Shrinking device

Abstract

To provide a setting support device that assists in setting processing parameters for a shrinking device.SOLUTION: A setting support device is a setting support device configured to perform a setting support process for a shrinking device 1 for attaching a shrink film 91 to an article 9 by heat-processing the shrink film in a heating chamber. The setting support process comprises receiving characteristic data concerning at least one of characteristics of the article and characteristics of the shrink film, and obtaining processing parameters by providing the characteristic data to a model configured to output processing parameters in a heating process when the characteristic data is provided.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a setting support device, a shrink system, a setting support method, and a computer program.

Background Art

[0002] For example, there is a shrink device that adheres a shrink film to a product as disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-81219 (hereinafter, Patent Document 1). A shrink film is a film having heat shrinkability formed of polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC, etc., and is heated in a state of being attached to a product and shrinks to adhere to the product. Thereby, packaging of the product and attachment of a label are performed easily and firmly.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

[0004] The shrink device is installed at the processing site, and the setting of processing parameters such as heating temperature and heating time is performed at the site where the installation is made. Therefore, depending on the operator at the installed site, it may be difficult to set the processing parameters. In addition, some of the shrink devices utilize an air flow as shown in Patent Document 1 above, and it may be difficult to set the processing parameters.

[0005] In this regard, in the case of a general device such as a clock, it is conceivable to bring it into a store or the like and request adjustment. However, since the shrink device is large, once it is installed at the processing site, it is not easy to move. In addition, it may not be easy to schedule a visit by a serviceman in terms of schedule adjustment and cost. Therefore, it is desired that the setting of the processing parameters of the shrink device be supported.

[0006] According to an embodiment, a setting support device is a setting support device configured to execute setting support processing for a shrink device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat-treating the shrink film. The setting support processing receives characteristic data related to at least one of the characteristics of the article and the characteristics of the shrink film, and provides the characteristic data to a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment, thereby obtaining the processing parameters.

[0007] According to an embodiment, a shrink system includes a shrink device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat-treating the shrink film, and a setting support device configured to execute setting support processing for the shrink device. The setting support processing receives characteristic data related to at least one of the characteristics of the article and the characteristics of the shrink film, and provides the characteristic data to a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment, thereby obtaining the processing parameters.

[0008] According to an embodiment, a setting support method is a setting support method for a shrink device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat-treating the shrink film. The method obtains characteristic data related to at least one of the characteristics of the article and the characteristics of the shrink film, and uses a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is provided, to obtain the processing parameters from the characteristic data.

[0009] According to an embodiment, a computer program is a computer program that causes a computer to perform processing for supporting the setting of a shrink device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat-treating the shrink film. The computer receives characteristic data related to at least one of the characteristics of the article and the characteristics of the shrink film, and uses a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is provided, to cause the computer to obtain the processing parameters from the characteristic data and output the processing parameters.

[0010] Further details will be described as embodiments below.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

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Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] <1. Overview of the Setting Support Device, Shrink System, and Setting Support Method>

[0013] (1) The setting support device included in this embodiment is a setting support device configured to execute setting support processing for a shrink device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat-treating the shrink film in a heating chamber. The setting support processing receives characteristic data related to at least one of the characteristics of the article and the characteristics of the shrink film, and provides the characteristic data to a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is given, thereby obtaining the processing parameters.

[0014] The processing parameters are parameters for use in the heat treatment. The characteristics of the article are characteristics related to the heat treatment. The characteristics of the shrink film are characteristics related to the heat treatment.

[0015] By obtaining the processing parameters by providing the characteristic data to the model, the user of the shrink device can set the processing parameters used in the heat treatment using the obtained processing parameters. Therefore, it is possible to suitably support the user of the shrink device in setting the processing parameters used in the heat treatment.

[0016] (2) Preferably, the shrink device includes a control unit that controls the heat treatment, and the setting support processing further includes providing the obtained processing parameters to the control unit as control parameters for the heat treatment. Thereby, the control unit can control the heat treatment using the control parameters obtained from the processing parameters obtained from the model. Therefore, it becomes easier for the user of the shrink device to set the processing parameters.

[0017] (3) Preferably, the shrink device includes a control unit that controls the heat treatment, and the setting support processing further includes providing, to the control unit, a corrected value obtained by correcting the processing parameters by the user as control parameters for the heat treatment. Thereby, the control unit can control the heat treatment using the control parameters obtained from the corrected value. Therefore, it becomes easier for the user of the shrink device to change the processing parameters obtained from the model.

[0018] (4) Preferably, the setting support process further includes presenting a plurality of options regarding the characteristic data to the user, and receiving the characteristic data includes receiving a user operation of selecting from among the plurality of options. This makes it easier to input the characteristic data.

[0019] (5) Preferably, the characteristics of the article include one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of the shape of the article, the material of the article, the dimensions of the article, the temperature of the article, and the ambient temperature of the article. As a result, the one or more characteristics are used as factors in the heat treatment. As a result, the finish of the heat treatment can be improved.

[0020] (6) Preferably, the characteristics of the shrink film include one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of the material of the shrink film, the dimensions of the shrink film, and the processing applied to the shrink film. As a result, the one or more characteristics are used as factors in the heat treatment. As a result, the finish of the heat treatment can be improved.

[0021] (7) Preferably, the processing parameters include one or more parameters selected from the group consisting of the temperature of the heat treatment, the air volume of the warm air for the heat treatment, the discharge position of the warm air in the heating chamber, the conveyance speed of the article on which the heat treatment is performed, the steam pressure, the amount of steam, the negative pressure in the negative pressure chamber that sucks the steam, and the discharge angle of the warm air. As a result, the heat treatment is controlled.

[0022] (8) Preferably, the model is a learning model that is machine - learned to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when given characteristic data. By using the learning model, the processing parameters can be easily obtained.

[0023] (9) Preferably, the characteristic data further includes the mechanical characteristics of the shrinking device, and the mechanical characteristics include one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of the heating method of the shrinking device, the dimensions of the heating chamber, and the orientation during the conveyance of the article to be heat-treated. Thereby, the processing parameters can be obtained in consideration of the mechanical characteristics as well. Therefore, the processing parameters can be obtained using the model even for shrinking devices with different mechanical characteristics, and the setting of the processing parameters is preferably supported.

[0024] (10) Preferably, the setting support process receives the processing result data of the heat treatment and generates adjustment information for the processing parameters based on the processing result data. The adjustment information is information used to adjust the processing parameters. By obtaining the adjustment information, the processing parameters can be adjusted. As a result, the finish of the heat treatment result can be improved.

[0025] (11) The shrinking system included in the present embodiment includes a shrinking device that attaches a shrinking film to an article by heat-treating the shrinking film, and a setting support device configured to execute setting support processing for the shrinking device. The setting support processing receives characteristic data regarding at least one of the characteristics of the article and the characteristics of the shrinking film, and obtains processing parameters by providing the characteristic data to a model configured to output the processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is provided. Using the processing parameters obtained from the model, the user of the shrinking device can set the processing parameters used in the heat treatment. Therefore, it is possible to preferably support the setting of the processing parameters used in the heat treatment by the user of the shrinking device.

