Packaging machine and event monitoring program of packaging machine

Abstract

To solve the problem that as troubles in a packaging machine may be caused by a wide variety of factors, it is insufficient for a service person to scrambling to the site and dealing with the trouble, therefore, in need of countermeasures capable of trouble-shooting and restoration in an early stage.SOLUTION: A packaging machine includes imaging means, event detection means, and control means. The imaging means images packaging processing of the packaging machine. The event detection means detects an event related to the packaging machine. In the case where an event occurs, the control means outputs, to recording means, a start command of recording imaged data in association with the event.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a packaging machine and an event monitoring program for the packaging machine. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Packaging machines that wrap items by folding a film are known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-057004 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The packaging machine described above has measures in place to prevent the film from getting caught or stuck on the feeding member. However, problems in packaging machines are not limited to the film feeding mechanism, but can occur throughout the machinery, including the transport mechanism for the packaged item and the packaging mechanism that encases the film. In addition, the causes of problems are diverse, including human error due to improper operation by the operator. Once an error occurs, the operator often cannot determine the problem, and recovery often requires time, including the need to start by investigating the cause. Currently, a service technician is dispatched to the site to respond, but it can take time for the technician to arrive, making it insufficient in terms of prompt response. Therefore, there was a need for a solution that would allow the equipment to be restored quickly and the problem to be resolved. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] In view of the above problems, the present invention has at least the following configuration. A packaging machine comprising an imaging means, an event detection means, and a control means, wherein the imaging means captures images of the packaging process of the packaging machine, the event detection means detects events related to the packaging machine, and when an event occurs, the control means associates the captured data with the event and outputs a command to start recording to a storage means. Here, the packaging process of the packaging machine is not limited to the process of wrapping the film, but is understood in a broad sense to include processes controlled by the packaging machine, such as the transport process of the packaged item and the film feeding process. Furthermore, the event detection means may be a detection means for detecting the occurrence of a problem, or a human operation, such as an operator operating a start switch when they sense that a problem may have occurred, and is understood in a broad sense as anything related to a problem. Furthermore, recording captured data in association with an event means recording the captured data so that it includes event information (such as information about when and where the event occurred). Furthermore, the packaging machine is required to record captured data in a recording means, and the storage means does not necessarily have to be provided within the packaging machine. In other words, the storage means may be a storage medium located near the packaging machine and connected to the packaging machine, or it may be located in a remote location via a wired or wireless communication line. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a packaging machine. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a conceptual side view showing an example of a packaging machine. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a front conceptual view showing an example of a packaging machine. [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective view illustrating an example of a packaging machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an electrical function block of the packaging machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6]10 is an example of a screen for performing image capture settings in the packaging machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 10 is an example of a product registration screen on which a video recording confirmation button icon is provided in the packaging machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a history confirmation screen for recorded data in the packaging machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] 10 is an example of a screen displaying items of video files in the packaging machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10 is an example of a screen for selecting whether or not to transfer video recording data in the packaging machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing the mechanism of a recording operation. [Figure 12] 10 is an example of a recorded and played back image when an abnormality occurs in the packaging machine according to the embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 10 is an example of a monitoring image when monitoring with an external device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] A packaging machine according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises an imaging means, an event detection means, and a control means, wherein the imaging means captures images of the packaging process of the packaging machine, the event detection means detects an event that occurs during the packaging process, and when an event occurs during the packaging process, the control means associates the captured data with the event and records it in a storage means.

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. The embodiment of the present invention includes, but is not limited to, the contents shown in the drawings. In the following description of each drawing, parts that are common to parts already described will be assigned the same reference numerals, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0009] (Configuration of packaging machine) FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an example of a packaging machine 100 as a premise. The packaging machine 100 packages an item to be packaged (food products, etc.) using a film such as a stretched film. In detail, the packaging machine 100 has a main body 100B including a packaging unit b, and a display operation unit 39 is provided at the upper front of the main body 100B. The display operation unit 39 includes an operation unit including a keyboard, touch panel, etc., and a display unit including a liquid crystal display device, etc. The operation unit is used for inputting various data and commands. The display unit displays input data, preset data, and various messages based on commands from the CPU. This display operation unit 39 is also known as a console unit.

[0010] A conveying section 110 is provided in front of the main body 100B of the packaging machine 100, and the packaged items are sent from the conveying section 110 into the packaging machine 100 via the weighing section 50. A guide section 4 for sending out film is provided on the left side of the main body 100B of the packaging machine 100. Furthermore, a packaging section b for wrapping the packaged items in film is provided inside and above the main body 100B of the packaging machine 100. The packaging machine 100 is responsible for the coordinated operations of the conveying unit 110, weighing unit 50, guide unit 4, and packaging unit b. The conveying unit 110 introduces the packaged items placed on its conveying surface into the main body unit 100B by conveying them in the conveying direction (from front to rear in the example shown in FIG. 1). The guide unit 4 unwinds the film from a film roll set in a film roll arrangement unit provided in the main body unit 100B of the packaging machine, and delivers the film via a film holding unit to a pair of film gripping units (film feed mechanisms). These film gripping units then clamp both side edges of the film in the width direction while transporting the film and supplying it to packaging unit b. Then, in packaging unit b, the packaged items (products) conveyed by the conveying unit are pushed up by elevator 2 toward the film whose both side edges are clamped, and film packaging is performed.

