Purchase assistance device, purchase assistance method, and purchase assistance program

Abstract

To provide a user with a plurality of plant components constituting a fluid transport system.SOLUTION: A purchase assistance device 1a comprises: a condition input assistance section 31 that acquires, as a selection condition, a requested function and a requested specification relating to a fluid transport system that a user desires to purchase; a standard system constitution generation section 32 that identifies a plurality of standard components respectively corresponding to a plurality of element components constituting the fluid transport system, on the basis of the selection condition, from a standard component database 21 storing information on the plurality of standard components relating to the fluid transport system; and an order specification preparation section 61 that prepares an order specification on the basis of a standard fluid transport system constituted of the identified plurality of standard components.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 33

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a purchase assistance device, a purchase assistance method, and a purchase assistance program. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, when a prospective purchaser (hereinafter sometimes referred to as a "user") purchases a plant part, the following process is generally required between the purchaser and the supplier. Here, examples of prospective purchasers include plant manufacturers and factories that operate plants. First, the buyer creates an order specification for the part, and requests a quote from the supplier by presenting the created order specification. The supplier creates a quote based on the order specification and presents it to the buyer. The buyer adjusts the specifications and places an order with the supplier who requested the quote.

[0003] As described above, in the past, ordering parts required a lot of time and effort because many steps were required before an order could be placed. In addition, quotations could only be obtained from suppliers that the prospective purchaser inquired about themselves. This caused inconveniences, for example, in that even if there was a supplier offering similar parts under better conditions (e.g., lower prices, shorter delivery times, better service, etc.), it was not possible to reach that supplier. Furthermore, from the supplier's perspective, in the case of small orders for parts with low unit prices, the sales and profits were low compared to the effort required to prepare an estimate, and it was not worth it. This could lead to disadvantages for prospective purchasers, such as delays in responding to other orders or relatively high quoted prices.

[0004] Conventionally, as a system for reducing the process and labor of procuring parts, there is a manufacturing outsourcing support device disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example. When this manufacturing outsourcing support device receives drawing data of a part from a manufacturer, it analyzes the received drawing data to determine whether the part can be processed, requests quotes from multiple processors that can process the part, and returns the estimated price to the manufacturer. In this way, the manufacturing outsourcing support device disclosed in Patent Document 1 mediates between the manufacturer and processor, making it possible to reduce the burden on both parties regarding parts procurement. Moreover, Patent Document 2 discloses a device that can automatically estimate the price or delivery date of a set of multiple parts that make up a machine device and provide it to a user. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6462945 [Patent Document 2] Patent No. 6415492 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, the devices disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are systems specialized for processed products and cannot be immediately applied to procuring plant parts. In other words, it is necessary to determine which plant parts to purchase after considering parameters specific to fluid transport systems, such as flow rate and pressure loss, in addition to constraints such as design pressure, operating pressure, design temperature, and operating temperature.

[0007] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a purchasing support device, a purchasing support method, and a purchasing support program that can present multiple plant parts that make up a fluid transport system to a user all at once. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] A purchasing support device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a purchasing support device that supports the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant parts, and includes a condition input support unit that acquires required functions and required specifications for the fluid transport system that a user wishes to purchase as selection conditions, a standard system configuration generation unit that identifies a plurality of standard parts that correspond to a plurality of component parts that constitute the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database in which information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system is stored, and an order specification creation unit that creates an order specification based on a standard fluid transport system composed of the identified plurality of standard parts.

[0009] A purchasing support device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a purchasing support device that supports the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant parts, and includes: a condition input support unit that acquires required functions and required specifications for the fluid transport system that a user wishes to purchase as selection conditions; a standard system configuration generation unit that identifies a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of component parts that constitute the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database in which information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system is stored; a system component selection unit that selects one or more supplier parts that correspond to each of the component parts from a supplier parts database in which information on supplier parts sold by suppliers is stored based on the specifications of the plurality of standard parts; and a selection candidate generation unit that generates a plurality of system configuration candidates, which are combinations of supplier parts that constitute the fluid transport system, based on the selected plurality of supplier parts, generates a comparison selection screen in which the multiple system configuration candidates are displayed in a comparative manner, and provides the selection screen to a client terminal.

[0010] A purchasing support method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a purchasing support method for supporting the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant parts, the method including: a condition input support process for acquiring required functions and required specifications for the fluid transport system that a user wishes to purchase as selection conditions; a standard system configuration generation process for identifying a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of component parts that constitute the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database in which information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system is stored; and an order specification creation process for creating an order specification based on a standard fluid transport system composed of the identified plurality of standard parts.

[0011] A purchasing support method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a purchasing support method for supporting the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant parts, the method including: a condition input support step of acquiring required functions and required specifications for the fluid transport system desired by a user as selection conditions; a standard system configuration generation step of identifying a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of component parts constituting the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database in which information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system is stored; a system component selection step of selecting one or more supplier parts corresponding to each of the component parts from a supplier parts database in which information on supplier parts sold by suppliers is stored based on the specifications of the plurality of standard parts; and a selection candidate generation step of generating a plurality of system configuration candidates which are combinations of supplier parts constituting the fluid transport system based on the selected plurality of supplier parts, generating a comparison selection screen in which the plurality of system configuration candidates are displayed in a comparative manner, and providing the selection candidate generation screen to a client terminal.

[0012] A purchase assistance program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a purchase assistance program for causing a computer to function as any one of the purchase assistance devices described above. Effect of the Invention

[0013] According to the purchase support device, the purchase support method, and the purchase support program disclosed herein, it is possible to present a plurality of plant parts constituting a fluid transport system to a user all at once. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram showing a network configuration of a purchase support device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a purchase support device according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] 2 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of functions provided in the purchase support device according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of information stored in a standard parts database according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of supplier part information stored in a supplier part database according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14]FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a condition input screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a standard system configuration adjustment screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of information stored in a system configuration storage unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 20] FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a computational blockchain according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a standard system selection screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] 3 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in a part candidate storage unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 23] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a comparison and selection screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an individual selection screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 25] 4 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in a selected parts storage unit according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 26] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a system configuration adjustment screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a final confirmation screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an order reservation screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an option selection screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 30] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a quotation confirmation screen according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 31] 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of a purchase support method according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 32] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the relationship between plant parts. [Diagram 33] FIG. 11 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of functions provided in a purchase support device according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 34] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of required specifications in terms of performance when the target part according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure is a valve. [Diagram 35] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of required specification data according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 36] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a quote request screen according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 37] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a comparison and selection screen when the component part according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure is a pump. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] [First embodiment] Hereinafter, a purchase support device 1, a purchase support method, and a purchase support program according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The purchase support device 1 according to this embodiment is a device suitable for purchasing a group of parts (a complete set of parts) that constitute a fluid transport system, for example, in plant engineering involving engineering of the fluid transport system. Here, "engineering in fluid transport systems" refers to planning, designing, and procuring systems that transport media such as gas, liquid, and solid, which are installed in a plant. Media include gas-liquid mixed systems (for example, a mixed system of steam and condensate), gas-solid mixed systems (for example, air transport of pulverized coal), and liquid-solid mixed systems (for example, slurry).

[0016] In addition, the term "plant parts" refers to, for example, fluid conducting elements and equipment used in a fluid transport system. Examples of fluid conducting elements include pipes, expandable / contractible pipes (bellows, flexible tubes, etc.), bend pipes, elbows, joints, and valves (manual valves, motorized valves, solenoid valves, control valves, safety valves, check valves, etc.). Examples of equipment include instruments, transport equipment, strainers, accumulators, steam traps, and desuperheaters. Examples of instruments include pressure gauges, thermometers, and flowmeters. Examples of transport equipment include pumps, fans, blowers, compressors, and conveyors. Examples of peripheral parts include heat-insulating equipment (heat-insulating members), pipe support members, equipment support racks, and steel frames. By further expanding the scope, industrial machines that receive and discharge fluids, such as boilers, freezers, dehydrators, and dryers, can also be included.

[0017] Figure 32 shows the relationships between plant parts. There are some plant parts whose specifications cannot be selected until a design is completed that takes into consideration the operation of the plant, such as the range of changes in flow rate, etc. Examples of such plant parts include piping parts such as safety valves, control valves (including air-operated and oil-operated), heat exchangers, desuperheaters, orifices, and steam traps, as well as transport equipment such as pumps, fans, blowers, and compressors. In addition, there are plant components that require electrical connections for power sources and measurement / control signals. Examples of such plant components include solenoid valves, motor-operated valves, control valves (including air-operated and oil-operated), pumps, fans, blowers, compressors, transport equipment such as conveyors, and instruments.

[0018] The purchase support device 1 according to this embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the network configuration of a purchase support device 1 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 1, purchase support device 1 is connectable to a client terminal 70 and a supplier terminal 80 via a network, and is configured to be able to send and receive information between them. Examples of the network include Wi-Fi, mobile communication systems (3G, 4G, 5G, 6G, LTE, etc.), wireless LAN (Local Area Network), and wired LAN.

[0019] 1 illustrates one client terminal 70 and three supplier terminals 80, the numbers of client terminals 70 and supplier terminals 80 connected to the purchase support device 1 are not limited to this example. For example, in order to improve the freedom of part selection, it is preferable that more supplier terminals 80 are connected to the purchase support device 1. 1, the purchase support device 1, the client terminal 70, and the supplier terminal 80 are all connected by the same network, but this is not limited to this example. For example, the network connecting the purchase support device 1 and the client terminal 70 may be different from the network connecting the purchase support device 1 and the supplier terminal 80.

[0020] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the purchase support device 1. The purchase support device 1 is a so-called server (computer), and as shown in FIG. 2, the main components are a CPU (processor) 11, an auxiliary storage device 12 for storing programs (e.g., a purchase support program) executed by the CPU 11, a main memory 13 that functions as a work area when each program is executed, and a communication device 14 for connecting to a network, and these components are connected via a bus 18. The purchase support device 1 may further include an input unit 15 such as a keyboard and a display unit 16. The auxiliary storage device 12 stores, for example, an OS for controlling the entire purchase support device 1, various drivers for operating the hardware of peripheral devices, applications for realizing the purchase support device 1, and various data and files. Examples of the auxiliary storage device 12 include semiconductor memory, magnetic disks, and magneto-optical disks.

[0021] The client terminal 70 is an information processing device used by a user who wishes to purchase a plant part, in this embodiment, a fluid transport system composed of a plurality of plant parts. The client terminal 70 is, for example, a desktop PC, a notebook PC, a tablet PC, a tablet terminal, a mobile phone terminal, a smartphone, or the like. The configuration of the client terminal 70 is publicly known, so a detailed description will be omitted. However, like the above-mentioned purchase support device 1, the client terminal 70 includes a CPU, an auxiliary storage device, a main memory, a communication device, and an input unit. Furthermore, the client terminal 70 includes a display unit (liquid crystal display, organic EL display, etc.). Furthermore, the client terminal 70 may include a microphone and a speaker. The auxiliary storage device stores, for example, an OS for controlling the client terminal 70 such as Windows (registered trademark), iOS (registered trademark), Android (registered trademark), various drivers for operating the hardware of peripheral devices, applications for implementing the functions of the client terminal 70 described later, and various data and files.

[0022] The supplier terminal 80 is an information processing device used by a supplier who sells plant parts. Here, "supplier" means, for example, a company that manufactures and sells plant parts. When a plant part manufacturing company sells its own products through a trading company as an agent, the combination of the plant part manufacturing company and the trading company is called a "supplier."

[0023] The supplier terminal 80 is, for example, a desktop PC, a notebook PC, a tablet PC, a tablet terminal, a mobile phone terminal, a smartphone, etc. The configuration of the supplier terminal 80 is known, so a detailed description will be omitted. However, like the above-mentioned purchase support device 1, the supplier terminal 80 includes a CPU, an auxiliary storage device, a main memory, a communication device, and an input unit. Furthermore, the supplier terminal 80 includes a display unit (liquid crystal display, organic EL display, etc.). Furthermore, the supplier terminal 80 may include a microphone and a speaker. The auxiliary storage device stores, for example, an OS for controlling the entire supplier terminal 80 such as Windows (registered trademark), iOS (registered trademark), Android (registered trademark), etc., various drivers for operating the hardware of peripheral devices, applications for implementing the functions of the supplier terminal 80 described later, and various data and files.

