Component management device, program, and method

Abstract

To provide a component management device, a program, and a method for improving work efficiency of a worker.SOLUTION: A component management device includes: a storage unit that stores setting of a plurality of storage rules for an electronic component to be stored in a storage unit having a plurality of component storage units; a rule determination unit that determines one of the plurality of storage rules as a storage rule to be used; and a notification control unit that controls, when storing the electronic component to be stored, execution of a guidance notification in accordance with the storage rule to be used.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a parts management device, a program, and a method. [Background technology]

[0002] A component mounting device for mounting electronic components onto a circuit board is known. The component mounting device has multiple feeders, each of which is set with a component reel containing a different type of component. The component mounting device mounts the electronic components stored on the component reel onto the circuit board via the feeders.

[0003] When the number of electronic components on the component reels set in the component mounting device becomes low or runs out, the worker replaces the component reels stored in the reel storage shelf with the component reels set in the component mounting device to replenish the electronic components. The reel storage shelf has multiple component storage sections, each of which stores a component reel.

[0004] Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 disclose technologies for managing items in storage warehouses such as the above-mentioned reel storage shelves. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an item management system that allows workers to randomly store items on shelves and easily identify the items to be removed, without specifying storage locations for multiple items of the same specifications. Patent Document 2 also discloses a management device that automatically assigns an input shelf position for each item, and, for the input of a group of items of the same group, assigns the input items to shelves in successively adjacent positions based on the shelf position assigned to the first input item of the group. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-028422 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 4-094302 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] However, in the item management system disclosed in Patent Document 1, items are stored in irregular locations, so when workers try to retrieve multiple types of items at once, or when workers try to check the actual items of the same type, they will have to move around over a wide area, which could result in a decrease in work efficiency.

[0007] Furthermore, with the management device disclosed in Patent Document 2, even when a worker wants to quickly store an item in a location of their choice, the storage location is guided, reducing the worker's work efficiency. Note that, when storing a group of items from the same group, if the storage rule simply assigns the items to adjacent locations based on the location of the first item to be stored in that group, this does not meet the requirements when it is desired that the items be stored in the order of a picking list or in the order written in a ledger.

[0008] Therefore, the present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a technique that can improve the work efficiency of a worker. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] In order to solve the above problem, according to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a component management device including: a memory unit that stores settings of multiple storage rules for electronic components to be stored in a storage unit having multiple component storage sections; a rule determination unit that determines one of the multiple storage rules as the storage rule to be used; and a notification control unit that controls the execution of a guidance notification in accordance with the storage rule to be used when storing an electronic component to be stored.

[0010] The storage unit may store each of the plurality of storage rules in association with a period, and the rule determination unit may determine the storage rule associated with the period to which the current date and time belongs as the storage rule to be used.

[0011] The plurality of storage rules may include a first storage rule indicating that the electronic component to be stored can be stored in any of the component storage units.

[0012] The storage unit may store a list of one or more types of electronic components in association with a range of component storage units, and the plurality of storage rules may include a second storage rule indicating that the electronic component to be stored can be stored in a component storage unit within a range associated with the list to which the electronic component to be stored belongs.

[0013] The notification control unit may control, in the second storage rule, the execution of a notification indicating component storage units within a range associated with a list to which the electronic component to be stored belongs.

[0014] The notification control unit may generate a display screen on which a range of component storage units associated with each of the lists of the one or more types of electronic components can be set based on an operation input.

[0015] The memory unit may store a range of component storage units associated with each electronic component included in a ledger used for inventory, and the plurality of storage rules may include a third storage rule indicating that the electronic component to be stored can be stored in a component storage unit within a range associated with the electronic component to be stored.

[0016] In the third storage rule, the notification control unit may control the execution of a notification indicating a component storage unit within a range associated with the electronic component to be stored.

[0017] In the storage unit, electronic components that are consecutive in order in the ledger may be stored in association with the range of adjacent component storage units.

[0018] The notification control unit may generate a display screen on which a range of component storage units associated with each of the electronic components included in the ledger can be set based on an operation input.

[0019] The notification control unit may generate a display screen on which a period associated with each of the plurality of storage rules can be set based on an operation input.

[0020] The memory unit may store the second storage rule or the third storage rule in association with a target time, and the rule determination unit may determine whether to switch to the second storage rule or the third storage rule depending on the target time and the current storage status of the electronic components in the storage unit.

[0021] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention, in order to solve the above-mentioned problem, a program is provided that causes a computer to function as a memory unit that stores settings of multiple storage rules for electronic components to be stored in a storage unit having multiple component storage sections, a rule determination unit that determines one of the multiple storage rules as the storage rule to be used, and a notification control unit that controls the execution of a guidance notification in accordance with the storage rule to be used when storing an electronic component to be stored.

[0022] In addition, according to another aspect of the present invention to solve the above problem, there is provided a computer-executable method including: storing settings of multiple storage rules for electronic components to be stored in a storage unit having multiple component storage sections; determining one of the multiple storage rules as a storage rule to be used; and controlling the execution of a guidance notification in accordance with the storage rule to be used when storing an electronic component to be stored. [Effects of the Invention]

[0023] According to the present invention as described above, it is possible to improve the work efficiency of the worker. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating a parts management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram mainly showing the configuration of a parts management device 220 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of storage reel information. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a picking list. [Figure 5] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a storage state of a component reel P in a storage unit 210. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a ledger; [Figure 7] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a storage state of a component reel P in a storage unit 210. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of an application rule setting screen 40. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a storage range designation screen for each picking list. [Figure 10] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a storage range adjustment screen 80. FIG. [Figure 11] 1 is a flowchart showing an outline of the operation of a component management system 20 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 10 is a flowchart showing a process for determining a storage rule to be used; [Figure 13] This is a flowchart showing storage in a free address system. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart showing storage according to a picking list. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a picking list selection screen 51. [Figure 16] This is a flowchart showing storage in inventory mode (bookkeeping order). [Figure 17] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration 90. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0026] One embodiment of the present invention relates to a component management system that manages electronic components used in a product manufacturing line. Electronic components are mounted on a circuit board by a component mounting device also known as a chip mounter (surface mounter). The component management system according to one embodiment of the present invention sets multiple storage rules for electronic components and dynamically switches between the storage rules to be used among the multiple storage rules. First, an overview of such a component management system according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1.

