Measuring control unit, measuring device, measuring system, and control program

Abstract

To improve the productivity of measuring operations involving tare subtraction.SOLUTION: A measuring control unit is connected with a measuring unit that measures the weight of an object to be measured and an operation unit that is operated by a user. When it is determined that a first operation is performed on the operation unit based on operation information on the operation on the operation unit, a first mode is selected for setting the weight measured by the measuring unit in association with the first operation as a tare amount. When it is determined that a second operation is performed on the operation unit based on the operation information on the operation on the operation unit, a second mode is selected for allowing setting of a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on a weight registered and input in the operation unit as the tare amount, and the rare amount is set based on the selected mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a weighing control device, a weighing device, a weighing system, and a control program. [Background technology]

[0002] Weighing devices used in food stores, household kitchens, etc. have traditionally been equipped with a tare function that weighs items without the weight of containers, accessories, etc. Such weighing devices are equipped with an operating section such as a button or key, and when a tare is placed on the weighing device and the operating section is operated, the tare is subtracted and the weight displayed on the display becomes "0." By subsequently placing an object to be weighed on the weighing pan and weighing it, only the weight of the object to be weighed can be measured.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a weighing device of this type that can be switched between an automatic mode in which tare subtraction is performed automatically and a manual mode in which tare subtraction is performed manually by pressing and holding a tare key. The automatic mode in Patent Document 1 refers to an operation in which tare subtraction is performed when the weighing value in the weighing device remains stable for a certain period of time. The manual mode refers to an operation in which tare subtraction is performed each time the tare key is operated. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2010-122083 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, when weighing an object to be weighed, there is a need to combine the weight of the food packaging and the weight of the preservative and subtract the tare weight at once. In response to this, with the weighing device of Patent Document 1, it is necessary to load the packaging and the preservative on the weighing device and perform tare subtraction in either automatic mode or manual mode every time the weight of the object to be weighed is weighed. Therefore, even if the combined weight of the packaging and the preservative is the same, the productivity of the weighing work is reduced because it is not possible to subtract the tare weight unless the packaging and the preservative are weighed.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to improve the productivity of weighing operations involving tare subtraction. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is a weighing control device connected to a weighing unit that weighs the weight of an object to be weighed and an operation unit operated by a user, and is characterized in that it comprises a selection unit that determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operation unit based on operation information regarding the operation on the operation unit, and when it is determined that the first operation has been performed, selects a first mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit in association with the first operation is set as a tare weight, and when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, selects a second mode in which a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on a weight input in the operation unit can be set as the tare weight, and a setting unit that sets the tare weight based on the mode selected by the selection unit.

[0008] In order to solve the above problem, another aspect of the present invention is a weighing device comprising a weighing control device connected to a weighing unit which weighs the weight of an object to be weighed and an operation unit operated by a user, characterized in that it comprises a selection unit which determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operation unit based on operation information regarding an operation on the operation unit, and when it is determined that the first operation has been performed, selects a first mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit is associated with the first operation and set as a tare weight, and when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, selects a second mode in which a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on a weight input in the operation unit can be set as the tare weight, and a setting unit which sets the tare weight based on the mode selected by the selection unit.

[0009] In order to solve the above problem, another aspect of the present invention is a weighing system comprising a weighing control device connected to a weighing unit which weighs the weight of an object to be weighed and an operation unit operated by a user, characterized in that it comprises a selection unit which determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operation unit based on operation information regarding the operation on the operation unit, and when it is determined that the first operation has been performed, selects a first mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit is associated with the first operation and set as a tare weight, and when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, selects a second mode in which a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on a weight input in the operation unit can be set as the tare weight, and a setting unit which sets the tare weight based on the mode selected by the selection unit.

[0010] In addition, in order to solve the above problem, another aspect of the present invention is a control program for a weighing control device connected to a weighing unit that weighs the weight of an object to be weighed and an operation unit operated by a user, which determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operation unit based on operation information regarding the operation on the operation unit, and when it is determined that the first operation has been performed, selects a first mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit in association with the first operation is set as the tare weight, and when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, selects a second mode in which a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on a weight input in the operation unit can be set as the tare weight, and sets the tare weight based on the selected mode. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a weighing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the weighing device of the first embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the weighing device of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a procedure for setting a tare weight in the weighing device of the first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a procedure for setting a tare weight in the weighing device of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the operation panel according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation panel of the first embodiment, the screen including a numeric keypad. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a data table illustrating an example of information related to preset values ​​stored in the second setting information storage unit in the first embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a diagram showing another example of a screen displayed on the operation panel of the first embodiment, the screen including a numeric keypad. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for setting a preset value in a weighing device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the flow of a procedure for setting a preset value in a weighing device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a confirmation screen displayed on an operation panel in the modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a weighing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of a weighing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of a weighing control device included in the weighing system of the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and the drawings, elements that can be similarly described may be designated by the same reference numerals to avoid repetitive description.

[0013] The explanation will be given in the following order: 1. Overview of the embodiment 2. First embodiment 2.1. Configuration of the weighing device 1 2.1.1. Hardware configuration of weighing device 1 2.1.2. Configuration of the controller 100 of the weighing device 1 2.2. Overview of procedure for setting tare weight on weighing device 1 2.3. Modification: Outline of procedure for setting preset values ​​in weighing device 1 2.4. Other Modifications 3. Second embodiment 3.1. Configuration of the weighing system 1000 3.1.1. Relationship with the First Embodiment 3.2. Other Configuration Examples of the Weighing System 1000 4. Other embodiments 5. Summary of the embodiment

[0014] <<1. Overview of the embodiment>> First, an outline of the embodiment will be described.

[0015] (1)Technical issues Weighing devices used in food stores, household kitchens, etc. have traditionally been equipped with a tare function that weighs items without the weight of containers, accessories, etc. Such weighing devices are equipped with an operating section such as a button or key, and when a tare is placed on the weighing device and the operating section is operated, the tare is subtracted and the weight displayed on the display becomes "0." By subsequently placing an object to be weighed on the weighing pan and weighing it, only the weight of the object to be weighed can be measured.

[0016] As such a weighing device, for example, a device that has a configuration that allows switching between an automatic mode in which tare subtraction is performed automatically and a manual mode in which tare subtraction is performed manually by pressing and holding a tare key is known. In the automatic mode, a tare subtraction is performed when the weighing value in the weighing device remains stable for a certain period of time. In the manual mode, a tare subtraction is performed each time the tare key is operated.

[0017] Incidentally, when weighing an object to be weighed, there is a need to combine the weight of the food package and the weight of the preservative and subtract the tare weight at once. In response to this, with conventional weighing devices, it is necessary to load the package and the preservative on the weighing device and perform tare subtraction in either automatic or manual mode every time the weight of an object to be weighed is weighed. Therefore, even if the combined weight of the package and the preservative is the same, the productivity of the weighing work is reduced because it is not possible to subtract the tare weight unless the package and the preservative are weighed.

[0018] The present embodiment aims to improve the productivity of weighing operations involving tare subtraction.

