Molding management device, molding management method, and molding management program

Abstract

To provide a molding management device, a molding management method, and a molding management program that can manage a series of processes related to molding of a three-dimensional molding.SOLUTION: A molding management device includes: work specification means that specifies molding work required for molding of a three-dimensional molding and inspection work required for inspection of the three-dimensional molding on the basis of request information including design data of the three-dimensional molding; device selection means that selects a molding device that can execute the molding work specified by the work specification means and an inspection device that can execute the inspection work specified by the work specification means; and output means that outputs information indicating the molding device and the inspection device selected by the device selection means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a forming management apparatus, a forming management method, and a forming management program. [Background technology]

[0002] A 3D (three dimensions) printer creates a three-dimensional object using 3D design data. As a related technique, for example, Patent Document 1 describes a system that supports a user in appropriately selecting a modeling company. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-166383 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The series of processes involved in the creation of a three-dimensional object includes an inspection process in addition to design and manufacturing. These processes may be performed by different companies. Therefore, when creating a three-dimensional object, it is necessary to manage the series of processes involved in the creation. The system described in Patent Document 1 is intended to assist in the selection of a modeling company. Therefore, the system described in Patent Document 1 cannot be used to manage the series of processes involved in the creation of a three-dimensional object.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a molding management device, a molding management method, and a molding management program that can manage a series of processes related to the molding of a three-dimensional object. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The modeling management device according to the present disclosure includes a task identification means that identifies modeling tasks required to model a three-dimensional object and inspection tasks required to inspect the three-dimensional object based on request information including design data of the three-dimensional object, a device selection means that selects a modeling device capable of performing the modeling tasks identified by the task identification means and an inspection device capable of performing the inspection tasks identified by the task identification means, and an output means that outputs information indicating the modeling device and the inspection device selected by the device selection means.

[0007] The modeling management method disclosed herein identifies modeling tasks required to model a three-dimensional object and inspection tasks required to inspect the three-dimensional object based on request information including design data of the three-dimensional object, selects a modeling device capable of performing the identified modeling tasks and an inspection device capable of performing the identified inspection tasks, and outputs information indicating the selected modeling device and inspection device.

[0008] The modeling management program according to the present disclosure causes a computer to execute a task identification process that identifies modeling tasks required to model a three-dimensional object and inspection tasks required to inspect the three-dimensional object based on request information including design data of the three-dimensional object, a device selection process that selects a modeling device capable of performing the identified modeling tasks and an inspection device capable of performing the identified inspection tasks, and an output process that outputs information indicating the selected modeling device and inspection device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present disclosure, a series of steps relating to the formation of a three-dimensional object can be managed. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the forming management apparatus; [Figure 2] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the forming management apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of an outline of a system to which a forming management apparatus is applied. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a computer. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a main part of a forming management apparatus. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations will be omitted as necessary for clarity. Unless otherwise specified, predetermined values ​​such as predetermined values ​​and threshold values ​​are stored in advance in a storage device accessible from a device that uses the values. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the storage unit is composed of one or any number of storage devices.

[0012] 1 is a block diagram illustrating the functional configuration of a modeling management apparatus according to the present disclosure. The modeling management apparatus 100 of this embodiment includes a reception unit 101, a task specification unit 102, a device selection unit 103, a revision proposal generation unit 104, an information output unit 105, a control data transmission unit 106, a device information update unit 107, a modeling device information storage unit 108, and an inspection device information storage unit 109.

[0013] The receiving unit 101 receives request information related to the formation of a three-dimensional object. The request information includes 3D design data (hereinafter simply referred to as design data) of the three-dimensional object. The design data is used by a modeling device to form the three-dimensional object. The request information may also include user requirements. The user requirements include, for example, “work time,” “delivery location,” “price,” “quality level,” “durability,” and “equipment.” The “work time” specifies, for example, the maximum work time, the delivery date of the finished product, and the shortest time required for completion as a selection condition. The “delivery location” specifies, for example, the location where the finished product is to be delivered as a selection condition. The “price” specifies, for example, the upper limit of the budget as a selection condition. The “quality level” specifies, for example, the quality level of a part or the entire three-dimensional object as a selection condition, and is expressed, for example, in three levels: high, medium, and low. The “durability” specifies, for example, the ability to withstand the environment and period of use, such as 10 years of outdoor use, as a selection condition. "Device" specifies, for example, the manufacturer and model number of a molding device or an inspection device as a selection condition.