[0027] <Overview of parts management system> 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a host system 10 and a parts management system 20.

[0028] The upper system 10 and the parts management system 20 are communicatively connected via a network 12. The network 12 is a wired or wireless transmission path for information transmitted from devices connected to the network 12. For example, the network 12 may include public networks such as the Internet, telephone networks, and satellite communication networks, as well as various LANs (Local Area Networks) and WANs (Wide Area Networks) including Ethernet (registered trademark). The network 12 may also include a dedicated line network such as an IP-VPN (Internet Protocol-Virtual Private Network).

[0029] (Top System 10) The host system 10 is a system that controls the operation of the component management system 20. The host system 10 sends instructions to the component management system 20 and receives information from the component management system 20. A component mounting device that mounts electronic components on a circuit board may be connected to the host system 10 or the component management system 20. The component mounting device has multiple feeders, each of which is set with a component reel containing a different type of electronic component. The component mounting device mounts the electronic components stored on the component reel onto the circuit board via the feeder.

[0030] (Parts Management System 20) The component management system 20 has a storage unit 210, also called a reel storage shelf, and a component management device 220. An operator stores component reels in the storage unit 210. When a component mounting device is about to run out of components, or when a component has already run out of components, the operator removes a component reel from the storage unit 210 and replaces it with a component reel set in the component mounting device, thereby replenishing the supply of electronic components.

[0031] The storage unit 210 includes a pair of side frames 211, a plurality of shelves 212, a top panel 213, a plurality of casters 214, and a notification unit 216.

[0032] The pair of side frames 211 extend perpendicular to the placement surface of the storage unit 210. Multiple placement shelves 212 are installed at different heights between the pair of side frames 211. The top panel 213 connects the upper ends of the pair of side frames 211. The casters 214 support the storage unit 210 so that it can be moved.

[0033] Each mounting shelf 212 is provided with a plurality of component storage sections C. Each component storage section C stores a component reel P. The component reels P stored in each component storage section C may store different electronic components. Each component reel P stores a wound tape, such as a paper tape with a plurality of electronic components attached thereto, or an embossed tape formed with electronic components set in a plurality of recesses.

[0034] Each component storage section C is also provided with a display element D. The display element D may be an LED (Light Emitting Diode) lamp that lights up or flashes in various colors. However, each component storage section C may be provided with a speaker that outputs sound or voice instead of or in addition to the display element D.

[0035] The notification unit 216 is installed on the top panel 213. The notification unit 216 is a part that notifies the worker by display, light, sound, voice, or the like.

[0036] The component management device 220 stores information about the electronic components stored in the storage unit 210. When an operator attempts to store a component reel P in the storage unit 210, the component management device 220 controls the execution of a guidance notification that guides the operator to the component storage section C where the component reel P should be stored. In particular, the component management device 220 according to one embodiment of the present invention determines an applicable storage rule from among a plurality of storage rules, and controls the execution of a guidance notification in accordance with the applicable storage rule. The configuration and operation of the component management device 220 will be described in detail below.

[0037] <Configuration of parts management device 220> FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram mainly showing the configuration of a component management device 220 according to one embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 also shows each component storage section Cj (j=1, 2, ...). In addition to the display element Dj described above, each component storage section Cj is provided with a sensor Ej. The sensor Ej detects whether a component reel P has been stored in the component storage section Cj, whether a component reel P is being stored in the component storage section Cj, and whether a component reel P has been removed from the component storage section Cj. The sensor Ej may be, for example, a sensor that uses magnetic force.

[0038] As shown in FIG. 2, the part management device 220 includes an operation display unit 222, a storage unit 223, a communication unit 224, and a control unit 226.

[0039] (Operation display section 222) The operation display unit 222 functions as an operation unit that accepts operations by a worker and as a display unit that displays information. However, the function as an operation unit and the function as a display unit may be realized separately. For example, the operation display unit 222 displays an application rule setting screen, a storage range specification screen for each picking list, a storage range adjustment screen, and a picking list selection screen. Details of each screen will be described later.

[0040] (Storage unit 223) The storage unit 223 stores various information, programs, and the like used in the operation of the component management device 220. The storage unit 223 is configured, for example, by memory on the board of the control unit 226 or an SSD (Solid State Drive). As shown in FIG. 2, the storage unit 223 stores an OS (Operating System), storage reel information, an operation panel application, storage rule settings, and application rule settings. The storage unit 223 also stores board firmware (not shown).

[0041] The OS is software that realizes input / output functions such as data input from the operation / display unit 222 and screen output by the operation / display unit 222, management of the storage unit 223, and a clock function that provides the date and time.

[0042] The storage reel information is information that indicates the electronic components stored in each of the multiple component storage sections C. For example, after the barcode reader 230 reads the barcode attached to the component reel P, when an operator stores the component reel P in a component storage section C, the sensor Ej detects which component storage section Cj the component reel P has been stored in. Based on the detection result by the sensor Ej, the control section 226 associates the component information of the component reel P previously read by the barcode reader 230 with the component storage section Cj in which the component reel P has been stored as storage reel information and stores them in the memory section 223.

