Machine equipment setting program, machine equipment setting device and machine equipment setting method

Abstract

To easily calculate an area for carrying out each work required for crop cultivation in each period and the number of machines to be prepared, so as to minimize costs.SOLUTION: A machine equipment setting program causes a computer to execute: an acquisition process to acquire work calendar information that specifies the content of multiple types of work required for crop cultivation and the timing of such work, work and machine information that specifies the type and number of machines to be used for each work, and efficiency information that specifies the efficiency of each work; and a definition process to define a time constraint equation for specifying the work time for each machine at each timing based on the variables of the work calendar information, work and machine information, efficiency information, and number of machines.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a machine equipment setting program, a machine equipment setting device, and a machine equipment setting method. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, dairy farms have become increasingly tied to contractors and total mixed-resource centers (TMR centers). In other words, contractors often provide much of the machinery necessary to produce feed for dairy cows, and dairy farms then contract out feed production to these contractors. Meanwhile, in dairy farm management analysis, contractor fees have traditionally been treated as "given conditions / exogenous variables." In other words, dairy farms have not considered the types of machinery and depreciation costs owned by contractors when calculating feed production costs. Due to the unprecedented deterioration of the dairy farming environment in recent years (e.g., a weak yen, inflation, and rising material costs), the need to increase self-sufficiency in feed production is increasing. This has created a need for methods to accurately analyze and simulate the management of contractors, who support dairy farms.

[0003] As an example of various techniques for analyzing and simulating the contractor's management, Non-Patent Document 1 describes the optimal machinery and equipment selection for a feed production contractor based on the target crop and business scale. Specifically, the method calculates the machinery and equipment that minimizes costs under a given crop planting plan by obtaining the work area by task and period (endogenous variables), the number of machines (endogenous variables), work efficiency parameters, work time constraint equations by period and machine, crop parameters, area constraint equations for the work area by task and planted area, machine cost parameters, and a cost function, which is the objective function, and then calculating the work area by task and period and the number of machines that minimize the cost function. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0004] [Non-Patent Document 1] Yukari Shimizu, Isoo Tsunekawa, and Kazushi Nishimura, "Considerations on the Selection of Machinery Equipment According to Target Crops and Business Scale for Forage Production Contractors: Construction and Simulation of a Contractor Management Planning Model Using Mixed Integer Nonlinear Programming," Agricultural Economics Research, Vol. 93, No. 1, pp. 29-34, 2021 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In conventional technology such as that described in Non-Patent Document 1, the objective functions and various constraint equations for calculating the work area and the number of machines had to be manually written into the program. Furthermore, if analysis and simulation were to be performed by changing conditions (target crop, cultivation technique, etc.), the various constraint equations had to be manually changed. Therefore, users who wanted to calculate the work area and the number of machines using conventional technology had to have specialized knowledge of programming, related libraries, and optimization methods. Furthermore, because the objective functions and constraint equations (especially some of the constraint equations) were complex and numerous, inputting and changing them was extremely time-consuming, even for users with specialized knowledge.

[0006] One aspect of the present invention aims to easily calculate the area to be covered by each task required for growing crops for each season and the number of machines to be prepared, in order to minimize costs. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above problem, a computer is made to execute an acquisition process to acquire work calendar information that specifies the content of multiple types of work required for crop cultivation and the time when the work is to be performed, work and machine information that specifies the type and number of machines to be used for each work, and efficiency information that specifies the efficiency of each work, and a definition process to define a time constraint equation that specifies the work time for each machine at each period based on the variables of the work calendar information, the work and machine information, the efficiency information, and the number of machines.

[0008] In addition, a machinery equipment setting device according to another aspect of the present invention includes an acquisition unit that acquires work calendar information that specifies the content of multiple types of work required for crop cultivation and the time when the work is to be performed, work and machine information that specifies the type and number of machines to be used for each work, and efficiency information that specifies the efficiency of each work, and a definition unit that defines a time constraint equation that specifies the work time for each machine for each period based on variables of the work calendar information, the work and machine information, the efficiency information, and the number of machines.

[0009] Furthermore, a machinery equipment setting method according to another aspect of the present invention includes an acquisition step in which a computer acquires work calendar information that specifies the content of multiple types of work required for crop cultivation and the time when the work is to be performed, work and machine information that specifies the type and number of machines to be used for each work, and efficiency information that specifies the efficiency of each work, and a definition step in which the computer defines a time constraint equation that specifies the work time for each machine for each period based on variables of the work calendar information, the work and machine information, the efficiency information, and the number of machines. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to easily calculate the area to be covered by each task required for growing crops for each season and the number of machines to be prepared, which will minimize costs. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a machinery equipment setting device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an operation / output screen output by the device. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a crop information sheet output by the device. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a crop and work sheet output by the device. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a work / machine sheet output by the device. [Figure 6]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a depreciation expense sheet output by the device. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a work efficiency sheet output by the device. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a work calendar sheet output by the device. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the operation and output screen output by the device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a machinery equipment setting device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a work period sheet output by the device. [Figure 12] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an operator sheet output by the device. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a depreciation expense sheet output by the device. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a work efficiency sheet output by the device. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a machine equipment setting method according to an embodiment of another aspect of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] <Embodiment 1 of the Machine Equipment Setting Device> First, a machinery equipment setting device according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0013] [composition] 1, the equipment setting device 1 includes an output unit 11, an operation unit 12, a storage unit 13, and a calculation unit 14. The equipment setting device 1 is configured as a computer such as a PC, a mobile phone, or a tablet terminal. Note that if the equipment setting device 1 has a function to communicate with another device (e.g., a terminal device) (not shown) that includes a configuration equivalent to at least one of the output unit 11 and the operation unit 12, the equipment setting device 1 does not necessarily have to include at least one of the output unit 11 and the operation unit 12.