[0014] The task identification unit 102 identifies a modeling task required to model a three-dimensional object and an inspection task required to inspect the modeled three-dimensional object, based on the request information received by the receiving unit 101. For example, the task identification unit 102 identifies a modeling task and an inspection task based on design data included in the request information. The task identification unit 102 can identify multiple modeling tasks and multiple inspection tasks. Note that if the request information requests only one of modeling or inspection of a three-dimensional object, the task identification unit 102 may omit identifying the task that is not requested. Hereinafter, when there is no particular distinction between the modeling task and the inspection task identified by the task identification unit 102, they may be collectively referred to as tasks.

[0015] The device selection unit 103 selects a modeling device capable of performing the modeling task identified by the task identification unit 102, and an inspection device capable of performing the inspection task identified by the task identification unit 102. The device selection unit 103 can select multiple modeling devices and multiple inspection devices. Note that, if the request information requests only one of modeling or inspection of a three-dimensional object, the device selection unit 103 may omit selecting the device that is not requested. Hereinafter, when there is no particular distinction between the modeling device and the inspection device selected by the device selection unit 103, they may be collectively referred to as devices.

[0016] Below, an example will be shown in which the task identification unit 102 identifies a task based on request information, and an example will be shown in which the device selection unit 103 selects a device. However, the operations of the task identification unit 102 and the device selection unit 103 are not limited to the examples shown below.

[0017] An example will be described in which the design data specifies the color of a three-dimensional object. In this case, the task specifying unit 102 specifies painting in the specified color as the modeling task required for modeling. Furthermore, the task specifying unit 102 specifies color inspection, which determines whether the paint on the three-dimensional object is in the specified color, as the inspection task required for inspection. Then, the device selecting unit 103 selects a modeling device capable of performing the specified painting task. Furthermore, the device selecting unit 103 selects an inspection device capable of performing the specified color inspection task.

[0018] Next, an example will be described in which the data is design data for a three-dimensional object having mechanical characteristics. In this case, the task specifying unit 102 specifies a mounting and molding task of dedicated mechanical components, etc. as the molding task required for molding. The task specifying unit 102 also specifies a mechanical characteristic inspection task for determining whether the dedicated mechanical components, etc., satisfy the required specifications as the inspection task required for inspection. The device selecting unit 103 then selects a modeling device capable of performing the specified mounting and molding task. The device selecting unit 103 also selects an inspection device capable of performing the specified mechanical characteristic inspection task.

[0019] In addition to the above-mentioned examples, the features of the design data include the design (e.g., gloss and texture), appearance and size (e.g., dimensions and mass) of the three-dimensional object, mechanical elements, electrical elements, etc. The task identification unit 102 identifies the modeling tasks required to model the three-dimensional object and the inspection tasks required to inspect the modeled three-dimensional object, according to the features of the design data.

[0020] Furthermore, the work identification unit 102 can identify a modeling task based on the user's requirements included in the request information. For example, assume that the user's requirements include durability. In this case, the work identification unit 102 identifies a modeling task that corresponds to the required durability. That is, the work identification unit 102 identifies a modeling task that can correspond to the features of the design data and satisfy the required durability. For example, the work identification unit 102 identifies a modeling task that uses a material that enhances durability or a painting task that uses a paint that enhances durability as a modeling task that can satisfy the required durability.

[0021] Furthermore, the task identification unit 102 can identify inspection tasks based on the user's requirements contained in the requirement information. For example, assume that the user's requirements include a quality level. In this case, the task identification unit 102 identifies inspection tasks that correspond to the required quality level. That is, the task identification unit 102 identifies inspection tasks that can be determined to correspond to the characteristics of the design data and satisfy the required quality level.

[0022] Furthermore, the device selection unit 103 can select a modeling device and an inspection device based on the user's requirements included in the request information. For example, assume that the user's requirements include work time and cost. In this case, the device selection unit 103 selects a modeling device and an inspection device taking into account the work time and cost. That is, the device selection unit 103 selects a modeling device or an inspection device that can perform the specified modeling task or inspection task and meet the requested work time and cost.

[0023] In this embodiment, the task identification unit 102 identifies a task based on the design data included in the request information (or the design data included in the request information and the user's requirements). Then, the equipment selection unit 103 selects an equipment based on the identified task (or the identified task and the user's requirements included in the request information). Therefore, in this embodiment, it can be said that the selection conditions for selecting an equipment are identified from the request information. The selection conditions include being able to perform the task identified by the design data and satisfying each of the user's requirements.