[0043] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of storage reel information. As shown in FIG. 3, the storage reel information associates information indicating component storage section C with the component item name and component quantity. For example, the information indicating component storage section C1 is associated with the item name "Component N-1" and the component quantity "2000." This indicates that component storage section C1 stores a component reel P that stores 2000 electronic components with the component control number "Component N-1." Furthermore, the information indicating component storage section C3 is associated with the item name and component quantity "Empty." This indicates that component storage section C3 does not store a component reel P and is empty.

[0044] The operation panel application is software that generates various operation screens to be displayed on operation display unit 222. Control unit 226 generates various operation screens based on the functions of the operation panel application and causes operation display unit 222 to display the various operation screens.

[0045] The storage rule settings indicate how the component reels P should be stored in the storage unit 210 for each of a plurality of storage rules. The storage rule settings can be set based on the operator's operation on the operation screen displayed on the operation display unit 222. The plurality of storage rules include free address, which is an example of a first storage rule, picking list, which is an example of a second storage rule, and inventory mode, which is an example of a third storage rule. Each storage rule will be described in detail below.

[0046] The applied rule setting is setting information for determining which storage rule to apply. The applied rule setting will be described in detail later.

[0047] (Communication Department 224) The communication unit 224 communicates various information with the upper system 10. Furthermore, when a component mounting device is connected to the component management system 20, the communication unit 224 also communicates various information with the component mounting device.

[0048] (control unit 226) The control unit 226 controls the overall operation of the component management device 220. For example, the control unit 226 controls the display by the operation display unit 222, the communication by the communication unit 224, and the storage in the storage unit 223, based on the OS and operation panel application stored in the storage unit 223. In particular, in one embodiment of the present invention, the control unit 226 functions as a rule determination unit that determines one of the multiple storage rules stored in the storage unit 223 as the storage rule to be used, and also functions as a notification control unit that controls the execution of a guidance notification according to the storage rule to be used when storing electronic components to be stored.

[0049] <Storage rules> The configuration of the parts management device 220 according to one embodiment of the present invention has been described above. Next, the multiple storage rules, "free address," "per picking list," and "inventory mode (book order)," will be described.

[0050] "Free address" is a rule that allows a component reel P to be stored in any component storage section C (hereinafter, the component storage section C may also be referred to as a slot) of the storage unit 210. "Per picking list" is a rule that determines the range of slots for each picking list, and allows a component reel P to be stored freely within the range associated with the picking list to which the component reel P belongs. "Inventory mode (by ledger)" is a rule that determines the range of slots for each component type listed in the ledger, and allows a component reel P to be stored freely within the range associated with the component reel P. A detailed explanation of "per picking list" and "inventory mode (by ledger)" will be provided below.

[0051] (per picking list) FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a picking list. More specifically, FIG. 4 shows two picking lists (picking list A and picking list B). Each picking list is a list of one or more types of electronic components used to create a certain board. In the picking list, the required quantity may include the quantity of each electronic component required to create a unit number of boards (e.g., 100 pieces).

[0052] When the picking list shown in FIG. 4 is created and the storage rule in use is "per picking list," the storage state of the parts reels P in the storage unit 210 becomes, for example, the state shown in FIG.

[0053] FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the storage state of part reels P in the storage unit 210. In FIG. 5, the item name and remaining quantity of the part stored on each part reel P are written above the part reel P. As shown in FIG. 5, the part reels P of parts A-1 to A-5 included in picking list A are stored in slot range 63 for picking list A. Within slot range 63 for picking list A, the part reels P of parts A-1 to A-5 included in picking list A can be stored in any slot. Similarly, the part reels P of parts B-1 to B-5 included in picking list B are stored in slot range 64 for picking list B. Within slot range 64 for picking list B, the part reels P of parts B-1 to B-5 included in picking list B can be stored in any slot.

[0054] Furthermore, component reels P such as components C-1 and C-2 that are not included in any picking list are accommodated in a slot range 65 for components not included in any picking list. Furthermore, there may also be an empty slot range 66 that is not allocated to any picking list or for components not included in any picking list.

[0055] For each picking list, the control unit 226 may guide the worker by lighting up, as a guidance notification, the display element D of an empty slot within the range that can accommodate the component reel P to be stored, whose barcode has been read by the barcode reader 230. For example, when the barcode of the component reel P of component B-1 is read by the barcode reader 230, the control unit 226 may light up the display element Dx of an empty component storage unit Cx within the slot range 64 for the picking list B.

[0056] (Inventory mode (book order)) Fig. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a ledger. In the ledger, as shown in Fig. 6, the item names of a plurality of parts are arranged in order.

[0057] When a ledger such as that shown in FIG. 6 is created and the storage rule in use is "inventory mode (in ledger order)", the storage state of the part reels P in the storage unit 210 becomes, for example, the state shown in FIG.

[0058] 7 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the storage state of component reels P in the storage unit 210. As shown in FIG. 7, each component reel P is stored within a range associated with the component reel P. For example, the component reel P of component A-1 is stored in slot range 91 for component A-1, the component reel P of component A-2 is stored in slot range 92 for component A-2, the component reel P of component A-3 is stored in slot range 93 for component A-3, the component reel P of component A-4 is stored in slot range 94 for component A-4, and the component reel P of component A-5 is stored in slot range 95 for component A-5. Furthermore, the component reel P of component B-1 is accommodated in slot range 96 for component B-1, the component reel P of component B-2 is accommodated in slot range 97 for component B-2, the component reel P of component B-3 is accommodated in slot range 98 for component B-3, the component reel P of component B-4 is accommodated in slot range 99 for component B-4, and the component reel P of component B-5 is accommodated in slot range 100 for component B-5. In other words, adjacent slot ranges are associated with components that are consecutive in order in the ledger.