[0026] (12) The setting support method included in this embodiment is a setting support method for a shrinkage device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat treatment. It acquires characteristic data regarding at least one of the characteristics of the article and the characteristics of the shrink film, and uses a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is given to acquire the processing parameters from the characteristic data. Using the processing parameters acquired from the model, the user of the shrinkage device can set the processing parameters used in the heat treatment. Therefore, it is possible to suitably support the setting of the processing parameters used in the heat treatment by the user of the shrinkage device.

[0027] (13) The computer program included in this embodiment is a computer program that causes a computer to perform processing for supporting the setting of a shrinkage device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat treatment. The computer receives characteristic data regarding at least one of the characteristics of the article and the characteristics of the shrink film, and uses a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is given to acquire the processing parameters from the characteristic data and output the processing parameters. Thereby, it is possible to cause the computer to support the setting of the processing parameters used in the heat treatment. As a result, it is possible to suitably support the computer to set the processing parameters used in the heat treatment by the user of the shrinkage device.

[0028] <2. Examples of the setting support device, shrinkage system, and setting support method>

[0029] Referring to FIG. 1, the shrinkage system 100 according to this embodiment includes a shrinkage device 1 and a management device 3.

[0030] The shrinkage device 1 is a device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat-treating the shrink film. Attaching the shrink film to the article means attaching the shrink film to at least a part of the outside of the article, and "attaching" refers to covering with the shrink film. Covering with the shrink film includes attaching the shrink film to the article, closely adhering the shrink film to the article, and the like. When the shrink film is used as a display label, it is also called a shrink label. In the following example, the shrink film is closely adhered to the article.

[0031] The shrink film is, for example, a film having heat shrinkability formed of polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC, or the like. The shrinkage device 1, for example, attaches a shrink film to an article and heat-treats the article with the shrink film attached thereto. Thereby, the shrinkage device 1 heat-shrinks the shrink film to closely adhere it to the product.

[0032] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 4, the shrinkage device 1 includes a mounting portion 15, one or more preheating portions (first heating chamber) 13, and a processing portion (second heating chamber) 14. The mounting portion 15, the preheating portion 13, and the processing portion 14 are arranged in this order along the conveyor 120 that conveys the article 9. Preferably, the preheating portion 13 and the processing portion 14 are arranged continuously. In FIG. 1, the shrinkage device 1 has two preheating portions 13, and they are arranged continuously.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 1, the conveyor 120 rotates by connecting at least one of the two rollers (pulleys) 121 and 122 to the motor M, so that the upper portion of the belt 123 moves from left to right in the figure as indicated by the arrow R. In the example of FIG. 1, the roller 121 is connected to the motor M and functions as a driving pulley. Thereby, the article 9 on the belt 123 is conveyed from left to right in this figure.

[0034] In the shrinkage device 1, a top belt may be arranged above the conveyor 120 in parallel with the conveyor 120, and a mechanism for gripping the article 9 on the belt 123 from above may move in synchronization with the conveying speed of the conveyor 120 by the top belt. Thereby, the posture of the article 9 on the belt 123 can be maintained and conveyed.

[0035] In the following description, the direction of arrow R is also referred to as the traveling direction. The front of the traveling direction, that is, the direction of arrow R (the right side of the figure) is the front (front side before traveling), and the reverse (the left side of the figure) is the rear (rear side after traveling). The sides of the article 9 conveyed in the conveying direction R are the left-right directions (right side during traveling and left side during traveling).

[0036] The mounting part 15 is a device for mounting the shrink film 91 on the article 9 at the specified position P. As an example, the mounting part 15 drops the shrink film 91 from directly above at the specified position P. Specifically, FIG. 1 shows an enlarged plan view of the article 9 at the specified position P.

[0037] Referring to the plan view, as an example, the shrink film 91 is an annular film and is folded in two and set in the mounting part 15. The mounting part 15 spreads the central part of the folded shrink film 91 so that the article 9 can enter inside, and drops it from directly above at the specified position P. Thereby, the shrink film 91 covers the outer periphery of the article 9 located at the specified position P.

[0038] Since the shrink film 91 is folded in two, two height-direction ribs 91A corresponding to the folding positions are generated. As a result, the gap between the shrink film 91 and the outer periphery of the article 9 is not uniform, and the gap is larger at the position of the rib 91A. Therefore, in the heat treatment, it may be necessary to consider the position of the rib 91A in order to closely adhere the shrink film 91 to the article 9 evenly.

[0039] The preheating part 13 and the processing part 14 are provided so as to cover the conveying path of the conveyor 120. In other words, the preheating part 13 and the processing part 14 are heating chambers, and the conveyor 120 carries the article 9 into the inside and carries the article 9 out from the inside.

[0040] The article 9 conveyed by the conveyor 120 is guided into the interior in the order of the preheating section 13 and the processing section 14. Both the preheating section 13 and the processing section 14 perform heat treatment on the article 9 with the shrink film 91 attached thereto that has been guided into the interior.

[0041] The heat treatment includes, as an example, spraying a high-temperature gas. The high-temperature gas may contain steam or may be a dry gas that does not contain steam. When the heat treatment uses a high-temperature gas containing steam, preferably, the shrinkage device 1 has a suction chamber (not shown). The suction chamber (vacuum) is maintained at a negative pressure and is provided adjacent to the heating chamber that performs the heat treatment with the high-temperature gas containing steam, and sucks the steam leaking from the heating chamber. Thereby, the above-mentioned leakage to the outside can be prevented.

[0042] The processing section 14 sprays a high-temperature gas onto the article 9. The preheating section 13 sprays a high-temperature gas at a temperature lower than the temperature of the high-temperature gas used in the processing section 14 onto the article 9. In other words, the preheating section 13 is a preheating chamber, and the processing section 14 is the main processing chamber that performs processing by heating.

[0043] Specifically, the article 9 loaded on the conveyor 120 and with the shrink film 91 attached by the mounting portion 15 is conveyed into the interior of the preheating section 13 and is preliminarily heated until it reaches the temperature immediately before the shrink film 91 starts to shrink during the conveyance inside. Then, the article 9 is conveyed outside the preheating section 13 by the conveyor 120.

[0044] The article 9 conveyed outside the preheating section 13 is continuously conveyed into the interior of the processing section 14. The article 9 is heat-processed at a high temperature at which the shrink film 91 shrinks during the conveyance inside the processing section 14. Thereby, the shrink film 91 adheres closely to the outer surface of the article 9. Then, the article 9 is conveyed outside the processing section 14 by the conveyor 120.

[0045] Referring to FIG. 2, inside the cover 21 of the preheating section 13, facing fans 22 are arranged on the left and right in the advancing direction with the conveyor 120 in between. The article 9 is conveyed by the conveyor 120 between the two facing fans 22.