[0019] (2) Example of operation In an embodiment of the present invention, for example, when taring, the tare weight can be set by selecting whether to use the weight measured by the weighing unit as the tare weight, or to use a predetermined weight or a value input in the operation unit as the tare weight.

[0020] This makes it possible to omit the step of weighing the container in weighing tasks where the same weight container is used repeatedly, for example.Also, since the tare weight can be subtracted according to the characteristics of the container to be weighed with a simpler operation, it is possible to improve the productivity of weighing tasks that involve tare weight subtraction.

[0021] The above-mentioned technical features are a specific example of an embodiment of the present invention, and it goes without saying that the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned technical features.

[0022] <<2. First embodiment>> A first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 11. In the following, a weighing device that is used mainly in grocery stores, household kitchens, etc. and has a tare subtraction function that measures items without the weight of the tare of containers, accessories, etc. will be described as an example. Note that the configuration of this embodiment can also be applied to weighing devices used in food factories, farms, post offices, etc., in addition to stores and kitchens.

[0023] <2.1. Configuration of the measuring device 1> First, a weighing device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. Fig. 1 is an external perspective view of the weighing device 1 according to the first embodiment. The weighing device 1 is configured to be able to measure only the weight of an object to be weighed by first placing a container on the weighing plate 55 and subtracting the tare weight, and then placing the object to be weighed on the weighing plate 55 and weighing it. Furthermore, the weighing device 1 is configured to be able to select, when setting the tare weight, a mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 (see Fig. 2) is set as the tare weight, or a mode in which a predetermined weight or a value inputted as a number in the operation unit 60 can be set as the tare weight.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 1, the weighing device 1 has a main body 11, a weighing dish 55 on which an object to be weighed is placed, a weighing unit 91, an operation panel 65, and a level 56. The main body 11 has a housing made of resin or metal, and the weighing dish 55 is disposed on the upper surface of the main body 11. The operation panel 65 is a touch panel in which the display unit 50 and the operation unit 60 are integrally formed, and is operated by a user of the weighing device 1. The operation panel 65 can also display weighing information (described in detail later) related to weighing by the weighing unit 91. As shown in FIG. 1, the operation panel 65 is provided on the front side of the main body 11. The level 56 is disposed on the upper surface side of the main body 11, and is used by the user to visually check whether the weighing device 1 is disposed so that the weighing dish 55 is horizontal. The weighing unit 91 is also built into the main body 11 below the weighing dish 55, as indicated by the dotted line in FIG. 1.

[0025] <2.1.1. Hardware configuration of the weighing device 1> Next, the hardware configuration of the weighing device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the weighing device 1. The weighing device 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 10, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 20, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 30, a storage medium 40, and an interface (I / F) 70, which are connected via a bus 80. In addition, a display unit 50 and an operation unit 60 are connected to the I / F 70.

[0026] The CPU 10 is a calculation means and controls the operation of the entire weighing device 1. The RAM 20 is a volatile storage medium capable of reading and writing information at high speed, and is used as a working area when the CPU 10 processes information. The ROM 30 is a read-only non-volatile storage medium in which programs such as firmware are stored. The storage medium 40 is a non-volatile storage medium such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive) in which information can be read and written, and in which an OS (Operating System), various control programs, application programs, etc. are stored.

[0027] The I / F 70 connects and controls the bus 80 with various hardware, networks, etc. The display unit 50 is a display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and is a visual user interface that allows the user to check the status of the weighing device 1. The operation unit 60 is a user interface such as a keyboard or mouse that allows the user to input information to the weighing device 1. In this embodiment, the display unit 50 and the operation unit 60 are configured as an operation panel 65 that is integrally formed.

[0028] The weighing unit 91 is a weight detection module such as a load cell that has a strain gauge or a piezoelectric element that deforms when subjected to the weight of the object to be weighed placed on the weighing pan 55 (see Figure 1), and outputs a change in resistance value corresponding to the amount of deformation as a voltage value.

[0029] An A / D converter 90 that converts an analog signal from the weighing unit 91 into a digital signal is connected to the bus 80. The voltage value output from the weighing unit 91 is converted into a pulse signal in the A / D converter 90 and input to the CPU 10 via the bus 80. The CPU 10 calculates the weight of the object to be weighed based on the pulse signal input via the bus 80. In the following description, information related to weighing by the weighing unit 91, such as the pulse signal into which the voltage value output from the weighing unit 91 is converted by the A / D converter 90, is referred to as "weighing information."

[0030] In such a hardware configuration, the software control unit of the weighing device 1 is configured by the CPU 10 performing calculations according to a program stored in the ROM 30 or a program loaded from the storage medium 40 to the RAM 20. The software control unit configured in this way is combined with hardware to configure a controller 100 (see FIG. 3) for realizing the functions of the weighing device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0031] <2.1.2. Configuration of the controller 100 of the weighing device 1> Next, the functional configuration of the weighing device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the weighing device 1. The weighing device 1 has a controller 100 that controls the overall operation of the weighing device 1. The controller 100 includes a communication processing unit 110, a main control unit 120, and a storage unit 130.

[0032] The communication processing unit 110 controls the exchange of information with the controller 100 via the I / F 50. For example, the communication processing unit 110 receives information on a user's operation on a soft key displayed on the operation panel 65 (hereinafter referred to as "operation information") from the operation panel 65 and inputs it to the main control unit 120. The communication processing unit 110 also receives information for controlling a screen displayed on the operation panel 65 (hereinafter referred to as "screen information") from the main control unit 120 and transmits it to the operation panel 65 via the I / F 50.

[0033] Furthermore, the communication processing unit 110 receives the measurement information via the I / F 50. As described above, the measurement information is information including a pulse signal into which the voltage value output from the measurement unit 91 is converted, and the like.

[0034] The main control unit 120 includes a selection unit 121, a setting unit 122, a measurement processing unit 123, and a display processing unit 124, and controls the entire controller 100.

[0035] The selection unit 121 has a function of selecting either a mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 (see FIG. 2) is set as the tare weight (hereinafter referred to as the "first mode"), or a mode in which a predetermined weight or a weight inputted in number from the operation panel 65 can be set as the tare weight (hereinafter referred to as the "second mode"). Specifically, the selection unit 121 receives operation information via the communication processing unit 110, and selects whether the tare weight of the weighing operation is to be subtracted in the first mode or the second mode. The specific operation of the selection unit 121 and the user's operation on the operation panel 65 will be described in detail later.

[0036] The setting unit 122 sets the tare weight in the weighing operation in the mode selected by the selection unit 121, i.e., either the first mode or the second mode. When the selection unit 121 selects to execute the second mode, the setting unit 122 can also execute a process (hereinafter referred to as a "third setting process") of setting the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 as a preset value. The setting of the preset value will be described in detail later. The setting unit 122 passes tare information indicating the set tare weight to the weighing processing unit 123 and the display processing unit 124.

[0037] The weighing processing unit 123 performs a calculation based on the weighing information and the tare information to subtract the tare weight set by the setting unit 122 from the weight measured by the weighing unit 91, and passes the calculation result to the display processing unit .

[0038] The display processing unit 124 generates screen information based on the information received from the selection unit 121, the setting unit 122, and the measurement processing unit 123, and transmits the screen information to the operation panel 65 via the communication processing unit 110. In other words, the screen displayed on the operation panel 65 (display unit 50) is controlled by the display processing unit 124.

