Management system, management method, and management program
The management system efficiently allocates jobs to processing cells by considering their capabilities, improving job execution efficiency and reducing operator dependency.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- JP2024118699
- Authority / Receiving Office
- JP · JP
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-07-24
- Publication Date
- 2026-02-05
AI Technical Summary
Existing scheduling devices do not consider the capabilities of processing machines when allocating jobs, leading to inefficient job execution.
A management system that includes a management device and processing cells, capable of identifying and allocating jobs to processing cells based on their capabilities, using workpiece and processing cell information to determine appropriate execution.
Enables efficient allocation of processing orders to processing cells, reducing the need for operator knowledge and personalization, and optimizing job execution.
Smart Images

Figure 2026017748000001_ABST
Abstract
Description
[Technical Field]
[0001] The present disclosure relates to a management system, a management method, and a management program. [Background technology]
[0002] Japanese Patent No. 6929484 (Patent Document 1) discloses "a scheduling device that creates schedule data for jobs in machining equipment" (see paragraph
[0001] ). The scheduling device "calculates when maintenance is required based on the predicted lifespan and maintenance timing, and calculates when to stop the processing machine based on the schedule data and the required maintenance timing" (see paragraph
[0103] ). In this way, the scheduling device prevents maintenance from being performed while the processing machine is executing a job, and shortens the total execution time of multiple jobs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]
[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6929484 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]
[0004] The scheduling device disclosed in Patent Document 1 creates schedule data for one or more processing machines (see paragraph
[0029] ). The scheduling device creates schedule data so that jobs are executed in order, starting with the job with the nearest due date (see paragraph
[0027] ). However, the scheduling device does not particularly consider what jobs the processing machines under its management can execute.
[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of one aspect is to provide a technology that can appropriately allocate processing orders to processing cells to be managed. [Means for solving the problem]
[0006] In one example of the present disclosure, a management system for generating a processing order for a workpiece is provided. The management system includes a management device and a plurality of processing cells capable of communicating with the management device. The management device executes the following processes: acquiring workpiece information that associates a target job indicating a processing step for the workpiece with each workpiece identifier; acquiring processing cell information that associates executable jobs with each processing cell identifier; when receiving an input of an identifier of a workpiece to be processed, identifying a processing cell that can execute the target job associated with the identifier based on the workpiece information and the processing cell information; and transmitting a processing order to the identified processing cell to instruct the processing of the workpiece to be processed.
[0007] In one example of the present disclosure, each of the plurality of processing cells is provided with a reading device for reading an identification code of a workpiece. Based on the reading of the identification code by the reading device provided in the processing cell, each of the plurality of processing cells executes a process of transmitting an identifier indicated by the identification code to the management device as an identifier of the workpiece to be processed. The process of identifying includes a process of determining whether the processing cell is capable of executing the job to be executed. The process of transmitting includes a process of transmitting the processing order to the processing cell when it is determined that the processing cell is capable of executing the job to be executed.
[0008] In one example of the present disclosure, the management device further performs a process of sending a notification to the own cell indicating that the own cell is unable to process the workpiece to be processed when it is determined that the own cell is unable to execute the job to be executed.
[0009] In one example of the present disclosure, when it is determined that the own cell is unable to execute the job to be executed, the management device further performs a process of identifying other processing cells that can execute the job to be executed based on the work information and the processing cell information, and a process of sending a notification to the own cell indicating the identifier of the other processing cell.
[0010] In one example of the present disclosure, the transmitting process performed by the own cell further transmits an identifier of the own cell to the management device.
[0011] In one example of the present disclosure, the management system further includes a self-propelled transport device and a work station provided with a reading device for reading an identification code. The reading device transmits an identifier indicated by the identification code to the management device as an identifier of the workpiece to be machined. The management device further executes a process of transmitting a transport order to the transport device for transporting the workpiece to be machined from the work station to the executable processing cell.
[0012] In another example of the present disclosure, a management method for determining an allocation destination of a processing order for a workpiece from among a plurality of processing cells is provided. The management method includes the steps of: acquiring workpiece information in which a job to be executed, which indicates a processing step of the workpiece, is associated with each workpiece identifier; acquiring processing cell information in which executable jobs are associated with each processing cell identifier; when an identifier of a workpiece to be processed is received, identifying a processing cell capable of executing the job to be executed associated with the identifier based on the workpiece information and the processing cell information; and transmitting a processing order to the identified processing cell to instruct the processing of the workpiece to be processed.
[0013] In another example of the present disclosure, a management program is provided for determining an allocation destination of a processing order for a workpiece from among multiple processing cells. The management program causes a computer to execute the following processes: acquire workpiece information associating a job to be executed, which indicates a processing step of the workpiece, with each workpiece identifier; acquire processing cell information associating executable jobs with each processing cell identifier; when receiving an input of an identifier of a workpiece to be processed, identify a processing cell that can execute the job to be executed associated with the identifier based on the workpiece information and the processing cell information; and send a processing order to the identified processing cell to instruct the processing of the workpiece to be processed.
[0014] The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]
[0015] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a device configuration of a management system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of an apparatus configuration of a processing cell. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data flow between an information processing device, a management device, and a processing cell. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of work information. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of processing cell information. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a functional configuration of a management apparatus. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of production plan information. [Figure 8] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a processing schedule generated by a schedule generating unit. [Figure 9] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of job definition information. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device. [Figure 11]It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the management device. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the user terminal. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the management system. [Figure 14] It is a diagram for explaining a method of registering a processing order using a reading device. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing an example of the work performed by an operator. [Figure 16] It is a diagram for explaining an example of the processing when an operator transports a workpiece to be processed to an incorrect processing cell. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the management system. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing the appearance of the transport device. [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the transport device. [Figure 20] It is a diagram for explaining a method of registering a processing order from a work station. <I
Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention
[0016] Hereinafter, each embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. Note that each embodiment and each modification described below may be selectively combined as appropriate.
[0017] <A. Management System 5> First, referring to FIG. 1, the device configuration of the management system 5 will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the management system 5.
[0018] As shown in FIG. 1, the management system 5 includes an information processing device 10, a management device 100, a processing cell 200, and a user terminal 300.