[0024] Next, the functions of the purchase support device 1 according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 3 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of the functions of the purchase support device 1 according to this embodiment. A series of processes for realizing each function shown below is stored as a program (e.g., a purchase support program) in the auxiliary storage device 12 of the purchase support device 1, and the CPU 11 reads this program into the main memory 13 and executes it to realize various functions. The program may be pre-installed in the auxiliary storage device 12 of the purchase support device 1, provided in a state stored in a computer-readable storage medium, or distributed via wired or wireless communication means. The computer-readable storage medium may be a magnetic disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a semiconductor memory, or the like.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3, the purchase support device 1 may include a standard parts database 21 and a supplier parts database 22. The purchase support device 1 may also include a fluid calculation block database 23 and an order database 24. The purchase support device 1 may also include a condition input support unit 31, a standard system configuration generation unit 32, a standard system selection unit 33, a system parts selection unit 34, a selection candidate generation unit 35, a system configuration generation unit 36, a specification confirmation unit 37, and an order support unit 38. The purchase support device 1 may also include a selection condition storage unit 41, a system configuration storage unit 42, a parts candidate storage unit 43, and a selected parts storage unit 44 as storage areas for storing various data when selecting system parts. Each unit will be described below. For ease of understanding, a case where a fluid transport system that transports water from an existing (existing) tank to another existing tank is newly installed will be described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the same handling is possible for any fluid and any equipment and parts that the fluid flows in and out of.

[0026] [Standard Parts Database 21] The standard parts database 21 stores information on a plurality of standard parts related to a fluid transport system. For example, the standard parts database 21 stores representative specification information, which is information on a representative specification of each plant part, in association with the functions of the part. The representative specification information is determined in advance based on the specifications of each plant part provided by each supplier, for example. For example, in the case of a pump, the representative specification is determined in advance based on the bore (inlet / outlet) and the motor output. Fig. 4 shows an example of information stored in the standard parts database 21 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the standard parts database 21 registers standard part names, part types, representative specification information, and functions in association with one another. Also, here, a distinction is made between part types and representative specification information, but the part types may be incorporated into the representative specification information and may be part of the representative specification information. Here, the "function" corresponds to a "required function" inputted in the condition input support unit 31 described later. A standard part associated with a "function" corresponding to the "required function" selected by the user in the condition input support unit 31 described later is selected as an element part of the fluid transport system. In order to make this information easy to extract, the standard parts database 21 may store and process representative specification information linked to the standard part name as a key (a landmark name), for example (hereinafter referred to as a "map format").

[0027] [Supplier Parts Database 22] The supplier parts database 22 stores information on supplier parts sold by suppliers. For example, the supplier parts database 22 stores, for each supplier, the model numbers and specification data of the plant parts sold by that supplier in association with each other. The model numbers of the plant parts may further be associated with information on the product name, price, and delivery date. The model numbers of the plant parts may further be associated with option information. Fig. 5 shows an example of supplier part information stored in the supplier part database 22 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 5, the model number, product name, specification information, price, and delivery date are registered for each supplier in the supplier part database 22 in such a manner that they are associated with each other. In the supplier part database 22, this information may be managed as data in, for example, a map format.

[0028] The price and delivery date information can be updated by each supplier at any time. This makes it possible to create a quotation using the latest data. This makes it possible to provide a highly reliable quotation to the user. In addition to the price of the plant parts, various expenses required for shipping the product may also be registered.

[0029] Examples of option information include optional products (consumables, special tools, etc.), technical support services such as dispatching an instructor during installation, operational adjustments during trial runs, and troubleshooting, and specification upgrade services (for example, corrosion-resistant build-up, high-quality paint, additional inspections, additional submitted drawings, etc.). In addition, the option information may include detailed information associated with various options. For example, detailed information on spare parts includes delivery time, price, replacement time, etc. In addition, detailed information on technical support and optional services includes provision time, price, features, benefits, precautions, etc.

[0030] [Fluid calculation block database 23] The fluid calculation block database 23 stores a plurality of calculation blocks in which standard parts (e.g., standard part names) are associated with standard calculation expressions. The fluid calculation block database 23 also stores a plurality of calculation blocks in which supplier parts (e.g., supplier model numbers) provided by each supplier are associated with the supplier's unique calculation expressions. In each calculation block, for example, a pressure loss calculation formula for calculating the outlet pressure from the fluid pressure at the inlet of a component is registered.

[0031] [Order Database 24] The order database 24 stores, for example, information about orders for each user. Information about orders includes past order history, current order reservation information, order status, etc. By checking the contents of the order database 24, it is possible to know what plant parts each user has purchased and what they are planning to purchase in the future.

[0032] [Condition input support unit 31] The condition input support unit 31 acquires the required specifications and required functions of the fluid transport system that the user wishes to purchase as selection conditions. For example, the required specifications include at least one of the inlet side design temperature, the inlet side design pressure, the outlet side design temperature, and the outlet side design temperature. The required specifications may also include existing operating conditions. The existing operating conditions include at least one of the inlet side tank pressure, the water surface height, and the fluid temperature, and the outlet side tank pressure, for example. Required functions are functions that the user wants the fluid transport system to have, and examples include a backflow prevention function, an inlet partition function, an outlet partition function, a pump inlet pressure measurement function, a pump outlet pressure measurement function, a flow measurement function, a function to prevent foreign matter from entering the pump, a drain removal function, etc.

[0033] Furthermore, the selection conditions may include at least one of the following: the type of fluid to be transported, the driving source of the fluid, information on the start point and end point of the transport of the fluid, the applicable standard, and the pipe joint specifications. The selection conditions may also include desired selection conditions for plant parts and prioritized examination conditions. For example, an example of a choice of prioritized examination conditions is a flow rate or a pipe diameter. The larger the pipe diameter, the smaller the pressure loss when the fluid flows and the smaller the loss during operation, but the larger the pipe diameter, the higher the material cost and the larger the required space. When planning a fluid transport system, it is necessary to comprehensively evaluate the performance during operation, material cost, spatial feasibility, delivery date, etc., and determine the optimal solution. The desired selection conditions and prioritized examination conditions are intended to quickly obtain examination results that are close to the conditions desired by the user.

[0034] Examples of the type of fluid include air, gas, water, saturated water, saturated steam, superheated steam, etc. Examples of the driving source of the fluid include a fan, a pump, potential energy, etc. Examples of information on the start point of fluid transport include start point coordinates, connection destination, and connection specifications. Examples of connection destinations when transporting liquid include the pipe stub at the bottom of the tank (below the liquid level), the pipe stub at the tank body (below the liquid level), and the valve outlet (below the liquid level). Examples of connection specifications include flanges, threaded, unions, and welding. Examples of information on the end point of fluid transport include end point coordinates, connection destination, and connection specifications. Examples of connection destinations when transporting liquid include the pipe stub at the top of the tank (above the liquid level), the pipe stub at the tank body (above the liquid level), the pipe stub at the tank body (below the liquid level), the valve inlet (above the liquid level), and the valve inlet (below the liquid level). Examples of connection specifications include flanges, threaded, unions, and welding.

[0035] Applicable standards include, for example, JIS, ASME, ANSI, JPI, etc. Examples of joint specifications include flange, threaded, union, and welded. The desired selection conditions for the plant parts include, for example, a required flow rate, a design pressure, a design temperature, a desired pipe diameter, a desired minimum pipe diameter, and a desired maximum pipe diameter. Priority conditions to be considered include, for example, flow rate and pipe diameter.

[0036] The selection conditions may also include various information related to delivery, such as the allowable latest delivery date, the allowable maximum price, and the desired delivery destination, packaging specifications, and transportation method. In this way, by inputting the allowable latest delivery date and the allowable maximum price as selection conditions, it is possible to eliminate delivery dates and prices that do not meet the user's wishes. This makes it possible to improve user convenience and reduce the computational burden on the purchase support device 1.

[0037] For example, the condition input support unit 31 generates screen data for displaying a condition input screen for inputting these selection conditions on the client terminal 70, and transmits the screen data to the client terminal 70. The selection conditions may be input in an interactive format, for example. Also, the input may be prompted using diagrams or the like so that even an inexperienced engineer can easily input the selection conditions and can easily grasp the image.

[0038] 6 to 17 are diagrams showing examples of interactive condition input screens generated by the condition input support unit 31. The condition input support unit 31 causes the client terminal 70 to sequentially display the condition input screens shown in Fig. 6 to 17, thereby allowing the user to input necessary conditions and acquiring information required for selecting plant parts that constitute the fluid transport system.

[0039] FIG. 6 is a condition input screen for selecting the purchase item, FIG. 7 is a condition input screen for selecting the type of fluid, FIG. 8 is a condition input screen for selecting the drive source of the fluid, FIG. 9 is a condition input screen for inputting the coordinates of the start point and end point of the fluid transport, FIG. 10 is a condition input screen for selecting the connection destination and connection specifications of the start point of the fluid transport, FIG. 11 is a condition input screen for selecting the connection destination and connection specifications of the end point of the fluid transport, FIG. 12 is a condition input screen for selecting the applicable standard, FIG. 13 is a condition input screen for selecting the fitting specifications, FIG. 14 is a condition input screen for selecting additional functions (required functions), FIG. 15 is a condition input screen for inputting existing design conditions, FIG. 16 is a condition input screen for inputting existing operating conditions, and FIG. 17 is a condition input screen for inputting the desired selection conditions and prioritized consideration conditions. For ease of understanding, the following description uses an example of installing a new fluid transport system that transports water from an existing (pre-existing) tank to another existing tank. Therefore, in Figures 15 and 16, the design conditions and operating conditions of the existing system are input. However, in the case of a new installation, the design conditions and operating conditions of the new system may be input.

[0040] For input of the selection conditions, multiple input modes may be provided. For example, multiple input modes may be presented to the user, and the user may select one of them. Then, the condition input support unit 31 may generate a condition input screen according to the input mode selected by the user, and transmit the screen to the client terminal 70.

[0041] Examples of input modes include a detailed input mode, a simple input mode, and a model number input mode. The detailed input mode is a mode in which all conditions required for a supplier to select a part are generally input. This mode is intended for users who are familiar with engineering in fluid transport systems. The simple input mode is a mode in which input items are limited to the main items for inexperienced users. For example, some of the conditions input in the detailed input mode are omitted. The model number input mode is a mode in which a supplier name or model number is input, and is intended for users who wish to purchase the same parts as existing plant parts, or users who have already decided on a model number for which they want to research a supplier's catalog, etc. In this way, by providing a plurality of input modes and allowing the user to select the desired input mode, it becomes possible to provide services that correspond to the user's engineering capabilities and needs.

[0042] [Input assistance section] The condition input support unit 31 may include, for example, an input assistance unit 311 (see FIG. 3). The input assistance unit 311 provisionally inputs, among a plurality of selection conditions, a selection condition that has not been input by the user based on past accumulated data or a preset initial value. For example, the input assistance unit 311 holds initial values ​​related to design conditions and operating conditions in advance, and provisionally inputs the initial values ​​when no selection conditions are input for the design conditions and operating conditions. Also, instead of the initial values, representative values ​​based on past performance values, etc. may be provisionally input.

[0043] Furthermore, the input assistance unit 311 may ask the user questions according to a predetermined question flow, and have the user input the missing selection conditions in an interactive format in which the user answers the questions. Also, when the input assistance unit 311 performs provisional input, the provisionally input conditions may be presented to the user to have the user confirm whether or not they deviate from the user's expectations.

[0044] For example, since plant parts have constraints not only on the part itself, such as shape and strength, but also on the fluid flowing inside, a certain degree of experience is required to select appropriate parts. For this reason, an inexperienced user may not know what conditions to set and may find it difficult to set conditions independently. In such a case, by providing an input assistance unit 311 to assist the user in inputting, even a user with little engineering experience in fluid transport systems can input appropriate conditions required for arranging plant parts.