[0039] The storage unit 130 includes a first setting information storage unit 131 and a second setting information storage unit 132, and stores various information upon receiving commands from the main control unit 120. The first setting information storage unit 131 stores a value input via the operation panel 65, which is set as the tare weight in the second mode. The second setting information storage unit 132 stores preset values ​​that are assigned to each of a plurality of soft keys included in the numeric keypad displayed on the operation panel 65 when the second mode is executed. The information stored in the first setting information storage unit 131 may include the weight of the object to be weighed, which is set as the tare weight in the first mode.

[0040] With such a configuration, the weighing device 1 of this embodiment controls the selection of a first mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 is set as the tare weight, or a second mode in which a preset weight or a weight inputted in units from the operation panel 65 can be set as the tare weight. In other words, the weighing device 1 also functions as a weighing control device in this embodiment.

[0041] <2.2. Overview of procedure for setting tare weight on weighing device 1> Next, with reference to Fig. 4 to Fig. 8, an outline of the procedure for setting a tare weight in a weighing operation using the weighing device 1 will be described. Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 are flow charts showing the procedure for setting a tare weight in a weighing operation using the weighing device 1. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a weighing screen 510 displayed on the operation panel 65, the weighing screen 510 including a tare key 61. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation panel 65, the weighing screen 510 including a numeric keypad 600 used for inputting a tare weight, etc. Fig. 8 is a data table showing an example of information related to preset values ​​stored in the second setting information storage unit 132.

[0042] Weighing operations using the weighing device 1 are started by the main control unit 120 when the weighing device 1 is powered on and the operation panel 65 is operated or an object to be weighed is placed on the weighing pan 55 as a trigger. In order to indicate that the weighing operation in the weighing device 1 is ready to start, the display processing unit 124 may display a weighing screen 510 as shown in Fig. 6 on the operation panel 65. In this embodiment, the procedure for setting the tare weight will be described on the assumption that the weighing screen 510 is displayed on the operation panel 65 and the weighing operation in the weighing device 1 is ready to start.

[0043] 4, in step S11, the setting unit 122 receives the weighing information via the communication processing unit 110 and determines whether the weighing unit 91 is weighing the weight of the weighing object. Here, for example, it is assumed that a packaging set in which wasabi is attached to wax paper is used as a weighing bag.

[0044] In step S11, if no weighing information is received, or if weighing information indicating that the weight detected by the weighing unit 91 is 0 is received, the selection unit 121 determines that weighing is not in progress (S11 / N) and proceeds to step S12. For example, if no object to be weighed is placed on the weighing dish 55, it is determined that weighing is not in progress (S11 / N).

[0045] When it is determined that the weighing unit 91 is not in the process of weighing (S11 / N), the selection unit 121 receives operation information via the communication processing unit 110. Then, in step S12, the selection unit 121 determines, based on the received operation information, whether or not the operation performed on the tare key 61, which is a soft key displayed on the weighing screen 510, is the second operation. The tare key 61 is the first key in this embodiment.

[0046] In this embodiment, the operation of the tare key 61 may be, for example, a first operation or a second operation. The first operation in this embodiment refers to an operation on the tare key 61 when the elapsed time ET while the tare key 61 is pressed and held is between time T1 and time T2. The elapsed time ET, time T1, and time T2 during the first operation have the relationship 0<time T1≦elapsed time ET<time T2. If the elapsed time ET while the tare key 61 is pressed and held is equal to or greater than 0 and less than time T2, the selection unit 121 determines that the operation performed on the tare key 61 in step S12 is not the second operation.

[0047] On the other hand, the second operation in this embodiment refers to, for example, an operation on the tare key 61 when the elapsed time ET while the tare key 61 is pressed and held becomes equal to or longer than time T2. The elapsed time ET, time T1, and time T2 during the second operation have a relationship of 0<time T1<time T2≦elapsed time ET. When the elapsed time while the tare key 61 is pressed and held becomes equal to or longer than time T2, the selection unit 121 determines in step S12 that the operation performed on the tare key 61 is the second operation. Time T2, which is an example of the elapsed time ET while the tare key 61 is pressed and held, is an example of a predetermined time in this embodiment.

[0048] Note that, in addition to the above, as operations on the tare key 61, for example, a single tap may be accepted as a first operation and a double tap may be accepted as a second operation.

[0049] Incidentally, the user of the weighing device 1 can recognize whether the first operation or the second operation is being performed on the tare key 61 from a change in the display state of the indicator 51 included in the weighing screen 510. The display processing unit 124 receives operation information via the communication processing unit 110, and changes the display of the indicator 51 in response to the operation on the tare key 61.

[0050] For example, the display processor 124 acquires the operation information and changes the display of the indicator 51 based on the elapsed time when the tare key 61 is pressed and held down. For example, when the operation of the tare key 61 is started, the display processor 124 lights up the indicator 51 from the left end, and increases the illumination width from the left end to the right end of the indicator 51 as the operation time of the tare key 61 increases. Then, when the operation time of the tare key 61 continues for a predetermined time or more (for example, time T2 or more), the indicator 51 is illuminated over its entire width. FIG. 6 illustrates the positions of the right end of the illuminated part of the indicator 51 at times T1 and T2. Also, in FIG. 6, as an example of a case where the operation time of the tare key 61 is less than the predetermined time, the illuminated part of the indicator 51 at time T1 is shown in white and the unlit part is shown in halftone dots.

[0051] In addition, when a single tap is accepted as a first operation and a double tap is accepted as a second operation as an operation on the tare key 61, the display processing unit 124 may change the color or lighting state of the indicator 51 between the first operation and the second operation.

[0052] In this way, by operating the tare key 61 while checking the change in the display state of the indicator 51, the user of the weighing device 1 can recognize whether the operation the user is performing on the tare key 61 is the first operation or the second operation. When the second operation is performed, the display processing unit 124 lights up the entire width of the indicator 51 as described above, and then transitions the display of the operation panel 65 from the weighing screen 510 including the tare key 61 to the number entry screen 520 including the numeric keypad 600. In other words, the tare key 61 is a soft key that is not displayed simultaneously with the numeric keypad 600 on the operation panel 65.

[0053] If the time that has elapsed while the container key 61 was pressed and held is between time T1 and time T2, the selection unit 121 determines that the second operation was not performed on the container key 61 (S12 / N) and returns to step S11.

[0054] On the other hand, if the time that has elapsed while the tare key 61 is pressed and held is longer than time T2, the selection unit 121 determines that a second operation has been performed on the tare key 61 (S12 / Y).The selection unit 121 then selects execution of a second mode that allows the tare weight to be set based on a value entered by operating a soft key displayed on the operation panel 65, and proceeds to step S15.

[0055] When execution of the second mode is selected by the selection unit 121, the display processing unit 124 transitions the display of the operation panel 65 from the weighing screen 510 (FIG. 6) to a screen including a quantity entry screen 520 (FIG. 7) in step S15. As shown in FIG. 7, the quantity entry screen 520 displays a numeric keypad 600 including multiple soft keys (keys 601, 602, 603, an OK key 604, and a CLR key 605). The user of the weighing device 1 can operate the numeric keypad 600 to enter any quantity.

