Information processor

Abstract

To provide an information processor which facilitates various investigations for a mechanical device.SOLUTION: An information processor includes a storage device for storing data, and a processor, and can communicate with a first terminal, wherein the storage device stores specification data relating to operation of a mechanical device operated based on an operation program, and an application for performing predetermined processing relating to the operation of the mechanical device based on the specification data, and the processor executes the application based on operation from the first terminal, and thereby performs predetermined processing relating to the mechanical device selected based on the operation from the first terminal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] In a mechanical device that operates based on an operation program of a robot or the like introduced into a manufacturing system or the like of various products, it is necessary to adapt the operation program of the mechanical device to the surrounding environment when the mechanical device is introduced or the system is changed.

[0003] Regarding this, Patent Document 1 discloses a robot simulation device that performs an operation simulation of a system combining an actual robot and actual peripheral devices by displaying the operations of the robot and the peripheral devices on a screen. However, Patent Document 1 cannot perform the simulation unless an actual robot is introduced into an actual manufacturing facility. Therefore, it is difficult to use for the application study at the time of introducing the robot.

[0004] Also, Patent Document 2 discloses a system that communicates between a robot that executes a service and an information processing apparatus, and selects an appropriate service based on the state of the robot, information in the service-providing area, etc., and causes the robot to execute the service. However, Patent Document 2 also assumes the operation after the robot is introduced into the service-providing area, and it is difficult to use for the application study at the time of introducing the robot.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Even after the introduction of the robot into the system, it is necessary to conduct various studies related to the operation of the robot, such as error analysis and lifespan prediction.

[0007] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an information processing apparatus capable of easily conducting various studies related to a mechanical device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] An information processing apparatus according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a storage unit that stores data and a processor, and is an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a first terminal. The storage unit stores specification data related to the operation of a mechanical device that operates based on an operation program, and an application for performing a predetermined process related to the operation of the mechanical device based on the specification data. The processor executes the application based on an operation from the first terminal to perform the predetermined process related to the mechanical device selected based on the operation from the first terminal.

Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, various studies related to a mechanical device can be easily conducted.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments for implementing the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following, the same or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals throughout all the drawings, and duplicate descriptions thereof are omitted. In the following, a robot is exemplified as a mechanical device that operates based on an operation program.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a data platform system realized by an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The data platform system 1 in the present embodiment includes a server 2 that is an information processing apparatus, and a plurality of processing terminals 31, 32, 33 communicably connected to the server 2. The server 2 and the plurality of processing terminals are communicably connected by a predetermined communication network such as the Internet. The plurality of processing terminals 31, 32, 33 are configured by computers capable of communicating with the server 2, such as personal computers and smartphones. In the following, when the plurality of processing terminals are collectively described, or when any one of the processing terminals is described, they are referred to as the processing terminal 3 as shown in FIG. 2 described later.

[0013] The server 2 is configured as a cloud server for browsing data stored in the server 2 and executing an application program when accessed by the processing terminal 3. Alternatively, the server 2 may be configured as a local server.

[0014] The processing terminal 3 includes a first terminal 31, a second terminal 32, and a third terminal 33. The first terminal 31 is a processing terminal owned by a user who uses the present data platform system 1. In the example of FIG. 1, one first terminal 31 is shown, but a plurality of first terminals 31 owned by a plurality of users can access the server 2. The user who operates the first terminal 31 includes an end user who is an introducer of the robot, a robot administrator who manages or provides services for the robot 6, a system integrator who performs system integration for applying the robot to the system, an academic research institution, a vendor, a startup, and the like. Note that the end user includes a user who has already introduced the target robot 6, that is, a user who owns the actual machine of the robot 6, and a user who intends to introduce the robot 6 in the future, that is, a user who does not own the actual machine of the robot 6.

[0015] In addition, in the present embodiment, the description is mainly made assuming a general-purpose robot in which a basic operation program is pre-installed as the robot 6, in other words, a robot whose operation is not optimized for the end user's system. However, the robot 6 is not limited to this, and for example, a dedicated robot manufactured for the end user's system can also be the target of the present data platform system 1.

[0016] When the end user has already introduced the robot 6, the operation data of the robot 6 can be uploaded to the server 2 and stored in the storage 21. For example, the controller 7 of the robot 6 generates operation data from various measurement values of the robot 6 and transmits it to the upper system controller 8. The system controller 8 is configured to be able to transmit data to the server 2 and transmits the operation data to the server 2. The system controller 8 controls the entire robot system including the robot 6 and the peripheral device 9 of the robot 6. The operation data may include the operation data of the peripheral device 9 or the operation data of the entire robot system. The system controller 8 is constituted by, for example, a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) or the like.

[0017] Note that the controller 7 of the robot 6 may be configured to transmit operation data to the server 2, or a measuring instrument that measures a predetermined value related to the operation of the robot 6 may be configured to transmit operation data to the server 2.

[0018] The robot state data may include the three-dimensional position of a specific part such as a hand, the rotation angle of a joint, the current value flowing through a servo motor or the like, the hydraulic pressure of the hydraulic oil supplied to the hydraulic mechanism, the operation history, the error history, the maintenance record, and the like.

[0019] Further, a camera 10 for monitoring the robot 6 may be installed near the installation location of the robot 6. This camera 10 may also be configured to be communicable with the server 2. In this case, the camera 10 is configured to transmit the captured data obtained by capturing the operation of the robot 6 to the server 2. Note that the camera 10 and the controller 7 or the system controller 8 of the robot 6 may be connected so as to be able to transmit data, and the controller 7 or the system controller 8 may acquire the captured data captured by the camera 10 and transmit the captured data to the server 2.

