Processing request support device, processing request support method, and program

Abstract

To make it easier to request cutting services. [Solution] The processing request support device includes an acquisition unit that acquires information about a finished product, including drawing data representing a finished product made using multiple materials purchased by the customer; a parts identification unit that identifies the parts required for the finished product and the size of those parts from the information about the finished product; a materials identification unit that identifies the material from which the part can be obtained from the multiple materials based on the size of the part and material information for each of the multiple materials; a determination unit that determines how to cut the material based on the size of the part and material information for the material; and an output unit that outputs information about the cutting method and candidate prices for the cutting.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a processing request support device and the like.

Background Art

[0002] Customers may purchase materials at a retail store such as a home center and use the materials to make or repair something themselves. In addition, there are cases where customers purchase materials and make custom-made furniture (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, at a retail store such as a home center, there is a service where a store clerk processes materials purchased by a customer, such as cutting. For example, when requesting the cutting of materials, the customer needs to tell the store clerk how to cut the materials. It is difficult for the customer to tell the store clerk how to cut while imagining the finished product.

[0005] An example of the object of the present disclosure is to provide a processing request support device and the like that can facilitate the request for cutting materials.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A processing request support device according to an aspect of the present disclosure an acquisition unit that acquires information regarding a finished product including drawing data representing the finished product created using a plurality of materials purchased by a customer; A component identification means that identifies the parts required for the finished product and the size of those parts from the information obtained about the finished product, A material identification means for identifying the material from which the identified part can be obtained, based on the size of the identified part and material information relating to each of the plurality of materials, A determination means for determining how to cut the identified material based on material information relating to the size and material of the part, An output means that outputs information regarding the method of cutting and candidate fees for the cutting, It is equipped with.

[0007] A processing request support method in one aspect of this disclosure involves at least one computer, We obtain information about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product created using multiple materials purchased by the customer. From the information obtained regarding the finished product, the parts required for the finished product and the sizes of those parts are identified. Based on the size of the identified part and the material information relating to each of the plurality of materials, the material from which the identified part can be obtained is identified from the plurality of materials. Based on the material information relating to the size and material of the part, the method of cutting the identified material is determined. Output information regarding the method of cutting and candidate fees for the cutting. Execute the process.

[0008] A program in one aspect of this disclosure is installed on at least one computer. We obtain information about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product created using multiple materials purchased by the customer. From the information obtained regarding the finished product, the parts required for the finished product and the sizes of those parts are identified. Based on the size of the identified part and the material information relating to each of the plurality of materials, the material from which the identified part can be obtained is identified from the plurality of materials. Based on the material information regarding the size and the material of the component, determine the way of cutting the identified material, Output information regarding the way of cutting and candidates for the fees for the cutting, Execute the process.

[0009] Each program may be stored in a non - transitory computer - readable recording medium. [Effect of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to facilitate the request for cutting materials. [Brief Description of the Drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a processing request support system including a processing request support device. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the processing request support device. [Figure 3] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of information regarding a finished product. [Figure 4] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the material purchased by a customer. [Figure 5] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a purchase history. [Figure 6] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an output screen of a terminal. [Figure 7] It is a flowchart showing an operation example of the processing request support device. [Figure 8] It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the processing request support device. [Figure 9] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an output screen of a terminal. [Figure 10] It is a flowchart showing an operation example of the processing request support device. [Figure 11] It is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the processing request support device. [Figure 12] It is an explanatory diagram showing a hardware configuration example of a computer.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of a processing request support apparatus, a processing request support method, a program, and a non-temporary recording medium recording the program according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. This embodiment does not limit the disclosed technology.

[0013] (First Embodiment) The first embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings regarding the basic functions of the processing request support apparatus.

[0014] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a processing request support system 1 including a processing request support apparatus 10. For example, in a home center or the like, there is a service where a store clerk processes materials purchased by a customer. The materials are not particularly limited, such as wood, plastic sheets, metal sheets, etc. As described above, for example, when requesting the cutting of materials, the customer needs to tell the store clerk how to cut the materials. It is difficult for the customer to tell the store clerk how to cut while imagining the finished product. Therefore, the processing request support apparatus 10 provides information for requesting the cutting processing of the materials purchased by the customer.

[0015] For example, the processing request support system 1 includes a processing request support apparatus 10 and a terminal 11. The processing request support apparatus 10 is connected to the terminal 11 and the like via a communication network.