[0056] In step S16, the setting unit 122 receives information related to the operation of the numeric keypad 600 via the communication processing unit 110. Then, the setting unit 122 sets the tare weight in accordance with the operation on the numeric keypad 600.

[0057] 5, a procedure in which the setting unit 122 sets the tare weight in response to an operation on the numeric keypad 600 will be described. The flowchart shown in FIG. 5 is performed in step S16 of the flowchart in FIG.

[0058] In step S161, the setting unit 122 determines, based on the information on the operation of the numeric keypad 600 received via the communication processing unit 110, whether the operation on the numeric keypad 600 is the third operation.

[0059] In this embodiment, a packaging set with wasabi affixed to wax paper is used as the container. Here, it is assumed that the user operates the numeric keypad 600 to set the weight of the packaging set with wasabi affixed to wax paper as the container weight by inputting the weight of the packaging set. In this embodiment, there are, for example, a third operation and a fourth operation. The third operation in this embodiment refers to an operation on the numeric keypad 600 when the numeric keypad 600 is operated to input a quantity, such as by operating the keys 601 and 602 in succession and then operating the OK key 504. In other words, when setting the weight of the container by inputting a quantity, the user performs an operation to input the weight of the container by the numeric keypad 600 by operating the keys 601 and 602 in succession and then operating the OK key 504. In such a case, the operation panel 65 transmits information indicating that the third operation has been performed on the numeric keypad 600 (hereinafter referred to as "first setting operation information") to the communication processing unit 110.

[0060] Meanwhile, assume that the user has pressed and held down key 603 on numeric keypad 600 to set the preset value set on key 603 (weight of a packaging set with wasabi affixed to wax paper, see FIG. 8) as the tare weight. The fourth operation in this embodiment refers to an operation on numeric keypad 600 when, for example, a period of time has elapsed while key 603 is pressed and held down. That is, when setting a preset value as the tare weight, the user performs an operation such as pressing and holding down key 603 included in numeric keypad 600. In such a case, operation panel 65 transmits information indicating that a fourth operation has been performed on numeric keypad 600 (hereinafter referred to as "second setting operation information") to communication processing unit 110.

[0061] When the third operation information is received (S161 / Y), the setting unit 122 determines that a number has been input using a soft key included in the numeric keypad 600. Then, in step S163, the setting unit 122 acquires the value input using the numeric keypad 600 by the third operation.

[0062] As described above, in the example of the third operation in this embodiment, the keys 601 and 602 are operated consecutively in this order on the numeric keypad 600, and the OK key 504 is operated. In this case, the setting unit 122 determines in step S163 that the number "14" has been input by operating the keys 601 and 602 in this order. Then, in step S164, the setting unit 122 determines the tare weight based on the value input as the number from the numeric keypad 600 by the third operation.

[0063] For example, in step S164, the setting unit 122 determines "14.0 g" as the tare weight based on the value input as the quantity from the numeric keypad 600 by the third operation. If the key 603 is operated and then the OK key 604 is operated as the third operation, then in step S164, "7.0 g" is determined as the tare weight. In step S164, the display processing unit 124 may display "14.0 g" as the tare weight in the display area 606 of the quantity input screen 520 based on the value input as the quantity from the numeric keypad 600 by the third operation.

[0064] When the fourth operation information has been received (S161 / N), the setting unit 122 determines that the third operation has not been performed on the numeric keypad 600, and proceeds to step S162.

[0065] As described above, in an example of the fourth operation in this embodiment, the key 603 is pressed and held on the numeric keypad 600. In this case, the setting unit 122 acquires information on the preset value associated with the key 603 from the preset data table 700 (FIG. 8) stored in the second setting information storage unit 132 in step S162.

[0066] Here, the configuration of the preset data table 700 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. The preset data table 700 includes a corresponding key 701, a key ID 702, a tare weight amount 703, and a setting date and time 704. As shown in Fig. 8, the table may also include information indicating a tare weight item 705, a setter, etc.

[0067] Corresponding keys 701 are information on the soft keys (keys 601, 602, 603, . . . ) included in the numeric keypad 600. In the preset data table 700, information associated with each of the keys 601, 602, 603, . . . is stored.

[0068] The key ID 702 is information indicating a number to be input to the communication processing unit 110 when the keys 601, 602, 603, ... are operated. In Fig. 8, for example, information indicating "1" is associated with the key 601, and information indicating "7" is associated with the key 603 as the key ID 702.

[0069] The tare weight 703 is information indicating a preset value of the tare weight associated with each of the keys 601, 602, 603, etc. In Fig. 8, for example, information indicating "5.6 g" is associated with the key 601 as the tare weight 703, and information indicating "25.5 g" is associated with the key 603 as the tare weight 703.

[0070] The set date and time 704 is information indicating the date and time when the tare weight 703 associated with each of the keys 601, 602, 603, ... was set. In Fig. 8, for example, information indicating "August 8, 2020, 14:00" is associated with the key 603 as the tare weight 703. Note that if the tare weight 703 is the initial value of the weighing device 1, the information of the set date and time 704 does not need to be stored.

[0071] The container item 705 is information indicating the container item associated with each of the keys 601, 602, 603, etc. In Fig. 8, for example, information indicating "soy sauce and a plastic bag" is associated as the container item 705 with the key 601, and information indicating "wax paper and wasabi" is associated with the key 603.

[0072] 8, in the preset data table 700, a tare weight of "25.5 g" is stored in association with the key 603. The setting unit 122 recognizes that a preset value of "25.5 g" is set in the key 603, and determines in step S164 that the preset value of the key 603, that is, "25.5 g", is the tare weight.

[0073] When the fourth operation information is received (S161 / N), the display processing unit 124 may display information such as "Do you want to call up the tare weight number 3?" on the operation panel 65. Then, when an operation is performed on the operation panel 65 to call up the preset value set in the key 603, the procedures of steps S162 and S164 may be executed.

[0074] 5, when the CLR key 605 is operated, the value input from the numeric keypad 600 is reset. Then, the display processing unit 124 may display "0.0g" in the display area 606 included in the number input screen 520.

[0075] Returning to the flowchart of Figure 4, the procedure from step S16 onwards will be described further. In step S17, the setting unit 122 sets the tare weight determined in the procedure of step S16 as the tare weight to be used in the weighing operation of the weighing device 1, and proceeds to step S18. The weight value set as the tare weight is stored in the first setting information storage unit 131.

[0076] In this embodiment, in step S17, the setting unit 122 performs a first setting process in which the value input from the numeric keypad 600 is set as the tare weight, and a second setting process in which the preset value set on a key included in the numeric keypad 600 (here, key 603 as an example) is set as the tare weight.

[0077] In step S18, the weighing processing unit 123 receives the weighing information and executes weighing processing to subtract the tare weight from the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 based on the weighing information and the tare weight set in step S17. Here, since the tare weight is set in step S17, the result of the weighing processing is the value obtained by subtracting the weight of the object measured in step S11 from the weight measured by the weighing unit 91. The result of the weighing processing is passed from the weighing processing unit 123 to the display processing unit 124 and displayed on the operation panel 65 by the display processing unit 124.