[0045] [Selection condition storage unit 41] Selection conditions such as required specifications and required functions acquired by the condition input support unit 31 are stored in the selection condition storage unit 41. For example, the selection conditions may be stored in a map format. For example, the selection conditions are stored by associating conditions input by the user with each of the main items such as inlet conditions, outlet conditions, required functions, design pressure temperature, and required specifications. In addition, new information may be added to the selection conditions by performing a predetermined calculation based on the conditions acquired from the user. For example, in the selection of plant parts, a nominal pressure (temperature pressure rating) is calculated from the set pressure and set temperature, and parts are selected using the nominal pressure. For this reason, the selection conditions may include a nominal pressure (temperature pressure rating) based on the set pressure and set temperature acquired from the client terminal 70.

[0046] [Standard system configuration generation unit 32] The standard system configuration generating unit 32 identifies a plurality of standard parts constituting a fluid transport system from the standard parts database 21 based on the selection conditions stored in the selection condition storage unit 41, and generates a standard system configuration diagram by connecting the identified plurality of standard parts. Specifically, the standard system configuration generating unit 32 generates a standard system configuration diagram, which is a system configuration diagram of a fluid transport system, by arranging the identified plurality of standard parts on a fluid transport path from the transport start point to the transport end point.

[0047] Specifically, the standard system configuration generating unit 32 acquires corresponding standard parts from the standard parts database 21 based on information on the selection conditions (e.g., required functions, pipe diameter, rating, connection style).Then, the acquired standard parts are arranged in order on the fluid transport path to generate a standard system configuration diagram.At this time, the fluid transport path is generated based on the start point coordinates, end point coordinates, existing specifications, etc., and the start point to the end point are connected by piping based on the value input as the desired pipe diameter.

[0048] When the standard system configuration generating unit 32 generates the standard system configuration diagram, it generates a standard system configuration adjustment screen including the standard system configuration diagram, and displays this screen data on the display unit of the client terminal 70. Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the standard system configuration adjustment screen. The standard system configuration adjustment screen displays the standard system configuration diagram generated based on the selection conditions, as well as information such as the required functions, required specifications, and existing specifications that are the selection conditions for the standard system configuration diagram. In the standard system configuration diagram shown in Fig. 18, each block surrounded by a dashed line is a component block corresponding to each standard component.

[0049] In this standard system configuration adjustment screen, the standard system configuration diagram is configured so that the user can perform at least one of adding piping, changing the route, changing the position and arrangement order of part blocks, and adding and deleting required functions, etc. Note that, although shown as a two-dimensional system configuration diagram in Fig. 18, it may be displayed as a three-dimensional system configuration diagram such as an isometric drawing using an isometric projection or a 3D display. The user creates a desired system configuration diagram by performing operations such as moving component blocks on this system configuration adjustment screen and changing the dimensions of the pipes connecting the component blocks, and when the drawing is completed, presses the send button BT1. This causes the information on the system configuration diagram confirmed by the user to be sent to the purchase support device 1.

[0050] Furthermore, when drawings (e.g., 2D CAD data, 3D CAD data, etc.) of peripheral parts on which the fluid transport system is to be installed are provided to the purchase support device 1, these peripheral parts may be displayed as part of the standard system configuration diagram as a background. In this way, by displaying the peripheral parts as a background, it becomes possible to place the standard parts in appropriate positions, taking into consideration the placement of the peripheral parts, etc.

[0051] Also, for example, there are cases where plant components have restrictions on the equipment configuration and straight pipe length upstream and downstream. For example, an orifice flow meter has a restriction that a certain straight pipe length must be secured before and after it in order to keep the measurement error within a standard. Also, when arranging different types of instruments, there is a desirable installation order. For example, a thermometer is a factor that disturbs the flow of the fluid because the measurement point is inserted into the fluid, and may affect the measurement results of pressure and flow rate. For this reason, there is a restriction that the thermometer must be installed downstream of the pressure gauge or flow meter. Also, for an electromagnetic flow meter, the flow measurement part must always be filled with fluid, so there are restrictions on the piping route. Also, for a safety valve, if the pressure loss in the wake is too high, in other words, if the piping is too thin or too long, the planned blowing volume cannot be secured, so there are restrictions on the length and diameter of the piping.

[0052] For this reason, the standard system configuration generating unit 32 may have a function of determining the appropriateness of the placement of the standard parts and their positional relationships with surrounding parts, taking into account the constraints as described above, and displaying standard parts that need to be changed or that should be changed in different colors according to their importance in the standard system configuration diagram. In this way, by supporting the user in changing the positions of standard parts, it is possible to contribute to preventing malfunctions and reducing the number of man-hours required for consideration.

[0053] The standard system configuration generating unit 32 may also have a function of proposing changes to standard parts, such as proposing that, if a flange joint does not fit, changing to a welded joint will result in the dimensions falling within a specified range.

[0054] Furthermore, the standard system configuration generating unit 32 may have a function of visually proposing an improvement plan for the piping route that is less expensive or has almost the same price on the current standard system configuration adjustment screen. The user may be allowed to select one or more evaluation axes here, and may be able to select not only price but also delivery time, low pressure loss, suitability, recommendation level, short piping length, and the like. Also, the improvement plan may be visually proposed based on the results of machine learning. This makes it possible to provide the user with the optimal piping route, thereby reducing the user's workload.

[0055] Furthermore, the standard system configuration generating unit 32 may have a function of displaying the predicted result of the change in evaluation of a predetermined evaluation axis around the selected plant part as a different color when the plant part is selected in order to move the position of the plant part. In this way, by visually presenting the destination of the plant part, the user can easily determine the placement of the standard part. Examples of the evaluation axis include possibility of price improvement, no price fluctuation, and concern level of price fluctuation: small, medium, large, etc. Furthermore, if there is an area that cannot be moved based on the instrument specifications, the area may be visually presented.

[0056] Furthermore, the standard system configuration generating unit 32 may have a function of increasing the evaluation of a preset evaluation axis or proposing an improvement plan for the evaluation axis. This can be expected to improve not only the ingenuity that contributes to optimizing the spatial layout, but also the specifications of the plant parts by reviewing them. For example, such a proposal can be realized based on past cases or machine learning results accumulated by the purchasing support device 1, or typical improvement patterns registered in advance.

[0057] Furthermore, the standard system configuration generating unit 32 may have a function of estimating typical man-hours from the specifications of the joints of each selected standard part and information on the piping route, calculating with a general man-hour unit price, estimating construction costs, and displaying the total together with the price of arranging the system. Furthermore, the estimated man-hours may be one of the evaluation axes. In this way, by preparing an evaluation axis including the construction cost, it is possible to contribute to reducing the total cost when the user introduces the system.

[0058] [System configuration storage unit 42] The system configuration storage unit 42 stores information based on a standard system configuration diagram determined by a user. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of information stored in the system configuration storage unit 42. As shown in FIG. 19, the system configuration storage unit 42 stores information on each standard part constituting the fluid transport system in a list in order of connection from top to bottom. The information on each standard part may include a block name, a standard part name, a pipe nominal diameter (dimension), a nominal pressure (temperature and pressure rating), a coordinate of a start point, a coordinate of an end point, and a length. This information is created based on the specification information of each standard part stored in the standard part database 21. The system configuration storage unit 42 may further store a reference delivery date, a reference price, and the like in association with each other. In this manner, the system configuration storage unit 42 registers information (dimensions (nominal diameter), nominal pressure (temperature and pressure rating), coordinate information, etc.) necessary for the subsequent process of part selection in an associated manner.

[0059] [Standard System Selection Section 33] The standard system selection unit 33 generates multiple standard system configuration candidates by selecting multiple standard parts with different specifications for major standard parts that are preset among the standard parts stored in the system configuration storage unit 42. Examples of major standard parts include pumps and piping.

[0060] Furthermore, the standard system selection unit 33 acquires calculation blocks corresponding to standard parts, which are the element parts, for each of the multiple standard system configuration candidates from the fluid calculation block database 23, and generates a calculation block chain by connecting the acquired calculation blocks according to the connection order. Then, the standard system selection unit 33 calculates the outlet conditions of the fluid transport system, such as the outlet conditions of the pressure, temperature, and flow rate, by providing input conditions, such as the inlet conditions of the pressure, temperature, and flow rate, to the calculation block chain.

[0061] An example of a calculation block chain is shown in Fig. 20. In Fig. 20, for example, "Piping" indicates a standard piping calculation block, "Bv" indicates a standard ball valve calculation block, "Tpiece" indicates a standard T-piece calculation block, "Pump" indicates a standard pump calculation block (including a reducer for adjusting the aperture), "FT" indicates a standard flow meter calculation block, and "Elbow" indicates a standard elbow calculation block.

[0062] The standard system selection unit 33 inputs the input conditions of the fluid, specifically, pressure, temperature, and flow rate, to the first calculation block BL1 of the calculation block chain. The outlet conditions calculated in the first calculation block BL1 are given as input conditions to the next calculation block BL2. Then, the calculation of the outlet conditions is performed sequentially in the order in which the calculation blocks are connected, and the output conditions are finally calculated in the calculation block BLn, which is the final end point. This output condition becomes the outlet condition of the entire system in the standard system configuration candidate. Note that, although the temperature, flow rate, and pressure are input as the inlet conditions, it is also possible to assume that the temperature and flow rate are constant from the inlet to the outlet and calculate only the pressure loss. The standard system selection unit 33 generates a calculation block chain for each of a plurality of standard system configuration candidates, and calculates the outlet conditions of each fluid transport system.

[0063] In addition, the standard system selection unit 33 may have other calculation functions, such as a fluid flow diagnosis function at the highest point, an NPSH (Net Positive Suction Head) calculation function, a hammer diagnosis function, a noise calculation function, and a validity diagnosis function for the design pressure temperature of each component. The fluid flow diagnosis function at the highest point identifies the coordinate information of the highest point of the fluid transport system and the component from the coordinate information of each standard component, and determines whether the pressure conditions of the inlet condition and the outlet condition in the calculation block corresponding to the component are equal to or higher than a predetermined threshold. This makes it possible to confirm whether a flow rate equal to or higher than the minimum flow rate can be ensured in the component at the highest point when transporting a fluid using the selected standard component. In addition, if it is determined that the minimum flow rate cannot be ensured, for example, the specifications of the pump in the standard system configuration candidate may be changed so that the minimum flow rate can be ensured in the component at the highest point.

[0064] In addition, the NPSH calculation function determines whether or not the constraints on the suction side of the pump or compressor are met, the noise calculation function determines whether or not the noise is below a specified threshold, and the hammer diagnosis function determines whether or not there is a possibility of the hammer phenomenon (water hammer phenomenon) occurring. In addition, the function of diagnosing the validity of the design pressure temperature of each component is a function that judges whether the operating pressure temperature of each component is below the design pressure temperature, in other words, whether the operating conditions are within the range of the nominal pressure of each component. For example, when pressure is increased by a pump, the nominal pressure of the plant components downstream of the pump may change depending on the performance of the pump. By diagnosing the validity of the design pressure temperature of each component in consideration of such cases, it is possible to inform the user of the need to select appropriate components, for example, components that can withstand higher pressures. The standard system selection unit 33 generates a standard system selection screen for each standard system configuration candidate, which shows information on the main standard components (pump specifications, flow rate, standard pipe nominal diameter) and the relationship characteristics between the flow rate and head (head), and transmits it to the client terminal 70.

[0065] FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of a standard system selection screen. The standard system selection screen displays the assumed operating conditions for each standard system configuration candidate. Specifically, the standard system selection screen displays the pump model, flow rate, nominal standard pipe diameter, and flow velocity for each standard system configuration candidate. In addition, the diagnosis results of each of the above-mentioned calculation functions, for example, the diagnosis result of whether the minimum flow rate can be secured at the highest reach point, the calculation result of NPSH, the hammer risk, the noise level, the validity diagnosis result of the design pressure temperature of each part, etc. may also be displayed as one of the judgment materials. By displaying the diagnostic results from each calculation function in this manner, the user can be provided with information to make decisions based on a variety of perspectives, enabling the user to select a standard system configuration candidate that best suits their needs. Furthermore, the standard system selection screen may also display information such as price and delivery time.

