Information processing device and method for controlling information processing device

Abstract

To provide an information processing device that enables a user to consider appropriate robot system specifications when introducing a robot system.SOLUTION: An information processing device 10 includes: a customer information reception unit 11 configured to receive customer information that contains a request of a customer who is introducing a robot system; a proposal information reception unit 12 configured to receive, from a plurality of proposers, pieces of proposal information that correspond to the customer information and that contain the specification of the robot system; and an information presentation unit 13 configured to present the respective pieces of proposal information from the plurality of proposers which are received by the proposal information reception unit 12.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an information processing device and a control method for an information processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, information processing devices have been disclosed that allow users to examine robot systems. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a robot simulation device that displays animated videos of robot movements. The robot simulation device in Patent Document 1 includes a PC. The PC pre-stores three-dimensional models of the robots and peripheral devices included in the robot system. In Patent Document 1, when the robot operates based on an operation program, the robot inputs information such as its current position to the PC. The PC displays, on a display screen, animated videos of the movements of the robot system including the robot and peripheral devices based on the input information about the robot's current position. By viewing the animated videos displayed on the display screen, a user can examine whether the robot system is operating appropriately, for example. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-117863 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the information processing device in Patent Document 1 displays animated video of the movements of robots that have already been deployed, and therefore cannot be used to consider a robot system when the robot system has not yet been constructed, such as when the robot system is being introduced.

[0005] This disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one purpose of this disclosure is to provide an information processing device and a control method for an information processing device that allow a user to consider appropriate robot system specifications when introducing a robot system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An information processing device according to a first aspect of this disclosure includes a customer information receiving unit that receives customer information including requests from customers who wish to introduce a robot system, a proposal information receiving unit that receives proposal information including specifications of the robot system for the customer information from multiple proposers, and an information presentation unit that presents the proposal information of each of the multiple proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit.

[0007] As described above, the information processing device according to the first aspect of this disclosure includes an information presentation unit that presents proposal information from each of a plurality of proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit in response to customer information including a request from a customer who will install a robot system. Since the proposal information is presented by the information presentation unit, a user, such as a customer or an owner of the information processing device, can consider whether the proposal information matches the customer information when installing a robot system. Therefore, the user can consider appropriate robot system specifications when installing a robot system.

[0008] A control method for an information processing device according to a second aspect of this disclosure includes a customer information receiving unit receiving customer information including a request from a customer to introduce a robot system, a proposed information receiving unit receiving proposed information from a plurality of proposers including specifications of the robot system for the customer information, and an information presentation unit presenting the proposed information of each of the plurality of proposers received by the proposed information receiving unit.

[0009] As described above, the control method of an information processing device according to a second aspect of the present disclosure includes the information presenting unit presenting proposal information from each of a plurality of proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit in response to customer information including a request from a customer who will be introducing a robot system. Since the proposal information is presented by the information presenting unit, a user, such as an owner of the information processing device or a customer, can consider whether the proposal information matches the customer information when introducing a robot system. Therefore, a control method of an information processing device can be provided that allows a user, such as an owner of the information processing device or a customer, to consider appropriate robot system specifications when introducing a robot system. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The information processing device and the control method of the information processing device disclosed herein allow a user to consider appropriate specifications for a robot system when introducing the robot system. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a matching service according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a login screen. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a work area captured by an imaging unit of a customer's terminal. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a customer information input screen. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing buttons for selecting a project displayed on the terminal of the proposer. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a work area displayed on a terminal of a proposer. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a graphical user interface for constructing specifications for a robot system, displayed on a terminal of a proposer. [Figure 9]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the state in which a robot and a conveyor are arranged in a working area using a graphical user interface for constructing specifications for a robot system. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a state in which robot operation details are input using a graphical user interface for constructing specifications for a robot system. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an input screen for proposal information. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the proposer's specialty area, package information and availability information of robot systems proposed in the past. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 shows a rough sketch of a robot system previously proposed by the proposer. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a flowchart of a control method for an information processing device according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a matching service according to a first modified example. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a matching service according to a second modified example. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining a matching service according to a third modified example. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an information processing device according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0013] The information processing device 10 shown in FIG. 1 is a device for providing a matching service between customer information from a customer and a proposer who proposes proposal information including robot system specifications. As described below, the customer information includes the customer's requirements for introducing a robot system, such as the work area where the robot included in the robot system will be placed, the tasks the robot will perform, and three-dimensional data of the work area where the robot will be placed. A customer who is considering introducing a robot system may not know information about the proposer who will propose the robot system specifications, how to proceed with the robot system implementation, the costs associated with the robot system implementation, and support such as on-site adjustment and maintenance of the robot system. In addition, the customer may lack personnel capable of training the robot system's operation. A proposer may be, for example, a system integrator, a contract development company that undertakes all stages of robot system development. System integrators are referred to as system integrators hereinafter. SIers receive development contracts from relatively large companies that are heavy users of robot systems. However, due to a lack of personnel and time, SIers are unable to obtain customer information from customers who have never introduced a robot system before, making it difficult for them to accept development contracts. The information processing device 10 is a device for providing a matching service between a customer who intends to introduce a robot system and an SIer, etc. In Fig. 1, multiple proposers are represented as SIerA, SIerB, and SIerC.