[0024] In this embodiment, the apparatus selection unit 103 refers to information about the modeling apparatus stored in the modeling apparatus information storage unit 108, and selects a modeling apparatus that satisfies the selection conditions specified from the request information.

[0025] The molding apparatus information storage unit 108 stores information about molding apparatuses that can be selected by the molding management apparatus 100. The information about the molding apparatus includes, for example, the manufacturer and model number of the molding apparatus, performance and specification information indicating the work that can be performed, installation location information, molding cost information, and molding performance information.

[0026] In this embodiment, the device selection unit 103 refers to information about the inspection devices stored in the inspection device information storage unit 109 and selects an inspection device that satisfies the selection conditions specified from the request information.

[0027] The inspection apparatus information storage unit 109 stores information about inspection apparatuses that can be selected by the forming management apparatus 100. The information about the inspection apparatus includes, for example, the manufacturer and model number of the inspection apparatus, performance and specification information indicating the work that can be performed, installation location information, inspection cost information, inspection performance information, and the like.

[0028] The configuration of the forming management apparatus 100 is not limited to the configuration exemplified in Fig. 1. For example, the forming apparatus information storage unit 108 and the inspection apparatus information storage unit 109 may be configured in an external apparatus different from the forming management apparatus 100. Furthermore, the apparatus selection unit 103 may acquire information from a Web (World Wide Web) site that provides information about forming apparatuses and inspection apparatuses, and use the information to select an apparatus.

[0029] The device selection unit 103 can select a modeling device by taking into account the inspection record information stored in the inspection device information storage unit 109. For example, the inspection record information includes the modeling device used to model the three-dimensional object, the inspection device used for the inspection, and the inspection results. The device selection unit 103 can estimate the actual modeling capacity and degree of deterioration of the modeling device by referring to the inspection record information for each modeling device. As a result, the device selection unit 103 can select a modeling device in good condition from among modeling devices with the same manufacturer, model number, performance, specifications, etc., based on the estimated actual modeling capacity and degree of deterioration of the modeling device.

[0030] Furthermore, the device selection unit 103 can perform a simulation of the modeling work performed by the modeling device and the inspection work performed by the inspection device, and select the modeling device and the inspection device based on the simulation results. In this case, the device selection unit 103 performs the simulation using, for example, digital twin technology. Digital twin technology is a technology that collects information about modeling devices and inspection devices that exist in the real world and reproduces them in a virtual space on a computer. Advanced simulations can be performed by having the modeling device reproduced in the virtual space perform the modeling work and the inspection device perform the inspection work.

[0031] When there is no modeling device or inspection device that satisfies the selection conditions specified by the request information, the revision proposal generation unit 104 generates at least one of a revision proposal for the design data and a revision proposal for the operating parameters of the modeling device. When the request information requests only one of modeling or inspection of a 3D object and only the device that is not requested does not exist, the revision proposal generation unit 104 may omit generating a revision proposal. Note that in this embodiment, when there is no device that satisfies the selection conditions specified by the request information, this means that information indicating a device that satisfies the selection conditions is not stored in the modeling device information storage unit 108 or the inspection device information storage unit 109.

[0032] The revision proposal generating unit 104 generates a revision proposal by modifying the design data so as to satisfy, for example, the selection conditions specified by the request information. For example, there may be a case where a modeling device capable of performing the modeling work specified by the design data does not exist. In this case, the revision proposal generating unit 104 modifies the design data so that the modeling work specified from the modified design data can be performed by a selectable modeling device (for example, a modeling device that satisfies other selection conditions).

[0033] The revision proposal generation unit 104 generates a revision proposal by modifying the operation parameters of the modeling device so as to satisfy, for example, the selection conditions specified by the request information. For example, there are cases where the selection conditions specified by the request information include an upper limit of work time, but the upper limit of work time cannot be satisfied by the standard modeling operation of the modeling device. In this case, the revision proposal generation unit 104 modifies the operation parameters so as to change the standard modeling operation, which models a three-dimensional object of standard quality in a standard time, to a modeling operation, which models a three-dimensional object within an upper limit of work time that is shorter than the standard time (for example, by allowing a deterioration in quality).

[0034] The revision proposal generating unit 104 is not limited to generating a revision proposal that satisfies all of the selection conditions specified by the request information, but may generate a revision proposal that satisfies more selection conditions than before the revision. Furthermore, the revision proposal generating unit 104 may generate a plurality of revision proposals for the design data and a plurality of revision proposals for the operating parameters of the modeling device.

