Program generating method, program, recording medium, control device and program generating apparatus

Abstract

To provide a program generating method capable of reducing an operator's burden as compared with the conventional art.SOLUTION: A method of generating a program for flowing fluid to a control target device having a container and a pipeline connected with the container includes: acquiring first, by a processing section, information about the quantity of fluid stored in the container before a start of a first operation step and information about the first operation step; determining whether or not the container lies at a start point of a flow passage through which fluid flows in a second operation step following the first operation step; generating a flow passage in the second operation step through which fluid flows with the container given as a start point if the container lies at the start point of the flow passage; then generating an operation program in the second operation step of the control target device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a program generation method, a program, a recording medium, a control device, and a program generation device. [Background technology]

[0002] In fields that handle fluids, such as water treatment systems and chemical plants, devices (controlled equipment) with flow path structures consisting of pumps, valves, containers (tanks), piping, and reactors are well known. When designing such equipment, a drawing called a piping and instrumentation diagram (P&ID) is typically created. In a P&ID, piping is typically represented by lines and other equipment by shapes, and the flow path structure is expressed by connecting or overlapping the lines and shapes. The lines and shapes used in a P&ID are called symbols. Furthermore, such equipment performs various chemical and physical processes using fluid materials, and the flow path of the fluid materials must be opened, closed, or changed appropriately depending on the process. To automate the operation of the equipment, it is necessary to configure the device so that the operation of pumps, valves, and other components can be controlled by a computer, and then generate and prepare a control program to be executed by the computer.

[0003] However, if the control programs for such devices are created and implemented entirely by hand, it takes a long time and is prone to errors.

[0004] Therefore, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for automatically implementing a control program based on setting data that defines an input / output signal list and a sequence flow. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-198237 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in recent years, as these devices have become more multifunctional and the processing content has become more complex, when multiple tanks can be the starting point of a flow path in a certain operation process, the operator has to analyze the previous operation process and determine the starting point of the flow path. Therefore, implementing a control program automatically under conditions where multiple tanks can be the starting point of a flow path places a heavy burden on the operator. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A first aspect for solving the above problem is a method for generating a program for flowing a fluid in a controlled device having a container and a pipe connected to the container, wherein a processing unit acquires information regarding the amount of the fluid stored in the container before a first operation step begins and information regarding the first operation step, determines whether the container will be the starting point of a flow path through which the fluid will flow in a second operation step after the first operation step, and if the container will be the starting point of the flow path, generates a flow path in the second operation step through which the fluid will flow, starting from the container, and generates an operation program for the second operation step of the controlled device.

[0008] A second aspect for solving the above problem is a program generation device that generates a program for flowing a fluid into a controlled device having a container and a pipe connected to the container, and is characterized in that it comprises: a storage determination unit that acquires information regarding the amount of fluid stored in the container before a first operation process begins and information regarding the first operation process, and determines whether the container will be the starting point of a flow path through which the fluid will flow in a second operation process after the first operation process; a flow path formation unit that generates a flow path in the second operation process through which the fluid will flow, starting from the container if the container will be the starting point of the flow path; and a control program generation unit that generates an operation program for the second operation process of the controlled device.

[0009] A third aspect for solving the above problem is a method for generating a program for flowing a fluid through a controlled device having a container and a pipe connected to the container, wherein a processing unit acquires information regarding the amount of the fluid stored in the container before a first operation step begins and information regarding the first operation step, determines whether the container will be the starting point of a flow path through which the fluid will flow in a second operation step after the first operation step, and if the container will be the starting point of the flow path, generates a flow path in the second operation step through which the fluid will flow, starting from the container, and displays the flow path on a display unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the above-described solution, it is possible to provide a program generation method and a program generation device that can reduce the burden on the worker compared to conventional methods. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a program generation device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining piping diagram data. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a drawing selection screen. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a drawing display screen. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining operation process information. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining storage information. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining controlled device information. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining symbol type information. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating symbol information. [Figure 10] 4 is a flowchart for explaining a program generation method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for acquiring the fluid storage state in a certain device. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for determining whether or not to store fluid in a device in a certain operation process. [Figure 13] 10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for determining whether or not to release fluid from a device in a certain operation process. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example in which a symbol is decorated to make it easier for a user to recognize the storage state. [Figure 15] (A) An example of a diagram showing that there is no fluid flow path starting from the symbol of a certain device. (B) An example of a diagram showing that there is a fluid flow path starting from the symbol of a certain device. [Figure 16] In Example 1, a piping drawing with drawing ID 1. [Figure 17] In Example 1, a piping drawing with drawing ID 2. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining an information processing device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a setting file loading screen. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a configuration file. [Figure 21] 10 is a flowchart for explaining a program generation method according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] A process design support system, which is an example of a program generation device, a program generation method, and the like will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0013] In the drawings referred to in the following description of the embodiments, elements denoted by the same reference numerals have the same functions unless otherwise specified.

[0014] [Process design support system] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration and functions of a process design support system 10, which is an example of a program generation device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that while FIG. 1 uses blocks to represent elements necessary for explaining the features of this embodiment, general elements not directly related to the problem-solving principle are omitted. Furthermore, the elements illustrated in FIG. 1 are functional concepts and do not necessarily have to be physically configured as illustrated. For example, the specific form of distribution and integration of each block is not limited to the illustrated example, and all or part of the blocks can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on the usage situation, etc.