[0046] A supply pipe 134 is connected to the upper part of the facing fan 22, and high-temperature gas heated by a heater (not shown) is blown by a blower 134A and supplied into the facing fan 22 through the supply pipe 134. An opening plate 221 having a plurality of openings 221A formed on the surface facing the conveyor 120 of the facing fan 22 is attached. The high-temperature gas supplied into the facing fan 22 is sent out from the openings of the opening plate 221 toward the article 9. Thus, the high-temperature gas is blown onto the article 9 from the left and right. The air volume of the high-temperature gas blown onto the article 9 is controlled, for example, by the rotation speed of the blower 134A.

[0047] The openings 221A are provided in a row parallel to the conveying direction R. Thus, during the period when the article 9 is being conveyed in the conveying direction R inside the preheating section 13, the high-temperature gas is continuously blown onto the article 9 from the left and right. The rows of the openings 221A are provided in a plurality of stages in the height direction. Thus, the high-temperature gas is blown onto the article 9 from the left and right at a plurality of positions in the height direction of the article 9.

[0048] The facing fan 22 is provided with a mechanism for controlling the discharge position of the high-temperature gas, that is, the position of the high-temperature gas blown onto the article 9. As an example, the mechanism for controlling the position of the high-temperature gas includes shutters 222 provided on the surface of each opening 221A facing the conveyor 120.

[0049] Specifically, referring to the enlarged view of the shutter 222 in FIG. 2, the shutter 222 covers a row of the openings 221A provided parallel to the conveying direction R, and an opening 222A is provided at a position corresponding to the opening 221A. A plurality of shutters 222 are provided in the height direction, and each shutter 222 covers a row of the openings 221A provided in a plurality of stages in the height direction. When the opening 222A overlaps the opening 221A, the discharge of the high-temperature gas from the opening 221A is permitted.

[0050] Each shutter 222 has an independent opening and closing mechanism. The opening and closing mechanism is, for example, an air cylinder 223 that reciprocates the shutter 222 in the conveying direction R. Air is supplied to and discharged from the air cylinder 223 through an air hose 223A. As a result, the internal pressure of the air cylinder 223 changes, and the plunger reciprocates. The shutter 222 connected to the plunger moves back and forth in conjunction with the reciprocating movement of the plunger.

[0051] When the shutter 222 is in the first state ST1 where the opening 222A overlaps the opening 221A, the high-temperature gas is discharged from the opening 221A. When the shutter 222 is in the second state ST2 where the opening 222A does not overlap the opening 221A, the high-temperature gas is not discharged from the opening 221A. Therefore, by controlling the position of the shutter 222, it is possible to control whether or not the high-temperature gas is discharged from the opening 221A.

[0052] Each shutter 222 has an independent opening and closing mechanism. As a result, it is possible to control whether or not the high-temperature gas is discharged for each shutter 222. In this example, since the shutters 222 are provided in parallel in the height direction, the position of the discharge of the high-temperature gas from the opening 221A can be individually controlled in the height direction.

[0053] Note that the shutter 222 may be divided into a plurality in the conveying direction. For example, the shutter 222 may be divided into the first half and the second half in the conveying direction of the preheating unit 13. In that case, since the first-half shutter 222 and the second-half shutter 222 each have an independent opening and closing mechanism, the position of the discharge of the high-temperature gas from the opening 221A can be further individually controlled in the conveying direction.

[0054] Referring to FIG. 3, two pipes 33 are connected to the processing unit 14. Each pipe 33 is separated into two paths so as to sandwich the conveyor 120, penetrates through the cover 31, and extends into the processing unit 14. Four nozzles 34 are arranged inside the heating unit 14 and are respectively connected to the separated tips of the two pipes 33. High-temperature gas heated by a heater (not shown) is blown by a blower 33A, supplied to the four nozzles 34 through the pipes 33, and sent out from the nozzles 34.

[0055] A predetermined position on the conveyor 120 is set as the heating position T. Assuming an imaginary axis (hereinafter referred to as the reference axis) 8 in the height direction at the heating position T, the four nozzles 34 are arranged at equal intervals (equally spaced in the circumferential direction of the reference axis 8) so as to surround the periphery of the reference axis 8. Thereby, when the article 9 carried in by the conveyor 120 is conveyed to the heating position T, high-temperature gas is blown from the four nozzles 34, and the shrink film 91 is efficiently heated.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 4, each nozzle 34 does not send out high-temperature gas toward the center of the article 9 located at the heating position T, but sends out high-temperature gas in a direction inclined by an angle θ in the same direction from the direction toward the center of the article 9, that is, the reference axis 8. Thereby, the airflows F1 of the high-temperature gas sent out from the four nozzles 34 interfere with each other and form a vortex. Therefore, the high-temperature gas flows along the surface of the shrink film 91 attached to the article 9. As a result, the entire surface of the shrink film 91 is uniformly and quickly heated, and the occurrence of wrinkles and uneven shrinkage is prevented.

[0057] Preferably, the processing unit 14 has a mechanism for making the discharge angle of the high-temperature gas variable. As an example, the mechanism for making the discharge angle variable has a mechanism for making the angle θ of each nozzle 34 variable. As an example, the mechanism for making the angle θ variable is a rotating part 34A such as a ball joint provided at the connection part of the nozzle 34 and the pipe 33. The rotating part 34A is connected to an air cylinder (not shown) or the like, thereby rotating the nozzle 34 to a predetermined angle. Thereby, the discharge angle of the high-temperature gas is controlled.

[0058] As another example, the mechanism for making the ejection angle variable may be a mechanism for individually controlling the ejection amount from each nozzle 34. The mechanism for individually controlling the ejection amount from each nozzle 34 may be a mechanism including an object that physically shields the ejection port from the nozzle 34 and making its position variable for each nozzle 34, similar to the shutter 222 of the preheating unit 13. Since each nozzle 34 sends out the high-temperature gas in a direction inclined by an angle θ in the same direction from the direction toward the reference axis 8, the angle of the high-temperature gas sprayed onto the heating position T can be made variable by varying the ejection amount. Thereby, the ejection angle of the high-temperature gas is controlled.

[0059] The shrinkage device 1 has a touch panel 17 as an example of an input / output device. The touch panel 17 is an example of an input device that receives user operations and is also an example of an output device that outputs information as a display. The touch panel 17 is attached to the outer surface of the preheating unit 13 or the processing unit 14 as an example and can receive operations of a user near the shrinkage device 1. Also, information can be provided to the user near the shrinkage device 1.

[0060] Further, the shrinkage system 100 may include an external device such as a user terminal 5 as an example of an input / output device. In this case, the user terminal 5 may perform at least a part of the display on the touch panel 17 and the reception of user operations. Thereby, operations of a user not near the shrinkage device 1 can be received. Also, information can be provided to a user not near the shrinkage device 1.

[0061] The shrinkage device 1 has a control unit 10 that controls the entire device. Referring to FIG. 5, the control unit 10 is configured as a computer having a processor 11 and a memory 18 as an example. The memory 18 may be a primary storage device or a secondary storage device.