[0078] When the tare weight is set by the setting unit 122, the display processing unit 124 may transition the display on the operation panel 65 from the quantity input screen 520 to the weighing screen 510. Furthermore, the weight display area 53 of the weighing screen 510 may display that the tare weight set by the setting unit 122 has already been subtracted. In this case, for example, when the first setting process is performed, "-14.0 g" is displayed in the weight display area 53. Also, when the second setting process is performed, "-25.5 g" is displayed in the weight display area 53.

[0079] When the tare weight is set by the setting unit 122, in step S18, the weighing processing unit 123 acquires weighing information via the communication processing unit 110 and executes weighing processing to subtract the tare weight from the weight measured by the weighing unit 91. The result of the weighing processing is transferred from the weighing processing unit 123 to the display processing unit 124 as weighing information, and is displayed on the operation panel 65 by the display processing unit 124.

[0080] Returning to the flowchart of Fig. 4, the procedure for performing the first mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 (see Fig. 2) is set as the tare weight will be described. When a packaging set is placed on the weighing dish 55 (see Fig. 1) and weighing information indicating that the weight of the packaging set has been detected is received, the selection unit 121 determines in step S11 that the weighing unit 91 is measuring (S11 / Y) and proceeds to step S13.

[0081] When it is determined that the weighing unit 91 is in the process of weighing (S11 / Y), in step S13, the selection unit 121 passes the weighing information received in step S11 to the setting unit 122, and the process proceeds to step S14.

[0082] In step S14, the selection unit 121 determines whether or not a first operation has been performed on the tare key 61. If it is determined that the first operation has been performed by, for example, single tapping the tare key 61 (S14 / Y), the selection unit 121 selects execution of a first mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 (see FIG. 2) is set as the tare weight, and the process proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the setting unit 122 sets the weight of the object to be measured acquired in step S13 as the tare weight, and the process proceeds to step S18.

[0083] In step S18, based on the weighing information and the tare weight set in step S17, the weighing processing unit 123 executes weighing processing to subtract the tare weight from the weight weighed by the weighing unit 91. Since the tare weight is set in step S17, the result of the weighing processing is actually the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 minus the weight value of the object to be weighed (tare weight) measured in step S11.

[0084] On the other hand, if it is determined that the first operation was not performed because the tare key 61 was double tapped or not operated at all (S14 / N), the process proceeds to step S18 without setting a tare weight by the setting unit 122. Since a tare weight has not been set here, the weight value of the object to be weighed weighed by the weighing unit 91 actually becomes the result of the weighing process as it is.

[0085] In the flowcharts of FIG. 4 and FIG. 5, when the soft key 610 is operated while the measurement screen 510 including the number entry screen 520 is displayed, the display processing unit 124 may return to step S11 in FIG. 4 and display only the measurement screen 510 on the operation panel 65. The soft key 610 is a soft key operated to interrupt the display of the number entry screen 520 including the numeric keypad 600. In this embodiment, when the number entry screen 520 is displayed on the operation panel 65, the number entry screen 520 may be displayed so as to appear from the bottom to the top of the operation panel 65. In this case, when the soft key 610 is operated, the number entry screen 520 moves from the top to the bottom on the operation panel 65 and is no longer displayed on the operation panel 65.

[0086] 9, the quantity input screen 520 may be provided with a tare setting key 620, which is a soft key different from the tare key 61 and enables the weight of the object to be weighed measured by the weighing unit 91 to be set as a tare weight. In this embodiment, when a second operation is performed on the tare key 61, the quantity input key 520 is displayed on the operation panel 65. For example, when a second operation is performed on the tare key 61 while weighing is being performed by the weighing unit 91, the quantity input screen 520 including the measurement value tare setting key 620 may be displayed.

[0087] In this case, with quantity input screen 520 displayed, the weight of the object to be weighed weighed by weighing unit 91 can be set as the tare weight. For example, when "soy sauce and a plastic bag" are placed on weighing pan 95 and a second operation is performed on tare key 61, display processing unit 124 displays quantity input screen 520 having tare setting key 620. Then, when tare setting key 620 is operated, setting unit 122 sets "5.6 g", which is the weight of "soy sauce and a plastic bag" weighed by weighing unit 91, as the tare weight.

[0088] 9, for example, quantity input screen 520 may be provided with a SW key 607, which is a soft key different from tare key 61 and can set a weight determined based on the weight of the object to be weighed weighed by weighing unit 91 and the weight input as a quantity using numeric keypad 600, as a tare weight. For example, when weighing is being performed by weighing unit 91, if a second operation is performed on tare key 61, quantity input screen 520 including SW key 607 may be displayed.

[0089] In this case, by operating the SW key 607, a value input as a number using the numeric keypad 600 is added to or subtracted from the weight of the object to be weighed weighed by the weighing unit 91. By operating the SW key 607, the weight obtained by adding or subtracting the weight input as a number using the numeric keypad 600 to or from the weight of the object to be weighed weighed by the weighing unit 91 is displayed in the display area 606. Then, by operating the OK key 604 in a state in which the weight obtained by adding or subtracting the weight input as a number using the numeric keypad 600 to or from the weight of the object to be weighed weighed by the weighing unit 91 is displayed in the display area 606, a weight determined based on the weight of the object to be weighed weighed by the weighing unit 91 and the weight input as a number using the numeric keypad 600 can be set as the tare weight.

[0090] Here, it is assumed that "10.0 g" of "wasabi" is added to "soy sauce and a plastic bag". In this case, when the second operation is performed on the tare key 61 with the "soy sauce and a plastic bag" placed on the weighing pan 95, the display processing unit 124 displays the quantity entry screen 520 having the SW key 607. Then, when the SW key 607 is operated with the weight of the wasabi "10.0 g" entered with the numeric keypad 600, the setting unit 122 sets the weight of "15.6 g" obtained by adding "10.0 g" entered with the numeric keypad 600 to "5.6 g", which is the weight of "soy sauce and a plastic bag" measured by the weighing unit 91, as the tare weight.

[0091] Furthermore, when the quantity input screen 520 is displayed while the weighing unit 91 is performing weighing, the weight of the object being weighed by the weighing unit 91 may be displayed in the display area 606. Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 9, while the weight of the object being weighed by the weighing unit 91 is displayed on the weighing screen 510, the quantity input screen 520 may be displayed overlapping the weighing screen 510.

[0092] As described above, in this embodiment, the tare weight can be set by operating the operation panel 65 of the weighing device 1. When using the weighing device 1, the user does not need to weigh the tare every time a weighing operation is performed, thereby improving the productivity of the weighing operation. Furthermore, in the weighing operation, for example, when weighing is performed multiple times using a tare with the same tare weight, the productivity of the weighing operation can be further improved.

[0093] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the set tare weight is displayed on the operation panel 65. Therefore, after setting a tare weight in a weighing operation, the user can visually check the operation panel 65 to determine whether or not the desired tare weight has been set.