[0019] The information processing device 10 is, for example, a notebook or desktop PC (Personal Computer), a tablet terminal, or any other computer equipped with a communication function.
[0020] In the example of FIG. 1, one information processing device 10 is shown, but the number of information processing devices 10 constituting the management system 5 may be two or more.
[0021] The management device 100 is configured to be able to communicate with the information processing device 10 through the network NW1. The management device 100 is, for example, a notebook or desktop PC, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a wearable terminal, or any other computer with a communication function.
[0022] The management device 100 is configured to be able to communicate with the processing cell 200 through a network NW2. The network NW2 may be a network different from the network NW1, or may be the same network as the network NW1.
[0023] The management device 100 is, for example, a notebook or desktop PC, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a wearable terminal, or any other computer with a communication function.
[0024] In the example of FIG. 1, one management device 100 is shown, but the number of management devices 100 that make up the management system 5 may be two or more.
[0025] The processing cell 200 is configured to be able to communicate with the management device 100 through a network NW2. The network NW2 may be a network different from the network NW1, or may be the same network as the network NW1.
[0026] In addition, although the example of FIG. 1 shows three processing cells 200A to 200C, the number of processing cells 200 constituting the management system 5 may be one, or two or more.
[0027] Hereinafter, when the processing cells 200A to 200C are not particularly distinguished, the processing cells 200A to 200C are also referred to as the processing cell 200.
[0028] The processing cell 200 is a system having a workpiece processing function (i.e., a processing system). The devices constituting the processing cell 200 are not particularly limited. In the example of FIG. 1, the processing cells 200A and 200B include a controller, a machine tool, a robot, and a cleaning machine. The processing cell 200C includes a machine tool.
[0029] The controllers provided in the processing cells 200A and 200B control the devices existing under the machine tool, the robot, the cleaning machine, etc. The controller periodically sends the status of each device existing under it to the management device 100. Specific examples of the processing cell 200 will be described later.
[0030] The user terminal 300 is, for example, a notebook or desktop PC, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a wearable terminal, or other computer having a communication function.
[0031] The number of user terminals 300 constituting the management system 5 may be one or plural. The user terminal 300 is used, for example, according to the number of administrators and workers.
[0032] The user terminal 300 is configured to be communicable with the management device 100 and the processing cell 200 through the network NW2. As an example, an operator can access the management device 100 via the user terminal 300 and check the progress of processing in the processing cell 200.
[0033] <B. Processing Cell 200> Next, referring to FIG. 2, an example of the device configuration of the processing cell 200 shown in FIG. 1 described above will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the processing cell 200.
[0034] As shown in FIG. 2, processing cell 200 includes one or more storage compartments 220 , one or more transport devices 230 , one or more machine tools 240 , and one or more work stations 250 .
[0035] The storage unit 220 is one of the destinations to which the transport device 230 transports the pallet PT, and is a place for storing the pallet PT. A pallet PT is a platform on which a workpiece to be machined is fixed. The storage unit 220 can store multiple pallets PT. The storage unit 220 stores empty pallets PT before a workpiece is attached, pallets PT on which a workpiece before machining is attached, pallets PT on which a workpiece that is in the middle of machining is attached, and pallets PT on which a workpiece that has completed machining is attached.
[0036] The transport device 230 transports a specified pallet PT to a specified location. More specifically, the transport device 230 includes a rail 232 and a dolly 234. The dolly 234 has a fork unit 236 configured to be drivable in a direction perpendicular to the rail 232 (i.e., a direction perpendicular to the traveling direction of the dolly 234). The dolly 234 is configured to be movable along the rail 232 by a drive mechanism such as a servo motor. The dolly 234 moves along the rail 232 to the position of the pallet PT to be transported, and uses the fork unit 236 to place the pallet PT to be transported onto the dolly 234. Thereafter, the dolly 234 moves along the rail 232 to a specified destination, and uses the fork unit 236 to carry the pallet PT to be transported into the destination.
[0037] 2 shows the transfer device 230 moving on rails 232, but the example of the transfer device 230 is not limited to this. As an example, the transfer device 230 may be a Cartesian robot (autoloader) driven on two or three axes, a multi-joint robot driven on four to seven axes, or a self-propelled robot.
[0038] The machine tool 240 is one of the destinations to which the pallet PT is transported by the transport device 230. The machine tool 240 machines the workpiece attached to the transported pallet PT according to a pre-designed machining program. Once the machining of the workpiece is complete, the pallet PT in the machine tool 240 is transported by the transport device 230 to the storage unit 220 or the work station 250.
[0039] In addition, although the example in FIG. 2 shows an example in which the processing cell 200 is configured with one machine tool 240, the processing cell 200 may be configured with a plurality of machine tools 240.
[0040] The work station 250 is one of the destinations to which the pallet PT is transported by the transport device 230. At the work station 250, workers perform various operations on the pallet PT that has been carried in so as not to stop processing in the processing cell 200.
[0041] As one example, a worker attaches a workpiece to be machined to a pallet PT that has been brought in at the work station 250. As another example, the worker changes the attachment position of the workpiece on the pallet PT, or removes a workpiece from the pallet PT after machining has been completed. As yet another example, when the worker completes work on the pallet PT, the worker performs an operation on a terminal (not shown) in the work station 250 to indicate that the work is complete.
[0042] <C.シーケンスフロー> Next, a sequence flow when a processing schedule is registered in the management system 5 will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 5. Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of a data flow between the above-mentioned information processing device 10, the above-mentioned management device 100, and the above-mentioned processing cells 200A and 200B.
[0043] In step S110, the manager inputs a production plan for the workpieces via the information processing device 10. The production plan includes, for example, the identifier of the workpiece to be produced and the number of workpieces to be produced. As an example, it is assumed that the information processing device 10 receives a production plan PS1 for one workpiece with identifier "001." The information processing device 10 transmits the production plan PS1 input by the manager to the information processing device 10.
[0044] Next, in step S112, the management device 100 acquires work information that associates jobs indicating workpiece machining processes with each workpiece identifier. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing workpiece information 124, which is an example of the workpiece information.
[0045] Requirements for producing various product works are defined in the work information 124. As an example, the work information 124 associates a work identifier 124A with job information 124B.