[0062] The touch panel 17 is connected to the control unit 10 and inputs an operation signal indicating an operation input to the control unit 10. The control unit 10 controls the shrinkage device 1 according to the operation signal. Further, the control unit 10 controls the display of the touch panel 17.

[0063] The control unit 10 has a communication device 16 and can communicate with the management device 3 via a communication network 7 such as the Internet. Further, when the shrinkage system 100 includes the user terminal 5, the control unit 10 may be able to communicate with the user terminal 5 mutually.

[0064] The memory 18 of the control unit 10 stores a computer program executed by the processor 11. The processor 11 executes processing for assistance operations by executing the maintenance program 621.

[0065] The control unit 10 functions as at least a part of the setting support device. The setting support device is configured to execute setting support processing for supporting the setting of processing parameters in the shrinkage device 1. The setting of the processing parameters in the shrinkage device 1 refers to the setting of the processing parameters necessary for causing the preheating unit 13 and the processing unit 14 to execute heat treatment.

[0066] The processing parameters are parameters used for heat treatment, and are at least one of the temperature of the high-temperature gas, the air volume, the discharge position of the high-temperature gas in the preheating unit 13, the conveyance speed of the article 9, and the discharge angle of the high-temperature gas in the processing unit 14 for each of the preheating unit 13 and the processing unit 14. Thereby, the heat treatment is controlled.

[0067] In order to cause the processor 11 to execute the setting support processing, the computer program stored in the memory 18 includes the support program 181. Further, in order to cause the control unit 10 to control the shrinkage device 1, the computer program stored in the memory 18 includes the processing control program 182.

[0068] Memory 18 further stores a parameter setting model 183. The parameter setting model 183 is used in a setting support process realized by the processor 11 executing the support program 181. Details will be described later.

[0069] Memory 18 preferably stores a parameter correction model 184. The parameter correction model 184 may be used in a setting support process realized by the processor 11 executing the support program 181. Details will be described later.

[0070] Memory 18 includes a characteristic data storage unit 187. The characteristic data storage unit 187 is a storage area for storing characteristic data described later. Memory 18 includes a set value storage unit 185. The set value storage unit 185 is a storage area for storing processing parameters used as control parameters in the heat treatment of the shrinkage device 1. Further, memory 18 includes a device information storage unit 186. The device information storage unit 186 is a storage area for storing the mechanical characteristics of the shrinkage device 1.

[0071] The mechanical characteristics of the shrinkage device 1 refer to characteristics related to the heat treatment. For example, it includes at least one of the heating method of the shrinkage device 1, the dimensions of the preheating unit 13 and the processing unit 14, and the direction during the conveyance of the article 9 on which the heat treatment is performed. The heating method of the shrinkage device 1 is, for example, whether the high-temperature gas is a dry gas or a gas containing steam.

[0072] The dimensions of the preheating unit 13 and the processing unit 14 include the length in the front-rear direction, the height inside the room, the width, etc. of the preheating unit 13 and the processing unit 14. The direction during the conveyance of the article 9 is, for example, whether the stripe 91A of the shrink film 91 is oriented in the front-rear direction, the left-right direction, or randomly during the conveyance of the article 9. This is because these pieces of information also affect the setting of the processing parameters.

[0073] The processor 11 realizes the setting support process 111 by executing the support program 181. The setting support process 111 refers to a process for assisting the user of the shrink device 1 in setting the processing parameters necessary for heating the shrink film 91 and attaching it to the article 9 to the shrink device 1.

[0074] Specifically, the setting support process 111 includes receiving characteristic data regarding at least one of the characteristics of the article 9 and the characteristics of the shrink film 91. The characteristics of the article 9 are characteristics related to the heat treatment of the article 9 and include at least one of the shape of the article 9, the material of the article 9, the dimensions of the article 9, the temperature of the article 9, and the ambient temperature of the article 9. The dimensions of the article 9 refer to the size of the article 9 and specifically include height, width, etc. By using these as factors in the heat treatment, the finish of the heat treatment can be improved.

[0075] The characteristics of the shrink film 91 are characteristics related to the heat treatment of the shrink film 91 and include at least one of the material of the shrink film 91, the dimensions of the shrink film 91, and the processing applied to the shrink film 91. The dimensions of the shrink film 91 include the width, length, thickness, etc. of the shrink film 91. The processing applied to the shrink film 91 includes printing, overcoat processing, inner coat processing, presence or absence of matte processing on the outer surface, range of perforation processing, etc. By using these as factors in the heat treatment, the finish of the heat treatment can be improved.

[0076] Preferably, the setting support process 111 includes presenting a plurality of options regarding the characteristic data to the user. In this case, receiving the characteristic data includes receiving a user operation of selecting from among the presented plurality of options. This facilitates the input of the characteristic data.

[0077] The setting support process 111 includes obtaining processing parameters by applying the given characteristic data to the parameter setting model 183. The parameter setting model 183 is a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when characteristic data is given. The parameter setting model 183 is, for example, a learning model that is machine-learned to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when characteristic data is given. In this case, obtaining the processing parameters includes inputting the given characteristic data into the parameter setting model 183 and acquiring the processing parameters output from the parameter setting model 183. By using the learning model, the processing parameters can be easily obtained.

[0078] As another example, the parameter setting model 183 may be configured as a table in which characteristic data and processing parameters are associated. In this case, obtaining the processing parameters includes reading out the processing parameters corresponding to the given characteristic data.

[0079] As another example, the parameter setting model 183 may be an arithmetic expression that calculates processing parameters by substituting characteristic data. In this case, obtaining the processing parameters includes calculating the processing parameters by substituting the given characteristic data into the parameter setting model 183.

[0080] As an example, the parameter setting model 183 may be prepared in advance according to the mechanical characteristics of the shrinkage device 1. In this case, the processing parameters can be obtained by applying the parameter setting model 183 to the specific data. As another example, the parameter setting model 183 may be common to different mechanical characteristics. In this case, the parameter setting model 183 is machine-learned to take the mechanical characteristics and characteristic data of the shrinkage device 1 as input data and output the processing parameters in the heat treatment. In the latter case, obtaining the processing parameters includes inputting the given characteristic data and the mechanical characteristics of the shrinkage device 1 into the parameter setting model 183 and acquiring the processing parameters output from the parameter setting model 183.

[0081] Preferably, the setting support process 111 includes receiving symptom data representing the finish by heat treatment. The finish by heat treatment includes at least one of wrinkles, dents, air pockets, deformation of the article 9, breakage or elongation, folding of the shrink film 91, entrainment of the shrink film 91 to the bottom surface of the article 9, color unevenness, distortion, lifting, breakage of the stitch, whitening, insufficient shrinkage, displacement, and display defect. Thereby, when these symptoms occur, adjustment information for appropriately dealing with them can be obtained.