[0014] A matching service will now be described. As shown in FIG. 1, an information processing device 10 provides a matching service between a customer and a proposer such as an SIer. As described above, the customer is a company or the like that is planning to introduce a robot system. The customer registers to use the information processing device 10. The proposer such as an SIer pays a usage fee for using the information processing device 10. The usage fee is, for example, a monthly fee. The usage fee is paid to the matching service provider that owns the information processing device 10. The customer has a terminal 20 shown in FIG. 2 that is connected to the information processing device 10 via an external network 1. The information processing device 10 is, for example, a server connected to the external network 1. The proposer has a terminal 30 shown in FIG. 2 that is connected to the information processing device 10 via the external network 1.

[0015] (Customer's terminal) The customer terminal 20 will now be described. As shown in FIG. 2, the terminal 20 is a terminal held by the customer. The customer terminal 20 is, for example, a tablet terminal. The terminal 20 includes an imaging unit 21, a data acquisition unit 22, a display unit 23, an input unit 24, a storage unit 25, and a control unit 26. The data acquired by the data acquisition unit 22 is, for example, three-dimensional data. Alternatively, the data acquired by the data acquisition unit 22 may be two-dimensional.

[0016] The imaging unit 21 is, for example, a two-dimensional camera. The lens of the imaging unit 21 is disposed on the rear side of the terminal 20.

[0017] The data acquisition unit 22 acquires, for example, three-dimensional data of the subject captured by the imaging unit 21. For example, the data acquisition unit 22 emits a laser beam toward the subject and receives the laser beam reflected from the subject. The data acquisition unit 22 measures the distance to the subject based on the time between emitting the laser beam toward the subject and receiving the laser beam. This allows the data acquisition unit 22 to acquire three-dimensional data of the subject. The three-dimensional data of the subject is information about the subject's length, width, and height. The subject also includes, for example, the walls and floor of the work area where the robot system to be introduced is to be installed, power outlets located in the work area, traffic lines such as the robot's loading and unloading route, and equipment such as a crane. The data acquisition unit 22 is located, for example, near the lens of the imaging unit 21 on the rear side of the terminal 20. The data acquisition unit 22 includes, for example, a sensor such as LiDAR. LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging.

[0018] Display unit 23 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a micro LED display, etc. An image captured by imaging unit 21 is displayed on display unit 23. Display unit 23 is disposed on the front side of terminal 20, for example.

[0019] The input unit 24 is, for example, a touch panel displayed on the display unit 23. The customer can input their requests and the like by operating the input unit 24. The input unit 24 may also be a push-button keyboard.

[0020] The storage unit 25 is, for example, a flash memory, a solid state drive, a hard disk, etc. The storage unit 25 stores programs to be executed by the control unit 26, etc.

[0021] The control unit 26 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The control unit 26 controls the overall operation of the terminal 20.

[0022] (Proposer's device) The terminal 30 of the proposer will be described. The terminal 30 is a terminal held by the proposer. The terminal 20 of the proposer is, for example, a personal computer. The terminal 30 includes a display unit 31, an input unit 32, a storage unit 33, and a control unit 34. The terminal 30 is located, for example, in the company to which the proposer belongs.

[0023] The display unit 31 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, a micro LED display, etc. The input unit 32 is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, etc. The storage unit 33 is, for example, a flash memory, a solid state drive, a hard disk, etc. The storage unit 25 stores programs executed by the control unit 34, etc.

[0024] The control unit 34 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The control unit 34 controls the overall operation of the terminal 30.

[0025] (Information processing device) The configuration of the information processing device 10 will be described. The information processing device 10 receives requests from customers who wish to introduce a robot system and also receives specifications of the robot system proposed by a proposer in response to the customer's request. Specifically, the information processing device 10 includes a customer information receiving unit 11, a proposed information receiving unit 12, an information presentation unit 13, a robot system construction unit 14, a memory unit 15, a display unit 16, and a login reception unit 17. The information processing device 10 is, for example, a server and includes a central processing unit (CPU), a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and the like. The customer information receiving unit 11, the proposed information receiving unit 12, the information presentation unit 13, the robot system construction unit 14, and the login reception unit 17 are functional blocks that function on software. The memory unit 15 is, for example, a flash memory, a solid-state drive, or a hard disk. The display unit 16 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic electroluminescence (EL) display, a micro LED display, or the like.

[0026] In this embodiment, the customer information accepting unit 11 accepts customer information including a request from a customer who intends to introduce a robot system. The customer information accepting unit 11 accepts the customer information via the external network 1. Specifically, the customer information accepting unit 11 accepts, as the customer information, at least one of a work area where a robot included in the robot system is to be placed and the work content to be performed by the robot. The customer information accepting unit 11 also accepts, as the customer information, three-dimensional data of the work area where the robot is to be placed. For example, a customer starts up the terminal 20 and accesses the information processing device 10. As shown in FIG. 3 , the login accepting unit 17 displays a login screen G1 on the display unit 23 of the terminal 20, and the customer presses a customer button G1a. The customer then logs in to the information processing device 10 by entering a pre-registered ID and password. The login screen G1 and the customer button G1a are graphical user interfaces.

