Programs, computers, and information processing methods

Abstract

We provide programs, computers, and information processing methods that reduce management costs while utilizing existing equipment. [Solution] The system is provided with a receiving means 16, a storage means 18, and a display means 22. The receiving means 16 receives data about equipment parts and data about equipment including movable property and fixtures from the user terminal 42. The storage means 18 stores the received data about parts and equipment in a storage unit, associating them with each other. The display means 22 displays the stored data about parts.

Description

Technical Field

[0006] , , , , ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a program, a computer, and an information processing method.

Background Art

[0002] In Patent Document 1, a plant maintenance planning method and the like that can suppress the financial loss of the plant equipment operator due to the depletion of spare parts inventory and the plant maintenance costs required for spare parts procurement have been proposed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in many small and medium-sized enterprises, there is a shortage of inventory storage space and no room for management costs. In addition, it is difficult to make an investment decision for new equipment, so the equipment is aging.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of such points, and an object thereof is to provide a program, a computer, and an information processing method that reduce management costs while making use of existing equipment.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The program of the present disclosure is a program that causes a computer to function as a reception means, a storage means, and a display means, wherein the reception means receives data related to parts of equipment and data related to equipment including movable property and fixtures from a user terminal, the storage means stores the received data related to parts and equipment in a storage unit in an associated manner, The display means is characterized by displaying data related to the stored components.

[0007] In the program disclosed herein, The storage means may store the part as an existing part if the part received as data related to the part is used in the equipment that received it.

[0008] The program disclosed herein is The aforementioned computer is further made to function as a means for issuing management labels, When the receiving means receives data relating to a part from a user terminal, the management label issuing means can issue data relating to a label printing format that includes information about the part and transmit it to the user terminal.

[0009] In the program disclosed herein, The aforementioned receiving means receives floor plans and part location information for each user site. The display means may also display the positions of the parts on a map.

[0010] The program disclosed herein is The aforementioned computer is further made to function as a means for tagging products that have been discontinued. The aforementioned end-of-production tagging means may, upon acquiring end-of-production information for a part, associate the part with that end-of-production information and store it in the storage unit.

[0011] In the program disclosed herein, The display means may also display discontinued product information along with the stored data on the parts.

[0012] In the program disclosed herein, The display means may display information regarding the corresponding lifespan along with the stored data about the component.

[0013] The program disclosed herein is The aforementioned computer is further made to function as a means of public access, The disclosure means can make the data regarding predetermined parts or facilities stored in the storage unit viewable by a predetermined person.

[0014] The program of the present disclosure further causes the computer to function as a registration means and a transmission means, the registration means registers a user who operates a user terminal that receives data regarding parts and data regarding facilities by the reception means, when there is an offer to purchase or borrow for the parts or facilities that have become viewable, the transmission means can transmit information regarding the offer to purchase or borrow to the corresponding user terminal.

[0015] The computer of the present disclosure is a computer that functions as a reception means, a storage means, and a display means by executing a program, the reception means receives data regarding parts of facilities and data regarding facilities including movable and immovable properties from a user terminal, the storage means stores the received data regarding parts and facilities in a storage unit in an associated manner, the display means is characterized by displaying the stored data regarding parts.

[0016] The information processing method of the present disclosure is an information processing method executed by a computer having a control unit, wherein the control unit receives data regarding parts of facilities and data regarding facilities including movable and immovable properties from a user terminal, the control unit stores the received data regarding parts and facilities in a storage unit in an associated manner, the control unit displays the stored data regarding parts, and is characterized by including these.

Advantages of the Invention

[0017] The program, computer, and information processing method of the present disclosure can reduce management costs while making use of existing facilities.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example in which a list of facilities and existing products at a user's base is displayed in a map view on a computer according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a management label issuance flow and an in-kind confirmation flow according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a disclosure mode by a disclosure means according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an exemplary information processing flow of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing another exemplary information processing flow of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing another exemplary information processing flow of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing another exemplary information processing flow of an information processing method according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings, but the invention according to the present disclosure is not limited thereto. FIGS. 1 to 8 are diagrams showing an information processing system 1 and an information processing method according to the present disclosure.

[0020] [Information Processing System 1] The information processing system 1 according to this embodiment comprises a server 10, user terminals 42, and manufacturer terminals 54. As shown in Figure 1, there may be multiple user terminals 42 (42a, 42b, ...) and multiple manufacturer terminals 54 (54a, 54b, ...), and the number of these is not limited. The server 10 is a management server (computer) capable of sending and receiving information with user terminals 42, manufacturer terminals 54, etc., via a communication network (not shown), such as an internet line. The server 10 according to this disclosure can provide a parts management platform that reduces management costs while making use of the existing equipment of each user operating the user terminal 42. The parts management platform (website) managed by the server 10 may be used via a browser, a so-called app (application software), or both a browser and an app.

[0021] In this specification, "(equipment) parts" refers to the components that make up the equipment, but is not limited to items that are traded independently; custom-made items are also included. Examples of parts in the manufacturing industry include bearings, speed reducers (gears, shafts), control boards (PLCs), motors, inverters, etc.

[0022] In the parts management platform, parts are stored (tagged) as either spare parts or existing parts depending on the user's usage. Whether a part is a spare part or an existing part may be determined simultaneously when data for each part is received, or it may be determined after receiving usage information regarding the part's usage. "Spare parts" are parts that can be used for equipment, and are also known as idle parts or inventory (stock). In this specification, if a part is installed in equipment, that part is also called an "existing part," and if it is not installed in equipment, that part is also called a "spare part." However, the corresponding parts, spare parts, and existing parts are the same thing. Basically, the matters described for parts also apply to existing parts and spare parts, and the matters described for existing parts also apply to spare parts (and vice versa), so explanations are omitted as appropriate.