[0014] [Storage section] The storage unit 13 stores an equipment setting program 131. The storage unit 13 according to this embodiment also stores input form data 132 to be displayed on the output unit 11. The input form data 132 may be a modified version of an existing application program (e.g., spreadsheet software). This equipment setting program 131 is used to operate the calculation unit 14. The equipment setting program 131 according to this embodiment is created using the programming language "Python." However, the equipment setting program 131 may also be created using other programming languages. The storage unit 13 according to this embodiment is configured with a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, etc.

[0015] [Output section] The output unit 11 outputs various types of information. The output unit 11 according to this embodiment is configured with a display device (such as a liquid crystal display). That is, the output unit 11 according to this embodiment displays various types of information. The output unit 11 may also be configured with a printer that prints various types of information, a communication module that transmits various types of information to other devices, a terminal that is connected to other devices, etc.

[0016] [Operation unit] The operation unit 12 is composed of a keyboard, a pointing device, a touch panel, and the like that can be operated by the user.

[0017] [Calculation section] The calculation unit 14 includes an acquisition unit 141 and a first constraint equation definition unit 142 (definition unit). The calculation unit 14 according to this embodiment further includes a first variable definition unit 143, a second variable definition unit 144, a second constraint equation definition unit 145, a function definition unit 146, a calculation unit 147, and an output processing unit 148. The calculation unit 14 according to this embodiment is configured with a processor. Therefore, the functions of the control blocks 141 to 147 are realized by the calculation unit 14 executing the equipment setting program 131 stored in the storage unit 13.

[0018] (output processing section) The output processing unit 148 executes output processing. In the output processing, the output processing unit 148 displays an operation / output screen 111 on the output unit 11. The output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment displays the operation / output screen 111 as shown in FIG. 2 in response to a predetermined display start operation. The operation / output screen 111 displayed by the output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment has a file selection button B1 and a calculation start button B2 arranged thereon. When the file selection button B1 is operated, the output processing unit 148 displays a selection screen (not shown) for selecting an input form to be calculated. When the calculation start button B2 is operated, the acquisition unit 141, the definition units 142, 144 to 147, the calculation unit 147, etc. start operating. The operation / output screen 111 also has a calculation result display area R. The calculation result display area R is an area for displaying the calculation results obtained by the calculation unit 147. The output processing unit 148 may be configured to display, on the output unit 11, a command prompt into which a calculation start command can be input, instead of displaying the calculation start button B2 on the operation / output screen 111.

[0019] Furthermore, the output processing unit 148 displays, on the output unit 11, input forms for various types of information required for the operation of the acquisition unit 141, the definition units 142 to 146, the calculation unit 147, etc. The output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment displays the input forms on the output unit 11 in response to a predetermined display start operation (for example, touching or clicking on an icon of the input form). The input forms displayed by the output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment are configured with six types of input sheets 112 to 117 as shown in FIGS. 3 to 8. When a predetermined display switching operation (for example, touching or clicking on a tab corresponding to each sheet provided on the periphery of the input sheet) is performed, the output processing unit 148 displays the input sheets 112 to 117 corresponding to the operation.

[0020] The output processing unit 148 may be configured to display an input form that combines at least two of the input sheets 112 to 117. The output processing unit 148 may also be configured to simultaneously display at least two of the input sheets 112 to 117 side by side. The output processing unit 148 may also be configured to display an input form in which a calculation start button B2 is provided on one of the input sheets 112 to 117 or on a dedicated operation sheet. The output processing unit 148 may also be configured to display the buttons B1 and B2 and the calculation results on separate screens. The output processing unit 148 may also be configured to display a command prompt on the output unit 11 that allows a calculation start command to be input. In this case, the output processing unit 148 does not necessarily have the function of displaying the calculation start button B2.

[0021] The crop information sheet 112 is an input sheet for inputting crop information. The crop information specifies the type of crop to be cultivated and the area under cultivation. The crop information also specifies the cost per unit area required to cultivate the crop. The cost includes material costs and labor costs. Material costs include fertilizer costs, fuel costs, etc. Labor costs include labor costs from the management side and labor costs from the contractor side. As shown in FIG. 3 , in the crop information sheet 112, each row (multiple cells arranged horizontally) corresponds to a crop, and each column (multiple cells arranged vertically) corresponds to the name of the crop, cost, cultivated area, and total cost (cost × cultivated area). When the user selects a cell to be input by a selection operation on the operation unit 12 and performs an input operation on the operation unit 12, the output processing unit 148 displays the numerical value entered in the selected cell. When numerical values ​​are displayed in the cell corresponding to the cost and the cell corresponding to the cultivated area, the output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment calculates the total cost and displays it in the corresponding cell. The output processing unit 148 may be configured to add or remove crops (rows) in the crop information sheet 112 in response to an add / remove operation by the user on the operation unit 12. The output processing unit 148 may also be configured to display cost values ​​by referencing external data.

[0022] The crop and work sheet 113 is an input sheet for inputting crop and work information. The crop and work information is information that specifies the work required for cultivating a crop. As shown in FIG. 4 , in the crop and work sheet 113, each row corresponds to a work for each crop, and each column corresponds to a crop. The "conventional system" in the crop name is a general term for grasses that are harvested two or less times, and the "three-harvest system" is a general term for grasses that are harvested three or less times. When a user selects a cell to be input through a selection operation on the operation unit 12 and performs an input operation on the operation unit 12, the output processing unit 148 displays a symbol indicating that the work will be performed in the selected cell. The output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment displays a "1" in the cell where the input operation has been performed. The output processing unit 148 may be configured to add or remove a work (row) in the crop and work sheet 113 through the user's add / remove operation on the operation unit 12. The work name may be either a Japanese name or an English name.