[0027] Next, as shown in FIG. 4, the customer uses the imaging unit 21 of the terminal 20 to capture an image of the work area where the robot system to be introduced is to be placed. The data acquisition unit 22 acquires three-dimensional data of the work area. For example, in the work area P shown in FIG. 4, three-dimensional data of the wall P1, floor P2, etc. is acquired. The customer also uses the imaging unit 21 to capture a video of the work being performed by the worker W as the work to be performed by the robot. The three-dimensional data acquired by the data acquisition unit 22 and the video of the work being performed by the worker W captured by the imaging unit 21 are stored in the memory unit 25.

[0028] Next, as shown in FIG. 5, the customer information reception unit 11 displays the customer input screen G2 on the display unit 23 based on the operation of the customer's terminal 20. The input screen G2 is a graphical user interface. The customer uses the input unit 24 to input the project name, a rough sketch of the work, the address, the required performance, the desired delivery date, the workpiece shape, weight, gripping position, three-dimensional data of the subject acquired by the data acquisition unit 22, a work video, and comments. The project name is a name determined by the customer. The customer's name and input date may also be entered along with the project name. The rough sketch of the work is a diagram of the work area layout and work outline created by the customer using drawing software or the like. The rough sketch data is stored in the memory unit 25, for example, and the customer specifies the file name of the rough sketch data. The address is the customer's address. The required performance is, for example, the takt time of the robot system to be introduced. The desired delivery date is the delivery date desired by the customer. The work shape is the shape of the workpiece to be grasped by the robot, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped. The weight is the weight of the workpiece. The gripping position is the position where the robot grasps the workpiece, such as the side of the workpiece. The three-dimensional data is the three-dimensional data acquired by the data acquisition unit 22, and the customer specifies the file name of the three-dimensional data. The work video is a video of the work captured by the imaging unit 21, and the customer specifies the file name of the work video. The comment is a comment written freely by the customer. The project name, rough sketch of the work, address, required performance, desired delivery date, workpiece shape, weight, gripping position, three-dimensional data, work video, and comments entered by the customer are transmitted to the customer information reception unit 11 as customer information. The above information entered by the customer is an example. The transmitted customer information is stored in the memory unit 15.

[0029] In this embodiment, the proposed information receiving unit 12 receives proposed information including specifications of a robot system for customer information from multiple proposers. The proposed information receiving unit 12 receives the proposed information via the external network 1. For example, the proposer starts up the terminal 30 and accesses the information processing device 10. As shown in FIG. 3 , the proposed information receiving unit 12 displays a login screen G1 on the display unit 31 of the terminal 30, and the proposer presses the integrator button G1b. The proposer then logs in to the information processing device 10 by inputting a pre-registered ID and password. The integrator button G1b is a graphical user interface.

[0030] In this embodiment, the robot system construction unit 14 is a tool that allows the proposer to construct the specifications of a robot system based on the customer information received by the customer information receiving unit 11. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 6 , after the proposer logs in to the information processing device 10, the robot system construction unit 14 displays the customer information registered by the customer on the display unit 31 of the proposer's terminal 30. In FIG. 6 , as an example, buttons G3a, G3b, and G3c are displayed for selecting one of Project A, Project B, and Project C, which are customer information registered by each of multiple customers. The buttons G3a, G3b, and G3c are graphical user interfaces. When the proposer presses one of the buttons G3a, G3b, or G3c, the robot system construction unit 14 displays the three-dimensional data acquired by the data acquisition unit 22 of the customer's terminal 20 on the display unit 31 of the terminal 30, as shown in FIG. 7 . In FIG. 7 , an animated image of the work area P based on the three-dimensional data is displayed. In FIG. 7 , the animated image of the work area P displays walls P1, floor P2, and the like. In addition, the proposer can refer to the customer information such as a rough sketch of the work and a video of the work that has been received by the customer information receiving unit 11.

[0031] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8 , based on the operation of the proposer's terminal 30, the robot system construction unit 14 displays a graphical user interface G4 on the display unit 31, which is used by the proposer to construct the specifications of the robot system, and accepts input from the proposer for constructing the specifications of the robot system using the graphical user interface G4. Specifically, the robot system construction unit 14 accepts, as the operation for constructing the specifications of the robot system, the selection of a robot from among multiple types of robots, input of the placement position of the selected robot, and input of the operation content of the selected robot. For example, the robot system construction unit 14 displays selection buttons for selecting the type of robot. The selection buttons may include, for example, a button G4a for selecting a vertically articulated robot or a button G4b for selecting a horizontally articulated robot. The proposer selects a robot by pressing one of the buttons. As a result, an animated image of the selected robot RB is displayed on the animated image of the working area P, as shown in FIG. 9 . The proposer can also change the placement position of the selected robot RB by dragging and dropping the displayed animated image of the robot RB.