[0023] "Equipment" is a concept that includes movable property and fixtures composed of parts. Specific examples of equipment include, but are not limited to, vehicles, electrical equipment, industrial machinery, construction machinery, agricultural machinery, and machine tools. "User" is a person (whether natural or legal) who manages at least their own parts and / or equipment through the parts management platform relating to this disclosure. "Manufacturer" is a person (whether natural or legal) who manufactures, sells, transfers, imports, exports, etc., equipment or parts, and in this specification, manufacturers also include wholesalers, trading companies, etc. that do not manufacture products, and broadly include suppliers.

[0024] <Server (Computer) 10> Server 10 can be composed of industrial computers, personal computers, tablet terminals, etc., and may also be a virtual server within a physical server accessible via the Internet. Furthermore, there may be multiple such hardware components and virtual servers, and any combination is possible. The server 10 shown in Figure 1 comprises a control unit 12, a storage unit 30, and a communication unit 40.

[0025] (Control Unit 12) The control unit 12 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), etc., and controls the operation of the server 10. Specifically, the control unit 12 functions as a registration means 14, a reception means 16, a storage means 18, a production end tagging means 20, a display means 22, a management label issuing means 24, a publication means 26, a transmission means 28, etc., by executing a program stored in the storage unit 30, which will be described later. These functions may be performed by executing one or more independent programs or applications. Furthermore, these programs and applications may be provided on a single terminal (server 10) or distributed across multiple terminals (including server 10), and in the latter case, they may be interconnected via wired cables or a communication network. Each means will be described later, but as will be explained in the information processing method, the control unit 12 (server 10) can perform various functions to realize the technical concept of this application.

[0026] (Storage unit 30) The storage unit 30 is composed of, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), or SSD (Solid State Drive). Furthermore, the storage unit 30 is not limited to being built into the server 10, but may also be a storage medium that can be detachably attached to the server 10 (for example, a USB memory stick). Alternatively, instead of providing the storage unit 30, various types of information may be stored in other storage means (such as a cloud server).

[0027] The information and data stored in the memory unit 30 include user information such as user account registration information, profile, industry attributes, location, and floor plan; user-specific parts data; user-specific spare parts data; user-specific existing parts data; user-specific equipment data; and spare parts discontinuation information. This information can be stored as a parts database (DB) 31, spare parts DB 32, existing parts DB 34, discontinuation DB 36, lifespan information DB 37, and equipment DB 38, as shown in Figure 1. Alternatively, instead of providing databases as shown in Figure 1, each piece of information and data may be associated and stored in a single memory unit. Alternatively, multiple memory units may be provided for each piece of information to be stored (first memory unit, second memory unit, third memory unit, etc.), and each piece of information can be associated and stored. Each DB may include permission information for publication and viewing granted by the user or the administrator of the server 10 (hereinafter simply referred to as "administrator"). Here, "profile" refers to information including the user's business details and history, although this is not particularly limited. "Industry attribute" refers to information used to group data for viewing purposes, as described later, but the specific content is not limited. Examples of "groups" include different locations of the same user (company, etc.) or users of related companies. Each user may specify the members of a group (user accounts and / or location accounts). As described later, account settings may be made per company or per location within the same company (1 account = 1 user or 1 location). In other words, as an example of using "groups," multiple accounts can be aggregated, and information on parts (spare parts and existing parts), equipment, etc., can be shared between these accounts (between users or between locations). "Location" is not particularly limited and refers to, for example, a plot of land, and "plot" can be arbitrarily set for each storage location or piece of equipment that the user wants to manage. For example, one factory may be considered as one plot, or one factory may be divided into multiple plots. It is conceivable that one piece of equipment may be installed in one plot, or that multiple pieces of equipment may be installed in one plot.

[0028] Specifically, "Parts DB31" is a database that stores data about parts managed by each user. The "data about parts (including data about spare parts and data about existing parts)" is not particularly limited and can store the part's name, model number, manufacturer, condition (used or new, acquisition date, etc.), quantity and unit, location (storage location or installation location at a base), price, image, etc. This information may also be used as the information indicated by the barcode described later. Furthermore, information that can be used as a memo, reminder, search tag, characteristics to be recorded for each part, or information that can be used as a filter may be included in the data about parts. In this embodiment, spare parts DB32 and existing parts DB34 are provided separately within Parts DB31, but even without providing separate spare parts DB32 and existing parts DB34, each data entry in Parts DB31 may be tagged to indicate whether it is a spare part or an existing part and made searchable. In another embodiment, instead of providing a parts DB31, it is possible to provide a spare parts DB32 and an existing parts DB34 depending on the usage status of the parts, and furthermore, it may be possible to move data related to parts (spare parts, existing parts) between the spare parts DB32 and the existing parts DB34.

[0029] The "Spare Parts DB32" is a database that stores data about spare parts managed by each user. The data about spare parts may be stored in the storage unit 30 in association with data about the equipment that the spare part constitutes (usable) (the same applies to the Parts DB31). In addition, the data about the equipment here only needs to be the name, and each user may access the data about each piece of equipment from the Equipment DB38.

[0030] The "Existing Parts DB34" is a database that registers equipment parts operating at each user's location. Alternatively, existing parts currently in use by each user may be stored in the storage unit 30, associated with data about the equipment that those existing parts constitute. Through the Existing Parts DB34, for example, users can search for and learn about the parts (existing parts) they are currently using.