[0020] The owner of the second terminal 32 includes the producer of the application executed on the server 2 described later. Further, the owner of the second terminal 32 may include a data producer who produces various data stored in the storage 21 of the server 2. In the example of FIG. 1, one second terminal 32 is shown, but a plurality of second terminals 32 owned by a plurality of application producers or the like are accessible to the server 2. The application producer or the like who operates the second terminal 32 may include a system integrator, an academic research institution, a vendor, a startup, or the like. Further, the application producer or the like may be an end user, or may be a manufacturer or administrator of a robot. Thus, the owner of the second terminal 32 can also be a user of the data platform system 1. That is, the second terminal 32 may be a common processing terminal with the first terminal 31. Further, the second terminal 32 may be a common processing terminal 3 with the third terminal 33 described later.

[0021] The third terminal 33 is a terminal owned by the manufacturer of the robot or the manufacturer of the peripheral device. In the example of FIG. 1, one third terminal 33 is shown, but a plurality of third terminals 33 owned by a plurality of robot manufacturers or the like can access the server 2. The manufacturer of the robot operated by the third terminal 33 owns the actual robot 6 and the specification data regarding the operation of the robot 6. Similarly, the manufacturer of the peripheral device owns the peripheral device 9 and the specification data regarding the operation of the peripheral device 9. The owner of the third terminal 33 can also be a user of this data platform system 1. That is, the third terminal 33 may be a common processing terminal with the first terminal 31.

[0022] The specification data of the robot 6 may include various data regarding the operation of the robot 6, such as the structure of the robot 6, output values, movable range, operation speed, constraint conditions, and specifications of the user interface. Further, the specification data includes the basic operation program of the robot 6. The basic operation program is pre-installed in the robot 6 and realizes the basic operation of the robot 6 alone. It is an operation program for this purpose. When the robot manufacturer manufactures a plurality of types of robots 6, the specification data and the basic operation program of the robot 6 can be prepared for each type of robot 6, that is, for each product. The same applies to the specification data of the peripheral device 9.

[0023] The specification data of the robot 6 or the peripheral device 9 is pre-stored in the storage 21 of the server 2. The specification data of the robot 6 or the peripheral device 9 may be uploaded from the third terminal 33 to the server 2. When the robot manufacturer or the peripheral device manufacturer uploads the specification data to the server 2, a predetermined reward may be paid to the robot manufacturer or the peripheral device manufacturer as a consideration therefor.

[0024] The specification data of the robot 6 is stored in the memory 21 in association with the robot identification information assigned to each type of the robot 6. Thereby, by searching based on the robot identification information, the robot identification information regarding the desired robot 6 can be read out. The robot identification information includes, for example, the product number assigned to the robot 6, the usage type of the robot 6, the product name, and the like. In this way, the data of the product group of the robot 6 provided by the robot manufacturer is stored in the memory 21 of the server 2 in a searchable manner. The specification data of the peripheral device 9 is similarly stored in the memory 21.

[0025] The server 2 includes a memory 21 that stores various types of data, a processor 22 that performs predetermined processing, and a communication interface 23 for communicating with the processing terminal 3. The memory 21 stores the data sent from the processing terminal 3. Further, the memory 21 stores a processing program for the processor 22 to perform predetermined processing based on the operation by the processing terminal 3. The processing program includes an application for performing predetermined processing related to the operation of the robot.

[0026] The processor 22 includes a computer such as a microcontroller or a personal computer. For example, the processor 22 includes a main memory such as a CPU and a RAM.

[0027] Note that the functions of the elements disclosed in this specification can be executed using a circuit or a processing circuit including a general-purpose processor, a dedicated processor, an integrated circuit, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuits), a conventional circuit, or a combination thereof that is configured or programmed to execute the disclosed functions. Since a processor includes transistors and other circuits, it is regarded as a processing circuit or a circuit. In this specification, a circuit, a unit, or a means is hardware that executes the recited functions, or hardware programmed to execute the recited functions. The hardware may be the hardware disclosed in this specification, or other known hardware that is programmed or configured to execute the recited functions. When the hardware is a processor considered to be a type of circuit, the circuit, unit, or means is a combination of hardware and software, and the software is used for configuring the hardware or the processor.

[0028] In the present embodiment, the processing program includes a display program for a website accessible from the processing terminal 3. The processing terminal 3 can communicate with the server 2 by accessing the website, and can perform data transmission and reception, execution of processing by the processor 22, and the like.

[0029] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a functional configuration in the data platform system shown in FIG. 1. The processor 22 of the server 2 executes an application stored in the storage 21, refers to various data stored in the storage 21, and performs predetermined processing, and provides various data or services related to the robot 6 to the user of the first terminal 31. For this reason, the server 2 functions as an application execution unit 2a that executes an application, a database unit 2b that accumulates data, and a digital twin generation unit 2c that generates a digital twin for performing operation simulation and the like. In other words, the server 2 includes an application execution circuit, a database circuit, and a digital twin generation circuit.

[0030] The memory 21 stores a plurality of applications. The applications are produced by application producers. The processor 22 receives the upload of an application from the second terminal 32 and stores the uploaded application in the memory 21. When a plurality of applications are uploaded, the plurality of applications are accumulated in the server 2 and can be provided to users accessing the server 2. For example, a user operating the first terminal 31 can use a plurality of applications on the website by accessing and logging in to the website of the present data platform system 1 opened on the Internet. Note that one or more applications may be stored in the memory 21 in advance.

[0031] When an application producer uploads an application to the server 2, a predetermined reward may be paid to the application producer as consideration therefor. In addition to, or instead of, this, a predetermined reward may be paid to the application producer as consideration for a user using the application.

[0032] The plurality of applications stored in the memory 21 may include applications different for each use. For example, the plurality of applications may include an application review application A1, a data search application A2, a status monitoring application A3, a management support application A4, a development support application A5, and the like. These applications will be described in order below.

[0033] [Application Review Application] The application review application A1 is an application that can perform design review of a robot system to which the robot 6 is applied, operation simulation of the robot system, or operation optimization of the robot 6 in the robot system based on an operation input of the first terminal 31.

[0034] FIG. 3 is an image diagram of the application study application in the present embodiment. The user who uses the application study application is, for example, the end user himself / herself, or a program producer such as a system integrator or a robot administrator commissioned by the end user.