[0035] In this embodiment, if there is no modeling apparatus or inspection apparatus that satisfies the selection conditions specified by the request information, the revision proposal generation unit 104 generates a revision proposal for the design data or the operating parameters of the modeling apparatus. Then, the task identification unit 102 identifies a modeling task and an inspection task based on the generated revision proposal (or a revision proposal adopted by the user from the multiple generated revision proposals). Furthermore, the device selection unit 103 selects a modeling apparatus capable of performing the modeling task and an inspection apparatus capable of performing the inspection task specified by the revision proposal. That is, the device selection unit 103 selects a modeling apparatus and an inspection apparatus based on the revision proposal. However, the configuration of the modeling management apparatus 100 is not limited to this configuration. For example, if there is no device that satisfies all of the selection conditions specified by the request information, the device selection unit 103 may select a device that satisfies more of the selection conditions (or satisfies some of the selection conditions). Then, the information output unit 105 may output information indicating the device selected by the device selection unit 103 and the device selected based on the revision proposal.

[0036] The information output unit 105 outputs information indicating the modeling apparatus and the inspection apparatus selected by the apparatus selection unit 103. For example, the information output unit 105 outputs and stores the information indicating the modeling apparatus and the inspection apparatus selected by the apparatus selection unit 103 in a storage unit (not shown) of the modeling management apparatus 100 or an external device. Also, for example, the information output unit 105 outputs and displays the information indicating the modeling apparatus and the inspection apparatus selected by the apparatus selection unit 103 to a display device (not shown) such as a display device.

[0037] The information output by the information output unit 105 may include information about the selected modeling device (e.g., the manufacturer and model number of the modeling device, performance and specification information indicating the work that can be performed, installation location information, modeling cost information, modeling track record information, etc.). In addition, the information output by the information output unit 105 may include information about the selected inspection device (e.g., the manufacturer and model number of the inspection device, performance and specification information indicating the work that can be performed, installation location information, inspection cost information, inspection track record information, etc.).

[0038] The information output unit 105 may output information indicating the modeling task and the inspection task identified by the task identifying unit 102. Furthermore, the information output unit 105 may output information indicating the revision proposal generated by the revision proposal generating unit 104.

[0039] The information output unit 105 can output information indicating a plurality of modeling apparatuses and a plurality of inspection apparatuses. The modeling management apparatus 100 may be configured to select one modeling apparatus and one inspection apparatus from the selected plurality of modeling apparatuses and one inspection apparatus, based on an input operation by the user. Furthermore, the information output unit 105 can output information indicating a plurality of revision proposals generated by the revision proposal generating unit 104. The modeling management apparatus 100 may be configured to select a revision proposal to be adopted from the generated plurality of revision proposals, based on an input operation by the user.

[0040] The "user input operation" specifically refers to an operation in which a user inputs commands or information to the forming management apparatus 100 using an input device (not shown) such as a keyboard, a mouse, or a touch panel. Executing a process in accordance with the commands or information input by such an input operation is referred to as "executing a process based on a user input operation."

[0041] The control data transmitting unit 106 transmits control data for controlling the selected device (for example, a device finally selected based on a user's input operation) via a network such as the Internet. The control data transmitting unit 106 transmits control data for causing the selected modeling device to perform the specified modeling operation. The control data transmitting unit 106 also transmits control data for causing the selected inspection device to perform the specified inspection operation. The control data transmitting unit 106 may transmit corresponding control data in response to receiving a transmission request via the network from the modeling device or the inspection device.

[0042] The control data transmission unit 106 may transmit the control data to a system that manages the selected device. The control data transmission unit 106 may also transmit request information together with the control data. The control data transmitted by the control data transmission unit 106 may be data for controlling the device, or may be data for controlling a robot that operates the device. The control data transmitted by the control data transmission unit 106 is generated by, for example, the task identification unit 102.

[0043] The apparatus information update unit 107 updates the information stored in the modeling apparatus information storage unit 108. The apparatus information update unit 107 also updates the information stored in the inspection apparatus information storage unit 109.

[0044] For example, in response to a user's input operation, the device information update unit 107 stores the latest information about the device in the modeling device information storage unit 108 or the inspection device information storage unit 109. Alternatively, the device information update unit 107 may obtain the latest information from a website that provides information about modeling devices and inspection devices, and store the information in the modeling device information storage unit 108 or the inspection device information storage unit 109. Alternatively, the device information update unit 107 may receive modeling performance information transmitted via a network by a modeling device that performed a modeling operation, and store the information in the modeling device information storage unit 108. Alternatively, the device information update unit 107 may receive inspection performance information transmitted via a network by an inspection device that performed an inspection operation, and store the information in the inspection device information storage unit 109.

