Processing device, processing method, and processing program

Abstract

To reduce a burden on a user, associated with adjustment of a printing parameter of a laser marker.SOLUTION: A processing device 100 comprises: an acquisition part 151 that acquires a first grade value regarding cell modulation of a two-dimensional code printed on a workpiece, subjected to surface preparation by a laser marker 200, by the laser marker 200; a determination part 152 that determines a first correction value of a first printing parameter of the surface preparation, when the first grade value is lower than a threshold; and a transmission part 153 that transmits the first correction value to the laser marker 200.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a processing device, a processing method, and a processing program for assisting in the adjustment of printing parameters of a laser marker. [Background technology]

[0002] Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. 2018-89646 (Patent Document 1) discloses a laser marker (two-dimensional code marking device) that prints a two-dimensional code on the surface of a workpiece. In the following description, a workpiece refers to an object to be processed on a production line. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-89646 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] To print a 2D code that can be read by a code reader, it is necessary to properly adjust the printing parameters of the laser marker. However, adjusting the printing parameters requires experience, and the work of adjusting the printing parameters has been a burden on the user.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to reduce the burden on users associated with adjusting the printing parameters of a laser marker. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A processing device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes an acquisition unit that acquires a first grade value related to cell modulation of a two-dimensional code printed by a laser marker on a workpiece that has undergone base treatment by the laser marker, a determination unit that determines a first correction value of a first printing parameter of the base treatment when the first grade value is less than a threshold value, and a transmission unit that transmits the first correction value to the laser marker.

[0007] According to this configuration, correction values ​​for the printing parameters of the base treatment by the laser marker are output, thereby reducing the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker.

[0008] In the above disclosure, preferably, the first printing parameter is a first printing power, and the first correction value is a value that strengthens the first printing power.

[0009] According to this configuration, a correction value for the printing power in the base treatment is output, which reduces the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker.

[0010] In the above disclosure, preferably, the first printing parameter is a first processing speed, and the first correction value is a value that slows down the first processing speed.

[0011] According to this configuration, a correction value for the processing speed in the base treatment is output, which reduces the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker.

[0012] In the above disclosure, preferably, the acquisition unit further acquires a second grade value related to cell contrast of the two-dimensional code. If the second grade value is less than a threshold, the determination unit determines a second correction value for a second printing parameter of the two-dimensional code. The transmission unit transmits the second correction value to the laser marker.

[0013] This configuration outputs correction values ​​for the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code, thereby reducing the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker.

[0014] In the above disclosure, preferably, the second printing parameter is a second printing power, and the second correction value is a value that strengthens the second printing power.

[0015] This configuration outputs a correction value for the printing power when printing a two-dimensional code, thereby reducing the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker.

[0016] In the above disclosure, preferably, the processing device further includes a change unit that changes the threshold value in response to a user input.

[0017] According to this configuration, the threshold value can be changed to a value desired by the user.

[0018] A processing method according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes obtaining a first grade value related to cell modulation of a two-dimensional code printed by a laser marker on a workpiece that has undergone surface preparation by the laser marker, and if the first grade value is less than a threshold value, determining a first correction value for a first printing parameter of the surface preparation, and transmitting the first correction value to the laser marker.

[0019] According to this configuration, correction values ​​for the printing parameters of the base treatment by the laser marker are output, thereby reducing the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker.

[0020] A processing program according to another aspect of the present disclosure causes one or more computers to execute the above-described processing method.

[0021] According to this configuration, correction values ​​for the printing parameters of the base treatment by the laser marker are output, thereby reducing the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to reduce the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of a laser marker. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing system including a processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a processing device 100. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an outline of processing performed by the processing system 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 illustrates an example of a user interface. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a table 92. [Figure 6] 1 is a first diagram showing an example of correction of printing parameters of the laser marker 200. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a second diagram showing an example of correction of the printing parameters of the laser marker 200. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for saving history information. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a procedure for a process of determining a correction value. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a procedure for processing to output a user interface 51. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] Hereinafter, embodiments and modifications according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. Note that the embodiments and modifications described below may be selectively combined as appropriate.

[0025] [Embodiment] <A. Application Example> Referring to FIG. 1, an overview of a processing system including a processing apparatus according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a processing system including a processing apparatus according to this embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the processing system 1 includes a processing apparatus 100, a laser marker 200, a verifier 300, a code reader 400, a display device 500, and an input device 600. The processing system 1 is provided at a production site such as a factory.

[0026] In order from the upstream of the production line 10 in a certain factory, a laser marker 200, a verifier 300, and a code reader 400 are arranged. The workpiece 5 is conveyed on the production line 10 in the direction of arrow 2.

[0027] The laser marker 200 performs surface preparation on the workpiece 5 transported on the production line 10. Surface preparation involves irradiating the workpiece 5 with a laser beam 3 to smooth the surface of the workpiece 5. Surface preparation affects the reflectance of the white and black cells in the two-dimensional code. More specifically, the surface of the workpiece 5 is smoothed by performing surface preparation on the workpiece 5. Therefore, the reflectance of the white and black cells in a two-dimensional code printed in a surface-prepared area is more stable than the reflectance of the white and black cells in a two-dimensional code printed in an unprepared area. The reflectance of the white and black cells significantly affects the printing quality of the two-dimensional code. For example, a decrease in the difference between the average reflectance of the white cells and the average reflectance of the black cells reduces the cell contrast of the two-dimensional code. Furthermore, variations in at least one of the reflectance of the white cells and the reflectance of the black cells deteriorate the cell modulation of the two-dimensional code. At least one of a decrease in cell contrast and a deterioration in cell modulation reduces the print quality of the two-dimensional code. However, if a surface treatment is performed on the workpiece 5 and a two-dimensional code is printed in the surface-treated area, the reflectance of the white and black cells in the two-dimensional code will be stable. When the reflectance of the white and black cells in the two-dimensional code is stabilized, variation in the reflectance of the white and black cells can be suppressed. Furthermore, when the reflectance of the white and black cells in the two-dimensional code is stabilized, the difference between the average reflectance of the white cells and the average reflectance of the black cells can be suppressed from becoming small. Therefore, surface treatment is an important process that determines the print quality of the two-dimensional code.