[0035] By the end user executing the data search application A2 described later, the program producers registered in the server 2 can be searched, and an order for application study can be placed with the program producers via the server 2. Note that an order for application study may be placed with a plurality of program producers, and work sharing may be performed among the plurality of program producers.

[0036] The user owns the peripheral environment data regarding the peripheral environment to which the robot 6 is applied. For example, the peripheral environment data includes information other than the robot 6 in the system to which the robot 6 is applied. More specifically, the peripheral environment data may include data of peripheral devices on the upstream side or the downstream side of the system to which the robot 6 is applied. Also, the peripheral environment data may include data of mounting parts mounted on the robot 6. The mounting parts mounted on the robot 6 include, for example, a robot hand, a camera, a sensor, etc. Also, the peripheral environment data includes the movable range, constraint conditions, required specifications when the robot is installed at the installation location, and data of the work that is the processing target of the robot 6. The work data may include, for example, specification data such as dimensions, weight, and material, or three-dimensional data.

[0037] The user operates the first terminal 31 to access the website of the data platform system 1 and selects and executes the application study application A1. The processor 22 prompts the operation input of the first terminal 31 in an interactive form, for example, based on the application study application A1. For example, the processor 22 prompts the upload of the peripheral environment data for which the application of the robot 6 is desired. When the peripheral environment data is uploaded from the first terminal 31, the processor 22 stores the uploaded peripheral environment data in the storage 21.

[0038] The surrounding environment data may be design data about the surrounding environment or document data such as a specification. In the case of document data, the document data may be generated by the processor 22 inputting, in an interactive manner based on the application A1 for applicability study, response contents to the question contents indicated from the processor 22 from the first terminal 31.

[0039] The processor 22 stores, in the storage 21, the surrounding environment data uploaded from the first terminal 31 in association with identification information such as the login ID of the user operating the first terminal 31.

[0040] Also, the processor 22 reads out the specification data of the target robot 6 from the storage 21. The selection of the target robot 6 may be made by the user's designation. Alternatively, the selection of the target robot 6 may be made by the processor 22 presenting one or a plurality of candidates of the robots 6 based on the input of the surrounding environment data and the user selecting from among the candidates. Similarly, the selection of the peripheral device 9 can also be made. The processor 22 reads out the specification data of the selected peripheral device 9 from the storage 21.

[0041] The processor 22 performs a construction process of a robot system including the robot 6 based on the specification data regarding the operation of the robot 6 and the surrounding environment data. At this time, the processor 22 may construct a virtual robot system, so-called digital twin, based on the design content in the virtual space and display the virtual robot system in the virtual space on the monitor of the user's first terminal 31. When the work sharing of applicability study is performed among a plurality of program producers, one virtual space may be shared and a plurality of program producers may perform their respective works in the virtual space to construct one virtual robot system.

[0042] The user can modify the design of the virtual robot system constructed on the server 2 by operating the first terminal 31. The processor 22 modifies various parameters in the virtual robot system, modifies or adds the robot 6 or the peripheral device 9, etc., based on the input from the first terminal 31.

[0043] In the applicability study application A1, applicability studies can be carried out for various design types. For example, the design types include process design, operation plan design, system configuration design, equipment selection, manufacturing equipment design, layout design, operation instruction sequence, external interface design, user interface design, applicable condition parameter design, etc.

[0044] Also, the processor 22 generates an operation program for the peripheral environment that is suitable for the peripheral environment to which the robot 6 is applied, based on the specification data regarding the operation of the robot 6 and the peripheral environment data. For this purpose, a plurality of reference operation programs are stored in advance in the storage device 21. The reference operation program may be, for example, an operation program for the peripheral environment generated in the past, or an operation program separately produced by the program producer. The reference operation program is an operation program that causes the robot 6 to perform a predetermined operation. Applicability study application A1 is associated with at least one reference operation program.

[0045] The processor 22 generates an operation program for the peripheral environment using the reference operation program associated with the applicability study application A1. For example, the processor 22 selects the reference operation program with the closest operation content from among the plurality of reference operation programs associated with the applicability study application A1, based on the virtual robot system constructed on the server 2, that is, the specification data regarding the operation of the robot 6 and the peripheral environment data, and generates it as an operation program for the peripheral environment.

[0046] Alternatively, the processor 22 may generate an operation program for the surrounding environment by processing a part of the reference operation program associated with the application review application A1 based on the virtual robot system constructed on the server 2. A part of the reference operation program selected from among a plurality of reference operation programs may be processed to generate an operation program for the surrounding environment.

[0047] At this time, in the operation program for the surrounding environment, an operation route corresponding to the surrounding environment of the robot 6 is determined. For example, the operation route is determined in consideration of minimizing the tact time, suppressing deflection and vibration within a specified range, making the operation route suitable for the work content, or a combination thereof.

[0048] The processor 22 can perform an operation simulation using the digital twin constructed on the server 2 based on the generated operation program for the surrounding environment. For this purpose, the storage 21 of the server 2 stores a simulation program for performing the operation simulation of the robot 6. As described above, the processor 22 constructs a virtual robot system in the virtual space based on the specification data and the surrounding environment data of the robot 6 and the like. More specifically, the operation environment of the robot 6 is constructed in the virtual space based on the surrounding environment data. Also, a virtual robot 6 imitating the actual machine is installed at the installation location of the robot 6 in the virtual space based on the specification data of the robot 6. The virtual robot 6 operates in the virtual space based on the operation program for the surrounding environment.

[0049] The user can change the design of the virtual robot system constructed on the server 2 based on the result of the operation simulation using the digital twin. Also, the processor 22 can adjust the content of the operation program for the surrounding environment based on the change in the design of the robot system. In this way, by adjusting the operation program for the surrounding environment, it is possible to examine the optimization of the operation in the virtual robot system of the robot 6.

[0050] The end user can consider whether to introduce the robot 6 based on the design results of the robot system obtained by executing such an application consideration application A1, or the operation simulation results, etc. Also, the program producer can consider and produce an operation program for the peripheral environment of the robot 6 in the robot system.