[0031] The "Discontinuation DB36" can store parts and their discontinuation information in the storage unit 30. The "Discontinuation Information" can include the discontinuation date, product information URL, etc. Furthermore, it may also include information on replacement products or successor models, as well as information on the period until the discontinuation date and information for calculating that period (a formula for calculating the number of days from the present to the discontinuation date). This information may be provided by each manufacturer or user, or it may be collected by the administrator. The discontinuation information can be automatically collected, for example, from each manufacturer's web page by a crawler.

[0032] The "Lifespan Information DB37" can store information relating to the lifespan of a component in the storage unit 30. "(Component) Lifespan Information" refers to information regarding the period or conditions under which a component can be used, but is not particularly limited. It may include the service life, expiration date, maximum number of uses, and warranty period obtained from the component manufacturer. In the case of used or existing components, it may also include the usage period, number of uses, period until expiration date, remaining number of uses until the maximum number of uses is reached, and information for calculating these (day calculation formula, remaining number calculation formula until the maximum number of uses is reached), as well as special notes such as damage. The manufacturer, user, and administrator can set and collect lifespan information. Lifespan information may be set based on the properties of the component, such as a battery, or it may be set based on the properties and operating conditions of the equipment, or based on empirical rules.

[0033] The "Equipment DB38" allows each user to store data related to the equipment they manage in the storage unit 30. This data includes the equipment name, model number, and manufacturer. Each user can register the equipment they manage, regardless of the number of locations.

[0034] (Communications Department 40) The communication unit 40 connects the control unit 12 to an external device (for example, a user terminal 42) via wireless or wired connection, enabling communication between the control unit 12 and the external device. The control unit 12 can send and receive information to and from the external device via the communication unit 40.

[0035] (others) In addition, the server 10 may be equipped with an operation unit (input unit) such as a keyboard that allows the administrator to give various commands to the control unit 12, and a display unit (output unit) such as a monitor that displays various screens by receiving display command signals from the control unit 12. In one embodiment, a display operation unit such as a touch panel that integrates these operation unit and display unit may be used.

[0036] (Details of the control unit 12) (Registration method 14) The registration means 14 registers users who operate the user terminal 42, which receives data on parts and equipment from the reception means 16. A location-specific identification ID can also be issued to each user.

[0037] In this specification, "registration" means, without any particular limitations, assigning an identification number or the like to a user and setting up an account on the server 10, which enables the user to manage parts, etc. on the parts management platform. Accounts may be set up for each user or for each location (i.e., 1 account = 1 user, or 1 account = 1 location). Alternatively, accounts may be set up for each user, and parts, etc. may be managed for each location within that account (i.e., 1 account = 1 user = 1 or more locations). The registration means 14 can also perform a similar registration process for manufacturers. As an example of a registration method on this platform, a registrant (user, etc.) may make a predetermined declaration of intent to register (e.g., including agreement to management regulations, presentation of identity verification, etc.). After registration, it may be possible to input and view data on parts, etc.

[0038] (Reception method 16) The reception means 16 receives data related to parts and data related to equipment from the user terminal 42.

[0039] The user may conduct an existing equipment survey of the equipment and send data about the existing equipment installed in the equipment to the server 10.

[0040] The reception means 16 can also accept site plans and part location information for each user site. Part location information refers to information about the location of parts at the site (site plan). Specifically, it is sufficient to know the location (arrangement) of the parts at the site. In the case of spare parts, this is their storage location, and in the case of existing parts, it is the installation location of the equipment at the site in which the part is used. The detailed location of the parts within the equipment does not need to be specified (see Figure 2).

[0041] (Storage means 18) The storage means 18 stores data relating to the received parts and equipment in the storage unit 30. The storage means 18 can store, for each user, the relationship between which parts correspond to which equipment as a parts database 31.

[0042] If a part received as data relating to a part is used in the equipment that received it, the storage means 18 stores the part as an existing part. As described above, the part may be tagged as an existing part in the part DB 31, or the part (existing part) may be associated with data relating to the equipment and stored in the existing parts DB 34. On the other hand, if a part received as data relating to a part is not used in the equipment that received it, the storage means 18 can also store the part as a spare part. As a method of tagging, for example, the storage means 18 may tag the part as a spare part in the part DB 31, or store it in the spare parts DB 32. In this specification, "associating a part with equipment" is based on the premise that the part can become part of the equipment as a component. Therefore, a spare part is a part that is not used in equipment, but a part that cannot be used in a particular piece of equipment does not become a spare part for that equipment.

[0043] (Discontinued product tagging method 20) When the end-of-production tagging means 20 acquires end-of-production information for a part, it associates the part with that end-of-production information and stores it in the storage unit 30. The end-of-production tagging means 20 can automatically perform this association (tagging) when acquiring end-of-production information. Note that this tagging method is not limited; an end-of-production DB 36 may be constructed, or end-of-production information may be attached as a tag to each data in the part DB 31. When tagging end-of-production information to each data for each user, the end-of-production tagging means 20 may also calculate and update the number of days from the current time to the end-of-production date of the part as part of the end-of-production information and store it in the storage unit 30.

[0044] (Lifespan information tagging means 21) When the lifespan information tagging means 21 acquires information regarding the lifespan of a component, it associates the component with the information regarding its lifespan and stores it in the storage unit 30. The lifespan information tagging means 21 can automatically perform this association (tagging) when acquiring lifespan information. The tagging method is not limited; a lifespan information DB 37 may be constructed, or lifespan information may be attached as a tag to each data in the component DB 31. When tagging lifespan information to each data in the component DB 31 for each user, the lifespan information tagging means 21 may calculate and update the number of days from the current time until the component's expiration date, or the remaining number of uses from the current number of uses to the usage limit, as lifespan information, and store it in the storage unit 30.

