Production line construction device, production line construction method, and production line construction program

Abstract

To provide a configuration and an arrangement plan of a module adapted to an actual plant.SOLUTION: A production line construction device includes an acquisition part for acquiring production line construction information including definition information for defining a function, performance and interface requirements of a module in a modular plant and physical information including physical characteristics of the module and information on a delivery destination of the module, and a generation part for generating a configuration and arrangement plan of the module based on the acquired production line construction information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a production line construction device, a production line construction method, and a production line construction program. [Background technology]

[0002] In traditional plant design, each part of the process is typically custom designed and built as an integrated system, making plant design, construction, and expansion time-consuming and costly.

[0003] In conventional plant designs, production line construction systems in modular plants build production lines by combining multiple independent modules. These production line construction systems use MTP (Modular Type Package) technology to increase the flexibility and efficiency of the manufacturing process.

[0004] MTP technology supports the design and operation of modular plants. It provides MTP files with MTP information that defines the functions, performance, and interface requirements of specific process modules. Using this MTP information, it is possible to design module configuration and layout plans that integrate modules from different manufacturers and easily change the overall plant configuration.

[0005] In conventional MTP technology, process modules are defined at a logical level and their functions and process control requirements are specified. Process modules with specified functions and requirements are selected during the plant design phase. The selected process modules are then combined to form the overall process flow. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 06-348769 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-014309 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] However, traditional MTP technology focuses primarily on optimizing the logical connections and process flows that form the overall process flow, with the physical placement of modules and their interactions within the actual plant being secondary considerations.

[0008] Therefore, it is not possible to determine whether the theoretically constructed module configuration and layout plan for a production line can be adapted to the physical sections of an actual plant. Adaptability to the physical sections of an actual plant means, for example, that there is space for carrying in the equipment and that there are wires for carrying the equipment in and out.

[0009] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned situation, and provides a production line construction device, a production line construction method, and a production line construction program that can generate a modular plant that can be physically delivered to a destination. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The production line construction device for a modular plant of the present disclosure is a production line construction device having an acquisition unit that acquires production line construction information including definition information that defines the functions, performance, and interface requirements of modules in the modular plant, as well as physical information including physical characteristics of the modules and information on the destination of the modules, and a generation unit that generates a configuration and arrangement plan for the modules based on the acquired production line construction information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] The production line construction device for a modular plant according to the present disclosure can provide a configuration and arrangement plan for modules that is suitable for an actual plant. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining a production line construction system in a modular plant according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a production line construction system in a modular plant according to an embodiment; [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing information stored in a plant design DB. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a first example of the relationship between the constraints and the objective function and the output. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a second example of the relationship between the constraints and the objective function and the output. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating data exchange between an engineering tool unit, a line construction engine unit, and a plant design DB. [Figure 7] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the production line construction system in the modular plant according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for inputting condition information of the production line construction system in the modular plant according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration and layout plan of modules in a case where energy efficiency of a production line construction system in a modular plant according to an embodiment is minimized. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration and layout plan of modules in a case where production efficiency of a production line construction system in a modular plant according to an embodiment is maximized. [Figure 11] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In this specification and drawings, components having substantially the same functional configurations are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant description will be omitted.

[0014] First, a production line construction system A in a modular plant according to the present disclosure will be described. Fig. 1 is a diagram for explaining the production line construction system A in a modular plant according to an embodiment. The production line construction system A shown in Fig. 1 is an example of a production line construction device or computer that logically and physically combines modular plants to generate a plant of a physical size that can be delivered to a delivery destination.

[0015] Here, plant construction using a modular plant and its problems will be explained.

[0016] 1. Lack of physical information and chemical properties MTP files do not contain detailed process information such as the physical dimensions of modules, chemical properties, maximum output capacity, etc. This makes it difficult to determine whether the designed production line will fit into the actual plant space, whether there is enough space to place the equipment, and whether the necessary wiring and pipelines can be installed.

[0017] 2. Insufficient consideration of relocation Conventional MTP technology and plant design focuses on determining the optimal layout of modules when building new plants, but does not sufficiently consider the relocation or expansion of modules in existing plants, which poses a major problem for modern manufacturing industries that must quickly respond to market demand fluctuations and process updates.

[0018] 3. Reasons for adopting the mechanism / circuit The reasons for adopting the conventional MTP are to increase compatibility between process modules from different manufacturers and to increase flexibility in plant design, but while achieving these goals, the lack of details regarding the physical layout and implementation within the plant has resulted in many limitations in actual operation.