[0032] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8 , the robot system construction unit 14 accepts the selection of peripheral devices related to the robot's operation as an operation for constructing the robot system specifications. For example, the robot system construction unit 14 displays a button G4c for selecting peripheral devices such as a conveyor in addition to the robot, allowing the proposer to select peripheral devices to be placed in the work area P. The robot system construction unit 14 also accepts the selection of the type of hand to be attached to the robot. The robot system construction unit 14 may also accept the selection of an external axis that coordinates the robot's operation. FIG. 9 shows, as an example, a state in which a vertical articulated robot RB and a conveyor CON are placed in the work area P. The proposer selects an appropriate robot based on the required performance, workpiece shape, weight, and the like included in the customer information. The proposer also selects the number of robots and peripheral devices based on the work video and the like. The placement positions of the robots and peripheral devices accepted by the robot system construction unit 14 are stored in the storage unit 15 as the robot system specifications.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 10, the robot system construction unit 14 also accepts input of the operation details of the selected robot. The robot system construction unit 14 also accepts input of the operation details of the selected peripheral device. For example, based on the operation of the proposer, the robot system construction unit 14 displays a reception screen G5, which accepts the operation details of the robot and peripheral device, on the display unit 31 of the terminal 30. The reception screen G5 is a graphical user interface. The proposer operates the input unit 32 to accept input of the period during which the robot and peripheral device will each operate. In FIG. 10, the period during which the robot and peripheral device will each operate is represented by a MOVE sign. The period during which the robot performs its pick-up operation is represented by a PICK sign.

[0034] In this embodiment, the robot system construction unit 14 generates an animated video showing the robot's movements based on the received robot movement content. Specifically, the robot system construction unit 14 generates an animated video showing the robot placed in the work area moving and picking up, and the peripheral devices operating, based on the robot movement content received on the reception screen G5. Note that the animated video generated by the robot system construction unit 14 shows the robot and peripheral devices performing predetermined movements, and does not simulate the optimization of the movements of the robot and peripheral devices. The animated video generated by the robot system construction unit 14 is stored in the storage unit 15 as suggested information.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 11 , the proposal information receiving unit 12 displays the proposer's input screen G6 on the display unit 31 based on the operation of the proposer's terminal 30. The input screen G6 is a graphical user interface. The proposer uses the input unit 32 to input information such as the project name, a rough sketch of the configuration, target performance, price, delivery date, a 3D model, inspection conditions, after-sales service, a list of incoming goods, a list of equipment used, and comments. The project name is the name of the project selected by the proposer, such as Project A, Project B, or Project C. The proposer's name and the input date may also be input along with the project name. The rough sketch of the configuration is a rough sketch of the robot system proposed by the proposer. Data for the rough sketch of the configuration is stored, for example, in the memory unit 33, and the proposer specifies the file name of the data. The rough sketch of the configuration may also be created from an animated video generated by the robot system construction unit 14. The target performance is the target performance of the robot system constructed by the proposer, such as the takt time. The price is the price of the robot system constructed by the proposer. The delivery date is the delivery date of the robot system constructed by the proposer. The 3D model is an animated image or animated video of the robot system constructed by the proposer using the robot system construction unit 14. The inspection conditions are conditions for confirming whether the delivered robot system conforms to the specifications. The after-sales service is the after-sales service that the proposer can provide after the robot system is introduced. The arrival list and the equipment usage list are lists of the equipment that has arrived and the equipment that has been used, respectively. The comment is a comment freely written by the proposer. The project name, rough sketch of the configuration, target performance, price, delivery date, 3D model, inspection conditions, after-sales service, arrival list, equipment usage list, and comments entered by the proposer are transmitted to the proposal information receiving unit 12 as proposal information. The above information entered by the proposer is an example. The transmitted proposal information is stored in the memory unit 15. That is, the specifications and animated video of the robot system constructed by the proposer using the robot system construction unit 14 are accepted by the proposal information receiving unit 12 as proposal information and stored in the memory unit 15.

[0036] In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 12 , the proposal information receiving unit 12 receives proposal information including at least one of the proposer's expertise, package information of robot systems previously proposed by the proposer, and availability information for work, in addition to the specifications of the robot system. The expertise includes, for example, industry, application, and track record. Examples of industries include the automotive, semiconductor, and medical industries. Application refers to tasks to which robots are applied, such as assembly, handling, loading and unloading, palletizing and depalletizing, picking, painting, sealing, polishing and deburring, arc welding, spot welding, and wafer transport. Track record refers to the number of robot systems previously delivered by the proposer. Package information includes, for example, a rough sketch, performance, delivery date, price, and contract terms. As shown in FIG. 13 , the rough sketch is a rough sketch of a robot system previously delivered by the proposer. Note that this rough sketch is different from the animated video generated by the robot system construction unit 14. The example robot system 200 in FIG. 13 includes a horizontal articulated robot 201, a workpiece 202, a workpiece supply station 203, and a conveyor 204. The performance, delivery date, price, and contract terms are the performance, delivery date, price, and contract terms of robot systems that the proposer has delivered to date. The availability is the proposer's availability for delivery work, such as whether the proposer can deliver the robot system immediately or whether delivery of the robot system can begin in a few months. In addition, areas of expertise, package information for robot systems that the proposer has proposed in the past, and availability information for work are accepted for each proposer.

