Control device, molding machine, communication setting method, and computer program

Abstract

To provide a controller which enables smooth communication setting work of a molding machine and an external peripheral device.SOLUTION: A control device of a molding machine includes a communication unit that communicates with an external peripheral device, a storage unit that stores image data of a setting screen displayed on the external peripheral device when setting communication information related to at least an IP address assigned to the external peripheral device in the external peripheral device, and a control unit, wherein the control unit displays an image of the setting screen based on the image data stored in the storage unit, receives the communication information, and sets the received communication information as information related to a data transmission destination.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device, a molding machine, a communication setting method, and a computer program. [Background technology]

[0002] To achieve a desired purpose, external peripheral devices such as a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) may be connected to the control device of a molding machine. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for using a PLC to collect sensor data for estimating the lifespan, abnormality level, etc. of components constituting an injection molding machine. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2024-009613 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a control device, a molding machine, a communication setting method, and a computer program that enable smooth communication setting work between a molding machine and external peripheral devices. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A control device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a control device for a molding machine, and includes a communication unit that communicates with an external peripheral device, a memory unit that stores image data of a setting screen that is displayed on an external peripheral device when setting communication information related to at least an IP address to be assigned to the external peripheral device in the external peripheral device, and a control unit, wherein the control unit displays an image of the setting screen based on the image data stored in the memory unit, accepts the communication information, and sets the accepted communication information as information related to a data transmission destination.

[0006] A molding machine according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a communication unit that communicates with an external peripheral device, a memory unit that stores image data of a setting screen that is displayed on an external peripheral device when setting communication information related to at least an IP address to be assigned to the external peripheral device in the external peripheral device, and a control unit, wherein the control unit displays an image of the setting screen based on the image data stored in the memory unit, accepts the communication information, and sets the accepted communication information as information related to a data transmission destination.

[0007] A communication setting method according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a communication setting method between a molding machine and an external peripheral device, in which the molding machine displays an image of the setting screen based on image data of the setting screen displayed on the external peripheral device when setting communication information relating to at least an IP address to be assigned to the external peripheral device in the external peripheral device, accepts the communication information, and sets the accepted communication information as information relating to the data transmission destination.

[0008] A computer program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a computer program that causes a computer of a molding machine to execute processing related to communication settings between the molding machine and an external peripheral device, and causes the computer to execute processing to display an image of the setting screen based on image data of the setting screen displayed on the external peripheral device when setting communication information related to at least an IP address to be assigned to the external peripheral device in the external peripheral device, accept the communication information, and set the accepted communication information as information related to the data transmission destination. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide a control device, a molding machine, a communication setting method, and a computer program that enable smooth communication setting work between a molding machine and external peripheral devices. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an injection molding system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 3] 1 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an external peripheral device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] 5 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for communication setting according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a communication information setting screen according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure relating to registration and editing of setting screen image data. [Figure 7] 10 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for communication setting according to the second embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing a method for creating a communication information setting file. [Figure 10] 11 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for creating a communication information setting file according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a conceptual diagram showing a communication setting method for reflecting communication information set on the external peripheral device side in the control device of the molding machine. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] A control device, a molding machine, a communication setting method, and a computer program according to embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims. Furthermore, at least some of the embodiments described below may be combined in any manner.

[0012] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the configuration of an injection molding system according to embodiment 1. The injection molding system according to embodiment 1 includes an injection molding machine 1, an external peripheral device 5, and a storage server (storage device) 6. The injection molding machine 1 and the external peripheral device 5 are communicably connected via a communication network N based on Ethernet (registered trademark) or the like. Note that while the injection molding machine 1 will be described as an example, the technology disclosed herein can also be applied in the same manner to a case where an extruder and the external peripheral device 5 are communicatively connected via the communication network N.

[0013] <Summary of this disclosure> When connecting the injection molding machine 1 and the external peripheral device 5 for communication via a communication network N based on Ethernet or the like, the user configures communication settings with the external peripheral device 5 from the control screen of the injection molding machine 1. The settings and display contents differ between the control screen of the injection molding machine 1 and the setting screen of the external peripheral device 5, which can lead to incorrect settings.

[0014] There are many types of external peripheral devices 5 that can be connected to the injection molding machine 1, and the setting screen varies depending on the model. Furthermore, the number of communication ports and hardware configuration of the external peripheral devices 5 also differ. If the actual setting screen displayed on the external peripheral device 5 could be checked, it would be possible to understand the configuration of the external peripheral device 5 and then perform communication settings. However, it is not uncommon for the external peripheral device 5 to be installed in a location far from the injection molding machine 1, making it easy for mistakes to occur in the communication settings.

[0015] The injection molding system according to the present disclosure solves such technical problems and assists in communication settings by displaying an image of the setting screen of the external peripheral device 5 on the injection molding machine 1. The configuration of the injection molding system will be described in detail below.