[0082] The setting support process 111 includes obtaining adjustment information for adjusting the processing parameters by applying the given symptom data to the parameter correction model 184. The adjustment information may be, for example, an adjustment value of the processing parameters. As another example, it may be an adjustment ratio of the processing parameters.

[0083] The parameter correction model 184 is a model configured to output adjustment information when symptom data is given. The parameter correction model 184 is, for example, a learning model that has been machine-learned to output adjustment information when symptom data is given. In this case, obtaining the adjustment information includes inputting the given symptom data to the parameter correction model 184 and acquiring the adjustment information output from the parameter correction model 184.

[0084] As another example, the parameter correction model 184 may be configured as a table in which symptom data and adjustment information are associated. In this case, obtaining the adjustment information includes reading out the adjustment information corresponding to the given symptom data.

[0085] As another example, the parameter correction model 184 may be an arithmetic expression that calculates adjustment information by substituting symptom data. In this case, obtaining the adjustment information includes calculating the adjustment information by substituting the given symptom data into the parameter correction model 184.

[0086] As an example, the parameter correction model 184 may be prepared in advance according to the mechanical characteristics of the shrinkage device 1. In this case, adjustment information can be obtained by applying the parameter correction model 184 to the symptom data. As another example, the parameter correction model 184 may be common to different mechanical characteristics. In this case, the parameter correction model 184 takes the mechanical characteristics of the shrinkage device 1 and the symptom data as input data and is machine-learned to output adjustment information. In the latter case, obtaining the adjustment information includes inputting the given symptom data and the mechanical characteristics of the shrinkage device 1 into the parameter correction model 184 and acquiring the adjustment information output from the parameter correction model 184.

[0087] Preferably, the setting support process 111 includes presenting the acquired processing parameters to the user and determining to use them as control parameters for the heat treatment according to the user operation. Also preferably, the setting support process 111 includes presenting the acquired processing parameters to the user, modifying them according to the user operation, and obtaining a modified value. As a result, the user can set the presented processing parameters or change them to desired processing parameters. As a result, the setting of the processing parameters by the user is preferably supported.

[0088] The processor 11 realizes the setting process 112 by executing the support program 181. The setting process 112 includes providing the determined processing parameters as control parameters for the heat treatment to a control unit that controls the heat treatment. The control parameter is a control signal obtained based on the processing parameter. For example, when the temperature of the high-temperature gas is set as the processing parameter, it refers to a signal that instructs the on / off and voltage value of a heater (not shown).

[0089] Also, the setting process 112 includes providing the modified value obtained by the user's modification of the processing parameter as a control parameter for the heat treatment to a control unit that controls the heat treatment. The control unit that controls the heat treatment refers to a function realized by the processor 11 executing the processing control program 182.

[0090] The processor 11 realizes the processing control process 113 by executing the processing control program 182. The processing control process 113 includes controlling each part of the shrinkage device 1 and causing the shrinkage device 1 to perform an operation of heat-treating the shrink film 91 and attaching it to the article 9. In the processing control process 113, when control parameters are given by the setting support process 111, those control parameters are used.

[0091] Preferably, the processing control process 113 includes storing the processing parameters set during the heat treatment in the setting value storage unit 185 in association with the characteristic data at the time of setting. Thereby, it can be used in the update process 114 described later.

[0092] Preferably, the processor 11 executes the update process 114 by executing the support program 181. The update process 114 includes updating the parameter setting model 183 and the parameter correction model 184. For example, when the model is a learning model, the update process 114 includes re-learning the model using the processing parameters stored in the setting value storage unit 185 and the characteristic data at the time of setting. Thereby, the accuracy of setting support can be improved.

[0093] The setting support device may be configured to include the management device 3. As an example, the management device 3 may be communicable with one or more shrinkage devices 1 and may be configured to re-learn and update the parameter setting model 183 and the parameter correction model 184 of the shrinkage device 1.

[0094] In this case, the update process 114 includes passing the processing parameters stored in the setting value storage unit 185 and the characteristic data at the time of setting to the communication device 16 as update data, and causing the management device 3 to transmit it at a predetermined timing. Further, the update process 114 further includes receiving the model re-learned from the management device 3 and updating the model stored in the memory 18. Thereby, the control unit 10 can perform model re-learning on the management device 3 side without mounting a re-learning function.

[0095] When the management device 3 communicates with a plurality of shrink devices 1 and receives update data from each shrink device 1, the management device 3 can perform model re-learning using the update data from the plurality of shrink devices 1. Therefore, since re-learning is performed using more update data than using update data from one shrink device 1, more advanced re-learning can be performed.

[0096] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the setting support method according to the present embodiment. FIGS. 7 to 13 are specific examples of the display screens output in an example of the setting support method of FIG. 6. These display screens are displayed on the touch panel 17 of the shrink device 1, for example, and user operations are received on the touch panel 17 according to the display screens.

[0097] As another example, the display screens of FIGS. 7 to 13 are displayed on a touch panel (not shown) of the user terminal 5, and user operations are received on the user terminal 5 according to the display screens. In this case, the display of the display screen and the input of an operation signal indicating a user operation on the user terminal 5 are performed via communication between the control unit 10 and the user terminal 5.

[0098] The process of FIG. 6 starts with the processor 11 at a specific timing such as when the power is turned on, as an example. At this time, the processor 11 causes the menu screen 40 of FIG. 7 to be displayed on the touch panel 17 of the shrink device 1. The menu screen 40 is also used for the setting support process. Specifically, referring to FIG. 7, the menu screen 40 includes buttons 41 to 48.

[0099] Button 41 is a button for switching to the automatic driving screen. The automatic driving screen is a screen for performing operation inputs and information displays for the heat treatment to be automatically performed using the set processing parameters. The operations include, for example, starting and ending the process, setting the number of articles 9 to be processed, etc. The information display may be, for example, the display of the number of processed articles 9 and the number of unprocessed articles 9.

[0100] Button 42 is a button for switching to the manual driving screen. The manual driving screen is a screen for performing operation inputs and information displays for the heat treatment to be manually performed using the set processing parameters. The heat treatment performed manually refers to the heat treatment performed as a test of processing parameters, etc., and refers to the heat treatment performed on a smaller number of articles 9 than the heat treatment performed automatically.

[0101] Button 43 is a button for switching to the pattern setting screen. The pattern setting screen is a screen for accepting an operation input for reading and setting the characteristic data stored in a patterned manner. By setting using this screen, for example, it becomes easy to set the characteristic data when performing heat treatment on the same article 9 using the same shrink film 91.

[0102] Button 47 is a button for switching to the current value temporary setting screen. The current value temporary setting screen is a screen for accepting an operation input for temporarily setting the currently set processing parameters as the processing parameters for the subsequent heat treatment. By setting using this screen, it becomes easy for the user to set the processing parameters without relying on the setting support process.

[0103] Button 44 is a button for switching to the function setting screen. The function setting screen is a screen for performing operation input and information display for function setting of the shrinkage device 1. Button 45 is a button for switching to the factor input screen. The factor input screen is a screen for receiving an input operation of characteristic data. Button 46 is a button for switching to the symptom input screen. The symptom input screen is a screen for receiving an input operation of symptom data. Button 48 is a button for switching to the recommended value screen. The recommended value screen is a screen for presenting the processing parameters obtained from the parameter setting model 183. Details will be described later.