[0019] Therefore, the production line construction system A according to the embodiment acquires production line construction information including MTP information that defines the functions, performance, and interface requirements of modules in a modular plant, and physical information including physical characteristics of the modules and information on the destinations where the modules will be delivered.The production line construction system A then generates a configuration and layout plan for the modules based on the acquired production line construction information.

[0020] For example, as shown in FIG. 1, a production line construction system A outputs a configuration plan and layout plan C for a module m that meets the conditions from among n modules m-1 to mn, based on the MTP information of the module m, physical information including the physical properties and destination information of the module, condition information, production line process information, chemical property information, etc.

[0021] In this way, the production line construction system A can use not only MTP information but also physical information of the modules to perform simulations that take into account the entrance and space of the destination, making it possible to generate a modular plant that can be physically delivered to the destination.

[0022] (1. Composition) 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a production line construction system A in a modular plant according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the production line construction system A includes a server 2 that constructs a production line for a plant 4 connected to a network 1, and a client 3 that displays the production line created on the server 2.

[0023] While FIG. 2 shows a production line construction system A in the case of a server-client system, the production line construction system A may also be a production line construction device that is a standalone information processing device. In this case, the control unit of the information processing device in the production line construction device has a line construction engine unit 14 and an engineering tool unit 25, which will be described below. The memory unit of the information processing device has a plant design DB 15 and a 3D CAD DB 26, which will be described below. The information processing device also has a display unit 24 and a communication control unit, which will be described below. The production line construction device of the present disclosure includes the production line construction system A in a server-client system and a production line construction device that is a standalone information processing device.

[0024] The server 2 may also be used as SaaS (Software as a Service). In this case, the server 2 can apply the services of the present disclosure to users of plants other than the plant 4. Therefore, the production line construction system A of the present disclosure can construct production lines for plants other than the plant 4.

[0025] (1.1.Server2) The server 2 includes a communication control unit 11, a storage unit 12, and a control unit 13.

[0026] (Communication control unit 11) The communication control unit 11 controls communication with devices external to the server 2. For example, the communication control unit 11 outputs to the client 3 a proposal for the configuration and layout of modules of a production line in a modular plant, which proposal is generated by the line construction engine unit 14 of the server 2. The communication control unit 11 also receives condition information such as a production target transmitted from the client 3, and outputs it to the line construction engine unit 14 of the control unit 13.

[0027] (Storage unit 12) The storage unit 12 is a functional unit that stores various types of data. As an example, the storage unit 12 is realized by an internal, external, or auxiliary storage of the server 2. The storage unit 12 stores a plant design DB 15 that stores information about modules.

[0028] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing information stored in the plant design DB 15. The information stored in the plant design DB 15 includes information acquired from external information sources of the server 2 and information received from the client 3. As shown in Fig. 3, the plant design DB 15 is an integrated DB that stores condition information 31, MTP information 32, physical information 33, process information 34, chemical property information 35, production schedule management information 36, reservation management information 37, and logistics information 38.

[0029] The plant design DB 15 also includes information about compatibility and combinability between modules (not shown). By using such information, flexibility in module design can be increased.

[0030] The condition information 31 is condition information for generating a configuration and layout plan for modules of a modular plant. The condition information includes whether a logically constructed production line can be adapted to the physical section of the actual plant. Determining whether a logically constructed production line is adapted to the physical section of the actual plan includes, for example, determining whether the physical section of the actual plant has space for carrying in and out compatible equipment and whether there are conductors for carrying in and out.

[0031] The condition information 31 also includes information corresponding to the constraint conditions and objective functions described above. For example, the condition information 31 is information regarding constraint conditions, such as: 1. being able to transport and arrange modules at the target location, 2. taking into consideration supply chain and logistics constraints, 3. managing unit availability and schedules, 4. taking into consideration the efficient use of physical space, 5. being economically rational, and 6. taking into consideration whether the chemical properties of the production units can withstand. The condition information 31 is also information regarding objective functions, such as: 1. minimizing energy consumption, 2. maximizing production efficiency and minimizing downtime, 3. taking into consideration CO2 emissions and minimizing the environmental load, 4. minimizing reassembly work and saving labor, and 5. minimizing the cost of building the line.

[0032] This condition information 31 includes information acquired from an external information source of the server 2 and information received from the client 3. In addition, it may be stored in the plant design DB 15 in advance.

[0033] MTP information 32 is information that defines the functionality, performance, and interface requirements of the modules of a particular process.