[0028] After the base treatment, the laser marker 200 irradiates the base treated area (base 9) with laser light 3 to print a code 8 in the area. The code 8 is a two-dimensional code. The two-dimensional code is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark) or a Data Matrix (registered trademark).

[0029] The laser marker 200 transmits the printing parameters for the base treatment of the workpiece 5, the printing parameters for the code 8, and the identification information of the workpiece 5 to the processing device 100. The identification information of the workpiece 5 is, for example, number information indicating the order in which the workpiece has been transported.

[0030] The verification machine 300 photographs the code 8 printed on the workpiece 5 and inspects the print quality of the code 8. More specifically, the verification machine 300 inspects the code 8 for multiple inspection items to evaluate the print quality of the 2D code. These inspection items include, for example, whether the 2D code can be decoded, the cell contrast of the 2D code, the cell modulation of the 2D code, the minimum reflectance of the 2D code, damage to the fixed pattern of the 2D code, non-uniformity of the axis of the 2D code, non-uniformity of the grid of the 2D code, the rate at which error correction codes are not used during decoding, and damage to the format information of the 2D code. The cell contrast of the 2D code is evaluated based on the difference between the average reflectance of black cells and the average reflectance of white cells. The greater the difference between the average reflectance of black cells and the average reflectance of white cells, the higher the grade of the cell contrast of the 2D code. As an example, an index defined by an international standard may be used as the cell contrast of a 2D code. The cell modulation of a two-dimensional code is an inspection item used to evaluate whether there is any variation in the reflectance of white cells and black cells. The more uniform the reflectance, the higher the grade of the cell modulation of the two-dimensional code. As an example, an index defined by an international standard may be used as the cell modulation of a two-dimensional code. The verifier 300 calculates multiple grade values ​​for the code 8 corresponding to multiple inspection items. The verifier 300 also calculates an overall grade value for the code 8. The overall grade value is the smallest grade value among the multiple grade values ​​corresponding to the multiple inspection items.

[0031] In the following explanation, the overall grade value and multiple grade values ​​corresponding to multiple inspection items for a certain two-dimensional code are collectively referred to as “grade information.” The verification machine 300 transmits the inspection date and time, the grade information, and the identification information of the workpiece 5 to the processing device 100.

[0032] The code reader 400 reads the code 8 printed on the workpiece 5. The code reader 400 transmits the reading time of the code 8 and the identification information of the workpiece 5 to the processing device 100. The reading time of the code 8 is the time taken for the code reader 400 to read the code 8.

[0033] When the next workpiece of the workpiece 5 is conveyed, the laser marker 200, the verification machine 300, and the code reader 400 perform processing on the next workpiece in the same manner as when the workpiece 5 is conveyed. Thus, in the processing system 1, the verification machine 300 calculates the grade value for the two-dimensional code in the order in which the laser marker 200 prints the two-dimensional code. Also, in the processing system 1, the code reader 400 reads the two-dimensional code in the order in which the laser marker 200 prints the two-dimensional code.

[0034] The processing device 100 determines a correction value for the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 based on the grade information acquired from the verification machine 300. More specifically, when the grade value regarding the cell modulation of the code 8 is less than the threshold value, the processing device 100 determines a correction value for the printing parameters of the undercoat processing by the laser marker 200. The processing device 100 transmits the correction value to the laser marker 200.

[0035] The laser marker 200 corrects the printing parameters of the undercoat processing based on the correction value received from the processing device 100. Thus, according to the processing system 1, the printing parameters of the undercoat processing by the laser marker 200 are automatically adjusted. Therefore, according to the processing device 100, the burden on the user associated with the adjustment of the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 is reduced.

[0036] <B. Hardware Configuration of Processing Device 100> The hardware configuration of the processing device 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the processing device 100. As shown in Fig. 2, the processing device 100 includes, for example, a processor 101, a memory 102, a storage 103, an input interface 104, a display interface 105, and communication interfaces 106, 107, and 108.

[0037] The processor 101 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor 101 reads out a program 113 stored in a storage 103, loads it into a memory 102, and executes it.

[0038] The memory 102 is configured as a volatile storage device such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or a static random access memory (SRAM).

[0039] The storage 103 is configured by a non-volatile storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or a flash memory.

[0040] The storage 103 stores a program 113. The program 113 includes a plurality of computer-readable instructions for controlling the processing device 100. The program 113 includes a "processing program" in this disclosure. By executing the program 113, the processor 101 controls each unit of the processing device 100 and realizes various processes according to this embodiment.

[0041] Program 113 may be provided not as a single program but as part of any program. In this case, processing according to the present embodiment is realized in cooperation with any program. Even a program that does not include such a part of the module does not deviate from the gist of the processing apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment. Further, part or all of the functions provided by program 113 may be realized by dedicated hardware.

