Distribution device, distribution method, and distribution program

Abstract

To determine which container is distributed to which computer resource on the basis of contents of a process to an object.SOLUTION: A distribution device (10) for distributing a container (CT) to a processing system (20) having a device (22) and a computer resource (21), includes a storage unit which stores first information which indicates a processing content of the processing system and a container for executing the processing content in correspondence to each other, second information which indicates the container and the device in correspondence to each other, and third information which indicates a computer resource and a device connected to the computer resource in correspondence to each other. The distribution device accepts the processing content in the processing system, and selects a container for executing the accepted processing content, and a computer resource for distributing the container.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a distribution device, a distribution method, and a distribution program for distributing a container, which is software for processing a target.

Background Art

[0002] An OT (Operation Technology) system for processing a target is used in a factory or the like. Patent Document 1 discloses a processing system including an orchestrator that releases a container including a user program for defining a control operation for a control target to a control device.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the processing system described in Patent Document 1, the orchestrator selects a container to be released and determines a release destination according to a user operation (Claim 8). That is, in the processing system described in Patent Document 1, it is not shown that the container and the release destination are automatically determined.

[0005] The technology in the present disclosure was devised in view of the above problems, and its object is to provide a distribution device, a distribution method, and a distribution program that determine which container to distribute to which computer resource based on the content of processing for a target.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The distribution device in the present disclosure is a distribution device for distributing one or more containers to a processing system having one or more devices for processing a target and one or more computer resources related to the control of the one or more devices, a storage unit that stores first information representing in correspondence the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content, second information representing in correspondence the container and the type of device operated by the container, and third information representing in correspondence the computer resource and the type of device connected to the computer resource; and at least one processor, the at least one processor executing a reception process of receiving the processing content in the processing system, and a selection process of selecting one or more containers for executing the processing content received in the reception process and a computer resource for distributing each of the one or more containers based on the first information, the second information, and the third information.

[0007] The distribution method in the present disclosure is a distribution method for distributing one or more containers to a processing system having one or more devices for processing a target and one or more computer resources related to the control of the one or more devices, including a reception process of receiving the processing content in the processing system, and a selection process of selecting one or more containers for executing the processing content received in the reception process and a computer resource for distributing each of the one or more containers based on first information, second information, and third information, wherein the first information represents in correspondence the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content, the second information represents in correspondence the container and the type of device used by the container, and the third information represents in correspondence the computer resource and the type of device connected to the computer resource.

[0008] The distribution program in the present disclosure causes a computer to function as a distribution device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to the technology in the present disclosure, a distribution device, a distribution method, and a distribution program can be provided that determine which container is to be distributed to which computer resource based on the content of the processing for the target.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, several exemplary embodiments for implementing the present invention are disclosed. However, the present invention is not limited to each of the exemplary embodiments disclosed below, and various modifications are possible within the scope shown in the claims. For example, a form obtained by appropriately combining the technical means employed in each of the exemplary embodiments disclosed below may also be included in the scope of the present invention.

[0012] 〔First Exemplary Embodiment〕 The first exemplary embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The first exemplary embodiment is a basic form for each of the exemplary embodiments described below. Note that the scope of application of each technical means employed in this exemplary embodiment is not limited to this exemplary embodiment. That is, each technical means employed in this exemplary embodiment can be employed in other exemplary embodiments included in the present disclosure as long as there are no particular technical obstacles. In addition, each technical means shown in the drawings referred to for explaining this exemplary embodiment can also be employed in other exemplary embodiments included in the present disclosure as long as there are no particular technical obstacles.

[0013] (Configuration of the Distribution Device) The configuration of the distribution / processing system 1 according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the distribution / processing system 1. As shown in FIG. 1, the distribution / processing system includes a distribution device 10 and one or more processing systems 20(i).

[0014] The distribution device 10 is a device for distributing the container CT to one or more processing systems 20(i) (computer resources 21), and includes an information processing unit 11, a storage unit 12, an input unit 13, and a distribution unit 14. The container CT is a unit of software that constitutes the processing system 20(i), and includes, for example, a runtime image that encapsulates a user program and an execution environment for executing the user program.

[0015] The processing system 20(i) is a system for processing a target OB, and has computer resources 21(i) and a device 22(i). The target OB is, for example, a tangible object (as an example, a product). The processing is, for example, the manufacturing, movement, inspection, and management of the target OB, and generally includes specific processing on the target OB.

[0016] The information processing unit 11 executes the distribution method S10 described later. The storage unit 12 stores the following first information I1, second information I2, and third information I3. The details of these information will be described later. The input unit 13 is an input mechanism for the user to input the processing content in the processing system 20, for example, a keyboard or a touch panel. The distribution unit 14 is a communication mechanism that distributes one or more containers CT to the one or more computer resources 21.