[0094] In this embodiment, the user performs a simple operation to set the tare weight without weighing the container, such as pressing and holding the tare key 61 displayed on the operation panel 65 of the weighing device 1. Therefore, since the tare weight can be set without performing complicated operations on the weighing device 1, it is also possible to improve the user experience during weighing operations.

[0095] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a second operation is performed on the tare key 61, a numeric keypad 600 for inputting the tare weight in numerical value is displayed in the area where the tare key 61 was displayed. Therefore, it is possible to provide a weighing device 1 that can effectively utilize the display area of ​​the touch panel.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a value preset in the weighing device 1 can be set as the tare weight. Therefore, when a tare weight with the same tare weight as a tare weight used in the past is used for weighing, it is possible to improve the productivity of the weighing work. Even in this case, the tare weight can be set without performing complicated operations on the weighing device 1, so that the user experience in the weighing work can be improved.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the user can select either to weigh the container or to set the container weight without weighing it by operating the container key 61 while checking the change in the display of the indicator 51. Therefore, the user can select the container setting method he or she desires with a simple operation, further improving the user experience in the weighing operation.

[0098] <2.3. Modification: Outline of procedure for setting preset values ​​in the weighing device 1> Next, an overview of the procedure for setting a preset value in the weighing device 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 10 to Fig. 12. Fig. 10 and Fig. 11 are flow charts showing the flow of the procedure for setting a preset value in a weighing operation using the weighing device 1. Fig. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a confirmation screen 530 displayed on the operation panel 65 for the user to confirm whether or not to set a preset value.

[0099] 10 and 11, similarly to Figures 4 and 5, the procedure for setting the tare weight will be described on the assumption that the weighing screen 510 is displayed on the operation panel 65 and the weighing operation can be started in the weighing device 1. In the flowchart of Figure 10, the same steps as those in Figure 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0100] When setting a preset value, it is assumed that a container (e.g., a packaging set consisting of soy sauce and a plastic bag) as a weighing object is weighed by the weighing unit 91. In this modified example, it is assumed that a packaging set is placed on the weighing dish 55 (see FIG. 1) as a container, and the procedure for weighing the weight of the packaging set and setting it as a preset value will be described.

[0101] 10, in step S21, selection unit 121 determines whether or not the operation performed on container key 61 is the second operation.

[0102] If the selection unit 121 determines that the operation performed on the container key 61 is not the second operation (S21 / N), the process proceeds to step S13. The process after step S13 is the same as the process explained in <2.2.>, so a duplicated explanation will be omitted.

[0103] On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation performed on the tare key 61 is the second operation (S21 / Y), the selection unit 121 selects execution of the second mode and proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the setting unit 122 receives the weighing information and determines whether the weighing unit 91 is weighing the weight of the weighing object.

[0104] When the setting unit 122 determines in step S22 that the weighing unit 91 is not currently measuring (S22 / N), the process proceeds to step S15. The process after step S15 is the same as the process described in <2.2.>, so a duplicated description will be omitted.

[0105] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S22 that the weighing unit 91 is in the process of weighing (S22 / Y), the setting unit 122 proceeds to step S221 (see FIG. 11) to execute a third setting process of setting the weight of the object to be weighed weighed by the weighing unit as the preset value. In step S221, the display processing unit 124 causes the operation panel 65 to display a confirmation screen 530 (see FIG. 12) for the user to confirm whether or not to set the weight weighed by the weighing unit 91 in step S22 as the preset value.

[0106] 12, confirmation screen 530 displays, as user-operable keys, an OK key 621, a cancel key 622, and a soft key 610. In step S222, setting unit 122 determines whether or not confirmation operation information indicating that OK key 621 has been operated has been received.

[0107] When the confirmation operation information is not received (S222 / N), the display processing unit 124 displays on the operation panel 65 a message indicating that the setting of the preset value is to be canceled. Furthermore, the setting unit 122 ends this process. For example, when an operation is performed on a key other than the OK key 621, or when a predetermined time has elapsed without an operation on the OK key 621, the display processing unit 124 does not receive the confirmation operation information.

[0108] When confirmation operation information is received (S222 / Y), in step S223, the setting unit 122 acquires the weight of the object to be weighed (tare) weighed by the weighing unit 91 from the weighing information. Then, in step S224, the display processing unit 124 transitions the display of the operation panel 65 from the confirmation screen 530 to the quantity input screen 520 (see FIGS. 7 and 9), and displays the numeric keypad 600 on the operation panel 65.

[0109] In step S223, the setting unit 122 determines the weight of the object to be weighed weighed by the weighing unit 91 as the tare weight. In this modified example, it is assumed that "11.6 g" is measured as the weight of a packaging set consisting of soy sauce and a plastic bag as the tare weight. The weight determined as the tare weight in S223 may be displayed in the display area 606 of the quantity input screen 520. The user operates the numeric keypad 600 displayed in step S224 to select which key of the numeric keypad 600 to set the weight determined as the tare weight in S223 to. Here, the explanation will be continued assuming that the key 601 is selected.

[0110] In step S225, the setting unit 122 acquires the operation information and identifies which key has been operated among the soft keys included in the numeric keypad 600. In this case, since the key 601 has been selected as described above, the setting unit 122 updates the information in the preset data table 700 (see FIG. 8) corresponding to the key 601 in step S226.

[0111] Specifically, in step S226, the setting unit 122 updates the tare weight information associated with "key ID=1" corresponding to key 601 from the information included in the preset data table 700. In this modification, the tare weight information associated with "key ID=1" corresponding to key 601 is updated from "5.6 g" to "11.6 g." At this time, the setting date and time information associated with "key ID=1" corresponding to key 601 may be updated at the same time. Then, after updating the information in the preset data table 700 (see FIG. 8), the setting unit 122 ends this process.

[0112] In this way, in the modified example of the first embodiment, a value to be preset as a tare weight can be set with a simpler operation in the weighing device 1. Therefore, since a preset value can be set without performing complicated operations on the weighing device 1, it is possible to improve the user experience in weighing work.

[0113] Furthermore, in this modified example, a confirmation screen 530 is displayed to request a user's confirmation when setting a preset value, thereby making it possible to prevent erroneous registration of a tare weight in the weighing device 1.

[0114] <2.4. Other Modifications> As described above, in this embodiment, either the first mode or the second mode is selected as the tare weight setting mode by operating the tare key 61 displayed on the operation panel 65. Alternatively, either the first mode or the second mode may be selected as the tare weight setting mode by, for example, a mechanical key such as a toggle switch mounted on the housing of the main body 12 of the weighing device 1.

[0115] <<3. Second embodiment>> Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 15. The above-mentioned first embodiment has been described with respect to a configuration in which a controller 100 as a weighing control device is integrally implemented in a weighing device 1. In contrast, the second embodiment will be described with respect to a configuration of a weighing system 1000 having a weighing control device 1A implemented with a controller 200, and a weighing instrument 2A implemented with a weighing unit 93 and an A / D converter 92.

[0116] <3.1. Configuration of the weighing system 1000> First, the operation form of the weighing system 1000 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 13. Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the weighing system 1000 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 13, the weighing system 1000 includes a weighing control device 1A to which a display as a display unit 52 and an input terminal as an operation unit 62 are communicably connected, and a weighing device 2A that can communicate with the weighing control device 1A.

