400 functions as an acquisition unit 501, a ratio calculation unit 502, a visualization unit 503, and a modification unit 504.

[0165] The acquisition unit 501 acquires the greenhouse gas emissions emitted when raw material I with a weight of "X1_1" and raw material II with a weight of "X1_2" respectively are generated from the resource manufacturer 110 according to the ratio of each conveying element and each regenerated energy.

[0166] The acquisition unit 501 acquires the greenhouse gas emissions emitted when generating a unit amount of material A from the material manufacturer 120, based on each conveying element, the ratio of each regenerated energy, and the amount of each recycled material.

[0167] The acquisition unit 501 acquires the greenhouse gas emissions emitted when generating a number of components "X3" of components α from the component manufacturer 130, based on each conveying element, the ratio of each regenerated energy, and the amount of recycling for each recycling component.

[0168] The acquisition unit 501 acquires the greenhouse gas emissions emitted when producing "X4" units of finished product a from the finished product manufacturer 140, based on each conveying element, the ratio of each regenerated energy, and the amount of each recycled finished product.

[0169] Furthermore, this section describes how the acquisition unit 501 acquires greenhouse gas emissions related to "material A," a specific product generated by the material manufacturer 120. However, the acquisition unit 501 can also acquire greenhouse gas emissions related to other specific products generated by the material manufacturer 120.

[0170] The ratio calculation unit 502 calculates the ratio of greenhouse gas emissions obtained from resource manufacturer 110, component manufacturer 130, and finished product manufacturer 140 to greenhouse gas emissions obtained from material manufacturer 120. Specifically, the ratio calculation unit 502 calculates...

[0171] • Ratio 1 = (Greenhouse gas emissions 1 when producing raw material I with a weight of "X1_1" and raw material II with a weight of "X1_2" respectively) / (Greenhouse gas emissions when producing one unit amount of material A),

[0172] • Ratio 2 = (Greenhouse gas emissions 2 per unit quantity of material A produced) / (Greenhouse gas emissions per unit quantity of material A produced)

[0173] • Ratio 3 = (Greenhouse gas emissions 3 when producing 3 x 3 units of component α) / (Greenhouse gas emissions when producing one unit of material A).

[0174] • Ratio 4 = (Greenhouse gas emissions 4 when producing “X4” units of finished product a) / (Greenhouse gas emissions when producing one unit of material A).

[0175] In addition, the ratio calculation unit 502 stores in the data storage unit 505 the ratio calculated according to each conveying element, each regenerated energy ratio, each recovery amount, and the greenhouse gas emissions used to calculate the ratio, according to each specific product type.

[0176] The visualization unit 503 uses ratios 1 to 4 stored in the data storage unit 505 to visualize the greenhouse gas emissions of the resource manufacturers 110, material manufacturers 120, component manufacturers 130 and finished product manufacturers included in the supply chain 100.

[0177] The visualization unit 503 visualizes the amount of materials recycled by the material manufacturer 120, the amount of components recycled by the component manufacturer 130, and the amount of finished products recycled by the finished product manufacturer 140.

[0178] Specifically, the visualization unit 503 uses ratios 1 to 4 to visualize the greenhouse gas emissions of resource manufacturers 110, material manufacturers 120, component manufacturers 130, and finished product manufacturers 140 respectively through Sankey diagrams.

[0179] For example, in the Sankey diagram, the visualization unit 503 visualizes the emission lines obtained by adjusting the thickness of the emission line representing greenhouse gas emission 1 relative to the thickness of other emission lines according to the ratio 1.

[0180] In the Sankey diagram, the visualization unit 503 visualizes the emission lines obtained by adjusting the thickness of the emission line representing greenhouse gas emission 2 relative to the thickness of other emission lines according to ratio 2.

[0181] In the Sankey diagram, the visualization unit 503 visualizes the emission lines obtained by adjusting the thickness of the emission line representing greenhouse gas emissions 3 relative to the thickness of other emission lines according to ratio 3.

[0182] In the Sankey diagram, the visualization unit 503 visualizes the emission lines obtained by adjusting the thickness of the emission line representing greenhouse gas emissions 4 relative to the thickness of other emission lines according to ratio 4.