[0066] The standard system selection screen may also display the operating point of the entire system. In Fig. 21, the operating point of the entire system is displayed on a graph (for example, as an intersection of the performance curve and the resistance curve on the Q (flow rate)-H (head) plane). This operating point is calculated taking into account the output conditions of the system calculated in the calculation block chain. In this way, by presenting the operating points and specification information of the entire system to the user, the user can select and procure a set of multiple plant parts that make up the fluid transport system in the same way as selecting each individual plant part. In addition, the user can also consider the configuration of surrounding equipment.

[0067] Furthermore, the standard system selection screen may be provided with an input section for instructing to increase or decrease the flow rate condition and an input section for instructing to increase or decrease the diameter condition of the pipe when the presented standard system configuration candidates do not have the desired one. When these input sections are operated, standard parts are specified again according to the input instructions, multiple standard system configuration candidates are newly generated, and the above-mentioned calculation of the outlet condition and the like is performed for each standard system configuration candidate. On the standard system selection screen, the user selects one of the standard system configuration candidates that meets the user's needs and presses the send button BT2. This causes information on the standard system configuration candidate selected by the user to be sent to the purchase support device 1.

[0068] The standard system selection unit 33 updates the information in the system configuration storage unit 42 based on the information of the standard system configuration candidate selected by the user. That is, the various information (such as the names and specification data of the standard parts constituting the fluid transport system) shown in Fig. 19 is updated based on the information of the standard system configuration candidate selected by the user.

[0069] [System Component Selection Section 34] The system component selection unit 34 selects one or more supplier parts corresponding to each standard component constituting the standard system configuration diagram from the supplier component database 22. Specifically, the system component selection unit 34 selects plant parts (hereinafter referred to as "supplier parts") corresponding to each standard component stored in the system configuration storage unit 42 from the supplier component database 22. At this time, it is preferable that the system component selection unit 34 selects multiple supplier parts sold by different suppliers for each standard component. For example, the system parts selection unit 34 selects multiple supplier parts that meet the conditions for each standard part based on the standard part name and specification data (e.g., design pressure, design temperature, nominal diameter, etc.), and obtains the price, delivery date, and option information of the supplier parts from the supplier parts database 22. For example, in the case of a valve, a supplier part is selected based on the nominal pressure and size (e.g., nominal diameter).

[0070] Here, some suppliers may require unique requirements when selecting supplier parts, and in this case, it is necessary to inquire about the information from the user. In such a case, the system parts selection unit 34 may inquire about additional input from the user by displaying an input form or the like for inputting the necessary information on the client terminal 70.

[0071] In this way, the system component selection unit 34 selects one or more supplier parts (e.g., supplier parts from companies A, B, C, etc.) corresponding to each standard component such as pipes, ball valves, pumps, etc., and then stores information about the selected supplier parts in the component candidate storage unit 43 in association with each standard component.

[0072] [Part candidate storage unit 43] The part candidate storage unit 43 stores information on supplier parts in association with each block constituting the standard system configuration diagram. Fig. 22 is a diagram showing an example of data stored in the part candidate storage unit 43. As shown in Fig. 22, the part candidate storage unit 43 stores the supplier, model number, product name, specification information, price and delivery date information in association with the component (block name). Here, the supplier, model number, product name, specification information, price and delivery date information can be written by writing the information obtained from the supplier part database 22 (see Fig. 5).

[0073] [Selection candidate generation unit 35] The selection candidate generation unit 35 generates multiple system configuration candidates, which are combinations of supplier parts that make up the fluid transport system, based on multiple supplier parts stored in the part candidate memory unit 43, generates a comparison selection screen on which the multiple system configuration candidates are displayed for comparison, and provides it to the client terminal 70. Specifically, the selection candidate generating unit 35 generates multiple system configuration candidates according to a predetermined evaluation criterion from multiple supplier parts stored in the part candidate storage unit 43. Examples of the evaluation criterion include the lowest price, shortest delivery time, low price and short delivery time, and recommendation.

[0074] The lowest price is a candidate combination of supplier parts with the lowest total price of the plant parts constituting the fluid transport system, and the shortest delivery time is a combination of supplier parts with the shortest delivery time of the plant parts constituting the fluid transport system. The low price and short delivery time are evaluated from both the price and delivery time, and are, for example, the combination of supplier parts with the highest evaluation value obtained by substituting each value into an evaluation value calculation formula including the price and delivery time as parameters. The recommendation is, for example, the combination of parts with the highest overall evaluation value obtained by adding other evaluation indexes in addition to the price and delivery time. For example, the evaluation values ​​of the price, delivery time, and word-of-mouth (past evaluation information by users) are substituted into a predetermined evaluation value calculation formula to calculate an overall evaluation value for each supplier part, and the combination of supplier parts with the highest calculated overall evaluation value is identified.

[0075] The evaluation value calculation formula can be set arbitrarily. For example, each item may be evaluated on a scale of 10 points, and the values ​​may be added together, or a weighting factor may be set for each item, and the scores for each item may be multiplied by the weighting factor and the sum of the results may be used. In addition, machine learning may be performed using the past performance of the operator of the purchase support device 1, past performance of similar designs, or past performance of the operation of the purchase support device 1, and the items may be displayed in order of recommendation from those closest to the machine learning result.

[0076] When the selection candidate generating unit 35 generates a plurality of system configuration candidates based on each evaluation criterion, it generates a comparison and selection screen on which these candidates are displayed so as to be compared, and transmits the comparison and selection screen to the client terminal 70.

[0077] Fig. 23 is a diagram showing an example of a comparison and selection screen. In the comparison and selection screen shown in Fig. 23, the system configuration candidate with the lowest price is displayed as pattern 1, the system configuration candidate with the shortest delivery time is displayed as pattern 2, the system configuration candidate evaluated from the viewpoints of both low price and short delivery time is displayed as pattern 3, and the recommended system configuration candidate is displayed as pattern 4. In addition, for each system configuration candidate, the supplier, product name, price, delivery time, and user evaluation of each plant part are displayed. In Fig. 23, piping, ball valves, and pumps are displayed as examples of plant parts. In this comparison and selection screen, the user can select one or more desired patterns (system configuration candidates).

[0078] In addition, the comparison and selection screen is provided with an individual selection button BT3. This individual selection button BT3 is a button for transitioning to an individual selection screen where the user can select each plant part for each system configuration candidate. FIG. 24 shows an example of the individual selection screen. In the individual selection screen, information on supplier parts is displayed for each component constituting the fluid transport system, in other words, for each block shown in the standard system configuration diagram. In addition, each supplier part can be displayed in order of price, delivery date, or recommendation. The display order can be switched by switching tabs. In this way, the user can change (customize) each supplier part in the selected pattern to a desired supplier part by selecting one of the patterns (system configuration candidates) on the comparison and selection screen shown in FIG. 23 and then pressing the individual selection button BT3.

[0079] The user customizes individual components of each system configuration candidate on the individual selection screen as necessary, and then selects one or more system configuration candidates on the comparison and selection screen and presses the confirm button BT4. As a result, information on one or more system configuration candidates selected by the user is transmitted to the purchase support device 1. Information on one or more system configuration candidates selected by the user in this manner is stored in the selected parts storage unit 44 with the components and supplier part information associated with each system configuration candidate.

[0080] Furthermore, the selection candidate generating unit 35 may display, as an index when the user selects a system configuration candidate, evaluation values ​​such as the amount of carbon dioxide emission and greenhouse gas emission of the system. These evaluation values ​​may be for either the operation or non-operation state, or for both. By targeting both states, it is possible to provide evaluation values ​​throughout the product life cycle.

[0081] For example, the selection candidate generating unit 35 can calculate the carbon dioxide emission amount by the following method. -The system calculates the power consumption of the entire system based on the specifications of each supplier's parts that make up each system configuration candidate and the operation plan entered by the user (such as information on annual operation hours), and multiplies this by the amount of carbon dioxide generated per unit of electricity to calculate the amount of carbon dioxide emissions during operation. -Calculate the amount of carbon dioxide emissions related to the manufacture, transportation, and disposal of each plant part based on data on greenhouse gas emissions related to the manufacture and disposal of each plant part. In this way, by presenting the carbon dioxide emission amount as one indicator for selecting a system configuration candidate, the user can select a system configuration candidate while taking the carbon dioxide emission amount into consideration.

[0082] [Selected parts storage unit 44] As described above, the selected parts storage unit 44 stores information on supplier parts corresponding to each component constituting the system for each system configuration candidate. Furthermore, the selected parts storage unit 44 stores coordinate information corresponding to each supplier part. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of data of system configuration candidates stored in the selected parts storage unit 44. As shown in FIG. 25, the selected parts storage unit 44 registers information on supplier parts corresponding to each plant part in association with coordinate information. The supplier part information is information obtained from the part candidate storage unit 43, for example, and the coordinate information is information obtained from the system configuration storage unit 42. In addition, in the selected parts storage unit 44, the supplier parts may be stored in a list in the order in which the plant parts are arranged from the transfer start point to the transfer end point in the system configuration diagram shown in FIG.

[0083] [System configuration generation unit 36] The system configuration generating unit 36 ​​generates a system configuration diagram that connects the transportation start point to the transportation end point for each system configuration candidate based on the information of the supplier parts of each system configuration candidate stored in the selected parts storage unit 44 and the coordinate information, generates a system configuration adjustment screen that can display each generated system configuration diagram, and transmits this screen data to the client terminal 70. FIG. 26 shows an example of the system configuration adjustment screen. As shown in FIG. 26, the system configuration adjustment screen displays detailed information of the selected parts together with the system configuration diagram generated using the supplier parts. The system configuration diagram shown in FIG. 26 includes a piping adjustment part (modification part). This shows the piping error caused by adopting the supplier parts instead of the standard parts. In addition, when a plurality of system configuration candidates are selected by the user on the above-mentioned comparison selection screen (see FIG. 23), a display switching unit 50 for switching the system configuration diagram to be displayed on the client terminal 70 is displayed. The user can switch the system configuration diagram to be displayed on the display screen by operating this display switching unit 50.

[0084] Here, the standard system configuration diagram shown in FIG. 18 is created using standard parts, whereas the system configuration diagram shown in FIG. 26 is created using supplier parts. Therefore, due to an error between the typical specifications of the standard parts and the specifications of the supplier parts, the position of the transfer end point may differ from the coordinates of the transfer end point requested by the user. Therefore, the error is shown in the system configuration diagram as a piping adjustment part, and the user is allowed to adjust the position of each element part (pump, etc.) and the length of the piping so that the piping adjustment part is not required. This makes it possible to eliminate the error that occurs when using supplier parts, and to satisfy the conditions of the transfer start point and transfer end point input on the request input screen (see FIG. 9). When the user finishes adjusting each system configuration diagram, he / she presses the send button BT5. This sends information about the adjusted system configuration diagram, specifically, the adjusted coordinate information and length of each component for each system configuration candidate, to the purchase support device 1. When the system configuration generation unit 36 ​​receives the adjusted information, it updates the coordinate information and length of each element part stored in the selected parts storage unit 44 based on this information.

[0085] [Specification Verification Section 37] The specification checking unit 37 performs a new performance calculation for each system configuration candidate based on the data of the adjusted system configuration diagram, i.e., the updated data stored in the selected part storage unit 44. For example, the specification checking unit 37 acquires a calculation block corresponding to each supplier part stored in the selected part storage unit 44 from among a plurality of calculation blocks stored in the fluid calculation block database 23, and connects the acquired calculation blocks based on the arrangement order to generate a calculation block chain. Then, the specification checking unit 37 calculates the outlet condition (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow rate) of the fluid transport system by giving input conditions (e.g., pressure, temperature, flow rate) to the created calculation block chain. In addition, the specification checking unit 37 may have other calculation functions such as a fluid flow diagnosis function at the highest point, a NPSH calculation function, a hammer diagnosis function, a noise calculation function, and a validity diagnosis result of the design pressure temperature of each part.