[0015] The process design support system 10 is a system for an operator who creates a control program for operating a controlled device having a flow path structure including, for example, pumps, valves, vessels (tanks), piping, and a reaction vessel. The process design support system 10 of the present disclosure is a system intended to reduce either the physical or mental burden that may be imposed on an operator when designing an operating process for operating the controlled device. The reduction in burden is, for example, at least one of improved visibility, reduced work time, and easier process understanding.

[0016] It has been known that when designing the operational process of a controlled device, a piping and instrumentation diagram is first created. In a piping and instrumentation diagram, piping is represented by lines and various other devices by shapes, and the flow path structure is expressed by connecting or overlapping the lines and shapes. The lines and shapes used in a piping and instrumentation diagram are called symbols. Among these symbols, there are symbols that can be the starting point of a flow path in a specific operational process and symbols that cannot be the starting point of a flow path. There are two types of symbols that can be the starting point of a flow path: symbols that represent a fluid being supplied from outside the drawing, and symbols that represent a container that can store a fluid. The former are drawn on the drawing as the starting point of a fluid flow path when a fluid is supplied from a location not shown on the drawing (for example, a plant utility). The latter corresponds to symbols that represent a type of container, such as a tank.

[0017] These vessels may or may not contain fluid depending on the plant's operational process, and only when they contain fluid can the vessel serve as the starting point of a flow path. Therefore, to identify the starting point of a flow path in a certain operational process, it is necessary to determine the reservoir state of the vessel at the start of the operational process. However, in conventional systems for generating operational programs, an operator must determine whether a specific symbol serves as the starting point of a flow path in a specific operational process and whether a flow path is formed. The present disclosure was arrived at as a result of extensive research by the inventors in light of this background.

[0018] As shown in FIG. 1, a process design support system 10 according to an embodiment includes a control program generation device 1, a display unit 1000, an input unit 2000, and a PC 3000. The block shown as the control program generation device 1 in the figure is a schematic representation of functions performed by the PC 3000 when it executes a processing program, and data used when executing the processing program. Each functional block included in the control program generation device 1 can be configured using hardware or software. For example, it can be configured by a CPU reading and executing a control program stored in a storage device or a non-transitory recording medium. Alternatively, some or all of the functional blocks may be configured using hardware such as an ASIC included in the control program generation system.

[0019] The process design support system 10 creates a control program file 6000. The control program file 6000 is a control program executed by a PLC 4000 (programmable logic controller), which is an example of a control device, when the PLC 4000 is used to control the operation of a control target device 5000 (for example, an industrial plant).

[0020] The PC 3000 of the process design support system 10 includes, as hardware, a CPU as a central processing unit, ROM and RAM as storage units, and I / O as an input / output interface. The ROM can store a processing program that realizes an information processing method that executes a control program file, which will be described later. The RAM is used as a work area for the CPU when executing the information processing method. Various external storage devices, such as an HDD or SSD (not shown) or a network-mounted external storage device of another system, can be connected to the PC 3000 and used as a storage unit together with the ROM and RAM.

[0021] The processing program for realizing the process design support system 10 according to the embodiment or for executing the program generation method can be stored in the ROM of the PC 3000 or in an external storage device such as an HDD or SSD. Alternatively, the processing program can be supplied to the storage unit and its contents can be updated via a computer-readable recording medium such as an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a magnetic tape, a USB memory, or an SSD. Alternatively, the processing program can be written to the storage unit via a network and I / O.

[0022] The display unit 1000 is a device for displaying various information to the operator when the program generation method is executed, as will be described later, and may be, for example, a liquid crystal display device or an organic EL display device.

[0023] The input unit 2000 is a device for an operator to input various instructions and information when executing the program generation method, and may be an input device such as a keyboard, jog dial, mouse, pointing device, or voice input device.

[0024] Next, the functions performed by the PC 3000 when it executes the processing programs and the data used when executing the processing programs will be described with reference to FIG.

[0025] (User interface section) The user interface unit 2 displays various information on the display unit 1000 and receives input of various information and instructions from the input unit 2000. The user interface unit 2 includes a display screen generation unit 20 that generates screen information to be displayed on the display unit 1000. The display screen generation unit 20 can output screen information such as a drawing selection screen 21 and a drawing display screen 22 to the display unit. Note that the configuration of the display screen generation unit 20 is not limited to this example, and screens may be integrated, separated, added, etc. in consideration of, for example, the operability of the worker.

[0026] (Storage part) The PC's memory unit 3 stores various information used to identify the start point of the flow path in each operation step of the flow path structure and to design the flow path based on the identified information. The various information stored in the memory unit 3 includes operation step information 30, symbol type information 33, symbol information 34, and control program file information 35.

[0027] The operation process information 30 includes storage information 31 and controlled device information 32. The storage information 31 includes, for example, information about the position and amount of fluid in the flow path structure of the controlled device during a specific operation process. The storage information 31 may also include information about at least one of the type of fluid, the temperature of the fluid, the state of the fluid (gas or liquid), and the agitation state of the fluid.

[0028] The control program file information 35 is a control program file 6000 that is generated by the processing unit 4 and converted into a format that can be executed by the PLC 4000, and is stored in the storage unit 3 in a format that can be stored and read.

[0029] However, the configuration of the information stored in the storage unit 3 is not limited to this example, and for example, in consideration of maintainability, each piece of information may be integrated or separated, or log information of operations by workers may be added.

