Molding Management System

Abstract

To provide a molding management system that allows for the rapid interpretation of trends in changes in actual values ​​indicated by each piece of actual value information. [Solution] A molding management system that includes an information processing device and manages the production of products by an injection molding device, wherein the information processing device acquires cycle data from the injection molding device for each cycle, which includes, as cycle-related information obtained in accordance with the execution of a cycle, actual value information indicating actual values ​​for each of N types of actual values ​​controlled by the injection molding device, and first date and time information indicating the date and time acquired from the injection molding device, and in response to a first operation received, displays a change trend information display image on the display unit, which associates the actual value information with one of a plurality of types of change trend information indicating the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, for each of the one or more specified actual value information from the N actual value information included in the cycle data, and N is an integer of 2 or more.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a molding management system.

Background Art

[0002] Research and development have been conducted on technologies for managing the production of products in a production process including an injection molding process of products by an injection molding apparatus.

[0003] Here, a technique for displaying a trend graph for each value of a plurality of types of quantities controlled by an injection molding apparatus is known (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Here, in the technology as described in Patent Document 1, as the number of types of quantities controlled by the injection molding apparatus increases, the number of trend graphs also increases, and as a result, it may be difficult to quickly read the tendency of the change in the value of the quantity from the trend graphs.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present disclosure is a molding management system that includes an information processing device that is communicably connected to a terminal device, and manages the production of a product in a production process that includes an injection molding process of a product by an injection molding apparatus, wherein the information processing device acquires cycle data from the injection molding apparatus for each cycle, which includes, as cycle-related information obtained in accordance with the execution of an injection molding cycle by the injection molding apparatus, actual value information indicating the actual value for each of N types of actual values ​​controlled by the injection molding apparatus, and first date and time information indicating the date and time acquired from the injection molding apparatus, and in response to a first operation received, displays a change trend information display image on a display unit which, for each of the N actual value information included in the cycle data, associates the actual value information with one of a plurality of types of change trend information indicating the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, and N is an integer of 2 or more. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the configuration of the molding management system 1. [Figure 2] This is a diagram showing an example of image P1. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the criteria for determining which of the five types of change trend information indicates the trend of each actual value. [Figure 4] This figure shows an example of how detailed information is displayed when a selection operation is performed on icon I11, which is displayed in area R1. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of how detailed information is displayed when a selection operation is performed on icon I41, which is displayed in area R4. [Figure 6] This is a diagram showing an example of image P4. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of image P4, where change trend information is displayed in correspondence with the actual value information contained in each cycle data. [Figure 8]This diagram illustrates card-type images that the information processing device X displays for each piece of actual value information in response to the third change trend display operation. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device X. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device X. [Figure 11] This diagram shows an example of the processing flow performed by the information processing device X in response to an received operation. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] <Embodiment> The embodiments of this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0009] <Overview of the Molding Management System> First, an overview of the molding management system according to the embodiment will be described.

[0010] The molding management system according to the embodiment manages the production of products in a production process that includes the injection molding process of products by an injection molding apparatus. The molding management system includes an information processing device. The information processing device is connected to a terminal device for communication. The information processing device also acquires cycle data from the injection molding apparatus for each cycle, which includes cycle-related information obtained in accordance with the execution of the injection molding cycle by the injection molding apparatus, including actual value information showing the actual value for each of N types of actual values ​​controlled by the injection molding apparatus, and first date and time information indicating the date and time acquired from the injection molding apparatus. Then, in response to the first operation received, the information processing device displays a change trend information display image on the display unit, which associates the actual value information with one or more of the specified actual value information from the N actual value information included in the cycle data, and displays the actual value information with one of a plurality of types of change trend information showing the trend of change of the actual value indicated by the actual value information. However, N is an integer of 2 or more. This allows the molding management system to quickly read the trend of change of the actual value indicated by each actual value information.

[0011] The configuration of the molding management system according to this embodiment and the processing performed by the server of the molding management system will be described in detail below. In this embodiment, if one piece of information X1 and another piece of information X2 are different pieces of information, the type of information X1 is treated as different from the type of information X2. That is, in this embodiment, if a piece of data contains multiple pieces of information that are different from each other, it means that the data contains multiple types of information.

[0012] <Configuration of the molding management system> The configuration of the molding management system according to the embodiment will be described below, using molding management system 1 as an example.

[0013] Figure 1 shows an example of the configuration of the molding management system 1.

[0014] The molding management system 1 is a type of Manufacturing Execution System (MES). For example, the molding management system 1 includes one or more managed devices 10, an information processing device 20, and a server 30. However, the molding management system 1 may be configured to omit some or all of the one or more managed devices 10. Also, the molding management system 1 may be configured to include the server 30 but not the information processing device 20. Furthermore, the molding management system 1 may be configured to include the information processing device 20 but not the server 30. In addition, in the molding management system 1, the information processing device 20 may be configured integrally with the server 30. Below, as an example, a case in which the molding management system 1 includes multiple managed devices 10 as one or more managed devices 10 will be described. Also, below, as an example, a case in which the molding management system 1 includes both the information processing device 20 and a server 30 separate from the information processing device 20 will be described. At least one of the information processing device 20 and the server 30 is an example of an information processing device.

[0015] Each of the plurality of managed devices 10 included in the molding management system 1 is a device managed by the molding management system 1. In FIG. 1, for the sake of convenience of explanation, each of these plurality of managed devices 10 is denoted by the same reference numeral. However, some or all of these plurality of managed devices 10 may be devices of different types from each other. Among these plurality of managed devices 10, at least one injection molding device for performing injection molding of a production product using a resin such as plastic is included. The injection molding device 11 shown in FIG. 1 is an example of such an injection molding device. Note that among these plurality of managed devices 10, an injection molding device for performing metal powder injection molding (MIM; Metal Injection Molding) of a production product may be included. Hereinafter, for the sake of convenience of explanation, injection molding of a production product using a resin such as plastic will be simply referred to as injection molding. Further, hereinafter, an injection molding device for performing injection molding of a production product using a resin such as plastic will be simply referred to as an injection molding device. Also, at least one injection molding device included in the plurality of managed devices 10 may be a device for performing injection molding using a material other than resin and metal. In addition to the injection molding device, the plurality of managed devices 10 include, for example, peripheral equipment of the injection molding device and the like. The peripheral equipment of the injection molding device is, for example, a material supply device, a transfer device, a cleaning device, a sintering device, etc., but is not limited thereto. Here, the material supply device is a device that supplies the material used by the injection molding device for injection molding of the production product to the injection molding device. The cleaning device is a device that transfers the production product injection-molded by the injection molding device. The cleaning device is a device that cleans the production product injection-molded by the injection molding device. The sintering device is a device that sinters the production product after being cleaned by the cleaning device.

[0016] The molding management system 1 manages the production of products in a production process including an injection molding process of products by injection molding machines included in a plurality of managed devices 10. Here, the injection molding machines included in the plurality of managed devices 10 may have any configuration as long as they can produce products by injection molding. In the following, for convenience of explanation, a process in which an injection molding machine performs injection molding of a product once will be described as a cycle. Also, in the following, for convenience of explanation, a cavity in a mold attached to an injection molding machine will be described as a cavity. That is, the injection molding machine performs injection molding of a product by injecting a material into a cavity in a mold attached to the injection molding machine and applying pressure to the material in the cavity.

[0017] Here, one or more injection molding machines included in the plurality of managed devices 10 include an extrusion part that extrudes the material used for injection molding of a product into a cavity in a mold attached to the injection molding machine in the injection molding process. The extrusion part is, for example, a screw that rotates in a cylinder and moves back and forth in the cylinder. Note that the extrusion part may be a member that moves back and forth in the cylinder by hydraulic pressure, a linear actuator, or the like instead of a screw. The material is extruded from the injection port of the cylinder toward the cavity in the mold in accordance with the forward movement of the extrusion part in the cylinder. In the following, for convenience of explanation, the extrusion part included in the injection molding machine will be described as a screw.