[0059] In the "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)", the control unit 226 may guide the worker by lighting up, as a guidance notification, the display element D of an empty slot within the range that can accommodate the component reel P to be stored, whose barcode has been read by the barcode reader 230. For example, when the barcode of the component reel P of component B-1 is read by the barcode reader 230, the control unit 226 may light up the display element Dy of an empty component storage unit Cy within the slot range 96 for component B-1.

[0060] (supplement) In the "free address" mode, the control unit 226 may not provide any special guidance notification, or may light up the display elements D of all vacant component storage units C as a guidance notification, or may light up one or more display elements D of the vacant component storage units C as a guidance notification.

[0061] In "By Picking List" and "Inventory Mode (By Ledger Order)", a situation may arise in which the range associated with the picking list to which the part reel P belongs or the part that the part reel P contains is already filled, making it impossible to store the part reel P in that range. In such a case, the control unit 226 may light up the display element D of an empty slot within the range that is not associated with any picking list or part as a guidance notification.

[0062] When the storage rule in use is switched to "per picking list" or "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)," the worker may remove all of the component reels P from the storage unit 210 once and then re-store the component reels P based on the guidance notification. Alternatively, the worker does not need to perform the above-described removal and re-storage. This is because even if the above-described removal and re-storage are not performed, the storage state in the storage unit 210 is considered to gradually approach a state in accordance with the storage rule in use as component reels P are removed and new component reels P are stored through normal use.

[0063] <Advance preparation> Now that the storage rules have been explained, the preparations for the operation of the component management system 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be explained.

[0064] The worker sets multiple storage rules and the like through various operation screens generated by the control unit 226 based on the functions of the operation panel application. First, the worker operates the application rule setting screen 40 shown in Fig. 8 to set the application rule setting that indicates how one or more storage rules will be applied.

[0065] (Applicable rule setting screen) FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the application rule setting screen 40. The worker selects the storage rule they want to apply by selecting button 41-a corresponding to "Free Address," button 41-b corresponding to "By Picking List," or button 41-c corresponding to "Inventory Mode (Book Order)." When the worker presses the OK button 49, the control unit 226 stores the application rule setting, including the storage rule set or changed by the worker as the default storage rule, in the memory unit 223, and terminates the display of the application rule setting screen 40. On the other hand, when the worker presses the cancel button 50, the control unit 226 terminates the display of the application rule setting screen 40 without storing the set or changed storage rule in the memory unit 223.

[0066] On the application rule setting screen 40, when the worker checks the button 44 "Specify storage rule by period," the period specification field 42-a, period specification field 42-b, period specification field 42-c, add button 43-a, add button 43-b, and add button 43-c become available.

[0067] The period specification field 42-a is a field for specifying the period for which the storage rule "free address" is applied. The period specification field 42-b is a field for specifying the period for which the storage rule "per picking list" is applied. The period specification field 42-c is a field for specifying the period for which the storage rule "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)" is applied.

[0068] When the worker presses the add button 43-a, the control unit 226 adds the period specified in the period specification field 42-a as a period to which the storage rule "free address" applies, as a rectangular area to the annual schedule 45. The pattern of the added rectangular area is the same as the pattern of the rectangular area to the right of the button 41-a corresponding to "free address."

[0069] Furthermore, when the worker presses the add button 43-b, the control unit 226 adds the period specified in the period specification field 42-b as a period to which the storage rule "per picking list" applies, as a rectangular area to the annual schedule 45. The pattern of the added rectangular area is the same as the pattern of the rectangular area to the right of the button 41-b corresponding to "per picking list."

[0070] Similarly, when the worker presses the add button 43-c, the control unit 226 adds the period specified in the period specification field 42-c as a period to which the storage rule "Inventory mode (bookkeeping order)" applies, as a rectangular area to the annual schedule 45. The pattern of the added rectangular area is the same as the pattern of the rectangular area to the right of the button 41-c corresponding to "Inventory mode (bookkeeping order)."

[0071] However, the storage rule of the selected button out of buttons 41-a, 41-b, and 41-c is set to the default storage rule in annual schedule 45, and therefore period specification field 42 and add button 43 corresponding to the selected button cannot be operated. In the example shown in Fig. 8, button 41-a is selected, and therefore period specification field 42-a and add button 43-a corresponding to button 41-a are grayed out, indicating that they cannot be operated.

[0072] The added rectangular area can be selected in the annual schedule 45. When a rectangular area is selected, the control unit 226 displays the storage rule and period for the selected rectangular area in the selected item information 47. When the delete selected item button 48 is pressed, the control unit 226 deletes the selected rectangular area from the annual schedule 45.

[0073] When the worker presses the OK button 49, the control unit 226 stores the applicable rule settings, including the type of storage rule, whether or not the storage rule is specified by a period, and the period, in the memory unit 223, and terminates the display of the applicable rule setting screen 40. On the other hand, when the worker presses the cancel button 50, the control unit 226 does not store the applicable rule settings in the memory unit 223, and terminates the display of the applicable rule setting screen 40.

[0074] (Storage range specification screen for each picking list) Next, an example of a screen for specifying a slot range associated with each picking list in the storage rule "per picking list" will be described.

[0075] 9 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of a storage range specification screen for each picking list. On the storage range specification screen for each picking list, the worker selects a picking list for which the worker wants to specify a storage range from a picking list selection list 71.

[0076] The worker also specifies the direction in which the storage range is specified in the direction specification setting 72. The direction specification setting 72 includes a schematic diagram of the storage unit 210 and two arrows pointing to the storage unit 210. If component reels P can be stored on both the right side (front side) and the left side (back side) of the storage unit 210, the worker specifies the front side or the back side in the direction specification setting 72. Figure 9 shows an example in which the front side is specified by selecting the arrow pointing to the front side.