[0034] The physical information 33 includes the physical characteristics of the module and information about the location where the module is to be installed, such as the size of the floor where the module is to be installed, and may also include the module's throughput, capacity, resource and material efficiency, energy efficiency, power consumption, time to service, uptime, equipment availability, mean time between failures, and service and equipment utilization.

[0035] The process information 34 is information that indicates the process of the proposed module configuration and layout plan for the modular plant. The process information 34 may also include information that indicates the maximum output capacity of the module. The chemical property information 35 is information that indicates the chemical properties of the module. The production schedule management information 36 is information that indicates the production schedule of the module. The reservation management information 37 is information that indicates the reservation status of the module. The logistics information 38 is information that relates to a series of processes, from the procurement of raw materials to the production of the product, sales to the end consumer, and even post-use collection and recycling.

[0036] (Control unit 13) The control unit 13 is a functional unit that performs overall control of the server 2. For example, the control unit 13 can be realized by a hardware processor. The control unit 13 includes a line construction engine unit 14.

[0037] The line construction engine 14 generates module configuration and layout plans, process flow plans, product production schedule plans, etc. based on the production line construction information. Specifically, the production line construction information includes condition information 31, module MTP information 32, physical information 33, process information 34, chemical property information 35, production schedule management information 36, reservation management information 37, and logistics information 38.

[0038] Here, the condition information 31 indicates the conditions for generating a modular plant configuration and layout plan. Logistics goes beyond the basic function of simply delivering goods to the right place at the right time; it is a strategic initiative aimed at achieving optimal material flow throughout the entire business. Logistics information 38 includes information on a series of processes, from the procurement of modules on the market, the movement of modules between plants, the procurement of raw materials, the production of products, sales to end consumers, and even the collection and recycling of modules after use. Modules are procured on the market, for example, by purchasing them from a shopping site. Module specifications are disclosed on the shopping site. The shopping site also discloses specifications such as the module's output capacity and temperature characteristics. The line construction engine 14 also receives 3D CAD physical information from the client 3's 3D CAD database 26.

[0039] The line construction engine unit 14 is an AI model or simulator that outputs module configuration and layout plans, process flow plans that match the condition information 31, and production schedule plans. Here, the 3D CAD physical information is 3D physical information of piping and the like stored in the 3D CAD DB 26 of the client 3. This 3D CAD physical information is sent to the line construction engine unit 14 by the engineering tool unit 25.

[0040] The constraints, objective function, algorithm process, and output of the line construction engine unit 14 are as follows:

[0041] (constraints) The constraints include, for example, the following constraints: 1. The modules can be transported and placed at the desired location. 2. Consider supply chain and logistics constraints 3. Managing unit availability and schedules 4. Consideration of efficient use of physical space 5. Economically rational 6. Consideration must be given to the chemical properties of the production unit.

[0042] (Objective function) The objective function is, for example, the following objective function: 1. Minimizing energy consumption 2. Maximize production efficiency and minimize downtime 3. Consideration of CO2 emissions and minimizing environmental impact 4. Minimizes reassembly work and saves labor. 5. The cost of building the line is kept to a minimum.

[0043] (Algorithmic process) The algorithm process is, for example, as follows: 1. Obtain module physical dimensions, chemical properties, and schedule management information from a database 2. Select the best combination of available modules 3. Automatically generate production line configuration plans and propose optimal process flows and layouts

[0044] (output) The output is as follows: 1. Proposed configuration of selected modules 2. Recommended process flow and production schedule 3. Optimal production line layout that takes into consideration space efficiency, environmental impact, and costs

[0045] For example, the condition information 31, module MTP information 32, physical information 33, process information 34, chemical property information 35, production schedule management information 36, reservation management information 37, and logistics information 38 contained in the production line configuration information are used in the algorithm processes of "2. Select the optimal combination from available modules" and "3. Automatically generate a production line configuration plan and propose the optimal process flow and layout."

[0046] That is, of the condition information 31, module MTP information 32, physical information 33, process information 34, chemical property information 35, production schedule management information 36, reservation management information 37, and logistics information 38 contained in the production line configuration information, the required information is used in the above-mentioned algorithm process (1. Obtain module physical dimensions, chemical properties, and schedule management information from the database, 2. Select the optimal combination from among the available modules, 3. Automatically generate a production line configuration plan and propose the optimal process flow and layout).