[0016] <Injection molding machine 1> The injection molding machine 1 includes a mold clamping device 2 that clamps a mold 21, an injection device 3 that melts and injects molding material, and a control device 4.

[0017] The mold clamping device 2 includes a fixed platen 22 fixed on a bed 20, a mold clamping housing 23 slidably provided on the bed 20, and a movable platen 24 that similarly slides on the bed 20. The fixed platen 22 and the mold clamping housing 23 are connected by a plurality of, for example, four tie bars 25, 25, .... The movable platen 24 is configured to be slidable between the fixed platen 22 and the mold clamping housing 23. A mold clamping mechanism 26 is provided between the mold clamping housing 23 and the movable platen 24. The mold clamping mechanism 26 is configured, for example, by a toggle mechanism. Note that the mold clamping mechanism 26 may also be configured as a direct pressure type mold clamping mechanism, i.e., a mold clamping cylinder. A fixed mold 28 and a movable mold 27 are provided on the fixed platen 22 and the movable platen 24, respectively, and the mold 21 is opened and closed when the mold clamping mechanism 26 is driven. The mold clamping device 2 also includes an ejector pin for removing the molded product from the mold 21, and a drive motor for driving the ejector pin.

[0018] The injection device 3 is provided on a base 30. The injection device 3 includes a heating cylinder 31 having a nozzle 31a at its tip, and a screw 32 disposed within the heating cylinder 31 so as to be rotatable in the circumferential and axial directions. A heater for melting the molding material is provided inside or on the outer periphery of the heating cylinder 31. The screw 32 is driven in the rotational and axial directions by a drive device 35.

[0019] A hopper 33 into which molding material is poured is provided near the rear end of the heating cylinder 31. The injection molding machine 1 also includes a nozzle touch device 34 that moves the injection unit 3 in the front-to-rear direction (the left-to-right direction in FIG. 1). When the nozzle touch device 34 is driven, the injection unit 3 moves forward and the nozzle 31a of the heating cylinder 31 touches the contact portion of the fixed platen 22.

[0020] The control device 4 is a computer that controls the operation of the injection molding machine 1. Molding conditions for operating the injection molding machine 1 are set in the control device 4. The control device 4 outputs command signals to the injection molding machine 1 based on various set values ​​indicated by the molding conditions and detection values ​​of sensors (not shown) provided in the mold clamping device 2 or the injection device 3, and operates the injection molding machine 1.

[0021] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device 4 according to embodiment 1. The control device 4 is a computer, and includes a control unit 41, a storage unit 42, a touch panel display 43, a signal input / output unit 44, a communication unit 45, and a communication connector 46.

[0022] The control unit 41 includes an arithmetic processing circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a multi-core CPU, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), and an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), an internal storage device such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory), and an I / O terminal. The control unit 41 functions as the control device 4 according to this embodiment by executing a computer program P1 (a program product) stored in a storage unit 42 (described later). The control unit 41, which executes the computer program P1, executes processing related to a communication setting method according to this embodiment, which accepts communication settings necessary for establishing a communication connection between the control device 4 and an external peripheral device 5. The control unit 41 also displays the status of the injection molding machine 1 on a touch panel display 43 and controls the operation of each component of the injection molding machine 1 in response to an operation operation on the touch panel display 43. Note that each functional unit of the control device 4 may be realized by software, hardware, or a combination thereof.

[0023] The storage unit 42 includes a nonvolatile memory such as a hard disk, flash memory, or SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 42 stores a computer program P1 referenced by the control unit 41, one or more setting screen image data 42a, and various other programs and data. The computer program P1 includes at least a program for accepting communication settings necessary for a communication connection between the control device 4 and the external peripheral device 5. The computer program P1 also includes a control program for causing the computer to execute processes for displaying the operating status of the injection molding machine 1 on the display panel 43a, accepting operation instructions for the injection molding machine 1, and controlling the operation of the injection molding machine 1. The setting screen image data 42a is image data of a setting screen displayed on the external peripheral device 5 when communication information, such as an IP address and a communication port number, assigned to the external peripheral device 5 is set in the external peripheral device 5. Assuming that one of multiple types of external peripheral devices 5 is connected to the control device 4, the storage unit 42 stores image data of the setting screen for each of the multiple types of external peripheral devices 5 in association with the name of the external peripheral device 5.

[0024] The computer program P1 may be provided by a non-transitory recording medium M1 on which the computer program P1 is readably recorded. The control unit 41 stores the computer program P1 read from the recording medium M1 by a reading device (not shown). The recording medium M1 may be, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory. The computer program P1 may also be downloaded from an external server connected to the communication network N and stored in the control unit 41. The computer program P1 may be a single computer program or may be composed of multiple computer programs, and may be executed on a single computer or on multiple computers interconnected by the communication network N.