[0077] Next, the worker specifies a section in section specification 73 from the direction specified in direction specification setting 72 as the slot range for the picking list specified in picking list selection list 71. In the example shown in Figure 9, the upper, middle, and lower shelves are each divided into three sections, and the worker can specify any one of these sections. However, the number of shelves and the number of sections per shelf are not limited to the above example.

[0078] When the worker specifies a rectangle indicating a section, the control unit 226 applies the fill pattern of the rectangle at the left end of the picking list specified in the picking list selection list 71 to the unit rectangle, thereby indicating that a picking list with the same pattern has been applied.

[0079] The worker can also release or adjust each section. For example, when the worker selects one of the sections and selects the release button 74 (release the selected range), the control unit 226 can return the section to the "(unset)" state. When the worker selects one of the sections and selects the adjust button 75, the control unit 226 generates a storage range adjustment screen 80 and displays the storage range adjustment screen 80 on the operation display unit 222.

[0080] 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the storage range adjustment screen 80. As shown in FIG. 10, the storage range adjustment screen 80 includes an item designation field 87, a tier designation field 81, a section designation field 82, a start slot designation field 83, an end slot designation field 88, an OK button 85, and a cancel button 86. The range of the picking list displayed in the item designation field 87 is specified as the slot designated in the start slot designation field 83 to the slot designated in the end slot designation field 88 in the section designated in the tier designation field 81 and the section designation field 82.

[0081] After adjusting the input contents on the storage range adjustment screen 80, if the worker presses the OK button 85, the adjustment results will be reflected on the storage range designation screen 70 for each picking list. If the worker presses the cancel button 86, the adjustment results will not be reflected on the storage range designation screen 70 for each picking list.

[0082] Thereafter, when the worker presses the OK button 76 on the storage range designation screen 70 for each picking list, the control unit 226 stores the contents set or adjusted on the storage range designation screen 70 and the storage range adjustment screen 80 in the memory unit 223 as the storage rule settings for the storage rule "for each picking list," and terminates the display of the storage range designation screen 70. On the other hand, when the worker presses the cancel button 77, the control unit 226 does not store the contents set or adjusted on the storage range designation screen 70 and the storage range adjustment screen 80 in the memory unit 223, and terminates the display of the storage range designation screen 70.

[0083] (Inventory mode (book order)) In the storage rule "inventory mode (book order)," it is also possible to specify the slots associated with each component on a storage range specification screen for each component type, which the control unit 226 generates based on the functions of the operation panel application. The storage range specification screen for each component type has a screen configuration similar to the storage range specification screen 70 for each picking list, except that the list located in the upper left corner of the screen is a list of component types in the ledger. The other contents and operation methods are generally the same as those described for the storage range specification screen 70 for each picking list, so detailed explanations will be omitted here. In the storage range adjustment screen 80, the items listed in the item specification field 87 change from picking list types to component types in the ledger. However, in the "inventory mode (book order)," adjustments that would cause the order of components in the ledger and the arrangement of slot ranges to not match are prohibited.

[0084] <Operation> Next, a description will be given of the operation of the component management system 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The operation of the component management system 20 described below is executed when the above-mentioned advance preparations have been completed.

[0085] (Operation overview) First, with reference to FIG. 11, an outline of the operation of the component management system 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0086] 11 is a flowchart showing an outline of the operation of component management system 20 according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 11, first, control unit 226 causes operation display unit 222 to display a storage screen based on the function of the operation panel application (S1).

[0087] Next, the worker scans the barcode on the parts reel P with the barcode reader 230 (S2). Based on the function of the operation panel application, the control unit 226 recognizes information about the type of parts on the parts reel P and information about the remaining number of parts from the character string read from the barcode.

[0088] Then, the control unit 226 performs a process of determining a storage rule to be used based on the information recognized in the process S2 (S3). The process of determining a storage rule to be used will be described later with reference to FIG.

[0089] Thereafter, processing is executed according to the storage rule in use (S4). For example, if the storage rule in use is "free address" (S4 / free address), processing described later with reference to Fig. 13 is executed (S5). If the storage rule in use is "per picking list" (S4 / per picking list), processing described later with reference to Fig. 14 is executed (S6). If the storage rule in use is "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)" (S4 / inventory mode (bookkeeping order)), processing described later with reference to Fig. 16 is executed (S7).

[0090] (Decision process for storage rules) 12 is a flowchart showing the process of determining the storage rule to be used. First, the control unit 226 acquires a default storage rule from the applied rule settings stored in the storage unit 223, and sets the default storage rule as a candidate for determination (S101).

[0091] Next, the control unit 226 acquires whether or not "Specify storage rule by period" is enabled from the applied rule settings (S102).

[0092] If "Specify storage rule by period" is not enabled (S103 / No), the control unit 226 determines the default storage rule that was selected as a candidate for determination in S101 as the storage rule to be used, and ends this process.

[0093] On the other hand, if "Specify storage rule by period" is enabled (S103 / Yes), the control unit 226 acquires the current date and time from the OS (S104).

[0094] Next, the control unit 226 sequentially acquires the period items added to the annual schedule 45 from the applied rule setting (S105). If there is no period item (S105 / no item), the control unit 226 determines the default storage rule that was selected as a candidate for determination in S101 as the storage rule to be used, and ends this process.

[0095] On the other hand, if there is a period item added to the annual schedule 45 (S105 / Item exists), the control unit 226 determines whether the current date and time acquired in S104 is included in the period of the period item acquired in S105 (S106). If the current date and time acquired in S104 is not included in the period of the period item acquired in S105 (S106 / No), the processing from S105 is repeated. If the current date and time acquired in S104 is included in the period of the period item acquired in S105 (S106 / Yes), the storage rule of the acquired period item is determined to be the storage rule to be used, and this processing ends (S107).