[0104] Referring to FIG. 6, the processor 11 reads the mechanical characteristic data of the shrinkage device 1 from the device information storage unit 186 of the memory 18 (step S101). The mechanical characteristic data is input, for example, using the mechanical setting screen 50 of FIG. 8. When the processor 11 receives the input of the mechanical characteristic data using the mechanical setting screen 50, it stores the data in the device information storage unit 186.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 8, the mechanical setting screen 50 includes an input unit 51 for inputting data unique to the shrinkage device 1. The input unit 51 receives inputs such as, for example, the identification number of the shrinkage device 1, the model of the shrinkage device 1, the size of the shrinkage device 1, and the type of the shrinkage device 1. The mechanical setting screen 50 includes an input unit 52 for inputting the dimensions of the preheating unit 13 and the processing unit 14. The dimensions of the preheating unit 13 and the processing unit 14 are, for example, the width and height of the preheating unit 13 and the processing unit 14. The mechanical setting screen 50 includes an input unit 53 for inputting data related to the conveyance of the shrinkage device 1. The data related to conveyance is, for example, the gear ratio of the motor M, the diameter of the roller 121 that is connected to the motor M and functions as a driving pulley, the conveyance direction, and the like.

[0106] The mechanical characteristic data may include initial values of the processing parameters. In this case, the machine setting screen 50 includes an input unit 54 for inputting the temperatures of the preheating unit 13 and the processing unit 14, an input unit 55 for inputting the frequencies of rotation of the air blowing units 22 and the blower 33A corresponding to the air volume, an input unit 56 for inputting data indicating the conveyance speed such as the speed of the conveyor 120 and the speed of a top belt (not shown), an input unit 57 for inputting the pressure of a suction chamber (not shown), and an input unit 58 for inputting data indicating the opening and closing of each of the shutters 222 provided in plurality in the height direction in parallel in the preheating unit 13 and divided into the first half and the second half in the advancing direction.

[0107] As an example, the input units 51 to 57 may be configured to accept numerical input. Thereby, any numerical value can be input. The input unit 58 may be such that either the open or closed state of the shutter 222 can be selected by touch. As an example, the open state of the shutter 222 may be specified by an odd number of touches, and the closed state of the shutter 222 may be specified by an even number of touches. Thereby, the opening and closing states can be easily input.

[0108] The mechanical characteristic data may be input at the time of shipment of the shrinkage device 1 and stored in the device information storage unit 186. Alternatively, input and change may be possible only for specific users such as administrators and service technicians. In that case, the processor 11 may be configured to display the machine setting screen 50 only by a predetermined operation.

[0109] Next, the processor 11 accepts input of the characteristic data (step S103). Step S103 is performed when the button 45 is operated on the menu screen 40. At this time, the processor 11 displays the factor input screen 60 of FIG. 9 on the touch panel 17.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 9, the factor input screen 60 includes, as characteristic data of the article 9, an input unit 61 for inputting the range in which the shrink film 91 is shrunk and attached, an input unit 62 for inputting the shape of the article 9 (for example, a container), an input unit 63 for inputting the material of the article 9, an input unit 64 for inputting the dimensions of the article 9, and an input unit 65 for inputting the temperature of the article 9 or the ambient temperature of the article 9. The dimensions of the article 9 include, for example, the height and width of the article 9.

[0111] As an example, the input units 64 and 65 may be configured to accept numerical input. This allows any numerical value to be input. As an example, the input units 61, 62, and 63 may be configured to present a plurality of options to the user and accept a user operation of selecting one of them. As a specific example, when the input units 62 and 63 are selected and enter the input state, the options 601 and 602 shown in FIG. 10 are presented respectively.

[0112] Specifically, referring to FIG. 10, the option 601 is an option for selecting the shape of the article 9, and presents a plurality of shapes of typical articles to be heat-processed in the shrinkage device 1 in a selectable manner. When one selection is accepted from among these, the processor 11 uses it as the input to the input unit 62. The option 602 is an option for selecting the material of the article 9, and presents a plurality of materials of typical articles to be heat-processed in the shrinkage device 1 in a selectable manner. When one selection is accepted from among these, the processor 11 uses it as the input to the input unit 63. By presenting options in this way, it becomes easier for the user to input characteristic data, and the setting support process for the processor 11 also becomes easier.

[0113] The factor input screen 60 includes, as characteristic data of the shrink film 91, an input unit 71 for inputting the material of the shrink film 91, an input unit 72 for inputting the dimensions of the shrink film 91, and an input unit 73 for inputting information regarding the processing applied to the shrink film 91. The dimensions of the shrink film 91 include, for example, the width, length, and thickness of the shrink film 91.

[0114] The input unit 72 may, for example, receive numerical input. The input unit 71 may, for example, present a plurality of options to the user and receive a user operation of selecting from among them, similar to FIG. 10.

[0115] Preferably, the characteristic data further includes data indicating settings for the heat treatment. The data indicating settings for the heat treatment includes, for example, the speed of the heat treatment (processing capacity) and the direction (flow direction) of the shrink film 91 during conveyance. In this case, the factor input screen 60 further includes an input unit 74 for inputting the processing capacity and an input unit 75 for inputting the flow direction.

[0116] The factor input screen 60 further includes a button 66 for instructing a transition to the menu screen 40. The processor 11 switches to the menu screen 40 by receiving an operation of the button 66 and ends step S105 assuming that the input on the factor input screen 60 is completed.

[0117] Preferably, the factor input screen 60 includes a button 68 for instructing registration of the characteristic data input on the factor input screen 60 to the memory 18 and an input unit 67 for inputting identification information at the time of registration. The processor 11 stores the characteristic data input on the factor input screen 60 in the characteristic data storage unit 187 in association with the identification information received by the input unit 67 by receiving an operation of the button 68. Thereby, it becomes possible to easily input the characteristic data only by receiving a designation of an option from among the characteristic data registered in the characteristic data storage unit 187 using the pattern setting screen.

[0118] Note that the input of characteristic data may be performed by selecting a pattern from a pattern setting screen (not shown) instead of inputting individual values on the factor input screen 60. In this case, when the button 43 is operated on the menu screen 40, the processor 11 executes step S103. The process of step S103 at this time includes reading out the characteristic data stored in association with the pattern selected on the pattern setting screen (not shown) from the characteristic data storage unit 187. Thereby, the characteristic data can be easily input.

[0119] Note that when the button 45 is operated on the menu screen 40 after a pattern is selected on the pattern setting screen, the processor 11 displays, on the touch panel 17, the factor input screen 60 in a state where the characteristic data stored in association with the selected pattern is input to each part. When a user operation is received on the factor input screen 60, the characteristic data is changed according to the user operation. Thereby, the characteristic data can be read using the pattern and flexibly changed.