[0051] The generated operation program for the peripheral environment is stored in the storage 21 of the server 2 based on the input from the first terminal 31. At this time, information on the mounting parts, necessary peripheral devices, and work for the robot 6 in the robot system constructed on the server 2 is stored in the storage 21 in association with the operation program for the peripheral environment as additional information of the operation program for the peripheral environment. That is, the processor 22 generates information on the selected mounting parts, peripheral devices, or work as additional information of the operation program for the peripheral environment based on the selection operation from the first terminal 31 when executing the application consideration application A1.

[0052] Also, the storage 21 stores the system design data of the virtual robot system constructed in the virtual space. The system design data is stored in association with the corresponding operation program for the peripheral environment. The system design data may be document data such as a specification document, or drawing data such as design drawings. It may also be three-dimensional computer graphics data that can reproduce the operation in the virtual space.

[0053] In this way, by using the application A1 under consideration, the user can construct a virtual robot system in the virtual space and conduct a trial operation. As a result, before introducing the robot 6, it is possible to confirm the capabilities of the robot system, the equipment operation rate, etc. Therefore, it is possible to easily make a prior judgment on whether to introduce the robot system and optimize the robot system. Also, when an actual system identical to the virtual robot system constructed in the virtual space is realized, the operation program for the peripheral environment that operates the virtual robot 6 in the virtual robot system can be used as it is as the operation program for the robot 6 to be applied to the actual robot system.

[0054] Therefore, end-users in various fields can easily consider and carry out the introduction work of a robot system using general-purpose robots. General-purpose robots have a basic operation program for performing predetermined operations pre-installed by the robot manufacturer. However, since the robot manufacturer cannot fully grasp the detailed requirements specifications, constraints, etc. in the systems of each field, it is not easy for the robot manufacturer to individually produce operation programs for the peripheral environment that optimize the operation of the robot 6 in the systems of each field one by one. For this reason, the end-user who is the system administrator conventionally had to hire a system integrator or outsource it in order to perform system integration for introducing a general-purpose robot into the system and operating it as a part of the system.

[0055] System integration requires specialized knowledge regarding programs, familiarity with the peripheral environment, and understanding of the specifications of the robot 6, and is time-consuming. Therefore, system integration may become an obstacle to the introduction of the robot 6 into the system, and is one of the reasons why it is difficult for the robot 6 to spread to various systems in various fields.

[0056] On the other hand, by using the data platform system 1 of the present embodiment, various data necessary for system integration can be comprehensively referenced and utilized on the server 2, so that it is possible to easily conduct an applicability study for system integration.

[0057] Here, in the present embodiment, a plurality of applicability study applications A1 are stored in the storage 21. In FIG. 2, three applications A, B, and C are shown as the plurality of applicability study applications A1. Each of the plurality of applicability study applications A1 is associated with at least one reference operation program. The reference operation programs associated with each applicability study application A1 may be different from each other. A reference operation program common to the plurality of applicability study applications A1 may be associated. When conducting an applicability study, the user can operate the first terminal 31 to select and execute the applicability study application A1 that the user wants to use from among the plurality of applicability study applications A1.

[0058] The plurality of applicability study applications A1 may include, for example, applications different according to the application fields of the robot 6, that is, the surrounding environment. For example, applicability study applications A1 for each field such as the logistics field, the agricultural field, the construction civil engineering field, the medical and nursing care field, the cooking and food service field, and the manufacturing field may be stored in the storage 21. In this case, the surrounding environment in which the robot 6 is applied in the relevant field is assumed to some extent in the applicability study application A1 for a predetermined field.

[0059] Therefore, for example, a part of the robot system constructed by executing the applicability study application A1 is preset as a template in advance. Also, an operation program according to the operation of the robot 6 assumed in advance in the relevant field is associated in advance with the applicability study application A1 as a reference operation program.

[0060] For example, in the application study application A1 in the logistics field, it is possible to conduct an application study of the robot 6 for packing the workpiece which is a product. In this case, a conveying machine such as a conveyor is preset as the peripheral device 9. Also, a hand suitable for gripping the packing box is preset as a mounting part of the robot 6. Further, as a reference operation program, for example, an operation program for the robot 6 to perform a series of operations such as gripping and unfolding the packing box and moving the workpiece conveyed from the upstream conveying machine into the box is associated with the application study application A1 as the reference operation program.

[0061] Also, for example, in the application study application A1 in the agricultural field, it is possible to conduct an application study of the robot 6 for harvesting fruits. In this case, a fruit sorting device is preset as the peripheral device 9. Also, pruning shears for fruit harvesting are preset as a mounting part of the robot 6. Further, as a reference operation program, for example, an operation program for the robot 6 to perform a series of operations such as gripping the fruit by hand, cutting the branch with the fruit attached with the pruning shears to harvest the fruit, and delivering the harvested fruit to the sorting device is associated with the application study application A1 as the reference operation program.

[0062] Note that the preset peripheral device 9 or the mounting part of the robot 6 may be one, or may be selectable from a plurality. Also, it may be possible to select peripheral devices 9 or mounting parts of the robot 6 other than the preset peripheral device 9 or the mounting part of the robot 6. Also, a plurality of reference operation programs corresponding to a plurality of work purposes in one field may be associated with the application study application A1 in that field.

[0063] Also, even in the same field, a plurality of application study applications A1 can be stored in the storage 21. For example, the plurality of application study applications A1 may include an application study application for a program author or a robot 6 administrator and an application study application for beginners such as end users.

[0064] For example, in an application study application for beginners, the required level of peripheral environment data to be input is low. For example, the processor 22 may generate peripheral environment data as document data based on the input content from the first terminal 31 in an interactive manner. Instead, in an application study application for beginners, the degree of design freedom in the constructed robot system and the operation program for the peripheral environment may be low. On the other hand, in an application study application for program producers or administrators of the robot 6, the required level of peripheral environment data to be input is high. For example, a certain degree of system design drawings may be required as peripheral environment data. Instead, the degree of design freedom of the constructed robot system and the operation program for the peripheral environment may be high.