[0042] Storage 103 further stores the setting information 114 specified via the input device 600. Further, storage 103 further stores the history information 115.

[0043] Input interface 104 receives an operation signal corresponding to the operation received by input device 600 from input device 600. Input interface 104 transmits the operation signal to processor 101. Input device 600 includes a mouse and may further include a keyboard. Alternatively, input device 600 may include a touch panel.

[0044] Display interface 105 transmits screen data indicating a screen (user interface) to be displayed on display device 500 to display device 500 according to an instruction from processor 101. Display device 500 includes a display.

[0045] Communication interface 106 exchanges data with laser marker 200. Communication interface 107 exchanges data with verifier 300. Communication interface 108 exchanges data with code reader 400.

[0046] <C. Outline of Processing of Processing System 1> Referring to FIG. 3, the outline of the processing of processing system 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the outline of the processing of processing system 1.

[0047] The processing system 1 includes a processing device 100, a laser marker 200, a verification device 300, a code reader 400, a display device 500, and an input device 600.

[0048] The laser marker 200 performs a surface preparation process on a workpiece transported on the production line 10 (see FIG. 1) and prints a two-dimensional code in the surface-prepared area. The laser marker 200 transmits printing parameters for the surface preparation process, printing parameters for the two-dimensional code, and identification information for the workpiece to the processing device 100. The printing parameters for the surface preparation process are an example of "first printing parameters" in this disclosure. The printing parameters for the two-dimensional code are an example of "second printing parameters" in this disclosure.

[0049] The verification machine 300 photographs the two-dimensional code printed on the workpiece transported on the production line 10 and inspects the printing quality of the two-dimensional code. More specifically, the verification machine 300 calculates grade information. The verification machine 300 transmits the inspection date and time, the grade information (grade value), and the workpiece identification information to the processing device 100.

[0050] The code reader 400 reads the two-dimensional code printed on the workpiece transported on the production line 10. The code reader 400 transmits to the processing device 100 the time it took to read the two-dimensional code (reading time) and the identification information of the workpiece.

[0051] The processing device 100 includes an acquisition unit 151, a determination unit 152, a transmission unit 153, an output unit 154, a change unit 155, and a storage 103. The acquisition unit 151, the determination unit 152, the transmission unit 153, the output unit 154, and the change unit 155 are realized by a processor 101 (see FIG. 2) that executes a program 113 (see FIG. 2).

[0052] The acquisition unit 151 acquires from the laser marker 200 the printing parameters for the base treatment, the printing parameters for the two-dimensional code, and the workpiece identification information.

[0053] The acquisition unit 151 acquires the inspection date and time, grade information, and workpiece identification information from the verification machine 300. The grade information includes a grade value related to the success or failure of decoding the two-dimensional code, a grade value related to the cell contrast of the two-dimensional code, a grade value related to the cell modulation of the two-dimensional code, a grade value related to the minimum reflectance of the two-dimensional code, a grade value related to damage to the fixed pattern of the two-dimensional code, a grade value related to the non-uniformity of the axis of the two-dimensional code, a grade value related to the non-uniformity of the lattice of the two-dimensional code, a grade value related to the unused rate of error correction codes when decoding the two-dimensional code, a grade value related to damage to the format information of the two-dimensional code, and an overall grade value of the two-dimensional code. The grade value related to the cell contrast of the two-dimensional code is an example of a "second grade value" in this disclosure. The grade value related to the cell modulation of the two-dimensional code is an example of a "first grade value" in this disclosure.

[0054] The acquisition unit 151 acquires the reading time of the two-dimensional code and the workpiece identification information from the code reader 400.

[0055] The acquisition unit 151 stores the information acquired from the laser marker 200, the verification device 300, and the code reader 400 as history information 115 in the storage 103.

[0056] If the grade value related to cell modulation acquired by the acquisition unit 151 is less than a threshold value, the determination unit 152 determines a correction value for the printing parameters of the base treatment performed by the laser marker 200. The correction value for the printing parameters of the base treatment performed by the laser marker 200 is an example of a "first correction value" in the present disclosure. The threshold value is specified on a user interface 51 (see FIG. 4 ), which will be described later, and is saved in the storage 103 as setting information 114. The threshold value is compared with each of a plurality of evaluation results to determine whether to correct at least one of the printing parameters of the base treatment and the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code. The plurality of evaluation results will be described later. In the following description, the threshold value compared with each of the plurality of evaluation results to determine whether to correct at least one of the printing parameters of the base treatment and the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code will be referred to as a "threshold value for determining whether to correct the printing parameters of the laser marker 200" or simply as a "threshold value."

[0057] As an example, the printing parameter for base processing is the printing power for base processing. The printing power for base processing is an example of the "first printing power" in this disclosure. The correction value for the printing parameter for base processing is a value that strengthens the printing power for base processing. For example, the correction value for the printing parameter for base processing is a value that increases the printing power for base processing by 10 (plus 10).

[0058] As another example, the printing parameter for the base treatment is the processing speed for the base treatment. The processing speed for the base treatment is an example of the "first processing speed" in this disclosure. The correction value for the printing parameter for the base treatment is a value that slows down the processing speed for the base treatment.

[0059] If the grade value related to the cell contrast acquired by the acquisition unit 151 is less than the threshold value, the determination unit 152 determines a correction value for the printing parameter of the two-dimensional code. The correction value for the printing parameter of the two-dimensional code is an example of a "second correction value" in the present disclosure.