[0045] (Display means 22) The display means 22 displays data related to stored parts. The display means 22 can display this information in a list on the user terminal 42 or the display unit of the server 10. In this specification, "display" (including "make to display") is not limited to a state in which the information is actually displayed on the user terminal 42, etc., but also includes a state in which, for example, the user terminal 42 can display the information when a predetermined display button is pressed in a browser or application on the user terminal 42. The display means 22 can also display parts and equipment that have been searched and extracted according to the user's specifications. The method of "display" is not particularly limited, and for example, all data related to spare parts may be displayed in a predetermined order (for example, in sequential order such as A, B, C, etc., in order of equipment used, in order of location, in order of registration, in order of end of production date), or only the names of each spare part may be displayed in a list, and the user may specify which spare parts for which they want more detailed information. In addition, the display means 22 may display equipment information (name) and, in response to a user's specification of equipment, display the spare parts associated with that equipment.

[0046] The display means 22 can also map-display a list of parts, spare parts, existing parts, and equipment (see Figure 2) based on a floor plan of the user's site. Figure 2 shows an example of a map-display of equipment and existing parts at the user's site. The display means 22 can also map-display the storage locations of spare parts at the user's site. The map (floor plan, equipment layout) may also display the number of spare parts and existing parts, and the display method can be arbitrarily set.

[0047] When displaying parts, the display means 22 can display end-of-production information along with stored data about the parts. The display means 22 can refer to the storage unit 30 to display, for example, that the manufacturer has discontinued production or that it is within a predetermined period before production ends (alert function). In addition, calculations such as the number of days may be performed by referring to the storage unit 30 when displaying the information. The "predetermined period" is typically a range of 6 months or 1 year from the end of production, but is not particularly limited and can be arbitrarily set and changed according to the time when the end-of-production information is acquired. For business planning purposes, it is preferable to display "Scheduled to end production" or the like immediately after acquiring the end-of-production information. When displaying spare parts, etc. on a map, the display means 22 may also display the end-of-production information on the map. In the example shown in Figure 2, existing products are enclosed in a frame to indicate that production has ended. The method of displaying end-of-production information is not limited to this; it may be displayed by blinking, or represented by color like a so-called heat map. Furthermore, the tempo of the blinking display and the color tone may be changed according to the end-of-production period to visualize the end-of-production information (procurement risk).

[0048] Furthermore, when displaying parts, the display means 22 can also refer to the storage unit 30 and display the part's lifespan information (for example, how many years or how many times it can be used) along with the stored data about the part (alert function, countdown function). Preferably, the display means 22 issues an alert or notification when the number of spare parts falls below a predetermined number due to use. If the lifespan is expressed in terms of the number of uses, sensors may be installed on existing parts or equipment to measure the number of uses. When displaying, calculations such as day calculations or remaining quantity calculations may be performed by referring to the storage unit 30.

[0049] Furthermore, the display means 22 may display a search site (web page) for parts or equipment (managed by the manufacturer or other users). In this way, the parts management platform functions as a community site. In addition, the display means 22 may display the lowest and highest prices for the sale or rental of parts or equipment within the parts management platform.

[0050] (Management label issuing means 24) When the receiving means 16 receives data about a part from the user terminal 42, the management label issuing means 24 issues data relating to a label printing format that includes information about the part and transmits it to the user terminal 42. This output (issuance) of label data by the management label issuing means 24 may be performed when the part (spare part) is registered (left side of Figure 3), or after the part has been confirmed by the administrator.

[0051] The "data related to the label printing format" is not particularly limited; data stored in the memory unit 30 may be printed on the label, and the end-of-production date may also be displayed on the label to make discontinued products visible. The printed information may also include barcodes or 2D codes. Reading the labels using a tablet, smartphone camera, barcode reader, etc., reduces the burden of inventory management. On the right side of Figure 3, when a user reads a label and notifies the server 10 (parts management platform), the presence and quantity of spare parts are reflected in the parts management platform (physical verification). The date and time of physical verification may also be reflected in the parts management platform and printed on the label. Note that if label reading information is not notified, the display means 22 may be set not to display (i.e., not to reflect in the parts management platform).

[0052] When a labeled part is installed in equipment as an existing part, the label facilitates the management of the existing part. Furthermore, the management label issuing means 24 can also issue label data for existing parts within equipment that have been surveyed by the user.

[0053] (Disclosure method 26) The disclosure means 26 makes data relating to a predetermined part or equipment stored in the memory unit 30 (which may also include user information such as profiles) viewable by a designated person (hereinafter, from the user's perspective, this is also referred to as "disclosure setting"). For example, a "disclosure setting button" may be provided on the parts management platform's website, and by clicking this button on the user terminal 42, a screen displaying data relating to the predetermined part or equipment can be viewed. In this specification, "make viewable" is similar to "display" (including "make display"), and includes not only a state in which the information is actually displayed on the user terminal 42, but also a state in which the information is displayed on the user terminal 42 when a designated display button is pressed on the user terminal 42 using a browser or application, etc. Furthermore, "predetermined part or equipment" refers to parts (including spare parts and existing parts) or equipment that may be made public to third parties, and the user can specify these. That is, the disclosure means 26 can limit the scope of data made viewable in response to instructions from the user who manages the parts or equipment.

[0054] Furthermore, users who allow others to view their own parts or equipment data may set it to be viewable by "designated persons," only by users who have set their profile to public, or only by users belonging to the same group as themselves. In the example shown in Figure 4, spare parts data a1-a3 of user A-1, who belongs to group A, can only be viewed by user A-2, who also belongs to group A. Even if registered on the parts management platform, user B-1, who belongs to group B (different from group A), and unregistered user X cannot view it (dotted line). Similarly, spare parts data b1-b2 of user B-1, who belongs to group B, cannot be viewed by users A-1 and A-2, who belong to group A (different from group B), or unregistered user X. However, user B-1 has set spare parts data b3 to "public" so that anyone can view it without setting "designated persons," so users A-1, A-2, and unregistered user X can view it. It is also possible to set it to "partially public," which requires individual permission for viewing from specific users, such as competitors.