[0025] The touch panel display 43 includes a display panel 43a and a touch sensor 43b. The display panel 43a has a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display. In accordance with instructions from the control unit 41, the touch panel display 43 displays a communication information setting screen 8 (see FIG. 5) for setting communication information for connecting to external peripheral devices 5, and a status screen for displaying the operating status of the injection molding machine 1. The touch sensor 43b is, for example, a touch panel device with a built-in display, and accepts tap operations by the user. The touch sensor 43b also accepts input of operating operations by the user and sends a command signal corresponding to the operation content to the control unit 41.

[0026] The signal input / output unit 44 includes a signal input terminal to which measurement value signals output from various sensors provided in the injection molding machine 1 are input, and a signal output terminal to which command signals for controlling the operation of the mold clamping unit 2 or the injection unit 3 are output to the drive unit of the mold clamping unit 2 or the injection unit 3 in accordance with the control of the control unit 41.

[0027] The communication unit 45 is a communication circuit that transmits and receives information in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol such as Ethernet (registered trademark). The communication unit 45 is connected to the external peripheral device 5 and the storage server 6 via a communication network N based on Ethernet or the like, and the control unit 41 can transmit and receive various information to and from the external peripheral device 5 and the storage server 6 via the communication unit 45.

[0028] The communication connector 46 is a connector to which the portable storage medium 7 is connected. The portable storage medium 7 is, for example, a USB memory, and the communication connector 46 is a USB connector.

[0029] <External peripheral device 5> 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the external peripheral device 5 according to the first embodiment. The external peripheral device 5 is, for example, a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), and includes a processing unit 51, a storage unit 52, a display unit 53, an operation unit 54, one or more communication units 55, and a communication connector 56. The external peripheral device 5 receives and stores various data output from the control device 4. For example, the external peripheral device 5 stores signal data output from various sensors provided in the injection molding machine 1, operating conditions, etc. A user can customize the various data stored in the external peripheral device 5 and display or process it.

[0030] The processing unit 51 has an arithmetic processing circuit such as a CPU, a multi-core CPU, an ASIC, or an FPGA, an internal storage device such as a ROM or RAM, an I / O terminal, etc. The processing unit 51 receives, stores, displays, and performs predetermined arithmetic processing on various data transmitted from the injection molding machine 1 by executing a computer program P2 (program product) stored in a storage unit 52 (described later). The processing unit 51 executing the computer program P2 processes various data obtained from the injection molding machine 1 and displays the data on a display unit 53, and performs various processes in response to operations on an operation unit 54. Note that each functional unit of the processing unit 51 may be realized by software, by hardware, or by a combination of these.

[0031] The storage unit 52 includes a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk, a flash memory, or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage unit 52 stores a computer program P2 referenced by the control unit 41, as well as various other programs and data. The computer program P2 includes at least a program for accepting communication settings required for a communication connection between the control device 4 and the external peripheral device 5. The computer program P2 also includes a program for transmitting and receiving data and performing required data processing.

[0032] The computer program P2 may be provided by a non-transitory recording medium M2 on which the computer program P2 is readably recorded. The control unit 41 stores the computer program P2 read from the recording medium M2 by a reading device (not shown). The recording medium M2 may be, for example, a magnetic disk, an optical disk, or a semiconductor memory. The computer program P2 may also be downloaded from an external server connected to the communication network N and stored in the control unit 41. The computer program P2 may be a single computer program or may be composed of multiple computer programs, and may be executed on a single computer or on multiple computers interconnected by the communication network N.

[0033] The display unit 53 is a liquid crystal panel, an organic EL display, electronic paper, a plasma display, etc. The display unit 53 displays various information according to the image data provided from the processing unit 51.

[0034] The operation unit 54 is an input device such as a touch panel, soft keys, hard keys, a keyboard, or a mouse.

[0035] The communication unit 55 is a communication circuit or communication unit that transmits and receives information in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol such as Ethernet (registered trademark). The communication unit 55 is connected to the control device 4 and the storage server 6 of the injection molding machine 1 via a communication network N based on Ethernet or the like, and the processing unit 51 can transmit and receive various information between the control device 4 and the storage server 6 via the communication unit 55. Note that the external peripheral device 5 may be provided with multiple communication units 55.

[0036] The communication connector 56 is a connector to which the portable storage medium 7 is connected. The portable storage medium 7 is, for example, a USB memory, and the communication connector 56 is a USB connector.

[0037] <Communication information setting process> Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for communication setting according to the first embodiment, and Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a communication information setting screen 8 according to the first embodiment. Here, the processing for setting communication information necessary for transmitting data from the control device 4 to the external peripheral device 5, that is, the IP address and communication port number of the external peripheral device 5, in the control device 4 and the external peripheral device 5 will be mainly described. When setting communication information required for transmitting data from the external peripheral device 5 to the control device 4, a process of setting the IP address and communication port number of the control device 4 to the control device 4 and the external peripheral device 5 is executed.