[0183] In addition, the visualization unit 503 visualizes the recycling volume of material manufacturer 120, component manufacturer 130 and finished product manufacturer 140 respectively through Sankey diagrams.

[0184] For example, in a Sankey diagram, the visualization unit 503 visualizes the recycling line for which the material manufacturer 120 adjusts the thickness based on the amount of material recycled within the company, the amount of material recycled from the component manufacturer 130, and the amount of material recycled from the finished product manufacturer.

[0185] In the Sankey diagram, the visualization unit 503 visualizes the recycling line, which adjusts the thickness of the recycling amount of parts recycled by the component manufacturer 130 based on the recycling amount of parts recycled within the company and the recycling amount of parts recycled from the finished product manufacturer 140.

[0186] In the Sankey diagram, the visualization department 503 visualizes the thickness of the recycling line that the finished product manufacturer 140 adjusts based on the amount of finished products recycled within the company.

[0187] The modification unit 504 accepts input of changes to the line thicknesses of the Sankey diagram generated by the visualization unit 503, and reflects these changes in the visualization unit 503. The modification content accepted by the modification unit 504 includes:

[0188] • Types of materials

[0189] • Greenhouse gas emissions from resource manufacturers 110

[0190] • Greenhouse gas emissions from material manufacturers 120

[0191] • Greenhouse gas emissions from component manufacturers 130

[0192] • Greenhouse gas emissions from finished product manufacturers, etc.

[0193] In addition, the changes accepted by the change department 504 include:

[0194] • The ratio of renewable energy of resource manufacturers 110

[0195] • The ratio of renewable energy in 120 materials manufacturers.

[0196] • The ratio of regenerative energy of component manufacturers 130

[0197] • The ratio of regenerated energy of finished product manufacturers 140, etc.

[0198] In addition, the changes accepted by the change department 504 include:

[0199] • The conveying mechanism of resource manufacturer 110,

[0200] • The conveying mechanism of material manufacturer 120,

[0201] • Conveying mechanism of component manufacturer 130

[0202] • Conveying mechanisms for finished product manufacturers 140, etc.

[0203] In addition, the changes accepted by the change department 504 include:

[0204] • The amount of materials recycled by material manufacturer 120 within the company, or from component manufacturer 130, or from finished product manufacturer 140.

[0205] • The amount of parts recycled by component manufacturer 130 within the company or from finished product manufacturer 140.

[0206] • The amount of finished products recycled by the finished product manufacturer 140 within the company, etc.

[0207] <An example of data stored in the data storage department>

[0208] Next, a specific example of the data stored in the data storage unit 505 will be explained. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of the data stored in the data storage unit of the visualization device according to the first embodiment.

[0209] like Figure 6 As indicated by symbol 600, in the visualization device 400 of the first embodiment, the greenhouse gas emissions of each operator are stored in the data storage unit 505 according to each type of material.

[0210] As indicated by symbol 600, the greenhouse gas emissions stored in the data storage unit 505 include the following information items:

[0211] • "Greenhouse gas emissions 1 from resource producers when generating raw materials weighing "X1_1" and "X1_2"".

[0212] • "Greenhouse gas emissions per unit volume of material produced by the material manufacturer2",

[0213] • "The greenhouse gas emissions of the component manufacturer when generating 'x3' components is 3".

[0214] • The greenhouse gas emissions of the finished product manufacturer when producing “X4” components is 4. Figure 6 The example of the symbol 600 indicates that, as the greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the item in this information, the following situations exist:

[0215] Y1,

[0216] ·Y2 (=Y0),

[0217] Y3

[0218] ·Y4.

[0219] In addition, Figure 6 In the example of symbol 600, some details have been omitted for simplicity, but it is envisioned that, for example, in item = "Direct emissions with business implementation", different emissions are stored according to each recovery amount. Additionally, in item = "Indirect emissions with energy supply", different emissions are stored according to each ratio of regenerated energy. Furthermore, in item = "Indirect emissions with transportation", different emissions are stored according to each transportation mechanism.