[0120] Next, the processor 11 inputs the characteristic data input in step S103 to the parameter setting model 183 in order to acquire processing parameters (step S105). When the parameter setting model 183 is common to different machine characteristics, in step S105, the processor 11 also inputs the machine characteristics read in step S101 to the parameter setting model 183.

[0121] The processor 11 acquires the processing parameters by receiving the output from the parameter setting model 183 (step S107). Steps S105 and S107 are performed when the button 48 is operated on the menu screen 40.

[0122] The processor 11 displays the recommended value screen 80 of FIG. 11 on the touch panel 17. The processor 11 generates the display data of the recommended value screen 80 input with the processing parameters obtained by the output from the parameter setting model 183 and displays it on the touch panel 17.

[0123] When the recommended value screen 80 is displayed, the processing parameters for performing the heat treatment to closely adhere the shrink film 91 to the article 9 using the shrink device 1 can be obtained by inputting at least one characteristic data of the article 9 or the shrink film 91. Therefore, the setting of the processing parameters is preferably supported. As a result, even a user who is not accustomed to setting the processing parameters can obtain suitable processing parameters.

[0124] Preferably, the recommended value screen 80 is a screen capable of receiving a user operation for instructing the correction of the presented processing parameters. Specifically, the processor 11 deletes or changes the processing parameters displayed in each input section of the recommended value screen 80 according to the user operation. Thereby, the user of the shrink device 1 can arbitrarily change the presented processing parameters. Therefore, the usability of the shrink device 1 is improved.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 11, the recommended value screen 80 presents the temperatures of the preheating section 13 and the processing section 14, and an input section 81 for inputting the correction thereof; presents the frequencies of rotation of the air blowing sections 22 and the air blowers 33A corresponding to the air volumes of the preheating section 13 and the processing section 14, and an input section 82 for inputting the correction thereof; presents the conveyance speed such as the speed of the conveyor 120 and the speed of the top belt, and an input section 83 for inputting the correction thereof; presents the negative pressure of the suction mechanism of the steam prepared when the high-temperature gas is a gas containing steam, and an input section 84 for inputting the correction thereof; presents data indicating the opening and closing of each of the shutters 222, and an input section 84 for inputting the correction thereof. Preferably, it further includes an input section 86 for presenting the flow direction and inputting the correction thereof. Further, as another example, the recommended value screen 80 may further include an input section for presenting the discharge angle of the high-temperature gas and inputting the correction thereof.

[0126] The input units 81 to 84 may be, as an example, input units that accept numerical input. Thereby, the displayed numerical value can be changed to an arbitrary numerical value. The input unit 86 may be one that presents a plurality of options to the user and accepts a user operation of selecting one of them, similar to FIG. 10. The input unit 85 may be one that allows either the open or closed state of the shutter 222 to be selected by touch, similar to the input unit 58. Thereby, the displayed open / closed state can be easily changed.

[0127] The recommended value screen 80 further includes a button 87 that instructs a transition to the menu screen 40. The processor 11 ends step S109 by receiving an operation of the button 87 and switches to the menu screen 40.

[0128] When the button 87 is operated after the corrected value of the processing parameter presented on the recommended value screen 80 is input, that is, when the processing parameter presented on the recommended value screen 80 is corrected without being determined (NO in step S111), the processor 11 changes the processing parameter according to the user operation received on the recommended value screen 80 to obtain a corrected value (step S113). When the button 87 is operated without a user operation being performed to change the processing parameter presented on the recommended value screen 80, that is, when the processing parameter presented on the recommended value screen 80 is determined (YES in step S111), the processor 11 skips step S113. The processor 11 sets the determined processing parameter or the corrected value as the processing parameter for the heat treatment (step S115).

[0129] Thereafter, when the button 42 is operated on the menu screen 40, the processor 11 executes a heat treatment at the timing set on the manual operation screen as a test of the processing parameter and the like (step S117). In step S117, the processor 11 obtains the set processing parameter as a control parameter and controls each unit to execute a heat treatment at the timing set on the manual operation screen.

[0130] Next, the processor 11 receives the input of symptom data as necessary (YES in step S119). The input of symptom data is performed when the button 46 is operated on the menu screen 40. At this time, the processor 11 displays the symptom input screen 90 of FIG. 12 on the touch panel 17.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 12, the symptom input screen 90 includes buttons 94 for indicating the presence or absence of each of a plurality of defective phenomena that can occur during the heat treatment, such as wrinkles, abrasions, air pockets, deformation of the article 9, breakage or elongation, folding of the shrink film 91, entrainment of the shrink film 91 under the bottom surface of the article 9, color unevenness, distortion, lifting, breakage of the perforations, whitening, insufficient shrinkage, displacement, and display defects, etc., and buttons 92 for inputting the occurrence position.

[0132] As an example, the button 94 may be one in which the presence or absence of a defect can be selected by touch. As an example, the presence of a defect may be specified by an odd number of touches, and the absence of a defect may be specified by an even number of touches. Thereby, the presence or absence of a defect can be input.

[0133] The button 92 may also be one in which the position of the defect can be selected by touch in the same manner as the button 94. Preferably, the selection of the position of the defect may be, for example, to present a plurality of options to the user and accept a user operation of selecting from among them. As a specific example, when the button 94 is operated and the presence of a defect is specified, the options 901 shown in FIG. 13 are presented for the phenomenon in which the presence of a defect is specified.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 13, the option 901 presents a plurality of preset positions where a defect may occur so that they can be selected for the defective phenomenon for which the presence has been specified. As an example, it may be an enlarged version of the button 92 in FIG. 12. Although the touch panel 17 installed in the shrink device 1 and the display mounted on the user terminal are small, the operation becomes easier by displaying the enlarged option 901 as shown in FIG. 13.

[0135] The symptom input screen 90 further includes a button 93 for instructing a transition to the menu screen 40. The processor 11 switches to the menu screen 40 by receiving an operation of the button 93. Further, when receiving the operation of the button 93, the processor 11 proceeds to step S121 on the assumption that the input on the symptom input screen 90 has been completed.

[0136] Next, when receiving the input of the symptom data, the processor 11 inputs the symptom data input on the symptom input screen 90 to the parameter correction model 184 in order to acquire adjustment information (step S121). When the parameter correction model 184 is common to different machine characteristics, in step S121, the processor 11 also inputs the machine characteristics read in step S101 to the parameter correction model 184. The processor 11 can acquire the adjustment information by receiving the output from the parameter correction model 184.

[0137] As an example, the processor 11 may correct the processing parameters using the acquired adjustment information and present the corrected values to the user. That is, the processing from step S109 may be repeated. Thereby, each time the symptom data is input, the processing parameters are corrected using the input symptom data. Thereby, even when a defect occurs in the finish of the heat treatment using the set processing parameters, it becomes easy to adjust the processing parameters for eliminating the defect.