[0023] The work / machine sheet 114 is an input sheet for inputting work / machine information. The work / machine information specifies the type and number of machines to be used for each work. As shown in FIG. 5 , each row of the work / machine sheet 114 corresponds to a work for each crop, and each column corresponds to a machine. Furthermore, the output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment displays a symbol indicating that a machine will not be used by default in each cell that can be entered. The output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment displays a "0 (zero)" as the symbol indicating that a machine will not be used. When a cell to be entered is selected by a selection operation on the operation unit 12 by the user and an input operation is performed on the operation unit 12, the output processing unit 148 displays a symbol indicating that a machine will be used in the selected cell. The output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment displays a "1" in the cell where the input operation was performed. The output processing unit 148 may be configured to add or remove a work (row) and / or a machine (column) to the work / machine sheet 114 in response to an add / remove operation on the operation unit 12 by the user. Furthermore, the work name and machine name may be either Japanese or English.

[0024] The depreciation expense sheet 115 is an input sheet for inputting depreciation expense information. The depreciation expense information specifies the depreciation expense of each machine used in each task required for growing crops. As shown in FIG. 6 , in the depreciation expense sheet 115, each row corresponds to a machine, and each column corresponds to the purchase price, years of use, and depreciation expense (purchase price / years of use). When a user selects a cell to be input through a selection operation on the operation unit 12 and performs an input operation on the operation unit 12, the output processing unit 148 displays the value entered in the selected cell. When values ​​are displayed in the cell corresponding to the purchase price and the cell corresponding to the years of use, the output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment calculates the depreciation expense and displays it in the corresponding cell. Note that the output processing unit 148 may be configured to add or remove machines (rows) from the depreciation expense sheet 115 through the user's add / remove operation on the operation unit 12. Furthermore, machine names may be either Japanese or English. The output processing unit 148 may also be configured to display the numerical value of the purchase price by referencing external data.

[0025] The work efficiency sheet 116 is an input sheet for inputting efficiency information. The efficiency information is information that defines the efficiency of each task. As shown in FIG. 7 , in the work efficiency sheet 116, each row corresponds to a task for each crop, and each column corresponds to work efficiency. Work efficiency is the work time (h) per unit area (e.g., 1 ha). When a user selects a cell to be input through a selection operation on the operation unit 12 and performs an input operation on the operation unit 12, the output processing unit 148 displays a numerical value in the selected cell. The output processing unit 148 may be configured to add or remove the name of the task for which work efficiency is to be input on the work efficiency sheet 116 through an add / remove operation on the operation unit 12 by the user. The task name may be in either Japanese or English. The output processing unit 148 may be configured to display the numerical value of work efficiency by referring to external data.

[0026] The work calendar sheet 117 is an input sheet for inputting work calendar information. The work calendar information is information that specifies the contents of multiple types of work required for growing crops and the time when the work is to be performed. The time is indicated by half-ten (1st to 6th ten). As shown in FIG. 8, each row corresponds to a work for each crop, and each column corresponds to a half-ten for each month. When a user selects a cell to be input by a selection operation on the operation unit 12 and performs an input operation on the operation unit 12, the output processing unit 148 displays a symbol indicating that the work is to be performed in the selected cell. The output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment displays "1" in the cell where the input operation has been performed. The output processing unit 148 may be configured to add or remove a work (row) in the work calendar sheet 117 by the user's add / remove operation on the operation unit 12. The work name may be either a Japanese name or an English name.

[0027] (Acquisition Department) The acquisition unit 141 executes an acquisition process. In the acquisition process, the acquisition unit 141 acquires work calendar information, work / machine information, and efficiency information. The acquisition unit 141 according to this embodiment further acquires crop information, crop / work information, and depreciation cost information.

[0028] As described above, the equipment setting program 131 according to this embodiment is written using the programming language "Python." Various external libraries are provided for Python. Therefore, the acquisition unit 141 according to this embodiment is configured to call (import) the external library "Openpyxl" when acquiring various pieces of information and read the contents of each of the input sheets 112 to 117 using the called "Openpyxl." Next, the acquisition unit 141 converts the read contents of each of the input sheets 112 to 117 into a data format. The acquisition unit 141 according to this embodiment is configured to call the external library "Pandas" and perform conversion using the called "Pandas." Note that the acquisition unit 141 may be configured to read each of the input sheets 112 to 117 and / or convert them into a data format using means other than an external library. Furthermore, if the equipment setting device 1 includes an operation unit operable by a user, the acquisition unit 141 may be configured to acquire various pieces of information directly input by the user through an input operation on the operation unit 12.

[0029] (First variable definition section) The first variable definition unit 143 executes a first variable definition process (fourth definition process) before executing a second variable definition process (fifth definition process) described later. In the first variable definition process, the first variable definition unit 143 defines a variable for the area to be implemented for each task period as an endogenous variable based on the work calendar information. Conventionally, the variable for the area to be implemented has been manually written, which was extremely time-consuming. However, in the equipment setting device 1 according to this embodiment, the first variable definition unit 143 automatically defines the variable for the area to be implemented. This makes it easy for the calculation unit 147 to perform preparations for calculation. Note that if the equipment setting device 1 is configured to directly accept input of the variable for the area to be implemented, the calculation unit 14 does not need to include the first variable definition unit 143.

[0030] (Second variable definition part) The second variable definition unit 144 executes a second variable definition process (fifth definition process) before executing a first constraint equation definition process (definition process) described later. In the second variable definition process, the second variable definition unit 144 defines a variable for the number of machines as an endogenous variable based on work and machine information. Conventionally, the variable for the number of machines has been manually entered, which was extremely time-consuming. However, in the equipment setting device 1 according to this embodiment, the first variable definition unit 143 automatically defines the variable for the number of machines. This makes it easy for the calculation unit 147 to perform preparations for calculation. Note that if the equipment setting device 1 is configured to directly accept input of the variable for the number of machines, the calculation unit 14 does not need to include the second variable definition unit 144.