[0030] (Processing section) The processing unit 4 identifies the starting point of the flow path in each operation step of the flow path structure and performs various processes required for designing the flow path based on the identified information. The processing unit 4 includes a data management generation unit 41, a storage determination unit 42, a flow path formation unit 43, and a control program generation unit 44.

[0031] The data management generation unit 41 manages the association of IDs included in various information stored in the storage unit 3, and saves and acquires information.

[0032] The storage determination unit 42 uses the operation process information 30 to acquire or calculate information regarding the amount of fluid stored in the container before the specified operation process begins and the storage state of the container at the start of the specified operation process, and determines whether the container can be the starting point of the specified operation process.

[0033] The flow path forming unit 43 determines whether the container is the starting point of a flow path based on the acquired storage state and the information determined by the storage determining unit 42, and if the container is the starting point of a flow path, generates a flow path through which the fluid flows, starting from the container. Note that if the container is not the starting point of a flow path, the flow path is not generated.

[0034] In order to realize the flow path generated by the flow path forming unit 43, the control program generating unit 44 generates time-series data of the operation of controlled devices such as pumps and valves included in the controlled device 5000 for each operation step, and converts the time-series data into a format executable by the PLC 4000. That is, the program generating unit 44 generates an operation program in a format executable by the PLC 4000 that realizes an operation step whose starting point is a container that has acquired a storage state.

[0035] (data table, display screen) Next, various information displayed on the display unit 1000 and screens operated by the operator when identifying the start point of a flow path and generating a flow path based on that information will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 9. FIG.

[0036] <Piping drawing data> The piping drawing data 5 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. The plant to be designed has a flow path structure including multiple flow paths, and the piping drawing data 5 includes a piping drawing 51 that shows the flow path structure as graphic information when a certain operation process is started. The same number of piping drawings 51 are created as the number of operation processes, and the piping drawing data 5 is a collection of these. Each piping drawing 51 includes a piping drawing ID 50, a symbol ID, and multiple symbols.

[0037] The piping drawing ID 50 is an ID for identifying (specifying) each of the piping drawings 51. The data management generation unit 41 creates drawing management information that associates each of the piping drawings 51 with the piping drawing ID 50, and stores the information in the storage unit 3.

[0038] Symbols are figures that represent devices that are components of a flow path structure, and different figures are used for each type of component, such as tanks and pipes, as shown in Fig. 8. Figures that allow an operator to intuitively grasp the type and function of the component are preferably used. Note that the components include controlled elements (controlled devices) whose operation is controlled for each operating process, such as a tank bottom valve.

[0039] The symbol ID is ID information for individually identifying (specifying) each symbol, and is written alongside the symbol in the drawing, such as T-1, P-1, V-1, etc. As will be described later, the symbol ID is listed as symbol ID 351 in FIG.

[0040] <Drawing selection screen> The drawing selection screen 21 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. The drawing selection screen 21 is a screen used by an operator to call up a piping drawing 51 corresponding to a certain operation process when designing a flow path for that piping drawing. The drawing selection screen 21 includes a drawing ID input box 211 and a drawing selection completion button 212. The drawing ID input box 211 is an input box in which the operator inputs the piping drawing ID 50. The drawing selection completion button 212 is a button that transitions to the drawing display screen (Fig. 4) when clicked by the operator.

[0041] <Drawing display screen> The drawing display screen 22 will be described with reference to FIG. 4. The drawing display screen 22 is a screen that displays the drawing selected by the drawing selection screen 21 and includes a piping drawing ID 50 and a piping drawing 51. By viewing the drawing display screen 22, an operator can check the fluid storage state and flow path of the equipment. In this example, a first tank represented by symbol T-1 is connected to a first pipe represented by symbol P-1, and the first pipe is connected to a second tank represented by symbol T-2. The first tank stores 100 L of fluid and is provided with a first valve represented by symbol V-1. The second tank is provided with an agitator represented by symbol M-1 and a second valve represented by symbol V-2. The second tank is connected to a pipe represented by symbol P-2, which is connected to an arrow represented by symbol S-1. The arrow symbol indicates the location of the connection to another drawing.

[0042] <Operation process information> The operation process information 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. The operation process information 30 includes an operation process ID 301, storage information 31, and controlled device information 32. Each piece of information will be described in turn.

[0043] <Storage information> The storage information 31 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. The storage information 31 is created for each operation process and is associated with a symbol ID 351 that identifies each container (e.g., a tank) that can store a fluid. That is, the storage information 31 is associated with information about the location of the fluid. Also recorded are fluid presence / absence 311 indicating whether the fluid is stored in the container, and, if the fluid is stored, the amount 312 of the fluid, type 313, temperature 314, and stirring state 315.

[0044] <Controlled device information> 7, the controlled device information 32 will be described. The controlled device is each device provided in the controlled apparatus that is controlled by an operation program to be created later, such as a tank bottom valve located at the bottom of a tank, an agitator disposed in the tank, or a valve connected to a pipe that can control the movement of a fluid. The controlled device information 32 is created for each operation process, and time-series information on the operation status 321 of the controlled device (open / closed state for a valve, ON / OFF for an agitator, etc.) is recorded in association with a symbol ID 351 that identifies each controlled device.