[0038] The control unit 41 displays the communication information setting screen 8 (step S111). As shown in Fig. 5, the communication information setting screen 8 includes a communication information input unit 81 for inputting communication information, a setting screen display unit 82 for displaying an image 82b of the setting screen of the specific external peripheral device 5, and a communication information input / output operation unit 83 for operating the input / output of communication information.

[0039] The communication information input section 81 includes a pull-down menu 81a for selecting whether or not to use the external peripheral device 5. The communication information input section 81 also includes a text input field 81b for inputting an IP address to be assigned to the external peripheral device 5, and a text input field 81c for inputting a communication port number.

[0040] Furthermore, the communication information input section 81 includes a text input field 81d for inputting setting work information related to the setting work of communication information in the external peripheral device 5. For example, if the external storage device has multiple communication units or communication circuits, matters to be noted when setting communication information, such as specifying the communication unit or communication circuit to which an IP address and communication port number should be set, are input. Any information can be input into the text input field 81d.

[0041] The setting screen display unit 82 includes a pull-down menu 82a for selecting a specific external peripheral device 5 from among multiple types of external peripheral devices 5. The user operates the pull-down menu 82a to select a specific external peripheral device 5 to be connected to the control device 4 from among multiple types of external peripheral devices 5.

[0042] Furthermore, the setting screen display unit 82 displays an image 82b of the setting screen based on the setting screen image data 42a of the selected external peripheral device 5.

[0043] Furthermore, the setting screen display unit 82 includes a setting screen image data read button 82c and an edit button 82d. Since a wide variety of external peripheral devices 5 can be connected to the control device 4 and the layout of the setting screen usually changes depending on the product version, the control device 4 is configured to be able to read and store the latest setting screen image data 42a of the external peripheral devices 5, as will be described later. The setting screen image data 42a stored in the storage unit 42 can also be edited as needed.

[0044] The communication information input / output operation unit 83 includes a save operation button 83a ("Save to USB / Cloud" button in FIG. 5) for externally outputting the IP address, communication port number, and communication setting work information set in the control device 4. The IP address and communication port number set in the control device 4 are communication information set in the control device 4 in order to transmit data from the control device 4 to the external peripheral device 5, and indicate the external peripheral device 5 to which the data is to be sent. The same communication information as the IP address and communication port number must also be set in the external peripheral device 5, and the save operation button 83a is a button for externally outputting the IP address and communication port number. Details of external output will be described later. It also includes a read operation button 83b ("Read USB / Cloud" button in FIG. 5) for reading the IP address and communication port number of the control device 4. Details of setting communication information using the read operation button 83b will be described in the third embodiment.

[0045] The control unit 41 receives a selection of a specific external peripheral device 5 from among multiple types of external peripheral devices 5 (step S112). Based on the setting screen image data 42a of the selected external peripheral device 5, the control unit 41 displays an image 82b of the setting screen on the communication information setting screen 8 (step S113).

[0046] In addition, the control unit 41 may be configured to display the communication information setting screen 8 including an image 82b of a specified external peripheral device 5 based on the setting screen image data 42a of the specified external peripheral device 5 in the processing of step S111, and to display the image 82b of the setting screen of the selected external peripheral device 5 in the processing of steps S112 and S113.

[0047] Next, the control unit 41 receives an IP address and a communication port number to be assigned to the external peripheral device 5 (step S114), and receives setting work information for communication information in the external peripheral device 5 (step S115). Specifically, the user can input the IP address and the communication port number in the text input fields 81b and 81c of the communication information input unit 81, and input the setting work information in the text input field 81d.

[0048] Next, the control unit 41 determines whether the save operation button 83a has been operated (step S116). If it is determined that the save operation button 83a has not been operated (step S116: NO), the control unit 41 returns the process to step S112 and continues the process of setting communication information.

[0049] If it is determined that the save operation button 83a has been operated (step S116: YES), the control unit 41 sets the communication information received in step S114 as information related to the data transmission destination in the control device 4 (step S117). Next, the control unit 41 outputs the communication information and setting work information received in steps S114 and S115 to the outside as information related to the data transmission destination to be set in the external peripheral device 5 (information indicating the location of the device that receives the data) (step S118), and ends the process.

[0050] The method of external output is not particularly limited. For example, the control unit 41 outputs the communication information and the setting work information by uploading them to a storage server 6 accessible by the external peripheral device 5 via the communication network N. The control unit 41 also outputs the communication information and the setting work information by writing them to a portable storage medium 7 connected to the communication connector 46.