[0046] The work identifier 124A is information for distinguishing the type of work. The identifier 124A is defined, for example, by an ID (Identification) or a work name. In the example of Fig. 4, the identifier 124A is defined by a work ID.
[0047] The job information 124B is information for identifying a job. A job defines the machining process for producing the associated workpiece in the machining cell 200. As an example, the machining process is defined by the machining program to be executed, the execution order of the machining program, the transport order of the workpiece within the machining cell 200, etc. In addition, the machining process may include operations incidental to machining, such as a cleaning process and a measurement process.
[0048] In the example of Fig. 4, the work information 124 indicates that execution of job "A" is required to produce one work "001." The work information 124 also indicates that execution of job "B" is required to produce one work "002." Note that the number of job IDs associated with one work ID does not have to be one, and may be multiple.
[0049] 3 again, in step S114, the management device 100 acquires processing cell information. Fig. 5 is a diagram showing processing cell information 126, which is an example of the processing cell information.
[0050] The processing cell information 126 associates executable jobs with each identifier of the processing cell 200. As an example, the processing cell information 126 associates an identifier 126A of the processing cell 200 with job information 126B.
[0051] The identifier 126A is information for distinguishing the processing cell 200 in the management system 5. The identifier 126A is defined by, for example, a cell ID or a cell name. In the example of Fig. 5, the identifier 126A is defined by a cell ID.
[0052] The job information 126B is information corresponding to the job information 124B shown in Fig. 4. As shown in Fig. 5, the job information 126B is associated with the identifier 126A of the processing cell 200, so that the management device 100 can recognize the jobs that each of the processing cells 200 can execute.
[0053] The job information 126B can be registered by any method. As an example, a worker inputs a job in the processing cell 200. The processing cell 200 to which the job has been input transmits the identifier of its own cell and the input job to the management device 100. The management device 100 then registers the combination of the identifier and the job in the job information 126B. The management device 100 can recognize the jobs registered in the processing cell 200 in real time by sequentially communicating with the processing cell 200.
[0054] Referring again to FIG. 3, in step S120, the management device 100 identifies a machining cell capable of executing a target job associated with the identifier of the workpiece to be machined, based on the workpiece information 124 acquired in step S112 and the machining cell information 126 acquired in step S114. In this example, in step S110, a production plan PS1 for producing one workpiece "001" is received. In this case, the management device 100 refers to the workpiece information 124 shown in FIG. 4 to identify the job "A" associated with the workpiece "001" as the target job. Next, the management device 100 refers to the machining cell information 126 shown in FIG. 5 to search for a machining cell 200 capable of executing the target job "A". As a result, the machining cell 200A capable of executing the target job "A" is identified.
[0055] Next, in step S122, the management device 100 transmits a processing order to instruct the processing cell 200A, which can execute the job "A" to be executed, to process the workpiece "001" to be processed. At this time, the management device 100 does not transmit the processing order to the processing cell 200B, which cannot execute the job "A" to be executed.
[0056] Next, in step S130, the processing cell 200A saves the processing order received from the management device 100. The destination for saving the processing order is arbitrary. As an example, the processing order is saved in a storage device within the processing cell 200A. Then, the processing cell 200A executes the job "A" to be executed when the processing start time specified in the processing order arrives.
[0057] As described above, the management device 100 recognizes jobs that can be executed by each of the processing cells 200 under management. When the management device 100 receives input of a production plan, it assigns processing orders to processing cells 200 in which jobs for processing workpieces to be processed are registered. This allows the management system 5 to appropriately assign processing orders to the processing cells 200 under management.
[0058] In addition, when registering a processing order, the administrator or operator does not need to know what jobs each of the processing cells 200 can execute. As a result, even an operator with little knowledge can register a processing order, and the personalization of work can be eliminated.
[0059] In the above description, an example where the work "001" can be processed only in the processing cell 200A has been described. However, when the work "001" can be processed in a plurality of processing cells, the management device 100 determines the assignment destination of the processing order according to a predetermined rule. As an example, the management device 100 determines the assignment destination of the processing order so that the work to be processed can be efficiently produced. The processing order is transmitted to, for example, the processing cell 200 that can start processing first.
[0060] <D. Functional Configuration of Management Device 100> Next, the functional configuration of the management device 100 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 to 9. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management device 100.
[0061] As shown in FIG. 6, the management device 100 includes a schedule generation unit 152 and an output unit 160 as functional configurations. These configurations will be described in order below.
[0062] In the example of FIG. 6, an example where the schedule generation unit 152 and the output unit 160 are implemented in the management device 100 is shown. However, at least one of the schedule generation unit 152 and the output unit 160 may be implemented in another device.
[0063] (D1. Schedule Generation Unit 152) First, the function of the schedule generation unit 152 shown in FIG. 6 will be described.
[0064] The schedule generation unit 152 generates the machining schedules SCA and SCB shown in FIG. 8 based on the production plan information 123 shown in FIG. 7, the above-mentioned work information 124 (see FIG. 4), and the above-mentioned machining cell information 126 (see FIG. 5).
[0065] 7 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the production plan information 123. The production plan information 123 is registered by an administrator in, for example, the above-mentioned information processing device 10 or the above-mentioned management device 100. The information registered by the administrator includes, for example, the type of workpiece to be processed and the quantity of the workpiece to be processed.
[0066] 7, a production plan PS1 for two workpieces "001" and a production plan PS2 for two workpieces "002" are registered as production plan information 123. The production plan PS1 and the production plan PS2 may be registered at the same time or at different times.
[0067] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the processing schedules SCA and SCB generated by the schedule generating unit 152.
[0068] The machining schedules SCA and SCB are generated based on the production plans PS1 and PS2 (see FIG. 7). More specifically, first, the schedule generation unit 152 refers to the work information 124 to identify a job "A" that must be executed to produce the work "001" defined in the production plan PS1. Next, the schedule generation unit 152 refers to the machining cell information 126 to determine the machining cell 200A that can execute the identified job "A" as the machining destination.
[0069] Similarly, the schedule generating unit 152 refers to the workpiece information 124 to identify the job "B" that must be executed to produce the workpiece "002" defined in the production plan PS2. Next, the schedule generating unit 152 refers to the processing cell information 126 to determine the processing cell 200B that can execute the identified job "B" as the processing destination.