[0220] Therefore, it is envisioned that “Emissions Y” contains a number of greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the number of combinations between projects.

[0221] like Figure 6 As indicated by symbol 610, in the visualization device 400 of the first embodiment, the data storage unit 505 also stores the recycling amount of each operator.

[0222] As shown by symbol 610, the items stored in the data storage unit 505 as information include:

[0223] • "Our company's recycling volume"

[0224] • "Recovery volume from downstream 1"

[0225] • "Recovery amount from downstream 2".

[0226] exist Figure 6 In the example of symbol 610, the amount of recycling corresponding to the item in this information is stored as follows:

[0227] •Z2_1, Z2_2, Z2_3,

[0228] •Z3_1, Z3_2,

[0229] ·Z4_1.

[0230] <An example of a display screen showing greenhouse gas emission ratios>

[0231] Next, the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen generated by the visualization unit 503 of the visualization device 400 of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 7 This is a diagram showing an example of a greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen generated by the visualization device of the first embodiment.

[0232] like Figure 7 As shown, the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700 has a change area 710 and a Sankey diagram display area 720.

[0233] The change area 710 includes the material type change area 711, the resource manufacturer greenhouse gas emission change area 712, the material manufacturer greenhouse gas emission change area 713, the component manufacturer greenhouse gas emission change area 714, and the finished product manufacturer greenhouse gas emission change area 715.

[0234] The Sankey diagram display area 720 displays the Sankey diagram. In the Sankey diagram display area 720, the emission line 721 connecting operators is an emission line with a coarse-to-fine ratio adjusted according to ratio 1 (=Y1 / Y0), and corresponds to the greenhouse gas emissions "Y1" of resource manufacturer 110.

[0235] In the Sankey diagram display area 720, the emission line 722_1 connecting operators is an emission line with a thicker-to-thin ratio adjusted according to ratio 2 (=Y2 / Y0), and corresponds to the greenhouse gas emissions "Y2" of material manufacturer 120. In the Sankey diagram display area 720, the recycling line 722_2, with one operator as the starting and ending point, is a recycling line with a thicker-to-thin ratio adjusted according to the company's recycling volume. Specifically, the recycling line 722_2, with one operator as the starting and ending point, represents the company's recycling volume "Z2_1" of materials used for recycling when material manufacturer 120 generates a unit quantity of material A. In the Sankey diagram display area 720, the recycling line 722_3 connecting operators is a recycling line with a thicker-to-thin ratio adjusted according to the recycling volume from component manufacturer 130. Specifically, the recycling line 722_3 connecting operators represents the recycling amount "Z2_2" of the component manufacturer 130 of the material used for recycling when the material manufacturer 120 generates a unit amount of material A.

[0236] In the Sankey diagram display area 720, the emission line 723_1 connecting operators is an emission line with a thickened ratio adjusted according to ratio 3 (=Y3 / Y0), and corresponds to the greenhouse gas emissions "Y3" of component manufacturer 130. In the Sankey diagram display area 720, the recycling line 723_2, with one operator as the starting and ending point, is a recycling line with a thickened ratio adjusted according to the company's recycling volume. Specifically, the recycling line 723_2, with one operator as the starting and ending point, represents the company's recycling volume "Z3_1" of components used for recycling when component manufacturer 130 generates component α in the number "X3" components. In the Sankey diagram display area 720, the recycling line 723_3 connecting operators is a recycling line with a thickened ratio adjusted according to the recycling volume from finished product manufacturer 140. Specifically, the recycling line 723_3 connecting operators represents the recycling amount "Z3_2" of the components used for recycling from the finished product manufacturer 140 when the component manufacturer 130 generates a component α with a component quantity of "X3".

[0237] In the Sankey diagram display area 720, the emission line 724_1 of the end operator is an emission line with a coarse-to-fine ratio adjusted according to ratio 4 (=Y4 / Y0), and is equivalent to the greenhouse gas emissions "Y4" of the finished product manufacturer 140. In the Sankey diagram display area 720, the recycling line 724_2, with one operator as the starting and ending point, is a recycling line with a coarse-to-fine ratio adjusted according to the company's recycling volume. Specifically, the recycling line 724_2, with one operator as the starting and ending point, represents the company's own recycling volume "Z4_1" of the finished product used for recycling when the finished product manufacturer 140 generates finished product a with a number of parts "X4".