[0060] As an example, the printing parameter of the two-dimensional code is the printing power when printing the two-dimensional code. The printing power when printing the two-dimensional code is an example of the "second printing power" in this disclosure. The correction value of the printing parameter of the two-dimensional code is a value that strengthens the printing power when printing the two-dimensional code. For example, the correction value of the printing parameter of the two-dimensional code is a value that increases the printing power when printing the two-dimensional code by 20 (plus 20).

[0061] As another example, the printing parameter of a two-dimensional code is the processing speed when printing the two-dimensional code, and the correction value of the printing parameter of the two-dimensional code is a value that slows down the processing speed when printing the two-dimensional code.

[0062] As another example, the printing parameter for a 2D code is the repetition frequency when printing the 2D code. The correction value for the printing parameter for a 2D code is the value by which the repetition frequency when printing the 2D code is increased. The repetition frequency indicates the number of pulses emitted by the laser per second. In other words, the repetition frequency is an index that indicates how quickly the laser emits pulses in succession.

[0063] When the determination unit 152 has determined the correction values ​​for the printing parameters for the base processing, the transmission unit 153 transmits the correction values ​​for the printing parameters for the base processing to the laser marker 200. When the determination unit 152 has determined the correction values ​​for the printing parameters for the two-dimensional code, the transmission unit 153 transmits the correction values ​​for the printing parameters for the two-dimensional code to the laser marker 200. In this way, the processing device 100 outputs the correction values ​​for the printing parameters for the base processing by the laser marker 200. This makes it possible to reduce the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker 200. Furthermore, the processing device 100 outputs the correction values ​​for the printing parameters for the two-dimensional code. This makes it possible to reduce the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker 200.

[0064] The laser marker 200 corrects the printing parameters based on the correction values ​​received from the processing device 100. More specifically, when the laser marker 200 receives correction values ​​for the printing parameters of the base processing from the processing device 100, the laser marker 200 corrects the printing parameters of the base processing based on the correction values. When the laser marker 200 receives correction values ​​for the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code from the processing device 100, the laser marker 200 corrects the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code based on the correction values.

[0065] The output unit 154 outputs a user interface 51 (see FIG. 4), which will be described later. The user interface 51 includes a graph 82 (see FIG. 4) of the inspection history. The output unit 154 creates the graph 82 based on the history information 115. The user interface 51 also includes a table 92 (see FIG. 5) of the inspection history. The output unit 154 creates the table 92 based on the history information 115.

[0066] The change unit 155 saves information specified on a user interface 51 (see FIG. 4 ), which will be described later, in the storage 103 as setting information 114. The setting information 114 includes a threshold value for determining whether or not to correct the printing parameters of the laser marker 200. That is, the change unit 155 changes the threshold value for determining whether or not to correct the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 in accordance with a user input to the user interface 51. By including the change unit 155 in the processing device 100, the threshold value can be changed to a value desired by the user.

[0067] <D.ユーザインターフェース> 4 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface 51. The user interface 51 is displayed on the display device 500 (see FIG. 3) and is operated by the user via the input device 600 (see FIG. 3).

[0068] The user interface 51 includes an area 61 and an area 71. The area 61 includes radio buttons 63 and 64, an input field 65, and a button 66.

[0069] Radio buttons 63 and 64 are used to specify whether or not to automatically correct the printing parameters of the laser marker 200. When radio button 63 is selected, the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 are not automatically corrected. On the other hand, when radio button 64 is selected, the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 are automatically corrected. The above-mentioned determination unit 152 (see FIG. 3) determines the correction values ​​when radio button 64 is selected.

[0070] The input field 65 is used to specify a threshold value for determining whether or not to correct the printing parameters of the laser marker 200. When the radio button 64 is selected, the change unit 155 (see FIG. 3) saves the value entered in the input field 65 in the storage 103 (see FIG. 3) as the threshold value for determining whether or not to correct the printing parameters of the laser marker 200.

[0071] When the button 66 is pressed, the change unit 155 saves the information specified on the user interface 51 as the setting information 114 in the storage 103 .

[0072] Area 71 displays the inspection results of multiple two-dimensional codes. Area 71 includes areas 72, 73, and 74. Area 72 displays a graph 82 of the inspection history or a table 92 of the inspection history (see FIG. 5). When tab 81 is selected, graph 82 is displayed in area 72. More specifically, when tab 81 is selected, output unit 154 (see FIG. 3) creates graph 82 based on history information 115 and transmits graph 82 to display device 500. On the other hand, when tab 91 is selected, table 92 is displayed in area 72.

[0073] Graph 82 shows multiple evaluation results corresponding to multiple two-dimensional codes in the order in which the multiple two-dimensional codes were read by code reader 400. Each of the multiple evaluation results represents the overall grade value of the corresponding one of the multiple two-dimensional codes. The order in which the multiple two-dimensional codes were read is the same as the order in which the multiple two-dimensional codes were printed by laser marker 200. Furthermore, the order in which the multiple two-dimensional codes were read is the same as the order in which the multiple overall grade values ​​corresponding to the multiple two-dimensional codes were calculated by verification machine 300.

[0074] The horizontal axis of the graph 82 is the time axis. The vertical axis on the left side of the graph 82 represents the overall grade value. The vertical axis on the right side of the graph 82 represents the time it takes for the code reader 400 to read the two-dimensional code.

[0075] Graph 82 includes line 83. Line 83 indicates multiple overall grade values ​​corresponding to multiple two-dimensional codes in the order in which the multiple two-dimensional codes are read by code reader 400. Marks on line 83 (black square marks in FIG. 4) indicate the overall grade values ​​of the two-dimensional codes corresponding to the marks. The number of marks on line 83 from when the overall grade value starts to drop until it recovers matches the number of two-dimensional codes printed from when the overall grade value starts to drop until it recovers. Therefore, the user can read from graph 82 the number of two-dimensional codes printed from when the overall grade value starts to drop until it recovers.