[0047] The condition information 31 is used when generating a configuration and layout plan for modules in a modular plant. For example, when selecting an optimal combination from available modules, the line construction engine unit 14 executes algorithm "2. Select an optimal combination from available modules" and uses information indicating the module configuration in the condition information 31 in this algorithm. Therefore, the production line construction system A of the embodiment can select an optimal combination of modules to be used that matches the condition information 31.

[0048] Furthermore, for example, when generating a module layout plan, conditions for generating a module layout plan for a modular plant are required. The line configuration engine unit 14 uses the layout plan in the condition information 31 when performing "3. Automatically generate a production line configuration plan and propose an optimal process flow and layout" in the algorithm. Therefore, the production line configuration system A of the embodiment can propose an optimal module layout that matches the condition information 31.

[0049] Furthermore, when generating a production line configuration plan, it is necessary to deliver modules to the site. The physical information 33 includes information on the destination of the modules. When generating a production line configuration plan, information on the destination of the modules is required. The line configuration engine unit 14 uses the information on the destination of the modules in the physical information 33 when performing "3. Automatically generate a production line configuration plan and propose an optimal process flow and layout" in the algorithm. By using the physical information 33, the production line configuration system A of the embodiment can generate a production line configuration plan that is compatible with the actual plant.

[0050] Furthermore, for example, to generate an optimal process flow, it is necessary to grasp process information 34, chemical property information 35, production schedule management information 36, reservation management information 37, and logistics information 38 of the plant modules. For example, the line construction engine unit 14 can generate a safe process flow by using chemical property information that defines, for example, non-flammability. Similarly, the production line construction system A can generate a process flow that will be completed within one week by using production schedule management information 36 that defines, for example, within one week; can generate a process flow using modules that can be used within the reservation period by using reservation management information 37 that defines, for example, a period from a certain date to a certain date; and can generate a process flow that takes into account the plant's delivery period by using logistics information 38 that defines, for example, two days as the plant's delivery period.

[0051] When executing algorithm "3. Automatically generate a production line configuration plan and propose an optimal process flow and layout," the line configuration engine unit 14 uses the process information 34, chemical property information 35, production schedule management information 36, reservation management information 37, and logistics information 38. The production line configuration system A of the embodiment can propose an optimal process flow suited to an actual plant by using the production process information 34, chemical property information 35, production schedule management information 36, reservation management information 37, and logistics information 38 included in the production line configuration information.

[0052] For example, by using the logistics information 38, the line construction engine unit 14 can know the period from ordering modules for the plant 4 to receiving them at the site. By prioritizing the selection of modules with a short period from ordering to receiving them at the site, the line construction engine unit 14 can generate a production line construction plan that can be quickly launched. The line construction engine unit 14 can also use the logistics information 38 in the constraints and objective functions. For example, when determining whether "logistics constraints should be considered" in the constraint "2. Supply chain and logistics constraints should be considered," the line construction engine unit 14 makes its decision by referring to information in the logistics information 38 regarding logistics constraints from the procurement of modules on the market to their installation at the plant site. Furthermore, when determining whether "5. Line construction costs should be minimized" in the objective function, the line construction engine unit 14 makes its decision by referring to the costs from the procurement of modules on the market to their installation at the plant site in the logistics information 38.

[0053] The line construction engine 14 can also construct a highly productive production line based on information indicating the maximum output capacity of each module included in the process information 34. In this case, the information indicating the maximum output capacity is used in processing related to the operation efficiency of the objective function and constraints. For example, if a production line is constructed with modules A, B, and C, and only module B has a very small maximum output capacity, the operation rate of the production line will peak at the maximum output capacity of module B. For example, when the constraint or objective function is set to "maximize operation efficiency," the line construction engine 14 constructs the production line based on information indicating the maximum output capacity of each module included in the process information 34 so that the difference in the maximum output capacity of each module is not too large. Therefore, by using the information indicating the maximum output capacity, the production line construction system A according to the embodiment does not construct an inefficient production line.

[0054] That is, the line construction engine unit 14 outputs a configuration and layout plan for the selected modules that satisfies the constraint conditions and the objective function (condition information). FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a first example of the relationship between the constraint conditions, the objective function, and the output. As shown in FIG. 4, for example, "1. Minimizing energy consumption" is input as the objective function, and "The modules can be transported and placed at the target location" is input as the constraint condition to the algorithm AR of the line construction engine unit 14. Then, the algorithm AR outputs "1. Configuration plan for the first selected module, 2. First process flow and first production schedule, and 3. First production line layout."