[0017] The first information I1 is information that correspondingly represents the processing content in the processing system 20 and one or more containers CT for executing the processing content. The second information I2 is information that correspondingly represents a container CT and a device 22 operated by the container CT. The third information I3 is information that correspondingly represents computer resources 21 and a device 22 connected to the computer resources 21.

[0018] The computer resource 21(i) is a computer element related to the control of the device 22(i), for example, a processor (as an example, a CPU: Central Processing Unit), and can be arranged, for example, at the site where processing on the target OB is executed or in the cloud.

[0019] Device 22(i) is connected to computer resource 21(i) and is a device for processing the target OB, such as a robot or a conveyor. However, device 22(i) does not necessarily have to be connected to computer resource 21(i). Generally, computer resource 21(i) arranged in the cloud does not need to be directly involved in the processing of the target OB and does not need to connect device 22(i) for processing the target OB. Examples of tasks that are not directly involved in the processing of the target OB include, for example, formulating a processing plan.

[0020] (Flow of the distribution method) The flow of distribution method S10 according to this exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the flow of distribution method S10. As shown in FIG. 2, distribution method S10 includes a reception process S11, a selection process S12, and a distribution process S13.

[0021] Reception process S11 is a process of receiving the processing content in processing system 20. Examples of the processing content include, for example, picking of the target OB and processing of the target OB (as an example, part processing).

[0022] Selection process S12 is a process of selecting one or more containers CT for executing the processing content received in reception process S11 and computer resource 21 for distributing each of the one or more containers CT based on first information I1, second information I2, and third information I3.

[0023] Distribution process S13 is a process of distributing one or more containers CT to the one or more computer resources 21. By distributing one or more containers CT to one or more computer resources 21, the processing of the target object OB by processing system 20 becomes possible.

[0024] (Distribution device) The distribution device 10 is a distribution device for distributing one or more containers CT to a processing system 20(i) having one or more devices 22(i) that process a target and one or more computer resources 21(i) related to the control of the one or more devices 22(i). The distribution device 10 includes a storage unit 12 that stores first information I1 that correspondingly represents the processing content in the processing system 20(i) and one or more containers CT for executing the processing content, second information I2 that correspondingly represents the container CT and the device 22(i) operated by the container, and third information I3 that correspondingly represents the computer resource 21(i) and the device 22(i) connected to the computer resource 21(i), and an information processing unit 11. The information processing unit 11 executes a reception process for receiving the processing content in the processing system 20(i), and a selection process for selecting one or more containers CT for executing the processing content received in the reception process and a computer resource 21(i) for distributing each of the one or more containers CT based on the first information I1, the second information I2, and the third information I3.

[0025] (Effect of the distribution device) In the distribution device 10, based on the first information I1 that correspondingly represents the processing content in the processing system 20(i) and one or more containers CT for executing the processing content, the second information I2 that correspondingly represents the container CT and the device 22(i) operated by the container CT, and the third information I3 that correspondingly represents the computer resource 21(i) and the device 22(i) connected to the computer resource 21(i), it is possible to select one or more containers CT for executing the processing content received in the reception process and a computer resource for distributing each of the one or more containers CT. That is, the distribution device 10 can determine which container CT to distribute to which computer resource 21(i) based on the content of the processing for the target OB.

[0026] (Distribution method) The distribution method S10 is a distribution method for distributing one or more containers to a processing system having one or more devices for processing a target and one or more computer resources related to the control of the one or more devices, the distribution method including: a reception process for receiving processing content in the processing system; and a selection process for selecting one or more containers for executing the processing content received in the reception process and computer resources for distributing each of the one or more containers, based on first information, second information, and third information, wherein the first information represents a correspondence between processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content, the second information represents a correspondence between a container and a device used by the container, and the third information represents a correspondence between computer resource 21(i) and a device 22(i) connected to the computer resource 21(i).

[0027] As described above, in the distribution method S10, one or more containers for executing processing content and one or more computer resources can be selected based on the first information, the second information, and the third information. That is, according to the distribution method S10, it is possible to determine which container CT to distribute to which computer resource 21(i) based on the content of the processing for the target OB.

[0028] 〔Second Exemplary Embodiment〕 The second exemplary embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Components having the same functions as those described in the above-described exemplary embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. Note that the scope of application of each technical means employed in this exemplary embodiment is not limited to this exemplary embodiment. That is, each technical means employed in this exemplary embodiment can be employed in other exemplary embodiments included in the present disclosure as long as there is no particular technical obstacle. In addition, each technical means shown in each drawing referred to for explaining this exemplary embodiment can be employed in other exemplary embodiments included in the present disclosure as long as there is no particular technical obstacle.

[0029] The distribution / processing system 1 according to the second exemplary embodiment can be shown by FIG. 1, similar to the distribution / processing system 1 according to the first exemplary embodiment. Therefore, the description of the configuration similar to that of the first exemplary embodiment will be basically omitted, and the differences from the first exemplary embodiment will be described.

[0030] Hereinafter, examples of the first information I1, the second information I2, and the third information I3 stored in the storage unit 12 will be described.