[0117] The display unit 52, the operation unit 62, and the weighing control device 1A may be integrated into one terminal, such as a tablet terminal.

[0118] <3.1.1. Relationship with the first embodiment> Next, the hardware configuration and the functional configuration of the weighing system 1000 will be described with reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15. Fig. 14 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the weighing system 1000. Fig. 15 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of a weighing control device 1A included in the weighing system 1000.

[0119] As an example, the CPU 12, RAM 22, ROM 32, storage medium 42, interface 72, and bus 82 constituting the weighing control device 1A according to the second embodiment are the same as the CPU 10, RAM 20, ROM 30, storage medium 40, interface 70, and bus 80 provided in the weighing device 1 according to the first embodiment. Also, the A / D converter 92 and weighing unit 93 constituting the weighing instrument 2A according to the second embodiment are the same as the A / D converter 90 and weighing unit 91 provided in the weighing device 1 according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, the display unit 52 and operation unit 62 according to the second embodiment are the same as the display unit 50 and operation unit 60 according to the first embodiment.

[0120] As shown in FIG. 15, the weighing control device 1A has a controller 200 that controls the operation of the entire weighing system 1000. The controller 200 includes a communication processing unit 210, a main control unit 220, and a storage unit 230. The communication processing unit 210, the main control unit 220, and the storage unit 230 may respectively perform the operations of the communication processing unit 110, the main control unit 120, and the storage unit 130 provided in the weighing device 1 according to the first embodiment. In this case, the selection unit 221, the setting unit 222, the weighing processing unit 223, and the display processing unit 224 included in the main control unit 220 according to the second embodiment may respectively perform the same operations as the selection unit 121, the setting unit 122, the weighing processing unit 123, and the display processing unit 124 included in the main control unit 120 according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, the first setting information storage unit 231 and the second setting information storage unit 232 included in the storage unit 230 according to the second embodiment may respectively execute the same operations as the first setting information storage unit 131 and the second setting information storage unit 232 included in the storage unit 130 according to the first embodiment. In this case, in the controller 200, the same operations as those of the controller 100 described in the first embodiment are performed, and therefore, in the description of the second embodiment, the description of the first embodiment is applied and the description will be omitted.

[0121] With this configuration, the weighing control device 1A of this embodiment can also receive weighing information from the weighing device 2A via the communication processing unit 210 and perform the same operations as the procedures described in Figures 4 to 12 of the first embodiment.

[0122] <3.2. Other configuration examples of the weighing system 1000> In Fig. 13, the weighing device 2A is a top-pan type electronic scale that measures the weight of an object to be weighed by placing it on a weighing pan provided on the top surface, or a hanging scale that measures the weight of an object to be weighed by hanging it from a hook. In this way, when the weighing device 2A is a hanging scale, the weight of the object to be weighed can be measured even on a non-level surface regardless of the size of the object to be weighed. In addition, when the weighing device 2A is a top-pan type electronic scale, the weight of the object to be weighed can be measured with high accuracy. Note that, as long as it is capable of communicating with the weighing control device 1A, the weighing system 1000 may include weighing devices 2B, 2C, etc. other than the weighing device 2A, as shown in Fig. 13.

[0123] Furthermore, the weighing system 1000 may be configured so that the weighing device 1 and the weighing instrument 2A of the first embodiment are communicatively connected. In this case, the weighing device 1 receives the weighing information output from the weighing instrument 2A and functions as a weighing control device that executes the same operations as those described in Figures 4 to 12. Furthermore, in this case, the screen displayed on the operation panel 65 of the weighing device 1 may be different between when a weighing operation is performed by the weighing device 1 and when a weighing operation is performed by the weighing instrument 2A.

[0124] <<4. Other embodiments>> Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are merely examples and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

[0125] For example, the steps in the processes described herein do not necessarily have to be performed chronologically in the order depicted in the sequence diagrams. For example, the steps in the processes may be performed in an order different from that depicted in the sequence diagrams, or may be performed in parallel. Also, some of the steps in the processes may be deleted, and additional steps may be added to the processes.

[0126] Also, a method may be provided that includes processing of the components described in this specification (e.g., a communication processing unit, a selection unit, a setting unit, a measurement processing unit, a display processing unit, and / or a memory unit), and a program may be provided that causes a processor to execute the processing of the above components. Also, a non-transitory computer readable medium having the program recorded thereon may be provided. Naturally, such devices, modules, methods, programs, and non-transitory computer readable mediums are also included in the present invention.