[0055] 5 is a diagram showing a second example of the relationship between the constraints and objective function and the output. As shown in FIG. 5, for example, "1. Minimizing energy consumption" is input as the objective function, and "Ability to transport and arrange modules at the target location" and "5. Economic rationality" are input as constraints to the algorithm AR of the production line configuration engine unit 14. Then, the algorithm AR outputs "1. Configuration plan for the second selected module, 2. Second process flow and first production schedule, and 3. Second production line arrangement."

[0056] That is, the algorithm AR produces different outputs depending on the constraints and objective functions that are input. Note that multiple objective functions can also be input.

[0057] (1.2.Client3) Returning to Fig. 2, the client 3 includes a communication control unit 21, a storage unit 22, a control unit 23, and a display unit 24.

[0058] (Communication control unit 21) The communication control unit 21 controls communication with devices external to the client 3. For example, the communication control unit 21 transmits condition information instructed by a user via the engineering tool unit 25 to the server 2. The communication control unit 21 also receives module placement plans and configurations transmitted from the server 2 and outputs them to the engineering tool unit 25.

[0059] (Storage unit 22) The storage unit 22 is a functional unit that stores various types of data. As an example, the storage unit 22 is realized by an internal or auxiliary storage of the client 3. The storage unit 22 stores a 3D CAD DB 26.

[0060] The 3DCAD DB 26 stores physical information such as 3DCAD piping that is used in combination with the module configuration and layout plan displayed by the engineering tool unit 25. This physical information such as 3DCAD piping is used when the engineering tool unit 25 displays the module configuration and layout plan in 3D.

[0061] (Control unit 23) The control unit 23 is a functional unit that performs overall control of the client 3. For example, the control unit 23 can be realized by a hardware processor. The control unit 23 includes an engineering tool unit 25.

[0062] The engineering tool unit 25 is a functional unit used when designing a modular plant. For example, the engineering tool unit 25 transmits condition information input by a user to the server 2 and receives module configuration and layout plans generated by the server 2. The engineering tool unit 25 then displays the received module configuration and layout plans on the display unit 24 using 3D CAD or the like.

[0063] (Display section 24) The display unit 24 is a functional unit that displays various types of information. As an example, the display unit 24 can be realized by a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, etc. The display unit 24 displays the configuration, arrangement, etc. of the module generated by the engineering tool unit 25.

[0064] (1.3.Plant 4) Plant 4 is a modular plant that is newly designed or modified. This plant 4 is a manufacturing plant used in fields such as chemicals, pharmaceuticals, food processing, and electronic component manufacturing. Production line construction system A can significantly improve the flexibility, scalability, and customizability of processes in manufacturing processes in these fields.

[0065] (1.4. Data exchange relationship) FIG. 6 is a diagram showing data exchange between the engineering tool unit 25, the line construction engine unit 14, and the plant design DB 15. As shown in FIG.

[0066] 6, the condition information 31 inputted by the engineering tool unit 25 is sent to the line construction engine unit 14. The condition information sent to the line construction engine unit 14 is stored in the plant design DB 15 as production line construction information.

[0067] In addition, the 3D CAD physical information stored in the 3D CAD DB 26 is sent from the client 3 to the line construction engine unit 14. In addition, the necessary production line construction information (condition information 31, MTP information 32, physical information 33, process information 34, chemical property information 35, production schedule management information 36, reservation management information 37, and logistics information 38) stored in the plant design DB 15 is sent to the line construction engine unit 14.

[0068] The line construction engine unit 14 generates a module configuration plan, layout plan, etc. based on the production line construction information and physical information of the 3D CAD, and sends the generated module configuration plan, layout plan, etc. to the engineering tool unit 25. The engineering tool unit 25 displays the module layout configuration plan, layout plan, etc. output from the line construction engine unit 14 on the display unit 24.

[0069] (2. Effect) Next, the operation of the production line construction system A in the modular plant according to the embodiment will be described.

[0070] 7 is a flowchart illustrating the operation of the production line construction system A in a modular plant according to the embodiment. An end user places an order for a product or a production item for a new construction line is decided (step S1). Next, when starting a new project or changing the production line, the user, a designer of the modular plant, uses the engineering tool unit 25 to input condition information 31 such as a production target (step S2).

[0071] 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for inputting condition information of the production line construction system A in the modular plant according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 8, a user of the production line construction system A selects the purpose of the production line to be constructed.

[0072] In the example in Figure 8, select at least one of the following objectives: 1. Minimize energy efficiency 2. Maximize production efficiency and minimize downtime 3. Consider CO2 emissions and minimize environmental impact 4. Minimize recombination work and save labor 5. Minimize costs required for line construction.