[0018] Furthermore, one or more injection molding machines included in the multiple controlled devices 10 are equipped with M detection units. M can be any integer greater than or equal to 2. The M detection units detect quantities controlled by the injection molding machine in each cycle. The quantities controlled by the injection molding machine in each cycle are, for example, some or all of the following, but are not limited to, screw position, screw rotation speed, injection speed, injection holding pressure, cycle time, metering time, machine temperature, mold temperature, etc. For the sake of explanation, in the following, the quantities detected by each of the M detection units attached to one or more injection molding machines included in the multiple controlled devices 10 will simply be referred to as detected quantities. The injection speed is the speed at which the injection molding machine injects material into the cavity in the mold using the screw. The injection holding pressure is the pressure inside the mold held by the screw. The cycle time is the time required to execute one cycle. The metering time is the time required for metering in a cycle. The machine temperature is the temperature of the injection molding machine. The mold temperature is the temperature inside the mold. Here, the detection unit that detects a certain amount among the M detection units attached to a certain injection molding apparatus is, for example, a sensor that detects the amount, but is not limited to this. The M detection units may also include a detection unit that detects the quality of the product. This is because the quality of the product is also controlled by the injection molding apparatus in each cycle. In this case, the detection unit is, for example, a device that includes an imaging unit capable of imaging the product and detects the quality of the product, but is not limited to this. Also, in this case, for example, the value of the amount of the quantity indicating the quality of the product detected by the detection unit is, for example, one of a predetermined set of values ​​arranged in descending order of quality, from highest to lowest, but is not limited to this.

[0019] The information processing device 20 acquires various types of data, such as cycle data, injection molding condition data, and operating status history data, from each of the one or more injection molding machines included in the multiple managed devices 10. For the sake of simplicity, the following explanation will describe an example where two types of data, cycle data and injection molding condition data, are acquired by the information processing device 20 from each of the one or more injection molding machines. The information processing device 20 acquires these two types of data independently. Therefore, in this example, the timing at which these two types of data are acquired by the information processing device 20 will differ, unless intentionally synchronized, except in cases of accidental coincidence.

[0020] The information processing device 20 acquires cycle data from each of the one or more injection molding machines included in the multiple managed devices 10, cycle by cycle. More specifically, the information processing device 20 acquires cycle data from each of the one or more injection molding machines each time a cycle is completed. For the sake of explanation, below, the cycle data acquired when a certain cycle is completed will be referred to as the cycle data of that cycle. Also, for the sake of explanation, below, the cycle that has been completed when a certain cycle data is acquired will be referred to as the cycle of that cycle data.

[0021] The cycle data obtained from an injection molding machine in a given cycle contains multiple types of information. Specifically, the cycle data includes multiple cycle-related information obtained in accordance with the execution of the cycle by the injection molding machine, machine identification information that identifies the injection molding machine, and first date and time information indicating the date and time the data was obtained from the injection molding machine to the information processing device 20. However, the machine identification information is, for example, an ID (Identifier) ​​that identifies the injection molding machine, but it may also be other information that can identify the injection molding machine, such as an IP (Internet Protocol) address assigned to the injection molding machine. The first date and time information may also be a timestamp or other information indicating the date and time. In addition to the multiple cycle-related information, the cycle data may also include other information. Furthermore, the machine identification information may be included in the cycle data as one of the multiple cycle-related information. Below, as an example, the case in which the machine identification information is included in the cycle data as one of the multiple cycle-related information will be described.

[0022] The cycle data acquired from an injection molding machine in a given cycle includes multiple cycle-related pieces of information, in addition to machine identification information that identifies the injection molding machine, N pieces of actual value information. N can be any integer greater than or equal to 2. Each of the N pieces of actual value information represents one or more actual values ​​for each detected quantity controlled by the injection molding machine. Here, each of the one or more actual values ​​for a given detected quantity represents the waveform characteristics that show the temporal change in the value of the detected quantity, and is not limited to, for example, the minimum value, maximum value, mean, variance, standard deviation of the detected quantity, the start value of the period during which the detected quantity was detected, the end value of the period, etc. For example, the actual values ​​for injection speed, which is an example of a detected quantity, are not limited to, but include the maximum injection speed (the maximum value of the injection speed) and the average injection speed (the average value of the injection speed). Also, for example, the actual values ​​for injection holding pressure, which is an example of a detected quantity, are not limited to, but include the maximum injection holding pressure (the maximum value of the injection holding pressure) and the average injection holding pressure (the average value of the injection holding pressure). Furthermore, examples of actual values ​​for screw position, which are examples of detected quantities, include the injection end position, which is the screw position when material injection is completed in the injection molding process of a cycle, and the VP switching position, which is the screw position when switching from speed control, which controls the screw position while maintaining a constant injection speed, to pressure control, which controls the screw position while maintaining a constant injection holding pressure, but are not limited to these. In addition, the actual value for a certain detected quantity may be the value of that detected quantity itself. For example, the actual value for cycle time, which is an example of a detected quantity, is the value of the cycle time itself. In addition, one or more actual values ​​for a certain detected quantity can be said to be values ​​controlled by the injection molding machine, since that detected quantity is a quantity controlled by the injection molding machine.

[0023] Furthermore, the cycle-related information included in the cycle data acquired from a certain injection molding machine in a given cycle may include, in addition to machine identification information that identifies the injection molding machine and N actual value information, M time-series information. Each of the M time-series information represents the time series of one of the M detected quantities. Note that if the cycle-related information includes M time-series information, the cycle-related information may not include N actual value information. This is because the information processing device X can calculate the actual value indicated by each of the N actual value information from the M time-series information. In this case, the M time-series information is treated as a substitute for the N actual value information. That is, in this case, the actual value information that indicates one or more actual values ​​for a certain detected quantity in the information processing device X is time-series information that indicates the time series of the detected quantity. Below, as an example, we will explain the case in which the cycle-related information includes M time-series information along with N actual value information.

[0024] Furthermore, the multiple cycle-related information items included in the cycle data acquired from a certain injection molding machine in a given cycle may include other information. This other information may include, but is not limited to, some or all of, operating status information, production quantity information, etc. Here, the operating status information included as cycle-related information in the cycle data is information indicating the operating status of the injection molding machine. Also, the production quantity information included as cycle-related information in the cycle data is information indicating the number of products injected and molded by the injection molding machine in that cycle.

[0025] The cycle data described above can be distinguished by a combination of device identification information and first date and time information. However, if only one injection molding machine is connected to the information processing device 20, the cycle data may not include device identification information. This is because, in this case, each cycle data can be distinguished solely by the first date and time information.

[0026] When the information processing device 20 acquires certain cycle data, it stores the acquired cycle data and also outputs the acquired cycle data to the server 30. In this way, the information processing device 20 can also store the acquired cycle data in the server 30.

[0027] Furthermore, the information processing device 20 acquires injection molding condition data from each of the one or more injection molding devices included in the multiple managed devices 10, each time injection molding conditions are set for an injection molding device.

[0028] Here, the injection molding condition data acquired from a certain injection molding apparatus is information that associates multiple injection molding condition information items indicating the injection molding conditions set in the injection molding apparatus, apparatus identification information that identifies the injection molding apparatus, and second date and time information indicating the date and time the data was acquired from the injection molding apparatus to the information processing device 20. However, the apparatus identification information is, for example, an ID that identifies the injection molding apparatus, but it may also be other information that can identify the injection molding apparatus, such as an IP address assigned to the injection molding apparatus. The second date and time information may also be a timestamp or other information that indicates the date and time. The injection molding condition data may also include other information in addition to the multiple injection molding condition information items, the apparatus identification information, and the second date and time information. Furthermore, the apparatus identification information may be included in the injection molding condition data as one of the multiple injection molding condition information items. Below, as an example, we will describe the case in which the apparatus identification information is included in the injection molding condition data as one of the multiple injection molding condition information items.