[0031] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a manifest template repository as an example of the first information I1. This manifest template repository corresponds to and represents the following: (1) ID, (2) template name, (3) location constraint, (4) container used, and (5) annotation.

[0032] (1) The ID is an identifier for identifying a template of the processing content in the processing system 20. Here, the numbers 1 and 2 are assigned as the ID.

[0033] (2) The template name is the name of the template. Here, the template name means an overview of the processing content in the processing system 20. "Picking" means that the target OB is picked by a robot or the like. "Component processing" means that the target OB is processed (component processing).

[0034] (3) The location constraint is a constraint on the location (e.g., factory, room, line) where the processing of the target OB is executed. "Same line" means that the target object OB is processed within the same line.

[0035] (4) The container used means one or more containers (container CT) for executing the processing content. A container means one unit of software for causing the computer resource 21 to execute an operation. Note that software components may be used instead of containers.

[0036] The containers used in the template for "Picking" (ID: 1) are the robot planning container, the robot picking container, and the conveyor control container. The "robot planning container" is a container for formulating a picking plan for the target OB (product). The "robot picking container" is a container for causing the device 22 (robot) to execute picking of the target OB (product). The "conveyor control container" is a container for controlling the conveyor that moves the target OB (product) to be picked.

[0037] The containers used in the template for "Component Processing" (ID: 2) are the robot planning container (for processing), the robot processing container, the robot planning container (for air blow), the robot air blow container, and the conveyor control container. The "robot planning container (for processing)" is a container for formulating a processing (component processing) plan for the target OB (product). The "robot processing container" is a container for causing the device 22 (robot) to execute processing (component processing) of the target OB (product). The "robot planning container (for air blow)" is a container for formulating an air blow plan for the target OB (product). The "robot air blow container" is a container for causing the device 22 (robot) to execute air blow of the target OB (product). The conveyor control container is a container for controlling the conveyor that moves the target OB (product) to be processed.

[0038] (5) The annotation is an annotation for the processing content and represents the details of the processing content in the processing system 20.

[0039] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing a software repository as an example of the second information I2. This software repository corresponds and represents the following: (1) container ID, (2) container name, (3) required devices, (4) required specifications, and (5) annotations.

[0040] (1) The container ID is an identifier for identifying the container. Here, the numbers 1 to 5 are assigned as the container ID.

[0041] (2) The container name is the name of the container. Here, the container name means the content of the processing in the container and corresponds to the "Used Container" in Figure 3. The robot planning container is a container for formulating the operation plan of the robot. The robot picking container is a container for causing the robot to pick the object OB. The conveyor control container is a container for controlling the conveyor that moves the robot. The robot processing container is a container for causing the robot to process (for example, weld) the object OB. The robot air blow container is a container for causing the robot to blow air on the object OB.

[0042] (3) The required device means a device that operates by a container (container). This item represents the type of device (robot, conveyor) connected to the computer resource, or that the connection of the device to the computer resource is unnecessary (Non). For example, in formulating a plan, a device for processing is unnecessary.

[0043] (4) The required specification means the specification (performance) required for the computer resource that operates by a container (container). ">middle" means that a computer resource with a specification of middle or higher (that is, middle or high) is required. "-" means that the specification can be any of low, middle, and high.

[0044] (5) The annotation is an annotation for the content of the processing in the container, and the content of the processing of the container for each container ID is shown.

[0045] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing a device information list as an example of the third information I3. This device information list corresponds to the following: (1) resource ID, (2) CPU, (3) specification / cost (or, specification), (4) network, (5) location, and (6) connected device. Here, the list is divided into two according to whether the location where the computer resources are arranged is either the cloud or the execution environment (on-site), but these can also be combined into one list.

[0046] (1) The resource ID is an identifier for identifying computer resources. Here, the numbers 1 to 9 are assigned as the resource ID. Resource IDs 1 to 3 correspond to the cloud, and resource IDs 4 to 9 correspond to the execution environment (on-site).

[0047] (2) The CPU represents the type of computer resource (here, the CPU). Here, two types of computer resources, X86 and arm, are shown.

[0048] (3) The specification and cost respectively mean the specification (performance) of the computer resource (here, the CPU) and the cost for using the computer resource.

[0049] For resource IDs 1 to 3, both the specification and the cost (specification / cost) are shown, and for resource IDs 4 to 9, only the specification is shown. The cost is shown only in the case of the cloud (resource IDs 1 to 3) because the usage fee (for example, time charge) for using the cloud's computer resources is considered. However, a cost may also be set for the computer resources in the execution environment.

[0050] As the specification, three levels of low, middle, and high are shown. Similarly, for the cost, three levels of low, middle, and high are shown. Here, the classification of the specification and the cost is made consistent, but these classifications may also be made different.

[0051] (4) The network indicates a network that can be connected to computer resources. "Any" means that it can be connected if it is a global network (for example, the Internet). "SubnetA" and "SubnetB" indicate local networks that can be connected to the computer resources.