[0065] Also, regardless of the required level of peripheral environment data, a plurality of application study applications A1 with different algorithms may be stored in the memory 21. Thereby, even if the same peripheral environment data is input to each of the plurality of application study applications A1, different robot systems or different operation programs for the peripheral environment may be generated.

[0066] Also, an application for conducting a design study of the system, an application for optimizing the operation of the robot, that is, generating an operation program for the peripheral environment, and an operation simulation may be stored in the memory 21 as a plurality of independent application study applications A1.

[0067] Thus, according to this embodiment, the application study application A1 can be selected and executed from among a plurality of applications. Therefore, a comparative study for selecting a more suitable robot system or an operation program for the peripheral environment for the peripheral environment in which the user intends to apply the robot 6 can be easily performed using a plurality of applications.

[0068] As a result of the applicability study of the robot 6 to the robot system conducted by executing the applicability study application A1, when the end user determines to apply the robot 6, based on the operation of the first terminal 31, it is possible to place an order for the robot 6 and the peripheral device 9 required for the robot system. Further, it may be possible to place an order with the corresponding manufacturer for customizing the robot 6 or the peripheral device 9 required for the robot system via the server 2. Further, when dedicated parts or the like are required as the mounting parts of the robot 6 or the peripheral device 9, it may be possible to request the corresponding manufacturer to develop the dedicated parts via the server 2.

[0069] Further, the processor 22 downloads the corresponding operation program for the peripheral environment to the first terminal 31 based on the operation of the first terminal 31. Thereby, the user who operates the processing terminal 3 can install the downloaded operation program for the peripheral environment in the robot 6 introduced at the installation location owned by the end user.

[0070] When an order is placed for the robot 6 and the peripheral device 9, or when the operation program for the peripheral environment is downloaded, a usage fee for the data platform system 1 may be charged to the user of the first terminal 31 or the end user who purchases the robot 6 or the like. In this case, a part of the usage fee may be returned to the manufacturer of the applicability study application A1 that generated the operation program for the peripheral environment.

[0071] After installing the robot 6 at the installation location owned by the end user and installing the operation program for the peripheral environment, the end user, system integrator, or robot administrator conducts an operation confirmation test of the robot system including the robot 6. The operation confirmation test verifies whether the robot 6 operates normally, whether there is interference with other devices at the installation location of the robot, and whether the robot 6 can appropriately perform a predetermined operation. At this time, the connection information, setting manual, etc. of the robot 6 may be stored in the storage 21 of the server 2. These information necessary for the operation confirmation test can be referred to from the server 2 based on the operation of the first terminal 31.

[0072] The results of the operation confirmation test can be compared with the results of the operation simulation in the digital twin. For this purpose, the memory 21 stores virtual robot state data obtained as the result of the operation simulation in association with the operation program for the surrounding environment. The virtual robot state data may include the three-dimensional position of a specific part such as the hand of the robot 6 operating in the virtual robot system, the rotation angle of the joint, the current value flowing through the servo motor, etc., and the hydraulic pressure of the hydraulic oil supplied to the hydraulic mechanism. The user can determine whether the operation of the robot 6 in the actual robot system is appropriate by comparing the robot state data obtained as the result of the operation confirmation test performed in the actual robot system with the virtual robot state data obtained as the result of the operation simulation.

[0073] Based on the results of the operation confirmation test, the user determines whether it is necessary to correct the operation of the robot 6 based on the operation program for the surrounding environment. For example, when the position of the hand is not at the appropriate position at a predetermined timing, when the current value flowing through the servo motor is out of the appropriate range, or when there is interference with other devices, etc., it is necessary to correct the operation or arrangement of the robot 6. is determined to be necessary.

[0074] If it is determined that the operation program for the surrounding environment needs to be corrected, the user can perform adjustments to the operation program for the surrounding environment, reexamine the virtual robot system, etc. by operating the first terminal 31 to execute the application under consideration A1. The corrected virtual robot system and the operation program for the surrounding environment are updated and stored in the memory 21.

[0075] The user downloads the modified operation program for the peripheral environment to the first terminal 31 and installs it on the robot 6, and then conducts the operation confirmation test of the robot system again. When downloading the modified operation program for the peripheral environment, only the modification patch may be downloaded. If there are no further modifications, the user operates the first terminal 31 to give a confirmation instruction for the robot system and the operation program for the peripheral environment. The processor 22 of the server 2 associates a confirmation label indicating that it is a confirmed operation program for the peripheral environment with the operation program for the peripheral environment stored in the memory 21.

[0076] The confirmed operation program for the peripheral environment stored in the memory 21 is associated as a reference operation program with the application study application A1 that generated the operation program for the peripheral environment. Therefore, when the number of generated operation programs for the peripheral environment in the application study application A1 increases, the number of available reference operation programs in the application study application A1 increases. Therefore, the generation accuracy of the operation program for the peripheral environment in the application study application A1 can be automatically improved.

[0077] In the above example, the mode of using the application study application when conducting the application study of the robot 6 in a new robot system is shown. However, the application study application can also be used when making modifications, expansions, or conversions in an existing robot system.

[0078] Also, in the above example, the mode in which a plurality of application study applications A1 are stored in the memory 21 is exemplified. However, the memory 21 of the server 2 may store only any one of the application for conducting the system design study, the application for generating the operation program for the peripheral environment, or the application for conducting the operation simulation as the application study application A1.

[0079] [Data Search Application] The data search application A2 is an application that can search for data such as the robot 6 or the peripheral device 9 used for the applicability study of the robot 6 based on the operation input of the first terminal 31 and save it in association with the user's login ID.

[0080] Figure 4 is an image diagram of the data search application in the present embodiment. The user who uses the data search application A2 is, for example, a user who conducts an applicability study or a user who already operates a robot system. That is, the user who uses the data search application A2 includes an end user, or a program producer or a robot administrator requested by the end user.