[0070] Thereafter, the schedule generating unit 152 generates the processing schedules SCA and SCB so that the two workpieces "001" and the two workpieces "002" can be efficiently produced at the processing destination.
[0071] 8, the machining schedule SCA includes time periods TA1 to TA6. Time periods TA1, TA3, TA4, and TA6 indicate time periods during which workers are scheduled to work in the machining cell 200A. Time periods TA2 and TA5 indicate time periods during which machining is scheduled by the machining cell 200A.
[0072] More specifically, time period TA1 indicates the time period during which the worker plans to mount the first workpiece "001" on the pallet PT. Time period TA2 indicates the time period during which the processing cell 200A plans to process the first workpiece "001". Time period TA3 indicates the time period during which the worker plans to remove the first workpiece "001" from the pallet PT. Time period TA4 indicates the time period during which the worker plans to mount the second workpiece "001" on the pallet PT. Time period TA5 indicates the time period during which the processing cell 200A plans to process the second workpiece "001". Time period TA6 indicates the time period during which the worker plans to remove the second workpiece "001" from the pallet PT.
[0073] The machining schedule SCB also includes time periods TB1 to TB6. Time periods TB1, TB3, TB4, and TB6 indicate work time periods for workers in the machining cell 200B. Time periods TB2 and TB5 indicate time periods during which machining is scheduled to be performed by the machining cell 200B.
[0074] More specifically, time period TB1 indicates the time period during which the worker plans to load the first workpiece "002" onto the pallet PT. Time period TB2 indicates the time period during which the processing cell 200B plans to machine the first workpiece "002". Time period TB3 indicates the time period during which the worker plans to remove the first workpiece "002" from the pallet PT. Time period TB4 indicates the time period during which the worker plans to load the second workpiece "002" onto the pallet PT. Time period TB5 indicates the time period during which the processing cell 200B plans to machine the second workpiece "002". Time period TB6 indicates the time period during which the worker plans to remove the second workpiece "002" from the pallet PT.
[0075] The processing time periods in the processing cells 200A and 200B and the working time periods of the workers in the processing cells 200A and 200B are specified based on the job definition information 128 shown in FIG. 9, for example.
[0076] 9 is a diagram showing an example of job definition information 128. Job definition information 128 associates a job identifier 128A with a job group 128B. Job group 128B includes, for example, machining program information 128B1, machining time information 128B2, tool information 128B3, mounting time information 128B4, and removal time information 128B5.
[0077] The machining program information 128B1 defines a machining program to be executed when machining a workpiece. The defined machining program may be one or more. The method for generating the machining program is arbitrary. As an example, some machining cells 200 have a function that automatically generates a machining program by having an operator answer questions in an interactive format. The machining program is generated, for example, by this function. Alternatively, the machining program may be designed by an operator writing program code.
[0078] The processing time information 128B2 specifies the time required to process the workpiece. The processing time is input in advance by the worker, for example. Alternatively, the processing time may be calculated from past processing results of the workpiece.
[0079] The tool information 128B3 specifies the type of tool used to machine the workpiece. The specified tool may be one or more. The type of tool is specified by an identifier such as a tool name or ID. The type of tool may be input in advance by the operator or may be extracted from a description in the machining program.
[0080] The mounting time information 128B4 specifies the time required to mount a workpiece on a pallet. This mounting time may be input in advance by the worker, for example. Alternatively, this mounting time may be calculated from the past performance data required to mount a workpiece on a pallet.
[0081] The removal time information 128B5 specifies the time required to remove a machined workpiece from a pallet. The removal time may be input in advance by the worker, for example. Alternatively, the mounting time may be calculated from past performance data required to mount and remove a workpiece from a pallet.
[0082] (D2. Output section 160) Next, referring again to FIG. 8, the function of the output section 160 shown in FIG. 6 will be described.
[0083] The output unit 160 outputs the processing schedules SCA and SCB generated by the schedule generating unit 152 in various forms.
[0084] As an example, the output unit 160 outputs the generated machining schedules SCA and SCB in a screen format. The screen output destination may be a display of the information processing device 10, a display of the management device 100, a display of the machining cell 200, or a display of the user terminal 300.
[0085] As another example, the output unit 160 outputs a processing order OD1 based on the processing schedule SCA to the processing cell 200A at the processing destination. Further, the output unit 160 transmits a processing order OD2 based on the processing schedule SCB to the processing cell 200B at the processing destination.
[0086] Note that the processing orders OD1 and OD2 do not have to be exactly the same as the processing schedules SCA and SCB, and may be a part of the processing schedules SCA and SCB. As an example, the processing orders OD1 and OD2 at least include an identifier indicating the processing cell 200 at the processing destination, the type of the workpiece to be processed, and the quantity of the workpiece. Preferably, the processing orders OD1 and OD2 further include the start time of processing and the end time of processing.
[0087] <E. Hardware Configuration of the Information Processing Apparatus 10> Next, referring to FIG. 10, the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 10 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing apparatus 10.
[0088] The information processing apparatus 10 includes a control circuit 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a communication interface 14, a display interface 15, an input interface 17, and an auxiliary storage device 21. These components are connected to a bus BS.
[0089] The control circuit 11 is constituted by, for example, at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit can be constituted by, for example, at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), at least one GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), at least one ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof.
[0090] The control circuit 11 controls the operation of the information processing device 10 by executing various programs such as an order program 22. The order program 22 is a program for accepting input of a work production plan. Based on accepting an execution command for one of the various programs, the control circuit 11 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 21 or ROM 12 to RAM 13. The RAM 13 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data required for executing the various programs.
[0091] A LAN (Local Area Network), an antenna, etc. are connected to the communication interface 14. The information processing device 10 exchanges data with external devices via the communication interface 14. The external devices include, for example, the management device 100 and other communication devices.
[0092] A display 16 is connected to the display interface 15. The display interface 15 sends an image signal for displaying an image to the display 16 in accordance with a command from the control circuit 11 or the like. The display 16 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, or other display device. The display 16 may be configured integrally with the information processing device 10 or may be configured separately from the information processing device 10.