[0029] The injection molding condition data obtained from a certain injection molding apparatus contains multiple injection molding condition information entries, which include apparatus identification information to identify the injection molding apparatus, as well as M target value information entries. Each of these M target value information entries indicates one or more target values ​​in the control of each detected quantity by the injection molding apparatus. Therefore, the target value information that indicates one or more target values ​​for a certain detected quantity is associated with that detected quantity. The method for associating the detected quantity with the target value information may be a known method or a method to be developed in the future. The reason why the injection molding condition data includes M target value information as injection molding condition information is that in each cycle, the injection molding apparatus controls the detected quantity so that the value of the detected quantity matches the target value of the detected quantity. The reason why there is one or more target values ​​for each detected quantity is that there may be multiple target values ​​that bring each detected quantity closer to the target value in the control by the injection molding apparatus in each cycle. For example, the injection speed, which is an example of a detected quantity, changes in multiple stages in the injection molding process of each cycle. In such cases, there will be multiple target values ​​for the detected quantity. The target value information for a given detected quantity represents one or more of these target values. Therefore, the injection molding condition data includes the same number of target value pieces as the number of detection units attached to the injection molding apparatus. For the sake of explanation, each of the one or more target values ​​for a given detected quantity will be referred to as the target value corresponding to that detected quantity. Therefore, for the sake of explanation, the detected quantity will be referred to as the detected quantity corresponding to the one or more target values.

[0030] Furthermore, the injection molding condition data obtained from a certain injection molding apparatus may contain, in addition to apparatus identification information and M target value information, other information. This other information may include, but is not limited to, abnormality judgment condition information associated with each of the target values ​​set as injection molding conditions in the injection molding apparatus. Here, abnormality judgment condition information associated with a certain target value is information that indicates the abnormality judgment condition that the value of the detected quantity satisfies when no abnormality occurs in the value of the detected quantity, in the control where the injection molding apparatus matches the value of the detected quantity to the target value. The method for associating the target value with the abnormality judgment condition information may be a known method or a method to be developed in the future. Also, the abnormality judgment condition may be any condition that the value of the detected quantity satisfies when no abnormality occurs in the value of the detected quantity in the control.

[0031] The injection molding condition data described above can be distinguished by a combination of device identification information and second date and time information. However, if only one injection molding device is connected to the information processing device 20, the injection molding condition data may not include device identification information. This is because, in this case, each injection molding condition data can be distinguished solely by the second date and time information.

[0032] When the information processing device 20 acquires injection molding condition data, it stores the acquired injection molding condition data and outputs the acquired injection molding condition data to the server 30. This allows the information processing device 20 to also store the acquired injection molding condition data in the server 30. Here, the information processing device 20 associates injection molding condition data, which indicates the injection molding conditions set in a certain injection molding device during a given cycle, with the cycle data acquired from the injection molding device during that cycle. This association method may be a known method or a method to be developed in the future. Through this association, at least one injection molding condition data is associated with each cycle data. Below, as an example, the case where one injection molding condition data is associated with each cycle data will be described.

[0033] Furthermore, the information processing device 20 displays various images based on injection molding-related data stored in the information processing device 20 on the display unit of a terminal device that is communicatively connected to the information processing device 20, in response to a request from the terminal device. Here, these images include GUIs (Graphical User Interfaces), icons, windows on the OS (Operating System), etc. Below, as an example, we will describe the case in which the information processing device 20 is communicatively connected to the terminal device 40, as shown in Figure 1. In this embodiment, the process related to the login of the information processing device 20 by the terminal device 40 is a known process, so we will omit the explanation. Also, for the sake of explanation, below, when we describe the information processing device 20 receiving an operation from the terminal device 40 via an image displayed on the terminal device 40, we will simply refer to the information processing device 20 receiving an operation. That is, below, when we say that the information processing device 20 performs a certain process in response to an received operation, we mean that the information processing device 20 performs that process in response to an operation received from the terminal device 40 via an image displayed on the terminal device 40.

[0034] The information processing device 20 is, for example, a workstation, a desktop PC (Personal Computer), a notebook PC, etc., but is not limited to these. The information processing device 20 is connected to each of the multiple managed devices 10 in a communicative manner via wired or wireless communication. The communication network connecting the information processing device 20 to each of the multiple managed devices 10 is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) within the facility where the multiple managed devices 10 are installed, but is not limited to this. The communication network may also be other communication networks such as the Internet or a mobile communication network.

[0035] Server 30 stores cycle data acquired by information processing device 20. For example, if server 30 acquires certain cycle data from information processing device 20, it stores the acquired cycle data.

[0036] Furthermore, the server 30 stores injection molding condition data acquired by the information processing device 20. For example, if the server 30 acquires certain injection molding condition data from the information processing device 20, it stores the acquired injection molding condition data.

[0037] Furthermore, in response to a request from a terminal device that is communicatively connected to the server 30, the server 30 displays various images based on data stored in the server 30 on the display unit of the terminal device. This data may be cycle data, injection molding condition data, both of these types of data, or other data. Here, the image refers to a GUI, icon, window on the OS, etc. Below, as an example, we will describe the case where the server 30 is communicatively connected to the terminal device 40, as shown in Figure 1. In this embodiment, the process related to the terminal device 40 logging into the server 30 is a known process, so we will omit the explanation. Also, for the sake of explanation, below, when we describe the server 30 receiving an operation from the terminal device 40 via an image displayed on the terminal device 40, we will simply refer to the server 30 receiving an operation. That is, below, when we say that the server 30 performs a certain process in response to an received operation, we mean that the server 30 performs that process in response to an operation received from the terminal device 40 via an image displayed on the terminal device 40.

[0038] As described above, in the molding management system 1, both the information processing device 20 and the server 30 display various images based on stored data on the display unit of the terminal device 40 in response to the received operation. For the sake of convenience in the following explanation, unless it is necessary to distinguish between the information processing device 20 and the server 30, they will be collectively referred to as the information processing device X. The display unit is, for example, the display of the terminal device 40, a display device connected to the terminal device 40 in a communicative manner, etc., but is not limited to these. In the following explanation, as an example, the case in which the display unit is the display of the terminal device 40 will be described. Also, for the sake of convenience in the following explanation, the act of displaying a certain image on the display unit will be referred to as "displaying the image."

[0039] Here, the information processing device X, in response to the received operation, displays a change trend information display image that associates the actual value information with one of several types of change trend information that indicate the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, for each of the one or more actual value information pieces specified from the N actual value information pieces included in the cycle data. There are at least three types of change trend information. For example, if there are three types of change trend information, each of the three types of change trend information will show one of the following trends: increase, stability, or decrease. There may also be at least five types of change trend information. For example, if there are five types of change trend information, each of the five types of change trend information will show one of the following trends: rapid increase, gradual increase, stability, gradual decrease, or rapid decrease. Below, as an example, the case where there are five types of change trend information will be described. Therefore, below, as an example, the case where each of these five types of change trend information shows one of the following trends: rapid increase, gradual increase, stability, gradual decrease, or rapid decrease will be described.

[0040] For example, in response to the received first change trend information display operation, the information processing device X displays image P1, which is an example of a change trend information display image. More specifically, when the information processing device X receives the first change trend information display operation, it selects one or more actual value information from N actual value information, and for each of the selected one or more actual value information, it determines which of the five types of change trend information indicates the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information. After making such a determination, the information processing device X displays image P1, which is an example of a change trend information display image, according to the determination result. Figure 2 is a diagram showing an example of image P1. Image P1 displays regions associated with each of the five types of change trend information. Specifically, image P1 displays five regions, region R1 to region R5. Note that the first change trend information display operation is an example of the first operation.

[0041] Before explaining regions R1 to R5, we will first describe how the information processing device X determines which of the five types of change trend information the trend of change in actual values ​​indicated by the actual value information corresponds to. For the sake of explanation, this determination will be referred to as trend determination below. As an example of how the information processing device X performs trend determination, we will explain how it determines which of the five types of change trend information the trend of change in maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information corresponds to. For the sake of explanation, this trend determination will be referred to as trend determination X3 below. For example, the information processing device X performs trend determination X3 based on the latest cycle data and past cycle data. Specifically, the information processing device X calculates a value based on the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the maximum injection velocity information contained in past cycle data. The calculated value is the value used to perform trend determination X3. In other words, the information processing device X determines, based on the magnitude of the calculated value and a predetermined threshold, which of the five types of change trend information indicates the trend of change in the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information.