[0081] The storage 21 of the server 2 stores device data, case data, manufacturer data, etc. The device data is the data of the devices required for the robot system such as the robot 6 and the peripheral device 9. The device data includes data regarding the specifications of the device, three-dimensional models, price information, etc. The case data is the data regarding the introduction cases of the robot system realized by introducing the robot 6 into the system. The case data may include the system design data generated by the applicability study application A1.

[0082] The manufacturer data is the data of the pre-registered program manufacturers. The data of the program manufacturers stored in the storage 21 may include information such as the identification information of the program manufacturers, past achievements, areas of expertise, fees, delivery dates, etc. The past achievements may include the content, field, number of production of the robot system that led to the actual adoption of the robot 6 order or the operation program for the peripheral environment into the system.

[0083] Based on the search input operation of the first terminal 31, the processor 22 outputs the search results of the data stored in the memory 21. The processor 22 may display on the first terminal 31 a search screen for each search target such as device search, case search, and manufacturer search, or may display on the first terminal 31 a search screen targeting all data that can be output as search results among the data stored in the memory 21.

[0084] When the user has data to be saved among the search results, the user performs a save operation input using the first terminal 31. For example, in a device search, when a robot 6 or a peripheral device 9 that the user is considering purchasing is found, in a case search, when a case that the user wants to refer to is found, or in a manufacturer search, when a program manufacturer that the user is considering commissioning is found, etc., a save operation input is performed. Based on the save operation input of the first terminal 31 performed on the predetermined data selected from the search results, the processor 22 associates the data with the user's login ID as saved data. As a result, a list of saved data is generated for each user and stored in the memory 21. The user can read out the saved data without performing a search again by viewing their own save list.

[0085] In this way, by using the data search application A2, the user can conduct a preliminary investigation before considering the application of the robot 6 or a system change. Thereby, the consideration of the application of the robot 6 can be carried out smoothly.

[0086] Note that the data search application A2 also functions as an uploader for various data. Based on the upload operation from the second terminal 32 operated by a data manufacturer who provides various data such as device data and case data, the processor 22 uploads device data, case data, etc. from the second terminal 32 and stores them in the memory 21. At this time, a search label is associated according to the type and attributes of the data. The processor 22 outputs as search results the data associated with a search label that matches the search input for the search input.

[0087] In addition, the memory 21 may store a plurality of data search applications A2. In FIG. 2, two applications D and E are shown as the plurality of data search applications A2. For example, the plurality of data search applications A2 may be data search applications with different search targets. Also, for example, a data search application A2 having different data upload functions and search functions may be stored in the memory 21.

[0088] [Status Monitoring Application] The status monitoring application A3 is an application that can perform a status diagnosis of the robot 6 and the robot system based on the operation data in the actually operating robot system.

[0089] FIG. 5 is an image diagram of the status monitoring application in the present embodiment. The user who uses the status monitoring application A3 is, for example, an end user, or a program producer or an administrator of the robot 6 requested by the end user.

[0090] As described above, the operation data of the robot system including the robot 6 and the peripheral device 9 is uploaded to the server 2 and stored in the memory 21 in association with the ID of the end user. The processor 22 can provide the operation data to the first terminal 31. Further, the processor 22 may reproduce the operation status of the actual robot system on the digital twin based on the operation data. Thereby, it is possible to remotely monitor the operation status of the actual robot system at the first terminal 31 at a location away from the actual robot system. Also, when a trouble occurs, error information related to the trouble is transmitted to the first terminal 31. Thereby, it is possible to quickly identify the location of the trouble and investigate the cause of the trouble. Note that when performing remote monitoring, a usage fee for the data platform system 1 may be charged to a remote monitoring user such as an end user.

[0091] Further, the processor 22 can perform a predetermined analysis on the operation data and output the result to the corresponding first terminal 31 as the state diagnosis data of the robot system. For example, the state monitoring application A3 includes a life prediction application. In this case, the processor 22 performs a life prediction of the robot 6 or the peripheral device 9 by analyzing the operation data and outputs the life prediction result. Also, for example, the state monitoring application A3 includes a trend analysis application. In this case, the processor 22 outputs a trend analysis report including, for example, a graph showing the trend of various data measured from the robot 6, such as the current value of the servo motor. In addition, the processor 22 can perform various analyses such as prediction of the recommended maintenance time and production line analysis based on the processing content of the state monitoring application A3.

[0092] The analysis result is provided to the user as visualization data based on the operation data. When the processor 22 performs a predetermined analysis, an operation simulation may be performed on the digital twin using the operation data, so that the operation status of the actual robot system is reproduced in the virtual robot system in the virtual space.

[0093] Also, the processor 22 may present the operation cost calculated from the component replacement cycle for the life prediction of the components used in the robot 6 or the peripheral device 9. Further, the processor 22 may present the content of the operation change of the robot 6 for extending the life. The presented operation change content includes the operation path, posture, operation speed, etc. of the robot 6. Also, the processor 22 may present the content of the operation change of the robot 6 that saves energy based on the analysis result of the operation status. Note that when the analysis result by the processor 22 is output, a charge for using the data platform system 1 may be incurred to the user.

[0094] In addition, the robot administrator or the like may perform life prediction, production line analysis, etc. based on the execution results of the operation simulation using the operation data obtained from the actual robot system in the virtual robot system on the virtual space. For example, the robot administrator or the like can analyze the bottleneck process and propose design changes to the robot system for improving the operation rate to the end user. By reproducing the actual operation status on the digital twin, analysis based on the operation data in the actual robot system can be performed, so that the analysis accuracy can be improved.

[0095] A plurality of state monitoring applications A3 can be stored in the memory 21. In FIG. 2, two applications F and G are shown as the plurality of state monitoring applications A3. For example, the plurality of state monitoring applications A3 may be different applications for each analysis purpose such as life prediction and trend analysis. Also, for example, the plurality of state monitoring applications A3 may be a plurality of life prediction applications with different algorithms for life prediction. Thereby, the user can select and use the state monitoring application A3 that is more suitable for the analysis purpose or the current status of the actual robot system.