[0016] For example, terminal 11 is a device that can be operated by users such as customers or store employees. For example, terminal 11 may be a store device or a customer's terminal 11. Store devices may be portable devices or fixed devices. Terminal 11 may be an output device that outputs information from the processing request support device 10, or an input device that inputs information to the processing request support device 10. For example, terminal 11 may have an application program pre-installed that can output information from the processing request support device 10 or send information to the processing request support device 10. For example, terminal 11 may access the website of the processing request support device 10, which is a website, via the communication network NT. The type of terminal 11 is not particularly limited and may include a PC (Personal Computer), smartphone, tablet device, HMD (Head Mounted Display), etc. The number of terminals 11 may be provided for each user, or is not particularly limited.

[0017] The type of communication network is not particularly limited, and may consist of multiple communication networks, such as wired or wireless. The configuration of the communication network to which the processing request support device 10 is connected to the terminal 11, etc., is not particularly limited.

[0018] Furthermore, although it has been explained that the terminal 11 and the processing request support device 10 are different devices, the terminal 11 and the processing request support device 10 may be the same device.

[0019] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the processing request support device 10. The processing request support device 10 comprises an acquisition unit 101, a part identification unit 103, a material identification unit 105, a determination unit 107, and an output unit 111.

[0020] The acquisition unit 101 acquires information about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product created using multiple materials purchased by the customer. The information about the finished product may include, for example, information about the dimensions of the finished product. The information about the finished product may also include information representing the scale of the external shape of the finished product. The information about the finished product may also include information representing the type of finished product. For example, the type of finished product may be the type of item, such as a shelf, chair, or desk.

[0021] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of information 1000 regarding the finished product. In Figure 3, the type of finished product is a shelf. The information 1000 regarding the finished product in Figure 3 includes drawing data representing the finished product. The drawing data includes information about multiple drawings, such as a drawing of the shelf viewed from the front and a drawing of the shelf viewed from the side. For example, the information 1000 regarding the finished product includes information about the height and width dimensions of the shelf viewed from the front.

[0022] Specifically, as an example of the process by which the acquisition unit 101 acquires information 1000 about the finished product, the acquisition unit 101 may acquire information 1000 about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product, from an image captured by an imaging device of a picture representing the finished product. The imaging device may be provided, for example, in the terminal 11. The customer can take a picture of a picture representing the finished product written on paper or the like using the imaging device provided in the terminal 11. Then, the acquisition unit 101 can acquire information 1000 about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product, by extracting the shape and dimensions from the picture representing the finished product contained in the image captured by the imaging device.

[0023] Furthermore, as another example of the acquisition unit 101 acquiring information 1000 about the finished product, the acquisition unit 101 acquires information 1000 about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product created using CAD (Computer Aided Design), etc. Drawing data representing the finished product may be created in a store by customer operation using a terminal 11, etc., and the acquisition unit 101 may acquire information 1000 about the finished product, including the created drawing. Drawing data created in advance by the customer may be uploaded via a website, etc., and stored in a customer database, etc., and the acquisition unit 101 may acquire information 1000 about the finished product, including the drawing, from the customer database.

[0024] Furthermore, as another example of the process by which the acquisition unit 101 acquires information 1000 about a finished product, the acquisition unit 101 may acquire information 1000 about a finished product accepted by the customer from a plurality of pre-prepared pieces of information 1000 about different finished products. In other words, the customer may select the finished product they desire from a plurality of finished products prepared by the store. For example, the output unit 111 may display a selectable drawing of a finished product represented by a plurality of pre-prepared drawing data, and the acquisition unit 101 may acquire information 1000 about a finished product including the selected drawing data.

[0025] The parts identification unit 103 identifies the parts and their sizes required for a finished product from the acquired information 1000 about the finished product. Here, a part may be represented by its shape. For example, the parts identification unit 103 may identify a rectangular plate as a required part. The size of a part refers to its dimensions, such as length, width, and height. Here, if the information 1000 about the finished product includes information about the dimensions of the part, the parts identification unit 103 can use that information to identify the size of the part. Alternatively, if the information 1000 about the finished product includes information representing the type of finished product, the parts identification unit 103 may identify the parts required for the finished product based on the type of finished product. For example, if the type of finished product is a chair, the parts identification unit 103 may identify the parts required for the finished product even if there are missing parts in the drawing data.