[0051] The external peripheral device 5 can download the communication information stored in the storage server 6. Furthermore, when the portable storage medium 7 storing the communication information is connected to the communication connector 56 of the external peripheral device 5, the external peripheral device 5 can read the communication information from the portable storage medium 7. The external peripheral device 5 can set the IP address and communication port number included in the communication information to the external peripheral device 5 while checking the setting work information included in the communication information through a user operation.

[0052] <Registration process of setting screen image data 42a> 6 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for registering and editing the setting screen image data 42a. The control unit 41 acquires the setting screen image data 42a of the communication information in the external peripheral device 5 (step S131). For example, the user connects the portable storage medium 7 storing the setting screen image data 42a to the communication connector 46 and operates the setting screen image data read button 82c. When the setting screen image data read button 82c is operated, the control unit 41 acquires the setting screen image data 42a by reading it out from the portable storage medium 7. The control unit 41 then stores the acquired setting screen image data in the storage unit 42 (step S132).

[0053] Next, the control unit 41 determines whether the edit button 82d has been operated (step S133). If it is determined that the edit button 83d has not been operated (step S133: NO), the control unit 41 ends the process. If it is determined that the edit button 83d has been operated (step S133: YES), the control unit 41 accepts an edit process for the setting screen image data 42a stored in the storage unit 42 (step S134), and saves the edited setting screen image data 42a in the storage unit 42 (step S135). For example, it is possible to write text such as an explanation or a comment on the image of the setting screen, or to attach an image that highlights a specific part.

[0054] <Action and effect> As described above, according to the injection molding system of this embodiment 1, errors in the communication settings of the injection molding machine 1 and the external peripheral device 5 can be reduced by accepting the settings of communication information while displaying an image of the setting screen of the external peripheral device 5 on the touch panel display 43 of the injection molding machine 1.

[0055] The storage unit 42 also stores setting screen image data 42a for each of a plurality of types of external peripheral devices 5, and the user can select an external peripheral device 5 to be connected to the control device 4 and check the image of the setting screen of the selected external peripheral device 5. After checking the image of the setting screen of the selected external peripheral device 5, the user can set communication information in the control device 4. This makes it possible to prevent errors in the communication settings of the injection molding machine 1 and the external peripheral device 5.

[0056] Furthermore, when setting communication information in the control device 4, the user can check the image of the setting screen of the external peripheral device 5 and input into the control device 4 as setting work information any points that need to be noted when setting communication information on the external peripheral device 5 side.

[0057] The control device 4 can upload the input setting information and setting work information to the storage server 6 and output it externally by writing it to a portable storage medium 7, etc. The external peripheral device 5 can acquire the communication information and setting work information in accordance with the user's operation, and can set an IP address and a communication port number in the external peripheral device 5. The user can set the IP address and communication port number after checking the content of the setting work information.

[0058] The control device 4 can acquire and store setting screen image data 42a of any external peripheral device 5. In addition, the user can freely edit the setting screen image data 42a stored in the storage unit 42.

[0059] (Embodiment 2) The injection molding system according to the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it can output communication setting information set in the control device 4 of the injection molding machine 1 to the outside in a format that can be automatically imported by the external peripheral device 5. The other configurations of the injection molding system are the same as those of the injection molding system according to the first embodiment, so the same parts are given the same reference numerals and detailed explanations will be omitted.

[0060] 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the control device 4 according to the second embodiment. The configuration of the control device 4 according to the second embodiment is the same as that of the first embodiment, but differs from that of the first embodiment in that the storage unit 42 stores a communication information setting template 42b. The communication information setting template 42b is a file based on a format for describing communication information so that the external peripheral device 5 can import the data. The communication information setting template 42b is a text file (see the upper diagram in FIG. 9). The storage unit 42 may be configured to prepare and store communication information templates for each of multiple types of external peripheral devices 5.

[0061] Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for communication settings according to the second embodiment, and Fig. 9 is a conceptual diagram showing a method for creating a communication information setting file. The control unit 41 executes the same processes as steps S111 to S116 described in the first embodiment (steps S211 to S216), and if it is determined in step S216 that an operation button has been operated (step S216: YES), the control unit 41 reads out a communication information template from the storage unit 42 (step S217). The control unit 41 may be configured to read out a communication information template corresponding to the external peripheral device 5 selected in step S212.

[0062] The communication information template is a text file including characters or tags indicating the IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, communication port number, communication protocol, and setting work information of the external peripheral device 5, as shown in the upper diagram of FIG.

[0063] Then, the control unit 41 creates a communication information setting file by writing the communication information and setting work information received in steps S214 and S215 into the communication information setting template 42b as shown in the lower diagram of Fig. 9 (step S218). The communication information setting file is a file from which the external peripheral device 5 can automatically read communication information.

[0064] Then, the control unit 41 sets the communication information received in step S214 in the control device 4 as information related to the data transmission destination (step S219). Next, the control unit 41 outputs the communication information setting file created in step S218 to the outside (step S220), and ends the process.