[0086] When the performance calculation for each system configuration candidate is completed, the specification confirmation unit 37 generates a final confirmation screen displaying the performance calculation results, etc. for each system configuration candidate, and transmits it to the client terminal 70. As a result, the final confirmation screen is displayed on the display unit of the client terminal 70. Fig. 27 is a diagram showing an example of a final confirmation screen. As shown in Fig. 27, the final confirmation screen is provided with a display switching unit 51 for switching the system configuration candidates to be displayed. The user can switch the system configuration candidate for which the performance calculation results and the like are displayed on the display screen by pressing the display switching unit 51. Note that instead of this mode, for example, as shown in Fig. 21, the performance calculation results for a plurality of system configuration candidates may be displayed in a comparable mode. Note that when there is one system configuration candidate, the display switching unit 51 is omitted from the final confirmation screen.

[0087] The final confirmation screen displays the operating point when the fluid transport system is configured using the supplier parts. Specifically, the final confirmation screen displays the pump model, flow rate, nominal pipe diameter, and flow velocity. In addition, the diagnosis results of each of the above-mentioned calculation functions, such as a diagnosis result of whether or not the minimum flow rate can be ensured at the highest reach point, NPSH, hammer risk, noise level, and a diagnosis result of the validity of the design pressure temperature of each part, may also be displayed. Furthermore, the final confirmation screen displays price and delivery date information as well as detailed information of the supplier parts (e.g., supplier, model number, product name, price, quantity, etc.). When the user presses the Confirm button BT6 on the final confirmation screen for each system configuration candidate, the order reservation is confirmed and the order reservation information is sent to purchase support device 1.

[0088] [Order Support Department 38] When the order support unit 38 receives the order reservation information from the client terminal 70, it supports the placing of orders for each of the system configuration candidates that have been finally confirmed. First, the order support unit 38 stores information on supplier parts for each system configuration candidate that has been finally confirmed by the user in the order database 24 as order reservation information. The order database 24 stores information on orders for each user. Information on orders includes order reservation information, order history, order status, etc. The order reservation information includes data on supplier parts stored in the selected parts storage unit 44 (see FIG. 25).

[0089] Next, the order support unit 38 generates an order reservation screen based on the order reservation information of each system configuration candidate stored in the order database 24, and transmits it to the client terminal 70. The order reservation screen displays the price, delivery date, and order reservation date of the fluid transport system for each system configuration candidate. The order reservation screen also displays various functions for supporting the user in ordering the system. FIG. 28 is a diagram showing an example of the order reservation screen. The order reservation screen shown in FIG. 28 displays option selection, quotation confirmation, specification confirmation, and quotation update as examples of functions for supporting system ordering. The order reservation screen also has a display switching unit 52 for switching the system configuration candidates to be displayed.

[0090] For example, the option selection is a function of presenting option information of the entire fluid transport system of the system configuration candidate or each supplier part constituting the fluid transport system to the user and allowing the user to select the required option information. For example, when the option selection button BT7 provided on the order reservation screen is pressed by the user, the order support unit 38 causes the client terminal 70 to display an option selection screen for selecting option information. Specifically, the order support unit 38 acquires option information on each supplier part stored in the selected part storage unit 44 from the supplier part database 22, generates an option selection screen showing the acquired option information of each supplier part, and transmits it to the client terminal 70. The option selection screen may include option information of the entire system in addition to the option information of the supplier parts.

[0091] FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of an option selection screen. As shown in FIG. 29, the option selection screen shows option information for the entire system and for each supplier part. The option information includes, for example, option content, price, and delivery date. In the option selection screen shown in FIG. 29, a set of gaskets is arranged as option information for the entire system. For example, a gasket needs to be inserted when fitting flanges. This gasket can be determined, for example, from the type of fluid, the design temperature, and the design pressure. When one or more options are selected by the user on the option selection screen and the confirm button BT12 is pressed, the information on the option selected by the user is transmitted to the purchase support device 1. As a result, the option information (contents, price, delivery date, etc.) selected by the user is stored in the order reservation information of the system configuration candidate.

[0092] In addition, optional information includes sales of parts related to the insulation plan. For example, the type and thickness of insulation may be displayed as optional information. By planning insulation together with the purchase of the fluid transport system, it is possible to support the user in reducing man-hours.

[0093] Also, the quotation confirmation is a function of presenting the user with a quotation of the supplier parts related to the system configuration candidate. For example, when the user presses the quotation confirmation button BT8 provided on the order reservation screen, the order support unit 38 acquires the price and delivery date information of each supplier part constituting the fluid transport system from the order reservation information associated with the system configuration candidate, and creates a quotation based on the acquired information. Also, when option information is registered in the order reservation information, a quotation including the option information is created. Then, a quotation confirmation screen for presenting the quotation to the user is generated and displayed on the client terminal 70. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of the quotation confirmation screen. Also, the quotation confirmation screen may display delivery date information and the expiration date of the quotation.

[0094] Also, a configuration may be adopted in which confirmation from the supplier is required before the quotation confirmation screen is presented to the user. In this case, for example, the order support unit 38 transmits quotation information regarding the quotation to the supplier of each supplier part that constitutes the system configuration candidate. As a result, the quotation information is displayed on the supplier terminal 80 of the supplier. Examples of the quotation information include model number, product name, price, quantity, option information, delivery date, etc. The supplier checks the quotation information displayed on the supplier terminal 80, and if any corrections are necessary, makes the corrections and then performs an input operation for approval, such as pressing an approval button. As a result, the approved quotation information is sent to the purchase support device 1. When the order support unit 38 of the purchase support device 1 acquires the approved quotation information from the supplier terminal, it generates a quotation confirmation screen based on the acquired quotation information and sends it to the client terminal 70. Unlike methods in which quotations are created fully automatically from pre-registered information, this method allows suppliers to set prices and delivery dates based on their own up-to-date inventory and production status, enabling them to submit strategic quotations with a minimum of effort.

[0095] It should be noted that the order support unit 38 may not create the quotation from the order reservation information, but may request the suppliers of the supplier parts that constitute the system configuration candidate to provide quotation information. For example, when a user presses the quotation confirmation button BT8 provided on the order reservation screen, the ordering support unit 38 identifies the supplier of each supplier part that constitutes the system configuration candidate, and transmits a quotation creation request to the supplier terminal 80 of the identified supplier. This quotation creation request includes, for example, the model number, product name, quantity, option information, etc. Each supplier that accepts the quotation creation request creates a quotation based on the quotation creation request and transmits the created quotation to the purchase support device 1. As a result, quotations created by the target suppliers for each supplier part that constitutes the system configuration candidate are transmitted to the purchase support device 1. When the order support unit 38 receives the quotations for each supplier part that constitutes the system configuration candidate, it generates a quotation confirmation screen that can display them all together and transmits it to the client terminal 70. This allows the user to check the quotations created by each supplier.

[0096] The specification confirmation is a function to present the user with the specifications of the supplier parts that are currently scheduled to be ordered. For example, when the user presses the specification confirmation button BT9 on the order reservation screen, the order support unit 38 acquires the specification information of each supplier part that constitutes the fluid transport system from the order reservation information, and creates a specification based on the acquired information. Then, a specification confirmation screen for presenting the specification to the user is generated and displayed on the client terminal 70. As with the quotation described above, the specifications may also be approved by each supplier before generating the specifications confirmation screen, or a request for specification creation may be sent to each supplier and the resulting specifications may be displayed on the client terminal 70.

[0097] Furthermore, the estimate update is a function that allows the user to instruct the update of an estimate based on the current order reservation information for an order reservation whose estimate expiration date is about to expire or whose estimate expiration date has already expired. For example, when the user presses the estimate update button BT10 on the order reservation screen, the order support unit 38 acquires new price and delivery date information for each supplier part that constitutes the fluid transport system from the order reservation information, and updates the estimate based on the acquired information. The updated estimate information is then sent to the client terminal 70, where it is presented to the user. As for updating a quotation, approval may be obtained from each supplier as described above, or a request for quotation creation may be sent to each supplier and the resulting quotation may be displayed on the client terminal 70.

[0098] The user can switch between the system configuration candidates displayed on the display screen by pressing the display switching unit 52, and for each system configuration candidate, can select options, request a quotation, request a quotation specification, update the quotation, etc. by pressing the option selection button BT7, the quotation confirmation button BT8, the specification confirmation button BT9, or the quotation update button BT10. The user compares the estimated cost, delivery time, specifications, etc. of each system configuration candidate, and when he or she decides on one of the system configuration candidates, presses the order button BT11 with the decided system configuration candidate being displayed.

[0099] When the user presses the order button BT11 on the order reservation screen (see FIG. 28), order instruction information instructing an order for the determined system configuration candidate is sent to the purchase support device 1. Upon receiving the order instruction information, the order support unit 38 places an order for supplier parts with each supplier terminal 80 (see FIG. 1) based on the order reservation information for the determined system configuration candidate, and changes the order reservation information to order information. Furthermore, if an inquiry or the like occurs between the user and the supplier even after the order has been completed, information may be exchanged via the purchase support device 1.

[0100] For example, the order support unit 38 may have a function of supporting various inquiries from order placement to delivery, such as inquiries about the delivery location, delivery date and time, etc. This can reduce the burden of making adjustments each time delivery is made, which has been a burden on both users and suppliers in the past.

[0101] The purchase support device 1 may also assist the user in managing delivered items by having the supplier attach an information identification tag or a barcode to the delivered items. For example, since a fluid transport system is composed of multiple supplier parts, there is a possibility that supplier parts will be delivered to the user in sequence from different suppliers. In this case, by providing common system identification information to supplier parts used in the same fluid transport system, the user can easily understand which fluid transport system the received supplier part is an element part of. This system identification information may also be managed in the purchase support device 1.

[0102] Next, a purchase support method according to this embodiment will be briefly described with reference to Fig. 31. A series of processes shown below is stored as a program (e.g., a purchase support program) in the auxiliary storage device 12 provided in the purchase support device 1, and is realized by the CPU 11 reading this program into the main memory 13 and executing it.

[0103] 31 is a flowchart showing an example of a processing procedure of the purchase support method according to the present embodiment. For convenience of explanation, the purchase support method will be described below in relation to a case where a user wishes to purchase a fluid transport system that transports water from one tank to another.

[0104] First, the purchase support device 1 transmits an interactive condition input screen such as that shown in Fig. 6 to Fig. 17 to the client terminal 70 and displays it, thereby allowing the user to input various information required for purchasing plant parts for a fluid transport system (SA1: condition input support step). The information input in the condition input support step is stored in the selection condition storage unit 41 as selection conditions.

[0105] Next, the purchase support device 1 generates a standard system configuration diagram of the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions, and allows the user to adjust the standard system configuration (SA2: standard system configuration generating step). Specifically, based on the selection conditions stored in the selection condition storage unit 41, standard parts constituting the fluid transport system are acquired from the standard parts database 21, and the standard parts are arranged in order on a piping route connecting the transport start point to the transport end point, thereby generating a standard system configuration diagram. Then, a standard system configuration adjustment screen (see FIG. 18) including the standard system configuration diagram is displayed on the display unit of the client terminal 70, and the user is allowed to adjust the standard system configuration diagram. Information based on the standard system configuration diagram confirmed by the user is stored in the system configuration storage unit 42 (see FIG. 19).

[0106] Next, the purchase support device 1 generates a plurality of standard system configuration candidates, generates a standard system selection screen that displays these candidates in a comparative manner (see FIG. 21), and allows the user to select the desired standard system configuration candidate (SA3: standard system selection step). At this time, the purchase support device 1 may generate a calculation block chain for each standard system configuration candidate, calculate the exit conditions of the system, and display the exit conditions on the standard system selection screen. When any of the standard system configuration candidates is selected by the user, the purchase support device 1 updates the information of the system configuration storage unit 42 based on the information of the selected standard system configuration candidate.

[0107] Next, the purchasing support device 1 selects one or more supplier parts from the supplier parts database 22 that correspond to each standard part stored in the system configuration memory unit 42, and stores information about the selected supplier parts in the part candidate memory unit 43 in association with each standard part (SA4: system part selection process).