[0052] (5) The location indicates the location where the computer resources are placed. Here, the cloud, Line A, and Line B are shown.

[0053] (6) The connection device indicates a device that is connected to and operated on the computer resources, and is an item corresponding to the "required device" in FIG. 4. This item represents the type of device connected to the computer resources (robot, conveyor), or that no connection of the device to the computer resources is required (Non). For example, in the planning of a plan, a device for processing is not required. The device information list preferably also includes information on the functions (such as picking, blowing, processing, etc.) of the robot.

[0054] (Flow of the distribution method) FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of the distribution method S100 executed by the distribution device 10 according to the second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the distribution method S100 includes a reception process S101, a selection process S102, a determination process S103, a distribution process S105, and an exchange instruction process S107.

[0055] The reception process S101 is a process of receiving the processing content in the processing system 20 and the required conditions for this processing. In the reception process S101, the processing content and the required conditions input by the user from the input unit 13 are received.

[0056] Examples of the processing content include picking of the target OB and processing of the target OB (as an example, part processing). The user can specify the processing content, for example, by inputting the ID of the manifest template repository in FIG. 3 or the template name.

[0057] As requirements for the process, for example, the range of the performance (specifications, e.g., the execution speed of tasks) of the processing system 20, the range of the cost (e.g., the usage fee of the cloud computer resources 21), the range of the number of devices 22 of a predetermined type (e.g., robots) included in the processing system 20, the location where the process is executed (within the same room, within the same line), the range of the time required for the process (tact time), and the range of the distance between devices can be mentioned. Also, the requirements may be the specification of the range of the container version.

[0058] The selection process S102 is a process of selecting one or more containers CT for executing the process content under the above requirements received in the reception process S101 and the computer resources 21 for distributing each of the one or more containers CT based on the first information I1, the second information I2, and the third information I3.

[0059] The determination process S103 is a process of determining whether the processing system 20 having one or more devices 22, one or more containers CT, and one or more computer resources 21 selected in the selection process S102 can execute the process content under the requirements received in the reception process S101.

[0060] The information processing unit 11 executes the determination process S103 based on the first information I1, the second information I2, and the third information I3.

[0061] At this time, one or more computer resources 21 are arranged at the site where the process is executed or in the cloud. The computer resources 21 arranged at the site are connected to the devices 22 arranged at the site. The computer resources 21 arranged in the cloud do not require device connection. The item "connected device" in the third information I3 or the item "necessary device" in the second information I2 preferably indicates the type of the device connected to the computer resources or that device connection to the computer resources is unnecessary.

[0062] In the determination process S103, for example, the robot physical simulator determines whether the execution of the processing content is prevented due to interference or collision between robots or between a robot and a conveyor. If the execution of the processing content is prevented due to interference or collision, the combination of robots is changed to determine a combination that can complete the operation in the simulation.

[0063] When it is determined in the determination process S103 that the processing system 20 can execute the processing content under the requested conditions received in the reception process S101 (''YES'' in step S104), the information processing unit 11 distributes the selected one or more containers CT to the selected one or more computer resources 21 (distribution process S105). If it is not determined that the distribution process S105 can be executed, the information processing unit 11 returns to the reception process S101.

[0064] At this time, the information processing unit 11 may issue a warning (error) to the user indicating that the processing content and the requested conditions are inappropriate, and prompt for re - input. Alternatively, the information processing unit 11 may present a combination of a container, a computer resource, and a device that can obtain the result closest to the requested conditions, and request confirmation. This confirmation means asking for an answer as to whether to execute the processing on the target OB according to the presented combination.

[0065] On the other hand, when there are multiple combinations that satisfy the requested conditions, the combination may be determined according to a preset priority. Alternatively, a plurality of combinations may be presented, and the user may be asked to answer which combination to adopt. As the priority, for example, the highest performance or the lowest cost can be adopted.

[0066] The distribution process S105 is a process of distributing one or more containers CT to one or more computer resources 21. By distributing one or more containers CT to one or more computer resources 21, the processing system 20 can process the target object OB.

[0067] The information processing unit 11 may determine whether part replacement of the device is necessary (step S106). At this time, for example, it is preferable that the second information I2 or the third information I3 includes information on replacement parts of the device 22.

[0068] When the information processing unit 11 determines that part replacement of the device is necessary ( "YES" in step S106), it instructs part replacement (step S107). On the other hand, when it is determined that part replacement of the device is unnecessary ( "NO" in step S106), no instruction for part replacement is given.

[0069] The instruction for part replacement may be given to either the user or the device (for example, a robot). For example, the information processing unit 11 instructs the user to replace the robot hand, and the user goes to the execution environment (the site) to replace the robot hand. On the other hand, when the robot has a mechanism (hand changer) for automatically replacing its own hand, the information processing unit 11 can instruct the robot to replace the hand.