[0031] (First constraint expression definition part) The first constraint equation definition unit 142 executes a first constraint equation definition process (definition process) before executing a second constraint equation definition process (second definition process) described later. In the first constraint equation definition process, the first constraint equation definition unit 142 defines a time constraint equation based on variables such as work calendar information, work / machine information, efficiency information, and the number of machines. The time constraint equation is an equation that specifies the work time for each machine for each period. For example, suppose that, after referring to the work / machine information, it is determined that the work shown in Table 1 below is required in the fifth half of April for crop cultivation. All of these works require the use of tractors. Therefore, the operating time of tractors when performing these works is limited by the number of tractors available. [Table 1]

[0032] The first constraint equation definition unit 142 refers to the acquired variables of work calendar information, work / machine information, efficiency information, and number of machines, and automatically defines a time constraint equation that specifies the work time of the tractor in the fifth third of April, as shown in the following equation 1. In addition to the following equation 1, the first constraint equation definition unit 142 also automatically defines time constraint equations that specify the work time of the tractor in each period other than the fifth third of April, and time constraint equations that specify the work time of each period of each machine other than the tractor.

number

[0033] In the past, all of the complex and lengthy time constraint equations described above had to be written manually, which required a great deal of work. However, in the equipment configuration device 1 according to this embodiment, the first constraint equation definition unit 142 automatically defines all of the time constraint equations. This facilitates preparations for the calculation unit 147 to perform calculations. The first constraint equation definition unit 142 may be configured to define time constraint equations by taking into account variables such as work calendar information, work and machine information, efficiency information, and the number of machines, as well as variables for the area of ​​work performed for each work period. In this case, the work time for a certain half-ten in Equation 1 can be calculated by multiplying the variable for the area of ​​work performed for a certain half-ten by the work efficiency. Furthermore, if the equipment configuration device 1 is configured to directly accept input of time constraint equations, the calculation unit 14 does not need to include the first constraint equation definition unit 142.

[0034] (Second constraint expression definition part) The second constraint equation definition unit 145 executes the second constraint equation definition process (second definition process) before executing the function definition process (third definition process) described below. In the second constraint equation definition process, the second constraint equation definition unit 145 defines an area constraint equation based on work calendar information, crop information, and crop / work information. The area constraint equation is an equation that specifies the relationship between the area where each task is performed and the planted area. For example, suppose that after referencing the work calendar information, the necessary tasks and the work periods in which the tasks can be performed for the cultivation of "corn" are determined to be as shown in Table 2 below. The work periods differ for each task, but for each task, the total area where the tasks are performed divided into each period must be equal to the planted area. [Table 2]

[0035] The second constraint equation definition unit 145 refers to the acquired work calendar information, crop information, crop / work information, and time constraint equation, and automatically defines an area constraint equation that specifies the relationship between the area where each work is performed and the planted area in the cultivation of "corn" as shown in the following equation 2. In addition to the following equation 2, the second constraint equation definition unit 145 also automatically defines area constraint equations that specify the relationship between the area where each work is performed and the planted area in the cultivation of crops other than "corn."

number

[0036] In the past, all of the complex and long area constraint equations described above had to be written manually, which required a great deal of work. However, in the equipment setting device 1 according to this embodiment, the second constraint equation definition unit 145 automatically defines all area constraint equations. This facilitates preparations for the calculation unit 147 to perform calculations. The second constraint equation definition unit 145 may be configured to define area constraint equations by taking into account variables for the area of ​​each work period, in addition to work calendar information, crop information, and crop / work information. Furthermore, if the equipment setting device 1 is configured to directly accept input of area constraint equations, the calculation unit 14 does not need to include the second constraint equation definition unit 145.

[0037] (function definition part) The function definition unit 146 executes a function definition process. In the function definition process, the function definition unit 146 defines a cost function based on crop information and depreciation information. The cost function is an objective function that represents the total cost of cultivating the required amount of each crop. The function definition unit 146 according to this embodiment defines the cost function, for example, as shown in Equation 3 below. Note that the function definition unit 146 may be configured to define the cost function by taking into account the variable of the number of machines in addition to the crop information and depreciation information.

number

[0038] (Calculation section) The calculation unit 147 executes a calculation process. In the calculation process, the calculation unit 147 calculates the implementation area for each work period and the number of machines to be prepared (hereinafter referred to as the optimal solution) that minimizes the cost function. The calculation unit 147 calculates the optimal solution under the constraints indicated by the defined area constraint equation group and time constraint equation group. In addition, the calculation unit 147 according to this embodiment further calculates the annual machine depreciation cost, which is the sum of the depreciation costs of each machine for one year. The calculation unit 147 according to this embodiment calculates the optimal solution using the external library "Pyomo" and the external library "glpk." Specifically, the calculation unit 147 calls the external library "Pyomo" and uses the called "Pyomo" to convert the cost function into a format that can be read by the external library "glpk." Next, the calculation unit 147 calls the external library "glpk" and calculates the optimal solution using the called "glpk."

[0039] (output processing section) The output processing unit 148 outputs the optimal solution calculated by the calculation unit 147 to the output unit 11. As described above, the output unit 11 according to this embodiment outputs by display. Therefore, the output processing unit 148 displays the optimal solution on the output unit 11. Also, as described above, the operation / output screen 111 according to this embodiment has a calculation result display area R. Therefore, the output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment displays the optimal solution in the calculation result display area R, for example, as shown in FIG. 9 . Also, the output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment outputs the total cost (the minimum value of the cost function) together with the optimal solution to the output unit 11 (displays it in the calculation result display area R). Also, the output processing unit 148 according to this embodiment outputs the annual machine depreciation cost to the output unit 11 (displays it in the calculation result display area R) separately from the total cost. The annual machine depreciation cost is the depreciation cost when the number of machines output as the optimal solution is purchased. When the calculation start command is input to a command prompt, the output processing unit 148 may be configured to display the optimal solution on the command prompt.

