Data Processing System

Abstract

This data processing system enables the wider use of 3D models and 3D data by concealing confidential information through altering the precision of the drawings. [Solution] The data processing system DS has a data processing server 1. The data processing server 1 includes an input unit (operation unit 4, communication unit 7 for receiving) and a control unit 8. The input unit receives input of 3D equipment information EI, which is 3D information about equipment, etc. Here, equipment, etc. is at least one of equipment and lines. The control unit 8 generalizes the 3D equipment information EI and generates processed data PD.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a data processing system that is a system for processing data such as three-dimensional (3D) data.

Background Art

[0002] As an operation simulation system, one described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-97509 (Patent Document 1) is known. This system includes component data acquisition means for acquiring component data of a production facility, three-dimensional model construction means for constructing components as a three-dimensional model based on the acquired component data, operation simulation means for performing operation simulation using the constructed three-dimensional model, and simulation data output means for outputting the result data of the operation simulation.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the above system, at the design stage, in addition to the structure of the building, operation simulations such as the working conditions of workers can be performed using 3D models and 3D data. However, in the above system, the use of 3D models and 3D data is limited to the design stage and the scope of operation. Also, while drawings have various uses depending on accuracy, confidentiality is required. Therefore, the use of drawings has to be limited within a predetermined range in order to suppress leakage of confidential information, and it can only be used within a limited range and cannot be used in a wide range. Therefore, the main purpose of this disclosure is to provide a data processing system that enables the use of 3D models and 3D data in a wider range of applications by concealing confidential information by changing the precision of the drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] This specification discloses a data processing system. This data processing system may include a computer. The computer may include an input unit and a control unit. The input unit may accept input of 3D equipment information, which is 3D information relating to equipment, etc. The equipment, etc. may be at least one of equipment and / or a line. The control unit may generalize the 3D equipment information and generate processed data. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] The main effect of this disclosure is to provide a data processing system that enables the use of 3D models and 3D data in a wider range of applications by concealing confidential information through changes in the precision of the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is an overall block diagram of the data processing system and related elements related to this disclosure. [Figure 2] This is a flowchart illustrating the operation examples of the data processing server, data receiving terminal, DB server, and designer terminal. [Figure 3] This is a flowchart connected to Figure 2. [Figure 4] This graph shows the general relationship between data accuracy and data usage frequency for each application of 3D data in the past. [Figure 5] This figure shows 3D data of a highly accurate piece of equipment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] This figure shows 3D data of equipment with moderate accuracy according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7]This figure shows 3D data of low-accuracy equipment according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] This figure shows an airflow simulation according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] Hereinafter, examples of embodiments relating to this disclosure, along with their modifications, will be described with reference to the drawings as appropriate. Furthermore, this form is not limited to the examples and modifications shown below.

[0009] Figure 1 is an overall block diagram of the data processing system DS and related elements related to this disclosure. The data processing system DS relating to this disclosure includes one data processing server 1. Depending on the interpretation, the data processing system DS may also appropriately include at least one of multiple data recipient terminals 31, one DB server 61, and multiple designer terminals SI. DB stands for database. The designer, in this context, is a system integrator (SIer) that designs and constructs at least one of the factory lines and equipment (hereinafter referred to as "equipment, etc."). For the sake of clarity, the following explanation will primarily focus on one data recipient terminal 31 and one designer terminal SI. Unless otherwise noted, other data recipient terminals 31 and other designer terminal SIs will be the same as those described below. Furthermore, there may be multiple data processing servers 1. If there are multiple data processing servers 1, the functions of one data processing server 1, as described later, may be performed by distributed processing. Also, there may be only one of the data receiving terminal 31 and the designer terminal SI. In addition, there may be multiple DB servers 61. Furthermore, the designer may be someone who only performs design work, an equipment manufacturer, a line builder, a data recipient, or someone else. Furthermore, the designer may be an organization, an employee of an organization, or an individual.