[0093] An input device 18 is connected to the input interface 17. The input device 18 is, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or any other device capable of accepting user operations. The input device 18 may be configured integrally with the information processing device 10, or may be configured separately from the information processing device 10.
[0094] The auxiliary storage device 21 is, for example, a hard disk, a flash memory, an SSD (Solid State Drive), or other storage media. The auxiliary storage device 21 stores the order program 22 and the like. The storage location of the order program 22 is not limited to the auxiliary storage device 21 and may be stored in the storage area of the control circuit 11 (for example, a cache memory or the like), the ROM 12, the RAM 13, an external device, or the like.
[0095] <Hardware Configuration of Management Device 100> Next, referring to FIG. 11, the hardware configuration of the management device 100 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the management device 100.
[0096] The management device 100 includes a control circuit 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, a communication interface 104, a display interface 105, an input interface 107, and an auxiliary storage device 120. These components are connected to the bus BS1.
[0097] The control circuit 101 is constituted by, for example, at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit can be constituted by, for example, at least one CPU, at least one GPU, at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof.
[0098] The control circuit 101 controls the operation of the management device 100 by executing various programs such as the management program 122. Based on receiving an execution instruction of the management program 122, the control circuit 101 reads the management program 122 from the ROM 102 or the auxiliary storage device 120 into the RAM 103. The RAM 103 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data necessary for the execution of the management program 122.
[0099] A LAN, an antenna, etc. are connected to the communication interface 104. The management device 100 exchanges data with external devices via the communication interface 104. The external devices include, for example, the information processing device 10, the processing cell 200, the user terminal 300, and other communication devices.
[0100] A display 106 is connected to the display interface 105. The display interface 105 sends an image signal for displaying an image to the display 106 in accordance with a command from the control circuit 101 or the like. The display 106 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or other display device. The display 106 may be configured integrally with the management device 100 or may be configured separately from the management device 100.
[0101] An input device 108 is connected to the input interface 107. The input device 108 is, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or any other device capable of accepting user operations. The input device 108 may be configured integrally with the management device 100, or may be configured separately from the management device 100.
[0102] The auxiliary storage device 120 is, for example, a hard disk, a flash memory, an SSD, or other storage medium. The auxiliary storage device 120 stores a management program 122, the above-mentioned production plan information 123, the above-mentioned workpiece information 124, the above-mentioned machining cell information 126, and the above-mentioned job definition information 128. The storage location of these is not limited to the auxiliary storage device 120, but may be stored in a storage area (for example, a cache memory, etc.) of the control circuit 101, the ROM 102, the RAM 103, another device, etc.
[0103] The management program 122 is a program for realizing part or all of the functional configuration shown in FIG. 6 above. The management program 122 may be provided not as a single program but incorporated into a part of any program. In this case, the conveyance control process by the management program 122 is realized in cooperation with any program. Even a program that does not include such some modules does not deviate from the gist of the management program 122 according to the present embodiment. Furthermore, part or all of the functions provided by the management program 122 may be realized by dedicated hardware. Furthermore, the management device 100 may be configured in a form such as a so-called cloud service in which at least one server executes part of the processing of the management program 122.
[0104] <Hardware Configuration of User Terminal 300> Next, referring to FIG. 12, the hardware configuration of the user terminal 300 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the user terminal 300.
[0105] The user terminal 300 includes a control circuit 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a communication interface 304, a display interface 305, an input interface 307, and an auxiliary storage device 320. These components are connected to a bus BS3.
[0106] The control circuit 301 is constituted by, for example, at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit can be constituted by, for example, at least one CPU, at least one GPU, at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof.
[0107] The control circuit 301 controls the operation of the user terminal 300 by executing various programs such as a display program 322. The display program 322 is a program for displaying the above-mentioned machining schedules SCA, SCB, etc. Upon receiving an execution command for one of the various programs, the control circuit 301 reads the program from the ROM 302 or the auxiliary storage device 320 into the RAM 303. The RAM 303 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data required for executing the various programs.
[0108] A LAN, an antenna, and the like are connected to the communication interface 304. The user terminal 300 exchanges data with external devices via the communication interface 304. The external devices include, for example, the management device 100, the processing cell 200, and other communication devices.
[0109] A display 306 is connected to the display interface 305. The display interface 305 sends an image signal for displaying an image to the display 306 in accordance with instructions from the control circuit 301 or the like. The display 306 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL display, or other display device. The display 306 may be configured integrally with the user terminal 300 or may be configured separately from the user terminal 300.
[0110] An input device 308 is connected to the input interface 307. The input device 308 is, for example, a mouse, a keyboard, a touch panel, or any other device capable of receiving user operations. The input device 308 may be configured integrally with the user terminal 300, or may be configured separately from the user terminal 300.
[0111] The auxiliary storage device 320 is, for example, a hard disk, a flash memory, an SSD, and other storage media. The auxiliary storage device 320 stores a display program 322 and the like. The storage location of the display program 322 is not limited to the auxiliary storage device 320, and it may be stored in the storage area of the control circuit 301 (such as a cache memory), the ROM 302, the RAM 303, an external device, or the like.
[0112] <H. First Modified Example>
[0113] (H1. Overview) In the above, the administrator registered the processing order of the workpiece in the management device 100 by inputting the production plan from the information processing device 10. However, the method of registering the processing order is not limited to this. As an example, the processing order may be registered from the processing cell 200. Hereinafter, an example of registering the processing order from the processing cell 200 will be described.
[0114] (H2. Management System 5A) First, referring to FIG. 13, the device configuration of the management system 5A according to the first modified example will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the management system 5A.
[0115] As shown in FIG. 13, the management system 5A includes an information processing device 10, a management device 100, a plurality of processing cells 200, and a user terminal 300.
[0116] The management system 5A according to this modified example is different from the management system 5 shown in FIG. 1 in that the reading devices 400A to 400C are provided in the processing cells 200A to 200C. Since the other points are as described above, the description thereof will not be repeated.
[0117] Hereinafter, when the reading devices 400A to 400C are not particularly distinguished, the reading devices 400A to 400C will also be referred to as the reading device 400.
[0118] The reading device 400 is a device for reading the identification code of a workpiece. The identification code may be, for example, a two-dimensional barcode such as a QR code (registered trademark), a one-dimensional barcode, or other codes. Alternatively, the identification code may be distinguished by a shape such as a notch. The reading device 400 recognizes the type of workpiece by reading the identification code attached to the workpiece.