[0065] The method of external output is not particularly limited. For example, the control unit 41 outputs the communication information setting file by uploading the communication information setting file to a storage server 6 accessible by the external peripheral device 5 via the communication network N. Alternatively, the control unit 41 outputs the communication information setting file by writing the communication information setting file to a portable storage medium 7 connected to the communication connector 46.

[0066] The external peripheral device 5 can download the communication information setting file stored in the storage server 6. Furthermore, when the portable storage medium 7 storing the communication information is connected to the communication connector 56 of the external peripheral device 5, the external peripheral device 5 can read the communication information setting file from the portable storage medium 7. The external peripheral device 5 extracts communication information from the downloaded or read communication information setting file and sets the extracted communication information. The processing unit 51 of the external peripheral device 5 may set the communication information after receiving a confirmation operation from the user, or may be configured to automatically read and set the communication information.

[0067] As described above, according to the injection molding system of this embodiment 2, in addition to the effects described in embodiment 1, the external peripheral device 5 can automatically or semi-automatically retrieve and set the communication information set on the control device 4 side of the injection molding machine 1.

[0068] (Embodiment 3) The injection molding system according to the third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that the injection molding machine 1 reads the communication information and communication setting work information set on the external peripheral device 5 side from the storage server 6 or the portable storage medium 7 and reflects the communication settings. The other configurations of the injection molding system are the same as those of the injection molding systems according to the first and second embodiments, so the same reference numerals are used for the same parts and detailed description will be omitted.

[0069] The external peripheral device 5 executes the same process as the control device 4 of the second embodiment and outputs the communication information setting file to the outside. The communication information setting file is assumed to have been uploaded to the storage server 6 or written to the portable storage medium 7 by the external output. Next, a procedure for reflecting the communication information on the control device 4 side will be described.

[0070] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the processing steps for creating a communication information setting file according to the third embodiment, and FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing a communication setting method for reflecting the communication information set on the external peripheral device 5 side in the control device 4 of the injection molding machine 1.

[0071] The control unit 41 of the control device 4 displays the molding machine side setting display screen 9 on the display panel 43a (step S311). The molding machine side setting display screen 9 includes a read operation button 91 ("USB / Cloud Read" button in FIG. 11) for reading communication information, etc., a setting information display section 92, and a communication setting work information display section 93.

[0072] When the read operation button 91 is operated, the control unit 41 acquires the communication information setting file uploaded to the storage server 6 or written to the portable storage medium 7 (step S312). As shown in the upper diagram of Fig. 11, the communication information setting file includes information such as the IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, communication port number, communication protocol, and communication setting work information set in the external peripheral device 5.

[0073] Then, the control unit 41 displays the acquired communication information on the molding machine side setting display screen 9 (step S313). Specifically, the display panel 43a displays the IP address, communication port number, etc. included in the communication information on the setting information display unit 92. In addition, the control unit 41 displays the communication setting work information on the communication setting work information display unit 93.

[0074] The control unit 41 sets the communication information described in the acquired communication information setting file (step S314), and ends the process.

[0075] According to the injection molding system of embodiment 3 configured as described above, the external peripheral device 5 can automatically or semi-automatically retrieve the communication information set on the external peripheral device 5 side and set it in the control device 4 of the injection molding machine 1.