[0073] Returning to Fig. 7, the condition information 31 input to the engineering tool unit 25 and the 3D CAD physical information stored in the 3D CAD DB 26 are sent to the line construction engine unit 14 (step S3).

[0074] The line construction engine unit 14 acquires production line construction information (condition information 31, MTP information 32, physical information 33, process information 34, etc.) from the plant design DB 15 (step S4).

[0075] The order of steps S2 to S4 may be different. Furthermore, the line construction engine unit 14 may acquire necessary production line construction information from the plant design DB 15 in advance before the condition information 31 is input.

[0076] Next, the line construction engine unit 14 generates an optimal module configuration and layout plan, a process flow plan, a production schedule plan, etc. based on the production line construction information (condition information 31, MTP information 32, physical information 33, etc.) and the physical information of the 3D CAD (step S5).

[0077] Next, the line construction engine unit 14 outputs the generated module configuration and layout plan, etc. to the engineering tool unit 25 (step S6). The engineering tool unit 25 displays the module layout plan, etc. generated by the line construction engine unit 14 on the display unit 24 (step S7), and ends the process.

[0078] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a module configuration and layout plan for minimizing energy efficiency of a production line construction system A in a modular plant according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 9, the module configuration and layout plan, together with module configuration and layout plan C, clearly indicates that this is the case for "minimizing energy efficiency" (B). FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a module configuration and layout plan for maximizing production efficiency of a production line construction system A in a modular plant according to an embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the module configuration and layout plan, together with module configuration and layout plan C, clearly indicates that this is the case for "maximizing production efficiency" (B). By clearly indicating the purpose for which the module configuration and layout were generated in this way, the user can confirm the module configuration and layout according to the purpose.

[0079] (3. Effects) As described above, conventional production line construction systems using MTP technology use MTP information to construct the production line system, which has the following problems. The production line construction system A according to the embodiment can improve these problems.

[0080] First, conventional production line construction systems have difficulty determining whether the designed production line fits into the actual plant space, whether there is enough space to place the equipment, whether the necessary wiring and pipelines can be installed, etc. In other words, conventional production lines do not take into consideration the actual plant.

[0081] Furthermore, while conventional production line construction systems focus on determining the optimal layout of modules when building new plants, they do not sufficiently consider the relocation or expansion of modules in existing plants. This poses a major problem for modern manufacturing industries, which must quickly respond to fluctuations in market demand and process updates. In other words, conventional MTP technology and plant designs do not sufficiently consider module relocation.

[0082] The reason for adopting the conventional MTP technology was to increase compatibility between process modules from different manufacturers and flexibility in plant design. However, while the conventional MTP technology achieves these goals, it has many limitations in actual operation.

[0083] The production line construction system A according to the embodiment utilizes MTP technology to modularize processes from product manufacturing to packaging, enabling easy recombination of these modules. The production line construction system A also uses process information 34, such as module physical information 33, chemical properties, and maximum transport capacity, which are not stored in the MTP file, to generate physical configuration and layout plans for modules that could not be achieved using conventional MTP files alone. In this way, the production line construction system A can optimize the physical layout of modules in the production line and design processes based on chemical properties. Therefore, the production line construction system A can maximize production efficiency and quickly and efficiently modify and expand the production line. In other words, the production line construction system A can achieve more sophisticated designs.

[0084] By integrating data from external information sources, production line construction system A significantly improves the flexibility of plant design and operation. In particular, production line construction system A can quickly respond to changing market demands and evolution of production technology. In other words, production line construction system A can improve flexibility and adaptability.

[0085] By integrating production schedule management information 36 and reservation management information 37, production line construction system A can optimize the availability of the production line and minimize downtime. This improves the overall operational efficiency of the plant. In other words, production line construction system A can improve the overall operational efficiency of the plant.

[0086] In this way, production line construction system A manages not only the basic information in the MTP file, but also physical information 33, chemical properties, and information required for unit management in an integrated manner. Then, it builds and proposes an optimal production line based on the integratedly managed information. This allows production line construction system A to open up new possibilities for the design and operation of modular plants.

[0087] Furthermore, the production line construction system A determines whether the logically constructed production line can be adapted to the physical sections of the actual plant by determining constraint information by separately adding process information 34 and physical information 33. Furthermore, the production line construction system A can propose the optimal unit configuration and arrangement using 3D CAD or the like to achieve the shortest pipeline design.