[0070] As described above, when the parts of the device are replaced, the processing of the object OB by the processing system 20 is executed (step S108). Note that this part replacement may be instructed and executed during the processing of the object OB by the processing system 20.

[0071] (Effect of the distribution device) As described above, in the distribution device 10 according to the present embodiment, in the reception process S101, the processing content in the processing system 20 and the required conditions for the processing are received. Further, in the selection process S102, one or more containers CT for executing the processing content and computer resources 21 for distributing each of the one or more containers CT are selected according to the required conditions received in the reception process S101. Therefore, according to the distribution device 10 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to select a container CT and computer resources 21 for executing the processing content according to the required conditions.

[0072] Next, in the second embodiment, examples in the case where the processing content and the required conditions for the processing are changed will be described.

[0073] (Example 1) As Example 1, a case will be described where the user selects a "picking" template (performs picking of products conveyed on a conveyor using a robot) and selects "as high performance as possible" as the required condition.

[0074] When the information processing unit 11 receives the input information, it selects a template for performing picking from the manifest template repository (information I1), and acquires a list of containers used in this template. The information processing unit 11 acquires a list of devices operated by the containers from the device information list (information I2), and further acquires a list of computer resources for distributing the containers from the container repository (information I3). In this example, for picking, container IDs 1 to 3 are selected, and their destinations are determined.

[0075] For the "robot planning container" of container ID 1, the information processing unit 11 compares the "required devices" and "required specifications" in the container repository with the "connected devices" and "specifications" in the device information list, and acquires a list of computer resources capable of executing the processing content. Here, resource IDs 1, 2, 4, and 6 are selected. For the "robot picking container" of container ID 2, resource IDs 4, 5, and 8 are selected. For the "conveyor control container" of container ID 3, resource IDs 6, 7, and 9 are selected.

[0076] The information processing unit 11 refers to the acquired resource ID, refers to the "location constraint" (here, the constraint of "same line") in the manifest template, and selects a resource ID that satisfies this constraint. In order to realize the requirement condition of "as high performance as possible", the information processing unit 11 selects computer resources in descending order of high specifications from the selected resource IDs. FIG. 7 shows this result. In the case of this example, resource IDs 1, 4, and 6 are selected for the robot planning container, the robot picking container, and the conveyor control container, respectively.

[0077] (Example 2) As Example 2, the case where the user selects "picking" and selects "as low cost as possible" as the requirement condition will be described.

[0078] Also in Example 2, container IDs 1 to 3 are selected in the same manner as in Example 1, and their delivery destinations are determined. FIG. 8 shows this result. In the case of this example, the cost is reduced by not using cloud computer resources for the robot planning container.

[0079] (Example 3) As Example 3, the case where the user selects "parts processing" and selects "up to 1 robot" as the requirement condition will be described.

[0080] Containers used for parts processing (robot planning container (for processing), robot processing container, robot planning container (for air blow), robot air blow container, conveyor control container) are extracted from the manifest template. In this example, for parts processing, container IDs 1, 4, 1, 5, and 3 are selected.

[0081] Here, the "robot planning container" with container ID1 can be used for the robot planning container (for processing) and the robot planning container (for air blowing). Note that another container may be used for the robot planning container (for processing) and the robot planning container (for air blowing). Also, the robot assigned to resource ID4 is a multi-functional robot capable of both processing and air blowing.

[0082] For the selected container, computer resources are selected so that the number of robots is up to 1. Figure 9 shows this result. In this example, the same computer resources (resource ID4) are used for both processing (robot processing) and air blowing (robot air blowing). That is, by applying the robot assigned to resource ID4 to multiple tasks, "up to 1 robot" is realized.

[0083] (Example 4) As Example 4, the case where the user selects "parts processing" and selects "as high performance as possible" as the requirement conditions will be described.

[0084] However, in Example 4, the device information list is different from that shown in Figure 5. Figure 10 is a diagram showing the device information list used in Example 4. The robots in the device information list of Figure 10 can exchange parts (hands). The robot corresponding to resource ID4 can exchange the gripper hand for picking and the air blowing hand for air blowing. The robot corresponding to resource ID5 can exchange the gripper hand for picking and the welding hand for welding. The robot corresponding to resource ID8 can exchange the air blowing hand and the welding hand.

[0085] The information processing unit 11 selects the computer resources corresponding to the container shown in the template of "parts processing" in Figure 3. Figure 11 shows this result. The information processing unit 11 assigns the robot processing container to resource ID5 and assigns the robot air blowing container to resource ID4.

[0086] When it is necessary to replace the hand of the robot, the information processing unit 11 instructs the replacement of the parts (step S107). That is, it instructs the robots with resource IDs 4 and 5 which robot hand to attach. As described above, this instruction may be given to either the user or a device (e.g., a robot).

[0087] (Example 5) As Example 4, an example where it is necessary to distribute the container considering the positional relationship of the on-site devices is shown. In this example, the device information list has the installation positions of resource IDs 4 to 9. Also, the requirement condition is "as high performance as possible".