[0040] [Effects of the machine equipment setting device (machine equipment setting program)] The equipment setting device 1 (equipment setting program 131) described above automatically defines a time constraint equation when work calendar information, work / machine information, and efficiency information are input. Furthermore, when different information from the previous information is input, the equipment setting device 1 (equipment setting program 131) automatically redefines the time constraint equation to match the input information. This eliminates the need for the user to manually define and input complex and extensive time constraint equations. Therefore, the equipment setting device 1 (equipment setting program 131) can easily calculate the area to be used for each work period required for crop cultivation and the number of machines to be prepared, which minimizes costs, using the automatically defined time constraint equations. Furthermore, even if the user does not have knowledge of programming or optimization techniques, the area to be used and the number of machines can be calculated. Furthermore, the equipment setting device 1 (equipment setting program 131) according to this embodiment automatically defines and redefines the area constraint equation when additional crop information and crop / work information are input. Therefore, according to the machinery and equipment setting device 1 (machine and equipment setting program 131) according to this embodiment, the automatically defined time constraint equation and area constraint equation can more easily calculate the optimal solution.

[0041] <Embodiment 2 of the Machinery Equipment Setting Device> Next, a description will be given of a machinery equipment setting device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of convenience, the same reference numerals will be used to designate components having the same functions as those described in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0042] [composition] As shown in FIG. 10, the equipment setting device 1A includes an output unit 11 and an operation unit 12 similar to those included in the equipment setting device 1 according to the first embodiment, as well as a memory unit 13A and a calculation unit 14A.

[0043] [Storage section] The storage unit 13A according to the second embodiment stores an equipment setting program 131A that is different from the equipment setting program 131 according to the first embodiment. This equipment setting program 131A is for operating the calculation unit 14A. The storage unit 13A according to the second embodiment also stores input form data 132A that is different from the input form data 132 according to the first embodiment.

[0044] [Calculation section] The calculation unit 14A according to the second embodiment includes a first variable definition unit 143, a second variable definition unit 144, and a second constraint equation definition unit 145, which are similar to those included in the calculation unit 14 according to the first embodiment. The calculation unit 14A according to the second embodiment further includes an acquisition unit 141A, a first constraint equation definition unit 142A (definition unit), a function definition unit 146A, a calculation unit 147A, an output processing unit 148A, a third constraint equation definition unit 149, a fourth constraint equation definition unit 150, and a fifth constraint equation definition unit 151. The calculation unit 14A according to the second embodiment is configured with a processor. Therefore, the functions of the control blocks 141A to 151 are realized by the calculation unit 14A executing a machinery equipment setting program 131A stored in the storage unit 13A.

[0045] (output processing section) The output processing unit 148A according to the second embodiment displays an input form different from the input form according to the first embodiment on the output unit 11. The input form displayed by the output processing unit 148A according to the second embodiment is configured by an input sheet 112A and four types of input sheets 115A, 116A, 118, and 119 as shown in FIGS.

[0046] The work period sheet 118 is an input sheet for inputting work period information. The work period information specifies the number of days in each work period and the work conditions during each work period. The work conditions include the available work hours per day, the total number of hours available for part-time employment within the period, and the part-time wage rate within the period. As shown in FIG. 11 , in the work period sheet 118 according to the second embodiment, each row corresponds to a work period, and each column corresponds to the number of work days (days), the available work hours per day (hours), the total number of hours available for part-time employment within the period (part_timer_limit), and the part-time wage rate (wage_rate). When an input operation is performed on the operation unit 12, the output processing unit 148 displays a numerical value in the selected cell. Note that the output processing unit 148 may be configured to add or remove work periods for which the number of work days and work conditions are to be input in the work period sheet 118, in response to an add / remove operation performed by the user on the operation unit 12.

[0047] The operator sheet 119 is an input sheet for inputting operator information. The operator information includes the number of full-time operators and the employment costs of the full-time operators. As shown in FIG. 12 , in the operator sheet 119 according to the second embodiment, each row corresponds to the number of full-time operators and the employment costs of the full-time operators, and each column corresponds to a value. When an input operation is performed on the operation unit 12, the output processing unit 148 displays a numerical value in the selected cell. Note that some organizations performing work may not have full-time operators. For this reason, the operator sheet 119 may be configured to allow "0" to be input as the value for the number of full-time operators. The output processing unit 148 may also be configured not to display the operator sheet 119.

[0048] The crop information sheet 112A according to the second embodiment is an input sheet for inputting crop information, similar to the crop information sheet 112 according to the first embodiment. On the other hand, the cost per unit area required to cultivate a crop, as defined by the crop information input into the crop information sheet 112A according to the second embodiment, is a value that includes material costs such as fertilizer costs and fuel costs, and does not include labor costs.

[0049] The depreciation expense sheet 115A according to the second embodiment is an input sheet for inputting depreciation expense information, similar to the depreciation expense sheet 115 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 13 , in the depreciation expense sheet 115A according to the second embodiment, each row corresponds to a machine, and each column corresponds to the purchase price, years of use, depreciation (purchase price / years of use), and the upper and lower limits of the number of machines that can be purchased and installed. The number of machines can also be fixed by setting the upper and lower limits of the number of machines to the same value. Note that if there is no need to set upper and lower limits on the number of machines, inputting the upper and lower limits of the number of machines into the depreciation expense sheet 115A can be omitted.

[0050] The work efficiency sheet 116A according to the second embodiment is an input sheet for inputting efficiency information, similar to the work efficiency sheet 116 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 14 , in the work efficiency sheet 116A according to the second embodiment, each row corresponds to a task for each crop, and each column corresponds to the number of personnel required for each task and the work efficiency. For example, fertilization requires two people: one to apply the fertilizer in the field and one to transport and assist the fertilizer. Therefore, a value of “2” or more is entered in the “Number of personnel” field in the fertilization row of the work efficiency sheet 116A. Furthermore, harvesting is a group task that requires a total of seven people: one operator for a large harvesting machine, four dump truck transporters, and two workers at the destination. Therefore, a value of “7” or more is entered in the “Number of personnel” field in the harvesting row.