[0238] For example, when a user changes the type of material in the material type change area 711 of the change area 710, a Sankey diagram related to the changed material is displayed in the Sankey diagram display area 720.

[0239] Furthermore, for example, when a user changes the resource manufacturer's greenhouse gas emissions in the resource manufacturer's greenhouse gas emissions change area 712 of change area 710, the thickness of the emission line 721 connecting the operators is changed according to the changed resource manufacturer's greenhouse gas emissions.

[0240] Similarly, when a user changes the greenhouse gas emissions of a material manufacturer in the material manufacturer greenhouse gas emissions change area 713 of change area 710, the thickness of the emission line 722_1 connecting the operators is changed according to the changed material manufacturer greenhouse gas emissions.

[0241] Similarly, when a user changes the greenhouse gas emissions of a component manufacturer in component manufacturer greenhouse gas emission change area 714 of change area 710, the thickness of the emission line 723_1 connecting the operators is changed according to the changed component manufacturer greenhouse gas emissions.

[0242] Similarly, when a user changes the greenhouse gas emissions of the finished product manufacturer in the finished product manufacturer greenhouse gas emission change area 715 of change area 710, the thickness of the emission line 724_1 of the end operator is changed according to the changed finished product manufacturer greenhouse gas emissions.

[0243] As mentioned above, by using the Sankey diagram to visualize the greenhouse gas emissions of each operator in the supply chain,

[0244] Users will be able to analyze the ratio of each operator's greenhouse gas emissions to the total greenhouse gas emissions of the supply chain.

[0245] • By becoming able to analyze the ratio of greenhouse gas emissions from each operator, it is possible to identify which operator's greenhouse gas emission reductions are effective in improving overall supply chain greenhouse gas emissions. In other words, the visualization device 400 can support measures for improving overall supply chain greenhouse gas emissions.

[0246] <Visualization Process>

[0247] The following describes the visualization process performed by the visualization device of the first embodiment. Furthermore, a general description will be given of each operator constituting the supply chain 100. Figure 8 This is an example of a flowchart illustrating the process of visualization processing performed by the visualization device of the first embodiment. Specifically,

[0248] • Imagine that the number of operators constituting the supply chain is N.

[0249] • Imagine that the operator who produces a specific product is the nth operator.

[0250] The products generated by the first to the Nth operators are called products of order 1 to order N. Therefore, the product generated by the (n-1)th operator is called the (n-1)th order product, the product generated by the nth operator is called the nth order product, and the nth order product generated by the (n+1)th operator is called the (n+1)th order product.

[0251] In step S801, the visualization device 400 determines the supply chain associated with the nth-order product generated by the nth operator.

[0252] In step S802, the visualization device 400 calculates the first greenhouse gas emissions emitted when the nth operator generates a unit amount of nth-order product.

[0253] In step S803, the visualization device 400 acquires the second greenhouse gas emissions emitted when the first to the (n-1)th operators generate the first to the (n-1)th order products used when the nth operator generates a unit amount of the nth order product.

[0254] In step S804, the visualization device 400 acquires the third greenhouse gas emissions from the products generated by the (n+1)th to the Nth operators using the unit amount of the nth product generated by the nth operator to generate the (n+1)th to the Nth products.

[0255] In step S805, the visualization device 400 uses the first greenhouse gas emission amount obtained in step S802 as a benchmark to calculate the ratio of the second and third greenhouse gas emissions obtained in steps S803 and S804. The visualization device 400 stores the calculated ratio together with the obtained first to third greenhouse gas emissions in the data storage unit 505.

[0256] In step S806, the visualization device 400 also determines whether the nth operator's other types of nth-order products also generate the first to third greenhouse gas emissions. If the other types of nth-order products are determined to generate the first to third greenhouse gas emissions (if "yes" is true in step S806), the process returns to step S801.