[0011] Fig. 2 is a schematic side view showing an example of the packaging machine 100. Fig. 3 is a schematic front view showing an example of the packaging machine 100.

[0012] The packaging machine 100 is configured such that the packaged article w conveyed to the main body 100B is conveyed by the conveying section 110 to an elevator 2 serving as an elevating device. A packaging unit b is provided above the elevator 2. The packaging unit b is provided with a film holding means (movable holding mechanism 401) that holds the leading end of the film F (stretchable film; stretch film) that is unwound from the film roll FR set in the film roll arrangement unit FH. As shown in Fig. 3, the film F unwound from the film roll FR is held by the film holding means (movable holding mechanism 401) via a roller R1.

[0013] A cutting unit 9 such as a cutter that cuts the film F is provided near the film holding means (movable holding mechanism 401). A guide unit 4 is detachably provided on the film holding means (movable holding mechanism 401). The movable holding mechanism 401 is configured to be movable horizontally together with the guide unit 4 toward the film gripping unit 5. Also provided is a film holding means (movable holding mechanism 301) that holds the leading edge of the film unwound from the film roll FR3 set in the film roll arrangement section FH3. The type of film in the film roll FR3 is different from the type of film F in the film roll FR. The film F unwound from the film roll FR3 is held by the film holding means (movable holding mechanism 301) via roller R3. A guide unit 3 is detachably provided on the film holding means (movable holding mechanism 301). The movable holding mechanism 301 is configured to be movable horizontally together with the guide unit 3 toward the film gripping unit 5. In addition, the holding and movable mechanism part 401 and the guide part 4, and the holding and movable mechanism part 301 and the guide part 3 are configured to be movable up and down, and the type of film can be switched by the drive mechanism (switching part) that performs the up and down movement.

[0014] More specifically, holding movable mechanism 401 serving as film holding means has upper holding movable mechanism 401T and lower holding movable mechanism 401B. As will be described later, upper holding movable mechanism 401T is provided with detachable front upper guide 4FT and rear upper guide 4RT as guide unit 4. Furthermore, lower holding movable mechanism 401B is provided with detachable front lower guide 4FB and rear lower guide 4RB as guide unit 4. In addition, the holding movable mechanism part 301 as a film holding means is specifically provided with an upper holding movable mechanism part 301T, a lower holding movable mechanism part 301B, and guide parts 3 including a front upper guide part 3FT, a rear upper guide part 3RT, a front lower guide part 3FB, and a rear lower guide part 3RB, and has substantially the same structure as the holding movable mechanism part 401, so description thereof will be omitted.

[0015] A pair of front and rear film gripping sections 5 (front film gripping section, rear film gripping section) consisting of upper and lower conveyor belts 5B (upper conveyor belt 5BT, lower conveyor belt 5BB) that clamp and pull out the leading edge of film F held by the film holding means and transport it to packaging section b are arranged close to the leading edge of the film holding means. In addition, a solenoid is provided in the film gripping section as drive means for repeatedly gripping and unclipsing the film.

[0016] A cutting unit 9 is disposed between the film holding means and the film gripping unit 5, and cuts the film F, which is held and pulled out by the film gripping unit 5, to a predetermined length. The film F is stretched by the film gripping unit 5 of the packaging unit b. Furthermore, the film gripping section 5 (film feed mechanism) is provided on the main body 100B so as to be movable in the width direction of the film F, and the tip (tip on the guide section side) of the film gripping section 5 has an opening / closing mechanism 5C that can clamp the tip of the film F. This opening / closing mechanism 5C consists of a moving section 5Ca and a fixed section 5Cb for gripping the film F. The moving section 5Ca is configured to be movable up and down toward the film transport plane (above the fixed section 5Cb). In more detail, the film F placed between the moving section 5Ca and the fixed section 5Cb can be clamped by the moving section 5Ca and the fixed section 5Cb.

[0017] Each of the movable holding mechanisms is equipped with a mechanism called a dancer roller RT or RT3 along the film supply path to maintain uniform film tension. Each movable holding mechanism moves back and forth to supply the film to the film gripping unit 5, which then transports the film. As described above, when the movable holding mechanism moves back and forth or when the film gripping unit 5 transports the film, transient loads are applied to the film, potentially resulting in film breakage. When such transient loads are applied to the film, the dancer rollers RT or RT3 move away from the film, absorbing the transient load and reducing the load on the film. Furthermore, when the aforementioned movement back and forth or film transport stops, the inertia can pull out a large amount of film, causing sagging. Such sagging can cause the film to come into contact with other films or equipment structures, resulting in film transport problems. In situations where such sagging is possible, the dancer rollers RT or RT3 move toward the film, applying tension to the film to reduce the sagging.