[0088] The production line construction system A can be applied to all manufacturing processes, from raw material processing to packaging of the final product. The production line construction system A is also flexible enough to be applied to auxiliary processes such as quality control and waste disposal.

[0089] Furthermore, production line construction system A can be applied to the manufacture of various products, such as the synthesis of chemicals, the production of pharmaceuticals, food processing, and the assembly of electronic components. Production line construction system A can also be applied to environmental technologies and recycling processes, contributing to the construction of sustainable manufacturing processes.

[0090] Furthermore, the production line construction system A can provide layout plans that allow modules to be moved functionally and physically by having the line construction engine unit 14 combine the functional information of the modules (MTP information 32 in the MTP file) with the physical information 33 of the modules stored in the plant design DB 15 and the physical information of the 3D CAD stored in the 3D CAD DB 26.

[0091] The production line construction system A of the embodiment can replace conventional fixed production lines and ensure productivity and flexibility in the manufacturing industry. In particular, in the modern manufacturing industry where short-term product changes and small-lot production are required, the production line construction system A of a modular plant offers great advantages.

[0092] Furthermore, when the server 2 of the production line construction system A of the embodiment is used as SaaS, the server 2 can output configuration plans for modules selected by other users and users with multiple plants, recommended process flows and production schedules, and optimal production line layouts that take into consideration space efficiency, environmental impact, and costs.

[0093] Therefore, when server 2 of the production line construction system A of the embodiment is used as SaaS, if a user with multiple plants cannot complete the construction of the production line using only the inventory of plant A, he or she can move inventory of plant B to complete the construction of the production line of plant A.

[0094] (4. Hardware) Next, a description will be given of an example of the hardware configuration of the server 2. Fig. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration.

[0095] 11, the server 2 includes a communication device 100a, an HDD 100b, a memory 100c, and a processor 100d. The components shown in FIG. 11 are interconnected by a bus or the like.

[0096] The communication device 100a is a network interface card or the like, and communicates with external devices and equipment. The HDD 100b stores programs and data that operate the functions shown in FIG.

[0097] The processor 100d reads out a program that executes the same processes as the respective processing units of the server 2 shown in Fig. 2 from the HDD 100b etc. and loads it into the memory 100c, thereby operating a process that executes the respective functions described in Fig. 2 etc. For example, this process executes the same functions as the respective processing units of the server 2. Specifically, the processor 100d reads out a program having the same functions as the line construction engine unit 14 from the HDD 100b etc. Then, the processor 100d executes a process that executes the same processes as the line construction engine unit 14.

[0098] In this way, the server 2 operates as an information processing device that executes an information processing method by reading and executing a program. The server 2 can also realize functions similar to those of the above-described embodiment by reading the program from a recording medium using a medium reading device and executing the read program. Note that the program in these other embodiments is not limited to being executed by the server 2. For example, the present invention can be similarly applied to cases where another computer or server executes the program, or where these execute the program in cooperation with each other.

[0099] This program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. In addition, this program can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, a magneto-optical disk (MO), or a digital versatile disk (DVD), and can be executed by being read from the recording medium by a computer.

[0100] The hardware configuration of the client 3 is the same as the hardware configuration of the server 2 in FIG. 11, if the hardware configuration of the display unit 24 is omitted.

[0101] In this case, the processor 100d reads out a program that executes the same processes as the respective processing units of the client 3 shown in FIG. 2 from the HDD 100b or the like and loads it into the memory 100c, thereby operating a process that executes the respective functions described in FIG. 2 or the like. For example, this process executes the same functions as the respective processing units of the client 3. Specifically, the processor 100d reads out a program having the same functions as the engineering tool unit 25 from the HDD 100b or the like. Then, the processor 100d executes a process that executes the same processes as the engineering tool unit 25.

[0102] Some examples of combinations of the disclosed technical features are set out below.

[0103] (1) an acquisition unit that acquires production line configuration information including definition information that defines the functions, performance, and interface requirements of modules in a modular plant, and physical information including physical characteristics of the modules and information on the destination of delivery of the modules; a generation unit that generates a configuration and layout plan for the modules based on the acquired production line configuration information; A production line construction device having the above components.

[0104] (2) the production line construction information includes condition information for generating a configuration and layout plan of the modular plant; the generation unit generates the module configuration and placement plan so as to satisfy the condition information. The production line construction device according to (1).