[0051] (Acquisition Department) The acquisition unit 141A according to the second embodiment executes an acquisition process different from that executed by the acquisition unit 141 according to the above-described first embodiment. In the acquisition process according to the second embodiment, the acquisition unit 141A further acquires work calendar information, work / machine information, efficiency information, work period information, operator information, crop information, crop / work information, and depreciation cost information, as shown in Fig. 10 .

[0052] (First constraint expression definition part) The first constraint equation definition unit 142A according to the second embodiment executes a first constraint equation definition process (definition process) different from that executed by the first constraint equation definition unit 142 according to the first embodiment. In the first constraint equation definition process according to the second embodiment, the first constraint equation definition unit 142A defines a time constraint equation based on variables such as work calendar information, work / machine information, efficiency information, work period information, and the number of machines. The first constraint equation definition unit 142A automatically calculates the available work hours for each period in the time constraint equation (see equation 1 above) for each work period based on the number of available work days and available work hours per day in the work period information.

[0053] (Third constraint expression definition part) The third constraint equation definition unit 149 executes a third constraint equation definition process. In the third constraint equation definition process, the third constraint equation definition unit 149 defines a task-specific work time constraint equation for each task and each work period. The task-specific work time constraint equation is an equation that specifies the total work time of at least one of a full-time operator and a part-time operator. The third constraint equation definition unit 149 references the acquired work period information, operator information, and the total work time of operators (full-time and part-time) for each task defined as endogenous variables, and automatically defines the task-specific work time constraint equation as shown in Equation 4 below.

number

[0054] (Fourth constraint expression definition part) The fourth constraint equation definition unit 150 executes a fourth constraint equation definition process. In the fourth constraint equation definition process, the fourth constraint equation definition unit 150 defines a work time period-specific constraint equation for each work period. The work time period-specific constraint equation is an equation that specifies the total work time of an operator. The fourth constraint equation definition unit 150 automatically defines the work time period-specific constraint equation as shown in Equation 5 below, by referring to the acquired work period information, operator information, and the total work time of operators (full-time / part-time) by period defined as endogenous variables. In this case, the fourth constraint equation definition unit 150 defines a work time period-specific constraint equation for each full-time operator and part-time operator.

number

[0055] (Fifth constraint expression definition part) The fifth constraint equation definition unit 151 executes a fifth constraint equation definition process. In the fifth constraint equation definition process, the fifth constraint equation definition unit 151 defines a machine equipment constraint equation for each machine based on depreciation cost information. The machine equipment constraint equation is an equation that specifies the upper and lower limits of the number of machines that can be installed (lower limit≦number of machines≦upper limit).

[0056] (function definition part) The function definition unit 146A according to the second embodiment executes a function definition process different from that executed by the function definition unit 146 according to the first embodiment. In the function definition process according to the second embodiment, the function definition unit 146 defines a cost function based on crop information, depreciation cost information, variables for the number of machines, and operator information. The function definition unit 146A according to the second embodiment defines the cost function, for example, as shown in the following equation 6.

number

[0057] (Calculation section) The calculation unit 147A according to the second embodiment executes calculation processing different from that of the calculation unit 147 according to the first embodiment. In the calculation processing according to the second embodiment, the calculation unit 147A calculates an optimal solution (the implementation area for each period of each operation and the number of machines to be prepared, which minimizes the cost function) under the constraints indicated by the defined area constraint equation group, time constraint equation group, operator work time / operation-specific constraint equation group, operator work time period-specific constraint equation group, and machinery equipment upper and lower limit constraint equation group.

[0058] [Effects of the machine equipment setting device (machine equipment setting program)] The equipment setting device 1A (equipment setting program 131A) described above provides the same effects as the equipment setting device 1A (equipment setting program 131A) according to the first embodiment. That is, the equipment setting device 1A (equipment setting program 131A) can easily calculate the area to be used for each task required for growing crops and the number of machines to be prepared for each task, which minimizes costs, using an automatically defined time constraint equation. Furthermore, the equipment setting device 1A (equipment setting program 131A) can calculate the area to be used and the number of machines, even if the user does not have knowledge of programming or optimization techniques.

[0059] The equipment setting device 1A (equipment setting program 131A) according to the second embodiment is configured to calculate an optimal solution assuming a case where labor procurement is limited. Specifically, the equipment setting device 1A allows input of work period information (available working hours per day, total hours available for part-time employment within the period, and part-time wage unit price within the period). Therefore, the equipment setting device 1A (equipment setting program 131A) according to the second embodiment makes it possible to calculate an optimal solution by setting at least one of the number of working days and available working hours shorter for work periods with seasonally frequent bad weather than for other work periods. It is also possible to calculate an optimal solution by adjusting the available working hours per day for each season with different day lengths (for example, setting the available working hours in summer, when the day length is long, longer than in spring and autumn). Furthermore, restrictions on part-time employment during busy farming seasons and increases in wage unit prices during busy farming seasons can be reflected in the calculation of the optimal value using the work period sheet 118.

[0060] Furthermore, the equipment setting device 1A according to the second embodiment is capable of inputting the number of personnel required for a task as one piece of efficiency information. Therefore, according to the equipment setting device 1A according to the second embodiment (the equipment setting program 131A), for tasks for which the number of personnel required is fixed (for example, for fertilization, two personnel are required: one person who applies the fertilizer and one person who transports and assists the fertilizer; for harvesting, one harvesting machine operator, four people who transport the dump truck, and two workers at the destination, a total of seven personnel), by inputting the predetermined number of personnel, it becomes possible to calculate an optimal solution that is more suited to the actual situation (more accurate than when there is no limit on the number of personnel for the task).

[0061] Furthermore, the equipment setting device 1A (equipment setting program 131A) according to the second embodiment allows input of upper and lower limits on the number of machines as one piece of depreciation information. Therefore, according to the equipment setting device 1A (equipment setting program 131A) according to the second embodiment, if there is a limit on the number of operators for the machines used for the work because the work content is special, for example, by setting an upper limit on the number of the machines, it becomes possible to calculate an optimal solution that is more suited to the actual situation (more accurate than when there is no limit on the number of the machines).