[0055] Furthermore, the disclosure means 26 may provide registered users with a method for making offers to purchase or rent parts or equipment of users who have set their information to "public" (matching function). In other words, users who have set their information to "public" can have the opportunity to sell or rent the parts or equipment they manage. On the other hand, registered users whose information has become viewable through "public settings" can have the opportunity to make offers to purchase or rent parts or equipment through the parts management platform (server 10) of this disclosure. One example of such an offer method is the provision of a website on the parts management platform for users to negotiate directly with each other.

[0056] Disclosure method 26 may further disclose the history of transfers or loans of parts or equipment between users (matching history). That is, users can not only learn about other users' spare parts stockpiles through the parts management platform (server 10), but also learn about the transaction history of parts or equipment they have provided. By making connections between users (between companies) visible in this way, it is possible to provide information to help users determine their trustworthiness when deciding whether to conduct business with them or offer business partnerships, etc.

[0057] (Transmission means 28) The transmission means 28 transmits information relating to the purchase or rental offer to the corresponding user terminal 42 when a purchase or rental offer is made for a part or equipment that has become available for viewing. In other words, the transmission means 28 provides a method for making purchase or rental offers for parts or equipment via the parts management platform, as described above.

[0058] Although the end-of-production tagging means 20 automatically tags parts with end-of-production information, the transmission means 28 may notify the user terminal 42 that new end-of-production information has been tagged or that the end-of-production period is approaching, for the purpose of alerting the user (the same applies to lifespan information).

[0059] <User terminal 42, Manufacturer terminal 54> The user terminal 42 and manufacturer terminal 54 can be composed of industrial computers, personal computers, tablet terminals, mobile terminals, etc., and are not particularly limited. Each user terminal 42 and manufacturer terminal 54 does not need to be the same terminal, and the same operator may send and receive information using different terminals at different times. Furthermore, the operator may be a different person within the organization, as long as they are identified by the same registration information (user ID, manufacturer ID, etc.).

[0060] As shown in Figure 1, the user terminal 42 has a control unit 44, a display unit 46, an operation unit 48, a storage unit 50, and a communication unit 52. Although not shown in Figure 1, the manufacturer terminal 54 has similar components, so its explanation is omitted. The control unit 44 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and controls the various operations of the user terminal 42. The user can input information by operating the operation unit 48, such as a keyboard, while looking at the display unit 46, such as a display (a display operation unit such as a touch panel that integrates the display unit 46 and the operation unit 48 may also be used). The user terminal 42 can store data in the storage unit 50. The configuration and form of the storage unit 50 are the same as those of the storage unit 30. The communication unit 52 connects the user terminal 42 to an external device (such as a server 10) wirelessly or wired, and the user terminal 42 can send and receive information with other user terminals 42 and manufacturer terminals 54 via the communication unit 52.

[0061] [Information Processing Method 1] Next, with reference to Figure 5, the information processing method 1 in the information processing system 1 described above will be explained. The information processing method 1 is a method for linking equipment with parts inventory (i.e., spare parts). In the following explanation, components with the same reference numerals are the same as the components described above, and redundant explanations will be omitted as appropriate. The processing shown below is performed by executing a program stored in the storage unit 30, but the information processing method relating to this disclosure is not limited to this.

[0062] First, the control unit 12 (registration means 14) registers the user who will operate the user terminal 42, which will be the source of data related to parts and equipment (step S10).

[0063] Next, the control unit 12 (reception means 16) receives data related to parts and data related to equipment from the user terminal 42 (step S20). As mentioned above, data for each location may also be received.

[0064] Next, the control unit 12 (storage means 18) associates the received data regarding the parts and equipment and stores it in the storage unit 30 (step S30). Here, the associated data regarding the parts and equipment can be stored in the parts DB 31.

[0065] Next, if a part received as data related to a part is not used in the equipment for which data related to the equipment was received, the control unit 12 (storage means 18) stores the part as a spare part (step S40). In this example, the part can be stored (tagged) as a spare part in the part DB 31 and associated with the equipment.

[0066] Next, the control unit 12 (display means 22) displays a list of data related to the stored spare parts (components) on the user terminal 42 (step S50). Note that the spare parts displayed here may be associated with different equipment.

[0067] Next, the control unit 12 (management label issuing means 24) issues data relating to the label printing format, including the name of the spare part, and transmits it to the user terminal 42 (step S60).

[0068] It should be noted that the above information processing method is merely an example, and the processing flow is not limited to what is described above. For example, after the step of receiving data on parts and equipment from the user terminal 42 (step S20), a management label issuance step (step S60) and a storage and display step (steps S30 to S50) may be performed. Information processing method 1 implements a system (parts management platform) for managing the user's spare parts, thereby allowing the user to enjoy a web service for registering and managing the "spare parts" they wish to manage.

[0069] [Information Processing Method 2] Next, with reference to Figure 6, information processing method 2 in information processing system 1 will be described. Information processing method 2 is a method related to equipment management. Steps S110 to S130 are the same as steps S10 to S30 of information processing method 1, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0070] If, after step S130, the part received as data relating to a part is used in the equipment received as data relating to equipment, the control unit 12 (storage means 18) stores the part as an existing part (step S140).

[0071] Next, the control unit 12 (reception means 16) receives the site plan and equipment installation location for each of the user's locations (step S150).