[0045] Next, a description will be given of the operation of the formation management apparatus 100. Fig. 2 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the formation management apparatus.

[0046] The receiving unit 101 receives request information related to the formation of a three-dimensional object (step S1). The request information includes design data of the three-dimensional object and user requirements.

[0047] Next, the task specifying unit 102 specifies a modeling task required to model the three-dimensional object and an inspection task required to inspect the three-dimensional object, based on the request information received by the receiving unit 101 (step S2).

[0048] Next, the device selection unit 103 selects a modeling device capable of performing the modeling task identified by the task identification unit 102 and an inspection device capable of performing the inspection task identified by the task identification unit 102, based on the request information (step S3). In step S3, the device selection unit 103 can select a modeling device and an inspection device, taking into account the user's requirements included in the request information. In addition, the device selection unit 103 can select a modeling device and an inspection device, taking into account information about the devices (e.g., modeling performance information and inspection performance information).

[0049] Next, the forming management apparatus 100 (for example, the apparatus selection unit 103 or the revision proposal generation unit 104 of the forming management apparatus 100) determines whether or not forming or inspection that satisfies the user's request is possible (Step S4). That is, the forming management apparatus 100 determines whether or not at least one forming apparatus and one inspection apparatus that satisfy the selection conditions specified by the request information have been selected.

[0050] If the modeling or inspection that satisfies the user's request is not possible, that is, if at least one of a modeling device and an inspection device that satisfies the selection conditions specified by the request information does not exist, the revision proposal generator 104 generates a revision proposal (step S5). In step S5, the revision proposal generator 104 generates at least one of a revision proposal for the design data and a revision proposal for the operating parameters of the modeling device. After that, the modeling management device 100 proceeds to step S2.

[0051] If modeling or inspection that satisfies the user's request is possible, the information output unit 105 outputs information indicating the modeling apparatus and the inspection apparatus selected by the apparatus selection unit 103 (step S6). For example, the information output unit 105 outputs the information indicating the modeling apparatus and the inspection apparatus to a storage unit (not shown) of the modeling management apparatus 100 or an external device and stores it therein. Also, for example, the information output unit 105 outputs the information indicating the modeling apparatus and the inspection apparatus to a display device (not shown) such as a display device to display it thereon.

[0052] Next, the control data transmitting unit 106 transmits control data for controlling the selected device to the selected device via a network such as the Internet (step S7).

[0053] 2 does not limit the operation of the object-forming management apparatus 100 of the present disclosure. For example, the process of step S7 may be executed in response to receiving a transmission request from the object-forming apparatus or the inspection apparatus, rather than immediately after step S6. Furthermore, for example, if the revision plan generated in step S5 does not involve changing the object-forming operation and the inspection operation identified in step S2, the object-forming management apparatus 100 may proceed to step S3 after the process of step S5.

[0054] 2 does not include a process in which the apparatus information update unit 107 updates the information stored in the forming apparatus information storage unit 108 or the inspection apparatus information storage unit 109. These processes are executed at any timing, such as when a user performs an input operation, or when forming performance information or inspection performance information is received.

[0055] Next, an outline of a system to which the forming management apparatus of this embodiment is applied will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an outline of a system to which the forming management apparatus is applied. Note that FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for facilitating understanding of the outline of a system to which the forming management apparatus is applied. Therefore, the configuration and operation of a system to which the forming management apparatus is applied are not limited to those shown in FIG. 3. Furthermore, the arrows in FIG. 3 simply indicate the direction of flow of signals (data) or objects (finished products), but do not exclude bidirectionality.

[0056] Fig. 3 shows a series of steps for forming a three-dimensional object, including design, manufacturing, and inspection. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the design, manufacturing, and inspection steps are performed by different companies. A user manages the manufacturing and inspection steps using the object forming management apparatus 100.

[0057] It should be noted that the series of steps for forming a three-dimensional object does not have to be performed by a professional. For example, it is expected that 3D printers will become as widespread as 2D (two-dimensions) printers. In this case, instead of purchasing a finished product, users will be able to purchase 3D design data and operate 3D printers installed in convenience stores and perform the object creation themselves. The forming management apparatus 100 can also be applied to such cases. Therefore, not limited to the example shown in FIG. 3, some or all of the design, manufacturing, and inspection steps may be performed by the user.