[0076] Graph 82 displays, superimposed on it, threshold values ​​for determining whether or not to correct the printing parameters of laser marker 200. That is, graph 82 displays, superimposed on it, threshold values ​​that are compared with each of the multiple evaluation results to determine whether or not to correct at least one of the printing parameters of the base treatment performed before printing a two-dimensional code and the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code. More specifically, graph 82 includes line 84. Line 84 indicates the threshold value that is compared with each of the multiple evaluation results to determine whether or not to correct at least one of the printing parameters of the base treatment performed before printing a two-dimensional code and the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code.

[0077] Graph 82 displays multiple reading times corresponding to multiple two-dimensional codes in an overlapping manner. Each of the multiple reading times represents the time it took for code reader 400 to read the corresponding two-dimensional code among the multiple two-dimensional codes. More specifically, graph 82 includes line 85. Line 85 shows multiple reading times corresponding to multiple two-dimensional codes in the order in which the multiple two-dimensional codes were read by code reader 400. Marks on line 85 (black circle marks in FIG. 4) indicate the reading times of the two-dimensional codes corresponding to the marks.

[0078] From line 83 in graph 82, the user can see the change in the print quality of multiple two-dimensional codes printed by laser marker 200. From line 85 in graph 82, the user can see the change in the reading time of multiple two-dimensional codes printed by laser marker 200.

[0079] Graph 82 includes star marks 86. Star marks 86 are an example of marks that indicate evaluation results of targets that satisfy predetermined conditions among a plurality of evaluation results. The shape of the marks that indicate evaluation results of targets that satisfy predetermined conditions among a plurality of evaluation results is not limited to a star shape, and may be any predetermined shape.

[0080] The predetermined conditions include at least a first condition that the evaluation result (total grade value) of the two-dimensional code is below a threshold. When a star mark 86 is displayed on the graph 82, the user can know that the evaluation result of the two-dimensional code is below the threshold.

[0081] The predetermined condition may include a first condition and a second condition. The second condition is a condition that the evaluation result (total grade value) matches at least one of the grade value related to cell modulation and the grade value related to cell contrast. When the predetermined condition includes the first condition and the second condition, a star mark 86 is displayed on the graph 82, so that the user can know that at least one of the grade value related to cell modulation and the grade value related to cell contrast is below the threshold.

[0082] If the predetermined conditions include the first condition and the second condition, and the setting is such that the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 are automatically corrected, the star mark 86 notifies the user that the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 have been corrected. Furthermore, the position of the star mark 86 enables the user to know the timing at which the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 have been corrected.

[0083] Graph 82 may further include star marks 87. Star marks 87 are an example of marks indicating the reading times of the two-dimensional codes corresponding to the evaluation results of the targets that satisfy a predetermined condition among the multiple evaluation results. Note that the shape of the marks indicating the reading times of the two-dimensional codes corresponding to the evaluation results of the targets that satisfy a predetermined condition among the multiple evaluation results is not limited to a star shape, and may be any predetermined shape.

[0084] Area 73 displays an image of the target 2D code corresponding to the evaluation result specified on the graph 82 among the multiple evaluation results. That is, the user interface 51 includes an image of the target 2D code corresponding to the evaluation result specified on the graph 82 among the multiple evaluation results. The image of the target 2D code is an image captured by the verification device 300 or the code reader 400. Area 74 displays the inspection result of the target 2D code corresponding to the evaluation result specified on the graph 82 among the multiple evaluation results. That is, the user interface 51 includes the inspection result of the target 2D code corresponding to the evaluation result specified on the graph 82 among the multiple evaluation results. The inspection result includes at least one of the time (inspection time) when the target 2D code was evaluated (inspected) by the verification device 300, information (read content) obtained by reading the target 2D code with the code reader 400, and the time (read time) required to read the target 2D code with the code reader 400. The inspection result may also include an overall grade value (evaluation result) of the target 2D code calculated by the verification device 300. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the inspection result includes the inspection time, the overall grade value (evaluation result), the reading content, and the reading time.

[0085] More specifically, when the user selects a black square mark on line 83, the color of the mark changes, an image of the target 2D code corresponding to the evaluation result indicated by the mark is displayed in area 73, and the inspection result of the target 2D code corresponding to the evaluation result indicated by the mark is displayed in area 74. As an example, if the color of the mark before being selected by the user was green, the color of the mark changes from green to yellow.

[0086] When the user selects star mark 86, an image of the two-dimensional code of the object corresponding to the evaluation result of the object indicated by star mark 86 is displayed in area 73, and the inspection result of the two-dimensional code of the object corresponding to the evaluation result of the object indicated by star mark 86 is displayed in area 74.

[0087] By looking at area 73, the user can check the image of the target 2D code corresponding to the evaluation result specified on graph 82. In addition, by looking at area 74, the user can check the inspection result of the target 2D code corresponding to the evaluation result specified on graph 82.

[0088] The user may select a black circle mark on line 85. When the user selects a black circle mark on line 85, the color of the mark changes, an image of the two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading time indicated by the mark is displayed in area 73, and the inspection result of the two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading time indicated by the mark is displayed in area 74. As an example, if the color of the mark before being selected by the user was purple, the color of the mark changes from purple to yellow.