[0062] <Mechanical equipment setting method> Next, a machine equipment setting method according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0063] 15, the equipment setting method includes an obtaining step S1 and a first constraint equation defining step S2 (definition step). The equipment setting method may further include a first variable defining step S3, a second variable defining step S4, a second constraint equation defining step S5, a function defining step S6, a calculation step S7, and an output step S8.

[0064] (Acquisition step) In the first acquisition step S1, the computer acquires work calendar information, work / machine information, and efficiency information. In the acquisition step S1, crop information, crop / work information, and depreciation information may further be acquired. The acquired information may be input to the computer via an operation unit provided in the computer, or may be received by the computer from another device. The acquisition step S1 may be performed using the machinery equipment setting device 1 or another device. In the acquisition step S1, work period information, operator information, crop information described in the second embodiment of the machinery equipment setting device, depreciation, and efficiency information may further be acquired.

[0065] (First variable definition step) After acquiring the work calendar information in the acquisition step S1, a first variable definition step S3 may be performed before performing the first constraint equation definition step S2. In the first variable definition step S3, variables for the area of ​​work performed at each work period are defined as endogenous variables based on the work calendar information. This eliminates the need for a person to manually define the variables for the area of ​​work and input them into a computer, making it easier to calculate the values. The computer that performs the first variable definition step S3 may be the same as or different from the computer that performed the acquisition step S1.

[0066] (Second variable definition step) Furthermore, if the first variable definition step S3 has been performed after the task and machine information has been acquired in the acquisition step S1, the second variable definition step S4 may be performed before the first constraint equation definition step S2 is performed. In the second variable definition step S4, the variable for the number of machines is defined as an endogenous variable based on the task and machine information. This eliminates the need for a person to define the variable for the number of machines and input it into the computer, making it even easier to calculate the numerical value. The computer that performs the second variable definition step S4 may be the same as or different from the computer that performed the acquisition step S1.

[0067] (First constraint definition step) After the work calendar information, work / machine information, and efficiency information are acquired in the acquisition step S1, the first constraint equation definition step S2 is performed. In the first constraint equation definition step S2, a time constraint equation is defined based on variables of the work calendar information, work / machine information, efficiency information, and number of machines. This eliminates the need for a person to define the time constraint equation and input it into a computer, making it easier to calculate the values. Note that in the first constraint equation definition step S2, the time constraint equation may be defined by taking into account variables of the work calendar information, work / machine information, efficiency information, and number of machines, as well as variables of the area of ​​work performed for each period of each work. Furthermore, the computer that performs the first constraint equation definition step S2 may be the same as or different from the computer that performed the acquisition step S1. Note that if work period information is acquired in the acquisition step S1, the first constraint equation definition step S2 may define a time constraint equation based on variables of the work calendar information, work / machine information, efficiency information, work period information, and number of machines.

[0068] (Second constraint definition step) Furthermore, if crop and work information is further acquired in the acquisition step S1, a second constraint equation definition step S5 may be further performed before the function definition step S6. In the second constraint equation definition step S5, an area constraint equation is defined based on the work calendar information, crop information, and crop and work information. This eliminates the need for a person to define the area constraint equation and input it into the computer, making it easier to calculate the values. In addition to the work calendar information, crop information, and crop and work information, the area constraint equation may also be defined by taking into account variables for the area implemented for each work period in the second constraint equation definition step S5. The computer that performs the second constraint equation definition step S5 may be the same as or different from the computer that performed the acquisition step S1.

[0069] When the work period information, operator information, and depreciation costs described in the second embodiment of the equipment setting device are acquired in the acquisition step S1, a third constraint equation definition step, a fourth constraint equation definition step, and a fifth constraint equation definition step may be further performed before the function definition step S6 is performed. In the third constraint equation definition step, work-time constraint equations are defined for each work and each work period. In the fourth constraint equation definition step, work-time constraint equations are defined for each work period. In the fifth constraint equation definition step, equipment constraint equations are defined for each machine based on depreciation cost information.

[0070] (Function definition step) Furthermore, if crop information and depreciation information are acquired in acquisition step S1 and the second constraint equation definition step is performed, function definition step S6 may be performed. In function definition step S6, a computer defines a cost function based on the crop information and depreciation information. Note that in function definition step S6, the cost function may be defined by taking into account variables such as the number of machines and operator information in addition to the crop information and depreciation information. Furthermore, the computer that performs function definition step S6 may be the same as or different from the computer that performed acquisition step S1.

[0071] (Calculation step) After the cost function is defined in the function definition step S6, a calculation step S7 may be performed. In the calculation step S7, the computer calculates the area to be implemented for each task per period and the number of machines to be prepared (optimal solution) that minimizes the cost function. In this case, the optimal solution may be calculated under the constraints indicated by the defined area constraint equation group, time constraint equation group, operator work time / task-specific constraint equation group, operator work time period-specific constraint equation group, and machine equipment upper / lower limit constraint equation group. In the calculation step S7, the annual machine depreciation cost, which is the total of the annual depreciation cost of each machine, may be further calculated. The computer that performs the calculation step S7 may be the same as or different from the computer that performed the acquisition step S1 and the first constraint equation definition step S2.

[0072] (output step) After the optimal solution is calculated in the calculation step S7, an output step S8 may be performed. In the output step S8, the optimal solution calculated in the calculation step S7 is output. The output may be performed by display, printing, audio output, or signal transmission. The computer that performs the output step S8 may be the same as or different from the computer that performed the acquisition step S1, the first constraint equation definition step S2, and the calculation step S7.