[0010] Data processing server 1, as a data processing server computer, is a non-portable computer capable of executing the data processing program PP. Data processing server 1 is located within a building related to a service organization. A service organization is an organization that provides processed data to data recipients, such as a power company that provides commercial power. However, the service organization does not have to be a power company; it could be, for example, an individual or a group of consultants. The data processing server 1 provides processed data to the data recipient upon request from the data recipient, or voluntarily. Such requests can be made, for example, by sending data request information DA from the data recipient's terminal to the data processing server 1. The data processing server 1 processes 3D data related to factories, lines, equipment, etc., to the extent that confidential information is removed or becomes unintelligible, i.e., generalized, to generate processed data PD, and provides the processed data PD to the data recipient by sending it to the data recipient's terminal 31, etc. The data recipient uses the processed data PD, such as generalized 3D data, received from the service organization for various purposes. 3D data is included, for example, in equipment information EI and equipment-related information ER. Data processing server 1 generalizes equipment information EI and equipment-related information ER. Note that one of equipment information EI or equipment-related information ER may be omitted. When processing data, data processing server 1 accesses the equipment DB 70 of DB server 61 to obtain equipment information EI and related equipment information ER. DB server 61 belongs to the service organization in this case. DB server 61 may be a separate entity related to the service organization (such as a parent company or subsidiary), or it may be a separate entity that is not related. Data recipients vary based on the usage form and purpose of the data. For example, they can be designers, structural analysts, simulation implementers, technology transmitters, technology educators, energy management personnel, remote monitors, safety educators, promotion personnel, etc., who are related or not related to the designer-side terminal SI. Here, the industry type of the data recipient is a manufacturer. The data recipient can be an organization, an employee belonging to an organization, or an individual. Here, the designer belongs to a service organization. The designer can be another person (such as a parent company or a subsidiary) related to the service organization, or another person not related to it. In addition, the data processing server 1 may have portability and can be, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, a notebook personal computer, etc. Also, the data processing server 1 can be a combination of multiple computers connected via a network. Furthermore, the data processing server 1 can be installed in a building related to an organization associated with the service organization, or in other locations such as in a building related to a rental server operation group. Moreover, the industry type of the data recipient is not limited to manufacturers.

[0011] The data processing server 1 has a display unit 2, an operation unit 4, a storage unit 6, a communication unit 7, and a control unit 8.

[0012] The display unit 2 displays information. For example, the display unit 2 is at least one of a display, a lamp, a printer, and an information output terminal. The operation unit 4 receives operations related to information input. For example, the operation unit 4 is at least one of a keyboard, a pointing device, a scanner, and an information input terminal. In addition, the display unit 2 and the operation unit 4 may be integrated by a display with a touch sensor.

[0013] The storage unit 6 stores information. For example, the storage unit 6 is at least one of a memory, a hard disk, an optical disk, and a tape storage. In addition, part or all of the storage unit 6 may be replaced by an online data integration environment connected via the Internet IN. The communication unit 7 communicates information through the Internet IN. For example, the communication unit 7 is a communication device related to at least one of wired and wireless. At least one of the operation in the operation unit 4 and the reception in the communication unit 7 serves as an input unit for inputting information to the data processing server 1. At least one of the display in the display unit 2 and the transmission in the communication unit 7 serves as an output unit for outputting information from the data processing server 1. In addition, the input of information by the input unit may be an input from the operation unit 4 such as a keyboard or a scanner based on at least one of handwritten materials and materials displayed on the screen of the portable information terminal, or may be an input from a portable or non-portable USB flash drive through the operation unit 4 which is an information input terminal. The output of information by the output unit may be an output as materials on paper by a printer as an example of the display unit 2, may be an output by display on the screen of the portable information terminal, or may be an output to a portable or non-portable USB flash drive through the display unit 2 which is an information output terminal.

[0014] The control unit 8 controls the display unit 2, the operation unit 4, the storage unit 6, and the communication unit 7. For example, the control unit 8 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The data processing program PP is stored in the storage unit 6 and executed by the control unit 8. The storage unit 6 includes a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium. The data processing program PP has a function of operating data processing. The data processing program PP describes a group of instructions for exerting the functions described later.

[0015] In addition, within the storage unit 6, a 3D factory simulation FS which is a 3D space of a virtual factory for simulation of facilities and the like can be constructed based on the execution of the data processing program PP. 3D is three-dimensional. The 3D factory simulation FS uses 3D data to construct virtual equipment models, or in other words, models of equipment, within the memory unit 6, and then uses a computer to simulate the operation of the equipment within the factory. The simulated operation of the equipment includes the operation of at least one of the lines and the equipment, and may include production volume, production time, worker movements, equipment movements, energy consumption, and CO2 emissions.

[0016] Furthermore, the memory unit 6 can store equipment information EI, which is information related to factory equipment, etc., that forms elements of the 3D factory simulation FS, and equipment-related information ER, which is information created from equipment information EI. Of the equipment information EI, the parts related to 3D are 3D equipment information, and the parts related to 2D are 2D equipment information. Similarly, of the equipment-related information ER, the parts related to 3D are 3D equipment-related information, and the parts related to 2D are 2D equipment-related information. The 3D equipment information and 3D equipment-related information become virtual equipment data within the 3D factory simulation FS. The equipment information EI and equipment-related information ER are obtained here from the equipment DB 70 of the DB server 61. Furthermore, at least one of the equipment information EI and equipment-related information ER does not need to include 2D data. Also, either the equipment information EI or the equipment-related information ER may be omitted.

[0017] The equipment information EI in the equipment DB70 is based on 3D data TD stored in the library within the memory of the designer-side terminal SI, MES information MS also stored in the same memory, and independently collected information. MES stands for Manufacturing Execution System. Independently collected information includes, for example, at least one of the following: information provided by equipment manufacturers, financial institutions, businesses, catalogs, manuals, specifications, etc., and information obtained through interviews at the manufacturing site, etc. At least one of the MES information MS and independently collected information may be omitted. The DB server 61 receives 3D data TD and MES information MS from the designer terminal SI and uses them to generate equipment information EI.