[0045] <Symbol type information> The symbol type information 33 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. The symbol type information 33 indicates the characteristics of each type of component that constitutes the flow path structure in association with a symbol, and the type of component can be identified by the symbol type ID 331.

[0046] The symbol shape 332 is a figure used to represent each component in the piping diagram data 5, and is a shape that makes it easy to understand the role of each flow path component. The name 333 is a name that represents the type of equipment. Controllability 334 indicates whether the equipment is a controlled equipment, and if it is controllable, it is a controlled equipment, and if it is not controllable, it is not a controlled equipment. The fluid storage ability 335 indicates whether the equipment can store fluid, and if it is yes, it means that it can store fluid, and if it is not, it means that it cannot store fluid.

[0047] <Symbol information> The symbol information 34 will be described with reference to Fig. 9. The symbol information 34 indicates the relationship between the symbol ID 341 of the component element depicted in the flow path structure drawing and the symbol type ID 331 of the component element.

[0048] [How to generate a program] Next, referring to the flowchart of Figure 10, we will explain a method for selecting an arbitrary operation process, identifying the starting point of the flow path in that operation process, generating the flow path for that operation process, and generating an operation program for the controlled device to generate that flow path.

[0049] First, in step S1, the worker determines the target piping drawing 51 using the drawing selection screen 21 (FIG. 3). That is, the worker determines the piping drawing 51 by inputting the piping drawing ID 50 in the drawing ID input box 211 of the drawing selection screen 21. As described above, since the same number of piping drawings 51 as the number of operation processes are created, it can be said that the operation process to be the target of this processing is selected. The selected operation process is an example of a second operation process, and this operation process is referred to as operation process X. After finishing inputting the piping drawing ID 50 in the drawing ID input box 211, the worker clicks the drawing selection completion button 212. When the drawing selection completion button 212 is clicked, the process proceeds to step S2.

[0050] In step S2, the processing unit 4 of the process design support system 1 acquires the symbol ID 341 of the equipment capable of storing a fluid from the piping drawing 51 acquired in step S1. First, the processing unit 4 refers to the fluid storage capability 335 of the symbol type information 33 to acquire the symbol type ID 331 of the equipment capable of storing a fluid. Next, the processing unit 4 refers to the symbol information 34 to acquire the symbol ID 341 of the equipment having the symbol type ID 331 of the equipment capable of storing a fluid (for example, a tank). Once acquired, the processing unit 4 proceeds to step S3.

[0051] In step S3, the processing unit 4 acquires the fluid storage state for each device capable of storing the liquid acquired in step S2. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure for acquiring the fluid storage state in device A, which is a device capable of storing liquid, at the start of operation process X. When the following conditions 1 and 2 are met, the processing unit 4 determines that fluid is stored in device A when operation process X, which is the second operation process, is started.

[0052] Condition 1: In the first operation step prior to operation step X, there is an operation of storing fluid in device A, or fluid is present in device A at the start of the second operation step. Condition 2: Between the final operation (or initial state) of storing fluid in device A and operational process X, there is no operation of discharging fluid from device A.

[0053] First, in steps S31 and S32 of FIG. 11, the processing unit 4 checks whether condition 1 is satisfied. That is, the processing unit 4 uses the controlled device information 32 of the operation steps prior to operation step X, which is the second operation step, to determine whether those operation steps cause fluid to accumulate in device A. If an operation that accumulates fluid in device A exists (step S31: YES), the operation step including that operation is set as operation step Y as an example of a first operation step, and the process proceeds to step S33. If an operation that accumulates fluid in device A does not exist (step S31: NO), the process proceeds to step S32. In step S32, it is checked whether fluid is accumulated in device A in the initial state, and if it is accumulated, the process proceeds to step S33. If it is not accumulated, condition 1 is not satisfied, so the process proceeds to step S35, where it is determined that fluid is not accumulated in device A in operation step X, and the process ends.

[0054] 12 is a flowchart showing the procedure for determining whether or not to store fluid in device A in an operation process prior to operation process X, which is a second operation process, using controlled device information 32 for those operation processes. When the following conditions 3 and 4 are satisfied, an operation process that is an example of a certain first operation process is set as operation process Z, and it is determined that fluid will be stored in device A in operation process Z.

[0055] Condition 3: Fluid is flowing into device A during operating process Z. Condition 4: The fluid flowing into device A in operating process Z has no destination.

[0056] 12, the processing unit 4 checks condition 3. If no fluid has flowed into device A (step S311: NO), condition 3 is not met, so the process proceeds to step S314, where it is determined that no fluid has accumulated in device A and the process ends. If fluid has flowed into device A (step S311: YES), the process proceeds to step S312.

[0057] Next, in step S312, the processing unit 4 checks condition 4. Condition 4 is, for example, a condition that tank A does not have a valve or valves connecting it to an outflow destination. If the fluid flowing into device A does not have an outflow destination, device A satisfies conditions 3 and 4, so the process transitions to step S313, where it is determined that the fluid is being stored in device A, and the process ends. If the fluid flowing into device A has an outflow destination, condition 4 is not satisfied, so the process transitions to step S314, and the process ends. Through the above process, the processing unit 4 can determine whether or not the fluid is being stored in device A in operation process Z. If an operation process before operation process X exists in step S31, the processing unit 4 executes steps S311 to S314 for that operation process to determine whether or not there is an operation process before operation process X that stores the fluid in device A. Note that if there is only one operation process X, it is not necessary to repeat the determination process.