[0072] Next, the control unit 12 (display means 22) displays a list of existing items for each location on the user terminal 42 as a map (step S160).

[0073] The processing flow is not limited to the above, and the process of receiving site plans and equipment installation locations for each user location (step S150) may be performed after the registration process (step S110) (it is sufficient if it is performed before step S160).

[0074] In another embodiment, in step S150, the control unit 12 (reception means 16) may receive a floor plan and storage location of spare parts for each of the user's locations, and the control unit 12 (display means 22) may display a list of spare parts for each location on the user terminal 42 as a map.

[0075] [Information Processing Method 3] Next, with reference to Figure 7, information processing method 3 in information processing system 1 will be described. Information processing method 3 is a method for tagging products that have reached the end of production. Steps S210 to S230 are the same as steps S10 to S30 of information processing method 1, so their explanation will be omitted. Although the explanation will be omitted, similar processing can be performed on information regarding the lifespan of parts.

[0076] After step S230, the control unit 12 (production end tagging means 20) acquires the production end information of the part, associates the part with the production end information, and stores it in the storage unit 30 (step S240).

[0077] Next, the control unit 12 (display means 22) displays a list of data related to the stored parts on the user terminal 42, and, referring to the storage unit 30, displays on the user terminal 42 that the relevant parts are within a predetermined period before the end of production (step S250).

[0078] Next, the control unit 12 (display means 22) displays a list of data related to the stored parts on the user terminal 42, and also, by referring to the storage unit 30, displays on the user terminal 42 that the corresponding parts have been discontinued (step S260).

[0079] The information processing methods described above are just examples, and the processing is not limited to those mentioned above. For example, if a certain part has already been discontinued, step S250 may not be performed.

[0080] In another embodiment, when the control unit 12 (reception means 16) receives a site plan for each user location and the storage location of spare parts, the control unit 12 (display means 22) displays a list of spare parts on a map on the user terminal 42, and can also refer to the storage unit 30 to highlight data on the map regarding spare parts that have been discontinued (a process combining steps S160 and S260).

[0081] In yet another embodiment, if a part received as data relating to a part is used in equipment received as data relating to equipment, the control unit 12 (storage means 18) can store the part as an existing item. In this case, when the control unit 12 (receiving means 16) receives a site plan for each of the user's locations and the installation location of the equipment, the control unit 12 (display means 22) may display a list of existing items on the user terminal 42 as a map, and at the same time refer to the storage unit 30 to highlight that the relevant existing items are within a predetermined period before the end of production (a process combining steps S160 and S250).

[0082] [Information Processing Method 4] Next, with reference to Figure 8, information processing method 4 in information processing system 1 will be described. Information processing method 4 is a method related to one-click publication and matching. Steps S310 to S340 are the same as steps S10 to S40 of information processing method 1, so their explanation will be omitted.

[0083] After step S340, the control unit 12 (reception means 16) receives data from the user terminal 42 regarding components that may be viewed by a third party (step S350).

[0084] Next, the control unit 12 (public access means 26) makes the data relating to a predetermined component stored in the storage unit 30 accessible to a designated person (step S360).

[0085] Next, if a purchase request is made for a part that has become available for viewing, the control unit 12 (transmission means 28) transmits information related to the purchase request to the corresponding user terminal 42 (step S370).

[0086] Next, the control unit 12 (reception means 16) receives response information regarding the purchase request from the user terminal 42 (step S380).

[0087] Next, the control unit 12 (transmission means 28) transmits the received response information to the user terminal 42 that made the purchase request (step S390).

[0088] The above information processing method is merely an example, and the processing is not limited to those described above. For example, in another embodiment, after step S360, if a request to borrow a part that has become viewable is made, the control unit 12 (transmission means 28) may transmit information relating to the request to borrow to the corresponding user terminal 42.

[0089] In yet another embodiment, in step S350, the control unit 12 (receiving means 16) may receive data of equipment that may be made available to a third party from the user terminal 42, and then, after the control unit 12 (disclosure means 26) makes the data relating to the predetermined equipment stored in the storage unit 30 available to a predetermined person (step S460), if a purchase offer is made for the equipment that has become available for viewing, the control unit 12 (transmission means 28) may also transmit information relating to the purchase offer to the corresponding user terminal 42 (step S470).

[0090] In yet another embodiment, if a request to borrow equipment has been made for equipment that has become viewable after step S460, the control unit 12 (transmission means 28) may transmit information relating to the request to the corresponding user terminal 42.

[0091] In yet another embodiment, after the data relating to a predetermined part or equipment stored in the memory unit 30 has become accessible to a designated person (after step S460, etc.), if a matching offer such as business succession or business partnership is made, the control unit 12 (transmission means 28) can also transmit information relating to the offer to the corresponding user terminal 42. This information relating to the offer is not particularly limited and may include information about business inquiries or confirmation of whether or not the user is interested in matching.

[0092] In the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method relating to this disclosure, which have the above configuration, a receiving means 16, a storage means 18, and a display means 22 are provided. The receiving means 16 receives data relating to equipment parts and data relating to equipment including movable property and fixtures from the user terminal 42. The storage means 18 stores the received data relating to parts and equipment in the storage unit 30, associating them with each other. The display means 22 displays the stored data relating to parts.