[0042] The calculated values ​​may include, but are not limited to, the difference, rate of change, derivative, or difference from a moving average based on the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the maximum injection velocity information contained in past cycle data. For example, when calculating the difference between the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the maximum injection velocity information contained in past cycle data, the information processing device X calculates the difference between the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data. For the sake of explanation, this difference will be referred to as the first calculated value below. Furthermore, for example, when calculating a rate of change based on the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the maximum injection velocity information contained in past cycle data, the information processing device X calculates the rate of change by dividing the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data by the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately prior to the latest cycle data. For the sake of explanation, this rate of change will be referred to as the second calculated value below. Furthermore, for example, when calculating a differential value based on the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the maximum injection velocity information contained in past cycle data, the information processing device X calculates a differential value by dividing the difference between the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data by the difference between the date and time indicated by the first date and time information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data. For the sake of explanation, this differential value will be referred to as the third calculated value below.Furthermore, for example, when calculating the difference between the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the moving average based on the maximum injection velocity information contained in past cycle data, the information processing device X calculates the difference between the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the average of the maximum injection velocities indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in each of the predetermined number of cycle data sets, excluding the most recent cycle data set, that have been acquired by the information processing device X most recently, as the difference from the moving average. For the sake of explanation, in the following, this difference from the moving average will be referred to as the fourth calculated value. Note that the predetermined number can be any number, two or more, for example, five, but is not limited to this. For example, the information processing device X performs trend determination X3 using at least one of the first to fourth calculated values.

[0043] For example, when the information processing device X performs a trend determination X3 using the first calculated value, it determines which of the conditions included in the pre-set determination conditions for the first calculated value is satisfied by the first calculated value. These determination conditions include, for example, five conditions from condition 1 to condition 5 below.

[0044] Condition 1: The value must be equal to or greater than the first threshold. Condition 2: The value is less than the first threshold, and is greater than or equal to the second threshold, which is smaller than the first threshold. Condition 3: The value is less than or equal to the third threshold, which is smaller than the second threshold, and also greater than the fourth threshold, which is smaller than the third threshold. Condition 4: The value must be below the fourth threshold. Condition 5: The value does not satisfy any of the conditions 1 through 4. That is, it is below the second threshold and above the third threshold.

[0045] The information processing device X determines that the trend in the change of the maximum injection velocity is a rapid increase if the first calculated value satisfies condition 1. Furthermore, the information processing device X determines that the trend in the change of the maximum injection velocity is a gradual increase if the first calculated value satisfies condition 2. Furthermore, the information processing device X determines that the trend in the change of the maximum injection velocity is a gradual decrease if the first calculated value satisfies condition 3. Furthermore, the information processing device X determines that the trend in the change of the maximum injection velocity is a rapid decrease if the first calculated value satisfies condition 4. Furthermore, the information processing device X determines that the trend in the change of the maximum injection velocity is stable if the first calculated value satisfies condition 5.

[0046] Furthermore, the information processing device X accepts the first to fourth thresholds by accepting predetermined operations and stores information indicating each of the accepted first to fourth thresholds. This allows the information processing device X to set the above-mentioned judgment conditions. This operation is an example of the second operation. The information processing device X can also set such judgment conditions for each of the second to fourth calculated values ​​by accepting predetermined operations. Additionally, the information processing device X can identify at least one of the first to fourth calculated values ​​as the calculated value to be used in trend determination X3 by accepting predetermined operations. That is, the information processing device X can use some or all of the first to fourth calculated values ​​to perform trend determination X3. Below, for the sake of simplicity, we will describe the case where the calculated value used to determine which of the five types of change trend information indicates the trend of the change in the actual value indicated by each actual value information is one of the first to fourth calculated values.

[0047] Furthermore, the information processing device X may be configured to specify one of the first to fourth calculated values ​​for each actual value as a calculated value used to determine which of the five types of change trend information the trend of the actual value represents. In other words, the calculated value used to determine which of the five types of change trend information the trend of a given actual value represents may be different from the calculated value used to determine which of the five types of change trend information the trend of another actual value represents.

[0048] Figure 3 illustrates the criteria for determining which of the five types of change trend information the trend of each actual value represents. In the example shown in Figure 3, the criteria for determining which of the five types of change trend information the trend of the change in maximum injection velocity represents is a condition for the first calculated value based on the maximum injection velocity, with the first threshold being +10, the second threshold being +1, the third threshold being -1, and the fourth threshold being -10. However, in Figure 3, the unit of maximum injection velocity is omitted. Also in this example, the criteria for determining which of the five types of change trend information the trend of the change in cycle time represents is a condition for the second calculated value based on cycle time, with the first threshold being +15%, the second threshold being +5%, the third threshold being -5%, and the fourth threshold being -15%. However, in Figure 3, the first to fourth thresholds for the second calculated value are each expressed as a percentage. Furthermore, in this example, the criteria for determining which of the five types of change trend information the trend of change in mold temperature represents is the condition for the third calculated value based on mold temperature, with the first threshold being +10°C / s, the second threshold being +5°C / s, the third threshold being -0°C / s, and the fourth threshold being -2°C / s. Also, in this example, the criteria for determining which of the five types of change trend information the trend of change in the actual value indicated by "xxx" represents is the condition for the fourth calculated value based on the actual value, with the first threshold being +1.0, the second threshold being +0.1, the third threshold being -0.1, and the fourth threshold being -1.0. However, in Figure 3, the units of the actual value are omitted.

[0049] The information processing device X performs trend determination using the determination conditions set for each actual value as described above, to determine which of the five types of change trend information the trend of change in each actual value represents. The method for setting the determination conditions in the information processing device X may be any method.

[0050] Returning to Figure 2, Area R1 is the area where actual value information indicating actual values ​​where the trend of change has been determined to be a rapid increase is displayed. In the example shown in Figure 2, an icon for the relevant actual value information is displayed in Area R1. An icon for a given actual value information is an icon that represents that actual value information. Therefore, displaying this icon is equivalent to displaying that actual value information. Specifically, the icon I11 for maximum injection speed, which is an example of such actual value information, is displayed in Area R1. This allows the user to quickly and visually identify that the maximum injection speed in the most recently executed cycle has increased rapidly from the previous cycle. In this way, when the information processing device X obtains actual value information indicating actual values ​​where the trend of change has been determined to be a rapid increase as a result of trend determination in response to the first change trend information display operation, it displays the icon for the obtained actual value information in Area R1. When displaying certain actual value information in area R1, the information processing device X may be configured to display the actual value information itself instead of displaying an icon for the actual value information as shown in Figure 2, or it may be configured to display other information that indicates the actual value information. Area R1 is distinguished by at least one of a mark associated with the trend indicated by the change trend information associated with area R1, and at least one of the colors of at least a part of area R1. In this example, the mark is an arrow. In this example, the color is the background color of the area in area R1 that includes the mark. Here, the configuration of the mark may be other configurations. Also, the configuration of the color may be other configurations. In Figure 2, the difference in color is shown by hatching.

[0051] Area R2 is the area where actual value information is displayed, indicating actual values ​​where the trend of change has been determined to be a sharp decrease. In the example shown in Figure 2, an icon for the actual value information is displayed in Area R2. Specifically, the icon I21 for maximum injection holding pressure, which is an example of the actual value information, is displayed in Area R2. This allows the user to quickly and visually identify that the maximum injection holding pressure in the most recently executed cycle has decreased sharply from the previous cycle. In this way, when the information processing device X obtains actual value information indicating an actual value where the trend of change has been determined to be a sharp decrease as a result of trend determination, it displays the icon for the obtained actual value information in Area R2. Note that when displaying certain actual value information in Area R2, the information processing device X may be configured to display the actual value information itself instead of displaying the icon for the actual value information as shown in Figure 2, or it may be configured to display other information indicating the actual value information. Note that Area R2 is distinguished by at least one of the marks corresponding to the trend indicated by the change trend information associated with Area 2 and at least a part of the color of Area R2. In this example, the mark is an arrow. Also, in this example, the color is the background color of the area R2 that includes the mark. Here, the configuration of the mark may be other configurations. Similarly, the configuration of the color may be other configurations.