[0018] The 3D data TD, which forms the basis of the equipment information EI, is 3D data of the equipment configuration, etc., that can be used in the 3D factory simulation FS.

[0019] Furthermore, the MES information MS, which forms the basis of the equipment information EI, includes, for example, some or all of the following types of information: (1) Production plan information (2) Product Information (3) Work instruction information (4) Inventory management information (5) Manufacturing history information (6) Quality control information (7) Equipment operation information (8) Real-time data (9) Production performance information (10) Energy consumption information

[0020] Production planning information is planning information that shows which products will be manufactured, when, and on which line, and includes, for example, manufacturing schedule information and production instruction information. Product information refers to information about a product, including, for example, product design information and bill of materials (BOM). Work instruction information consists of at least one of the following: information regarding work procedures for each manufacturing process, and information regarding instructions for workers. Inventory management information includes at least one of the following: inventory information for raw materials, intermediate products, and finished products, as well as tracking information for incoming and outgoing goods. Manufacturing history information includes at least one of the following: manufacturing lot, serial number, and traceability information of the raw materials used. Quality control information includes at least one of the following: the results of quality inspections, the occurrence of defective products, and quality-related reports. Equipment operation information includes at least one of the following: information on the operating status of machinery and equipment, maintenance history, and failure information. Real-time data is process data such as temperature, pressure, and humidity, obtained from at least one of a sensor and / or an IoT device. Production performance information includes at least one of the following: actual production volume, operating hours, and worker work records. Energy consumption information is data relating to at least one of the amount of energy consumed and / or the efficiency of the energy used in the manufacturing process.

[0021] The equipment-related information ER created in the DB server 61 from the equipment information EI includes, for example, some or all of the following types of information. The equipment-related information ER may also be created in, or in conjunction with, the DB server 61, at least one of the data processing server 1, the data recipient terminal 31, and the designer terminal SI. (11) Energy consumption information (12)CO2 emissions information (13) Product delivery information (14) Product unit price information

[0022] Energy consumption information refers to information on the amount of energy used, including electricity, for each piece of equipment or its components. This information may be rated values, actual operating values, other values, or a combination of these. CO2 emission information refers to CO2 emissions, including electricity, for each piece of equipment or facility. This information may be obtained by referring to catalog values ​​already entered, or by calculating it from energy consumption information. Product delivery information refers to the delivery dates for products manufactured using equipment and other facilities. Product unit price information refers to the unit price information for products manufactured using equipment, etc.

[0023] Furthermore, the memory unit 6 can store simulated production volume information AP, simulated energy consumption information EU, simulated CO2 emissions information CE, and simulated cost information CS, which are obtained by executing a 3D factory simulation FS or a 2D simulation evaluation. Production volume simulation information AP is information that shows the production volume of lines, equipment, etc., calculated through simulation. The EU Energy Consumption Simulation Information is information that shows the energy consumption of equipment and other devices, calculated based on simulations. The simulated CO2 emission information CE is information that shows the simulated CO2 emissions of equipment, etc. Cost simulation information (CS) is information that shows the estimated cost of equipment and other items.

[0024] In addition, the storage unit 6 can store data application information DA and processed data PD. Data application information (DA) may include information about equipment, such as equipment specifications. Furthermore, part or all of the memory unit 6 may be shared with other memory units through an online data integration environment or the like. Also, part or all of the memory unit 6 may be located online, that is, it may be formed in a communicable external storage on the cloud. Such data sharing and online access can be similarly applied to other memory units.

[0025] Data processing server 1 is connected via Internet IN to a data receiving terminal 31, which is a computer on the data receiving side and a computer on the data receiving side, and is capable of communication with the data processing service user. The data receiving terminal 31 is a non-portable computer capable of executing the data receiving program FP. However, the data receiving terminal 31 may be portable. Furthermore, data processing server 1 may be connected to the data receiving terminal 31 by means other than Internet IN. For example, considering the confidentiality of information, it may be connected by a dedicated line or closed network, or by physical means such as a USB flash drive or printed materials, or by a combination of these, including Internet IN. Similarly, connections between other servers and terminals may also be made by means other than Internet IN. The data recipient terminal 31 is located within the building related to the data recipient. However, the data recipient terminal 31 may be located elsewhere. The data recipient terminal 31 has a display unit 32 similar to the display unit 2, an operation unit 34 similar to the operation unit 4, a storage unit 36 ​​similar to the storage unit 6, a communication unit 37 similar to the communication unit 7, and a control unit 38 similar to the control unit 8.