[0119] (H3. How to register a processing order) Next, a method for registering a processing order in this modified example will be described with reference to Fig. 14 and Fig. 15. Fig. 14 is a diagram for explaining a method for registering a processing order using the reading device 400.
[0120] The reading device 400 is installed, for example, in the work station 250 (see FIG. 2) in the processing cell 200. In step S1, an operator carries a workpiece having an identification code CD attached thereto to the work station 250 and has the reading device 400 read the identification code CD.
[0121] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of the work performed by the worker in step S1. As shown in FIG. 15, a piece of paper bearing an identification code CD is attached to the workpiece W to be processed using tape or the like. The identification code CD may be printed directly on the workpiece W to be processed. The identification code CD has a different pattern for each type of workpiece W. The worker U carries the workpiece W to be processed to the work station 250 and has the reading device 400 read the identification code CD. The worker U then mounts the workpiece W to be processed on a pallet PT. This allows the worker U to make advance preparations for processing within the work station 250.
[0122] Referring again to Figure 14, in step S2, the processing cell 200, based on the reading device 400 installed in its own cell reading the identification code CD of the work W, transmits the identifier of the work W indicated by the identification code CD to the management device 100 as the identifier of the work W to be processed.
[0123] 14, an identification code CD indicating a workpiece ID "001" is read within the processing cell 200A. In this case, the processing cell 200A transmits the workpiece ID "001" to the management device 100 as an identifier of the workpiece W to be processed. At this time, the processing cell 200A also transmits its own cell identification information to the management device 100.
[0124] Next, in step S3, the management device 100 determines whether the processing cell 200A can execute the job to be executed that is associated with the workpiece ID “001.” This determination process is performed based on, for example, the above-described workpiece information 124 and the above-described processing cell information 126.
[0125] More specifically, first, the management device 100 refers to the workpiece information 124 to identify the job "A" to be executed that is associated with the workpiece ID "001" to be processed. Next, the management device 100 refers to the processing cell information 126 to determine whether the processing cell 200A is capable of executing the job "A" to be executed. In the example of FIG. 14, "A" and "C" are associated as jobs that the processing cell 200A can execute, so the management device 100 determines that the processing cell 200A is capable of executing the job "A" to be executed.
[0126] Next, in step S4, the management device 100 generates a processing order for processing one workpiece with the workpiece ID "001" and transmits the processing order to the processing cell 200A.
[0127] As described above, a worker can register a processing order by simply having the reader 400 in the processing cell 200 read the identification code CD. At this time, the worker does not need to know what jobs each processing cell 200 can perform. This allows even a worker with little knowledge to register a processing order, eliminating the dependency of work on individual tasks.
[0128] This effect is particularly noticeable when the management system 5A is introduced to a factory overseas. Depending on the work site, some workers may not perform their work as instructed. In such cases, the manager cannot instruct the worker to perform complex tasks. However, with the management system 5A according to this modification, the worker can register a processing order by simply having the reader 400 read the identification code CD. This allows the production plan to proceed regardless of the worker's level.
[0129] Preferably, the management system 5A rejects the registration of the processing order when the worker carries the workpiece to be processed to the wrong processing cell 200. Fig. 16 is a diagram for explaining an example of processing when the worker carries the workpiece to be processed to the wrong processing cell 200.
[0130] 16, in step S11, the worker carries a workpiece having a workpiece ID "002" to the processing cell 200A. Then, the worker causes the reading device 400A in the processing cell 200A to read the identification code CD having the workpiece ID "002."
[0131] In this case, in step S12, the machining cell 200A transmits the workpiece ID "002" indicated by the identification code CD to the management device 100 as the identifier of the workpiece W to be machined.
[0132] Next, in step S13, the management device 100 determines whether the processing cell 200A can execute the job to be executed that is associated with the workpiece ID “002.” This determination process is performed based on, for example, the above-described workpiece information 124 and the above-described processing cell information 126.
[0133] More specifically, the management device 100 first refers to the workpiece information 124 to identify the job "B" to be executed that is associated with the workpiece ID "002" to be processed. Next, the management device 100 refers to the processing cell information 126 to determine whether the processing cell 200A can execute the job "B" to be executed. In the example of FIG. 16, "A" and "C" are associated as jobs that the processing cell 200A can execute, so the management device 100 determines that the processing cell 200A cannot execute the job "B" to be executed. In this case, the management device 100 does not register the processing order for the workpiece with the workpiece ID "002" in the processing cell 200A.
[0134] Next, in step S14, the management device 100 sends a notification to the processing cell 200A indicating that the workpiece with workpiece ID "002" cannot be processed in the processing cell 200A. The processing cell 200A then displays the content of the notification on a display within its own cell. As an example, the display is provided in the work station 250 of the processing cell 200A. This allows the worker to recognize that the workpiece to be processed has been transported to the wrong processing cell 200A.
[0135] Preferably, in step S13, when it is determined that the processing cell 200A is unable to execute the job "B" to be executed, the management device 100 identifies another processing cell that can execute the job "B" to be executed based on the workpiece information 124 and the processing cell information 126. Then, in step S14, the management device 100 transmits a notification indicating the identifier of the other processing cell to the processing cell 200A.
[0136] In the example of Fig. 16, since the processing cell 200B can perform the job "B" to be executed, the management device 100 transmits a notification indicating the identifier of the processing cell 200B to the processing cell 200A. Then, the processing cell 200A not only notifies the user that the destination of the workpiece ID "002" is incorrect, but also displays the identifier of the processing cell 200B as the correct destination. This allows the worker to recognize the correct destination of the workpiece.
[0137] <I. Second Modified Example>
[0138] (I1. Overview) In the above-described first modified example, the operator could register a processing order from the reading device 400 provided in the processing cell 200. However, the installation location of the reading device 400 is not limited to the processing cell 200. In this modified example, the reading device 400 is provided at a work station in a location separate from the processing cell 200. Hereinafter, an example of registering a processing order from the work station will be described.
[0139] (I2. Management System 5B) First, referring to FIG. 17, the device configuration of the management system 5B according to the second modified example will be described. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the management system 5B.