[0058] A user purchases 3D design data for a three-dimensional object through an intermediary site. For example, a user terminal such as a personal computer executes a purchase process for the 3D design data in response to an input operation by the user. The design firm then provides the 3D design data to the user through the intermediary site. For example, a server in a system providing design services transmits the 3D design data to the user terminal.

[0059] The method by which a user obtains design data is not limited to the flow exemplified in Fig. 3. For example, a user may purchase design data from a design firm via the forming management apparatus 100. Alternatively, for example, a design firm may provide design data to a user via the forming management apparatus 100. In this case, the forming management apparatus 100 may provide a user who is considering purchasing design data with information indicating a forming apparatus or an inspection apparatus that can handle the design data, along with the design data that is available for purchase.

[0060] A user provides the forming management apparatus 100 with request information including 3D design data and requirements such as functions, appearance, price, distance, etc. For example, a user terminal inputs the request information to the forming management apparatus 100 in response to an input operation by the user. Then, the operation specifying unit 102 of the forming management apparatus 100 specifies a forming operation required to form a three-dimensional object and an inspection operation required to inspect the formed three-dimensional object, based on the request information. Furthermore, the apparatus selecting unit 103 of the forming management apparatus 100 selects a forming apparatus capable of performing the specified forming operation and an inspection apparatus capable of performing the specified inspection operation, based on the request information. The forming management apparatus 100 may select one forming apparatus and one inspection apparatus, or may select multiple apparatuses and then select one of each in response to an input operation by the user.

[0061] For example, the forming management device 100 selects a forming device managed by contractor A and an inspection device managed by contractor B, which is different from contractor A. Also, for example, the forming management device 100 selects a forming device installed in store A and an inspection device installed in store B, which is different from store A. Note that the forming management device 100 may select, for example, a forming device and an inspection device managed by contractor A, or a forming device and an inspection device installed in store A.

[0062] The object-forming management device 100 causes the finally selected object-forming device to perform the specified object-forming task as a requested task. For example, the object-forming management device 100 transmits control data for performing the specified object-forming task along with request information to the selected object-forming device (or a server of a system that provides a service using the object-forming device). Then, the object-forming device performs the object-forming task based on the control data. If a start operation or the like is required for the object-forming device to start the object-forming task, for example, a manufacturer that manages the object-forming device performs the start operation or the like. Alternatively, for example, a user may visit the installation location of the object-forming device to perform the start operation or the like, or may perform the start operation or the like remotely via a network.

[0063] The three-dimensional object formed by the modeling device is transported to a location where the selected inspection device is installed. For example, the manufacturer sends the three-dimensional object to an inspection company that manages the inspection device. Alternatively, for example, a user may carry the three-dimensional object and move to the location where the inspection device is installed.

[0064] Furthermore, the object-forming management apparatus 100 causes the finally selected inspection device to perform the specified inspection work as a requested work. For example, the object-forming management apparatus 100 transmits control data for performing the specified inspection work along with request information to the selected inspection device (or a server of a system that provides a service using the inspection device). Then, the inspection device performs the inspection work based on the control data. If a start operation is required for the inspection device to start the inspection work, the start operation is performed, for example, by an inspection company that manages the inspection device. Also, for example, a user may visit the installation location of the inspection device to perform the start operation, or the start operation may be performed remotely via a network. The three-dimensional object after the inspection work by the inspection device is delivered to the user as a finished product.

[0065] After completing the work, the molding apparatus and the inspection apparatus transmit, as feedback, molding performance information or inspection performance information to the molding management apparatus 100. The apparatus information update unit 107 of the molding management apparatus 100 updates the information stored in the molding apparatus information storage unit 108 or the inspection apparatus information storage unit 109 based on the received information.

[0066] Next, the effects of this embodiment will be described. In this embodiment, the task specifying unit 102 specifies the modeling tasks required to model the three-dimensional object and the inspection tasks required to inspect the modeled three-dimensional object, based on request information including design data of the three-dimensional object and user requirements. Furthermore, the device selecting unit 103 selects a modeling device capable of performing the specified modeling tasks and an inspection device capable of performing the specified inspection tasks, based on the request information. Then, the information output unit 105 outputs information indicating the selected modeling device and inspection device. This configuration makes it possible to select a modeling device and an inspection device that satisfy the selection conditions specified by the request information. As a result, the user can optimally manage a series of processes related to the modeling of a three-dimensional object.