[0037] In this embodiment, the information presenting unit 13 presents the proposal information of each of the multiple proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit 12. Specifically, the information presenting unit 13 presents the proposal information from each of the multiple proposers to the customer. The information presenting unit 13 presents the proposal information of each proposer to the customer based on the operation of the customer's terminal 20. The proposal information is displayed on the display unit 23 of the terminal 20. The proposal information includes the proposal information shown in FIG. 11 , which includes an animated video constructed by the robot system construction unit 14, and the proposal information shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 , which includes package information of robot systems previously proposed by the proposers. The information presenting unit 13 may also use AR technology to superimpose a virtual image of a robot proposed by the proposer onto a work area captured by the imaging unit 21 of the customer's terminal 20 and displayed on the display unit 23. AR stands for augmented reality. The information presenting unit 13 may also use VR technology to display a virtual image of the work area and robot proposed by the proposer on the display unit 23 of the customer's terminal 20. VR stands for virtual reality. Furthermore, the information presenter 13 may use MR technology to display virtual images of the work area and robot proposed by the proposer on the display unit 23 of the customer's terminal 20. Note that MR stands for augmented reality.

[0038] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the information presenting unit 13 does not present to one of the multiple proposers the proposal information proposed by the remaining proposers. For example, the information presenting unit 13 displays the proposal information of the proposer SIerA itself on the display unit 23 of the terminal 20 based on the operation of the terminal 20 of the proposer SIerA. On the other hand, the information presenting unit 13 does not present the proposal information of the proposer SIerA to the proposers SIerB and SIerC.

[0039] Furthermore, the information presenting unit 13 presents the proposal information of each proposer based on the operation of the information processing device 10 by the holder of the information processing device 10, who is also the provider of the matching service. For example, the proposal information is displayed on the display unit 16 of the information processing device 10. The provider of the matching service is, for example, a project manager who oversees the introduction of the robot system.

[0040] The login accepting unit 17 controls logins from customers and proposers. The login accepting unit 17 permits customers and proposers to log in to the information processing device 10 based on pre-registered IDs and passwords.

[0041] (Matching by matching service providers) The matching service provider compares customer information, including customer requirements, with proposal information, including robot system specifications, to determine which proposer's proposal information is suitable for the customer's customer information. This determination by the holder is called matching. The matching service provider performs matching manually. The matching service provider also determines whether the required performance and delivery date of the robot system required by the customer match the target performance and delivery date of the robot system proposed by the proposer. The holder also determines which proposer's proposal information is suitable by taking into account the proposer's area of ​​expertise and package information of robot systems previously proposed by the proposer. The matching service provider then transmits information about suitable proposers to the customer. This information is transmitted to the customer's terminal 20 via the external network 1 or by telephone. The matching service provider also notifies the suitable proposer that their proposal meets the customer's requirements. The matching service provider then arranges a meeting between the customer and the proposer or invites them to an online conference. The customer can also select a proposer by personally reviewing the proposal information of multiple proposers presented by the information presentation unit 13. In this case, the customer notifies the matching service provider that he or she has selected the proposer.

[0042] By using the matching service as described above, a customer can have the matching service provider introduce them to a proposer who will propose the specifications of a robot system. The proposer's proposed animation video allows the customer to visualize the robot system. The matching service provider can provide follow-up on the costs associated with implementing the robot system. The customer can compare the costs proposed by multiple proposers. The customer can also understand the inspection conditions for on-site adjustment of the robot system. The matching service provider can provide follow-up on support for robot system maintenance and other aspects. The customer can also receive support from the proposer for training, such as teaching them how to operate the robot system. The proposer can also receive information on many customers who wish to implement a robot system from the matching service provider. This eliminates the need for personnel dedicated to sales to customers.

[0043] (Method for controlling information processing device) A method for controlling the information processing device 10 will be described.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 14, in step S1, the login accepting unit 17 accepts a login operation from the terminal 20 of the customer.

[0045] In step S2, the customer information receiving unit 11 receives customer information including the customer's request to introduce the robot system. Specifically, the customer logs in to the information processing device 10 from their terminal 20, and the customer information receiving unit 11 displays an input screen G2 for the customer on the display unit 23. The customer uses the input unit 24 to input the name of the project, a rough sketch of the work, their address, required performance, desired delivery date, work shape, weight, gripping position, 3D data, work video, comments, and other customer information. The customer information receiving unit 11 receives the input customer information and stores it in the memory unit 15.

[0046] In step S3, the login accepting unit 17 accepts a login operation from the terminal 30 of the proposer.

[0047] In step S4, the robot system construction unit 14 accepts an operation for constructing a robot system from the proposer's terminal 30. The specifications of the robot system constructed by the robot system construction unit 14 are stored in the storage unit 15.

[0048] In step S5, the proposed information receiving unit 12 receives proposed information including the specifications of the robot system for the customer information. Specifically, the proposed information receiving unit 12 displays the proposer's input screen G6 on the display unit 31. The proposer uses the input unit 32 to input the project name, a rough sketch of the configuration, target performance, price, delivery date, a 3D model, inspection conditions, after-sales service, a list of incoming goods, a list of equipment used, and comments. Note that instead of the proposed information input into the input screen G6, the proposer can also submit proposed information including the proposer's area of ​​expertise, package information for robot systems that the proposer has previously proposed, and information on available work schedules.

[0049] In step S6, the information presenting unit 13 presents the proposed information on the display unit 23 of the customer's terminal 20 based on a request for information presentation from the customer. Furthermore, the information presenting unit 13 presents the proposed information on the display unit 31 of the proposer's terminal 30 based on a request for information presentation from the proposer. The information presenting unit 13 presents proposed information proposed by one proposer to the one proposer, but does not present proposed information proposed by other proposers to the one proposer. Furthermore, the information presenting unit 13 presents the proposed information on the display unit 16 of the information processing device 10 based on a request for information presentation from the matching service provider. The matching service provider then compares the customer information, including the customer's requirements, with the proposed information, including the specifications of the robot system, to determine which proposer's proposed information is compatible with the customer's customer information. The matching service provider also notifies the matched proposer and the customer of this fact.