[0096] In addition, in this embodiment, an application for performing life prediction using the operation data obtained from the actual robot system is exemplified as the state monitoring application A3. In addition to or instead of this, an application for performing life prediction based on the operation simulation using the digital twin may be stored in the memory 21. In this case, the operation of the robot 6 or the like is simulated in the virtual robot system on the virtual space, and by analyzing various virtual output values, the life prediction of the robot 6 or the like can be performed. Also, the analysis of life prediction may be performed in consideration of both the actual operation data obtained from the actual robot system and the virtual operation data obtained from the operation simulation using the digital twin.

[0097] [Management Support Application] The management support application A4 is an application that can visualize the performance of the robot 6 and the robot system based on the operation data in the actually operating robot system.

[0098] Figure 6 is an image diagram of the management support application in this embodiment. The user who uses the management support application A4 is, for example, an end user. The processor 22 performs a process of visualizing the operation performance of the robot system based on the operation data. For example, when the robot system is configured as a production line of a product, the processor 22 generates a graph or a table regarding the production performance as the operation performance. The generated operation performance of the robot system can be browsed by the first terminal 31 or downloaded to the first terminal 31.

[0099] Note that when browsing the operation performance of the robot system, etc., a charge for using the data platform system 1 may be billed to the user.

[0100] Furthermore, the processor 22 can cooperate with another system 11 and exchange data with the other system 11. For example, the other system 11 includes a business system, a manufacturing management system, or a logistics management system. By cooperating with the other system 11, a more comprehensive evaluation of the operation performance can be performed. Also, the operation performance can be used as basic data for improvement in the other system 11. When cooperating with the other system 11, a charge for using the data platform system 1 may be billed to the user.

[0101] A plurality of management support applications A4 can be stored in the memory 21. In FIG. 2, two applications H and J are shown as the plurality of management support applications A4. For example, the plurality of management support applications A4 may be applications with different performance aggregation methods or display modes.

[0102] [Development Support Application] The development support application A5 is an application that can be used to prototype or consider a new robot 6 or peripheral device 9. FIG. 7 is an image diagram of the development support application in the present embodiment. Users who use the development support application A5 are, for example, manufacturers of robots 6, manufacturers of peripheral devices 9, and the like.

[0103] The processor 22 supports the investigation of market needs based on the search history, data usage history, etc. in the memory 21. For example, it is possible to analyze what kind of robot 6 or peripheral device 9 is required in a field by looking at a robot 6 or peripheral device 9 with a high data usage history and the field of the robot system to which the robot 6 or peripheral device 9 is applied.

[0104] Based on the results of the market needs investigation, the user can develop a new robot 6 or peripheral device 9, or develop an operation program for realizing a new function. The processor 22 may perform prototyping of these by constructing a robot 6, peripheral device 9, or operation program in a virtual space based on the operation input of the first terminal 31.

[0105] In addition, the processor 22 can also import the specification data of the robot 6, the specification data of the peripheral device 9, or the operation program developed by the user into the virtual space and execute an operation simulation. At this time, peripheral environment data assuming the use of the developed robot 6, peripheral device 9, or operation program may be uploaded from the first terminal 31 to the server 2. The processor 22 provides the result of the operation simulation to the corresponding first terminal 31. Thereby, the user can evaluate the robot 6, peripheral device 9, or operation program in the assumed robot system in advance.

[0106] Note that when using the market needs investigation support or when using the operation simulation, a usage fee for the data platform system 1 may be charged to the user.

[0107] The memory 21 can store a plurality of development support applications A5. In FIG. 2, two applications K and L are shown as the plurality of development support applications A5. For example, the plurality of development support applications A5 may be different applications for each type of development target, such as the type of the robot 6 or the type of the peripheral device 9, or may be different applications for different target fields such as the logistics field and the agricultural field. Also, a development support application for conducting a market needs survey and a development support application for supporting the design of the robot 6 or the peripheral device 9 may be provided as different applications. Further, the plurality of development support applications A5 may be a plurality of applications with different market needs survey algorithms from each other.

[0108] [Cooperation with Other Platforms] The server 2 may be communicatively connected to, for example, another server 12 that constitutes another data platform. In this case, the processor 22 of the server 2 can transmit various data stored in the memory 21 to the other server 12. Thereby, in another data platform, the data stored in the memory 21 of the server 2 can be utilized.

[0109] [Other Embodiments] As described above, the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described, but the present disclosure is not limited to the above embodiments, and various improvements, changes, and modifications are possible.

[0110] For example, in the above embodiment, an example was given in which the storage device that stores data in the data platform system 1 is the storage device 21 in one server 2. However, data that can be used in the data platform system 1 may be stored in a plurality of servers 2 that can communicate with each other. Also, in the above embodiment, an example was given in which data and applications that can be used in the data platform system 1 are stored in one server 2. However, the server that stores data, the server that executes applications, and the server that executes operation simulations may be configured as separate servers. That is, the application execution unit 2a, the database unit 2b, and the digital twin generation unit 2c may be configured as separate servers from each other.

[0111] Also, in the above embodiment, an example was given in which the data platform system 1 has five types of applications A1, A2, …, A5 as applications that can be executed on the server 2. However, some of these applications may be absent, or applications other than these may be included. In addition, the data stored in the storage device 21 of the server 2 may include data that can be used only when accessing the server 2 with the login ID of a predetermined user. That is, the processor 22 may restrict the user for some of the data stored in the storage device 21. For example, a non-disclosure label to others is associated with the data whose use is restricted. The processor 22 does not provide the data associated with the non-disclosure label to others to terminals other than the provider or the original user of the data.

[0112] Also, the data stored in the storage device 21 of the server 2 may include a captured image or voice of a camera attached to the robot 6, or a detection result of a sensor attached to the robot 6. The processor 22 may execute an application that analyzes the image, voice, etc. during the operation of the robot 6.

[0113] In addition, the data accumulated in the storage device 21 of the server 2 may include a captured image or voice of a camera attached to the robot 6, or a detection result of a sensor attached to the robot 6. The processor 22 may execute an application that analyzes the image, voice, etc. during the operation of the robot 6.