[0088] In this example, before distributing the container, it is confirmed on the robot physical simulator considering the physical arrangement of the devices whether the distribution result is executable in the real world. For example, the information processing unit 11 assigns a robot planning container (for processing), a robot planning container (for air blowing), a robot processing container, a robot air blowing container, and a conveyor control container to the cloud computer resource of resource ID 1, the robot of resource ID 4, the robot of resource ID 5, and the conveyor of resource ID 6, respectively, so as to be "as high performance as possible".

[0089] After that, before distribution, it is determined by the robot physical simulator whether the execution of the processing content is obstructed (step S103). If it is determined that the execution of the processing content is not obstructed, the container is distributed (steps S104, S105).

[0090] (Modification example) The requirement condition for the processing may be a requirement for specifying the computer resources on which the container operates. For example, the resource IDs used for the robot planning container and the robot picking container are specified. At this time, either a part or all of the container may be specified.

[0091] [Example of realization by software] Some or all of the functions of the distribution device 10 may be realized by hardware such as an integrated circuit (IC chip), or may be realized by software.

[0092] In the latter case, the distribution device 10 is realized by, for example, a computer that executes instructions of a program, which is software that realizes each function. An example of such a computer (hereinafter referred to as computer CP) is shown in FIG. 13. The computer CP includes at least one processor PR and at least one memory ME. A program P for operating the computer CP as the distribution device 10 is recorded in the memory ME. In the computer CP, the processor PR reads and executes the program P from the memory ME, thereby realizing each function of the distribution device 10.

[0093] As the processor PR, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphic Processing Unit), DSP (Digital Signal Processor), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), FPU (Floating point number Processing Unit), PPU (Physics Processing Unit), TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), quantum processor, microcontroller, or a combination thereof can be used. As the memory ME, for example, a flash memory, HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), or a combination thereof can be used.

[0094] Note that the computer CP may further include a RAM (Random Access Memory) for expanding the program P during execution or temporarily storing various data. The computer CP may further include a communication interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from other devices. The computer CP may further include an input / output interface for connecting input / output devices such as a keyboard, mouse, display, and printer.

[0095] Also, the program P can be recorded on a non-transitory tangible recording medium M readable by the computer CP. As such a recording medium M, for example, a tape, disk, card, semiconductor memory, or programmable logic circuit can be used. The computer CP can acquire the program P via such a recording medium M. Also, the program P can be transmitted via a transmission medium. As such a transmission medium, for example, a communication network or broadcast wave can be used. The computer CP can also acquire the program P via such a transmission medium.

[0096] 〔Supplementary Note 1〕 The present invention is supported by the above-described various forms. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described various forms, and various modifications are possible within the scope indicated in the claims. For example, forms obtained by appropriately combining the technical means included in the above-described various forms are also included in the scope of the present invention.

[0097] 〔Supplementary Note 2〕 The present disclosure can also be expressed as follows in each of the following supplementary notes. However, the present disclosure is not limited to each of the following supplementary notes. (Supplementary Note 1) A distribution device for distributing one or more containers to a processing system having one or more devices for processing an object and one or more computer resources related to the control of the one or more devices, First information representing the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content in a corresponding manner, Second information representing a container and a device operated by the container in a corresponding manner, Third information representing a computer resource and a device connected to the computer resource in a corresponding manner, A storage unit for storing, An information processing unit, and The information processing unit A reception process for receiving the processing content in the processing system, Based on the first information, the second information, and the third information, a selection process for selecting one or more containers for executing the processing content received in the reception process and a computer resource for distributing each of the one or more containers, A distribution device that executes.

[0098] According to the above configuration, based on the first information representing the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content in a corresponding manner, the second information representing a container and a device operated by the container in a corresponding manner, and the third information representing a computer resource and a device connected to the computer resource in a corresponding manner, one or more containers for executing the processing content received in the reception process and a computer resource for distributing each of the one or more containers can be selected.

[0099] (Appendix 2) The third information represents a computer resource, a device connected to the computer resource, and a location where the computer resource is arranged in a corresponding manner, The one or more computer resources Are arranged at the site where the processing content is executed and are computer resources to which the devices arranged at the site are connected, Are arranged in the cloud and are computer resources that do not require device connection, and The items of the device in the second information or the third information are the type of the device connected to the computer resource, or the distribution device described in Supplementary Note 1 indicating that connection of the device to the computer resource is unnecessary.

[0100] According to the above configuration, it is possible to effectively utilize both the computer resources arranged at the site and the computer resources arranged in the cloud.

[0101] (Supplementary Note 3) The information processing unit In the reception process, receives the processing content in the processing system and the requirement conditions for the processing, In the selection process, selects the one or more containers for executing the processing content and the computer resources for distributing each of the one or more containers according to the requirement conditions received in the reception process, according to the distribution device described in Supplementary Note 1 or 2.