[0018] In addition, when the movable holding mechanism is moved up or down by the drive mechanism (switching unit), a mechanism is also provided to move the initial position of the dancer rollers themselves. Specifically, when the movable holding mechanism is raised, each of the dancer rollers rises in conjunction with this rise, and their initial positions become the upper positions. Similarly, when the movable holding mechanism is lowered, each of the dancer rollers falls in conjunction with this lowering, and their initial positions become the lower positions. The reason for moving the initial positions of the dancer rollers RT and RT3 up and down in this way is that if the film roll placement units FH and FH3 do not rise as the movable holding mechanism rises, the distance between the movable holding mechanism and the film roll increases, causing the film to be pulled out as it rises. Simply pulling out the film does not cause a problem, but if the movable holding mechanism falls again after being pulled out, the amount of film that was previously pulled out will become slack, and as mentioned above, it may come into contact with other films or the device structure, causing transport problems. Therefore, when the drive mechanism (switching unit) raises the dancer rollers to a position higher than their initial position, reducing film pull-out caused by the increased distance between the movable holding mechanism and the film roll. Reducing film pull-out reduces the amount of film slack that occurs when the movable holding mechanism descends, creating a situation in which the aforementioned transport problems are less likely to occur.

[0019] In addition, above the film gripping section 5, the packaging machine 100 is provided with left and right folding plates 6, a rear folding plate 7, a pusher (not shown), and the like.

[0020] In the packaging machine 100, the packaged item w placed on the elevator 2 is pushed up against the film F stretched across the packaging section b as the elevator 2 rises, and the left, right and rear ends of the stretched film F are folded onto the bottom of the packaged item w using the left and right folding plates 6 and the rear folding plate 7.Then, while pushing the packaged item w horizontally with a pusher, the ends of the film F are folded with a front folding roller (not shown), and the film-packaged product is pushed to the rear of the main body section 100B with the pusher.

[0021] The packaging machine 100 is equipped with a plurality of guide sections, and in the example shown in Fig. 3, has an upper guide section 4 (also referred to as upper guide section 4) and a lower guide section (referred to as lower guide section 3). The lower guide section 3 has substantially the same configuration as the upper guide section 4, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted. As described above, the upper guide portion 4 and the lower guide portion 3 are configured to be movable up and down by the switching portion, and are configured to be switchable for use. An upper guide film roll placement unit FH and a lower guide film roll placement unit FH3 are provided corresponding to the upper guide unit 4 and the lower guide unit 3, respectively, and hold film rolls FR and FR3. In other words, the packaging machine 100 shown in Fig. 3 is configured to allow switching between two films, thereby reducing the time required for film replacement and increasing packaging capacity per unit time. Furthermore, for example, by setting a large film in one film roll placement section and a small film in the other film roll placement section, the film can be switched by moving the elevator 2 up and down, without the need for time to change films as in the past.

[0022] In the example shown in Figure 3, the upper guide section 4 is at the same height as the film gripping section 5, and packaging processing is performed using the film sent out from the upper guide section 4. At this time, the lower guide section 3 is in a state of being sunk to a position lower than the upper guide section 4. However, even if the two guide sections 4, 3 move up and down by the elevator 2, the positions of the two film roll placement sections FH, FH3 do not change. When the lower guide section 3 is used, the upper guide section 4 rises to a position higher than the position of the film gripping section 5, and the height position of the lower guide section 3 becomes the same height position as the film gripping section 5.

[0023] As can be easily understood from the above explanation, the guide section 4 of the packaging machine 100, which is the premise of the present invention, performs various switching operations on various internal mechanisms (e.g., switching between the upper guide section 4 and the lower guide section 3), which can lead to various problems. Furthermore, the film gripping section 5 has the potential for problems such as film sagging and breakage. Therefore, the configuration of the packaging machine 100, which is the premise of the present invention, has already been designed to prevent such problems. However, problems are not limited to those caused by the guide section. For example, if a packaged item being transported on the belt conveyor upstream of the conveying section 110 wobbles and is not sufficiently damped before being sent to the packaging section b, serious problems can occur when the lifting device pushes up the packaged item and wraps it in film. Furthermore, when multiple problems occur, it often takes a significant amount of time to determine the cause. Therefore, in the packaging machine 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention, an imaging means and the necessary accompanying means are added, thereby enabling quick resolution of the problem and recovery.

[0024] (Configuration of packaging machine capable of recording events) 4 is a perspective view showing an example of a packaging machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. However, the camera is positioned as an explanatory diagram with an emphasized illustration superimposed on it to make the placement position of the camera easier to understand. A conveying section 110 is provided in front of the main body 100B of the packaging machine 100, and the items to be packaged are sent from the conveying section 110 into the packaging machine 100 via the weighing section 50, while a guide section 4 provided on the left side of the main body 100B of the packaging machine 100 sends out a film. The items to be packaged are then pushed up by an elevator 2 (not shown) provided inside the main body 100B of the packaging machine 100, and in packaging section b above and inside the main body 100B, the film is folded and the items are packaged.

[0025] In the packaging machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention, imaging devices 200 are disposed in three locations: in front of the conveying unit 110, above the film feed mechanism, and above packaging unit b. While these are illustrated as large cameras to make their locations easier to understand, the imaging devices 200 are actually small devices such as image sensors, and do not interfere with the objects being transported by the conveying unit 110, do not interfere with the film feed, and do not impede the packaging process in packaging unit b. In packaging unit b, the top panel of the main body 100B is open so that the position of the imaging device 200 can be seen, but of course the top panel is closed during operation of the packaging machine 100. Furthermore, although the packaging machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated as having the imaging device 200 attached to the housing of the device, it may also be attached to the underside of the top panel. In short, the imaging device 200 can be installed in any location and in any manner as long as it does not interfere with the transport or packaging process and allows observation. The imaging device 200 can also be configured to be detachable. Furthermore, as will be described later, a general-purpose photographing means such as a smartphone camera may be detachably attached.