[0026] If the component identification unit 103 cannot identify at least one of the component and its size, the output unit 111 may output a request for additional input of information 1000 regarding the finished product. The output method by the output unit 111 is not particularly limited and may include display, audio output, lamp illumination, printing, etc. The output destination by the output unit 111 is not particularly limited and may include terminal 11, printing device, etc., but the terminal 11 will be used as an example for explanation. For example, the output unit 111 may output a request for additional input of information 1000 regarding the finished product to terminal 11. In this case, the output unit 111 may output a request for additional input of the part to be added by highlighting the part to be added in the picture of the finished product.

[0027] The material identification unit 105 identifies the material from which the identified part can be obtained, based on the size of the identified part and material information for each of the multiple materials. Here, the material information may be obtained from the customer's purchase history. For example, the material information may be identified from the receipt when the customer purchased the material.

[0028] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of materials purchased by a customer. In Figure 4, the materials purchased by the customer are material A and material B.

[0029] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a purchase history 1001. The purchase history 1001 includes information such as transaction ID (Identifier), customer ID, purchase date and time, product name, size, and price. According to the purchase history 1001 shown in Figure 5, it is possible to identify that the customer purchased multiple pieces of lumber and the dimensions of each of the pieces of lumber. For example, the dimensions of lumber material A are length ax cm (centimeters), width ay cm, and thickness az cm. For example, the dimensions of lumber material B are length bx cm (centimeters), width by cm, and thickness bz cm.

[0030] As an example of the process by which the material identification unit 105 identifies a material, the material identification unit 105 identifies a material from which a part can be obtained from among multiple materials that correspond to the thickness of the part. Here, the thickness of the part is defined as the shortest dimension. A material that corresponds to the thickness of the part is a material of the same thickness or a material whose thickness difference from the thickness of the part is within a predetermined range. Furthermore, if there are multiple materials from which a part can be obtained from among multiple materials, the material identification unit 105 may prioritize identifying the material with the largest size from among the materials from which a part can be obtained. Furthermore, if there are multiple materials from which a part can be obtained from among multiple materials, the material identification unit 105 may prioritize identifying the material with the smallest size from among the materials from which a part can be obtained.

[0031] The material identification unit 105 may also use combination optimization to determine which part to cut from among multiple materials.

[0032] Some customers may want to use a specific material for a particular part of the finished product. In such cases, the information about the finished product 1000 may include information that identifies the location or part in the finished product where the purchased material is used. The material identification unit 105 then identifies the material specified by the customer as a material from which a part corresponding to a specified part or location in the finished product can be obtained, based on the information about the finished product 1000.

[0033] If the material identification unit 105 cannot identify the material from which the part can be obtained, the output unit 111 may output a message to that effect. The output method by the output unit 111 is not particularly limited and may include display, audio output, lamp illumination, printing, etc. The output destination by the output unit 111 is not particularly limited and may include terminal 11, printing device, etc., but the terminal 11 will be used as an example for explanation. The output unit 111 may also output information about which parts cannot be obtained and the size of those parts as information regarding the purchase of additional materials.

[0034] Here, I have given examples of multiple materials, but the types of materials may be at least partially the same, or they may be different. Also, although I have given examples of multiple materials, if you have purchased only one material, you may use only that one material.

[0035] The determination unit 107 determines how to cut the identified material based on material information regarding the size and material of the part. Specifically, the determination unit 107 only needs to determine the cutting method, which is where and to what length the material should be cut.

[0036] Furthermore, the decision unit 107 may also determine the order in which the parts will be cut out, starting from which position. More specifically, for example, the decision unit 107 may decide to cut out the parts in order from a specific position, such as the edge of the material.

[0037] The output unit 111 outputs information regarding the cutting method and candidate prices for the cutting. The output method of the output unit 111 is not particularly limited and may include display, audio output, lamp illumination, printing, etc. The output destination of the output unit 111 is not particularly limited and may include terminal 11, printing device, etc., but the explanation will use terminal 11 as an example.

[0038] Specifically, for example, the output unit 111 may output information regarding the cutting method, such as cutting location information and drawing data representing the cutting location. The output unit 111 also outputs candidate prices for the cutting. An example of calculating the cutting price will be explained in detail in the second embodiment. The output unit 111 may output the cutting price for each material, or it may output the total cutting price.