[0114] Also, in the above embodiment, a robot was exemplified as a mechanical device that operates based on an operation program. However, it may be configured as an information processing device for examining the application of other mechanical devices and the like.

[0115] [Summary of the Present Disclosure] An information processing device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a storage device that stores data, and a processor, and is an information processing device capable of communicating with a first terminal. The storage device stores specification data regarding the operation of a mechanical device that operates based on an operation program, and an application for performing a predetermined process regarding the operation of the mechanical device based on the specification data. The processor executes the application based on an operation from the first terminal to perform the predetermined process regarding the mechanical device selected based on the operation from the first terminal.

[0116] According to the above configuration, in an information processing device communicable with a first terminal, specification data of a mechanical device is stored, and an application for performing a predetermined process regarding the operation of the mechanical device based on the specification data of the mechanical device is executed by a processor of the information processing device. Therefore, various examinations regarding the robot can be easily performed on the information processing device.

[0117] The processor may receive the upload of the application from the second terminal, store a plurality of applications including the uploaded application in the memory, and execute the application selected from the plurality of applications stored in the memory based on a selection operation from the first terminal. Thereby, the user can select and execute an application suitable for the process to be performed from among the plurality of applications. In addition, since the application manufacturer can upload the application produced through the second terminal, the number of applications stored in the memory can be increased in the future. As a result, the user who uses the application can select and execute a more preferable application, and a predetermined process related to the operation of the robot can be realized according to the user's wishes.

[0118] The processor stores the peripheral environment data input from the first terminal in the memory. The memory stores a plurality of reference operation programs for causing the mechanical device to perform a predetermined operation. The application includes a first application for generating an operation program for the peripheral environment for operating the mechanical device so as to conform to the peripheral environment. The first application is associated with at least one of the reference operation programs. When the selected first application is executed, the processor The operation program for the peripheral environment may be generated based on the specification data and the peripheral environment data by using the at least one reference operation program associated with the first application. According to this, the generation of the operation program for the peripheral environment suitable for the peripheral environment to which the user intends to apply the mechanical device can be easily performed on the information processing apparatus.

[0119] When the processor executes the first application, based on a selection operation from the first terminal, it selects a mounting component for the mechanical device, selects a peripheral device that cooperates with the mechanical device, or selects a workpiece that is the operation target of the mechanical device, and associates information on the selected mounting component, peripheral device, or workpiece with the operation program for the peripheral environment as additional information for the operation program for the peripheral environment. Thereby, it is possible to easily grasp a peripheral environment suitable for executing the operation program for the peripheral environment.

[0120] The processor may be able to download the operation program for the peripheral environment generated by executing the application to the first terminal.

[0121] The processor acquires operation data from the mechanical device applied to the peripheral environment, the application includes a second application for predicting the life of the mechanical device, and the processor may output a life prediction result of the mechanical device by analyzing the operation data when the second application is executed. According to this, it is possible to easily perform an analysis of life prediction based on operation data obtained as a result of the user actually operating the mechanical device on the information processing device.

[0122] The storage stores a simulation program for performing an operation simulation of the mechanical device, and the processor constructs a virtual mechanical device in a virtual space based on the specification data by executing the simulation program, and may operate the virtual mechanical device based on the operation program or operation data of the mechanical device. Thereby, by operating the virtual mechanical device constructed in the virtual space, it is possible to perform an operation simulation related to a predetermined process related to the operation of the mechanical device in the virtual space. Therefore, it is possible to perform highly accurate preliminary consideration before constructing or changing an actual system, or to reproduce the actual system on the virtual space and easily grasp the current state of the actual system.

[0123] The mechanical device may include a robot.

Explanation of Signs

[0124] 2 Servers 6 Robots 9 Peripheral Devices 21 Memories 22 Processors 31 First Terminal 32 Second Terminal

Claims

1. An information processing apparatus including a memory for storing data and a processor, and capable of communicating with a first terminal, wherein the memory stores actual operation data of a system including a mechanical device and peripheral devices of the mechanical device, and a plurality of condition monitoring applications for performing condition diagnosis of the system based on the operation data, and when a user operating the first terminal operates the first terminal to select one condition monitoring application from the plurality of condition monitoring applications, the processor executes the selected condition monitoring application, performs condition diagnosis on the operation data using the selected condition monitoring application, and outputs condition diagnosis data of the system to the first terminal. An information processing apparatus.

2. The condition monitoring application includes a life prediction application for predicting the life of the mechanical device, wherein the processor outputs a life prediction result of the mechanical device by analyzing the operation data when the life prediction application is executed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The processor outputs an operation cost calculated from a component replacement cycle of a component used in the mechanical device or the peripheral device when the life prediction application is executed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

4. The processor outputs content of operation change of the mechanical device for extending the life of the mechanical device based on an analysis result of the operation data when the life prediction application is executed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

5. The processor outputs content of operation change of the mechanical device for reducing energy consumed by the system based on an analysis result of the operation data when the life prediction application is executed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2.

6. The condition monitoring application includes a trend analysis application, wherein the processor outputs a trend analysis report indicating a trend of the operation data by analyzing the operation data when the trend analysis application is executed. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.

7. The memory stores a simulation program for performing operation simulation of the mechanical device, The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein when performing a state diagnosis on the operation data, the processor executes the simulation program to perform an operation simulation using the operation data, and reproduce an operation state of the actual system in a virtual system in a virtual space.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the processor outputs, as the state diagnosis data, visualization data that reproduces an operation state of the actual system in the virtual system.

9. An information processing method using data stored in a storage device, wherein the storage device stores actual operation data of a system including a mechanical device and peripheral devices of the mechanical device, and a plurality of state monitoring applications that perform a state diagnosis of the system based on the operation data, and the information processing method includes: a user operating the first terminal to select one state monitoring application from the plurality of state monitoring applications, executing the selected state monitoring application, performing a state diagnosis on the operation data using the selected state monitoring application, and outputting state diagnosis data of the system to the first terminal.

10. A processing program that causes at least one processor to execute the method according to claim 9.

Images