[0026] The communications unit 37 is connected to the data processing server 1 via the Internet IN. The data recipient terminal 31 is capable of executing the data recipient program FP. The data recipient program FP is stored in the storage unit 36 ​​and executed by the control unit 38. The storage unit 36 ​​includes a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium. The data recipient program FP has the function of operating the data recipient terminal 31. The data recipient program FP contains a set of instructions that perform the functions described later.

[0027] The storage unit 36 ​​is capable of storing data application information DA and processed data PD.

[0028] Data processing server 1 is connected to DB server 61, which acts as the designer's computer, via the Internet IN, enabling communication. DB server 61 is a non-portable computer capable of executing the designer's program EP. However, DB server 61 may be portable. Furthermore, the designer may be someone who only performs design work, an equipment manufacturer, a data recipient who requests data, or someone else entirely. DB server 61 is located within the building belonging to the designer. However, DB server 61 may be located elsewhere. The DB server 61 has a display unit 62 similar to the display unit 2, an operation unit 64 similar to the operation unit 4, a storage unit 66 similar to the storage unit 6, a communication unit 67 similar to the communication unit 7, and a control unit 68 similar to the control unit 8.

[0029] The communications unit 67 is connected to the data processing server 1 via the Internet IN. The DB server 61 is capable of executing the designer program EP. The designer program EP is stored in the storage unit 66 and executed by the control unit 68. The storage unit 66 includes a non-temporary computer-readable storage medium. The designer program EP has the function of operating the DB server 61. The designer program EP contains a set of instructions that perform the functions described later.

[0030] The memory unit 66 is capable of storing equipment information EI and equipment-related information ER. In the memory unit 66, the equipment information EI and equipment-related information ER are constructed as the equipment DB 70, which is a database related to the equipment. Since the equipment DB 70 is located outside the data processing server 1, it can be considered an external database. Furthermore, a 3D factory simulation FS may be constructed in the memory unit 66. The 3D factory simulation FS may be executed by the control unit 68, which executes the designer-side program EP, using the equipment information EI and related equipment information ER in the equipment DB 70 as appropriate.

[0031] The DB server 61 is connected to the designer-side terminal SI, which acts as the designer-side computer, via the Internet IN, enabling communication. The designer-side terminal SI is a non-portable computer capable of executing designer-side programs. A DB server 61 is provided for each SIer. However, some or all of the designer-side terminal SI may be portable. The designer's terminal SI is located within the building related to the SIer. However, the designer's terminal SI may be located elsewhere. The designer-side terminal SI has a display unit similar to the display unit 2, an operation unit similar to the operation unit 4, a storage unit similar to the storage unit 6, a communication unit similar to the communication unit 7, and a control unit similar to the control unit 8.

[0032] The communication unit of the designer-side terminal SI is connected to DB server 61 via Internet IN. Furthermore, the communication unit of the designer-side terminal SI is connected to data processing server 1 via Internet IN. The designer-side terminal system (SI) is capable of executing designer-side programs. These programs are stored in the memory of the designer-side terminal SI and executed by its control unit. The memory of the designer-side terminal SI includes a non-temporary, computer-readable storage medium. The designer-side programs have the functionality to operate the designer-side terminal SI. The designer-side programs contain a set of instructions that perform the functions described below.

[0033] The memory unit of the designer-side terminal SI can store 3D data (TD) and MES information (MS). 3D data (TD) and MES information (MS) are updated daily by the designers, who are the system integrators (SIers). The designer-side terminal SI accesses the DB server 61 at a predetermined timing and transmits updated 3D data TD and MES information MS related to the equipment, etc., from the communication unit of the designer-side terminal SI. The control unit 68 of the DB server 61, which receives at least one of the 3D data TD and MES information MS via the Internet IN and the communication unit 67, updates the equipment DB 70 based on the received information. The predetermined timing may be when there are updates to at least one of the 3D data TD and MES information MS that exceed a predetermined threshold, or every predetermined time, or every predetermined date and time, or a combination of these, or any other timing. In this way, the equipment DB70 is updated based on the 3D data TD and MES information MS related to each designer, and the contents of the equipment DB70 are appropriately aggregated and maintained. Furthermore, a 3D factory simulation FS may be built in the memory unit of the designer-side terminal SI. The 3D factory simulation FS may be executed by the control unit of the designer-side terminal SI that executes the designer-side program, using 3D data TD, etc., as appropriate.

[0034] Figures 2 and 3 are flowcharts illustrating examples of the operation of the data processing server 1, the data receiving terminal 31, the DB server 61, and the designer terminal SI. If the data recipient terminal 31 has data it wishes to receive, it accepts the input of data request information DA from the data recipient's representative and transmits the data request information DA to the data processing server 1 in order to receive the data provision service. The data request information DA includes a data recipient ID, which is identification information indicating the data recipient, and data type information indicating the type of data. The data processing server 1 stores the data application information DA in the storage unit 6 and starts processing the provision of data to the data recipient. Alternatively, the data processing server 1 may spontaneously start processing the provision of data to the data recipient based on input from the operation unit 4 or other sources.