[0108] Next, the purchase support device 1 generates multiple system configuration candidates from multiple supplier parts stored in the part candidate storage unit 43 in accordance with a predetermined evaluation criterion, generates a comparison selection screen that displays these candidates for comparison (see FIG. 23), and allows the user to select one or more desired selection pattern candidates (SA5: selection candidate generation step). When the user selects one or more system configuration candidates, the purchase support device 1 stores information on the selected system configuration candidates together with coordinate information in the selected part storage unit 44.

[0109] Next, the purchase support device 1 generates a system configuration diagram connecting the transport start point to the transport end point for each system configuration candidate based on the supplier part information and coordinate information stored in the selected parts storage unit 44, generates a system configuration adjustment screen including the generated system configuration diagram (see FIG. 26), and allows the user to adjust the system configuration (SA6: system configuration generation step). When the user adjusts the system configuration for each system configuration candidate, the purchase support device 1 updates the information in the selected parts storage unit 44 based on the adjusted system configuration.

[0110] Next, the purchase support device 1 performs performance calculations for each system configuration candidate based on the adjusted system configuration diagram, and generates a final confirmation screen (see FIG. 27) including the performance calculation results, etc., and asks the user to confirm it (SA7: specification confirmation step). Once the user has confirmed the order reservation, the purchase support device 1 stores information on supplier parts for each system configuration candidate that has been finally confirmed in the order database 24 as order reservation information.

[0111] Next, the purchasing support device 1 generates an order reservation screen based on the order reservation information for each system configuration candidate stored in the order database 24, and provides the user with information such as option selection, quotation, and quotation specifications (SA8: ordering support step). Then, when the purchasing support device 1 receives an order instruction from the user for any one of the system configuration candidates, it places an order for supplier parts with each supplier based on the order reservation information, and changes the order reservation information to ordering information.

[0112] As described above, according to the purchase support device 1, the purchase support method, and the purchase support program of this embodiment, the user can simply input the selection conditions to identify multiple standard parts that meet the selection conditions, and generate a standard system configuration diagram consisting of the identified multiple standard parts. Then, one or multiple supplier parts corresponding to each of the standard parts that make up the standard system configuration diagram are selected, and at least one system configuration candidate that is a combination of supplier parts that make up a fluid transport system based on the selected multiple supplier parts is generated and presented to the user as a selection candidate.

[0113] For example, when selecting plant parts, the selection criteria and calculation formulas may differ for each supplier, and if calculations are performed for each supplier at once, the amount of calculations becomes enormous, and it may take a long time to consider specifications and estimates. In contrast, according to the purchasing support device 1 of this embodiment, in the first step, a standard system configuration diagram is generated using standard parts that meet the selection conditions, and in the second step, each supplier part corresponding to each standard part is identified. This makes it possible to narrow down the supplier parts, so that the amount of calculations can be minimized while taking into account the needs of the user, and processing time can be shortened. In addition, the user can easily select multiple plant parts that make up the fluid transport system at once by selecting the desired system configuration candidates from those presented as selection candidates. This makes it possible to arrange for multiple plant parts easily and efficiently. Therefore, it is possible to effectively shorten the period from inputting the conditions to purchasing.

[0114] Also, according to this embodiment, the comparison and selection screen (see FIG. 23) is configured to allow the user to select multiple system configuration candidates. This allows the user to select multiple system configuration candidates and compare and consider the estimates, delivery dates, specifications, etc., of these selected system configuration candidates. This allows the user to have a wider range of component selection than when only one system configuration candidate can be selected on the comparison and selection screen.

[0115] 3, some of the functions may be omitted. For example, the standard system configuration generating unit 32 and the standard system selecting unit 33 may be omitted, and the system component selecting unit 34 may select supplier components that meet the selection conditions.

[0116] It is not necessary to execute all of the series of processes shown in Fig. 31, and some of the processes can be omitted. For example, the standard system configuration generation process (SA2) and the standard system configuration selection process (SA3) can be omitted, and supplier parts that meet the selection conditions can be selected in the system parts selection process (SA4).

[0117] Second Embodiment Next, a purchase support device 1a, a purchase support method, and a purchase support program according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. The purchase support device 1a according to this embodiment has a simplified configuration of the system of the purchase support device 1 according to the first embodiment described above. Below, the same components as those in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals and their explanations are omitted, and differences will be mainly described.

[0118] FIG. 33 is a functional configuration diagram showing an example of functions of the purchase support device 1a according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 33, the purchase support device 1a may include a standard parts database 21. The purchase support device 1a may also include a fluid calculation block database 23 and an order database 24. The purchase support device 1 may also include a condition input support unit 31, a standard system configuration generation unit 32, an order specification creation unit 61, an order specification provision unit 62, an estimate acquisition unit 63, a comparison selection screen generation unit 64, and an order support unit 65. The purchase support device 1a may also include a selection condition storage unit 41, a system configuration storage unit 42, and an estimate storage unit 46 as storage areas for storing various data when selecting system parts.

[0119] As in the first embodiment, the condition input support unit 31 acquires, as selection conditions, required functions and required specifications regarding the fluid transport system that the user wishes to purchase. The standard system configuration generation unit 32 identifies a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of element parts constituting the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database 21 in which information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system is stored.

[0120] Furthermore, the standard system configuration generating unit 32 may generate a standard system configuration diagram by connecting a plurality of standard parts identified for each element part, as in the first embodiment described above, and may generate a standard system configuration adjustment screen (see FIG. 18) for allowing the user to adjust the positions and arrangement order of the standard parts constituting the standard system configuration diagram, and to add piping, change the transport path, and change the piping length, and transmit the screen to the client terminal 70. This allows the user to draw a desired system configuration diagram by performing operations such as moving part blocks and changing the dimensions of piping connecting part blocks on the system configuration adjustment screen.

[0121] The system configuration storage unit 42 stores information based on a standard system configuration diagram determined by the user (see FIG. 19). The data stored in the system configuration storage unit 42 is similar to that in the first embodiment described above, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0122] The order specification creation unit 61 creates an order specification based on the standard fluid transport system configured with a plurality of standard parts identified by the standard system configuration generation unit 32. At this time, the order specification creation unit 61 may present a screen for designating desired options to the client terminal 70, and allow the user to select the required options.

[0123] The order specification creation unit 61 creates an order specification for each element part constituting the standard fluid transport system, for example, valves, pumps, flow meters, pressure gauges, piping and pipe joints, based on the specifications of the standard parts corresponding to the element parts. That is, an order specification is created for each element part. Also, if options are specified, an order specification including information on the options is created. The order specification may include, for example, required specification items in terms of performance, required specifications other than performance, and individual required specifications of the user.

[0124] In this embodiment, as an example, the order specification sheet is composed of a cover page, general items, required specifications other than performance, required specifications for performance, and individual required specifications of the user. The general items include, for example, selection, scope of application, points to note when estimating, points to note when designing, etc. The contents of the general items vary depending on the type of plant equipment and parts, but the contents are the same for the same type of equipment and parts. For example, a specification general item database (not shown) that stores the contents of the general items for each type of plant equipment and parts may be prepared in advance, and the order specification creation unit 61 may read the contents corresponding to the type of plant equipment and parts for which the specifications are issued from the specification general item database and automatically create the descriptions of the general items.

[0125] The required specifications other than the performance aspects include, for example, requirements for painting, nameplates, inspections, drawings, etc. The required specifications other than the performance aspects may be determined by the user selecting, for example, each item shown in Table 1 below in a dialogue format or list format.

[0126] [Table 1]

[0127] For example, a database that associates the selection results with the description content for each item is prepared in advance. Then, when creating an order specification, the description content corresponding to the selection result selected by the user for each item may be read from the database and the description content for that item may be automatically created. Also, a history (performance) of the description content for each item may be stored for each user, and the user may select from the history information to simplify the entry from the second time onwards. Also, candidates may be automatically entered from information such as the user's registered place of work and presented to the user.

[0128] The performance requirement specifications are automatically created mainly based on the data stored in the system configuration storage unit 42. For example, in the case of piping or valves, the order specification creation unit 61 acquires information such as the standard part name corresponding to the target part, the nominal pipe diameter, the nominal pressure (temperature and pressure rating), the coordinates of the start point, the coordinates of the end point, and the length from the system configuration storage unit 42 (see FIG. 19), and creates a requirement specification based on the acquired information.

[0129] 34 is a diagram showing an example of performance requirement specifications when the target part is a valve. For example, in the performance requirement specifications, the target part is displayed in a different manner (e.g., shaded, in a different color, etc.) from other parts so that it can be distinguished in a system configuration diagram of a fluid transport system, and the requirement specifications of the target part are described. The requirement specifications may be described as a table or a list.

[0130] The purchase support device 1a also has a requirement specification storage unit (not shown) for storing requirement specification data (including both functional and non-functional aspects) described in the requirement specification, and the order specification creation unit 61 may store the requirement specification data of the created requirement specification in the requirement specification storage unit. FIG. 35 shows an example of requirement specification data. As shown in FIG. 35, the requirement specification data includes, for each plant part, the part name, requirement specification (requirement specification related to performance), preconditions, requirement specification other than performance, additional requirement specification for performance, options, coordinates (start point and end point) and length, inlet conditions (pressure, temperature, flow rate, etc.), and outlet conditions (pressure, temperature, flow rate, etc.). Of these, the part name, requirement specification (requirement specification related to performance), preconditions, coordinates (start point and end point) and length, inlet conditions (pressure, temperature, flow rate, etc.), and outlet conditions (pressure, temperature, flow rate, etc.) are registered with information acquired from the above-mentioned system configuration storage unit 42. Furthermore, the prerequisites, additional performance requirement specifications, and options may be information that is input in an interactive format, similar to the above-mentioned non-performance requirement specifications.

[0131] The order specification providing unit 62 requests quotations by providing the order specifications corresponding to each element part created by the order specification creating unit 61 so that they can be viewed by a plurality of supplier terminals 80 that can supply the element parts. For example, the order specification providing unit 62 generates a quotation request screen that includes the order specifications and indicates information necessary for creating a quotation, and transmits information on the quotation request screen (e.g., access information to the quotation request screen) to a plurality of pre-registered supplier terminals 80 in the form of an open invitation. The information necessary for creating the quotation is, for example, information on the object of purchase (e.g., pumps, piping, valves, etc.), a solicitation period, a desired delivery date, etc. In addition, the user may be able to specify a supplier to which a quotation is to be requested. In this case, the order specification providing unit 62 requests a quotation only from the supplier terminal 80 of the supplier specified by the user.

[0132] FIG. 36 shows an example of a quotation request screen displayed on the supplier terminal 80. The supplier terminal 80 displays, for example, a list of quotation requests currently received by the supplier. As shown in FIG. 36, the quotation request screen displays the requested company name, the project name, the quotation submission deadline, and the like. The quotation request screen may also display whether deviation and clarification (hereinafter referred to as "devicla") can be exchanged, delivery destination information, and the like. Here, deviation is an item that the supplier notifies the orderer when there is an item that cannot be handled in the order specifications. For example, if a steam trap with a maximum operating temperature of 350°C is required but the supplier can only provide up to 320°C, the supplier will notify the orderer that it can handle up to 320°C in deviation. Clarification is an item that the supplier notifies the orderer when there is a matter to be confirmed regarding the contents of the order specifications. For example, a mistake in the writing of units is pointed out, and whether the understanding is correct is confirmed through clarification. The quotation request screen may also display information for displaying an order specification. The supplier checks the quotation request screen displayed on the supplier terminal 80 and selects the item for which they wish to send a quotation. This displays an input screen for attaching a quotation. When the supplier attaches the quotation and performs a send operation, the quotation is associated with the item information and sent to the purchase support device 1a.

[0133] When the quotation acquisition unit 63 receives a quotation associated with the project information from the supplier terminal 80, the quotation acquisition unit 63 stores the received quotation in the quotation storage unit 46. As a result, the received quotation is stored in the quotation storage unit 46 in association with the project information.