[0089] The user may select star mark 87. When the user selects star mark 87, an image of the two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading time indicated by star mark 87 is displayed in area 73, and the inspection result of the two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading time indicated by star mark 87 is displayed in area 74.

[0090] By looking at area 73, the user can check the image of the two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading time specified on graph 82. In addition, by looking at area 74, the user can check the inspection results of the two-dimensional code corresponding to the reading time specified on graph 82.

[0091] Furthermore, by viewing the graph 82, the user can determine whether the threshold is appropriate. If the threshold is inappropriate, the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 will not be corrected at the appropriate time. For example, if the threshold is too low, the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 will not be corrected properly. As a result, many two-dimensional codes with poor print quality will be printed. Two-dimensional codes with poor print quality take a long time to be read by the code reader 400, causing business delays. Furthermore, two-dimensional codes with poor print quality may not be readable by the code reader 400, in which case the two-dimensional code must be printed again. This causes business delays. Therefore, in order to prevent business delays caused by failure to read two-dimensional codes or long times required to read two-dimensional codes, it is important to set an appropriate threshold. In response to this, the processing device 100 outputs the graph 82. A threshold for determining whether to correct the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 is superimposed on the graph 82. By looking at the graph 82, the user can determine whether the threshold is appropriate.

[0092] For example, if graph 82 indicates that many two-dimensional codes are printed between the time when the overall grade value starts to drop and the time when it recovers, the user can determine that the current threshold value is inappropriate. Also, by looking at graph 82, the user can determine how much the threshold value needs to be raised to quickly improve the print quality of the two-dimensional code. By quickly improving the print quality of the two-dimensional code, it is possible to prevent the code reader 400 from failing to read the two-dimensional code or taking too long to read the two-dimensional code. Therefore, the user can use graph 82 to estimate a threshold value that will prevent business interruptions caused by the code reader 400 failing to read the two-dimensional code or taking too long to read the two-dimensional code.

[0093] By changing the current threshold to a threshold estimated from graph 82, it is possible to prevent business disruptions caused by failure to read the 2D code or the time it takes to read the 2D code. In addition, because a threshold that will prevent business disruptions can be estimated from graph 82, the burden on users associated with setting a threshold is reduced.

[0094] <E.テーブル92> FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of table 92. Table 92 is displayed in area 72 (see FIG. 4) when tab 91 (see FIG. 4) is selected. More specifically, when tab 91 is selected, output unit 154 (see FIG. 3) creates table 92 based on history information 115 and transmits table 92 to display device 500. Table 92 includes inspection results of multiple two-dimensional codes. Table 92 includes, as inspection results of the two-dimensional codes, "time," "code power," "substrate power," "CC," "CM," "FG," "correction," "threshold," and "read time." The inspection results of multiple two-dimensional codes are arranged from the top of table 92 in chronological order of inspection date and time.

[0095] "Time" in Table 92 indicates the date and time the 2D code was inspected by the verification machine 300. "Code power" in Table 92 indicates the printing power used when the 2D code was printed. "Substrate power" in Table 92 indicates the printing power used in the substrate treatment performed before printing the 2D code. "CC" in Table 92 indicates the grade value related to the cell contrast of the 2D code. "CM" in Table 92 indicates the grade value related to the cell modulation of the 2D code. "FG" in Table 92 indicates the overall grade value of the 2D code.

[0096] "Correction" in Table 92 indicates whether at least one of the printing parameters of the base treatment and the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code is corrected before printing the two-dimensional code based on the inspection results. "Threshold" in Table 92 indicates the threshold for determining whether to correct the printing parameters of the laser marker 200. "Reading time" in Table 92 indicates the reading time of the two-dimensional code by the code reader 400.

[0097] <F. Example of Correction of Printing Parameters of Laser Marker 200> Referring to FIGS. 5 to 7, an example of correction of the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 will be described when the setting is such that the correction of the printing parameters of the laser marker 200 is automatically performed. As described above, when the grade value related to cell modulation is less than the threshold value, the determination unit 152 (see FIG. 3) determines the correction value of the printing parameters of the base treatment. Further, when the grade value related to cell contrast is less than the threshold value, the determination unit 152 determines the correction value of the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code.

[0098] Referring to FIG. 5, as the printing of the two-dimensional code by the laser marker 200 is repeated, the grade value related to cell modulation gradually decreases. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the threshold value is set to 3. In response to the grade value related to cell modulation falling below the threshold value of 3, the printing power in the base treatment is corrected. More specifically, until the grade value related to cell modulation becomes less than the threshold value, the printing power in the base treatment was set to 55%. However, in response to the grade value related to cell modulation becoming less than the threshold value, the printing power in the base treatment was corrected to 65%. As a result, the grade value related to cell modulation was improved to 4.

[0099] FIG. 6 is a first diagram showing an example of correction of printing parameters of the laser marker 200. Referring to FIG. 6, as the laser marker 200 repeatedly prints two-dimensional codes, the grade value for cell contrast gradually decreases. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the threshold value is set to 3. When the grade value for cell contrast falls below the threshold value of 3, the printing power used to print the two-dimensional code is corrected. More specifically, until the grade value for cell contrast fell below the threshold, the printing power used to print the two-dimensional code was set to 55%. However, when the grade value for cell contrast fell below the threshold, the printing power used to print the two-dimensional code was corrected to 75%. As a result, the grade value for cell contrast improved to 4.

[0100] Fig. 7 is a second diagram showing an example of correction of the printing parameters of the laser marker 200. Referring to Fig. 7, as the printing of two-dimensional codes is repeated by the laser marker 200, the grade values ​​related to cell modulation and cell contrast gradually decrease. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the threshold value is set to 3.