[0058] Returning to FIG. 11, in step S33, the processing unit 4 checks whether condition 2 is satisfied. Condition 2 is, for example, a condition that there is no operation to open the tank bottom valve of device A, which is a tank, and there is no valve or valve in tank A that connects it to an outflow destination. As in step S31, using the controlled device information 32 in each operation process, it is determined whether or not the operation process is an operation process in which fluid is discharged from device A. If there is an operation process in which fluid is discharged from device A (step S33: YES), condition 2 is not satisfied, so the processing unit 4 transitions to step S35, determines that no fluid has accumulated in device A in operation process X, and ends the processing. If there is no operation process in which fluid is discharged from device A (step S33: NO), both conditions 1 and 2 are satisfied, so it is determined that fluid has accumulated in device A in operation process X, and transitions to step S34.

[0059] 13 is a flowchart showing the procedure when the processing unit 4 uses the controlled device information 32 in a certain operation process to determine whether or not to release fluid from device A in that operation process. When the following conditions 5 and 6 are satisfied, it is determined that fluid is to be released from device A in operation process Z.

[0060] Condition 5: Fluid is present in device A during operating process Z. Condition 6: The fluid present in device A in operating process Z has a destination.

[0061] First, in step S331 of Fig. 13, condition 5 is checked. If no fluid is present in device A, condition 5 is not met, so the process proceeds to step S334, where it is determined that no fluid has been discharged from device A and the process ends. If fluid is present in device A, the process proceeds to step S332.

[0062] In step S332, condition 6 is confirmed. Condition 6 is, for example, a condition that there is an operation to open the tank bottom valve of device A, which is a tank, and there is an operation to open a valve or valves that connect tank A to an outflow destination. If there is no outflow destination for the fluid present in device A, device A does not satisfy condition 6, so the process transitions to step S334, where it is determined that the fluid is not being discharged from device A, and the process ends. If there is an outflow destination for the fluid present in device A, condition 6 is satisfied, so the process transitions to step S333, where it is determined that the fluid is being discharged from device A, and the process ends. Through the above processing, it can be determined whether or not the fluid is being discharged from device A in operation process Z.

[0063] Returning to FIG. 11, finally, in step S34, the processing unit 4 determines that device A, which is a device capable of storing liquid, is the starting point of the flow path. Then, information on the fluid stored in device A is acquired. The fluid information is information on at least one of the type of fluid, the temperature of the fluid, the state of the fluid (gas or liquid), and the stirring state of the fluid.

[0064] Returning to FIG. 10, when steps S31 to S35, which are the processes described with reference to FIG. 11 for each device acquired in step S2, are completed, the drawing display screen 22 is displayed on the display unit 1000, and the process proceeds to step S4.

[0065] In step S4 of FIG. 10, image editing is performed on the symbols determined in step S3 to contain fluid, to enhance their recognizability to the operator. That is, the image is edited so that symbols containing fluid and potentially serving as the starting point of a flow path are differentiated from symbols containing no fluid and not serving as the starting point of a flow path. This allows the operator to easily recognize which symbols contain which fluid. For example, symbols containing fluid may be represented with a different color or texture than symbols containing no fluid, or with a different line width or type (e.g., solid or dotted). Alternatively, the color or texture of the symbols may be changed depending on the type of fluid contained (e.g., liquid or gas, water or organic solvent, etc.), temperature, stirring state, etc., or identification information (e.g., letters, marks, etc.) for the operator's recognition may be added to the symbols. Alternatively, the operator may decorate the symbols with text information indicating the amount or type of fluid contained.

[0066] For example, as shown in Figure 14, if a bar indicating the amount of fluid stored is displayed on a tank symbol, and when the tank stores fluid, the bar is filled in according to the amount, and the fluid type 313 and temperature 314 are also added, the operator can intuitively recognize the storage state. Of course, the method of modification is not limited to the example in Figure 14, and any design that makes it easy to intuitively understand the type of fluid and the stored amount is preferably used. The type of fluid and the stored amount may also be displayed using text information or color intensity. Once the modification has been applied, the process proceeds to step S5.

[0067] Next, in step S5, the start point of the flow path is identified from the symbol on the drawing, and the flow path is generated and drawn on the display unit. Specifically, the symbol of the component (device) where the fluid is stored is used as the start point, and the flow path through which the fluid flows is represented on the drawing based on the controlled device information 32. For example, as shown in FIG. 15(A), in the case of a tank that does not store fluid, the fluid does not flow out, so the flow path through which the fluid flows is not represented. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 15(B), in the case where the fluid is stored in the tank and the adjacent valve is open, a flow path through which the fluid flows out from the tank is formed, so the flow path is represented on the drawing. In the example of FIG. 15, the flow path is represented by displaying the frame of the symbol that becomes the flow path with a thick line, but the method of improving the worker's identifiability is not limited to this. For example, the symbols of the component that becomes the flow path may be represented with different colors or textures, or with different line widths or line types (solid lines and dotted lines, etc.). Alternatively, the color or texture of the symbol may be changed depending on the type of fluid flowing through the flow path (for example, whether it is a liquid or a gas, water or an organic solvent, etc.), or identification information (such as letters or marks) may be added to the symbol for the operator's recognition. Alternatively, the symbol may be decorated to make it easier for the operator to recognize the amount and type of fluid.