[0093] Japanese manufacturing has maintained its competitiveness through high-quality materials and processing technology. Japanese small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have a long history of inheriting advanced technical capabilities, accumulating valuable experience and know-how. This will continue to be a vital asset for Japan in responding to the diversifying needs of the world. However, SMEs face challenges that are difficult to solve individually, leading to situations where business continuity is difficult, forcing them to use equipment for extended periods. However, in addition to equipment obsolescence, inquiries to equipment manufacturers sometimes reveal a lack of parts, with delivery of new parts expected in over a year and a half. Securing and managing spare parts for equipment is a common challenge regardless of business size. To address this challenge, the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method described in this disclosure make it possible to reduce management costs while utilizing existing equipment. As with the parts management platform described above, standardization of the internal management mesh is possible, eliminating inconsistencies in information input and management items across different personnel and departments. The prescribed format also facilitates verification of parts usage history (useful for considering next order quantities and calculating the next budget for parts purchases). Standardizing inventory management allows users to benefit from preventing missed or overlooked orders, streamlining inbound and outbound inventory management, centralizing and accumulating information on managed equipment and parts, building databases, and accumulating failure data. Furthermore, by visualizing information with photos and images, even inexperienced employees can easily manage parts and equipment.

[0094] Furthermore, in the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure, the storage means 18 may store a part as an existing part if the part received as data relating to the part is used in the equipment that received it. In this way, the user can use the data relating to the part as data relating to an existing part and manage the existing part. Also, if a part received as data relating to the part is not used in the equipment that received it, the storage means 18 may store the part as a spare part, and in this way the user can use the data relating to the part as data relating to a spare part and manage the spare part.

[0095] Furthermore, in the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure, a management label issuing means 24 may be provided, which, when the receiving means 16 receives data about a part from the user terminal 42, issues data about a label printing format including information about the part and transmits it to the user terminal 42. By automatically generating labels in this way, inventory management can be made more efficient (inventory management can be done using mobile phones or tablets). In addition, by reading the labels attached to spare parts and recording the date and time of on-site confirmation, spare parts that have not been checked for a long time can be identified, making it possible to visualize procurement risks in advance. Inventory levels can also be optimized.

[0096] Furthermore, in the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure, the receiving means 16 can receive site plans and part location information for each of the user's locations, and the display means 22 can display the location of the parts on a map. More specifically, the receiving means 16 may receive site plans and spare parts storage locations for each of the user's locations, and the display means 22 may display a list of spare parts on a map. Alternatively, the receiving means 16 may receive site plans and equipment installation locations for each of the user's locations, and the display means 22 may display a list of parts stored as existing items (list of existing items) on a map (Figure 2). Such map displays make equipment management (spares, existing items, and equipment) visible. Moreover, even if parts and equipment are managed at each location, the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure can expedite information sharing between multiple locations on a website called a parts management platform, eliminating the need to request and confirm lists via email or telephone.

[0097] Furthermore, the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure may also be provided with a production end tagging means 20 that, upon acquiring production end information for a component, associates the component with its production end information and stores it in a storage unit 30. By associating (tagging) production end information with each component, the procurement risks of spare parts and existing parts become easier to visualize. Production end information makes it easy to decide which parts are no longer needed.

[0098] Furthermore, in the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure, the display means 22 can display end-of-production information along with the stored data on the parts. For example, it can refer to the storage unit 30 to indicate that production has ended. In this way, if end-of-production information is displayed together with the parts data (list display, map display), procurement risks become visible. This helps in making decisions regarding equipment management, such as whether to procure more parts or change the equipment. In addition, the display means 22 may refer to the storage unit 30 to indicate that it is within a predetermined period before the end of production, along with the stored data on the spare parts. In this way, it can also provide a function to warn about procurement risks.

[0099] Furthermore, in the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure, the display means 22 can display information regarding the corresponding lifespan along with the stored data on the parts. Presenting this lifespan information for parts makes it easier to make decisions such as replacing parts, which is useful for equipment management decisions.

[0100] Furthermore, in the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure, a lifespan information tagging means 21 may be provided that, upon acquiring information regarding the lifespan of a component, associates the component with information regarding its lifespan and stores it in a storage unit. The display means 22 can then display the lifespan information along with the stored data about the component. By associating (tagging) lifespan information with each component in this way, it becomes easier to visualize the procurement risks of spare parts and existing parts. If lifespan information can be visualized together with end-of-production information, it can be further useful in making decisions regarding equipment management.

[0101] Furthermore, the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure may also be provided with a means 26 for making data relating to a predetermined part or equipment stored in the storage unit 30 viewable by a predetermined person. Thus, with the parts management platform of this disclosure equipped with the means 26, users do not need to conduct public relations activities themselves, such as setting up a homepage for sales advertising, and can manage and organize inventory with a single click, such as a "public settings button." Asset efficiency can be improved.

[0102] For example, in the manufacturing industry, large quantities of spare parts are either discarded or remain in storage. Large companies aim to secure spare parts to avoid shortages, but in accordance with their internal asset management regulations, spare parts are discarded. Wholesalers and trading companies have spare parts that remain in storage due to ordering errors or sudden order changes. On the other hand, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) dispose of unnecessary items early on due to storage space limitations and management costs. In the case of companies that go out of business, equipment is sold, but most spare parts are discarded. In contrast to these facts, discontinued parts and parts with long procurement timelines (spare parts) can be extremely valuable due to their scarcity. However, despite the difficulty in procuring parts, there has traditionally been no platform to facilitate information sharing between businesses. Furthermore, while Japanese manufacturing has a strong vertical connection in its supply chain with product manufacturers at the top, the inventors believe that solving future challenges requires a system of mutual support through "horizontal connections that cross regions and industries," where resources, strengths, and functions are shared. Therefore, after careful consideration, we have conceived of a parts management platform, a mechanism for mutual support among companies, which is provided in this disclosure and includes 26 means of disclosure. Specifically, the parts management platform will first enable network expansion and community creation. More specifically, it will connect companies (users) across industries and regions, and develop contact points with customers other than existing ones. This will improve the resolution of customer issues and speed up problem identification, verification, and resolution. In addition, it will enable business development based on the utilization of data among companies (users). More specifically, it will enable user matching, equipment upgrade proposals, and provision of equipment data. Furthermore, the parts management platform has the potential to become a foundational infrastructure for the manufacturing industry. More specifically, the parts management platform will provide a mechanism for sharing, outsourcing of parts manufacturing, and joint purchasing, and is expected to be used for joint development, optimization of inter-company collaboration, and disaster recovery support.