[0035] The control unit 8 of the data processing server 1 obtains information related to at least one of the factories, lines, and equipment related to the type of data to be provided to the data recipient by accessing the corresponding equipment information EI and equipment-related information ER in the equipment DB 70 (step S1). The control unit 8 then determines whether the information is confidential and copyrighted data (step S2). The control unit 8 may also determine whether there are restrictions under laws and regulations other than copyright-related laws, or whether there are other restrictions.

[0036] If the control unit 8 is NO in step S2, it proceeds to step S6. On the other hand, if the answer in step S2 is YES, the control unit 8 executes steps S3 to S5.

[0037] In step S3, the control unit 8 performs data generalization. In other words, the control unit 8 removes or simplifies all or important parts of the confidential and copyrighted data, making the confidential and copyrighted data generalizable and processing the data in a state where there are no problems with sharing. Furthermore, the control unit 8 processes the data to convert it to match the general-purpose library data of the 3D factory simulation FS. In addition, the control unit 8 processes the data to become digital data, i.e., NFTs, which are non-forgery certificates of authenticity and certificates of ownership. Note that NFT conversion may be performed on either the certificate of authenticity or the certificate of ownership, but not both.

[0038] Next, in step S4, the control unit 8 converts the processed data to the external database (external DB) equipment DB 70 to match the format of the equipment DB 70 as appropriate and uploads it. That is, the control unit 8 transmits the processed data to the DB server 61 via the communication unit 7, Internet IN, and communication unit 67, after converting it to the appropriate new format. The control unit 68 of the DB server 61 stores the data in the equipment DB 70 in the storage unit 66. All of the following can be treated as processed data (PD): general-purpose data before NFT conversion, general-purpose data after NFT conversion, and general-purpose data after NFT conversion and conversion. The Equipment DB70 here includes the Equipment DB, which is a database related to equipment, and the Line DB, which is a database related to lines. The Equipment DB includes 3D equipment data and 2D equipment data. The Line DB includes 3D line data and 2D line data. Furthermore, at least one of the 2D equipment data and the 2D line data may be omitted.

[0039] Furthermore, in step S5, the control unit 8 refers to other data in the equipment DB 70 and searches for data relating to a layout design similar to the line or factory related to the data to be provided. If such data exists, it takes that similar data into consideration. Step S5 may be omitted.

[0040] Then, in step S6, the control unit 8 determines, depending on the type of data to be provided to the data recipient, whether 3D visualization is necessary for the equipment, lines, etc. related to the data type, and whether visualization of moving objects such as workers and automated guided vehicles (AGVs) is necessary. 3D visualization allows for a concrete understanding of the equipment, or lines including the equipment, related to the data type without the need for actual construction. Furthermore, visualization of movement makes it possible to understand the actions of moving objects, and data is provided with appropriate deployment (quantity, placement, etc.) of workers, AGVs, etc. The terms "factory," "line," and "equipment" used here refer to the type of data provided, but they may also refer to items unrelated to the type of data provided.

[0041] If the answer in step S6 is YES, the control unit 8 performs a 3D factory simulation FS related to the type of data to be provided to the data recipient (step S7).

[0042] In the 3D factory simulation FS, equipment information EI and related equipment information ER are used. Here, the equipment information EI and related equipment information ER are obtained by the data processing server 1 from the equipment DB 70 of the DB server 61. In the equipment DB 70, generalized data is stored together with the data before generalization, and the control unit 8 uses the generalized equipment information EI and related equipment information ER. For example, if the data type is a new installation within an existing factory, including a first piece of equipment and a second piece of equipment designed by a different designer than the first piece of equipment, the control unit 8 accesses the DB server 61 to obtain equipment information EI and related equipment information ER for the line, at a general-purpose level suitable for the application. The 3D data TD and MES information MS for generating the equipment information EI and related equipment information ER for the first piece of equipment are provided from the designer's terminal SI related to the designer of the first piece of equipment. The 3D data TD and MES information MS for generating the equipment information EI and related equipment information ER for the second piece of equipment are provided from the designer's terminal SI related to the designer of the second piece of equipment. Furthermore, the equipment-related information ER may be formed in the data processing server 1 from the equipment-related information EI received from the DB server 61, etc. The equipment-related information ER formed in the data processing server 1 may be added to the library of the 3D factory simulation FS.

[0043] The control unit 8 constructs factories and lines related to the type of data desired by the data recipient or deemed suitable for the data recipient within a virtual three-dimensional space, using various information obtained from the DB server 61. Then, the control unit 8 determines the layout, overall structure, and number of workers of the factory, lines, equipment, and workers through calculations using the 3D factory simulation FS built in the memory unit 6 (step S8). After that, the control unit 8 moves the process to step S11.