[0105] (3) the production line construction information includes at least one of process information of the modular plant, chemical property information of the module, production management schedule information indicating a production schedule of the module, reservation management information of the module, and logistics information of the module; the production department generates a configuration and arrangement plan for the modules according to the type of the production line configuration information; A production line construction device according to (1) or (2).

[0106] (4) The generation unit generating a process flow plan and a product production schedule plan that match the acquired condition information based on the acquired production line configuration information; (2) A production line construction device according to the present invention.

[0107] (5) a display unit that displays the generated configuration and arrangement plan of the modules, The production line construction device according to any one of (1) to (4).

[0108] (6) The display unit displays the module configuration and layout plan in 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design). (5) A production line construction device according to (5).

[0109] (7) The physical information is at least one of the module's throughput, capacity, resource and material efficiency, energy efficiency, power consumption, time to service, uptime, equipment availability, mean time between failures, and service and equipment utilization; The production line construction device according to any one of (1) to (6).

[0110] (8) The generation unit generating a configuration and arrangement plan of the modules that fits into the physical space of the actual plant; The production line construction device according to any one of (1) to (7).

[0111] (9) The generation unit generates a configuration and arrangement plan of the module based on physical information of a 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) of the plant. The production line construction device according to any one of (1) to (8).

[0112] (10) The computer Acquire production line configuration information including definition information defining the functions, performance and interface requirements of modules in a modular plant and physical information including physical characteristics of the modules and information on the destination of delivery of the modules; generating a configuration and layout plan for the modules based on the acquired production line configuration information; How to build a production line.

[0113] (11) On the computer, Acquire production line configuration information including definition information defining the functions, performance and interface requirements of modules in a modular plant and physical information including physical characteristics of the modules and information on the destination of delivery of the modules; generating a configuration and layout plan for the modules based on the acquired production line configuration information; A production line construction program that executes processing. [Explanation of symbols]

[0114] A Production line construction system m, m-1 to mn modules C Module configuration and layout plan AR algorithm 1 Network 2 Server 3 Client 4 Plant 11, 21 Communication control unit 12, 22 Storage section 13, 23 Control section 14 Line Construction Engine Department 15 Plant Design DB 24 Display 25 Engineering Tools Department 26 3D CAD databases 31 Condition Information 32 MTP information 33 Physical information 34 Process Information 35 Chemical Properties Information 36 Production schedule management information 37 Reservation Management Information 38 Logistics Information

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires production line configuration information including definition information that defines the functions, performance, and interface requirements of modules in a modular plant, and physical information including physical characteristics of the modules and information on the destination of delivery of the modules; a generation unit that generates a configuration and layout plan for the modules based on the acquired production line configuration information; A production line construction device having the above components.

2. the production line construction information includes condition information for generating a configuration and layout plan of the modular plant; the generation unit generates the module configuration and placement plan so as to satisfy the condition information. The production line construction device according to claim 1.

3. the production line construction information includes at least one of process information of the modular plant, chemical property information of the module, production management schedule information indicating a production schedule of the module, reservation management information of the module, and logistics information of the module; the generation unit generates a configuration and arrangement plan of the modules according to the type of the production line configuration information. The production line construction device according to claim 1.

4. The generation unit generating a process flow plan and a product production schedule plan that match the acquired condition information based on the acquired production line configuration information; The production line construction device according to claim 2.

5. a display unit that displays the generated configuration and arrangement plan of the modules, The production line construction device according to claim 1.

6. The display unit displays the configuration and layout plan of the module in 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design). The production line construction device according to claim 5.

7. The physical information is at least one of the module's throughput, capacity, resource and material efficiency, energy efficiency, power consumption, time to service, uptime, equipment availability, mean time between failures, and service and equipment utilization; The production line construction device according to claim 1.

8. The generation unit generating a configuration and arrangement plan of the modules that fits into the physical space of the actual plant; The production line construction device according to claim 1.

9. The generation unit generates a configuration and arrangement plan of the module based on physical information of 3D CAD (Computer Aided Design) of the plant. The production line construction device according to claim 1.

10. The computer Acquire production line configuration information including definition information defining the functions, performance and interface requirements of modules in a modular plant and physical information including physical characteristics of the modules and information on the destination of the modules; generating a configuration and layout plan for the modules based on the acquired production line configuration information; How to build a production line.

11. On the computer, Acquire production line configuration information including definition information defining the functions, performance and interface requirements of modules in a modular plant and physical information including physical characteristics of the modules and information on the destination of the modules; generating a configuration and layout plan for the modules based on the acquired production line configuration information; A production line construction program that executes processing.

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