[0050] [Effects of this embodiment] The information processing device 10 includes an information presenting unit 13 that presents the proposal information of each of the multiple proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit 12. As a result, the proposal information is presented by the information presenting unit 13, so that users such as owners and customers of the information processing device 10 can consider whether the proposal information matches customer information when introducing a robot system. Therefore, when introducing a robot system, users can consider appropriate robot system specifications.

[0051] The customer information receiving unit 11 receives, as customer information, at least one of the work area where the robot included in the robot system is to be placed and the work content to be performed by the robot. This allows the proposer to propose a robot system that meets the customer's requirements based on the work area where the robot is to be placed and the work content to be performed by the robot, which are included in the customer information.

[0052] The customer information receiving unit 11 receives three-dimensional data of the work area where the robot will be placed as customer information. This allows the proposer to propose a robot system that is more suitable for the actual work area based on the three-dimensional data of the work area.

[0053] The proposed information receiving unit 12 receives proposed information including at least one of the proposer's area of ​​expertise, package information of robot systems previously proposed by the proposer, and work availability information in addition to the specifications of the robot system. This allows the user to more appropriately consider the specifications of the robot system by taking into account the proposer's area of ​​expertise. Furthermore, the user can more appropriately consider the specifications of the robot system by taking into account package information of robot systems previously proposed by the proposer. Furthermore, the user can consider whether the introduction of the robot system can be carried out at the desired time by taking into account the work availability information.

[0054] The information processing device 10 includes a robot system construction unit 14 that allows a proposer to construct specifications for a robot system based on customer information received by a customer information reception unit 11. A proposed information reception unit 12 receives proposal information including the specifications for a robot system constructed by the robot system construction unit 14. This allows a proposer to easily construct specifications for a robot system even if the proposer does not have software for constructing the specifications for the robot system.

[0055] The robot system construction unit 14 displays a graphical user interface G4 for the proposer to construct the specifications of the robot system, and accepts input from the proposer for operations to construct the specifications of the robot system using the graphical user interface G4. As a result, the graphical user interface G4 is displayed, allowing the proposer to intuitively construct the specifications of the robot system.

[0056] The robot system construction unit 14 receives, as operations for constructing the specifications of a robot system, the selection of a robot from among multiple types of robots, input of the position of the selected robot, and input of the operation content of the selected robot. This allows the proposer to easily construct specifications of a robot system, including the type of robot, the position of the robot, and the operation content of the robot, in accordance with the customer information.

[0057] The robot system construction unit 14 generates an animated video representing the robot's movements based on the received robot movement content. This allows the user to easily check the specifications of the constructed robot system by viewing the animated video. As a result, the user can easily determine whether the specifications of the constructed robot system are appropriate.

[0058] The robot system construction unit 14 accepts the selection of peripheral devices related to the robot's operation as an operation for constructing the specifications of the robot system. This allows the construction of specifications for the robot system that include not only the robot but also the peripheral devices. As a result, the construction of specifications for the entire robot system can be performed.

[0059] The customer information receiving unit 11 receives customer information via the external network 1, and the proposed information receiving unit 12 receives proposed information via the external network 1. As a result, even if the customer and the proposer are located in remote locations, the information processing device 10 can receive the customer information and the proposed information via the external network 1. As a result, the customer and the proposer do not need to go to the location where the information processing device 10 is located.

[0060] The information presenting unit 13 presents the proposal information from each of the multiple proposers to the customer, and does not present the proposal information proposed by the remaining proposers to one of the multiple proposers, thereby preventing the proposal information from being leaked between proposers.

[0061] [Variations] It should be noted that the embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present disclosure is defined by the claims, not by the description of the above-mentioned embodiments, and further includes all modifications (variations) within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0062] In the above embodiment, an example has been shown in which the customer information receiving unit 11, the proposed information receiving unit 12, and the information presenting unit 13 are included in one server, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the customer information receiving unit 11, the proposed information receiving unit 12, and the information presenting unit 13 may be arranged separately in multiple servers connected to each other via the external network 1.

[0063] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the proposer is an SIer, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, as shown in the matching service according to the first modified example in FIG. 15 , the proposer may include a solution vendor in addition to the SIer. The solution vendor is, for example, a seller that sells products. For example, the solution vendor sells an appearance inspection device that inspects the appearance of an object to be inspected. The SIer may then propose proposal information that includes a proposal from the solution vendor. The solution vendor may also propose proposal information without going through the SIer. The solution vendor also pays a usage fee for using the information processing device 10.

[0064] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which a customer registers to use a matching service. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, as shown in the matching service according to the second modification of FIG. 16 , if a customer is unfamiliar with a matching service, a trading company or the like may introduce the customer to a matching service provider, and upon receiving a call from the matching service provider, the customer may register to use the matching service. In this case, the matching service provider pays the trading company a referral fee. For example, if the customer information obtained by a trading company from a customer is unrelated to the company, the customer information may not be utilized. However, by introducing the customer to the matching service, the trading company receives a referral fee and the customer may be able to introduce a robot system. Note that, as shown in the matching service according to the third modification of FIG. 17 , a customer and a trading company may enter into a contract for the introduction of a robot system, and the trading company may register to use the matching service. In this case, the trading company pays a usage fee for using the information processing device 10. The trading company also transmits customer information to the customer information receiving unit 11 of the information processing device 10. The trading company can also confirm the proposed information.