[0101] The printing power in the base treatment was corrected in response to the grade value for cell modulation falling below the threshold value of 3. More specifically, the printing power in the base treatment was set to 55% until the grade value for cell modulation fell below the threshold value. However, in response to the grade value for cell modulation falling below the threshold value, the printing power in the base treatment was corrected to 65%. As a result, the grade value for cell modulation was improved to 4.

[0102] Also, in response to the grade value related to cell contrast falling below the threshold value of 3, the printing power when printing the two-dimensional code is corrected. More specifically, until the grade value related to cell contrast becomes less than the threshold value, the printing power when printing the two-dimensional code was set to 55%. However, in response to the grade value related to cell contrast becoming less than the threshold value, the printing power when printing the two-dimensional code was corrected to 75%. As a result, the grade value related to cell contrast was improved to 4.

[0103] Note that an example was shown in which the printing power in the undercoat treatment is increased by 10 in response to the grade value related to cell modulation falling below the threshold value, but the increase amount of the printing power in the undercoat treatment is not limited to 10. Also, as described above, in response to the grade value related to cell modulation falling below the threshold value, the processing speed in the undercoat treatment may be decreased.

[0104] Also, an example was shown in which the printing power when printing the two-dimensional code is increased by 20 in response to the grade value related to cell contrast falling below the threshold value, but the increase amount of the printing power when printing the two-dimensional code is not limited to 20. Also, as described above, in response to the grade value related to cell contrast falling below the threshold value, the processing speed when printing the two-dimensional code may be decreased. Also, as described above, in response to the grade value related to cell contrast falling below the threshold value, the repetition frequency when printing the two-dimensional code may be increased.

[0105] <G. Saving Process of History Information> FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the saving process of history information. The saving process of history information is performed for each work.

[0106] First, in step S1, the processor 101 acquires the printing parameters of the undercoat treatment, the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code, and the identification information of the work from the laser marker 200.

[0107] Next, in step S2, the processor 101 acquires the inspection date and time, the grade information, and the identification information of the work from the verification machine 300.

[0108] Next, in step S3, the processor 101 acquires the reading time of the two-dimensional code and the identification information of the work from the code reader 400.

[0109] Next, in step S4, the processor 101 stores the information acquired in steps S1 to S3 as history information 115 in the storage 103. After step S4, the storage process ends.

[0110] <H. Correction Value Determination Process> FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the correction value determination process. The correction value determination process is started in response to acquiring the grade information from the verification machine 300.

[0111] First, in step S11, the processor 101 determines whether the grade value regarding cell modulation is less than the threshold value. If the grade value regarding cell modulation is less than the threshold value (YES in step S11), the processor 101 proceeds to step S12. On the other hand, if the grade value regarding cell modulation is not less than the threshold value (NO in step S11), the processor 101 proceeds to step S13.

[0112] In step S12, the processor 101 determines the correction value of the printing parameters for the undercoat treatment by the laser marker 200. After step S12, the processor 101 proceeds to step S13.

[0113] In step S13, the processor 101 determines whether the grade value regarding cell contrast is less than the threshold value. If the grade value regarding cell contrast is less than the threshold value (YES in step S13), the processor 101 transfers the process to step S14. On the other hand, if the grade value regarding cell contrast is not less than the threshold value (NO in step S13), the processor 101 transfers the process to step S15.

[0114] In step S14, the processor 101 determines the correction value of the printing parameter of the two-dimensional code. After step S14, the processor 101 transfers the process to step S15.

[0115] In step S15, the processor 101 determines whether the correction value has been determined. If the correction value has been determined (YES in step S15), the processor 101 transfers the process to step S16. On the other hand, if the correction value has not been determined (NO in step S15), the determination process ends.

[0116] In step S16, the processor 101 transmits the correction value to the laser marker 200. If the correction value of the printing parameter of the undercoat process has been determined in step S12, the processor 101 transmits the correction value of the printing parameter of the undercoat process to the laser marker 200. If the correction value of the printing parameter of the two-dimensional code has been determined in step S14, the processor 101 transmits the correction value of the printing parameter of the two-dimensional code to the laser marker 200. After step S16, the determination process ends.

[0117] <I. Output Process> FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the procedure of the process for outputting the user interface 51.

[0118] First, in step S21, processor 101 determines whether or not an instruction to display user interface 51 (see FIG. 4) has been received. If an instruction to display user interface 51 has been received (YES in step S21), processor 101 proceeds to step S22. On the other hand, if an instruction to display user interface 51 has not been received (NO in step S21), processor 101 repeats the process of step S21.

[0119] In step S22, the processor 101 outputs the user interface 51. Step S22 includes steps S23 and S24. First, in step S23, the processor 101 creates the user interface 51. For example, the processor 101 creates a graph 82 (see FIG. 4) and a table 92 (see FIG. 5) based on the history information 115 (see FIG. 3).

[0120] Next, in step S24, the processor 101 transmits the user interface 51 to the display device 500 (see FIG. 3). As a result, the user interface 51 is displayed on the display device 500. After step S24, the process of outputting the user interface 51 ends.

[0121] In this way, the processing device 100 acquires a grade value related to the cell modulation of the two-dimensional code printed by the laser marker 200 on a workpiece that has undergone base treatment by the laser marker 200. If the grade value related to the cell modulation of the two-dimensional code is less than the threshold value, the processing device 100 determines a correction value for the printing parameters of the base treatment and transmits the correction value to the laser marker 200. In this way, the correction value for the printing parameters of the base treatment by the laser marker 200 is output by the processing device 100. Therefore, the processing device 100 can reduce the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker 200.