[0134] The comparison and selection screen generating unit 64 generates a comparison and selection screen on which the delivery date and price of one or more supplier parts are displayed for each element part in a comparative manner based on a plurality of quotations related to the project information, so that the comparison and selection screen can be viewed from the client terminal 70. For example, when the public offering period ends, the comparison and selection screen generating unit 64 acquires an estimate for each element part from the estimate storage unit 46, and generates a comparison and selection screen based on the acquired estimate. FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of the comparison and selection screen when the element part is a pump. As shown in FIG. 37, the comparison and selection screen displays, for example, the supplier's company name, the estimated price, and the delivery date in a comparative manner. The comparison and selection screen may also include whether the supplier is designated by the user (designated or publicly offered), the estimate deadline, whether or not the Devicra can be exchanged, and the like. The comparison and selection screen may also include an estimate, an estimate specification, and an order specification that can be viewed.

[0135] When a supplier part for which an order is to be placed is selected by the user in the comparison and selection screen generating unit 64 and an ordering operation is performed, the ordering support unit 65 places an order with the supplier of the supplier part. The ordering information may be stored and managed in the ordering database 24, for example.

[0136] As described above, according to the purchase support device 1a, the purchase support method, and the purchase support program of this embodiment, the user only needs to perform the simple operation of inputting the selection conditions to identify multiple standard parts that meet the selection conditions, and an order specification is created based on the identified multiple standard parts. In this way, the order specification for each component part that constitutes the fluid transport system is automatically created, making it possible to reduce the burden on the user and reduce the work time. Furthermore, even an inexperienced user can easily obtain an order specification.

[0137] Moreover, according to the purchase support device 1a of this embodiment, an order specification is sent to a plurality of suppliers and a quotation request is made. This makes it possible to compare the prices and delivery dates of a plurality of suppliers, and to easily select the supplier parts with the best conditions. It also makes it possible to easily select the supplier parts that satisfy the requirements in terms of both price and delivery date. It also makes it possible to order each supplier part that constitutes the fluid transport system by a very simple input operation of selecting the desired supplier part from the comparison and selection screen. This makes it possible to easily and efficiently arrange for a plurality of plant parts. This makes it possible to effectively shorten the period from condition input to purchase.

[0138] In addition, the purchase support device 1a according to this embodiment handles the required specifications of the order specifications as digital data. This allows the supplier to use the digital data of the order specifications to automatically create documents to be submitted, such as quotations, quotation specifications, and outline drawings. This makes it possible to significantly reduce the burden on the supplier compared to receiving paper-based order specifications.

[0139] In addition, according to the purchase support device 1a of this embodiment, general items and required specifications in the order specifications can be automatically created, and the user can also interactively input required specifications other than performance, which are difficult to create automatically. This makes it possible to significantly reduce the burden on the user in creating the order specifications. In the past, order specifications were sometimes created using a spreadsheet application, but when creating required specifications other than performance, there were many contents that could not be put into the format of a spreadsheet application, and the workability and convenience were low. In contrast, the present embodiment has an excellent support function for creating order specifications, making it possible to reduce the burden and labor of the user who creates the order specifications.

[0140] Furthermore, according to the purchase support device 1a of this embodiment, various information such as selection conditions such as the type of fluid, operation mode, required functions and required specifications, operating conditions (e.g., inlet conditions, outlet conditions, etc.) are provided to the supplier as order specifications. This allows detailed information (e.g., operating conditions, etc.) that was not previously provided by the user to the supplier to be notified. This enables the supplier to comprehensively consider this information and select a product that meets the user's requirements. In the past, the type of fluid, operating conditions, etc. were not provided to the supplier, so there were cases where the supplier provided a product based on inferences from past performance, etc., but this problem will be improved.

[0141] [Variation 1] In the present embodiment, an example has been described in which an order specification is created for each element part (e.g., a valve, a pump, a flow meter, a pressure gauge, a pipe, a pipe joint, etc.), but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a single order specification may be created for the entire fluid transport system for a single supplier that handles many types of parts.

[0142] [Modification 2] In addition, in this embodiment, the purchase support device 1, the client terminal 70, and the supplier terminal 80 are connected via a network, and the order specifications are transmitted to the supplier terminal 80 via the network, but this is not limited to the configuration. For example, a configuration may be adopted in which the user operates the client terminal 70 to output the order specifications and place an order directly with the supplier in a manner similar to that of the past.

[0143] [Modification 3] In addition, in this embodiment, a mechanism may be provided that allows users who purchase products through the purchase support device 1a to publish their actual usage experience, defect information (trouble information, damage information during maintenance, etc.), comments, etc., and to provide feedback to suppliers. This allows more information about suppliers and products to be provided to users and suppliers, making it possible to enrich the information users need to select products and improve the quality of products handled. As a result, the quality of the purchase support device 1a itself is improved, which contributes to the development of users and suppliers.

[0144] [Modification 4] In this embodiment, if the user has his / her own individual requirement specification, the data of the individual requirement specification may be uploaded to the purchase support device 1a, and the data may be added to the order specification and provided to the supplier. In this case, an amount according to the number of characters or the number of pages of the uploaded individual requirement specification may be automatically calculated, and this amount may be presented as an additional estimate or charged to the user. For example, a notification such as "Attaching this individual requirement specification will incur an additional cost of XX yen" may be given. This can reduce the user's motivation to make individual requests that are more than necessary.

[0145] For example, if a user has individual requirements, the supplier must respond to them individually. Therefore, the more items in the individual requirements specifications, the greater the burden on the supplier. However, when it comes to individual requirements specifications, it can be difficult for the supplier to charge the user for the labor hours involved, due to the relationship between the user and the supplier. Also, some suppliers anticipate individual requirements and add them to the product price, so in this case the user also has to pay a higher price, which has become an issue that needs to be resolved between the two parties. To address this issue, as described above, if there is an individual requirement specification, the system is configured to notify the user of an additional fee according to the amount and content of the individual requirement specification. This is expected to reduce the frequency of individual requirements being made that are more than necessary.

[0146] [Modification 5] In this embodiment, the user selects and orders a desired part from among the supplier parts displayed on the comparison and selection screen, but this is not limited to the example. For example, there may be a case where the user is unsure of which supplier part to select on the comparison and selection screen. Taking this case into consideration, the comparison and selection screen may be configured to allow a user to select multiple supplier parts as purchase candidates.

[0147] For example, the purchase support device according to this modification may include a system configuration generation unit (not shown) that, when one or more supplier parts are selected as purchase candidates by the user on a comparison and selection screen for each component part, generates multiple system configuration candidates using the supplier parts selected as purchase candidates. For example, assume that two supplier parts are selected as purchase candidates on the pump comparison and selection screen shown in FIG. 37, and one supplier part is selected for each component other than the pump. In this case, two system configuration candidates, one using one pump and the other using the other pump, are generated by the system configuration generation unit.

[0148] Then, for these two system configuration candidates, a system configuration diagram is generated in the same manner as in the first embodiment described above, and a system configuration adjustment screen is generated for the user to adjust at least one of the piping route change, the piping length change, and the piping arrangement angle change in the system configuration diagram (see FIG. 26). Then, for the subsequent processes, the same processes as in the first embodiment described above may be performed. Note that the selection of options has already been performed by the user, and the creation of the quotation and quotation specifications may be created using the information stored in the quotation storage unit 46, since the information acquired from each supplier has already been stored in the quotation storage unit 46.

[0149] Although the present disclosure has been described above using each embodiment, the technical scope of the present disclosure is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiment. Various modifications or improvements can be made to the above embodiment without departing from the gist of the disclosure, and the forms with such modifications or improvements are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the processing flow described in the above embodiment is also one example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be rearranged, without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure.

[0150] The purchase support device 1, the purchase support method, and the purchase support program described in the embodiment described above can be understood, for example, as follows.

[0151] A purchasing support device (1a) according to a first aspect of the present disclosure is a purchasing support device that supports the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant parts, and includes a condition input support unit (31) that acquires required functions and required specifications for the fluid transport system that a user wishes to purchase as selection conditions, a standard system configuration generation unit (32) that identifies a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of component parts that constitute the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database (21) in which information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system is stored, and an order specification creation unit (61) that creates an order specification based on a standard fluid transport system composed of the identified plurality of standard parts.

[0152] According to the above aspect, the user can simply input the selection conditions to identify standard parts for the fluid transport system that meet the selection conditions. This allows a plurality of plant parts constituting the fluid transport system to be presented to the user all at once. Furthermore, according to this aspect, an order specification is automatically created for each element part based on the specifications of the identified plurality of standard parts. This makes it possible to reduce the burden on the user and shorten the work time. Furthermore, even an inexperienced user can easily obtain an order specification.

[0153] The purchase support device according to a second aspect of the present disclosure is the device of the first aspect, further comprising an order specifications providing unit (62) that provides the order specifications to a plurality of suppliers so that they can be viewed.

[0154] According to the above aspect, the order specifications are provided to a plurality of suppliers so that they can be viewed, and quotations are requested, making it possible to easily obtain quotations from a plurality of suppliers.

[0155] The purchase support device according to the third aspect of the present disclosure, in the above-mentioned second aspect, includes an estimate acquisition unit (63) that acquires estimates prepared by each of the multiple suppliers based on the order specifications, and a comparison and selection screen generation unit (64) that generates, based on the multiple quotations, a comparison and selection screen that can be viewed from a client terminal and that displays delivery dates and prices for one or more supplier parts for each of the component parts in a comparative manner.

[0156] According to the above aspect, it becomes possible to compare prices and delivery times for parts from a plurality of suppliers, and it becomes possible to easily select the supplier part with the best conditions.

[0157] The purchase support device according to a fourth aspect of the present disclosure is the device of the third aspect described above, further comprising an order support unit (65) that places an order for a supplier part when an order instruction for the supplier part is input on the comparison and selection screen.

[0158] According to the above aspect, it is possible to order each supplier part constituting the fluid transport system by a very simple input operation of selecting a desired supplier part from the comparison and selection screen. This makes it possible to easily and efficiently arrange for a plurality of plant parts. Therefore, it is possible to effectively shorten the period from condition input to purchase.

[0159] A purchasing support device according to a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, in the above third or fourth aspect, is provided with a system configuration generation unit that generates a system configuration diagram that connects together the selected supplier parts when each supplier part is selected for each of the component parts on the comparison and selection screen, and generates a system configuration adjustment screen that allows a user to adjust at least one of the following in the system configuration diagram: changes to the piping route, changes to the piping length, and changes to the piping arrangement angle.

[0160] According to the above aspect, by adjusting the piping and the like of the system configuration diagram presented on the system configuration adjustment screen, it is possible to obtain system configuration candidates that are composed of parts from multiple suppliers and that meet the selection conditions.

[0161] A purchase support device according to a sixth aspect of the present disclosure is, in the above-mentioned fifth aspect, such that the comparison and selection screen allows the selection of multiple supplier parts for each of the component parts, and when multiple supplier parts are selected for each of the component parts, the system configuration generation unit generates the system configuration adjustment screen for the case in which each of the supplier parts is adopted.

[0162] According to the above aspect, even if the user is unsure of which supplier part to select for each element part, the user can select multiple supplier parts and obtain a system configuration adjustment screen for when each supplier part is adopted, which allows the user to make a final decision on which supplier parts to purchase based on more information.

[0163] The purchase support device according to a seventh aspect of the present disclosure is configured in any one of the first to sixth aspects above, so that a user can select a supplier from which he or she wishes to receive a quotation based on the order specifications.

[0164] According to the above aspect, the user can obtain a quotation from a desired supplier.

[0165] In the purchase support device according to an eighth aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the first to seventh aspects above, the standard system configuration generation unit generates a standard system configuration diagram by connecting together a plurality of standard parts identified for each element part, and generates a standard system configuration adjustment screen that allows a user to adjust the positions and arrangement order of the standard parts that make up the standard system configuration diagram, and to add piping, change the transport route, and change the piping length, and transmits the standard system configuration adjustment screen to a client terminal.

[0166] According to the above aspect, the user can easily adjust the positions and arrangement order of the standard components in the standard system configuration diagram displayed on the standard system configuration adjustment screen, and can easily change at least one of adding piping, changing the transport path, and changing the piping length. This allows the user to create a desired standard system configuration with simple operations.