[0026] The imaging means 200 on the front side of the conveying section 110 captures with one camera both the state of the packaged items being conveyed by the conveying section 110 and the state of the elevator 2 inside the packaging machine 100 pushing up the packaged items. In other words, it is configured to capture images of the posture of the product as it passes through the conveying section 110 and the weighing section 50 and is sent to the location where the elevator 2 is located. Referring to Figure 2, the camera is positioned to look into the inside of the main body section 100B from the front side at a height position that is exactly at the position marked "conveying direction."

[0027] The imaging means 200 of the film feed section (including the guide section 4 and film gripping section 5 of the packaging machine 100) uses a single camera to capture images of the movement and operation of the film gripping section 5 as it grips and pulls out the leading edge of the film F held by the film holding means of the packaging machine 100 and transports it to the packaging section b. In other words, it is configured to capture images of the movement of the film gripping section 5 while the film is suspended, specifically, the movement and gripping timing of the opening / closing mechanism 5C that can grip the leading edge of the film F in the film gripping section 5. Referring to Figure 2, it is installed approximately to the side of the film gripping section 5.

[0028] The imaging means 200 at a position above the packaging unit b captures the state when the packaged item is lifted by the elevator 2. These imaging means 200 are capable of recording not only images (video) but also audio, and in particular, at a position above the packaging unit b, the audio that is generated when the pushing up operation or the film folding operation goes wrong can be important information that can be the key to identifying the cause of the problem.

[0029] These three locations are empirically known to be major causes of trouble, and that is why cameras are installed there; however, if imaging means 200 were also installed in other locations, such as the film roll placement section FH and the weighing section 50, it would be possible to more accurately identify the cause of the trouble.

[0030] The types of problems (defects) that can occur in these areas and how to deal with them when they occur are shown in Table 1.

[0031] [Table 1]

[0032] In the past, when a problem occurred, the conveying line would be restarted and the cause investigated by, for example, attempting to recreate the abnormality under the instructions of a service technician who arrived immediately after the problem occurred. However, in cases where the cause was accidentally identified, particularly in cases where human error occurred, the cause may not be fully identified. The basic technical concept of the present invention lies in the fact that recording the occurrence of such a problem can reliably identify the cause. However, constantly recording the conveying and packaging status can lead to problems with the storage capacity of the storage medium, and recording normal conditions is less useful. Furthermore, it is difficult to extract only data from the vast amount of recorded data when an abnormality occurs. Therefore, the packaging machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention is configured to record (save) images (video) and audio before and after a problem actually occurs or when a problem is suspected to occur in a storage device. Furthermore, saving may be triggered by an operator issuing a command to record when they determine that a situation requiring recording is not a problem but the operator has performed some operation. Furthermore, recording can also be triggered by specific conditions. For example, the trigger may be the start of operation first thing in the morning, or the time since operation (the number of days since delivery or the cumulative time). The timing that triggers this recording is the occurrence of an event in the present invention, and the means for detecting the event is the event detection means. The event detection means includes various sensors provided to check the safety of the packaging machine 100, an emergency stop button that the operator operates in an emergency, a recording start switch that the operator can operate at will when they sense an abnormality in the behavior of the packaging machine 100, and a recording start switch from an authorized person in an external device. The recording start switch from an external device will be described later. The packaging machine 100 is configured to record images (video) and audio in the storage means when a signal is input from any of these sensors or any switch.

[0033] The images (video) and audio captured by the imaging means 200 are recorded in the temporary storage means and are updated and overwritten sequentially at short intervals. However, when a signal is input from the event detection means, the control means of the packaging machine 100 controls the transfer of the data recorded in the temporary storage means regarding the images (video) and audio from a time a predetermined period before the start of the signal input to the storage means for permanent storage.

[0034] Although the main body of the imaging means 200 is fixed to the packaging machine, the imaging unit may be movable and can be adjusted to a position that is easy to view by remote control. Furthermore, the imaging unit may have a function to change the focal length or a function to take wide-angle shots.

[0035] (Function block of packaging machine capable of recording events) 5 is a diagram showing an example of an electrical functional block of the packaging machine 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In detail, the packaging machine 100 has an event recording control unit G, a packaging mechanism control unit I, and the like.

[0036] The event recording control unit G mainly controls the imaging means and storage means that are operated in relation to trouble, and is controlled by the CPU 31. The packaging mechanism control unit I mainly controls the mechanism units of the packaging device, and is controlled by the control unit 61 (CPU). The control unit 61 (control means) may also cooperate with each component of the event recording control unit G to control each component.

[0037] The event recording control unit G will now be described. The CPU 31 is connected to a storage unit 35 such as a ROM or RAM, a display operation unit 39, a storage means 210 such as an HD or SDD, an interface circuit (INF) 46, etc. via a communication line (bus, etc.).