[0122] The processing device 100 also acquires a grade value related to the cell contrast of the two-dimensional code printed by the laser marker 200. If the grade value related to the cell contrast of the two-dimensional code is less than a threshold value, the processing device 100 determines correction values ​​for the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code and transmits the correction values ​​to the laser marker 200. In this way, the correction values ​​for the printing parameters of the two-dimensional code are output by the processing device 100. Therefore, the processing device 100 can reduce the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker 200.

[0123] Furthermore, the laser marker 200 corrects the printing parameters based on the correction values ​​received from the processing device 100. In this way, the processing system 1 automatically adjusts the printing parameters of the laser marker 200. Therefore, the processing system 1 can reduce the burden on the user associated with adjusting the printing parameters of the laser marker 200.

[0124] [Variations] In the above embodiment, the processing device 100 and the verification device 300 are different devices. However, the verification device 300 may include the processing device 100. When the verification device 300 includes the processing device 100, obtaining a grade value means calculating a grade value.

[0125] In the above embodiment, the processing device 100 and the laser marker 200 are different devices. However, the laser marker 200 may include the processing device 100.

[0126] The processing device 100 may be a device that controls one or more field devices that perform processing on a workpiece, i.e., the processing device 100 may be a computer such as a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) or an industrial PC (Personal Computer).

[0127] [Note] The above-described embodiment and modifications include the following technical ideas.

[0128] [Configuration 1] A processing device (100), an acquisition unit (151) that acquires a first grade value related to cell modulation of a two-dimensional code (8) printed by a laser marker (200) on a workpiece (5) that has undergone surface preparation by the laser marker (200); a determination unit (152) that determines a first correction value of a first printing parameter of the base processing when the first grade value is less than a threshold value; a transmitting unit (153) that transmits the first correction value to the laser marker (200).

[0129] [Configuration 2] the first printing parameter is a first printing power; 2. The processing device according to configuration 1, wherein the first correction value is a value that strengthens the first printing power.

[0130] [Configuration 3] the first printing parameter is a first processing speed; 2. The processing device according to configuration 1, wherein the first correction value is a value that slows down the first processing speed.

[0131] [Configuration 4] The acquisition unit (151) further acquires a second grade value related to the cell contrast of the two-dimensional code (8), the determining unit (152) determines a second correction value of a second print parameter of the two-dimensional code when the second grade value is less than the threshold value; 4. The processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein the transmitting unit (153) transmits the second correction value to the laser marker (200).

[0132] [Configuration 5] the second printing parameter is a second printing power; 5. The processing device according to configuration 4, wherein the second correction value is a value that strengthens the second printing power.

[0133] [Configuration 6] 4. The processing device according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, further comprising a change unit that changes the threshold value in response to a user input.

[0134] [Configuration 7] A processing method comprising: Obtaining a first grade value related to cell modulation of a two-dimensional code (8) printed by a laser marker (200) on a workpiece (5) that has undergone surface preparation by the laser marker (200); determining a first correction value for a first printing parameter of the base treatment when the first grade value is less than a threshold value; and transmitting the first correction value to the laser marker (200).

[0135] [Configuration 8] A processing program that causes one or more computers to execute the processing method according to configuration 7.

[0136] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0137] 1 processing system, 2 arrow, 3 laser light, 5 workpiece, 8 code, 9 substrate, 10 production line, 51 user interface, 61, 71, 72, 73, 74 area, 63, 64 radio button, 65 input field, 66 button, 81, 91 tab, 82 graph, 83, 84, 85 line, 86, 87 star mark, 92 table, 100 processing device, 101 processor, 102 memory, 103 storage, 104 input interface, 105 display interface, 106, 107, 108 communication interface, 113 program, 114 setting information, 115 history information, 151 acquisition unit, 152 determination unit, 153 transmission unit, 154 output unit, 155 change unit, 200 laser marker, 300 verification machine, 400 code reader, 500 Display devices, 600 input devices.

Claims

1. A processing device, an acquisition unit that acquires a first grade value related to cell modulation of a two-dimensional code printed by a laser marker on a workpiece that has undergone surface preparation by the laser marker; a determination unit that determines a first correction value of a first printing parameter of the base processing when the first grade value is less than a threshold value; a transmitter that transmits the first correction value to the laser marker.

2. the first printing parameter is a first printing power; The processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the first correction value is a value that strengthens the first printing power.

3. the first printing parameter is a first processing speed; The processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the first correction value is a value that slows down the first processing speed.

4. the acquiring unit further acquires a second grade value related to cell contrast of the two-dimensional code, the determination unit determines a second correction value of a second print parameter of the two-dimensional code when the second grade value is less than the threshold value; The processing device according to claim 1, wherein the transmission unit transmits the second correction value to the laser marker.

5. the second printing parameter is a second printing power; The processing device according to claim 4 , wherein the second correction value is a value that strengthens the second printing power.

6. 4. The processing device according to claim 1, further comprising a change unit that changes the threshold value in response to a user input.

7. A processing method comprising: Obtaining a first grade value related to cell modulation of a two-dimensional code printed by a laser marker on a workpiece that has undergone surface preparation by the laser marker; determining a first correction value for a first printing parameter of the undercoating treatment when the first grade value is less than a threshold value; and transmitting the first correction value to the laser marker.

8. A processing program that causes one or more computers to execute the processing method according to claim 7.

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