[0039] Please note that the final price may not be determined until the stylist actually performs the cut, so the prices listed here are merely estimates.

[0040] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the output screen of terminal 11. The output unit 111 displays a screen on terminal 11 that includes information on how to cut material A and a list of possible cutting fees. The output screen shown in Figure 6 shows that material A is to be cut into three equal parts of yycm. The output screen also shows that the list of possible cutting fees for material A is 300 yen.

[0041] (flowchart) Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the processing request support device 10. The acquisition unit 101 acquires information 1000 about a finished product, including drawing data representing a finished product to be made using multiple materials purchased by the customer (step S101). The part identification unit 103 identifies the parts required for the finished product and the size of those parts from the acquired information 1000 about the finished product (step S102).

[0042] The material identification unit 105 identifies the material from which the identified part can be obtained from the multiple materials, based on the size of the identified part and the material information for each of the multiple materials purchased by the customer (step S103).

[0043] The determination unit 107 determines how to cut the identified material based on material information regarding the size and material of the part (step S104). Then, the output unit 111 outputs information regarding the cutting method and candidate fees for the cutting (step S105), and the processing request support device 10 completes the series of processes.

[0044] In the first embodiment described above, the processing request support device 10 identifies the parts required for a finished product and the sizes of those parts from information about a finished product 1000, which includes drawing data representing a finished product made using multiple materials purchased by the customer. Then, based on the sizes of the identified parts and material information for each of the multiple materials, the processing request support device 10 identifies the material from which the identified parts can be obtained. Based on the size of the parts and the material information for the material, the processing request support device 10 determines how to cut the identified material and outputs information about the cutting method and candidate prices for the cutting. This makes it easier for customers to request material cutting. Furthermore, by presenting candidate prices for the cutting, the processing request support device 10 allows customers to check the estimated price before making a request.

[0045] (Second embodiment) A second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the second embodiment, the calculation of candidate fees will be described in detail. To the extent that the description of the second embodiment does not become unclear, explanations that overlap with the above description will be omitted.

[0046] An example of a processing request support system including a processing request support device may be the same as the example shown in Figure 1. Therefore, the processing request support device 10 shown in Figure 1 may be replaced with a processing request support device 20, and the explanation of an example of a processing request support system including a processing request support device 20 will be omitted.

[0047] Figure 8 is a block diagram showing one example configuration of the processing request support device 20. The processing request support device 20 comprises an acquisition unit 201, a parts identification unit 203, a material identification unit 205, a determination unit 207, a price identification unit 209, and an output unit 211. The processing request support device 20 shown in Figure 8 has the addition of a price identification unit 209 to the functional parts of the processing request support device 10 shown in Figure 2.

[0048] The acquisition unit 201 has the basic functions of the acquisition unit 101 shown in Figure 2. The part identification unit 203 has the basic functions of the part identification unit 103 shown in Figure 2. The material identification unit 205 has the basic functions of the material identification unit 105 shown in Figure 2. The determination unit 207 has the basic functions of the determination unit 107 shown in Figure 2. The output unit 211 has the basic functions of the output unit 111 shown in Figure 2. The acquisition unit 201, part identification unit 203, material identification unit 205, and determination unit 207 perform the same processing as the respective functional units described in the first embodiment, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0049] The price determination unit 209 may also identify candidate prices for the cutting method determined by the decision unit 207.

[0050] For example, the fee determination unit 209 may determine the price of a haircut based on the number of cuts. More specifically, for example, the fee determination unit 209 may determine the price of a haircut so that the price increases with the number of cuts. A table is provided that associates the number of cuts with the price of a haircut, and the fee determination unit 209 can then identify candidate prices from this table that correspond to the number of cuts determined by the method of cutting. Alternatively, for example, the fee determination unit 209 may determine the price of a haircut by range of cuts. For example, the price may be set at xxx1 yen for 1 to 3 cuts, and xxx2 yen for 4 to 8 cuts, and so on.

[0051] In some cases, multiple materials can be cut together. For example, if material A and material B each have a straight cut, material A and material B can be cut simultaneously. In this case, the number of cuts is one. Therefore, the price determination unit 209 determines whether different materials can be cut simultaneously based on the shape of each cut of the multiple materials. Also, if there are three straight cuts in the same material, the number of cuts can be reduced to two by cutting them together. In such cases, the price determination unit 209 may determine the number of cuts based on the number of straight cuts in the same material. Then, the price determination unit 209 determines candidate prices based on the number of cuts.