[0257] On the other hand, in step S806, regarding other types of n-order products, if it is determined that the first to third greenhouse gas emissions will not be obtained (in the case of "no" in step S806), proceed to step S807.

[0258] In step S807, the visualization device 400 receives a start instruction for the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen and displays the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700.

[0259] In step S808, the visualization device 400 accepts the input of change information in the change area 710 of the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700.

[0260] In step S809, the visualization device 400 modifies and displays the Sankey diagram based on the received change information and the data stored in the data storage unit 505.

[0261] In step S810, the visualization device 400 determines whether to continue displaying the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700. If the determination is to continue (if "yes" is in step S810), it returns to step S808.

[0262] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S810 that the process should not continue (in the case of "no" in step S810), the visualization process ends.

[0263] Summary

[0264] As can be clearly seen from the above description, the visualization device 400 of the first embodiment...

[0265] • Obtain the first greenhouse gas emission “Y0” emitted when the nth operator among the N operators constituting the supply chain produces a unit quantity of an nth-order product.

[0266] • Obtain the second greenhouse gas emissions “Y1” emitted by operators from the 1st to the (n-1th)th operators when generating a unit amount of n-th order product using order 1 to order (n-1th) products.

[0267] • Obtain the third greenhouse gas emissions “Y3” and “Y4” emitted by operators from the (n+1)th to the Nth generation when they use a unit amount of the nth generation product to generate the n+1th to Nth generation products.

[0268] • Visualize the greenhouse gas emissions of N operators that make up the supply chain by using the ratio of the second and third greenhouse gas emissions “Y1”, “Y3”, “Y4” to the first greenhouse gas emissions “Y0”.

[0269] As described above, by visualizing the greenhouse gas emissions of the N operators constituting the supply chain, the visualization device 400 according to the first embodiment can support measures to improve the overall greenhouse gas emissions of the supply chain.

[0270] [Second Implementation]

[0271] In the first embodiment described above, the scenario where the user changes the material type or the greenhouse gas emissions of each operator in the change area 710 of the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700 was explained. However, the parameters that can be changed by the user in the change area 710 of the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700 are not limited to this. In the second embodiment, the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700 when other parameters are changed will be described.

[0272] (1) Changes in the ratio of regenerative energy

[0273] First, an explanation will be given regarding the changes in the renewable energy ratios of various operators by users. Figure 9Figure 1 shows an example of a greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen generated by the visualization device of the second embodiment.

[0274] like Figure 9 As shown, the change area 710 includes the resource manufacturer's renewable energy ratio change area 912, the material manufacturer's renewable energy ratio change area 913, the component manufacturer's renewable energy ratio change area 914, and the finished product manufacturer's renewable energy ratio change area 915.

[0275] For example, when a user changes the renewable energy ratio in the resource manufacturer renewable energy ratio change area 912 of change area 710, the thickness of the emission line 721 connecting operators is changed according to the resource manufacturer greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the changed renewable energy ratio.

[0276] Similarly, when a user changes the renewable energy ratio in the material manufacturer's renewable energy ratio change area 913 of change area 710, the thickness of the emission line 722_1 connecting operators is changed according to the material manufacturer's greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the changed renewable energy ratio.

[0277] Similarly, when a user changes the renewable energy ratio in the component manufacturer's renewable energy ratio change area 914 of change area 710, the thickness of the emission line 723_1 connecting operators is changed according to the component manufacturer's greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the changed renewable energy ratio.

[0278] Similarly, when a user changes the renewable energy ratio in the finished product manufacturer's renewable energy ratio change area 915 of change area 710, the thickness of the end-operator's emission line 724_1 is changed according to the finished product manufacturer's greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the changed renewable energy ratio.

[0279] (2) Changes to the conveying mechanism

[0280] Next, we will explain the situation regarding users changing the delivery mechanisms of various operators. Figure 10 Figure 2 is an example of a greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen generated by the visualization device of the second embodiment.

[0281] like Figure 10 As shown, the change area 710 includes the resource manufacturer delivery method change area 1012, the material manufacturer delivery method change area 1013, the component manufacturer delivery method change area 1014, and the finished product manufacturer delivery method change area 1015.