[0044] On the other hand, if the answer in step S6 is NO, the control unit 8 performs a 2D simulation evaluation (step S9) and constructs the flow of the factory, line, equipment, etc. by calculation (step S10). 2D refers to two dimensions. The control unit 8 executes a 2D simulation based on the data processing program PP. Even in the 2D simulation, the control unit 8 can refer to the generalized equipment information EI and equipment-related information ER in the equipment DB70. Subsequently, the control unit 8 moves the process to step S11.

[0045] Then, the control unit 8 performs a production volume evaluation (step S11). Specifically, the control unit 8 calculates the production volume per unit period (e.g., 8 hours) based on the model by analyzing the operation or flow of a virtual line in the 3D factory simulation FS, and generates production volume simulation information AP. It also performs evaluations related to the production volume, such as determining whether the calculated production volume is greater than or less than a predetermined threshold, or determining whether the production volume belongs to a first section, a second section, etc., which are divided by multiple thresholds (stepwise evaluation). The calculated production volume and its evaluation are stored in the memory unit 6. Furthermore, various calculation results, judgment results, etc., are stored in the memory unit 6 as appropriate, unless otherwise specified.

[0046] Furthermore, the control unit 8 performs energy usage evaluation, CO2 emission evaluation, and cost evaluation (step S12). Energy usage evaluation can also be called an evaluation of energy efficiency. The control unit 8 generates simulated energy usage information EU by analyzing the operation or flow of virtual lines, etc., in the 3D factory simulation FS, and performs evaluations related to energy usage, such as determining whether the energy usage is greater than or less than a predetermined threshold. In this evaluation, energy usage information from equipment-related information ER is mainly used. In CO2 emission evaluation, the control unit 8 simulates CO2 emissions from a line, etc., by analyzing the operation or flow of a virtual line, etc., in a 3D factory simulation FS, and generates simulated CO2 emission information CE. It also performs evaluations related to CO2 emissions, such as determining whether the CO2 emissions are greater than or below a predetermined threshold. In this evaluation, the CO2 emission information in the equipment-related information ER is mainly used. In cost evaluation, the control unit 8 simulates the cost of a line, etc., by analyzing the operation or flow of a virtual line, etc., in the 3D factory simulation FS, generates cost simulation information CS, and performs cost-related evaluations, such as determining whether the cost is greater than or less than a predetermined threshold, or in stages. The equipment DB 70 is also referenced as appropriate in the cost evaluation.

[0047] Then, the control unit 8 moves to step S13, and based on the evaluation in steps S11 and S12, outputs processed data PD, which is the processed data, in order to utilize the data for various purposes depending on the type of data provided. The output of the processed data PD is, for example, transmission to the data recipient terminal 31. In this case, the processed data may be displayed on the display unit 32 or printed on the data recipient terminal 31. The processed data may also be output by delivering a printed document from the data processing server 1, or by having a service organization representative deliver it to the data recipient representative.

[0048] Applications of processed data (PD) include, for example, productivity improvement, safety assurance, education, technology transfer, talent acquisition, loan credit assessment, subsidy eligibility assessment, line design, structural analysis, factory simulation, digital twin, energy management, remote monitoring, and promotion (PR). Figure 4 is a graph showing the general relationship between data accuracy and data usage frequency for each application of 3D data prior to the filing of this application. As shown in Figure 4, the promotional data with the lowest data accuracy is used most frequently, followed by the data with the next lowest data accuracy used for technology transfer, technical education, and safety education, which are used at a high to moderate rate. The data with the highest data accuracy used for digital twins, structural analysis, and factory simulations is used at a moderate to low rate, while the line design data with the highest data accuracy is used at the lowest rate, similar to the structural analysis data. In other words, traditionally, data with high accuracy has been used less frequently and in limited applications, resulting in a situation where high-accuracy data, in particular, remains underutilized and idle. One factor contributing to this situation is that high-accuracy data often possesses confidentiality and copyright restrictions due to its precision. In light of this situation, if high-accuracy data is made generalizable on data processing server 1, the restrictions imposed by confidentiality and copyright can be suppressed or removed, allowing high-accuracy data that was previously used infrequently to be utilized.

[0049] The data processing server 1, the data recipient terminal 31, and the DB server 61 can repeat the above process as appropriate each time data is provided.

[0050] Such a data processing system (DS) produces the following effects: In other words, the data processing system DS has a data processing server 1. The data processing server 1 comprises an input unit (operation unit 4, communication unit 7 for receiving) and a control unit 8. The input unit receives input of 3D equipment information EI, which is 3D information about equipment, etc. Here, equipment, etc. is at least one of equipment and lines. The control unit 8 generalizes the 3D equipment information EI and generates processed data PD. Therefore, a data processing system is provided that converts 3D models and 3D data, which have at least one of confidentiality and copyright protection, into those that do not have at least one of confidentiality and copyright protection, thereby making them usable in a wider range of applications.