[0068] Then, in step S6, an operation program for the controlled device is generated to configure the generated and drawn flow path. The generation of the operation program can be performed using a known method described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2022-130297. The operation program may be generated for each operation process, or after forming flow paths for multiple operation processes, the multiple operation processes may be output together as a single program.

[0069] As described above, according to this embodiment, before generating an operation program for a controlled device, the start point of the flow path is identified and then the flow path is generated. Furthermore, before generating the flow path, the operator is allowed to recognize fluid storage information in the container that is the start point of the flow path, so that the fluid storage state in the equipment and piping can be easily identified before generating the operation program. Therefore, a program generation method that can reduce the burden on the operator compared to conventional methods can be provided.

[0070] [Example 1] A specific example of a program generation method will be described below. For example, assume that the piping diagram 51 selected by the operator in step S1 of FIG. 10 is the piping diagram 51 of FIG. 4. Also, assume that this piping diagram 51 is a piping diagram for an operation process whose operation process ID 301 is 2. This operation process is called operation process X. Also, assume that operation process information 30, symbol type information 33, and symbol information 34 are as shown in FIGS. 5, 8, and 9, respectively. Furthermore, assume that storage information 1 described in FIG. 5 is as shown in FIG. 6, and controlled device information 1 and controlled device information 2 are as shown in FIG. 7. In this case, the piping diagram 51 of the operation process whose operation process ID 301 is 1 can be displayed on the display unit 1000 as shown in FIG. 16.

[0071] Next, in step S2, the processing unit 4 acquires symbols that can store fluid from the symbols on the piping diagram 51. By referring to the symbol type information 33, it is found that the symbols for which fluid storage possibility 335 is possible are tanks (symbol type ID 341: 4). Next, by referring to the symbol information 34 (FIG. 9), the symbol type ID 331 of T-1 and T-2 is 4. From the above, of the symbols on the piping diagram 51, the two symbols that can store fluid are T-1 and T-2.

[0072] Next, in step S3, the processing unit 4 determines the storage status of the two symbols. That is, for the two symbols, the processing of steps S31 to S35 described with reference to Fig. 11 is executed. First, the storage status of T-1 is determined.

[0073] First, in step S31, the processes of steps S311 to S314 (FIG. 12) are executed for the operation steps before operation step X to check whether there is an operation step in which fluid is stored in T-1. That is, step S311 is executed for the operation step immediately before operation step X (operation step ID 301:1). Referring to FIG. 16, it is seen that no fluid is flowing into T-1, so the process proceeds to step S314, and it can be determined that no fluid is stored in T-1 in the operation step with operation step ID 1, so the process proceeds to step S32.

[0074] In step S32, device A checks whether fluid is stored in the initial state. By referring to storage information 1 (FIG. 6), it is found that fluid is stored in T-1 in the initial state, and therefore the process proceeds to step S33.

[0075] In step S33 (FIG. 11), the processes of steps S331 to S334 are executed for the operation steps between the initial state operation steps X (operation step ID 301:2), i.e., the operation steps for which the operation step ID 301 is 1. First, in step S331, it is confirmed whether fluid is present in T-1. By referring to the storage information 1 (FIG. 6), it is determined that fluid is present in T-1, and therefore the process proceeds to step S332. In step S332, it is confirmed whether there is a destination for the fluid present in T-1. By referring to the controlled device information 1 (FIG. 7), it is determined that the tank bottom valve V-1 at the bottom of T-1 is open, and therefore the fluid present in T-1 is flowing out to P-1. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S333, and it can be determined that the fluid is being discharged from device A. From the above, the process proceeds to step S35, and it is determined that no fluid is stored in T-1 in operation step X.

[0076] Next, the storage state of T-2 is determined. First, in step S31, the processes of steps S311 to S314 (FIG. 12) are executed for the operation steps before operation step X to confirm whether or not there is an operation step in which fluid is stored in T-2. That is, step S311 is executed for the operation step immediately before operation step X (operation step ID 301:1). With reference to controlled device information 1, it is determined that V-1 is in the open state, so that the fluid flowing out from T-1 to P-1 flows into the upper part of T-2, and therefore the process proceeds to step S312. Next, in step S312, it is confirmed whether or not there is an outflow destination for the fluid flowing into T-2. With reference to controlled device information 2, it is determined that V-2 is in the closed state, so that there is no outflow destination for the fluid flowing into T-2. Therefore, the process proceeds to step S313, where it can be determined that the fluid is stored in T-2 in the operation step with operation step ID 1, and the process proceeds to step S33.

[0077] Next, step S33 is executed to check whether there is an operation step for discharging fluid between the operation step for storing fluid in T-2 (operation step ID: 1) and operation step X. In this example, since there is no operation step between the two operation steps, the determination result is NO, and the process proceeds to step S34.

[0078] In step S34, detailed information about the fluid stored in T-2 is obtained. Referring to storage status 1 (FIG. 6), it is seen that the amount of fluid stored in T-2 is 100 L, the type is chemical A, and the temperature is 25°C. Furthermore, referring to controlled device information 2, it is seen that agitator M-1 is OFF in operation process X, and therefore the agitation state is unmixed.

[0079] Next, in step S4, the symbols T-1 and T-2 are decorated to enhance the distinguishability of the storage state, and in step S5, an image representing the flow path is generated based on the controlled device information 3. When step S5 is completed, the piping diagram 51 of the operating process X displayed on the display unit 1000 becomes the example shown in FIG.