[0282] For example, when a user changes the delivery method in the resource manufacturer delivery method change area 1012 of the change area 710, the thickness of the emission line 721 connecting the operators is changed according to the resource manufacturer’s greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the changed delivery method.

[0283] Similarly, when a user changes the delivery method in the material manufacturer delivery method change area 1013 of the change area 710, the thickness of the emission line 722_1 connecting the operators is changed according to the greenhouse gas emissions of the material manufacturer corresponding to the changed delivery method.

[0284] Similarly, when a user changes the delivery method in the component manufacturer delivery method change area 1014 of the change area 710, the thickness of the emission line 723_1 between the connecting operators is changed according to the greenhouse gas emissions of the component manufacturer corresponding to the changed delivery method.

[0285] Similarly, when a user changes the delivery method in the finished product manufacturer delivery method change area 1015 of the change area 710, the thickness of the end-operator's emission line 724_1 is changed according to the finished product manufacturer's greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the changed delivery method.

[0286] (3) Changes in the amount recovered

[0287] Next, we will explain the situation where users change the amount of resources recycled for the recycling of various operators. Figure 11 This is an example of a greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen generated by the visualization device of the second embodiment. Figure 3 .

[0288] like Figure 11 As shown, the change area 710 includes the material manufacturer recycling change area 1113, the component manufacturer recycling change area 1114, and the finished product manufacturer recycling change area 1115.

[0289] For example, when a user changes the recycling amount of symbol 1113_1 in the material manufacturer recycling amount change area 1113 of change area 710, the thickness of the recycling amount line 722_2 is changed. Additionally, when the recycling amount of symbol 1113_1 is changed, the thickness of the emission line 722_1 connecting the operators is changed according to the greenhouse gas emissions of the material manufacturer corresponding to the changed recycling amount.

[0290] When a user changes the amount of recycling symbol 1113_2, the thickness of recycling line 722_3 is changed, and at the same time, the thickness of emission line 722_1 connecting operators is changed according to the greenhouse gas emissions of the material manufacturer corresponding to the changed recycling amount.

[0291] When the user changes the recycling amount of symbol 1113_3, the recycling amount line connecting the finished product manufacturer and the material manufacturer is re-displayed, and the thickness of the emission line 722_1 connecting the operators is changed according to the greenhouse gas emissions of the material manufacturer corresponding to the changed recycling amount.

[0292] Similarly, for example, when a user changes the recycling amount of symbol 1114_1 in the component manufacturer recycling amount change area 1114 of change area 710, the thickness of the recycling amount line 723_2 is changed. Additionally, when the recycling amount of symbol 1114_1 is changed, the thickness of the emission line 723_1 connecting the operators is changed according to the component manufacturer's greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the changed recycling amount.

[0293] When a user changes the amount of recycling symbol 1114_2, the thickness of recycling line 723_3 is changed, and at the same time, the thickness of emission line 723_1 connecting the operators is changed according to the greenhouse gas emissions of the component manufacturers corresponding to the changed recycling amount.

[0294] Similarly, for example, when a user changes the recycling amount of symbol 1115_1 in the finished product manufacturer recycling amount change area 1115 of change area 710, the thickness of recycling amount line 724_2 is changed, and at the same time, the thickness of the end operator's emission amount line 724_1 is changed according to the finished product manufacturer's greenhouse gas emissions corresponding to the changed recycling amount.

[0295] As described above, according to the visualization device 400 of the second embodiment, the user can identify the greenhouse gas emissions after changes in other parameters.

[0296] [Third Implementation]

[0297] In the first embodiment described above, using Figure 1 The calculation example illustrates the method for calculating greenhouse gas emissions for each operator, but the method for calculating greenhouse gas emissions for each operator is not limited to using... Figure 1 The example calculation can also be used to calculate greenhouse gas emissions using other methods.

[0298] In the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700 of the first embodiment described above, a Sankey diagram is shown where each of the resource manufacturer 110, component manufacturer 130, and finished product manufacturer 140 is an operator. However, the display method of the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700 is not limited to this. For example, if the resource manufacturer 110 consists of two operators, the emission line 721 connecting the operators can be displayed vertically according to the ratio of each operator.