[0038] The storage unit 35 has a ROM, a RAM, etc., and stores various control programs etc. executed by the CPU 31. The storage unit 35 has areas for registers, flags, etc. used when the CPU 31 executes the control programs.

[0039] The display operation unit 39 includes an operation unit consisting of a keyboard, a touch panel, etc., and a display unit consisting of a liquid crystal display device, etc. The operation unit is used to input various data and commands. The display unit displays input data, preset data, and various messages based on commands from the CPU 31.

[0040] The event detection unit 40 detects signal input from any of the following means: various sensors installed to check the safety of the packaging machine 100, an emergency stop button that the operator operates in an emergency, or a recording start switch that the operator operates when he or she senses that there is something abnormal in the operational behavior of the packaging machine 100.

[0041] The imaging means 200 is configured to include a small image sensor such as a CCD sensor or a CMOS sensor, and is provided in multiple units to photograph and temporarily store images of various locations in the packaging machine 100. An audio microphone is also built into the imaging means 200, allowing audio to be temporarily stored. This is a measure to be taken, as checking for abnormal sounds is often the key to identifying the cause of a problem.

[0042] The storage means 210 is a storage means such as an HDD or SSD, and is a means for permanently storing, when an event is detected, the content temporarily stored in the imaging means 200 at a timing slightly before the detection time. In this embodiment, the storage means 210 is an HDD disposed inside the packaging machine 100, but it may also be an SD memory card or the like loaded into the packaging machine 100, or storage means provided in an external server connected via a communication line. Regardless of the type of storage means, recording commands for images (video) and audio are executed under the control of the CPU 31. Here, images (videos) and audio are recorded with time codes and other information added, and images (videos) and audio captured at multiple locations are recorded after being correlated with each other.

[0043] The communication interface circuit (INF) 46 is a circuit for communicating various data, commands, etc. between the event recording control unit G and the packaging mechanism control unit I.

[0044] Next, the control unit 61 (CPU) of the packaging mechanism control unit I of the packaging machine 100 will be described. The control unit 61 is connected to a communication interface circuit (INF) 62, a storage unit 60 such as a ROM or RAM, an operation unit 63, a communication unit 64, a mechanism drive unit 65, etc. via a communication line (such as a bus). The communication interface circuit (INF) 62 is a circuit for communicating various data and commands with the event recording control unit G.

[0045] The storage unit 60 stores the control program executed by the control unit 61. The storage unit 60 also stores various registers and flag areas used when the control unit 61 executes the control program, as well as various tables and the like for determining control data based on product shape data (length, width, height).

[0046] Under the control of the control unit 61, the communication unit 64 performs data communication with a management server (such as a management computer) via a wired or wireless communication path (such as a network).

[0047] The control unit 61 functions as a control means for controlling the packaging operation and the like in the packaging machine 100. The control unit 61 executes a control program to realize the functions according to the present invention.

[0048] The mechanism drive unit 65 is electrically connected to the conveying unit 110, elevator 2, packaging unit b, and solenoid 51, which is the drive means for the film gripping unit 5. Each component has been described above, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0049] (How to record, play, check, and transfer events) An example of the operation of the packaging device according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 6 to 11. Up to this point, it has been explained that photography for temporary storage is always performed, but depending on the target location of the packaging machine 100, there are also photographic items that are not always photographed but are photographed temporarily. Figure 6 shows a screen for selecting the location to be photographed always. In some cases, factories are concerned about being filmed, so while there is no problem with constantly filming the entire interior of the packaging machine 100, such as the film gripping unit 5, it is possible to set the conveying unit 110 as an item not to be filmed constantly. For items set in this way, temporary filming will be handled by requesting approval for video filming after an error has occurred and before reproducing the error. If "No" is selected on the screen in Figure 6, constant filming will not be enabled.

[0050] If there are no particular problems with the recording, set all items to "Yes" to set the device to record continuously. In addition, the setting screen also allows you to set how the video will be used after recording, how the video will be saved (whether to store it internally or on an external server), and how long the video will be saved. As described above, event occurrence detection includes various sensors provided to check the safety of the packaging machine 100, an emergency stop button operated by the operator in an emergency, and a recording start switch operated by the operator when the operator senses an abnormality in the behavior of the packaging machine 100. An event occurrence is detected when a signal is input from any of these means. Depending on the location of the error (or the location where the error is thought to have occurred), it is possible to set the system to capture an image of only that location, or to capture images of multiple locations in parallel. Problems can sometimes occur in multiple locations or multiple devices, resulting in a complex combination of related malfunctions. Simultaneous image capture and recording of multiple locations is effective for analyzing such cases. When multiple locations are captured, the multiple recorded data are correlated with each other.