[0052] The price determination unit 209 may identify candidate cut prices based on the shape of the cut. Examples of cut shapes include straight lines, curves, angles, and grooves. For example, the price determination unit 209 may determine candidate cut prices such that the more complex the shape, the higher the cut price. For example, the price for a straight cut will be lower than that for a curved cut. A table or the like is provided that associates cut shapes with cut prices, and the price determination unit 209 can then identify candidate prices from the table that correspond to the cut shapes specified by the cutting method.

[0053] Furthermore, for example, the price determination unit 209 may identify candidate cut prices based on the size of the cut. For example, the price determination unit 209 may identify candidate cut prices such that the larger the size of the cut, the higher the cut price. The size of the cut may be, for example, the length of the cut. The price determination unit 209 may identify candidate cut prices such that the longer the length of the cut, the higher the cut price. A table or the like is provided that associates the size of the cut with the cut price, and the price determination unit 209 can identify candidate prices from the table that correspond to the shape of the cut specified by the cutting method.

[0054] Furthermore, the price determination unit 209 may identify candidate prices for a haircut by combining at least two of the number of cuts, the shape of the cuts, and the size of the cuts. When the number of cuts and the shape of the cuts are used, the price determination unit 209 identifies candidate prices for haircuts such that the price increases as the number of cuts with complex shapes increases.

[0055] The output unit 211 then outputs information regarding the cutting method and candidate prices for the cutting. If there are multiple price options, the output unit 211 outputs information regarding the cutting method and each of the multiple price options.

[0056] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the output screen of terminal 11. In Figure 9, the output unit 211 displays drawing data on terminal 11 showing how to cut material A and how to cut material B. Since there are two possible cutting charges, cutting charge C1 and cutting charge C2, the output unit 211 displays each of the two possible charges on terminal 11. For example, cutting charge C1 is a possible charge when cutting a part of material A and a part of material B at the same time. For example, cutting charge C2 is a possible charge when cutting material A and material B separately.

[0057] Furthermore, if there are multiple ways to cut, the output unit 211 may output drawing data showing the price and cutting method for each method.

[0058] (flowchart) Figure 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the processing request support device 20. The acquisition unit 201 acquires information about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product to be made using multiple materials purchased by the customer (step S201). The part identification unit 203 identifies the parts required for the finished product and the size of those parts from the acquired information about the finished product (step S202).

[0059] The material identification unit 205 identifies the material from which the identified part can be obtained from the multiple materials, based on the size of the identified part and material information for each of the multiple materials purchased by the customer (step S203).

[0060] The determination unit 207 determines how to cut the identified material based on material information regarding the size and material of the part (step S204). Then, the price determination unit 209 identifies candidate prices for each cutting method (step S205).

[0061] Then, the output unit 211 outputs information about the cutting method and candidate prices for each cutting method (step S206), and the processing request support device 20 completes the series of processes.

[0062] In the second embodiment described above, the processing request support device 20 identifies candidate prices for the method of cutting the material and outputs the candidate prices. The processing request support device 20 may also identify candidate prices based on the number of cuts the material is made. For example, the processing request support device 20 may also identify candidate prices based on the complexity of the material's shape. This allows the price to vary depending on the effort required for cutting. For example, a customer can check in advance the approximate cost of having a store employee cut the material.

[0063] This concludes the description of each embodiment. Furthermore, each embodiment is not limited to the examples described above and can be modified in various ways. Each embodiment may be combined as appropriate. For example, the embodiments may be used in a modified form.

[0064] <Example 1> For example, if there are multiple ways to cut the material, the processing request support device 20 may allow the customer to select the cutting method.

[0065] Figure 11 is a block diagram showing one example configuration of the processing request support device 20. The processing request support device 20 shown in Figure 11 has a receiving unit 213 added to the functional unit of the processing request support device 20 shown in Figure 8.

[0066] For example, the reception unit 213 accepts the customer's selection of the cutting method. The method of acceptance is not particularly limited. Specifically, the reception unit 213 may accept the customer's selection of the cutting method through operation of the input device on the terminal 11. The type of input device is not particularly limited.