[0140] As shown in FIG. 17, the management system 5B includes an information processing device 10, a management device 100, a plurality of processing cells 200, a user terminal 300, a reading device 400, and a self-propelled transport device 500.
[0141] The management system 5B according to this modified example is different from the above-described management system 5A (see FIG. 13) in that the reading device 400 is provided at the work station 600 and in that it further includes a transport device 500. Since the other points are as described above, the description thereof will not be repeated.
[0142] (I3. Appearance of Transport Device 500) Next, referring to FIG. 18, the transport device 500 shown in FIG. 17 will be described. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the appearance of the transport device 500.
[0143] The transport device 500 is a self-propelled device. The transport device 500 is configured to transport transported items such as workpieces and tools to predetermined locations such as the processing cell 200 and the work station 600.
[0144] As shown in FIG. 18, the transport device 500 includes a wheel-driven traveling body 530 and an arm robot 540.
[0145] The traveling body 530 includes a cover 532. A laser sensor 534 is provided inside the cover 532. The laser sensor 534 is configured to emit a laser beam while rotating and receive the reflected laser beam. In this way, the laser sensor 534 measures the distance to surrounding objects. The conveyance device 500 controls the traveling of the traveling body 530 in the forward / backward and left / right directions based on the measurement results of the laser sensor 534.
[0146] The arm robot 540 is provided, for example, on the traveling body 530. The arm robot 540 includes arms AR1 to AR4 and an end effector 545.
[0147] One end of arm AR1 is connected to traveling body 530. The other end of arm AR1 is connected to one end of arm AR2. The other end of arm AR2 is connected to one end of arm AR3. The other end of arm AR3 is connected to one end of arm AR4. An end effector 545 is provided at the other end of arm AR4. End effector 545 is configured to be able to hold a transported object.
[0148] Arm AR1 is configured to be rotatable by a motor around the connecting shaft with traveling body 530 as the center of rotation. Arm AR2 is configured to be rotatable by a motor around the connecting shaft with arm AR1 as the center of rotation. Arm AR3 is configured to be rotatable by a motor around the connecting shaft with arm AR2 as the center of rotation. Arm AR4 is configured to be rotatable by a motor around the connecting shaft with arm AR3 as the center of rotation.
[0149] In addition, a setting table 539 for the transported object is provided on the traveling body 530. In the example of FIG. 18, a workpiece W is shown as the transported object. The arm robot 540 grasps the workpiece W on the setting table 539 and transports the workpiece W to a designated location. Alternatively, the arm robot 540 picks up the workpiece W from the designated location and places the workpiece W on the setting table 539.
[0150] (I4. Hardware configuration of the transport device 500) Next, the hardware configuration of the transport device 500 will be described with reference to Fig. 19. Fig. 19 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the transport device 500.
[0151] The transport device 500 includes a control circuit 501, a ROM 502, a RAM 503, and a communication interface 504. These components are connected to a bus BS5.
[0152] The control circuit 501 is configured, for example, by at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit may be configured, for example, by at least one CPU, at least one GPU, at least one ASIC, at least one FPGA, or a combination thereof.
[0153] The control circuit 501 controls the operation of the conveyance device 500 by executing various programs such as a control program 522 and an operating system. Upon receiving an execution command for the control program 522, the control circuit 501 reads the control program 522 from the storage device 520 or the ROM 502 to the RAM 503. The RAM 503 functions as a working memory and temporarily stores various data required for executing the control program 522.
[0154] A LAN, an antenna, and the like are connected to the communication interface 504. The transport device 500 realizes wireless or wired communication with external devices via the communication interface 504. The external devices include, for example, the management device 100, the processing cell 200, the user terminal 300, and the reading device 400.
[0155] The storage device 520 is a storage medium such as a hard disk or a flash memory. The storage device 520 stores a control program 522 for controlling the travel of the conveyance device 500, a three-dimensional map 524 that defines possible travel routes within the factory, and the like. The storage location of the control program 522 and the three-dimensional map 524 is not limited to the storage device 520, and may be stored in a storage area (e.g., cache memory) of the control circuit 501, the ROM 502, the RAM 503, an external device (e.g., a server), or the like.
[0156] The three-dimensional map 524 is generated, for example, by SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) technology. The three-dimensional map 524 is information generated to identify the current position of the transport device 500, and is information indicating the positions of stationary objects in the traveling location of the transport device 500. Examples of the stationary objects include each device in the processing cell 200, each device in the work station 600 (for example, the reading device 400), walls, shelves, etc.
[0157] The transport device 500 identifies the current position of the transport device 500 by comparing the two-dimensional distance data measured by the above-mentioned laser sensor 534 (see FIG. 18) with the three-dimensional map 524. Then, the transport device 500 travels toward an arbitrary position instructed by the management device 100 based on the identified current position and the three-dimensional map 524.
[0158] (I5. How to register a processing order) Next, a method for registering a processing order in this modified example will be described with reference to Fig. 20. Fig. 20 is a diagram for explaining a method for registering a processing order from the work station 600.
[0159] In this modification, the reading device 400 is installed in a work station 600 separate from the processing cell 200. In addition, the work station 600 holds various types of workpieces to be processed.
[0160] In step S21, the worker causes the reader 400 to read the identification code CD attached to the workpiece at the work station 600. This operation is as described above, and therefore the description thereof will not be repeated.
[0161] Next, in step S22, based on having read the identification code CD of the workpiece W, the reading device 400 transmits the identifier of the workpiece W indicated by the identification code CD to the management device 100 as the identifier of the workpiece W to be processed.
[0162] 20, an identification code CD indicating a workpiece ID "001" is read. In this case, the reading device 400 transmits the workpiece ID "001" to the management device 100 as the identifier of the workpiece W to be processed.
[0163] Next, in step S23, the management device 100 identifies, based on the workpiece information 124 and the processing cell information 126, a processing cell 200 capable of executing the job to be executed that is associated with the workpiece ID "001."
[0164] More specifically, first, the management device 100 refers to the work information 124 and identifies the job "A" associated with the work "001" as the job to be executed. Next, the management device 100 refers to the processing cell information 126 and searches for a processing cell 200A that can execute the identified job to be executed "A". As a result, the processing cell 200A that can execute the job to be executed "A" is identified.