[0051] Furthermore, when photographing multiple locations, if an event is detected at a certain location, photographs of locations other than that location can be saved in association with the recorded data of that location. In this way, although only images of the location where the event was detected can normally be saved, if an event is detected by one of multiple imaging means, data from imaging means that did not detect the event can also be treated as if an event had occurred, and can be saved in association with the data of the event. In this way, by referring to the recorded data of the location, it is possible to check the packaging process of other locations when the event occurred. Furthermore, in this case, taking into consideration the positional relationship between the location where the event was detected and the imaging means at other locations, it is also possible to record a wide range of data from a little before the data to be recorded. Normally, video data is recorded for a certain period of time before and after the occurrence of an error, but since there is a time lag between the imaging means 200 at a position above packaging section b, which is the final process of the packaging process, and the imaging means 200 at the conveying section in the initial stage of the packaging process, it is also possible to calculate the time that the packaged items were flowing when the event occurred and save video data from a stage even earlier than the certain time before. On the other hand, since there is no prior recording process for the occurrence of an event in the transport unit 110, it is possible to set it so that it is not necessary to link with the storage of recorded data in other locations.

[0052] When viewing recorded data, the operation usually proceeds by selecting commands in the order of setup, maintenance, and recording data confirmation from a selection menu screen (not shown) to call up the recording data history confirmation screen, but it would be more convenient if the recording data history confirmation screen could be called up directly. Figure 7 shows such an example, where a recording confirmation button icon is provided on the product registration screen, and touching this icon takes you directly to the recording data history confirmation screen.

[0053] Figure 8 shows the history confirmation screen for recorded video data. The log list displays the shooting date, shooting time, message number, title, product number, tray number, and video file name. The title displays the error description, and pressing the title displays the solution. The product number is the product number, which identifies the product being processed. The tray number is the tray number used for packaging. Touching the file name jumps to the screen shown in Figure 9, which displays the folder where the video file is saved. Furthermore, by continuing to touch the file name and selecting Properties from the submenu screen that appears, you can check the error location, storage location, data size, whether or not it was sent (to the service technician), and other information. The recorded data also includes product-related information such as detailed product information, film type, number of work instructions, and packaging machine information. This allows the service technician to determine how the error occurred depending on the product or process, thereby facilitating cause investigation. The log list also includes a search button. Pressing this button changes the displayed items. You can switch between "Recording List," "Log List," "Camera 1," etc. Switching to "Recording List" will display only logs with saved video. Switching to "Log List" will display all logs in chronological order, regardless of whether they have been recorded or not. Switching to "Camera 1" will display only recordings from the camera angle of Camera 1. In this way, multiple cameras can be set, providing a sorting function.

[0054] Once the target file is selected by appropriate selection and confirmation, a screen appears displaying the video file, as shown in FIG. 9. In this example, the image capture unit 200 of the elevator 2 is the image capture unit directly related to the event. The video file item displays the camera number of the saved video. If multiple camera images are combined, the number of cameras may also be displayed. In this example, in addition to the elevator 2, video of the film gripping unit 5 and transport unit 110 is also recorded and displayed. After playback is complete, a screen appears, as shown in FIG. 10, allowing the user to select whether or not to transfer the target file to a service technician. In cases where the problem is minor or where experienced factory staff are involved, the problem may be resolved without calling a service technician. In some cases, the factory may be concerned about the video being recorded. For this reason, the user can choose not to transfer the file to a service technician. In this embodiment, after the recorded data is played back, a selection screen for deciding whether or not to transfer the data is displayed. However, the selection screen may be configured to be called up from a screen that displays a list of file names.

[0055] This section describes a method for permanently storing the content temporarily stored in the imaging means 200 when an event is detected, starting a little before the event. As shown in FIG. 11(a), the camera image is stored in the camera's RAM, and when an event occurs, the recorded content for 20 seconds before and after the event is saved to the camera's SD card. In this embodiment of the present invention, multiple locations are captured, and when an event is detected at a certain location, the captured images from other locations are saved in association with the recorded data of that location. However, it can be inconvenient if multiple locations are simultaneously captured. For example, if an error occurs when a packaged product is being pushed up by the elevator 2, it is highly likely that the cause was located upstream, in the film gripping unit 5 or the conveying unit 110. However, even if a video of 20 seconds before and after the timing of the critical error in elevator 2 is recorded as a reference point, the significance of this is small because, as shown in Fig. 11(b), the film gripping unit 5 and the imaging means 200 of the conveying unit 110 will capture and record images of subsequent products flowing along the conveying path. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 11(c), if the video is recorded with a time shift, it is possible to record all situations in which the same product of interest is being conveyed, which will be sufficient for later analysis.

[0056] Figure 12 shows an example of a screen when a recorded image is played back. For example, if an error is detected in packaging section b, the recorded data will be recorded from a stage that is a predetermined time before the error was detected and a certain amount of time before the error occurred. Figure 12(a) is a played image of normal operation before the error was detected. The background color of the time code area is white, indicating that there are no problems. On the other hand, Figure 12(b) is a played image after an error has been detected. The background color of the time code area is red, making it possible to see at a glance that some kind of trouble has occurred.

[0057] In the illustrated example, the recorded data is played back on a single screen, but it is also possible to simultaneously play back and switch between images from three locations, such as the front position of the conveying unit 110, the film feed unit, and the position above the packaging unit b, or to display them side by side. These multiple image data are correlated with each other by time codes. For example, if an error occurs in elevator 2, it is not necessarily the case that the abnormality is limited to elevator 2. It is also possible that an abnormality has already occurred in the film feed unit or conveying unit 110, which are located upstream and downstream of elevator 2, to the extent that an error is not detected. Therefore, it is effective to analyze these conditions together. In the case of elevator 2, it is recommended to save the video recordings of the film feed unit and conveying unit 110, which are located upstream in the transport of the packaged items, together.