[0167] A purchasing support device (1) according to a ninth aspect of the present disclosure is a purchasing support device that supports the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant parts, and includes: a condition input support unit (31) that acquires required functions and required specifications for the fluid transport system that a user wishes to purchase as selection conditions; a standard system configuration generation unit (32) that identifies a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of component parts that constitute the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database (21) in which information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system is stored; a system component selection unit (34) that selects one or more supplier parts corresponding to each of the component parts from a supplier parts database (22) in which information on supplier parts sold by suppliers is stored based on the specifications of the plurality of standard parts; and a selection candidate generation unit (35) that generates a plurality of system configuration candidates, which are combinations of supplier parts that constitute the fluid transport system, based on the selected plurality of supplier parts, generates a comparison selection screen on which the plurality of system configuration candidates are displayed in a comparative manner, and provides the comparison selection screen to a client terminal (70).

[0168] According to the above aspect, the user can simply input the selection conditions to specify a plurality of standard parts that meet the selection conditions, and generate a standard system configuration diagram consisting of the specified plurality of standard parts. Then, one or more supplier parts corresponding to each of the standard parts that configure the standard system configuration diagram are selected, and a plurality of system configuration candidates that are combinations of supplier parts that configure the fluid transport system are generated based on the selected plurality of supplier parts, and are presented to the user as selection candidates. This allows the user to easily select a plurality of plant parts that configure the fluid transport system at once by selecting a desired one from the system configuration candidates presented as selection candidates. As a result, it becomes possible to easily and efficiently arrange for a plurality of plant parts. This makes it possible to effectively shorten the period from condition input to purchase.

[0169] The purchase support device according to the tenth aspect of the present disclosure, in the above ninth aspect, includes a system configuration generation unit (36) that, when one or more system configuration candidates are selected on the comparison and selection screen, generates, for each selected system configuration candidate, a system configuration diagram that connects together the supplier parts that constitute the system configuration candidate, and generates a system configuration adjustment screen that allows a user to adjust at least one of a piping route change, a piping length change, and a piping arrangement angle change in the system configuration diagram.

[0170] According to the above aspect, by adjusting the piping and the like of the system configuration diagram presented on the system configuration adjustment screen, it is possible to obtain system configuration candidates that are composed of parts from multiple suppliers and that meet the selection conditions.

[0171] The purchase support device according to an eleventh aspect of the present disclosure, in the above-mentioned ninth or tenth aspect, includes an ordering support unit (38) that requests quotations from target suppliers based on one or more system configuration candidates selected from among the plurality of system configuration candidates, creates quotations indicating information, prices and delivery dates of supplier parts for each of the system configuration candidates based on quotations created by the target suppliers, and provides the quotations to the client terminal.

[0172] According to the above aspect, for each system configuration candidate, it is possible to obtain from the supplier a quotation for each supplier part that constitutes the system configuration candidate. This allows the user to compare the estimated prices and delivery dates presented by the suppliers for the system configuration candidates, and to determine the system configuration candidate that best meets the conditions.

[0173] In a purchase support device according to a twelfth aspect of the present disclosure, in any of the above ninth to eleventh aspects, the standard system configuration generation unit generates a standard system configuration diagram by connecting together a plurality of standard parts identified for each element part, and generates a standard system configuration adjustment screen that allows a user to adjust the positions and arrangement order of the standard parts that constitute the standard system configuration diagram, and to add piping, change the transport route, and change the piping length, and transmits the standard system configuration adjustment screen to the client terminal.

[0174] According to the above aspect, the user can easily adjust the positions and arrangement order of the standard components in the standard system configuration diagram displayed on the standard system configuration adjustment screen, and can easily change at least one of adding piping, changing the transport path, and changing the piping length. This allows the user to create a desired standard system configuration with simple operations.

[0175] A purchasing support method according to a thirteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a purchasing support method for supporting the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant parts, the method comprising the steps of: a condition input support process for acquiring required functions and required specifications for the fluid transport system that a user wishes to purchase as selection conditions; a standard system configuration generation process for identifying a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of component parts that constitute the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database in which information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system is stored; and an order specification creation process for creating an order specification based on a standard fluid transport system composed of the identified plurality of standard parts.

[0176] A purchasing support method according to a fourteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a purchasing support method for supporting the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant parts, the method including: a condition input support step of acquiring required functions and required specifications for the fluid transport system desired by a user as selection conditions; a standard system configuration generation step of identifying a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of component parts constituting the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database in which information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system is stored; a system component selection step of selecting one or more supplier parts corresponding to each of the component parts from a supplier parts database (22) in which information on supplier parts sold by suppliers is stored based on the specifications of the plurality of standard parts; and a selection candidate generation step of generating a plurality of system configuration candidates which are combinations of supplier parts constituting the fluid transport system based on the selected plurality of supplier parts, generating a comparison selection screen in which the plurality of system configuration candidates are displayed in a comparative manner, and providing the selection candidate screen to a client terminal (70).

[0177] A purchase assistance program according to a fifteenth aspect of the present disclosure is a purchase assistance program for causing a computer to function as the purchase assistance device according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects. [Explanation of symbols]

[0178] 1: Purchasing assistance device 1a: Purchasing support device 11: CPU 12: Auxiliary storage device 13: Main memory 14: Communication devices 15: Input section 16:Display section 18: Bus 21: Standard parts database 22: Supplier parts database 23: Fluid calculation block database 24: Order database 31: Condition input support section 32: Standard system configuration generation section 33: Standard System Selection Section 34: System component selection section 35: Selection candidate generation section 36: System configuration generation section 37: Specification Check Section 38: Order Support Department 41: Selection condition storage section 42: System configuration memory unit 43: Part candidate storage section 44: Selected parts storage section 46: Estimate storage section 50: Display switching section 51: Display switching section 52: Display switching section 61: Order specification preparation department 62: Order Specifications Department 63: Quotation Acquisition Department 64: Comparison selection screen generation part 65: Order Support Department 70: Client terminal 80: Supplier terminal 311: Input assistance section

Claims

1. A purchasing support device that supports the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant parts, a condition input support unit that acquires required functions and required specifications of a fluid transport system that a user wishes to purchase as selection conditions; a standard system configuration generation unit that identifies a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of element parts that configure the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database that stores information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system; an order specification creation unit that creates an order specification based on a standard fluid transport system configured with the identified plurality of standard parts; an order specification providing unit that provides the order specification to a plurality of suppliers so that the order specification can be viewed and requests quotes from the suppliers; a quotation acquisition unit that acquires quotations prepared by the plurality of suppliers based on the order specifications; a comparison and selection screen generating unit that generates a comparison and selection screen that can be viewed from a client terminal and that displays delivery dates and prices of one or more supplier parts for each of the element parts in a comparative manner based on the multiple quotations; a system configuration generation unit that generates a system configuration diagram in which the selected supplier parts are connected together when each supplier part is selected for each element part on the comparison and selection screen, and that generates a system configuration adjustment screen that allows a user to adjust at least one of a piping route change, a piping length change, and a piping arrangement angle change on the system configuration diagram; Equipped with On the comparison and selection screen, a selection of a plurality of supplier parts can be made for each of the element parts, The system configuration generation unit generates, when a plurality of supplier parts are selected for each of the element parts, the system configuration adjustment screen for when each of the supplier parts is adopted.

2. 2. The purchasing support device according to claim 1, further comprising an ordering support unit that, when an ordering instruction for a supplier part is input on the comparison and selection screen, places an order for the supplier part.

3. 2. The purchasing support device according to claim 1, wherein the device is configured to allow a user to select a supplier from whom the user wishes to receive a quotation based on the order specifications.

4. The purchase support device according to claim 1, wherein the standard system configuration generation unit generates a standard system configuration diagram by connecting together the plurality of standard parts identified for each of the element parts, and generates a standard system configuration adjustment screen that allows a user to adjust the positions and arrangement order of the standard parts that make up the standard system configuration diagram, and to add piping, change the transport route, and change the piping length, and transmits the screen to a client terminal.

5. A purchasing support device that supports the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant parts, a condition input support unit that acquires required functions and required specifications of a fluid transport system that a user wishes to purchase as selection conditions; a standard system configuration generation unit that identifies a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of element parts that configure the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database that stores information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system; a system component selection unit that selects one or more supplier parts corresponding to each of the element components from a supplier component database that stores information on supplier parts sold by suppliers, based on specifications of the plurality of standard components; a selection candidate generation unit that generates a plurality of system configuration candidates, which are combinations of supplier parts that constitute the fluid transport system, based on the plurality of selected supplier parts, generates a comparison selection screen that displays the plurality of system configuration candidates in a comparable manner, and provides the comparison selection screen to a client terminal; A purchase support device comprising:

6. 6. The purchasing support device according to claim 5, further comprising a system configuration generation unit that, when one or more system configuration candidates are selected on the comparison and selection screen, generates, for each selected system configuration candidate, a system configuration diagram that connects together the supplier parts that make up the system configuration candidate, and generates a system configuration adjustment screen that allows a user to adjust at least one of a piping route, a piping length, and a piping arrangement angle in the system configuration diagram.

7. 6. The purchasing support device according to claim 5, further comprising an ordering support unit that requests quotations from target suppliers based on one or more of the system configuration candidates selected from the plurality of system configuration candidates, creates quotations indicating supplier part information, prices, and delivery dates for each of the system configuration candidates based on quotations created by the target suppliers, and provides the quotations to the client terminal.

8. The purchase support device according to claim 5, wherein the standard system configuration generation unit generates a standard system configuration diagram by connecting together the plurality of standard parts identified for each of the element parts, and generates a standard system configuration adjustment screen that allows a user to adjust the positions and arrangement order of the standard parts that make up the standard system configuration diagram, and to add piping, change a transport route, or change the length of piping, and transmits the screen to the client terminal.

9. A purchasing support method for supporting the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant components, comprising: a condition input support step of acquiring required functions and required specifications of the fluid transport system that the user wishes to purchase as selection conditions; a standard system configuration generation step of identifying a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of element parts constituting the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database storing information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system; an order specification creation step of creating an order specification based on a standard fluid transport system configured with the identified plurality of standard parts; an order specification providing step of providing the order specification to a plurality of suppliers so that the order specification can be viewed and requesting quotations from the suppliers; a quotation obtaining step of obtaining quotations prepared by each of the plurality of suppliers based on the order specifications; a comparison and selection screen generating step of generating a comparison and selection screen that can be viewed from a client terminal and that displays delivery dates and prices of one or more supplier parts for each of the element parts in a comparative manner based on the multiple quotations; a system configuration generation process for, when each supplier part is selected for each element part on the comparison and selection screen, generating a system configuration diagram that connects the selected supplier parts together, and generating a system configuration adjustment screen that allows a user to adjust at least one of a piping route change, a piping length change, and a piping arrangement angle change on the system configuration diagram, and when multiple supplier parts are selected for each element part on the comparison and selection screen, generating the system configuration adjustment screen for when each of the supplier parts is adopted; The computer performs the purchasing assistance method.

10. A purchasing support method for supporting the purchase of a fluid transport system including a plurality of plant components, comprising: a condition input support step of acquiring required functions and required specifications of the fluid transport system that the user wishes to purchase as selection conditions; a standard system configuration generation step of identifying a plurality of standard parts corresponding to a plurality of element parts constituting the fluid transport system based on the selection conditions from a standard parts database storing information on a plurality of standard parts related to the fluid transport system; a system component selection step of selecting one or more supplier parts corresponding to each of the element components from a supplier component database storing information on supplier parts sold by suppliers, based on specifications of the plurality of standard components; a selection candidate generation step of generating a plurality of system configuration candidates, which are combinations of supplier parts that constitute the fluid transport system, based on the plurality of selected supplier parts, generating a comparison selection screen on which the plurality of system configuration candidates are displayed in a comparative manner, and providing the comparison selection screen to a client terminal; The computer performs the purchasing assistance method.

11. A purchase support program for causing a computer to function as the purchase support device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

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