[0102] According to the above configuration, it is possible to select a container for executing the processing content and computer resources according to the requirement conditions.

[0103] (Supplementary Note 4) The requirement condition is a condition for the range of the number of devices of a predetermined type included in the processing system that executes the processing content received in the reception process, according to the distribution device described in Supplementary Note 3.

[0104] According to the above configuration, by restricting the range of the number of devices of a predetermined type included in the processing system, efficient processing becomes possible.

[0105] (Supplementary Note 5) The third information includes information on the performance or cost of the computer resource, The requirement condition is a requirement to make the processing system that executes the processing content received in the reception process as high-performance as possible or as low-cost as possible, according to the distribution device described in Supplementary Note 3 or 4.

[0106] According to the above configuration, it is possible to make the processing system as high-performance as possible or as low-cost as possible.

[0107] (Appendix 6) The information processing unit a determination process for determining whether or not the processing system having the one or more devices, the one or more containers, and the one or more computer resources selected in the selection process can execute the processing content under the request conditions received in the reception process; a distribution process for distributing the one or more containers to the one or more computer resources when it is determined in the determination process that the processing system can execute the processing content under the request conditions received in the reception process; The distribution device according to any one of Appendices 3 to 5, which executes the above.

[0108] According to the above configuration, it is possible to ensure that the processing system executes the processing content under the request conditions received in the reception process.

[0109] (Appendix 7) wherein the second information or the third information includes information on replacement parts of the device, The information processing unit The distribution device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 6, which issues an exchange instruction to replace the parts of the device based on the second information or the third information.

[0110] According to the above configuration, when it is necessary to replace the parts of the device, the distribution device can instruct the replacement of the parts of the device.

[0111] (Appendix 8) A distribution method for distributing one or more containers to a processing system having one or more devices for processing a target and one or more computer resources related to the control of the one or more devices, a reception process for receiving the processing content in the processing system; Based on the first information, the second information, and the third information, a selection process for selecting one or more containers for executing the processing content received in the reception process and computer resources for distributing each of the one or more containers, and including the first information represents a correspondence between the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content; the second information represents a correspondence between a container and a device operated by the container; the third information represents a correspondence between computer resources and a device connected to the computer resources, a distribution method.

[0112] According to the above method, based on the first information representing a correspondence between the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content, the second information representing a correspondence between a container and a device operated by the container, and the third information representing a correspondence between computer resources and a device connected to the computer resources, one or more containers for executing the processing content received in the reception process and computer resources for distributing each of the one or more containers can be selected.

[0113] (Appendix 9) A distribution program that causes a computer to function as a distribution device for distributing one or more containers to a processing system having one or more devices for processing a target and one or more computer resources related to the control of the one or more devices, wherein the computer stores the first information representing a correspondence between the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content, the second information representing a correspondence between a container and a device operated by the container, and the third information representing a correspondence between computer resources and a device connected to the computer resources, in a storage unit, and to the computer ​ An acceptance process that accepts the processing content in the processing system, and Based on the first information, the second information, and the third information, a selection process for selecting one or more containers for executing the processing content accepted in the acceptance process and computer resources for distributing each of the one or more containers, and A distribution program that causes the above to be executed.

[0114] [Supplementary Note 3] The present disclosure can also be expressed as follows in each of the following supplementary notes. However, the present disclosure is not limited to each of the following supplementary notes.

[0115] (Supplementary Note 1) A distribution device for distributing one or more containers to a processing system having one or more devices for processing a target and one or more computer resources related to the control of the one or more devices, wherein First information that correspondingly represents the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content, and Second information that correspondingly represents a container and a device operated by the container, and Third information that correspondingly represents computer resources and a device connected to the computer resources, and A storage unit that stores the above, and Comprising at least one processor, The at least one processor Performs an acceptance process that accepts the processing content in the processing system, and Based on the first information, the second information, and the third information, a selection process for selecting one or more containers for executing the processing content accepted in the acceptance process and computer resources for distributing each of the one or more containers, and A distribution device that performs the above.

[0116] (Supplementary Note 2) The third information represents a correspondence between the computer resources, devices connected to the computer resources, and the locations where the computer resources are arranged. The one or more computer resources are computer resources arranged at the site where the processing content is executed and to which devices arranged at the site are connected, and computer resources arranged in the cloud and not requiring device connection, and In the item of the device in the second information or the third information, the type of the device connected to the computer resources or the fact that device connection to the computer resources is unnecessary is represented. The distribution device according to Supplementary Note 1.

[0117] (Supplementary Note 3) The at least one processor receives, in the reception process, the processing content in the processing system and the requirement conditions for the processing, and in the selection process, selects, based on the requirement conditions received in the reception process, the one or more containers for executing the processing content and the computer resources for distributing each of the one or more containers. The distribution device according to Supplementary Note 1 or 2.

[0118] (Supplementary Note 4) The requirement conditions are conditions for the range of the number of devices of a predetermined type included in the processing system that executes the processing content received in the reception process. The distribution device according to Supplementary Note 3.