[0299] In the first embodiment described above, the case was conceived as the specific product being "material A" and the nth operator being the material manufacturer 120. However, the specific product could also be raw material I, raw material II, component α, finished product a, etc. In this case, the nth operator would be the resource manufacturer 110, the component manufacturer 130, and the finished product manufacturer 140, respectively.

[0300] In the first embodiment described above, it was explained that the visualization device 400 obtains the greenhouse gas emissions of each conveying element, the greenhouse gas emissions of each renewable energy ratio, and the greenhouse gas emissions of each recycled material from each operator. However, the visualization device 400 does not need to obtain all greenhouse gas emissions; for example, industry standard values ​​or estimates can be used to replace a portion of the greenhouse gas emissions.

[0301] In the second embodiment described above, parameters other than the types of materials and the greenhouse gas emissions of each operator are illustrated. However, the types of materials and parameters other than the greenhouse gas emissions of each operator are not limited to the parameters illustrated in the second embodiment described above.

[0302] In the second embodiment described above, it was explained that when changing the conveying element, the user can change any one of the conveying elements, but it is also possible to change to multiple conveying elements according to a specified ratio.

[0303] In the above embodiments, a greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700 is exemplified as a greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen, but the layout, display items, etc. of the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen are not limited to the exemplified greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700.

[0304] In the above embodiments, it was explained that when a parameter related to any operator is changed in the change area 710 of the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700, the thickness of the emission line corresponding to the greenhouse gas emissions of that operator is changed. However, the method of changing the greenhouse gas emission ratio display screen 700 is not limited to this. For example, in order to maintain the ratio of greenhouse gas emissions among operators, the thickness of the emission line corresponding to the greenhouse gas emissions of operators other than the operator whose parameters have been changed may also be configured to change.

[0305] In the above embodiments, the greenhouse gas emissions are represented using a Sankey diagram, but other diagrams besides the Sankey diagram can also be used to represent greenhouse gas emissions.

[0306] In the above embodiments, the case where the visualization device 400 is implemented by one device is described, but the visualization device 400 can also be implemented by multiple devices.

[0307] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the structures illustrated in the above embodiments, or combinations thereof with other elements. Changes can be made to these points without departing from the spirit of the invention, and can be appropriately determined depending on the application.

[0308] This application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-212948, filed on December 18, 2023, and the entire contents of that Japanese Patent Application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0309] Symbol Explanation

[0310] 100 Supply Chain

[0311] 110 Resource Manufacturer

[0312] 120 Material Manufacturers

[0313] 130 parts manufacturers

[0314] 140 Finished Product Manufacturers

[0315] 400 Visualization Devices

[0316] 501 Acquisition Department

[0317] 502 Ratio Calculation Department

[0318] 503 Visualization Department

[0319] 504 Change Department

[0320] 700 Greenhouse Gas Emission Ratio Display Screen

[0321] 710 Change of Region

[0322] 720 Sankey diagram showing the region

Claims

1. A visualization device comprising: The acquisition unit acquires the following: the first greenhouse gas emissions emitted when the nth operator among the N operators constituting the supply chain generates a unit quantity of n-th grade product; the second greenhouse gas emissions emitted by each operator from the 1st to the (n-1th)th operator when generating a first-grade product used in generating the unit quantity of n-th grade product to generating an (n-1th)-th grade product; and the third greenhouse gas emissions emitted by each operator from the (n+1th)th to the Nth operator when generating an (n+1th)-th grade product to an Nth grade product using the unit quantity of n-th grade product; and The visualization department uses the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions to visualize the greenhouse gas emissions of the N operators constituting the supply chain.

2. The visualization device according to claim 1, wherein, The first greenhouse gas emissions include: Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the implementation of the business of the nth operator; Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the energy supply used by the nth operator to carry out its business; Greenhouse gas emissions from the delivery of goods for the nth operator to carry out its business; and Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the activities of business operators involved in carrying out business for the nth operator.