[0052] Area R3 is the area where actual value information is displayed, indicating actual values ​​for which the trend of change has been determined to be a gradual increase. In the example shown in Figure 2, an icon for the actual value information is displayed in Area R3. Specifically, an icon I31 for average injection velocity, which is an example of the actual value information, is displayed in Area R3. This allows the user to quickly and visually identify that the average injection velocity in the most recently executed cycle has increased gradually from the previous cycle. In this way, when the information processing device X obtains actual value information indicating an actual value for which the trend of change has been determined to be a gradual increase as a result of trend determination, it displays an icon for the obtained actual value information in Area R3. Note that when displaying certain actual value information in Area R3, the information processing device X may be configured to display the actual value information itself instead of displaying an icon for the actual value information as shown in Figure 2, or it may be configured to display other information indicating the actual value information. Note that Area R3 is distinguished by at least one of the mark corresponding to the trend indicated by the change trend information associated with Area R3 and at least a part of the color of Area R3. In this example, the mark is an arrow. Also, in this example, the color is the background color of the area containing the mark in region R3. Here, the configuration of the mark may be other configurations. Similarly, the configuration of the color may be other configurations.

[0053] Area R4 is the area where actual value information is displayed, indicating actual values ​​whose trend of change is determined to be a gradual decrease. In the example shown in Figure 2, icons for the actual value information are displayed in Area R4. Specifically, Area R4 displays an icon I41 for cycle time, which is one example of the actual value information, and an icon I42 for injection end position, which is another example of the actual value information. This allows the user to quickly and visually identify that both the cycle time and injection end position in the most recently executed cycle have decreased gradually from the previous cycle. In this way, when the information processing device X obtains actual value information indicating that the trend of change is determined to be a gradual decrease as a result of trend determination, it displays the icon for the obtained actual value information in Area R4. Note that when displaying certain actual value information in Area R4, the information processing device X may be configured to display the actual value information itself instead of displaying the icon for the actual value information as shown in Figure 2, or it may be configured to display other information that indicates the actual value information. Region R4 is distinguished by at least one of two things: a mark associated with the trend indicated by the change trend information associated with region R4, and the color of at least a portion of region R4. In this example, the mark is an arrow. In this example, the color is the background color of the area in region R4 that includes the mark. Here, the configuration of the mark may be other configurations. Also, the configuration of the color may be other configurations.

[0054] Area R5 is the area where actual value information is displayed, indicating actual values ​​whose trend of change has been determined to be stable. In the example shown in Figure 2, icons for the actual value information are displayed in area R5. Specifically, area R5 displays icons for metering time I51, which is an example of the actual value information; VP switching position I52, which is another example of the actual value information; equipment temperature I53, which is another example of the actual value information; and mold temperature I54, which is another example of the actual value information. This allows the user to quickly and visually identify that the metering time, VP switching position, equipment temperature, and mold temperature in the most recently executed cycle have stabilized since the previous cycle. In this way, when the information processing device X obtains actual value information indicating actual values ​​whose trend of change has been determined to be a gradual decrease as a result of trend determination, it displays the icons for the obtained actual value information in area R5. When displaying certain actual value information in area R5, the information processing device X may be configured to display the actual value information itself instead of displaying an icon for the actual value information as shown in Figure 2, or it may be configured to display other information that indicates the actual value information. Area R5 is distinguished by at least one of a mark associated with the trend indicated by the change trend information associated with area R5, and at least one of the colors of at least a part of area R5. In this example, the mark is an arrow. In this example, the color is the background color of the area in area R5 that includes the mark. Here, the configuration of the mark may be other configurations. Also, the configuration of the color may be other configurations.

[0055] Here, if a selection operation is performed on any of the icons displayed in each of the regions R1 to R5, the information processing device X displays detailed information, including the calculated value used to determine which of the five types of change trend information the change trend of the actual value indicated by the actual value information of the selected icon corresponds to. Here, the actual value information of the icon refers to the actual value information indicated by that icon.

[0056] For example, Figure 4 shows an example of how detailed information is displayed when a selection operation is performed on icon I11 displayed in region R1. In the example shown in Figure 4, the selection operation on icon I11 is performed by hovering the mouse over icon I11, but it is not limited to this. In this example, the information processing device X displays detailed information P2 in response to the selection operation. In this example, detailed information P2 is displayed on image P1, but it may be displayed on an image other than image P1 instead. Also, in this example, detailed information P2 is detailed information displayed in response to a selection operation on icon I11 of the maximum injection velocity information. Therefore, in detailed information P2, the first calculated value, which is the difference between the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X one cycle prior to the latest cycle data, is displayed as "Difference: +15". Note that the display method of the first calculated value in detailed information P2 may be other display methods instead. Furthermore, in addition to this first calculated value, detailed information P2 displays "25→40" as information indicating that the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information included in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data has changed to the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information included in the latest cycle data. This allows the information processing device X to easily identify the calculated value used to determine the trend of the actual value indicated by the actual value information of icon I11.

[0057] Furthermore, Figure 5, for example, shows an example of how detailed information is displayed when a selection operation is performed on icon I41 displayed in area R4. In the example shown in Figure 5, the selection operation on icon I41 is performed by hovering the mouse over icon I41, but it is not limited to this. In this example, the information processing device X displays detailed information P3 in response to the selection operation. In this example, detailed information P3 is displayed on image P1, but it may be displayed on an image other than image P1. Also, in this example, detailed information P3 is detailed information displayed in response to a selection operation on icon I41 of the cycle time information. Therefore, detailed information P3 displays a second calculated value, which is the rate of change based on the cycle time indicated by the cycle time information contained in the latest cycle data and the cycle time indicated by the cycle time information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X one cycle before the latest cycle data, as "rate of change: -5%". Note that the display method of the second calculated value in detailed information P3 may be other display methods. Furthermore, in addition to this second calculated value, detailed information P3 displays "40→38" as information indicating that the cycle time indicated by the cycle time information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data has changed to the cycle time indicated by the cycle time information contained in the latest cycle data. This allows the information processing device X to easily identify the calculated value used to determine the trend of the actual value indicated by the actual value information of icon I41.

[0058] Furthermore, for example, in response to the received second change trend information display operation, the information processing device X selects one or more actual value information from the N actual value information contained in the latest cycle data, and performs a trend determination for the actual value indicated by each of the selected one or more actual value information. In other words, the information processing device X performs a trend determination in response to the second change trend information display operation. The second change trend information display operation is an example of the first operation. Then, the information processing device X displays the image P4 shown in Figure 6 according to the result of the trend determination. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of image P4. Image P4 is an actual value information list display image that shows a list of at least some of the N actual value information contained in the cycle data for each cycle data, and is another example of a change trend information display image. In the example shown in Figure 6, image P4 displays a list of records representing each of the two cycle data, cycle data SD1 and cycle data SD2. As a result, image P4 displays a list of three actual value information items—cycle time information, maximum injection velocity information, and metering time information—out of the N actual value information items contained in each cycle data set, cycle data SD1 and cycle data SD2. In this example, each record representing cycle data also includes first date and time information in addition to these three actual value information items. More specifically, the record representing cycle data SD1 includes the first date and time information "2024 / 01 / 01 9:01:58" which indicates January 1, 2024, at 9:01:58 a.m., cycle time information "38" which indicates 30 seconds, maximum injection velocity information "40" which indicates 40 mm / s, and metering time information "10" which indicates 10 seconds. Furthermore, the record representing cycle data SD2 includes the first date and time information "2024 / 01 / 01 9:01:00", which indicates January 1, 2024 at 9:01:00; the cycle time information "40", which indicates 40 seconds; the maximum ejection velocity information "25", which indicates 25 mm / s; and the metering time information "10", which indicates 10 seconds.