[0065] In the above embodiment, an example has been described in which the customer information receiving unit 11 receives, as customer information, both the work area in which the robot included in the robot system is placed and the work content to be performed by the robot, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the customer information receiving unit 11 may receive, as customer information, at least one of the work area in which the robot included in the robot system is placed and the work content to be performed by the robot.

[0066] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the three-dimensional data acquired by the data acquisition unit 22 of the customer terminal 20 is transmitted to the customer information receiving unit 11 as information on the work area where the robot is to be placed, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, three-dimensional CAD data of the work area where the robot is to be placed may be transmitted to the customer information receiving unit 11 as information on the work area where the robot is to be placed.

[0067] In the above embodiment, the proposed information receiving unit 12 receives proposed information including, in addition to the specifications of the robot system, all of the proposer's specialty area, package information of robot systems previously proposed by the proposer, and work availability information, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the proposed information receiving unit 12 may receive proposed information including, in addition to the specifications of the robot system, at least one of the proposer's specialty area, package information of robot systems previously proposed by the proposer, and work availability information.

[0068] In the above embodiment, an example has been shown in which the proposer constructs the specifications of the robot system using the robot system construction unit 14, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the proposer may construct the specifications of the robot system using software that the proposer himself owns.

[0069] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the robot system construction unit 14 is arranged in a server, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the robot system construction unit 14 may be arranged in the terminal 30 of the proposer or the terminal 20 of the customer. In this case, the information processing device of the present disclosure includes the server, the terminal 30 of the proposer, and the terminal 20 of the customer.

[0070] In the above embodiment, an example has been shown in which the robot system construction unit 14 accepts the selection of a robot from among a plurality of types of robots, the input of the placement position of the selected robot, and the input of the operation content of the selected robot, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the robot system construction unit 14 may only accept the selection of a robot from among a plurality of types of robots and the input of the placement position of the selected robot.

[0071] In the above embodiment, the robot system construction unit 14 generates an animated video representing the robot's movements based on the received robot movement content, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the robot system construction unit 14 may perform a simulation to optimize the robot's movements.

[0072] In the above embodiment, an example has been shown in which the customer information receiving unit 11 receives customer information via the external network 1, and the proposed information receiving unit 12 receives proposed information via the external network 1, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the customer and the proposer may directly operate the information processing device 10 without going through the external network 1.

[0073] In the above embodiment, the information presenting unit 13 does not present, to one of the multiple proposers, the proposal information proposed by the remaining proposers, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, the information presenting unit 13 may present the proposal information of one proposer to the other proposers.

[0074] In the above embodiment, an example was described in which a matching service provider compares customer information with proposal information to determine which proposer's proposal information is suitable for the customer's customer information. However, the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, as in an information processing device 40 according to a modified example shown in FIG. 18 , a matching unit 41 included in the information processing device 40 may match the customer information received by the customer information receiving unit 11 with the proposal information of multiple proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit 12. The matching unit 41 is a functional block that functions on software. Furthermore, the matching unit 41 may perform matching using, for example, technology such as AI. In this way, by including the matching unit 41 in the information processing device 10 that matches the customer information received by the customer information receiving unit 11 with the proposal information of multiple proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit 12, the matching service provider does not need to perform the matching manually, thereby reducing the burden on the matching service provider.

[0075] In the above embodiment, an example has been shown in which a customer operates the customer's terminal 20 to transmit customer information to the customer information receiving unit 11, but the present disclosure is not limited to this. For example, a matching service provider may visit a customer, and the matching service provider may operate the customer's terminal 20 to transmit customer information to the customer information receiving unit 11.

[0076] The functions of the elements disclosed herein can be performed using circuits or processing circuits, including general-purpose processors, special-purpose processors, integrated circuits, application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), conventional circuits, and / or combinations thereof, configured or programmed to perform the disclosed functions. A processor is considered a processing circuit or circuit because it includes transistors and other circuitry. In this disclosure, a circuit, unit, or means is hardware that performs the recited functions or hardware that is programmed to perform the recited functions. The hardware may be hardware disclosed herein or other known hardware that is programmed or configured to perform the recited functions. Where the hardware is a processor, which is considered a type of circuit, the circuit, means, or unit is a combination of hardware and software, and the software is used to configure the hardware and / or processor.

[0077] [Aspect] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the exemplary embodiments described above are examples of the following aspects.

[0078] (Aspect 1) a customer information receiving unit that receives customer information including a request from a customer who intends to introduce the robot system; a proposal information receiving unit that receives proposal information including specifications of the robot system for the customer information from a plurality of proposers; an information presenting unit that presents the proposal information of each of the plurality of proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit.

[0079] (Aspect 2) 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the customer information receiving unit receives, as the customer information, at least one of a work area in which a robot included in the robot system is placed and a work content to be performed by the robot.

