Information management method and information management system

Abstract

To provide a technique capable of performing simulations and pre-verification with higher accuracy.SOLUTION: An information management method to be executed by one or more computers includes the steps of: generating a first instance model corresponding to a real configuration including one or more devices; collecting information from one or more devices; updating the first instance model based on the collected information; generating type model information based on the updated first instance model; and updating a managed type model based on the generated type model information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present technology relates to an information management method and an information management system. [Background technology]

[0002] Efforts are underway to extend standard networks (e.g., Ethernet (registered trademark)) that are used in general information networks so that they can also be used in industrial networks. More specifically, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) 802.1 Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) (hereinafter also simply referred to as "TSN") is known, which is based on Ethernet (registered trademark) and has been improved so that the network behaves deterministically. TSN makes it easier to achieve real-time communication using general-purpose hardware such as Ethernet (registered trademark).

[0003] Additionally, OPC Unified Architecture (OPC UA), which is an international standard under IEC 62541, is attracting attention as a communications stack for data communication between devices. The combination of TSN and OPC UA is also known as "OPC UA over TSN."

[0004] Thus, rapid technological advances are occurring in the field of industry automation.

[0005] On the other hand, when constructing a system consisting of multiple devices, there is a need to be able to simulate the performance, etc., in advance.

[0006] For example, International Publication No. 2019 / 220605 (Patent Document 1) discloses a simulation device that executes a simulation of a programmable logic controller. Also, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-030690 (Patent Document 2) discloses a simulation method that can predict anomalies that may occur in devices that constitute a control system.

[0007] In addition, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-048172 (Patent Document 3) discloses a verification device that performs efficient function verification of open network equipment. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0008] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2019 / 220605 [Patent Document 2] JP 2008-030690 A [Patent Document 3] JP 2020-048172 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0009] In the prior art documents mentioned above, simulations are realized by combining models prepared in advance, but it is not easy to maintain the accuracy of such models.

[0010] This technology provides a way to more easily improve the accuracy of models used in simulations, advance verification, and the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0011] According to an embodiment of the present technology, there is provided an information management method executed by one or more computers, the information management method including the steps of: generating a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices, collecting information from the one or more devices, updating the first instance model based on the collected information, generating information of a type model based on the updated first instance model, and updating a managed type model based on the generated type model information.

[0012] According to this configuration, the instance model can be updated based on information on one or more devices included in the actual configuration, and the type model can be updated based on the updated instance model. By using such a series of information chains, a type model that reflects information collected from one or more actual configurations can be configured. This makes it possible to improve the accuracy of the type model and also to increase reusability.

[0013] The information management method may further include a step of instantiating the type model to generate a second instance model, and a step of reflecting the generated second instance model in a corresponding new real configuration. According to this configuration, before realizing a new real configuration, a corresponding second instance model is generated, and the generated second instance model can be used to perform a preliminary study of the new real configuration.

[0014] The step of generating the second instance model may include a step of copying the first instance model. With this configuration, a preliminary study on changing an existing actual configuration can be easily performed.

[0015] The information management method may further include a step of executing a simulation using the generated new instance model. With this configuration, it is possible to evaluate, by a prior simulation, whether a required performance or the like is exhibited in a new actual configuration.

[0016] The step of generating the type model information may include a step of removing information specific to the instance model from the updated instance model. With this configuration, it is possible to generate generalized type model information by removing information specific to the actual configuration included in the instance model.

[0017] The instance model may be generated in a restricted first virtual space. The type model may be managed in a second virtual space accessible from the plurality of first virtual spaces. With this configuration, the type model managed in the second virtual space can be used for the instance models generated in the plurality of first virtual spaces.

[0018] The type model and the instance model may be provided with identification information for identifying the same type. With this configuration, when generating an instance model, it is possible to easily identify the elements of the model corresponding to each device.