[0096] (Free address storage) Next, the storage in the free address system shown in S5 of FIG. 11 will be described in more detail.

[0097] 13 is a flowchart showing storage in a free address system. An operator stores a component reel P in any available component storage section C of the storage unit 210 (S201). Then, the sensor E of the component storage section C in which the component reel P is stored detects that the component reel P has been stored (S202).

[0098] Next, the control unit 226 notifies the worker that the component reel P has been stored successfully by lighting up the display element D of the component storage unit C in which the component reel P is stored in a success pattern based on the function of the operation panel application (S203). The notification to the worker may be a buzzer sound or audio output indicating success.

[0099] Thereafter, the control unit 226 updates the storage reel information so that the information regarding the item of parts of the parts reel P and the information regarding the remaining number of parts already acquired in S2 shown in FIG. 11 are associated with the parts storage unit C in which the parts reel P is stored (S204).

[0100] (Storage according to picking list) Next, the storage according to the picking list shown in S6 of FIG. 11 will be described in more detail.

[0101] Fig. 14 is a flowchart showing storage for each picking list. The control unit 226 checks all target picking lists to see if the item of the parts of the parts reel P (the parts reel P to be stored) already acquired in S2 shown in Fig. 11 is included in the picking list (S301). If the item of the parts of the parts reel P to be stored is not included in any picking list (S301 / No), the control unit 226 applies the picking list exclusion rule (S302).

[0102] On the other hand, if the item of the parts on the parts reel P to be stored is included in any of the picking lists (S301 / Yes), the control unit 226 checks whether there is one picking list that includes the item of the parts on the parts reel P to be stored (S303). If there is one picking list that includes the item of the parts on the parts reel P to be stored (S303 / Yes), the control unit 226 applies the corresponding picking list (S304).

[0103] On the other hand, if there are two or more picking lists that include the item of parts of the parts reel P to be stored (S303 / No), the control unit 226 causes the operation display unit 222 to display the picking list selection screen 51 (S305).

[0104] Fig. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a specific example of the picking list selection screen 51. As shown in Fig. 15, the picking list selection screen 51 includes a selection list 52 including selection items such as "Not subject to picking list," "Picking list A," and "Picking list B," and an OK button 53.

[0105] When the worker selects one of the selection items from the selection list 52 on the picking list selection screen 51 and presses the OK button 53 (S306), the control unit 226 applies the picking list corresponding to the selected selection item (S307).

[0106] Thereafter, the control unit 226 acquires range information of the applied picking list from the storage rule settings (S308). Next, the control unit 226 identifies an empty component storage unit C within the range indicated by the acquired range information by referring to the storage reel information, and lights up the display element D of the component storage unit C as a guidance notification based on the function of the operation panel application (S309).

[0107] The worker stores the component reel P in the component storage unit C in response to the lighting of the display element D (S310). When the sensor E detects the storage of the component reel P, information indicating the component storage unit C in which the sensor E is installed is output to the control unit 226. Upon receiving the information, the control unit 226 turns off the display element D based on the function of the operation panel application.

[0108] Furthermore, the control unit 226 determines whether the component storage unit C in which the component reel P is stored is an empty component storage unit C within the range indicated by the range information of the picking list (S311). If the component storage unit C in which the component reel P is stored is an empty component storage unit C within the range indicated by the range information of the picking list (S311 / Yes), the control unit 226 notifies the worker that the component reel P has been stored successfully by lighting up the display element D of the component storage unit C in which the component reel P is stored in a success pattern based on the function of the operation panel application (S312). Thereafter, the control unit 226 updates the storage reel information so that the information on the component item of the component reel P and the information on the remaining number of components acquired in S2 shown in FIG. 11 are associated with the component storage unit C in which the component reel P is stored (S313).

[0109] On the other hand, if the component storage unit C storing the component reel P is another component storage unit C (S311 / No), the control unit 226 notifies the operator of the occurrence of an error by lighting up the display element D of the component storage unit C storing the component reel P in an error pattern based on the function of the operation panel application (S314). The error notification may be a buzzer sound or audio output indicating the error. Upon receiving the notification of the occurrence of the error, the operator cancels the error and starts the process over from the beginning (S315).

[0110] (Storage in inventory mode) Next, the storage in the inventory mode (in book order) shown in S7 of FIG. 11 will be described in more detail.

[0111] 16 is a flowchart showing the storage in inventory mode (by ledger order). First, the control unit 226 checks whether the item of the parts of the parts reel P (the parts reel P to be stored) acquired in S2 shown in FIG. 11 is included in the ledger (S401).

[0112] If the item of the parts on the parts reel P to be stored is not included in the ledger (S401 / No), the control unit 226 notifies the worker of the occurrence of an error, for example by lighting up the notification unit 216 in an error pattern based on the function of the operation panel application (S408). The error notification may be a buzzer sound or audio output indicating the error. Upon receiving the notification of the occurrence of the error, the worker resolves the error and starts the process over from the beginning (S409).

[0113] If the item of the parts of the parts reel P to be stored is included in the ledger (S401 / Yes), the control unit 226 acquires range information corresponding to the parts reel P to be stored from the storage rule settings (S402).

[0114] Next, the control unit 226 identifies an empty component storage section C within the range indicated by the range information corresponding to the component reel P by referring to the storage reel information, and based on the function of the operation panel application, lights up the display element D of the component storage section C as a guidance notification (S403).

[0115] The worker stores the component reel P in the component storage unit C in response to the lighting of the display element D (S404). When the sensor E detects the storage of the component reel P, information indicating the component storage unit C in which the sensor E is installed is output to the control unit 226. Upon receiving the information, the control unit 226 turns off the display element D based on the function of the operation panel application.