[0073] [Effects of machine equipment setting method] In the equipment configuration method described above, when work calendar information, work and machine information, and efficiency information are input to the computer, the computer automatically defines a time constraint equation. Furthermore, in the equipment configuration method, when different information is input to the computer, the computer automatically redefines the time constraint equation to match the input information. This eliminates the need for the user to manually define and input complex and extensive time constraint equations. Therefore, similar to the equipment configuration devices 1 and 1A (equipment configuration programs 131 and 131A) described above, the equipment configuration method can easily calculate the area to be used for each task and the number of machines to be prepared for each task required for crop cultivation, thereby minimizing costs, using automatically defined time constraint equations. Furthermore, even if the user does not have knowledge of programming or optimization techniques, the area to be used and the number of machines can be calculated. Furthermore, in the equipment configuration method according to this embodiment, when additional crop information and crop and work information are input to the computer, the computer automatically defines the area constraint equation. Therefore, according to the equipment configuration method according to this embodiment, the automatically defined time constraint equations and area constraint equations make it even easier to calculate an optimal solution.

[0074] <Modification> The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the claims. Furthermore, embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the technical means disclosed in different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0075] For example, the equipment setting devices 1 and 1A described above include the output unit 11 and the operation unit 12. However, the equipment setting devices 1 and 1A may not include these units and may instead be configured to communicate with another device having functions equivalent to those of the output unit 11 and the operation unit 12. The equipment setting devices 1 and 1A may also be configured to receive various information input to the other device, calculate an optimal solution based on the various information, and transmit the optimal solution to the other device.

[0076] Furthermore, some or all of the functions of the control blocks can be realized by logic circuits. For example, an integrated circuit in which a logic circuit that functions as each of the control blocks is formed is also included in the scope of the present invention. In addition, the functions of the control blocks can also be realized by, for example, a quantum computer.

[0077] Furthermore, each process described in each of the above embodiments may be executed by AI (Artificial Intelligence). In this case, the AI ​​may run on the control device or on another device (for example, an edge computer or a cloud server).

[0078] The equipment setting programs 131 and 131A may be stored in one or more computer-readable storage media rather than being stored temporarily. These storage media may or may not be included in the device. In the latter case, the equipment setting programs 131 and 131A may be supplied to the device via any wired or wireless transmission medium. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 1. Machine equipment setting device 11 Output section 111 Operation and output screen B1 File selection button B2 Calculation start button R Calculation result display area 112 Crop Information Sheet 113 Crop Worksheet 114 Work / machine seat 115, 115A Depreciation Sheet 116, 116A Work Efficiency Sheet 117 Work Calendar Sheet 118 Work Period Sheet 119 Operator seat 12 Control section 13 Storage section 131 Machinery equipment setting program 132, 132A Input form data 14, 14A calculation section 141, 141A Acquisition Department 142, 142A First constraint expression definition part (definition part) 143 First variable definition section 144 Second variable definition section 145 Second constraint expression definition part 146, 146A Function definition section 147 Calculation Unit 148, 148A Output processing section 149 Third constraint expression definition part 150 Fourth constraint expression definition part 151 Fifth constraint expression definition part S1 Acquisition step S2 First constraint definition step (definition step) S3 First variable definition step S4 Second variable definition step S5 Second constraint definition step S6 Function definition step S7 Calculation step S8 Output Step

Claims

1. On the computer, work calendar information that specifies the content of multiple types of work required for growing crops and the time when the work is to be performed; work / machine information that specifies the type and number of machines to be used for each work; efficiency information that specifies the efficiency of each work; and an acquisition process for acquiring the information. a definition process for defining a time constraint equation that specifies the work time of each machine for each period based on the variables of the work calendar information, the work / machine information, the efficiency information, and the number of machines; Execute Machine equipment setting program.

2. The computer, In the acquisition process, Crop information specifying the type of crop to be cultivated and the area to be planted for said crop; Crop and work information specifying work required for cultivating the crop; Further obtain further executing a second definition process for defining an area constraint equation that defines the relationship between the area where each work is carried out and the planted area based on the work calendar information, the crop information, and the crop and work information; The machine equipment setting program according to claim 1 .

3. The computer, In the acquisition process, depreciation cost information specifying the depreciation cost of machines used in each task required for cultivating the crop is further acquired; a third definition process for defining a cost function that represents the total cost of cultivating a required amount of each of the crops based on the crop information and the depreciation cost information; A calculation process for calculating the area to be implemented for each work period and the number of machines to be prepared, which minimizes the cost function; Execute The machine equipment setting program according to claim 2 .

4. and causing the computer to further calculate, in the calculation process, an annual machine depreciation expense, which is a sum of the depreciation expenses of each machine for one year. The machine equipment setting program according to claim 3.

5. and further causing the computer to execute a fourth definition process of defining a variable of an area of ​​each work period as an endogenous variable based on the work calendar information. The machine equipment setting program according to claim 1 .

6. further causing the computer to execute a fifth definition process of defining the variable of the number of machines as an endogenous variable based on the work / machine information; The machine equipment setting program according to claim 1 .

7. In the definition process, the computer defines the time constraint equation further based on work period information that specifies the number of days in each work period and work conditions during each work period. The machine equipment setting program according to claim 1 .

8. an acquisition unit that acquires work calendar information that specifies the content of multiple types of work required for growing crops and the time when the work is to be performed, work / machine information that specifies the type and number of machines to be used for each work, and efficiency information that specifies the efficiency of each work; a definition unit that defines a time constraint equation that specifies the work time of each machine for each period based on variables of the work calendar information, the work / machine information, the efficiency information, and the number of machines; Equipped with Machine equipment setting device.

9. an acquisition step in which the computer acquires work calendar information that specifies the content of multiple types of work required for growing crops and the time when the work will be performed, work / machine information that specifies the type and number of machines to be used for each work, and efficiency information that specifies the efficiency of each work; a definition step in which the computer defines a time constraint equation that specifies the work time of each machine for each period based on the work calendar information, the work / machine information, the efficiency information, and variables of the number of machines; Including, How to set up machinery.

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