[0059] In the example shown in Figure 6, labels are displayed above the top record, i.e., the record showing cycle data SD1, indicating the fields where the first date and time information, cycle time information, maximum injection velocity information, and metering time information are displayed for each record. For example, the label indicating the field where the first date and time information is displayed for each record is the string "First Date and Time Information". Also, for example, the label indicating the field where the cycle time information is displayed for each record is the string "Cycle Time Information". The information processing device X displays change trend information next to each of these labels, thereby displaying change trend information, which shows the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, for each of the three actual value information contained in the latest cycle data, cycle data SD1, in conjunction with the actual value information. In other words, the information processing device X displays change trend information next to each of these labels, thereby displaying change trend information, which shows the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, for each of the three actual value information contained in the latest cycle data, cycle data SD1, in conjunction with the actual value information. For example, next to "Cycle Time Information," one of the labels displayed at the top of the record showing cycle data SD1, information MK1 is displayed as change trend information showing the trend of change in cycle time indicated by the cycle time information contained in cycle data SD1. In this example, information MK1 is an image discriminable by a mark associated with the trend shown by the change trend information and a color associated with the trend. Note that information MK1 may also be an image discriminable by either the mark or the color. Furthermore, information MK1 may be other information that shows the trend. Also, in this example, next to "Maximum Injection Velocity Information," one of the labels displayed at the top of the record showing cycle data SD1, information MK2 is displayed as change trend information showing the trend of change in maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in cycle data SD1. In this example, information MK2 is an image discriminable by a mark associated with the trend shown by the change trend information and a color associated with the trend.Furthermore, Information MK2 may be an image that can be distinguished by either the mark or the color. Also, Information MK2 may be other information that indicates the trend. In this example, next to "Measurement Time Information," one of the labels displayed at the top of the record showing cycle data SD1, Information MK3 is displayed as change trend information that shows the trend of change in measurement time indicated by the measurement time information contained in cycle data SD1. In this example, Information MK3 is an image that can be distinguished by a mark associated with the trend indicated by the change trend information and a color associated with that trend. Furthermore, Information MK3 may be an image that can be distinguished by either the mark or the color. Also, Information MK3 may be other information that indicates the trend.

[0060] As mentioned above, each of the information MK1 to MK3 is change trend information that shows the trend of change in actual values ​​indicated by the actual value information included in the latest cycle data. Therefore, in the example shown in Figure 6, the information processing device X displays, in image P4, the change trend information that shows the trend of change in actual values ​​indicated by the actual value information for at least a portion of the actual value information included in the latest cycle data, associating it with the actual value information via the actual value information label. This allows the information processing device X to quickly read the trend of change in actual values ​​indicated by each piece of actual value information via image P4.

[0061] Furthermore, the information processing device X may be configured to display change trend information, which indicates the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, for each cycle data displayed in image P4, in association with the actual value information. In this case, in response to the received second change trend information display operation, the information processing device X selects each individual cycle data displayed in image P4 as the first cycle data, and selects the cycle data indicated by each record below the record selected as the first cycle data as the second cycle data. Then, for each first cycle data, the information processing device X performs a trend determination based on the actual value information contained in the first cycle data and the actual value information contained in each of the second cycle data. As a result, the information processing device X can display change trend information, which indicates the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, in association with the actual value information for each individual cycle data displayed in image P4. In this case, the information processing device X can compare the trend of change in past actual values ​​with the trend of change in the latest actual values, and cycle management can be performed more efficiently. For example, Figure 7 shows an example of Image P4, where change trend information is displayed in association with the actual value information contained in each cycle data. In the example shown in Figure 7, change trend information is displayed next to all the actual value information displayed in Image P4. In other words, in this example, the information processing device X can compare the change trend of the actual value in the cycle of cycle data SD2 with the change trend of the actual value in the cycle of cycle data SD1, thereby enabling more efficient cycle management.

[0062] As described above, the information processing device X displays an image showing the trend of change information in response to the received operation. This allows the information processing device X to quickly read the trend of change in the actual values ​​indicated by each actual value information. Furthermore, the user can determine that the production of the product in the cycle is stable if, for example, the trend of change in each actual value is stable. This means that if a defect occurs in the production of the product in the cycle, the cause of the defect can be inferred by identifying the actual value whose trend of change is not stable. Since the information processing device X allows the user to quickly identify the actual value whose trend of change is not stable, the user can efficiently manage the cycle. In addition, in the condition setting work to find appropriate injection molding conditions for the production, the information processing device X allows the user to easily identify the impact of changing the injection molding conditions on each actual value as a trend of change in the actual value. This leads to increased efficiency in the condition setting work and is useful. Furthermore, the information processing device X can set judgment conditions for the calculated values ​​used to determine trends in each actual value indicated by the actual value information. As a result, the judgment conditions can be customized according to the ease with which each actual value changes, and the trends in change for each of the various actual values, which have diverse eases of change, can be determined with high accuracy.

[0063] Furthermore, the image displayed as the change trend information display image may include other images in place of at least one of image P1 and image P4, or in addition to image P1 and image P4.

[0064] For example, as shown in Figure 8, the information processing device X may be configured to display a card-type image containing change trend information that shows the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, for each of the one or more actual value information items specified by the third change trend display operation from among the N actual value information items included in the cycle data, in response to the received third change trend display operation. Figure 8 is an example of a card-type image that the information processing device X displays for each actual value information item in response to the third change trend display operation. Note that the third change trend display operation is an example of the first operation.

[0065] In the example shown in Figure 8, three pieces of actual value information—cycle time information, maximum injection velocity information, and metering time information—are specified as one or more actual value information items by the third change trend display operation. Furthermore, images P5 to P7 shown in Figure 8 are examples of card-type images displayed by the information processing device X in response to the third change trend display operation, and are also examples of change trend information display images.

[0066] Specifically, image P5 is an image associated with cycle time information, and is an example of a card-type image containing change trend information that shows the trend of change in cycle time indicated by the cycle time information. For this reason, information MK4 is displayed in image P5 as the change trend information. Information MK4 is an image that can be distinguished by a mark associated with the trend shown by the change trend information and a color associated with the trend. Note that information MK4 may be an image that can be distinguished by either the mark or the color. Also, information MK4 may be other information that shows the trend. Because information MK4 is displayed in image P5, the cycle time information associated with image P5 is associated with the change trend information displayed as information MK4. Accordingly, the information processing device X can display change trend information that shows the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, in association with the actual value information, in response to the third change trend display operation. Also, the cycle time value "38 sec" is displayed in image P5. Furthermore, in image P5, "40→38" is displayed as information indicating that the cycle time indicated by the cycle time information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data has changed to the cycle time indicated by the cycle time information contained in the latest cycle data. Also, in image P5, the second calculated value, which is the rate of change based on the cycle time indicated by the cycle time information contained in the latest cycle data and the cycle time indicated by the cycle time information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data, is displayed as "(-5%)". As a result, the information processing device X can quickly identify the trend of change in cycle time indicated by the cycle time information associated with image P5, and can easily identify the calculated value used to determine the trend of cycle time indicated by the cycle time information associated with image P5. This is useful because it allows the user to selectively identify the trend of change in actual values ​​indicated by individual actual value information.

[0067] Image P6 is an image associated with maximum injection velocity information and is an example of a card-type image containing change trend information that shows the trend of change in the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information. For this reason, information MK5 is displayed in image P6 as the change trend information. Information MK5 is an image that can be distinguished by a mark associated with the trend shown by the change trend information and a color associated with the trend. Note that information MK5 may be an image that can be distinguished by either the mark or the color. Also, information MK5 may be other information that shows the trend. Because information MK5 is displayed in image P6, the maximum injection velocity information associated with image P6 is associated with the change trend information displayed as information MK5. Accordingly, the information processing device X can display change trend information that shows the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, in association with the actual value information, in response to the third change trend display operation. In addition, the value of the maximum injection velocity, "40 mm / s", is displayed in image P6. Furthermore, in image P6, "25→40" is displayed as information indicating that the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data has changed to the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data. Also, in image P6, the first calculated value, which is the difference between the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the latest cycle data and the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data, is displayed as "(+15)". As a result, the information processing device X can quickly identify the trend of change in the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information associated with image P6, and can easily identify the calculated value used to determine the trend of the maximum injection velocity indicated by the maximum injection velocity information associated with image P6. This is useful because it allows the user to selectively identify the trend of change in the actual values ​​indicated by individual actual value information.