[0067] In this embodiment, the task specifying unit 102 specifies an inspection task according to the characteristics of the design data and the user's requirements. The equipment selecting unit 103 then selects an inspection device that can perform the specified inspection task and that satisfies the user's requirements. This configuration ensures that the user's requirements, such as the quality they desire for a three-dimensional object, are met. As a result, the user can effectively manage a series of processes related to the creation of a three-dimensional object.

[0068] In this embodiment, when there is no modeling device or inspection device that satisfies the selection conditions specified by the request information, the revision proposal generator 104 generates at least one of a revision proposal for the design data and a revision proposal for the operating parameters of the modeling device. This configuration increases the number of selectable devices and increases the possibility of meeting the user's request.

[0069] 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a computer according to the present disclosure. A CPU 1000 executes processing in accordance with a forming management program stored in a storage device 1001, thereby realizing each function of the forming management apparatus 100 in the above-described embodiment.

[0070] That is, the CPU 1000 executes processing in accordance with the molding management program stored in the memory device 1001, thereby realizing the functions of the reception unit 101, work identification unit 102, device selection unit 103, revision proposal generation unit 104, information output unit 105, control data transmission unit 106 and device information update unit 107 of the molding management device 100 shown in FIG. 1.

[0071] The storage device 1001 is, for example, a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The non-transitory computer-readable medium includes various types of tangible storage media. Specific examples of the non-transitory computer-readable medium include semiconductor memory (e.g., mask ROM, PROM (Programmable ROM), EPROM (Erasable PROM), and flash ROM).

[0072] The memory 1002 is realized by, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), and is a storage means for temporarily storing data when the CPU 1000 executes processing.

[0073] Next, an overview of the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of main components of a modeling management apparatus. The modeling management apparatus 10 (e.g., corresponding to the modeling management apparatus 100) shown in FIG. 5 includes: task identification means 11 (realized by a task identification unit 102 in the embodiment) that identifies modeling tasks required to model a three-dimensional object and inspection tasks required to inspect the three-dimensional object based on request information including design data (e.g., 3D design data) of the three-dimensional object; device selection means 12 (realized by a device selection unit 103 in the embodiment) that selects a modeling apparatus capable of performing the modeling tasks identified by the task identification means 11 and an inspection apparatus capable of performing the inspection tasks identified by the task identification means 11; and output means 13 (realized by an information output unit 105 in the embodiment) that outputs information indicating the modeling apparatus and the inspection apparatus selected by the device selection means 12. This configuration makes it possible to select a modeling apparatus and an inspection apparatus that satisfy the selection conditions identified by the request information. As a result, the user can conveniently manage a series of steps related to the creation of a three-dimensional object.

[0074] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present disclosure within the scope of the present disclosure. Each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0075] Each drawing is merely an example for describing one or more embodiments. Each drawing may relate not only to one particular embodiment, but also to one or more other embodiments. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, various features or steps described with reference to any one drawing can be combined with features or steps shown in one or more other drawings to create, for example, an embodiment not explicitly shown or described. Not all features or steps shown in any one drawing are necessary to describe an exemplary embodiment, and some features or steps may be omitted. The order of steps described in any drawing may be changed as appropriate.

[0076] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0077] (Appendix 1) an operation specifying means for specifying a modeling operation required for modeling the three-dimensional object and an inspection operation required for inspecting the three-dimensional object, based on requirement information including design data of the three-dimensional object; an apparatus selection unit that selects a modeling apparatus capable of performing the modeling operation identified by the operation identification unit and an inspection apparatus capable of performing the inspection operation identified by the operation identification unit; an output unit that outputs information indicating the modeling apparatus and the inspection apparatus selected by the apparatus selection unit; A forming management device characterized by:

[0078] (Appendix 2) The requirement information includes a user requirement, The device selection means selects a modeling device and an inspection device based on the request information. 10. The molding control device of claim 1.

[0079] (Appendix 3) the request information includes information indicating a quality level of the three-dimensional object; The task specifying means specifies an inspection task according to a quality level. 3. The manufacturing management device according to claim 1 or 2.

[0080] (Appendix 4) The device selection means performs a simulation of a modeling operation by a modeling device and an inspection operation by an inspection device, and selects a modeling device and an inspection device based on a simulation result. 4. A forming management apparatus according to claim 1.

[0081] (Appendix 5) The device selection means performs a simulation using digital twin technology. 5. The molding control device according to claim 4.