[0165] Next, in step S24, the management device 100 transmits a transfer order to the transfer device 500 to transfer the workpiece to be processed from the work station 600 to the processing cell 200A. In the transfer order, for example, the work station 600 is designated as the transfer start position, and the processing cell 200A is designated as the transfer end position. As a result, the transfer device 500 transfers the workpiece to be processed from the work station 600 to the processing cell 200A based on the above-mentioned three-dimensional map 524.
[0166] Meanwhile, in step S25, the management device 100 generates a processing order for processing one workpiece with workpiece ID "001" and transmits the processing order to the processing cell 200A. The processing order is executed after the execution of the transport order is completed. In other words, the processing cell 200A executes the processing order after the transport of the workpiece by the transport device 500 is completed.
[0167] As described above, in this modified example, the worker can register a processing order for each workpiece at the work station 600. At this time, the worker does not need to know the jobs that can be executed by each processing cell 200 or the destination of the workpiece. This allows even a worker with little knowledge to register a processing order, eliminating the dependency of work on individual skills.
[0168] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]
[0169] 5 Management system, 5A Management system, 5B Management system, 10 Information processing device, 11 Control circuit, 12 ROM, 13 RAM, 14 Communication interface, 15 Display interface, 16 Display, 17 Input interface, 18 Input device, 21 Auxiliary storage device, 22 Order program, 100 Management device, 101 Control circuit, 102 ROM, 103 RAM, 104 Communication interface, 105 Display interface, 106 Display, 107 Input interface, 108 Input device, 120 Auxiliary storage device, 122 Management program, 123 Production plan information, 124 Work information, 124A Identifier, 124B Job information, 126 Machining cell information, 126A Identifier, 126B Job information, 128 Job definition information, 128A Identifier, 128B Job group, 128B1 Machining program information, 128B2 Machining time information, 128B3 Tool information, 128B4 mounting time information, 128B5 removal time information, 152 schedule generation unit, 160 output unit, 200 machining cell, 200A machining cell, 200B machining cell, 200C machining cell, 220 storage unit, 230 transport device, 232 rail, 234 carriage, 236 fork unit, 240 machine tool, 250 work station, 300 user terminal, 301 control circuit, 302 ROM, 303 RAM, 304 communication interface, 305 display interface, 306 display, 307 input interface, 308 input device, 320 auxiliary storage device, 322 display program, 400 reader, 400A reader, 400B reader, 400C reader, 500 transport device, 501 control circuit, 502 ROM, 503 RAM, 504 Communication interface, 520 storage device, 522 control program, 524 3D map, 530 traveling body, 532 cover, 534 laser sensor, 539 installation stand, 540 arm robot, 545 end effector, 600 work station, AR1 arm, AR2 arm, AR3 arm, AR4 arm, BS bus, BS1 bus, BS3 bus, BS5 bus, CD identification code, NW1 network, NW2 network, OD1 processing order, OD2Processing order, PS1 production plan, PS2 production plan, PT pallet, SCA processing schedule, SCB processing schedule, U worker, W work.
Claims
1. A management system for generating a processing order for a workpiece, A management device; a plurality of processing cells capable of communicating with the management device; The management device A process of acquiring work information that associates a job to be executed, which indicates a machining process of a work, with each work identifier; A process of acquiring machining cell information associating executable jobs with each machining cell identifier; 、 a process of identifying a processing cell capable of executing the job to be executed, which is associated with the identifier of a workpiece to be processed, based on the workpiece information and the processing cell information, when the input of the identifier of the workpiece to be processed is received; and transmitting a processing order to the specified processing cell to instruct the processing of the workpiece to be processed.
2. Each of the plurality of processing cells is provided with a reading device for reading an identification code of a workpiece, Each of the plurality of processing cells executes a process of transmitting an identifier indicated by the identification code to the management device as an identifier of the workpiece to be processed based on the reading of the identification code by the reading device provided in the own cell; the specifying process includes a process of determining whether the own cell is capable of executing the execution target job; The management system according to claim 1 , wherein the sending process executed by the management device includes a process of sending the processing order to the own cell when it is determined that the own cell is capable of executing the job to be executed.
3. The management system of claim 2, wherein the management device further executes a process of sending a notification to the own cell indicating that the own cell is unable to process the workpiece to be processed when it is determined that the own cell is unable to execute the job to be executed.
4. The management device further When it is determined that the own cell is unable to execute the job to be executed, a process of identifying another machining cell that can execute the job to be executed based on the workpiece information and the machining cell information; 4. The management system according to claim 3, wherein the management system transmits a notification indicating an identifier of the other processing cell to the own cell.
5. The management system according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the transmitting process executed by the own cell further transmits an identifier of the own cell to the management device.
6. The management system further comprises: A self-propelled transport device; a work station provided with a reader for reading the identification code; The reading device transmits the identifier indicated by the identification code to the management device as the identifier of the workpiece to be machined, The management system according to claim 1 , wherein the management device further executes a process of transmitting to the transport device a transport order for transporting the workpiece to be machined from the work station to the executable processing cell.
7. A management method for determining an allocation destination of a workpiece processing order from among a plurality of processing cells, comprising: A step of acquiring work information that associates a job to be executed, which indicates a machining process of a work, with each work identifier; obtaining machining cell information associating executable jobs with each identifier of the machining cell; When receiving an input of an identifier of a workpiece to be machined, identifying a machining cell capable of executing the job to be executed that is associated with the identifier based on the workpiece information and the machining cell information; and transmitting a processing order to the identified processing cell to instruct the processing of the workpiece to be processed.
8. A management program for determining an allocation destination of a workpiece processing order from among a plurality of processing cells, The management program is installed on a computer. A process of acquiring work information that associates a job to be executed, which indicates a machining process of a work, with each work identifier; A process of acquiring machining cell information associating executable jobs with each machining cell identifier; a process of identifying a processing cell capable of executing the job to be executed, which is associated with the identifier of a workpiece to be processed, based on the workpiece information and the processing cell information, when the input of the identifier of the workpiece to be processed is received; and transmitting a processing order to the specified processing cell to instruct the processing of the workpiece to be processed.
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