[0138] After the processing parameters are set as the processing parameters to be used for the heat treatment in step S115, when another operation is performed without operating the button 46 on the menu screen 40, that is, when the symptom data is not input (NO in step S119), the processor 11 associates the set processing parameters with the characteristic data and stores them in the set value storage unit 185 (step S123), and then ends the setting support process.

[0139] Since the set processing parameters are stored in the setting value storage unit 185, the processor 11 can execute the update process 114 at a predetermined timing using the update data. As a result, the parameter setting model 183 and the parameter correction model 184 are relearned, and more suitable processing parameters can be obtained by the setting support process. Also, more suitable adjustment information can be obtained.

[0140] In addition, when the setting support device includes the management device 3, the processor 11 performs a process of transmitting the update data to the management device 3 at a predetermined timing and receiving the relearned model from the management device 3. The predetermined timing is, for example, a specified time or a specified time interval. In this case, since the management device 3 can perform the relearning of the model using the update data from the plurality of shrink devices 1, a higher level of relearning can be performed. As a result, the parameter setting model 183 and the parameter correction model 184 are relearned at a higher level.

[0141] In addition, the setting support device may further include a computer mounted on a device other than the shrink device 1. The computer mounted on a device other than the shrink device 1 may be, for example, a computer mounted on the user terminal 5. In this case, the processor of the user terminal 5 communicates with the communication device 16 of the shrink device 1 to execute at least a part of the process for realizing the setting support method shown in FIG. 6.

[0142] As an example, the user terminal 5 transmits the processing parameters obtained by the above process to the shrink device 1 by communicating with the communication device 16. As another example, the user terminal 5 may present the processing parameters obtained by the above process on a display, receive a selection of the processing parameters from the user, and transmit a control signal for setting the selected processing parameters to the shrink device 1. Thereby, the user can obtain support for setting the processing parameters even by using a device other than the shrink device 1 such as the user terminal 5.

[0143] <3. Supplementary Note> The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0144] 1: Shrinking device 3: Management device 5: User terminal 7: Communication network 8: Reference axis 9: Article 10: Control unit 11: Processor 13: Preheating unit 14: Processing unit 15: Mounting unit 16: Communication device 17: Touch panel 18: Memory 21: Cover 22: Air blowing unit 31: Cover 33: Pipe 33A: Blower 34: Nozzle 34A: Rotating unit 40: Menu screen 41: Button 42: Button 43: Button 44: Button 45: Button 46: Button 47: Button 48: Button 50: Machine setting screen 51: Input unit 52: Input unit 53: Input unit 54: Input unit 55: Input unit 56: Input unit 57: Input unit 58: Input unit 60: Factor input screen 61: Input unit 62: Input unit 63: Input section 64: Input section 65: Input section 66: Button 67: Input section 68: Button 71: Input section 72: Input section 73: Input section 74: Input section 75: Input section 80: Recommended value screen 81: Input section 82: Input section 83: Input section 84: Input section 85: Input section 86: Input section 87: Button 90: Symptom input screen 91: Shrink film 91A: Muscle 92: Button 93: Button 94: Button 100: Shrink system 111: Setting support process 112: Setting process 113: Processing control process 114: Update process 120: Conveyor 121: Roller 123: Belt 134: Supply pipe 134A: Blower 181: Support program 182: Processing control program 183: Parameter setting model 184: Parameter modification model 185: Set value storage section 186: Device information storage section 187: Characteristic data storage section 221: Opening plate 221A: Opening 222: Shutter 222A: Opening 223: Air cylinder 223A: Air hose 601: Option 602: Option 621: Maintenance program 901: Option F1: Airflow M: Motor P: Specified position R: Conveying direction T: Heating position θ: Angle

Claims

1. A setting support device configured to execute setting support processing for a shrinkage device that attaches a shrink film to an article by performing heat treatment on the shrink film in a heating chamber, wherein the setting support processing receives characteristic data regarding at least one of the characteristics of the article and the characteristics of the shrink film, and obtains the processing parameters by providing the characteristic data to a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is provided. The setting support device is provided with the above.

2. The shrinkage device includes a control unit that controls the heat treatment, and the setting support processing further includes providing the obtained processing parameters to the control unit as control parameters for the heat treatment. The setting support device according to Claim 1.

3. The shrinkage device includes a control unit that controls the heat treatment, and the setting support processing further includes providing, to the control unit, a corrected value obtained by correcting the processing parameters by a user as control parameters for the heat treatment. The setting support device according to Claim 1.

4. The setting support processing further includes presenting a plurality of options regarding the characteristic data to the user, and receiving the characteristic data includes receiving a user operation of selecting from among the plurality of options. The setting support device according to any one of Claims 1 to 3.

5. The characteristics of the article include one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of the shape of the article, the material of the article, the dimensions of the article, the temperature of the article, and the ambient temperature of the article. The setting support device according to any one of Claims 1 to 4.

6. The characteristics of the shrink film include one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of the material of the shrink film, the dimensions of the shrink film, and the processing applied to the shrink film. The setting support device according to any one of Claims 1 to 5.

7. The processing parameters include one or more parameters selected from the group consisting of the temperature of the heat treatment, the air volume of the warm air for the heat treatment, the discharge position of the warm air in the heating chamber, the conveyance speed of the article on which the heat treatment is performed, the steam pressure, the steam amount, the negative pressure in the negative pressure chamber that sucks the steam, and the discharge angle of the warm air. The setting support device according to any one of Claims 1 to 6.

8. The model is a learning model machine-learned to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is given. The setting support device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The characteristic data further includes mechanical characteristics of the shrinkage device. The mechanical characteristics include one or more characteristics selected from the group consisting of a heating method of the shrinkage device, dimensions of the heating chamber, and an orientation during conveyance of an article on which the heat treatment is performed. The setting support device according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The setting support process is as follows. Receive the processing result data of the heat treatment. Generate adjustment information for the processing parameters based on the processing result data. The setting support device according to claim 2 or 3.

11. A shrinkage device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat treatment, A setting support device configured to execute setting support processing for the shrinkage device, Comprising: The setting support process is as follows. Receive characteristic data regarding at least one of characteristics of the article and characteristics of the shrink film. Obtain the processing parameters by providing the characteristic data to a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is given. A shrinkage system.

12. A setting support method for a shrinkage device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat treatment, comprising: Obtain characteristic data regarding at least one of characteristics of the article and characteristics of the shrink film. Obtain the processing parameters from the characteristic data using a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is given. A setting support method.

13. A computer program for causing a computer to perform processing for supporting the setting of a shrinkage device that attaches a shrink film to an article by heat treatment, comprising: Causing the computer to: Receive characteristic data regarding at least one of characteristics of the article and characteristics of the shrink film. Obtain the processing parameters from the characteristic data using a model configured to output processing parameters in the heat treatment when the characteristic data is given. Output the processing parameters. A computer program.

14. The computer is mounted on a terminal device capable of communicating with the shrinking device, causing the output of the processing parameter includes causing a signal based on the processing parameter to be transmitted to the shrinking device The computer program according to claim 13.

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