[0116] The control unit 226 then determines whether the component storage unit C in which the component reel P is stored is an empty component storage unit C within the range indicated by the range information corresponding to the component reel P (S405). If the component storage unit C in which the component reel P is stored is an empty component storage unit C within the range indicated by the range information corresponding to the component reel P (S405 / Yes), the control unit 226 notifies the worker that the component reel P has been stored successfully by lighting up the display element D of the component storage unit C in which the component reel P is stored in a success pattern based on the function of the operation panel application (S406). Thereafter, the control unit 226 updates the storage reel information so that the information on the component item and the information on the remaining number of components of the component reel P acquired in S2 shown in FIG. 11 are associated with the component storage unit C in which the component reel P is stored (S407).

[0117] On the other hand, if the component storage section C in which the component reel P is stored is another component storage section C (S405 / No), the process goes to S408.

[0118] <Action and effect> According to one embodiment of the present invention described above, a variety of operational effects can be obtained. According to one embodiment of the present invention, one of a plurality of storage rules is dynamically determined as the active storage rule, and a guidance notification for storing the component reels P is issued in accordance with the active storage rule. This improves the work efficiency of the worker. For example, by setting a period during which each of a plurality of storage rules is determined as the active storage rule, it is possible to realize the use of the active storage rule appropriate for each period.

[0119] The plurality of storage rules also includes a storage rule "free address." In the storage rule "free address," workers can store component reels P in any position.

[0120] The multiple storage rules also include a storage rule "per picking list." In the storage rule "per picking list," parts reels P that belong to the same picking list are stored in a grouped area. Therefore, in the storage rule "per picking list," the amount of movement that workers have to make when picking parts reels P is reduced, which can result in improved picking efficiency.

[0121] The plurality of storage rules also includes a storage rule "inventory mode (book order)." In the storage rule "inventory mode (book order)," each part reel P is stored in the order written in the ledger. Therefore, in the storage rule "inventory mode (book order)," the amount of movement of the worker during inventory is reduced, which can result in improved inventory efficiency.

[0122] For example, by setting the storage rule "free address" as the default storage rule and the storage rule "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)" as the storage rule to be applied during inventory, it is possible to improve both storage efficiency during normal times and the efficiency of inventory work.

[0123] Furthermore, according to one embodiment of the present invention, a storage range adjustment screen is generated that allows the range associated with each picking list and the range associated with each part in the ledger to be set based on operational input. With this configuration, it is possible to flexibly respond to the needs of workers regarding the storage range of each part.

[0124] <Modification> An embodiment of the present invention has been described above. Below, several modified examples of the above-described embodiment will be described. Note that each modified example described below may be applied alone to the above-described embodiment, or may be applied in combination with the above-described embodiment. Furthermore, each modified example may be applied in place of the configuration of the above-described embodiment, or may be applied in addition to the configuration of the above-described embodiment.

[0125] For example, the above describes an example in which a period is associated with the storage rule "per picking list" and the storage rule "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)", but a target time instead of a period may also be associated with the storage rule "per picking list" and the storage rule "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)".

[0126] In this case, the control unit 226 switches the storage rule in use so that the storage status of the storage unit 210 will be in accordance with either "per picking list" or "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)" at the target time. For example, if inventory is to begin on March 25th, March 25th may be associated with the "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)" as the target time. The control unit 226 then determines whether to switch to the "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)" based on the current storage status of the storage unit 210 and the target time. Specifically, the closer the current storage status of the storage unit 210 is to the storage status in the "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)," the more likely it is that the storage status of the storage unit 210 will become in accordance with the "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)" in a shorter time after switching to the "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)." Therefore, the closer the current storage state of the storage unit 210 is to the storage state in "inventory mode (book order)", the closer the control unit 226 may wait to switch to "inventory mode (book order)" until a point closer to the target time.

[0127] Furthermore, in the above example, the control unit 226 switches the storage rule in use depending on the current date and time. However, the control unit 226 may switch the storage rule in use depending on a manual operation by the operator.

[0128] <Hardware configuration> The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. Information processing, such as determining the usage and storage rules and controlling the guidance notification, is realized by a combination of software and hardware. Below, we will explain an example of a hardware configuration that can be applied to the component management device 220.

[0129] 17 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration 90. The hardware configuration 90 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 901, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 902, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 903, and a host bus 904. The hardware configuration 90 also includes a bridge 905, an external bus 906, an interface 907, an input device 908, a display device 909, an audio output device 910, a storage device (HDD) 911, a drive 912, and a network interface 915.

[0130] The CPU 901 functions as an arithmetic processing unit and control unit, and controls overall operation in accordance with various programs. The CPU 901 may also be a microprocessor. The ROM 902 stores programs used by the CPU 901, calculation parameters, etc. The RAM 903 temporarily stores programs used in the execution of the CPU 901, parameters that change as appropriate during the execution, etc. These are interconnected by a host bus 904 that includes a CPU bus, etc. The functions of the control unit 226 can be realized by the cooperation of the CPU 901, ROM 902, RAM 903, and software.

[0131] The host bus 904 is connected to an external bus 906, such as a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect / Interface) bus, via a bridge 905. It is not necessary to configure the host bus 904, bridge 905, and external bus 906 separately, and these functions may be implemented on a single bus.

[0132] The input device 908 is composed of input means such as a mouse, keyboard, touch panel, buttons, microphone, sensors, switches, and levers that allow the user to input information, and an input control circuit that generates an input signal based on the user's input and outputs it to the CPU 901. By operating the input device 908, the user can input various data and instruct processing operations.

[0133] The display device 909 includes, for example, a display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) device, a projector device, an OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) device, a lamp, etc. The audio output device 910 includes an audio output device such as a speaker and a headphone.