[0080] (Aspect 3) 3. The information processing device according to aspect 2, wherein the customer information receiving unit receives, as the customer information, three-dimensional data of a working area in which the robot is placed.

[0081] (Aspect 4) The information processing device according to any one of aspects 1 to 3, wherein the proposed information receiving unit receives the proposed information including, in addition to the specifications of the robot system, at least one of the proposer's area of ​​expertise, package information of robot systems previously proposed by the proposer, and work availability information.

[0082] (Aspect 5) a robot system construction unit for the proposer to construct specifications of the robot system based on the customer information received by the customer information reception unit, 5. The information processing device according to any one of aspects 1 to 4, wherein the proposed information receiving unit receives the proposed information including specifications of the robot system constructed by the robot system construction unit.

[0083] (Aspect 6) The robot system construction unit displaying a graphical user interface for the proposer to construct a specification of the robot system; 6. The information processing device according to aspect 5, wherein the information processing device accepts input from the proposer of an operation for constructing specifications of the robot system using the graphical user interface.

[0084] (Aspect 7) The robot system construction unit performs the following operation to construct the specifications of the robot system: Selecting a robot from among multiple types of robots; Inputting the placement position of the selected robot; 7. The information processing device according to aspect 6, which receives an input of the operation details of the selected robot.

[0085] (Aspect 8) 8. The information processing device according to aspect 7, wherein the robot system construction unit generates an animated video representing the robot's movements based on the received robot movement content.

[0086] (Aspect 9) 9. The information processing device according to aspect 7 or aspect 8, wherein the robot system construction unit accepts a selection of a peripheral device related to the operation of the robot as an operation for constructing specifications of the robot system.

[0087] (Aspect 10) the customer information receiving unit receives the customer information via an external network, 10. The information processing device according to any one of aspects 1 to 9, wherein the proposed information receiving unit receives the proposed information via the external network.

[0088] (Aspect 11) The information presentation unit presenting the proposal information from each of the plurality of proposers to the customer; The information processing device according to any one of aspects 1 to 10, wherein one of the plurality of proposers is not presented with the proposal information proposed by the remaining proposers.

[0089] (Aspect 12) a matching unit that matches the customer information received by the customer information receiving unit with the proposal information of the plurality of proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit, 12. The information processing device according to any one of aspects 1 to 11, wherein the information presenting unit presents the proposal information of the proposer matched by the matching unit.

[0090] (Aspect 13) a customer information receiving unit receiving customer information including a request from a customer to introduce a robot system; a proposal information receiving unit receiving proposal information including specifications of the robot system for the customer information from a plurality of proposers; an information presenting unit presenting the proposal information of each of the plurality of proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 1. External Network 10. Information processing equipment 11 Customer Information Reception Department 12 Proposal Information Reception Department 13 Information presentation section 14 Robot System Construction Department 40 Information processing equipment 41 Matching Section G4 Graphical User Interface P work area

Claims

1. a customer information receiving unit that receives customer information including a request from a customer who intends to introduce the robot system; a proposal information receiving unit that receives proposal information including specifications of the robot system for the customer information from a plurality of proposers; an information presenting unit that presents the proposal information of each of the plurality of proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the customer information receiving unit receives, as the customer information, at least one of a work area in which a robot included in the robot system is arranged and a work content to be performed by the robot.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2 , wherein the customer information receiving unit receives, as the customer information, three-dimensional data of a work area in which the robot is placed.

4. 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the proposed information receiving unit receives the proposed information including, in addition to the specifications of the robot system, at least one of the proposer's area of ​​expertise, package information of robot systems previously proposed by the proposer, and work availability information.

5. a robot system construction unit for the proposer to construct specifications of the robot system based on the customer information received by the customer information reception unit, The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the proposed information receiving unit receives the proposed information including specifications of the robot system constructed by the robot system construction unit.

6. The robot system construction unit displaying a graphical user interface for the proposer to construct a specification of the robot system; The information processing device according to claim 5 , further comprising: an input from the proposer of an operation for constructing the specifications of the robot system using the graphical user interface.

7. The robot system construction unit performs the following operation to construct the specifications of the robot system: Selecting a robot from among multiple types of robots; Inputting the placement position of the selected robot; The information processing device according to claim 6 , further comprising: an input of the operation content of the selected robot;

8. The information processing device according to claim 7 , wherein the robot system construction unit generates an animated video representing the movement of the robot based on the received content of the movement of the robot.

9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 7 , wherein the robot system construction unit accepts a selection of a peripheral device related to the operation of the robot as an operation for constructing the specifications of the robot system.

10. the customer information receiving unit receives the customer information via an external network, The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the proposed information receiving unit receives the proposed information via the external network.

11. The information presentation unit presenting the proposal information from each of the plurality of proposers to the customer; The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein one of the plurality of proposers is not presented with proposal information proposed by the remaining proposers.

12. a matching unit that matches the customer information received by the customer information receiving unit with the proposal information of the plurality of proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit, The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the information presenting unit presents the proposal information of the proposer matched by the matching unit.

13. a customer information receiving unit receiving customer information including a request from a customer to introduce a robot system; a proposal information receiving unit receiving proposal information including specifications of the robot system for the customer information from a plurality of proposers; an information presenting unit presenting the proposal information of each of the plurality of proposers received by the proposal information receiving unit.

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