[0058] The embodiment of the present invention is configured to enable live viewing of images captured by an imaging device remotely from a PC. Figure 13 shows a monitoring image when monitoring with an external device. Saving of the recording can be started by operating the "Start Recording" button at the bottom of this screen. Operating the "Start Recording" button can be considered to constitute a "recording start command" in the present invention.

[0059] In the embodiment of the present invention, the imaging means 200 are described as being disposed in three locations: in front of the conveying section 110, above the film feed section, and above the packaging section b. However, additional imaging means 200 can also be installed in other locations, for example, near the guide section 4 or the weighing section 50. These locations are housed within a housing, have few external factors, and sufficient preventative measures are taken to prevent abnormalities. However, complex mechanical operations may be performed, and there is a high possibility of problems occurring due to mechanical deterioration over time, so additional monitoring and observation are considered effective. It is advisable to provide a structure that allows the imaging means 200 to be detached so that additional imaging means 200 can be installed in these locations. On the other hand, although the transport section 110 is an important location to be monitored, there is a risk that various locations in the factory may be captured in the image, so it may be desirable not to install the imaging means 200 there all the time. Therefore, it is effective to have a structure that allows the imaging means 200 to be additionally installed here as well. Furthermore, since installing an imaging means in this location is less subject to space constraints than installing it inside a housing, the imaging means installed here can be a general-purpose product such as a smartphone or mobile device.

[0060] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described as a packaging machine, the technical idea of ​​the present invention can be conceived as an event monitoring program for a packaging machine that is provided with an event detection means and a control means, and is also provided with an imaging means and / or a storage means, or that causes a computer of a connected packaging machine to function as temporary storage means that temporarily stores image data of the packaging process of the packaging machine, detection and reception means for events that occur in the packaging process, and control means that, when an input is received by the detection and reception means, causes the temporarily stored image data to be recorded in the storage means in association with the event. <Summary of the embodiment> [Technical field] The present invention relates to a packaging machine and an event monitoring program for the packaging machine. [Background technology] BACKGROUND ART A packaging machine that wraps an object by folding a film is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art document] [Patent documents] [Patent Document 1] JP 2017-057004 A [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention] The packaging machine described above has been designed with measures to prevent the film from getting caught or stuck on the feeding member. However, problems in packaging machines are not limited to the film feeding mechanism, but can occur throughout the machinery, such as the transport mechanism for the packaged item and the packaging mechanism that encases the film. In addition, the causes of problems are diverse, including human error due to improper operation by the operator. Once an error occurs, the operator often cannot determine the problem, and recovery often requires time, as they must first investigate the cause. Currently, a service technician is dispatched to the site to troubleshoot the problem, but it can take time for the technician to arrive, which is insufficient in terms of rapid response. Therefore, there was a need for a solution that would enable quick resolution and recovery. [Means for solving the problem] (1) As described above, one aspect of this embodiment is a packaging machine (packaging machine 100) that includes an imaging means (imaging means 200), an event detection means (event detection unit 40), and a control means (CPU 31), wherein the imaging means (imaging means 200) captures images of the packaging process of the packaging machine, the event detection means (event detection unit 40) detects events related to the packaging machine, and the control means (CPU 31), when an event occurs, associates the captured data with the event and outputs a recording start command to a storage means (storage means 210, HDD, SSD, SD card, storage means provided in an external server). This configuration allows for early resolution and recovery of any problems that occur in the packaging machine.

[0061] (2) One aspect of this embodiment is characterized in that, in the packaging machine (packaging machine 100) described in (1), the packaging machine has an internal or external storage means (storage means 210, HDD, SSD, SD card) for recording image data of the packaging process, and further has a transmission means, and the transmission means requests approval to transmit the data before transmitting the data. According to this configuration, when an error occurs, the imaging data can be reliably checked.

[0062] (3) One aspect of this embodiment is characterized in that, in the packaging machine (packaging machine 100) described in (1) or (2), the imaging means are multiple imaging means that capture images of the packaging process of the packaging machine from separate imaging ranges, and when an event occurs in any one of the multiple imaging means, the control means outputs a recording instruction command to the storage means (storage means 210) to record data captured by the imaging means (imaging means 200) where the event occurred and by imaging means (imaging means 200) other than the imaging means where the event occurred, in association with the event, and the storage means, upon receiving the instruction command, records the data captured by the imaging means where the event occurred and by imaging means other than the imaging means where the event occurred, in association with the event. According to this configuration, it is possible to check image data of a location other than the location where the event occurred.

[0063] (4) One aspect of this embodiment is characterized in that in a packaging machine (packaging machine 100) described in any one of (1) to (3), for an imaging means (imaging means 200) in which an event has occurred, imaging data before and after the event detection time is stored in association with the event, and for an imaging means (storage means 210) other than the imaging means in question, imaging data before and after the event detection time is stored in association with the event in association with the event. According to this configuration, it is possible to reliably record the state of the erroneous product being conveyed and to check the captured data.