[0068] Image P7 is an image associated with measurement time information and is an example of a card-type image containing change trend information that shows the trend of change in measurement time indicated by the measurement time information. For this reason, information MK6 is displayed in image P7 as the change trend information. Information MK6 is an image that can be distinguished by a mark associated with the trend shown by the change trend information and a color associated with the trend. Note that information MK6 may be an image that can be distinguished by either the mark or the color. Also, information MK6 may be other information that shows the trend. Because information MK6 is displayed in image P7, the measurement time information associated with image P7 is associated with the change trend information displayed as information MK6. Accordingly, the information processing device X can display change trend information that shows the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, in association with the actual value information, in response to the third change trend display operation. Also, the measurement time value "10 sec" is displayed in image P7. Furthermore, in image P7, "10→10" is displayed as information indicating that the measurement time indicated by the measurement time information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data has changed to the measurement time indicated by the measurement time information contained in the latest cycle data. Also, in image P7, the first calculated value, which is the difference between the measurement time indicated by the measurement time information contained in the latest cycle data and the measurement time indicated by the measurement time information contained in the cycle data acquired by the information processing device X immediately before the latest cycle data, is displayed as "(±0)". As a result, the information processing device X can quickly identify the trend of change in measurement time indicated by the measurement time information associated with image P7, and can easily identify the calculated value used to determine the trend of measurement time indicated by the measurement time information associated with image P7. This is useful because it allows the user to selectively identify the trend of change in actual values ​​indicated by individual actual value information.

[0069] <Hardware configuration of information processing device X> Here, the information processing device 20 and the server 30 may have the same hardware configuration or they may have different hardware configurations. Below, as an example, we will describe the case in which the information processing device 20 and the server 30 have the same hardware configuration. In other words, in this example, the information processing device X has the hardware configuration shown in Figure 9. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device X.

[0070] The information processing device X comprises, for example, a processor 31, a storage unit 32, and a communication unit 33. These components are connected to each other via a bus so as to be able to communicate with one another. The information processing device X also communicates with other devices via the communication unit 33. These other devices are, for example, an injection molding machine, a server 30, a terminal device 40, etc., if the information processing device X is an information processing device 20. These other devices are, for example, an information processing device 20, a terminal device 40, etc., if the information processing device X is a server 30.

[0071] The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). However, the processor 31 may be another processor, such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), instead of a CPU. The processor 31 executes various programs stored in the memory unit 32.

[0072] The storage unit 32 is a storage device that includes, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), or a RAM (Random Access Memory). The storage unit 32 may be an external storage device connected via a digital input / output port such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus), instead of being built into the information processing device X. The storage unit 32 stores various types of information, images, and programs processed by the information processing device X. In other words, all types of information stored by the information processing device X are stored in the storage unit 32.

[0073] The communication unit 33 is a communication device that includes, for example, digital input / output ports such as USB, an Ethernet® port, an antenna for wireless communication, and the like.

[0074] <Functional Configuration of Information Processing Device X> Here, the information processing device 20 and the server 30 may have the same functional configuration or they may have different functional configurations. Below, as an example, we will describe the case in which the information processing device 20 and the server 30 have the same functional configuration. In other words, in this example, the information processing device X has the functional configuration shown in Figure 10. Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device X.

[0075] The information processing device X comprises a storage unit 32, a communication unit 33, and a control unit 34.

[0076] The control unit 34 controls the entire information processing device X. The control unit 34 comprises at least a cycle data acquisition unit 341, an injection molding condition data acquisition unit 342, a display control unit 343, and an output control unit 344. These functional units of the control unit 34 are realized, for example, by the processor 31 executing various programs stored in the storage unit 32. Some or all of these functional units may be hardware functional units such as LSIs (Large Scale Integration) or ASICs (Application Specific Integrated Circuits).

[0077] The cycle data acquisition unit 341 acquires cycle data for each cycle of the injection molding machine from a device that is communicatively connected to the information processing device X. This device may be, for example, an injection molding machine or an information processing device 20.

[0078] The injection molding condition data acquisition unit 342 acquires injection molding condition data from a device that is communicatively connected to the information processing device X each time injection molding conditions are set in each injection molding apparatus. This device may be, for example, an injection molding apparatus or an information processing device 20.

[0079] The display control unit 343 generates various images in response to the received operation. For example, the display control unit 343 generates images P1, P4 to P7, etc. The display control unit 343 transmits the generated images to the terminal device 40 and displays the images on the terminal device 40.

[0080] The output control unit 344 outputs various types of data to other devices according to the received operation.

[0081] <Processing performed by the information processing device X in response to the received operation> Referring to Figure 11, the processing performed by the information processing device X in response to each operation described above will be explained. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of processing performed by the information processing device X in response to an received operation. Below, as an example, we will explain the case in which the information processing device X is in a state where it can receive various operations from the user via the terminal device 40 at a time before the processing of step S110 shown in Figure 11 is performed. Furthermore, below, as an example, we will explain the case in which, at that time, multiple cycle data and multiple injection molding condition data are already stored in the information processing device X.

[0082] The control unit 34 waits until it receives an operation via the terminal device 40 (step S110). In Figure 11, the process in step S110 is indicated by "Operation received?".

[0083] If the control unit 34 determines that it has received an operation via the terminal device 40 (step S110-YES), it determines whether the received operation is an operation that terminates the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 11 (step S120). The determination process in step S120 by the control unit 34 may be performed by a known method or by a method to be developed in the future. Also, in Figure 11, the process in step S120 is indicated by "Termination?".

[0084] If the control unit 34 determines that the operation received in step S110 is an operation to terminate the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 11 (step S120-YES), it terminates the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 11, for example.

[0085] On the other hand, if the control unit 34 determines that the operation received in step S110 is not an operation that terminates the process shown in the flowchart in Figure 11 (step S120-NO), it performs processing corresponding to the received operation (step S130). This processing includes various processes that have been described as processes performed by the information processing device X in this embodiment. Here, the processing performed by the control unit 34 in step S130 has already been explained in the explanation of Figures 2 to 8, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0086] After the processing in step S130 is completed, the control unit 34 transitions to step S110 and waits again until it receives an operation via the terminal device 40.

[0087] Through the processing described above, the information processing device X, in response to the received operation, displays a change trend information display image that associates each of the N actual value information items included in the cycle data with one of five types of change trend information items that indicate the trend of change in the actual value information. This allows the information processing device X to quickly read the trend of change in the actual value information indicated by each actual value information item.

[0088] Furthermore, the molding management system 1 described above may include a terminal device 40. Also, the molding management system 1 described above may include an injection molding apparatus such as an injection molding apparatus 11.

[0089] Furthermore, the elements described above can be combined in any way.