[0076] The means for solving the problems of the present disclosure are described below. (Appendix 1) A control device for a molding machine, a communication unit for communicating with external peripheral devices; a storage unit that stores image data of a setting screen that is displayed on the external peripheral device when communication information related to an IP address to be assigned to the external peripheral device is set in the external peripheral device; Control unit and Equipped with The control unit displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data stored in the storage unit; receiving the communication information; The received communication information is set as information relating to the data transmission destination. Control device. (Appendix 2) The control unit The received communication information is output to the outside as information to be set in the external peripheral device. 10. The control device of claim 1. (Appendix 3) The control unit The communication information is output to an external device by uploading the communication information to a storage device accessible by the external peripheral device via a network. 10. The control device according to claim 1 or 2. (Appendix 4) The control unit The communication information is written to a portable storage medium, and thereby the communication information is output to an external device. 4. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3. (Appendix 5) The control unit receiving setting information related to setting work of the communication information in the external peripheral device; The received setting work information is output to an external device together with the communication information. 5. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4. (Appendix 6) The storage unit storing image data of the setting screen for each of a plurality of types of external peripheral devices; The control unit Accepting a selection of the external peripheral device; A setting screen image of the selected external peripheral device is displayed based on the image data of the setting screen of the selected external peripheral device. 6. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5. (Appendix 7) The control unit Acquiring the image data from an external source; The acquired image data is stored in the storage unit. 7. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6. (Appendix 8) The control unit Accepting editing of the image data; The edited image data is stored in the storage unit. 8. The control device of any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 7. (Appendix 9) The storage unit the external peripheral device stores a communication information setting template for describing the communication information so that the communication information can be imported as data; The control unit writing the received communication information into the communication information setting template to create a communication information setting file that can be imported by the external peripheral device; The created communication information setting file is output to an external device as the communication information. 9. The control device of any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 8. (Appendix 10) The control unit acquiring a communication information setting file in which communication information set in the external peripheral device is written so as to be able to be imported; Set the communication information described in the acquired communication information setting file. 10. The control device of any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 9. (Appendix 11) The communication information is The IP address and communication port number to be assigned to the external peripheral device are included. 11. The control device of any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 10. (Appendix 12) The control unit a communication information setting screen including a communication information input section for inputting the communication information and a setting screen display section for displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data; 12. The control device according to any one of claims 1 to 11. (Appendix 13) The control unit a communication information setting screen including a communication information input section for inputting the communication information and a setting screen display section for displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data, and an operation button for externally outputting the communication information; 13. The control device of any one of claims 1 to 12. (Appendix 14) The storage unit the external peripheral device stores a communication information setting template for describing the communication information so that the communication information can be imported as data; The control unit acquiring image data of the setting screen for each of a plurality of types of external peripheral devices from an external device; storing the acquired plurality of image data in the storage unit; Accepting a selection of the external peripheral device; displaying a communication information setting screen including a communication information input section for inputting the communication information including an IP address and a communication port number to be assigned to the external peripheral device, and a setting screen display section for displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data of the setting screen of the selected external peripheral device, and an operation button for externally outputting the communication information; receiving an IP address and a communication port number as the communication information and setting work information related to setting work of the communication information in the external peripheral device; writing the received communication information and setting work information into the communication information setting template to create a communication information setting file that can be imported by the external peripheral device; The communication information setting file is output to the outside by uploading the communication information to a storage device accessible by the external peripheral device via a network or by writing the communication information to a portable storage medium. 14. The control device of any one of claims 1 to 13. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 1: Injection molding machine 2: Mold clamping device 3: Injection device 4: Control device 5: External peripherals 6: Storage server 7: Portable storage media 8: Communication information setting screen 9: Molding machine side setting display screen 41: Control unit 42: Storage section 43: Touch panel display 44: Signal input / output section 45: Communications Department 46: Communication connector 81: Communication information input section 82:Setting screen display area 83: Communication information input / output operation unit M1, M2: Recording medium P1: Computer Program P2: Computer Program

Claims

1. A control device for a molding machine, a communication unit for communicating with external peripheral devices; a storage unit that stores image data of a setting screen that is displayed on the external peripheral device when communication information related to an IP address to be assigned to the external peripheral device is set in the external peripheral device; Control unit and Equipped with The control unit displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data stored in the storage unit; receiving the communication information; The received communication information is set as information relating to the data transmission destination. Control device.

2. The control unit The received communication information is output to the outside as information to be set in the external peripheral device. The control device according to claim 1 .

3. The control unit The communication information is output to an external device by uploading the communication information to a storage device accessible by the external peripheral device via a network. The control device according to claim 2 .

4. The control unit The communication information is written to a portable storage medium, and thereby the communication information is output to an external device. The control device according to claim 2 .

5. The control unit receiving setting information related to setting work of the communication information in the external peripheral device; The received setting work information is output to an external device together with the communication information. The control device according to claim 1 .

6. The storage unit storing image data of the setting screen for each of a plurality of types of external peripheral devices; The control unit Accepting a selection of the external peripheral device; A setting screen image of the selected external peripheral device is displayed based on the image data of the setting screen of the selected external peripheral device. The control device according to claim 1 .

7. The control unit Acquiring the image data from an external source; The acquired image data is stored in the storage unit. The control device according to claim 1 .

8. The control unit Accepting editing of the image data; The edited image data is stored in the storage unit. The control device according to claim 7.

9. The storage unit the external peripheral device stores a communication information setting template for describing the communication information so that the communication information can be imported as data; The control unit writing the received communication information into the communication information setting template to create a communication information setting file that can be imported by the external peripheral device; The created communication information setting file is output to an external device as the communication information. The control device according to claim 1 .

10. The control unit acquiring a communication information setting file in which communication information set in the external peripheral device is written so as to be able to be imported; Set the communication information described in the acquired communication information setting file. The control device according to claim 1 .

11. The communication information is The IP address and communication port number to be assigned to the external peripheral device are included. The control device according to claim 1 .

12. The control unit a communication information setting screen including a communication information input section for inputting the communication information and a setting screen display section for displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data; The control device according to claim 1 .

13. The control unit a communication information setting screen including a communication information input section for inputting the communication information and a setting screen display section for displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data, and an operation button for outputting the communication information to an external device; The control device according to claim 2 .