3. The visualization device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second greenhouse gas emissions include: Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the operation of the first to the (n-1)th operators; Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the energy supply used by the operators from the 1st to the (n-1th)th to carry out their operations; and Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the activities of business operators carrying out their business for the first to n-1th operators.

4. The visualization device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The third greenhouse gas emissions include: Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the operation of each operator from the (n+1)th to the Nth operator; Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the energy supply used by the (n+1)th to Nth operators to carry out their business operations; and Greenhouse gas emissions resulting from the activities of business operators carrying out their business for the (n+1)th to Nth operators.

5. The visualization device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein, The visualization unit uses the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, and visualizes the greenhouse gas emissions of the N operators constituting the supply chain using a Sankey diagram.

6. The visualization device according to claim 5, wherein, The Sankey diagram includes: The thickness of the emission lines was adjusted according to the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, and the emission lines connecting the operators or the end operators were also adjusted accordingly. The thickness of the recycling line is adjusted according to the amount of resources recovered by each operator for recycling purposes, and the recycling line is either the starting point or the end point of each operator, or the recycling line connecting the operators.

7. The visualization device according to claim 6, wherein, The visualization device also includes a modification unit that can modify the greenhouse gas emissions of any one operator. The visualization unit, in accordance with the changed greenhouse gas emissions as altered by the modification unit, changes the thickness of the emission line corresponding to the one operator in the Sankey diagram.

8. The visualization device according to claim 6, wherein, The visualization device also includes a modification unit that can modify the ratio of regenerative energy used by any one operator to carry out its business. The visualization unit adjusts the thickness of the emission line corresponding to the one operator in the Sankey diagram, in accordance with the greenhouse gas emissions based on the changed ratio of renewable energy as altered by the modification unit.

9. The visualization device according to claim 6, wherein, The visualization device also includes a modification unit, which can modify the conveying mechanism used by any operator to carry out business operations. The visualization unit adjusts the thickness of the emission line corresponding to the one operator in the Sankey diagram, in accordance with the greenhouse gas emissions of the modified conveying mechanism as changed by the modification unit.

10. The visualization device according to claim 6, wherein, The visualization device also includes a modification unit, which modifies the amount of resources recovered for recycling when any operator conducts business. The visualization section, corresponding to the changed recovery amount modified by the modification section, changes the thickness of the recovery amount line in the Sankey diagram that starts and ends with the single operator, or the recovery amount line connecting the operators. And correspondingly, the thickness of the emission line corresponding to the one operator in the Sankey diagram is changed according to the greenhouse gas emissions of the changed recovery amount modified by the change department.

11. The visualization device according to claim 6, wherein, The nth operator is a specific single operator. Each of the operators from the first to the (n-1)th includes multiple operators that generate (n-1)th-order products from the same type of first-order product. Each of the n+1 to Nth operators includes multiple operators that generate Nth-order products from the same type of n+1-order products.

12. A visualization method, comprising: The process of obtaining the first greenhouse gas emissions emitted when the nth operator among the N operators constituting the supply chain generates a unit quantity of n-th order product, the second greenhouse gas emissions emitted when each operator from the 1st to the (n-1th)th operator generates the first order product used to generate the unit quantity of n-th order product to the (n-1th)th order product, and the third greenhouse gas emissions emitted when each operator from the (n+1th)th to the Nth operator generates the (n+1th)th order product to the Nth order product using the unit quantity of n-th order product. and The visualization process uses the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, to visualize the greenhouse gas emissions of the N operators constituting the supply chain.

13. A visualization program for causing a computer to perform the following steps, The process involves obtaining the following: first greenhouse gas emissions emitted when the nth operator among N operators constituting the supply chain generates a unit quantity of n-th grade product; second greenhouse gas emissions emitted by operators 1 through (n-1)th when generating a first grade product used in generating the unit quantity of n-th grade product to generating an (n-1)th grade product; and third greenhouse gas emissions emitted by operators (n+1) through Nth when generating an (n+1)th grade product to an Nth grade product using the unit quantity of n-th grade product. The visualization process uses the ratio of the second greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, and the ratio of the third greenhouse gas emissions to the first greenhouse gas emissions, to visualize the greenhouse gas emissions of the N operators constituting the supply chain.

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