[0090] <Note> [1] A molding management system that includes an information processing device that is communicably connected to a terminal device, and manages the production of a product in a production process that includes an injection molding process of a product by an injection molding device, wherein the information processing device acquires cycle data from the injection molding device for each cycle, which includes, as cycle-related information obtained in accordance with the execution of an injection molding cycle by the injection molding device, actual value information indicating the actual value for each of N types of actual values ​​controlled by the injection molding device, and first date and time information indicating the date and time acquired from the injection molding device, and in response to a first operation received, displays a change trend information display image on a display unit which, for each of the N actual value information included in the cycle data, associates the actual value information with one of a plurality of types of change trend information indicating the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, and N is an integer of 2 or more. [2] The molding management system according to [1], wherein the change trend information display image displays regions corresponding to each of the multiple types of change trend information, and the information processing device, in response to the first operation, determines for each of the one or more of the actual value information that the change trend of the actual value indicated by the actual value information is the trend indicated by one of the multiple types of change trend information, and displays on the region for each of the multiple types of change trend information that the actual value information determined to show the actual value that has changed in accordance with the trend indicated by the change trend information corresponding to the region, from among the one or more of the actual value information, the actual value information that has changed in accordance with the trend indicated by the change trend information corresponding to the region. [3] The molding management system according to [2], wherein the information processing device displays, for each of the multiple types of change trend information associated with a region, an icon of the actual value information which has been determined to represent the actual value which has changed in accordance with the trend indicated by the change trend information associated with the region, from among the one or more actual value information. [4] The molding management system according to [3], wherein the information processing device calculates a calculated value for each of the one or more actual value pieces of information used to determine which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the actual value indicated by the actual value piece of information, determines which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the actual value indicated by the actual value piece of information, and when a selection operation is performed on the icon, displays information including the calculated value used to determine which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the actual value indicated by the actual value piece of information of the icon, on the display unit. [5] The molding management system according to any one of [2] to [4], wherein, on the change trend information display image, the regions associated with each of the plurality of types of change trend information are distinguished by at least one of a mark associated with the trend indicated by the change trend information associated with the region and the color of at least a part of the region. [6] The molding management system according to any one of the items [1] to [5], wherein the types of change trend information are at least three, and each of the three types of change trend information shows one of the following trends: increase, stability, or decrease. [7] The molding management system according to any one of the following items [1] to [5], wherein the types of change trend information are at least five, and each of the five types of change trend information shows one of the following trends: rapid increase, gradual increase, stable, gradual decrease, or rapid decrease. [8] The information processing device, in response to the first operation, determines for each of the one or more actual value pieces of information that the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value piece of information corresponds to the trend indicated by one of the multiple types of change trend information, and for each of the cycle data, displays an actual value piece of information list display image as the change trend information display image on the display unit, which displays a list of at least some of the N actual value pieces of information included in the cycle data, and the change trend information indicating the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value piece of information is displayed along with each of the actual value pieces included in the list of at least some displayed in the actual value piece of information list display image, wherein the molding management system according to any one of [1] to [7]. [9] The molding management system according to [8], wherein each of the plurality of types of change trend information is an image discriminable by at least one of a mark associated with the trend shown by the change trend information and a color associated with the trend shown by the change trend information.

[10] The molding management system according to any one of [1] to [9], wherein the information processing device calculates a calculated value for each of the one or more actual value pieces of information used to determine which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the value change indicated by the actual value piece, and determines which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the actual value change indicated by the actual value piece based on the calculated value.

[11] The molding management system according to

[10] , wherein the calculated value is one of the following: the difference between the actual value indicated by the actual value information, the rate of change of the actual value indicated by the actual value information, the derivative of the actual value indicated by the actual value information, or the difference between the actual value indicated by the actual value information and the moving average of the actual value indicated by the actual value information.

[12] The molding management system according to

[10] or

[11] , wherein the information processing device sets, in response to the second operation received, a determination condition for the calculated value used to determine which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information for each of the one or more actual value information.

[13] A molding management system according to any one of [1] to

[12] , including the aforementioned terminal device.

[14] A molding management system according to any one of [1] to

[13] , including the injection molding apparatus.

[0091] Although embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to these embodiments and may be modified, replaced, deleted, etc., as long as it does not deviate from the gist of this disclosure.

[0092] Furthermore, a program to realize the function of any component in the apparatus described above may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and the program may be loaded into a computer system and executed. Here, the apparatus is, for example, an injection molding machine 11, an information processing device 20, a server 30, a terminal device 40, etc. The term "computer system" here includes hardware such as an OS (Operating System) and peripheral devices. The term "computer-readable recording medium" refers to portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, CD (Compact Disk)-ROMs, and storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. In addition, the term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes volatile memory inside a computer system that acts as a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line, which retains the program for a certain period of time.

[0093] Furthermore, the above program may be transmitted from a computer system that stores the program in a memory device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves within the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" used to transmit the program refers to a medium that has the function of transmitting information, such as a network like the Internet or a communication line like a telephone line. Furthermore, the above program may be intended to implement some of the functions described above. In addition, the above program may be one that can implement the functions described above in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, a so-called differential file or differential program. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0094] 1...Molding management system, 10...Managed device, 11...Injection molding machine, 20...Information processing device, 30...Server, 31...Processor, 32...Storage unit, 33...Communication unit, 34...Control unit, 40...Terminal device, 341...Cycle data acquisition unit, 342...Injection molding condition data acquisition unit, 343...Display control unit, 344...Output control unit, X...Information processing device

Claims

1. A molding management system that includes an information processing device that is communicably connected to a terminal device, and manages the production of a product in a production process that includes an injection molding process of a product by an injection molding machine, The aforementioned information processing device is The cycle-related information obtained in accordance with the execution of the injection molding cycle by the injection molding apparatus includes actual value information showing the actual values ​​for each of N types of actual values ​​controlled by the injection molding apparatus, and also includes first date and time information showing the date and time obtained from the injection molding apparatus, and the cycle data is obtained from the injection molding apparatus for each cycle. In response to the first operation received, for each of the N actual value pieces of actual value information included in the cycle data, a change trend information display image is displayed on the display unit, which associates the actual value information with one of several types of change trend information that indicate the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information. N is an integer greater than or equal to 2. Molding management system.

2. The change trend information display image shows regions corresponding to each of the multiple types of change trend information. The information processing device, in response to the first operation, determines for each of the one or more of the actual value information pieces that the trend of change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information is represented by one of the multiple types of change trend information pieces, and displays on the area for each of the multiple types of change trend information pieces that the information processing device determines to represent the actual value that has changed in accordance with the trend indicated by the change trend information piece associated with the area, from among the one or more of the actual value information pieces. The molding management system according to claim 1.

3. The information processing device displays, for each of the multiple types of change trend information associated with a given area, an icon of the actual value information that has been determined to represent the actual value that has changed in accordance with the trend indicated by the change trend information associated with that area, from among the one or more actual value information items, on the area. The molding management system according to claim 2.

4. The aforementioned information processing device is For each of the one or more of the aforementioned actual value information, a calculated value is calculated to determine which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information, and based on the calculated value, it is determined which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information. When a selection operation is performed on the aforementioned icon, the display unit displays information including the calculated value used to determine which of the multiple types of change trend information the trend of change in the aforementioned actual value information indicated by the aforementioned actual value information of the aforementioned icon corresponds to. The molding management system according to claim 3.

5. On the aforementioned change trend information display image, the regions associated with each of the multiple types of change trend information are distinguished by at least one of a mark associated with the trend indicated by the change trend information associated with the region, and the color of at least a part of the region. The molding management system according to claim 2.

6. The aforementioned change trend information consists of at least three types, Each of the three types of change trend information mentioned above shows one of the following trends: increase, stability, or decrease. The molding management system according to claim 1.

7. The aforementioned change trend information consists of at least five types. Each of the five types of change trend information mentioned above indicates one of the following trends: rapid increase, gradual increase, stability, gradual decrease, or rapid decrease. The molding management system according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned information processing device is In response to the first operation, for each of the one or more of the actual value information, it is determined which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the actual value change shown by the actual value information, and for each of the cycle data, the display unit is made to display an actual value information list display image as the change trend information display image, which displays a list of at least some of the N of the actual value information included in the cycle data. Each of the individual pieces of performance data included in the list of performance data displayed in the aforementioned performance data list image is accompanied by change trend information indicating the trend of change in the performance data shown by the performance data. The molding management system according to claim 1.

9. Each of the aforementioned multiple types of change trend information is an image that can be distinguished by at least one of a mark associated with the trend indicated by the change trend information and a color associated with the trend indicated by the change trend information. The molding management system according to claim 8.

10. The information processing device calculates a calculated value for each of the one or more of the actual value information to determine which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the change in the value indicated by the actual value information, and determines which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the change in the actual value information indicated by the actual value information based on the calculated value. The molding management system according to claim 1.

11. The calculated value is one of the following: the difference between the actual value and the actual value indicated by the actual value information, the rate of change of the actual value indicated by the actual value information, the derivative of the actual value indicated by the actual value information, or the difference between the actual value and the moving average indicated by the actual value information. The molding management system according to claim 10.

12. The information processing device, in response to the received second operation, sets a determination condition for the calculated value used to determine which of the multiple types of change trend information indicates the trend of the change in the actual value indicated by the actual value information for each of the one or more actual value information. The molding management system according to claim 10.

13. Including the aforementioned terminal device, The molding management system according to claim 1.

14. Including the injection molding apparatus, The molding management system according to claim 1.

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