[0051] Furthermore, the control unit 8 generalizes the 3D equipment information EI by omitting or simplifying some or all of it. In addition, the control unit 8 generalizes the 3D equipment information EI by converting it into general-purpose library data for the 3D factory simulation FS. Therefore, data generalization becomes easier. In addition, the data processing server 1 is further equipped with an output unit (display unit 2, communication unit 7 for transmission), and the output unit outputs the processed data PD. Therefore, generalized data is provided to data recipients more easily. Furthermore, equipment and facilities are used for manufacturing products. Therefore, the generalization of manufacturer data, which is more readily compatible with 3D equipment information (EI), will be effectively implemented.

[0052] Furthermore, the input and output units include a communication unit 7. The communication unit 7 can communicate with a data recipient terminal 31, which is a terminal on the data recipient side that receives the processed data PD. The control unit 8 transmits the processed data PD to the data recipient terminal 31. Thus, the provision of generalized processed data PD is made even easier through communication. Furthermore, the control unit 8 acquires 3D equipment information EI from the equipment DB 70. In addition, the 3D equipment information EI is generated from at least one of the 3D data TD and MES information MS related to the equipment. Therefore, the management, updating, and organization of the 3D equipment information EI for generating the processed data PD becomes easier.

[0053] Furthermore, the data processing system DS may have the following modifications as appropriate, in addition to the modifications described above. In other words, some or all of the data processing server 1, data receiving terminal 31, DB server 61, and designer terminal SI in the data processing system DS may be connected to each other via a dedicated line, closed network, etc., rather than via the Internet IN; in short, they only need to be connected via a communication network. Furthermore, from the standpoint of ensuring sufficient data security, data input and output may be performed by physical means such as USB flash drives or printed materials instead of communication. Furthermore, each step in the example operation (flowchart) of the data processing server 1, data receiving terminal 31, DB server 61, and designer terminal SI may be replaced with other steps of substantially similar content, divided into multiple steps of substantially similar content, at least two of them may be combined, or their order may be changed as appropriate. Furthermore, at least one of the distinctions and elements related to various types of information can be modified in various ways depending on the ease of processing, etc. [Examples]

[0054] More specific embodiments based on the embodiments of the present disclosure described above will be explained below. Furthermore, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described below. Depending on how this disclosure is interpreted, an embodiment may become a comparative example that does not conform to the embodiments of this disclosure, or a comparative example may become an embodiment.

[0055] In this embodiment, the control unit 8 of the data processing server 1 collects, converts, and classifies 3D data of manufacturing equipment, lines, etc., according to their accuracy. Figure 5 shows high-precision 3D data related to a certain piece of equipment. Figure 6 shows 3D data of moderate precision related to the equipment in Figure 5. Figure 7 shows 3D data of low precision related to the equipment in Figure 5.

[0056] The highly accurate 3D data of the equipment shown in Figure 5, i.e., high-precision equipment 3D data, includes not only 3D data of the equipment's exterior but also 3D data of all the internal components of the device, containing detailed information about the inside of the equipment and thus offering a high degree of confidentiality. The control unit 8 removes the internal 3D data of the equipment from the high-precision equipment 3D data and creates medium-precision equipment 3D data, as shown in Figure 6, as processed data PD. The medium-precision equipment 3D data includes only the external data of the equipment and can be used for layout verification, etc., but its confidentiality is lower compared to the high-precision equipment 3D data. In other words, the control unit 8 generalizes the high-precision equipment 3D data to generate medium-precision equipment 3D data. The control unit 8 converts the medium-precision equipment 3D data to a format that conforms to the general-purpose library format used in 3D simulations. Furthermore, the control unit 8 approximates the medium-precision equipment 3D data into simple shapes such as rectangles and circles, thereby creating low-precision equipment 3D data, i.e., low-resolution equipment 3D data, as a separate processed data PD, as shown in Figure 7. The low-precision equipment 3D data contains only simplified data of the outside of the equipment, further reducing its confidentiality. In this way, the low-precision equipment 3D data makes the high-precision equipment 3D data more generalizable, and 3D data is created in which confidential information is concealed. In other words, the control unit 8 generalizes the high-precision equipment 3D data to generate low-precision equipment 3D data. The control unit 8 converts the low-precision equipment 3D data to conform to the format of a general-purpose library in 3D simulation.

[0057] High-precision equipment 3D data, along with medium-precision and low-precision equipment 3D data, are stored as general-purpose library data in the Equipment DB70. This data is stored in association with information indicating the accuracy level (e.g., high, medium, low) and application. The accuracy level and application information are examples of tag information, which describes the properties of the 3D data. The accuracy level can also be considered a generalization level. By storing 3D data using tag information, necessary data can be retrieved more quickly and used in a less omissionly manner for appropriate applications.

[0058] The following sections will explain examples of how to use general-purpose 3D data for various applications.