[0134] The storage device 911 is a data storage device configured as an example of a storage unit according to this embodiment. The storage device 911 may include a storage medium, a recording device that records data on the storage medium, a reading device that reads data from the storage medium, and a deleting device that deletes data recorded on the storage medium. The storage device 911 is configured, for example, by an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive), or a memory having equivalent functions. This storage device 911 drives storage and stores programs executed by the CPU 901 and various data.

[0135] The drive 912 is a reader / writer for a storage medium, and is built into or externally attached to the hardware configuration 90. The drive 912 reads information recorded on a removable storage medium 84, such as an attached magnetic disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or semiconductor memory, and outputs the information to the RAM 903 or the storage device 911. The drive 912 can also write information to the removable storage medium 84.

[0136] The network interface 915 is, for example, a communication interface configured with a communication device for connecting to the network 12. The network interface 915 may be a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) compatible communication device or a wired communication device that performs wired communication.

[0137] <Supplementary information> Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings, the present invention is not limited to these examples. It is clear that a person skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains can conceive of various modifications and alterations within the scope of the technical ideas set forth in the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0138] For example, although an example in which one storage shelf is used as the storage unit 210 has been described above, one embodiment of the present invention can also be applied to a case in which multiple storage shelves are used.

[0139] Although three storage rules have been described above, more storage rules may be used, or only two storage rules may be used. Furthermore, storage rules other than the above-mentioned "free address," "per picking list," and "inventory mode (bookkeeping order)" may also be used.

[0140] Furthermore, the steps in the processing of the component management system 20 in this specification do not necessarily have to be processed in chronological order according to the order described in the flowchart. For example, the steps in the processing of the component management system 20 may be processed in an order different from the order described in the flowchart, or may be processed in parallel.

[0141] It is also possible to create a computer program that causes hardware such as the CPU, ROM, and RAM built into component management system 20 to perform functions equivalent to those of the components of component management system 20 described above. A non-transitory storage medium on which the computer program is stored is also provided.

[0142] Furthermore, the functions of the component management device 220 described above may be implemented in a single housing, or may be distributed across multiple housings. When the functions are implemented in a single housing, the device having that housing may correspond to the component management device 220. When the functions are distributed across multiple housings, one or a combination of two or more of the multiple devices having the respective housings may correspond to the component management device 220. When the functions are distributed across multiple housings, an interface for inputting and outputting information between the devices having the respective housings is also implemented. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 10 Upper System 20 Parts Management System 210 Storage Unit 216 Notification Department 220 Parts management device 222 Operation display section 223 Storage section 224 Communications Department 226 Control Unit 230 Barcode Reader

Claims

1. a storage unit configured to store a plurality of storage rules for electronic components to be stored in a storage unit having a plurality of component storage sections; a rule determination unit that determines one of the plurality of storage rules as a storage rule to be used; a notification control unit that controls execution of a guidance notification in accordance with the storage rule when storing the electronic component to be stored; A parts management device comprising:

2. the storage unit stores the plurality of storage rules in association with a period, The parts management device according to claim 1 , wherein the rule determination unit determines, as the storage rule to be used, a storage rule associated with a period to which the current date and time belongs.

3. 3. The component management device according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of storage rules include a first storage rule indicating that the electronic component to be stored can be stored in any of the component storage units.

4. the storage unit stores a list of one or more types of electronic components in association with a range of component storage units; 4. The component management device according to claim 3, wherein the plurality of storage rules include a second storage rule indicating that the electronic component to be stored can be stored in a component storage unit within a range associated with a list to which the electronic component to be stored belongs.

5. 5. The parts management device according to claim 4, wherein the notification control unit controls execution of a notification indicating a part storage unit within a range associated with a list to which the electronic part to be stored belongs in the second storage rule.

6. The parts management device according to claim 5 , wherein the notification control unit generates a display screen on which a range of part storage units associated with each of the lists of the one or more types of electronic parts can be set based on an operation input.

7. the storage unit stores the range of the component storage unit in association with each electronic component included in the ledger used in the inventory; 7. The component management device according to claim 6, wherein the plurality of storage rules include a third storage rule indicating that the electronic component to be stored can be stored in a component storage unit within a range associated with the electronic component to be stored.

8. The parts management device according to claim 7 , wherein the notification control unit controls execution of a notification indicating a part storage unit within a range associated with the electronic part to be stored in the third storage rule.

9. 9. The parts management device according to claim 8, wherein said storage unit stores electronic parts that are consecutive in order in said ledger in association with the range of adjacent parts storage units.

10. The parts management device according to claim 9 , wherein the notification control unit generates a display screen on which a range of part storage units associated with each of the electronic parts included in the ledger can be set based on an operation input.

11. 11. The parts management device according to claim 2, wherein the notification control unit generates a display screen on which a period associated with each of the plurality of storage rules can be set based on an operation input.

12. the storage unit stores the second storage rule or the third storage rule in association with a target time, 8. The parts management device according to claim 7, wherein the rule determination unit determines whether to switch to the second storage rule or the third storage rule depending on the target time and the current storage state of the electronic parts in the storage unit.

13. Computer, a storage unit configured to store a plurality of storage rules for electronic components to be stored in a storage unit having a plurality of component storage sections; a rule determination unit that determines one of the plurality of storage rules as a storage rule to be used; a notification control unit that controls execution of a guidance notification in accordance with the storage rule when storing the electronic component to be stored; A program to function as a

14. Storing a plurality of storage rule settings for electronic components to be stored in a storage unit having a plurality of component storage sections; determining one of the plurality of storage rules as a storage rule to be used; When storing the electronic components to be stored, control execution of a guidance notification in accordance with the storage rule to be used; A computer-implemented method comprising:

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