[0127] <<5. Summary of the embodiment>> [Technical field] The present invention relates to a weighing control device, a weighing device, a weighing system, and a control program used when weighing an object to be weighed. [Background technology] Weighing devices used in food stores, household kitchens, etc. have traditionally been equipped with a tare function that weighs items without the weight of containers, accessories, etc. Such weighing devices are equipped with an operating section such as a button or key, and when a tare is placed on the weighing device and the operating section is operated, the tare is subtracted and the weight displayed on the display becomes "0." By subsequently placing an object to be weighed on the weighing pan and weighing it, only the weight of the object to be weighed can be measured. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a weighing device of this type that can be switched between an automatic mode in which tare subtraction is performed automatically and a manual mode in which tare subtraction is performed manually by pressing and holding a tare key. The automatic mode in Patent Document 1 refers to an operation in which tare subtraction is performed when the weighing value in the weighing device remains stable for a certain period of time. The manual mode refers to an operation in which tare subtraction is performed each time the tare key is operated. [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] JP 2010-122083 A [Summary of the invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention] Incidentally, when weighing an object to be weighed, there is a need to combine the weight of the food packaging and the weight of the preservative and subtract the tare weight at once. In response to this, with the weighing device of Patent Document 1, it is necessary to load the packaging and the preservative on the weighing device and perform tare subtraction in either automatic or manual mode every time the weight of an object to be weighed is weighed. Therefore, even if the combined weight of the packaging and the preservative is the same, the productivity of the weighing work is reduced because it is not possible to subtract the tare weight unless the packaging and the preservative are weighed. The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and has an object to improve the productivity of weighing operations involving tare subtraction. [Means for solving the problem] (1) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device connected to a weighing unit that weighs the weight of an object to be weighed and an operation unit operated by a user, the weighing control device comprising: a selection unit that determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operation unit based on operation information related to the operation on the operation unit; and, when it is determined that the first operation has been performed, selects a first mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit in association with the first operation is set as a tare weight; and, when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, selects a second mode in which a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on a weight input in the operation unit can be set as the tare weight; and a setting unit that sets the tare weight based on the mode selected by the selection unit. According to the above configuration, since the tare weight can be set by operating the operation panel, the user does not need to weigh the tare weight every time a weighing operation is performed. Therefore, the productivity of the weighing operation can be improved. Furthermore, in the weighing operation, for example, when a tare with the same tare weight is used to perform weighing multiple times, the productivity of the weighing operation can be further improved. (2) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing control device described in (1), which is characterized in that it is provided with a display processing unit that displays the tare weight on a display unit that displays weighing information related to weighing by the weighing unit. According to the above configuration, after setting a tare weight in a weighing operation, the user can visually check the operation panel to determine whether or not the desired tare weight has been set. (3) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing control device described in (2), wherein the operation unit and the display unit are integrally configured as a touch panel, and the display processing unit, when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, causes the display unit to display a plurality of soft keys that enable digit input and are operated in the second mode. According to the above configuration, when the second operation is performed on the tare key, a numeric keypad for setting the tare weight by entering a number is displayed in the area where the tare key was displayed, making it possible to effectively utilize the display area of ​​the touch panel. (4) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing control device described in (3), characterized in that when the setting unit receives first setting operation information regarding a third operation of the plurality of soft keys from the operation unit when the second mode is being executed and weighing is not being performed by the weighing unit, the setting unit is capable of executing a first setting process to set the weight entered by operating the plurality of soft keys as the tare weight, and when the setting unit receives second setting operation information regarding a fourth operation different from the third operation of the plurality of soft keys from the operation unit, the setting unit is capable of executing a second setting process to set the tare weight to the preset value set in the soft key operated in the fourth operation among the plurality of soft keys. According to the above configuration, when setting a tare weight by inputting a numerical value, the user performs a simple operation such as pressing and holding the tare key displayed on the operation panel. Therefore, since the tare weight can be set without performing any complicated operations on the weighing device 1, it is possible to improve the user experience in weighing operations. Also, even when performing weighing using a preset value as the tare weight, the user can set the tare weight without performing any complicated operations, which makes it possible to improve the user experience in weighing operations. (5) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing control device described in (4), wherein the setting unit is capable of executing a third setting process, when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, to set the weight of the weighing object weighed by the weighing unit as the preset value to one of the plurality of soft keys while weighing is being performed by the weighing unit. According to the above configuration, the user can set the preset value of the tare weight with a simpler operation, thereby improving the user experience in weighing operations. (6) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing control device described in (5), wherein when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, the display processing unit displays a confirmation screen on the display unit for performing an operation to confirm whether or not to allow execution of the third setting process while weighing is being performed by the weighing unit, and the setting unit executes the third setting process when it receives confirmation operation information from the operation unit regarding an operation to allow execution of the third setting process on the confirmation screen. According to the above configuration, a confirmation screen is displayed to request a user's confirmation when setting a preset value, which makes it possible to prevent erroneous registration of the preset tare weight. (7) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device described in any one of (3) to (6), wherein the display processing unit causes the display unit to display a first key, which is a soft key that is not displayed in the display area of ​​the display unit simultaneously with the multiple soft keys, and the first operation is an operation of the first key, and the second operation is an operation of the first key in an aspect different from the first operation. According to the above configuration, when the second operation is performed on the tare key, a numeric keypad for setting the tare amount by entering a number is displayed in the area where the tare key was displayed. This allows the user to select the tare setting method they desire with a simple operation, and makes effective use of the display area of ​​the touch panel. (8) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing control device described in (7), wherein the display processing unit, when the operation time of the first key is less than a predetermined time, causes the display unit to display that the operation of the first key is the first operation, and, when the operation time of the first key is equal to or longer than the predetermined time, causes the display unit to display that the operation of the first key is the second operation, and then transitions the display on the display unit from the first key to the multiple soft keys. With the above configuration, the user can select either to weigh the container or to set the container weight without weighing it by operating the container key while checking the change in the display of the indicator. Therefore, the user can select the container setting method he or she desires with a simple operation, further improving the user experience during weighing operations. (9) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing control device described in (8), wherein the selection unit determines that the first operation has been performed when the operation time of the first key does not reach the predetermined time, and determines that the second operation has been performed when the operation time of the first key is equal to or longer than the predetermined time. With the above configuration, the user can select either to weigh the container or to set the container weight without weighing it by operating the container key while checking the change in the display of the indicator. Therefore, the user can select the container setting method he or she desires with a simple operation, further improving the user experience during weighing operations. (10) One aspect of the present embodiment is the weighing control device according to any one of (2) to (9), characterized in that it includes the operation unit and the display unit. The above configuration provides the same effects as (2) to (9). (11) One aspect of the present embodiment is a weighing control device according to any one of (1) to (10), characterized in that it includes the weighing unit. The above configuration provides the same effects as (1) to (10). (12) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing device including the weighing control device according to any one of (1) to (11). The above configuration provides the same effects as (1) to (11). (13) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing system including the weighing control device according to any one of (1) to (11). The above configuration provides the same effects as (1) to (11). (14) One aspect of this embodiment is a control program for a weighing control device connected to a weighing unit that weighs the weight of an object to be weighed and an operation unit operated by a user, the control program causing a computer to execute the following steps: determine whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operation unit based on operation information regarding an operation on the operation unit; if it is determined that the first operation has been performed, select a first mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit in association with the first operation is set as a tare weight; if it is determined that the second operation has been performed, select a second mode in which a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on a weight input in the operation unit can be set as the tare weight; and set the tare weight based on the selected mode. According to the above configuration, as in (1), since the tare weight can be set by operating the operation panel, the user does not need to weigh the tare every time a weighing operation is performed. Therefore, the productivity of the weighing operation can be improved. Furthermore, in the weighing operation, for example, when a tare with the same tare weight is used to perform weighing multiple times, the productivity of the weighing operation can be further improved. [Explanation of symbols]

[0128] 1 Weighing device 1A Metering control device 2A measuring instrument 2B Measuring instrument 2C measuring instrument 11 Main body 40 Storage medium 42 Storage medium 50 Display section 51 Indicator 52 Display section 53 Weight display area 55 Weighing pan 56 Level 60 Control section 61 Tare key 62 Operation section 65 Operation Panel 70 Interface (I / F) 72 Interface (I / F) 80 Bus 82 Bus 90 A / D Converter 91 Measuring section 92 A / D Converter 93 Measuring section 100 Controller 110 Communication processing unit 120 Main control unit 121 Selection section 122 Setting section 123 Weighing Processing Unit 124 Display Processing Unit 130 Storage section 131 1st setting information storage section 132 2nd setting information storage section 200 Controller 210 Communication processing unit 220 Main control unit 221 Selection Section 222 Setting section 223 Weighing Processing Section 224 Display Processing Unit 230 Storage section 231 1st setting information storage unit 232 2nd setting information storage unit 504 OK key 510 Weighing screen 520 Number entry screen 530 Confirmation Screen 600 Numeric Keypad 601 Key 602 Keys 603 Key 604 OK key 605 CLR key 606 Display area 607 SW Key 610 Softkeys 620 Tare setting key 621 OK key 622 Cancel key 700 Preset Data Table 1000 Weighing System

Claims

[Claim 1] A weighing control device connected to a weighing unit that weighs an object to be weighed and an operation unit that is operated by a user, a selection unit which determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operation unit based on operation information related to the operation on the operation unit, and selects a first mode in which a weight measured by the weighing unit in association with the first operation is set as a tare weight when it is determined that the first operation has been performed, and selects a second mode in which a weight determined based on a predetermined weight or a weight inputted in a numerical value on the operation unit can be set as the tare weight when it is determined that the second operation has been performed; A setting unit that sets the tare weight based on the mode selected by the selection unit. Metering control device.

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