[0067] As a specific example, if there are multiple ways to cut, the output unit 211 displays information and price options for each of the multiple cutting methods on the terminal 11, allowing the customer to select the cutting method. The reception unit 213 then accepts the customer's selection of one of the multiple cutting methods based on their operation on the terminal 11. The output unit 211 may then print the selected cutting method and price options. This allows the customer to obtain a printed document containing information and price options for the cutting method they need, even if there are multiple ways to cut. Therefore, the customer can easily request a cut from the staff using this printed document.

[0068] This concludes the explanation of the modified examples. For example, each embodiment and its modified examples may be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, the configuration of the processing request support devices 10 and 20 is not particularly limited. For example, the functional units of the processing request support devices 10 and 20 may be implemented by a single device. Alternatively, for example, each functional unit or database of the processing request support devices 10 and 20 may be implemented by different devices and configured as a system. For example, the functional units of the processing request support devices 10 and 20 may be made up of multiple devices. For example, a system may be realized that includes a database server containing each database and a device having each functional unit. A system may be realized that includes a device equipped with some of the functional units of the processing request support devices 10 and 20 and a device equipped with other parts of the functional units of the processing request support devices 10 and 20. The number of devices is not particularly limited.

[0069] Furthermore, the various pieces of information are examples only, and may include other information or omit some of it. Also, the user interface in each embodiment is an example only, and can be modified in various ways.

[0070] Furthermore, the process of generating information to be displayed on terminal 11 may be performed by output units 111 and 211. Alternatively, this process may be performed by terminal 11. That is, terminal 11 may generate screen information to be displayed on terminal 11 based on data received from processing request support devices 10 and 20, and display the screen based on the screen information.

[0071] (Example of computer hardware configuration) Next, we will describe an example of a hardware configuration when each device, such as the processing request support devices 10 and 20 and the terminal 11, is implemented using a computer.

[0072] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a computer hardware configuration. For example, some or all of each device can be implemented using any combination of computer 80 and programs as shown in Figure 12.

[0073] Computer 80 includes, for example, a processor 801, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 802, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 803, and a storage device 804. Computer 80 also includes a communication interface 805 and an input / output interface 806. Each component is connected, for example, via a bus 807. The number of components is not particularly limited, and each component may be one or more.

[0074] The processor 801 controls the entire computer 80. The processor 801 can be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a PPU (Physics Processing Unit), a TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), a quantum processor, or a combination thereof, and is not particularly limited.

[0075] The computer 80 also includes a ROM 802, a RAM 803, and a storage device 804. The storage device 804 may be a semiconductor memory such as flash memory, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive). For example, the storage device 804 stores the OS (Operating System) program, application programs, and programs according to each embodiment. Alternatively, the ROM 802 stores the application program, programs according to the embodiment, and so on. The RAM 803 is used as the work area of ​​the processor 801.

[0076] The processor 801 also loads programs stored in the memory device 804, ROM 802, etc. Then, the processor 801 executes each process coded in the program. The processor 801 may also download various programs via the communication network NT. Furthermore, the processor 801 functions as part or all of the computer 80. The processor 801 may also execute processes or instructions in the illustrated flowchart based on the program.

[0077] The communication interface 805 is connected to a communication network NT, such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network), via a wireless or wired communication line. The communication network NT may be composed of multiple communication networks NT. This allows the computer 80 to connect to external devices and external computers 80 via the communication network NT. The communication interface 805 manages the interface between the communication network NT and the internal workings of the computer 80. Furthermore, the communication interface 805 controls the input and output of data from external devices and external computers 80.

[0078] Furthermore, the input / output interface 806 is connected to at least one of the input device, output device, and input / output device. The connection method may be wireless or wired. Examples of input devices include keyboards, mice, and microphones. Examples of output devices include display devices, lighting devices (such as lamps), and audio output devices that output sound. Examples of input / output devices include touch panel displays. The input devices, output devices, and input / output devices may be built into the computer 80 or attached to the computer 80 externally. That is, for example, the computer 80 may have input devices such as keyboards and mice. The computer 80 may have output devices such as displays. The computer 80 may also have input devices, output devices, and input / output devices.