[0064] (5) One aspect of this embodiment is characterized in that the packaging machine (packaging machine 100) described in any one of (1) to (4) has a display control means (CPU 31) that displays image data of the packaging process recorded in the storage means, and the display control means displays the event, packaging process information, and image data of the packaging process. According to this configuration, the relationship between the event, packaging process information, and image data can be easily grasped.

[0065] (6) One aspect of this embodiment is that in the packaging machine (packaging machine 100) described in any one of (3) to (5), the display control means (CPU 31) is characterized in that when displaying the imaging means in which an event has occurred from the storage means, it displays data captured by imaging means other than the imaging means in association with the imaging means. With this configuration, in addition to the video of the detected event, you can also easily view images recorded by other cameras. (7) One aspect of this embodiment is that in the packaging machine (packaging machine 100) described in any one of (1) to (6), the storage means (storage means 210) stores image data of the packaging process for a predetermined period when an event is detected. According to this configuration, the imaging data can be checked over a predetermined period before and after the occurrence of the trouble, which makes it possible to more reliably identify the cause. (8) One aspect of this embodiment is an event monitoring program for a packaging machine that is provided with an event detection means and a control means, and also with an imaging means and / or a storage means, or that causes a connected computer of the packaging machine to function as a temporary storage means (storage unit 35) that temporarily stores image data of the packaging process of the packaging machine, a detection and reception means (event detection unit 40) for detecting and receiving events that occur in the packaging process, and a control means (CPU 31) that, when an input is received by the detection and reception means, associates the temporarily stored image data with the event and records it in the storage means. This configuration allows for early resolution and recovery of any problems that occur in the packaging machine.

[0066] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments, and the present invention also encompasses design changes and the like that do not deviate from the gist of the present invention. For example, the locations where the image capture device is permanently installed are the elevator unit, the transport unit, and the film gripping unit, and the weighing unit is additionally installed. However, these classifications can be arbitrarily changed. Furthermore, although the embodiments have been described in which image capture data is recorded only when an event occurs, if there is no limit to the storage capacity, image capture data may be recorded at all times. In this case, when no event occurs, the image capture data is treated as simple image capture data (or image capture data with information indicating no event) and, when an event occurs, detailed information about the event is added to the image capture data. This aspect can also be considered as recording the image capture data in association with the event. Furthermore, the embodiments shown in the above-described drawings can be combined with each other as long as there are no particular contradictions or problems in terms of purpose, configuration, etc. Furthermore, the contents of each drawing may be independent embodiments, and the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to one embodiment obtained by combining the drawings. [Explanation of symbols]

[0067] 2. Elevator 4…………Information department 5...Film gripping part 39……Display operation section 40: Event detection unit 50……Measuring part 100……Wrapping machine 100B...Main body 110...Transportation unit 200...imaging means 210...Memory means

Claims

1. A packaging machine comprising an imaging means, an event detection means, and a control means, the imaging means captures an image of the packaging process of the packaging machine, the event detection means detects an event related to the packaging machine; When an event occurs, the control means outputs a command to start recording to the storage means, associating the captured data with the event. A packaging machine characterized by:

2. The packaging machine has built-in or external storage means for recording image data of the packaging process, and further has transmission means, The transmitting means requests approval to transmit the data before transmitting the data.

2. The packaging machine according to claim 1.

3. the imaging means is a plurality of imaging means for imaging the packaging process of the packaging machine from different imaging ranges, when an event occurs in any one of the plurality of imaging means, the control means outputs a recording instruction to the storage means, associating data captured by the imaging means in which the event occurred and the imaging means other than the imaging means in which the event occurred with the data; The storage means records the data captured by the imaging means in which the event occurred upon receiving the instruction command and by imaging means other than the imaging means in association with the event.

3. The packaging machine according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The storage means stores, for the imaging means in which an event has occurred, imaging data before and after the event detection time as a reference, in association with the event, and for imaging means other than the imaging means in question, imaging data before and after the event detection time as a reference, with a predetermined time difference therebetween, in association with the event.

4. The packaging machine according to claim 1, wherein the packaging machine is a packaging machine having a plurality of packaging members.

5. a display control means for displaying image data of the packaging process recorded in the storage means; The display control means displays the event, packaging process information, and data obtained by capturing images of the packaging process.

5. The packaging machine according to claim 1, wherein the packaging machine is a packaging machine having a plurality of packaging members.

6. The display control means, when displaying the imaging means in which an event has occurred from the storage means, displays data captured by imaging means other than the imaging means in association with the imaging means in which the event has occurred.

6. The packaging machine according to claim 3, wherein the packaging machine is a packaging machine having a plurality of packaging members.

7. The storage means stores image data of the packaging process for a predetermined period when the event is detected.

7. The packaging machine according to claim 1, wherein the packaging machine is a packaging machine having a plurality of packaging members.

8. The packaging machine is provided with an event detection means and a control means, and is also provided with or connected to an imaging means and / or a storage means. a temporary storage means for temporarily storing image data of the packaging process of the packaging machine; A means for detecting and receiving an event for the packaging machine; a control means for recording the temporarily stored image data in a storage means in association with the event when an input is received by the detection receiving means; An event monitoring program for a packaging machine, characterized in that the program functions as

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