[0080] [Embodiment 2] An information processing method and an information processing device according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 18 to Fig. 21. Descriptions of matters common to the first embodiment will be simplified or omitted. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it acquires stored information from an external setting file.

[0081] 18 is a schematic diagram illustrating an information processing device capable of executing the information processing method according to this embodiment. The information processing device includes a display screen generation unit 20 having a setting file loading screen 23. Furthermore, since the storage information is acquired from an external source, the processing unit does not include a storage determination unit.

[0082] (Configuration file loading screen) The setting file loading screen 23 will be described with reference to Fig. 19. The setting file loading screen 23 is a screen that is displayed on the display unit 1000 when the setting file 6 is loaded from an external device.

[0083] The setting file loading screen 23 includes a file name input box 231 and a setting file loading completion button 232. The file name input box 231 is an input box for the operator to input the path of the setting file 6. The drawing selection completion button 212 is a button that the operator clicks to complete the drawing selection process. When this button is clicked, the processing unit 4 loads the setting file 6, and the display content of the display unit 1000 transitions to the drawing selection screen (FIG. 4).

[0084] (configuration file) The setting file 6 will be described with reference to Fig. 20. The setting file 6 includes operation process IDs 301 and storage information 31, and indicates the storage information 31 for each operation process ID 301.

[0085] [Information processing method] Next, referring to the flowchart of Figure 21, we will explain an information processing method for acquiring storage information from outside, selecting an arbitrary operation process, acquiring information related to the storage status of each device at the start of that operation process, and displaying it on the display unit 1000.

[0086] First, in step S0, the setting file 6 is read to acquire the storage information 31. That is, the setting file 6 is read by the operator inputting the path of the setting file 6 in the file name input box 231 on the setting file reading screen 23.

[0087] Next, the process proceeds to step S1, and steps S1 and S2 are the same as those in the first embodiment.

[0088] Next, in step S3, the storage state of the symbols capable of storing fluid is acquired. In the first embodiment, the storage state was determined from the controlled device information 32. In contrast, in the second embodiment, the storage state of each symbol is acquired using the storage information 31 acquired from the external file in step S0. Once the storage state of each symbol has been acquired, the process proceeds to step S4. In steps S4 and S5, the same processes as in the first embodiment are performed.

[0089] As described above, according to this embodiment, by reading the external setting file 6, it is possible to identify the start point of the flow path and design the flow path.

[0090] [Other embodiments] It should be noted that the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and examples, and many modifications are possible within the technical concept of the present disclosure. For example, the above-described different embodiments and examples may be combined in whole or in part.

[0091] For example, in order for an operator to input or edit the information contained in the tables illustrated in Figures 5 to 9, 14, 20, 22, and 23, the tables shown in these figures can be displayed on a display unit and input by the operator can be accepted.

[0092] Furthermore, processes that can be designed by applying the program generation method according to the present disclosure are typically processes related to the manufacture of goods, such as processing and cleaning of parts, synthesizing materials, etc., which are carried out using an apparatus equipped with a flow path structure. However, the program generation method according to the present disclosure can also be applied to design processes other than those described above, which are carried out using an apparatus equipped with a flow path structure, in flow path systems such as water treatment systems and chemical plants.

[0093] The present disclosure can also be realized by providing a program that realizes one or more functions of the embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0094] The present disclosure includes the following:

[0095] (Section 1) A method for generating a program for causing a fluid to flow through a controlled device having a container and a pipe connected to the container, the method comprising: The processing unit obtaining information about the amount of the fluid stored in the container before a first operational step begins and information about the first operational step; In a second operating step after the first operating step, determining whether the container is the starting point of a flow path through which the fluid flows; When the container is the starting point of the flow path, a flow path is generated in the second operating step through which the fluid flows, with the container as the starting point; A program generation method for generating an operation program for the second operation step of the device to be controlled.

[0096] (Section 2) Item 1. A program generation method according to item 1, wherein, when the container is the starting point of the flow path, the processing unit displays on a display unit information regarding the amount of fluid stored before the second operation step begins before generating a flow path in the second operation step through which the fluid flows, starting from the container.

[0097] (Section 3) 3. The program generating method according to item 2, wherein the processing unit displays the symbol of the container on the display unit in a manner different from the symbol when the container is not the starting point.

[0098] (Section 4) 4. A method for generating a program according to any one of items 2 and 3, wherein the processing unit, before generating a flow path in the second operation step through which the fluid flows starting from the container, displays information about the type of the fluid along with the amount of the fluid stored before the second operation step begins on a display unit.

[0099] (Section 5) 5. A method for generating a program according to any one of items 2 to 4, wherein the processing unit displays on a display unit information regarding the temperature of the fluid together with the amount of the fluid stored before the second operation process begins, before generating a flow path in the second operation process through which the fluid flows starting from the container.

[0100] (Section 6) 6. A program generation method according to any one of items 2 to 5, wherein the processing unit, before generating a flow path in the second operation step through which the fluid flows starting from the container, causes a display unit to display information on whether the fluid is a gas or a liquid, along with the amount of the fluid stored before the second operation step begins.

[0101] (Section 7) 7. A method for generating a program according to any one of items 2 to 6, wherein the processing unit, before generating a flow path in the second operation step through which the fluid flows starting from the container, displays on a display unit information regarding the stirring state of the fluid together with the amount of the fluid stored before the second operation step begins.