14. The storage unit the external peripheral device stores a communication information setting template for describing the communication information so that the communication information can be imported as data; The control unit acquiring image data of the setting screen for each of a plurality of types of external peripheral devices from an external device; storing the acquired plurality of image data in the storage unit; Accepting a selection of the external peripheral device; displaying a communication information setting screen including a communication information input section for inputting the communication information including an IP address and a communication port number to be assigned to the external peripheral device, and a setting screen display section for displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data of the setting screen of the selected external peripheral device, and an operation button for externally outputting the communication information; receiving an IP address and a communication port number as the communication information and setting information related to setting work of the communication information in the external peripheral device; writing the received communication information and setting work information into the communication information setting template to create a communication information setting file that can be imported by the external peripheral device; The communication information setting file is output to the outside by uploading the communication information to a storage device accessible by the external peripheral device via a network or by writing the communication information to a portable storage medium. The control device according to claim 1 .

15. a communication unit for communicating with external peripheral devices; a storage unit that stores image data of a setting screen that is displayed on the external peripheral device when communication information related to an IP address to be assigned to the external peripheral device is set in the external peripheral device; Control unit and Equipped with The control unit displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data stored in the storage unit; receiving the communication information; The received communication information is set as information relating to the data transmission destination. Molding machine.

16. The storage unit the external peripheral device stores a communication information setting template for describing the communication information so that the communication information can be imported as data; The control unit acquiring image data of the setting screen for each of a plurality of types of external peripheral devices from an external device; storing the acquired plurality of image data; Accepting a selection of the external peripheral device; displaying a communication information setting screen including a communication information input section for inputting the communication information including an IP address and a communication port number to be assigned to the external peripheral device, and a setting screen display section for displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data of the setting screen of the selected external peripheral device, and an operation button for externally outputting the communication information; receiving an IP address and a communication port number as the communication information and setting information related to setting work of the communication information in the external peripheral device; writing the received communication information and setting work information into the communication information setting template to create a communication information setting file that can be imported by the external peripheral device; The communication information setting file is output to the outside by uploading the communication information to a storage device accessible by the external peripheral device via a network or by writing the communication information to a portable storage medium. The molding machine according to claim 15.

17. A method for setting communication between a molding machine and an external peripheral device, The molding machine comprises: displaying an image of the setting screen based on image data of a setting screen displayed on the external peripheral device when setting communication information relating to at least an IP address to be assigned to the external peripheral device in the external peripheral device; receiving the communication information; The received communication information is set as information relating to the data transmission destination. How to set up communication.

18. The molding machine comprises: acquiring image data of the setting screen for each of a plurality of types of external peripheral devices from an external device; storing the acquired plurality of image data; Accepting a selection of the external peripheral device; displaying a communication information setting screen including a communication information input section for inputting the communication information including an IP address and a communication port number to be assigned to the external peripheral device, and a setting screen display section for displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data of the setting screen of the selected external peripheral device, and an operation button for externally outputting the communication information; receiving an IP address and a communication port number as the communication information and setting information related to setting work of the communication information in the external peripheral device; creating a communication information setting file that can be imported by the external peripheral device by writing the received communication information and setting work information into a communication information setting template that describes the communication information so that the external peripheral device can import the data; The communication information setting file is output to the outside by uploading the communication information to a storage device accessible by the external peripheral device via a network or by writing the communication information to a portable storage medium. The communication setting method according to claim 17.

19. A computer program that causes a computer of a molding machine to execute processing related to communication settings between the molding machine and external peripheral devices, The computer, displaying an image of the setting screen based on image data of a setting screen displayed on the external peripheral device when setting communication information relating to at least an IP address to be assigned to the external peripheral device in the external peripheral device; receiving the communication information; The received communication information is set as information relating to the data transmission destination. A computer program that executes a process.

20. The computer, acquiring image data of the setting screen for each of a plurality of types of external peripheral devices from an external device; storing the acquired plurality of image data; Accepting a selection of the external peripheral device; displaying a communication information setting screen including a communication information input section for inputting the communication information including an IP address and a communication port number to be assigned to the external peripheral device, and a setting screen display section for displaying an image of the setting screen based on the image data of the setting screen of the selected external peripheral device, and an operation button for externally outputting the communication information; receiving an IP address and a communication port number as the communication information and setting information related to setting work of the communication information in the external peripheral device; creating a communication information setting file that can be imported by the external peripheral device by writing the received communication information and setting work information into a communication information setting template that describes the communication information so that the external peripheral device can import the data; The communication information setting file is output to the outside by uploading the communication information to a storage device accessible by the external peripheral device via a network or by writing the communication information to a portable storage medium.

20. A computer program product according to claim 19, which causes a process to be performed.

Images