[0059] Low-resolution 3D data of equipment is used in education, to understand equipment characteristics, and to assess safety. The simplified shapes in the low-resolution 3D data facilitate an understanding of basic concepts and functions.

[0060] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 8, low-resolution 3D data of the equipment is used as simulation data for simulating airflow inside the room where the equipment is planned to be installed. In airflow simulations, even low-precision 3D equipment data can adequately simulate and analyze airflow.

[0061] For safety applications, both medium-precision and high-precision 3D equipment data are used in combination. Using moderately accurate 3D data of the equipment, the safety of the work environment around the equipment is evaluated, and worker movement and equipment placement are simulated, allowing for the design of a safer work environment. Furthermore, high-precision 3D data of the equipment can be used to understand the safety of the equipment itself and the potential for its deterioration. For example, the detailed internal structure of the equipment can be understood, identifying areas where safety may be compromised and countermeasures to address such compromises, thereby raising workers' safety awareness. Note that high-precision 3D data of the equipment will be output only to the extent permitted for its use, and the same applies hereafter.

[0062] For promotional purposes, medium-resolution 3D data of the equipment is provided and used for creating promotional videos, brochures, and other materials related to the equipment and the products manufactured by it. Because the external shape of the equipment is visible in the medium-resolution 3D data, it is possible to visually communicate the size of the equipment and products, as well as their installation image. Furthermore, for company promotion and brochure creation purposes, low-resolution 3D data of equipment is provided and used.

[0063] For simulation purposes, high-to-medium accuracy 3D data of equipment is used to simulate production lines and other systems. This 3D data is used to verify the layout of equipment within the line and to improve production efficiency.

[0064] In the context of technology transfer, high-precision 3D equipment data is used for technology transfer among engineers. High-precision 3D equipment data contains detailed information about the equipment's interior, contributing to an understanding of its structure and operating principles. For example, in equipment maintenance and troubleshooting, a detailed understanding of the device's internal structure is facilitated by high-precision 3D equipment data.

[0065] In structural analysis applications, high-precision 3D data of equipment is used for detailed analysis, and strength and durability are evaluated based on detailed information about the inside of the equipment.

[0066] 3D data of equipment and other facilities is stored while retaining both the pre- and post-update versions of the 3D data each time an update, such as a change or addition of information, is made. In other words, the version of the 3D data is managed. Therefore, the update history of the 3D data of equipment and other facilities can be tracked, and the latest 3D data can always be used. Furthermore, if access to high-precision equipment 3D data is restricted, and only those with the necessary permissions can access it, high-precision equipment 3D data will be properly managed. In addition, generalized 3D data can be shared with others, and sharing promotes collaborative development and technological exchange.

[0067] Furthermore, the accuracy is not limited to three levels (high, medium, and low); it may be two levels, or even four or more levels. For example, between the medium and high accuracy levels mentioned above, a 3D model with additional 3D data for the equipment's control panel, display, etc., added to the 3D data for the equipment's external shape may be included.

[0068] Thus, in this embodiment, high-precision 3D data of equipment is made generalizable and provided as processed data (PD), making it usable for a variety of applications. Furthermore, general-purpose 3D data containing highly confidential information will become more freely accessible, and when referenced during the design of similar equipment, it will result in more efficient design compared to when the data is not referenced. [Explanation of symbols]

[0069] 1. Data processing server (computer) 2. Display unit (output unit) 4. Control Unit (Input Unit) 7. Communication section (input section, output section) 8. Control Unit 31. Data recipient terminal 61. DB Server 70. Equipment Database EI・Equipment information DS (Data Processing System) MS··MES Information PD (Post-Processing Data) PP (Personal Data Processing Program) SI (Systems Integrator) - Designer's Terminal TD...3D data (of equipment, etc.)

Claims

1. A data processing system having a computer, The aforementioned computer comprises an input unit and a control unit. The input unit receives input of 3D equipment information, which is 3D information relating to equipment, etc., where equipment, etc., is at least one of equipment and / or a line. The control unit generalizes the 3D equipment information and generates processed data. A data processing system characterized by the following features.

2. The control unit generalizes the 3D equipment information by omitting or simplifying some or all of it. The data processing system according to feature 1.

3. The control unit generalizes the 3D equipment information by converting it into general-purpose library data for 3D simulation. The data processing system according to feature 1.

4. The aforementioned computer further includes an output unit, The output unit outputs the processed data. The data processing system according to feature 1.

5. The aforementioned equipment is for the purpose of manufacturing products. The data processing system according to feature 1.

6. The input unit and the output unit include a communication unit. The communication unit is capable of communicating with the data recipient terminal, which is the terminal of the data recipient that receives the processed data. The control unit transmits the processed data to the data recipient terminal. The data processing system according to feature 4.

7. The control unit obtains the 3D equipment information from the equipment database. The data processing system according to feature 1.

8. The aforementioned 3D equipment information is generated from at least one of the 3D data and MES information relating to the equipment. The data processing system according to feature 1.

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