[0102] (Section 8) 8. The program generation method according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the processing unit displays on a display unit a flow path through which the fluid flows, starting from the container, before generating the operation program.

[0103] (Section 9) 9. A program generated by the program generation method according to any one of items 1 to 8.

[0104] (Section 10) Item 10. A computer-readable recording medium having the program described in item 9 recorded thereon.

[0105] (Section 11) Item 10. A control device that reads the program according to item 9 and executes the program.

[0106] (Section 12) A program generation device that generates a program for causing a fluid to flow through a controlled device having a container and a pipe connected to the container, a storage determination unit that acquires information regarding the amount of the fluid stored in the container before a first operation step begins and information regarding the first operation step, and determines whether the container will be the starting point of a flow path through which the fluid flows in a second operation step that follows the first operation step; a flow path forming unit that generates a flow path in the second operation step through which the fluid flows, the flow path starting from the container when the container is the starting point of the flow path; a control program generation unit that generates an operation program for the second operation step of the control target device.

[0107] (Section 13) A method for generating a program for causing a fluid to flow through a controlled device having a container and a pipe connected to the container, the method comprising: The processing unit obtaining information about the amount of fluid stored in the container before a first operational step begins and information about the first operational step; In a second operating step after the first operating step, determining whether the container is the starting point of a flow path through which the fluid flows; When the container is the starting point of the flow path, a flow path is generated in the second operating step through which the fluid flows, with the container as the starting point; A program generating method, comprising displaying the flow path on a display unit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] 1. Control program generator 2 User Interface Section 3 Storage section 4 Processing section 6 Configuration files 10 Process Design Support System 20 Display screen generation section 23 Setting file loading screen 30 Operation process information 31 Storage Information 32 Controlled device information 33 Symbol type information 34 Symbol Information 35 Control program file information 41 Data Management and Generation Unit 42 Storage determination unit 43 Flow path forming section 44 Control program generation unit 231 File name input box 232 Setting file loading completion button 311 Fluid presence / absence 312 quantity 313 Type 314 Temperature 315 Stirring state 321 Operating Status 332 Symbol Shape 333 Name 334 Controllability 335 Fluid storage availability 1000 display 2000 Input section 5000 Controlled Devices 6000 control program files

Claims

1. A method for generating a program for causing a fluid to flow through a controlled device having a container and a pipe connected to the container, the method comprising: The processing unit obtaining information about the amount of fluid stored in the container before a first operational step begins and information about the first operational step; In a second operating step after the first operating step, determining whether the container is the starting point of a flow path through which the fluid flows; When the container is the starting point of the flow path, a flow path is generated in the second operating step through which the fluid flows, starting from the container; A program generation method for generating an operation program for the second operation step of the device to be controlled.

2. A program generation method as described in claim 1, wherein the processing unit, when the container is the starting point of the flow path, causes a display unit to display information regarding the amount of fluid stored before the second operation process begins before generating a flow path in the second operation process through which the fluid flows, starting from the container.

3. The program generating method according to claim 2 , wherein the processing unit displays the symbol of the container on the display unit in a form different from a symbol when the container is not the starting point.

4. A program generation method as described in claim 2, wherein the processing unit causes a display unit to display information about the type of fluid along with the amount of fluid stored before the second operation process begins before generating a flow path in the second operation process through which the fluid flows starting from the container.

5. A program generation method as described in claim 2, wherein the processing unit causes a display unit to display information regarding the temperature of the fluid along with the amount of the fluid stored before the second operation process begins before generating a flow path in the second operation process through which the fluid flows starting from the container.

6. A program generation method as described in claim 2, wherein the processing unit, before generating a flow path in the second operation process through which the fluid flows starting from the container, displays on a display unit information on whether the fluid is a gas or a liquid, along with the amount of the fluid stored before the second operation process begins.

7. A program generation method as described in claim 2, wherein the processing unit displays information on the stirring state of the fluid along with the amount of the fluid stored before the second operation process begins on a display unit before generating a flow path in the second operation process through which the fluid flows starting from the container.

8. The program generating method according to claim 1 , wherein the processing unit causes a display unit to display a flow path through which the fluid flows, the flow path starting from the container, before generating the operation program.

9. A program generated by the program generation method according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. A computer-readable recording medium on which the program according to claim 9 is recorded.

11. A control device that reads the program according to claim 9 and executes the program.

12. A program generation device that generates a program for causing a fluid to flow through a controlled device having a container and a pipe connected to the container, a storage determination unit that acquires information regarding the amount of the fluid stored in the container before a first operation step begins and information regarding the first operation step, and determines whether the container will be the starting point of a flow path through which the fluid flows in a second operation step that follows the first operation step; a flow path forming unit that generates a flow path in the second operation step through which the fluid flows, the flow path starting from the container when the container is the starting point of the flow path; a control program generation unit that generates an operation program for the second operation step of the control target device.

13. A method for generating a program for causing a fluid to flow through a controlled device having a container and a pipe connected to the container, the method comprising: The processing unit obtaining information about the amount of fluid stored in the container before a first operational step begins and information about the first operational step; In a second operating step after the first operating step, determining whether the container is the starting point of a flow path through which the fluid flows; When the container is the starting point of the flow path, a flow path is generated in the second operating step through which the fluid flows, the flow path starting from the container; A program generating method, comprising displaying the flow path on a display unit.

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