[0103] Furthermore, the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure may also include a registration means 14 and a transmission means 28. The registration means 14 registers users who operate a user terminal 42 that receives data on parts and equipment from a receiving means 16. The transmission means 28 transmits information related to the purchase or rental request to the corresponding user terminal 42 when a purchase or rental request is made for a part or equipment that has become viewable. In this way, user registration authentication ensures that parts that become viewable are not merely displayed (published) on the parts management platform, but are guaranteed to be shipped, giving users who make purchase or rental requests peace of mind. In addition, buying, selling, and lending through the parts management platform offers the following advantages: There is a possibility of procuring discontinued or long-lead-time items, which can shorten procurement time and minimize downtime. Unnecessary surplus spare parts can be sold and converted into cash (leading to improved asset efficiency, securing indoor space, and reducing management man-hours). Most registered companies (users) offer items at prices lower than the list price, which is expected to reduce procurement costs. Inventory optimization is also possible through procurement that matches the required quantity (securing the necessary amount internally and selling any surplus on the platform).

[0104] Furthermore, the program, information processing system 1, server (computer) 10, and information processing method related to this disclosure are not limited to the forms or combinations described above, and can be modified in various ways.

[0105] For example, the display means 22 or disclosure means 26 may display or disclose information on similar or alternative parts and equipment on the user terminal 42 or parts management platform based on interactions between users (sending and receiving such as buying and selling, lending and borrowing) and information on parts and equipment managed by the user (so-called recommendation function). Such information can reduce procurement risk as a second opinion, and also provides opportunities for other user terminals 42 or manufacturer terminals 54 to offer sales or rentals.

[0106] Furthermore, the disclosure method 26 may also disclose comments received regarding transactions such as buying, selling, and lending between users (a so-called review and rating function). In this way, reliability and a sense of security regarding transactions can be enhanced.

[0107] Furthermore, the server (computer) 10 (control unit 12) may restrict requests to purchase parts or equipment from specific user terminals 42 (anti-hoarding function). For example, if the number of requests to purchase parts or the number of items requested from a specific user terminal 42 is excessively high, taking into account the manufacturing date of that user's business or managed equipment, the server may set an upper limit on the number of items that can be purchased or prohibit the request from being made. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0108] 1. Information Processing System 10 Servers (Computers) 12 Control Unit 14. Registration Method 16. Reception methods 18 Memory means 20. Methods for tagging products that have been discontinued. 22 Display means 24. Management label issuing means 26. Means of Disclosure 28 Transmission method 30 Storage section 31. Parts Database (DB) 32 Spare Parts Database 34 Existing Products Database 36 Discontinued Products Database 37 Lifespan Information Database 38 Equipment Database 40 Communications Department 42 (42a, 42b…) User terminals 44 Control Unit 42 Display section 48 Control section 50 Storage section 52 Communications Department 54 (54a, 54b…) Manufacturer terminals

Claims

1. A program that causes a computer to function as a receiving means, a storage means, and a display means, The aforementioned receiving means receives data related to equipment parts and data related to equipment including movable property and fixtures from the user terminal. The storage means stores the received data relating to the parts and equipment in the storage unit, The display means is a program that displays data related to stored components.

2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the storage means stores a part as an existing part if the part received as data relating to the part is used in the equipment that received it.

3. The aforementioned computer is further made to function as a means for issuing management labels, The program according to claim 1, wherein the management label issuing means, upon receiving data relating to a part from a user terminal, issues data relating to a label printing format including information about the part and transmits it to the user terminal.

4. The aforementioned receiving means receives floor plans and part location information for each user site. The program according to claim 1, wherein the display means displays the positions of the parts on a map.

5. The aforementioned computer is further made to function as a means for tagging products that have been discontinued. The program according to claim 1 or 4, wherein the discontinued product tagging means acquires discontinued product information for a part and stores the discontinued product information for the part in association with the discontinued product information in a storage unit.

6. The program according to claim 5, wherein the display means displays discontinued information along with data relating to stored parts.

7. The program according to claim 1 or 4, wherein the display means displays information relating to the corresponding lifespan along with data relating to the stored component.

8. The aforementioned computer is further made to function as a means of public access, The program according to claim 1, wherein the disclosure means makes data relating to a predetermined part or equipment stored in the storage unit accessible to a predetermined person.

9. The aforementioned computer is further configured to function as a registration means and a transmission means. The registration means registers users who operate a user terminal that receives data related to parts and data related to equipment from the receiving means. The program according to claim 8, wherein the transmission means transmits information relating to the purchase or rental offer to a corresponding user terminal when a purchase or rental offer is made for a part or equipment that has become viewable.

10. A computer that functions as a receiving means, a storage means, and a display means by executing a program, The aforementioned receiving means receives data related to equipment parts and data related to equipment including movable property and fixtures from the user terminal. The storage means stores the received data relating to the parts and equipment in the storage unit, The display means is a computer that displays data relating to stored components.

11. An information processing method performed by a computer having a control unit, The control unit includes a process of receiving data related to equipment parts and data related to equipment including movable property and fixtures from a user terminal. The control unit performs the step of associating and storing data relating to the received parts and equipment in the storage unit, The control unit performs the step of displaying data related to the stored components, An information processing method equipped with [a specific feature].

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