[0119] (Supplementary Note 5) The third information includes information on the performance or cost of the computer resources, and the requirement conditions are requirements for making the processing system that executes the processing content received in the reception process as high-performance as possible or as low-cost as possible. The distribution device according to Supplementary Note 3 or 4. (Supplementary Note 6) The at least one processor A determination process for determining whether or not the processing system having the one or more devices, the one or more containers, and the one or more computer resources selected in the selection process can execute the processing content under the request conditions received in the reception process, A distribution process for distributing the one or more containers to the one or more computer resources when, in the determination process, it is determined that the processing system can execute the processing content under the request conditions received in the reception process, The distribution device according to any one of Appendices 3 to 5, which executes the above.

[0120] According to the above configuration, it is possible to ensure that the processing system executes the processing content under the request conditions received in the reception process.

[0121] (Appendix 7) The second information or the third information includes information on replacement parts of the device, The at least one processor The distribution device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 6, which issues an exchange instruction to replace the parts of the device based on the second information or the third information.

[0122] Note that this distribution device may further include a memory, and a program for causing the processor to execute the reception process and the selection process may be stored in this memory. Further, this program may be recorded on a non-transitory tangible recording medium readable by a computer.

Explanation of Signs

[0123] 1 Distribution / Processing System 10 Distribution Device 11 Information Processing Unit 12 Storage Unit 13 Input Unit 14 Distribution Unit 20 Processing System 21 Computer Resources 22 Device I1 First Information I2 Second information I3 Third information

Claims

1. A delivery device for delivering one or more containers to a processing system having one or more devices for processing an object and one or more computer resources related to the control of the one or more devices, comprising: First information corresponding to represent the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content; Second information corresponding to represent a container and a device operated by the container; Third information corresponding to represent a computer resource and a device connected to the computer resource; A storage unit for storing; An information processing unit, and comprising: The information processing unit: A reception process for receiving the processing content in the processing system; Based on the first information, the second information, and the third information, a selection process for selecting one or more containers for executing the processing content received in the reception process and a computer resource for delivering each of the one or more containers; A delivery device that executes.

2. The third information corresponds to represent a computer resource, a device connected to the computer resource, and a location where the computer resource is arranged; The one or more computer resources: A computer resource arranged at the site where the processing content is executed and to which a device arranged at the site is connected; A computer resource arranged in the cloud and not requiring connection of a device; and including, The item of the device in the second information or the third information is the type of the device connected to the computer resource or represents that connection of the device to the computer resource is unnecessary. The delivery device according to claim 1.

3. The information processing unit: In the reception process, the processing content in the processing system and the requirement conditions for the processing are received. In the selection process, based on the requirement conditions received in the reception process, one or more containers for executing the processing content and computer resources for distributing each of the one or more containers are selected. The distribution device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The requirement condition is a condition for the range of the number of devices of a predetermined type included in the processing system that executes the processing content received in the reception process. The distribution device according to claim 3.

5. The third information includes information on the performance or cost of the computer resources. The requirement condition is a requirement to make the processing system that executes the processing content received in the reception process as high-performance as possible or as low-cost as possible. The distribution device according to claim 3.

6. The information processing unit A determination process for determining whether the processing system having the one or more devices, the one or more containers, and the one or more computer resources selected in the selection process can execute the processing content under the requirement conditions received in the reception process; In the determination process, when it is determined that the processing system can execute the processing content under the requirement conditions received in the reception process, a distribution process for distributing the one or more containers to the one or more computer resources; The distribution device according to claim 3, which executes.

7. The second information or the third information includes information on replacement parts of the device. The information processing unit Based on the second information or the third information, an exchange instruction for exchanging the parts of the device is issued. The distribution device according to claim 1.

8. A distribution method for distributing one or more containers to a processing system having one or more devices for processing an object and one or more computer resources related to the control of the one or more devices, comprising: a reception process for receiving the processing content in the processing system; a selection process for selecting one or more containers for executing the processing content received in the reception process and computer resources for distributing each of the one or more containers based on first information, second information, and third information; wherein the first information represents a correspondence between the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content; the second information represents a correspondence between a container and a device operated by the container; the third information represents a correspondence between a computer resource and a device connected to the computer resource.

9. A distribution program for causing a computer to function as a distribution device for distributing one or more containers to a processing system having one or more devices for processing an object and one or more computer resources related to the control of the one or more devices, wherein the computer comprises a storage unit for storing first information representing a correspondence between the processing content in the processing system and one or more containers for executing the processing content, second information representing a correspondence between a container and a device operated by the container, and third information representing a correspondence between a computer resource and a device connected to the computer resource, and the computer is caused to perform a reception process for receiving the processing content in the processing system, Based on the first information, the second information, and the third information, a selection process for selecting one or more containers for executing the processing content received in the reception process and computer resources for distributing each of the one or more containers, and A distribution program that causes the above to be executed.

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