[0079] The hardware configuration of computer 80 is an example. Computer 80 may have some of the components shown in Figure 12. Computer 80 may also have components other than those shown in Figure 12. For example, computer 80 may have a drive device. The processor 801 may read programs and data stored on a recording medium mounted on the drive device or the like into RAM 803. Examples of non-temporary tangible recording media include optical discs, flexible discs, magneto-optical discs, and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory.

[0080] Furthermore, the computer 80 may have various sensors (not shown). The type of sensor is not particularly limited. Also, the computer 80 may be equipped with an imaging device capable of capturing images or videos.

[0081] This concludes the description of the hardware configuration of each device. Furthermore, there are various variations in how each device can be implemented. For example, each device may be implemented by any combination of different computers and programs for each component. Alternatively, the multiple components of each device may be implemented by any combination of a single computer and program.

[0082] Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be implemented using application-specific circuits. Alternatively, some or all of the components of each device may be implemented using general-purpose circuits such as FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays). Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be implemented using a combination of application-specific circuits and general-purpose circuits. These circuits may also be a single integrated circuit, or they may be divided into multiple integrated circuits. These multiple integrated circuits may be connected via a bus or the like.

[0083] Furthermore, if some or all of the components of each device are implemented by multiple computers or circuits, these computers or circuits may be centrally located or distributed.

[0084] The processing request support methods described in each embodiment may be implemented by a computer such as a processing request support device 10 or 20.

[0085] Each program described in each embodiment is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as an HDD, SSD, flexible disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or USB memory. Each program is then executed by being read from the recording medium by a computer. Furthermore, each program may be distributed via a communication network NT.

[0086] Each component of the processing request support devices 10 and 20 described above may be implemented using dedicated hardware, such as a computer. Alternatively, each component may be implemented using software. Alternatively, each component may be implemented using a combination of hardware and software.

[0087] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. The structure and details of the present disclosure may include embodiments that apply various modifications that can be grasped by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure may include embodiments that combine or substitute the matters described herein as appropriate. For example, matters described using a particular embodiment may be applied to other embodiments to the extent that they do not cause a contradiction. For example, although several operations are described sequentially in the form of a flowchart, the order in which they are described does not limit the order in which the operations are performed. Therefore, when implementing an embodiment, the order of the operations can be changed to the extent that it does not impair the content.

[0088] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows. However, some or all of the above embodiments are not limited to the following.

[0089] (Note 1) An acquisition means for acquiring information about a finished product, including drawing data representing a finished product created using multiple materials purchased by the customer, A component identification means that identifies the parts required for the finished product and the size of those parts from the information obtained about the finished product, A material identification means for identifying the material from which the identified part can be obtained, based on the size of the identified part and material information relating to each of the plurality of materials, A determination means for determining how to cut the identified material based on material information relating to the size and material of the part, An output means that outputs information regarding the method of cutting and candidate fees for the cutting, A processing request support device equipped with the following features.

[0090] (Note 2) The material identification means prioritizes identifying materials with larger sizes from among the plurality of materials from which the identified part can be obtained. The processing request support device described in Appendix 1.

[0091] (Note 3) The determination means determines the cutting method for the identified parts, starting with the largest parts. A processing request support device as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2.

[0092] (Note 4) The material identification means identifies, from among the plurality of materials, the material from which the specified part can be obtained, which corresponds to the thickness of the specified part. A processing request support device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 3.

[0093] (Note 5) The information relating to the finished product includes information that allows for the identification of the location in which the purchased materials are used in the finished product. A processing request support device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 4.

[0094] (Note 6) A fee identification means for identifying candidate fees for the aforementioned cut, A processing request support device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, further comprising the features described above.

[0095] (Note 7) The aforementioned fee identification means identifies candidate fees based on the complexity of the cut shape. The processing request support device described in Appendix 6.

[0096] (Note 8) The aforementioned fee identification means identifies candidate fees based on the number of cuts. A processing request support device as described in Appendix 6 or Appendix 7.

[0097] (Note 9) At least one computer, We obtain information about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product created using multiple materials purchased by the customer. From the information obtained regarding the finished product, the parts required for the finished product and the sizes of those parts are identified. Based on the size of the identified part and the material information relating to each of the plurality of materials, the material from which the identified part can be obtained is identified from the plurality of materials. Based on the material information relating to the size and material of the part, the method of cutting the identified material is determined. Output information regarding the method of cutting and candidate fees for the cutting. A method for supporting processing requests to execute those processes.