[0082] (Appendix 6) and a modification proposal generating means for generating, when at least one of a modeling apparatus and an inspection apparatus that satisfy the selection conditions specified by the request information does not exist, a modification proposal for the design data and / or a modification proposal for the operating parameters of the modeling apparatus. 6. A shaping management apparatus according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 5.

[0083] (Appendix 7) The device selection means selects a modeling device and an inspection device based on the revision plan generated by the revision plan generation means. 7. The molding control device according to claim 6.

[0084] (Appendix 8) The output means outputs information indicating the revision proposal generated by the revision proposal generating means. 7. The molding control device according to claim 6.

[0085] (Appendix 9) The computer Identifying a modeling operation required to model the three-dimensional object and an inspection operation required to inspect the three-dimensional object based on requirement information including design data of the three-dimensional object; selecting a modeling device capable of performing the specified modeling work and an inspection device capable of performing the specified inspection work; Output information indicating the selected modeling device and inspection device A molding management method characterized by:

[0086] (Appendix 10) On the computer, an operation specification process for specifying a modeling operation required for modeling the three-dimensional object and an inspection operation required for inspecting the three-dimensional object, based on requirement information including design data of the three-dimensional object; an apparatus selection process for selecting a modeling apparatus capable of performing the specified modeling operation and an inspection apparatus capable of performing the specified inspection operation; An output process for outputting information indicating the selected modeling device and inspection device. A modeling management program for executing the process.

[0087] Some or all of the elements (e.g., configurations and functions) described in Supplementary Notes 2 to 8 that are dependent on Supplementary Note 1 may also be dependent on Supplementary Notes 9 and 10 in the same dependency relationship as Supplementary Notes 2 to 8. Some or all of the elements described in any Supplementary Note may be applied to various hardware, software, recording means for recording software, systems, and methods. [Explanation of symbols]

[0088] 10,100 Forming management device 11 Work identification means 12 Equipment selection means 13 Output Method 101 Reception 102 Work Specification Department 103 Equipment selection department 104 Amendment generator 105 Information output section 106 Control data transmission unit 107 Device information update section 108 Printing device information storage unit 109 Inspection device information storage unit 1000 CPU 1001 Storage device 1002 memory

Claims

1. an operation specifying means for specifying a modeling operation required for modeling the three-dimensional object and an inspection operation required for inspecting the three-dimensional object, based on requirement information including design data of the three-dimensional object; an apparatus selection unit that selects a modeling apparatus capable of performing the modeling operation identified by the operation identification unit and an inspection apparatus capable of performing the inspection operation identified by the operation identification unit; an output unit that outputs information indicating the modeling apparatus and the inspection apparatus selected by the apparatus selection unit; A forming management device characterized by:

2. The requirement information includes a user requirement, The device selection means selects a modeling device and an inspection device based on the request information. The forming management apparatus according to claim 1.

3. the request information includes information indicating a quality level of the three-dimensional object; The task specifying means specifies an inspection task according to a quality level.

3. The molding management apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The device selection means performs a simulation of a modeling operation by a modeling device and an inspection operation by an inspection device, and selects a modeling device and an inspection device based on a simulation result.

3. The molding management apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The device selection means performs a simulation using digital twin technology. The molding management apparatus according to claim 4.

6. and a modification proposal generating means for generating, when at least one of a modeling apparatus and an inspection apparatus that satisfy the selection conditions specified by the request information does not exist, a modification proposal for the design data and / or a modification proposal for the operating parameters of the modeling apparatus.

3. The molding management apparatus according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The device selection means selects a modeling device and an inspection device based on the revision plan generated by the revision plan generation means. The forming management apparatus according to claim 6.

8. The output means outputs information indicating the revision proposal generated by the revision proposal generating means. The forming management apparatus according to claim 6.

9. The computer Identifying a modeling operation required to model the three-dimensional object and an inspection operation required to inspect the three-dimensional object based on requirement information including design data of the three-dimensional object; selecting a modeling device capable of performing the specified modeling work and an inspection device capable of performing the specified inspection work; Output information indicating the selected modeling device and inspection device A molding management method characterized by:

10. On the computer, an operation specification process for specifying a modeling operation required for modeling the three-dimensional object and an inspection operation required for inspecting the three-dimensional object, based on requirement information including design data of the three-dimensional object; an apparatus selection process for selecting a modeling apparatus capable of performing the specified modeling operation and an inspection apparatus capable of performing the specified inspection operation; An output process for outputting information indicating the selected modeling device and inspection device. A modeling management program for executing the process.

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