[0098] (Note 10) On at least one computer, We obtain information about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product created using multiple materials purchased by the customer. From the information obtained regarding the finished product, the parts required for the finished product and the sizes of those parts are identified. Based on the size of the identified part and the material information relating to each of the plurality of materials, the material from which the identified part can be obtained is identified from the plurality of materials. Based on the material information relating to the size and material of the part, the method of cutting the identified material is determined. Output information regarding the method of cutting and candidate fees for the cutting. A program that executes a process.

[0099] (Note 11) On at least one computer, We obtain information about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product created using multiple materials purchased by the customer. From the information obtained regarding the finished product, the parts required for the finished product and the sizes of those parts are identified. Based on the size of the identified part and the material information relating to each of the plurality of materials, the material from which the identified part can be obtained is identified from the plurality of materials. Based on the material information relating to the size and material of the part, the method of cutting the identified material is determined. Output information regarding the method of cutting and candidate fees for the cutting. A non-temporary recording medium readable by the computer, which records a program that executes a process.

[0100] Furthermore, some or all of the configurations described in Appendices 2 to 8, which are dependent on Appendice 1 above, may also be dependent on Appendices 9, 10, and 11 in the same way as those described in Appendices 2 to 8. Moreover, not limited to Appendices 1, 9, 10, and 11, some or all of the configurations described as appendices may also be dependent on various hardware, software, various recording means for recording software, or systems, without departing from the embodiments described above. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 1. Processing Request Support System 10, 20 Processing request support device 11 devices 80 Computers 101, 201 Acquisition Department 103, 203 Part Identification Section 105, 205 Material Specification Department 107, 207 Decision Section 111, 211 Output section 209 Fee Specific Section 213 Reception Department 801 Processor 802 ROM 803 RAM 804 Storage device 805 Communication Interface 806 Input / Output Interface 807 Bus 1000 pieces of information 1001 Purchase History NT communication network

Claims

1. An acquisition means for acquiring information about a finished product, including drawing data representing a finished product created using multiple materials purchased by the customer, A component identification means that identifies the parts required for the finished product and the size of those parts from the information obtained about the finished product, A material identification means for identifying the material from which the identified part can be obtained, based on the size of the identified part and material information relating to each of the plurality of materials, A determination means for determining how to cut the identified material based on material information relating to the size and material of the part, An output means that outputs information regarding the method of cutting and candidate fees for the cutting, A processing request support device equipped with the following features.

2. The material identification means prioritizes identifying materials with larger sizes from among the plurality of materials from which the identified part can be obtained. The processing request support device according to claim 1.

3. The determination means determines the cutting method for the identified parts, starting with the parts with the largest size. The processing request support device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The material identification means identifies, from among the plurality of materials, the material from which the specified part can be obtained, which corresponds to the thickness of the specified part. The processing request support device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The information relating to the finished product includes information that allows for the identification of the location in which the purchased materials are used in the finished product. The processing request support device according to claim 1 or 2.

6. A fee identification means for identifying candidate fees for the aforementioned cut, The processing request support device according to claim 1, further comprising:

7. The aforementioned fee identification means identifies candidate fees based on the complexity of the cut shape. The processing request support device according to claim 6.

8. The aforementioned fee identification means identifies candidate fees based on the number of cuts. The processing request support device according to claim 6 or 7.

9. At least one computer, We obtain information about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product created using multiple materials purchased by the customer. From the information obtained regarding the finished product, the parts required for the finished product and the sizes of those parts are identified. Based on the size of the identified part and the material information relating to each of the plurality of materials, the material from which the identified part can be obtained is identified from the plurality of materials. Based on the material information relating to the size and material of the part, the method of cutting the identified material is determined. Output information regarding the method of cutting and candidate fees for the cutting. A method for supporting processing requests to execute those processes.

10. On at least one computer, We obtain information about the finished product, including drawing data representing the finished product created using multiple materials purchased by the customer. From the information obtained regarding the finished product, the parts required for the finished product and the sizes of those parts are identified. Based on the size of the identified part and the material information relating to each of the plurality of materials, the material from which the identified part can be obtained is identified from the plurality of materials. Based on the material information relating to the size and material of the part, the method of cutting the identified material is determined. Output information regarding the method of cutting and candidate fees for the cutting. A program that executes a process.

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