[0019] The step of updating the first instance model may include a step of calculating an error between the collected information and the first instance model, and changing a value of the first instance model based on the calculated error. With this configuration, it is possible to generate a first instance model that more accurately reflects the behavior or operation of the actual configuration.

[0020] According to another embodiment of the present technology, there is provided an information management system including a first computer and a second computer. The first computer includes a means for generating a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices, a means for acquiring information from the one or more devices, a means for updating the first instance model based on the acquired information, and a means for generating information of a type model based on the updated first instance model. The second computer includes a means for updating the managed type model based on the generated type model information. Effect of the Invention

[0021] According to the present technology, it is possible to more easily improve the accuracy of models used in simulations, advance verification, and the like. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0022] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an overall configuration of an information management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] 1 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to collection of information on an actual configuration in an information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of information collected in an information management system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 4] 11 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to information transmission to a private virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 5] 11 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to updating an instance model of a private virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 6] 11 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to information transmission to a public virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 7] 11 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to updating information of a type model of a public virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram for illustrating a process related to configuration of a private virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 9] 11 is a diagram for explaining a process relating to reflection on an actual configuration in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram for illustrating another process related to configuration of a private virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 11] 13 is a diagram for explaining another process relating to reflection on an actual configuration in the information management system according to the embodiment. FIG. [Figure 12] It is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of an information processing apparatus 150 that realizes a public virtual space of an information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of a switch of an information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in an information management system according to this embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0023] Embodiments of the present technology will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. For the same or corresponding parts in the drawings, the same reference numerals are given and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0024] <A. Application Example> First, an example of a scenario to which the present invention is applied will be described.

[0025] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an information management system 1 according to this embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, the information management system 1 includes a public virtual space 10 and one or more private virtual spaces 20A, 20B,... (hereinafter, may also be collectively referred to as "private virtual space 20").

[0026] In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, the private virtual space 20A is configured corresponding to the actual configuration 30A, and the private virtual space 20B is configured corresponding to the actual configuration 30B. Note that the actual configurations 30A, 30B,... may also be collectively referred to as "actual configuration 30".

[0027] Typically, the private virtual space 20 is a restricted virtual space that can be accessed only by the owner or administrator of the corresponding real configuration 30. In contrast, the public virtual space 10 is a virtual space that can be accessed by third parties as well as the owner or administrator of a specific real configuration 30. In other words, the public virtual space 10 corresponds to a virtual space that can be accessed from multiple private virtual spaces 20.

[0028] The real configuration 30 refers to an entity consisting of one or more devices existing in the real world. Typically, the real configuration 30 corresponds to one or more network-connected devices constituting a real manufacturing line or manufacturing facility.

[0029] The information management system 1 according to the present embodiment manages information by modeling the actual configuration 30 or the devices included in the actual configuration 30 as accurately as possible. Furthermore, the information management system 1 provides a more accurate preliminary simulation, etc., prior to realizing a new actual configuration 30, based on the modeled information.

[0030] The public virtual space 10 includes information that defines models of devices included in the real configuration 30. Typically, the public virtual space 10 is accessible or available not only to the entity (corporation or organization) that owns the specific real configuration 30, but also to third parties that meet certain requirements. The information managed by the public virtual space 10 is basically "type model" information. A "type model" is a model that defines the characteristics and properties that devices belonging to the same type or format have in common. In other words, a "type model" refers to information such as common characteristics and properties that are independent of individual devices.

[0031] Private virtual space 20 contains information that is configured to correspond to a corresponding real configuration 30. The collection of information contained in private virtual space 20 may be referred to as "assets."

[0032] Typically, the private virtual space 20 includes information unique to the corresponding real configuration 30. The private virtual space 20 has an "instance model" that reflects unique information for the "type model" managed by the public virtual space 10. The "instance model" is generated by adding information unique to the real configuration 30 to the "type model" and instantiating it. In addition, the "instance model" configured in the private virtual space 20 is at least a part of the "assets" of the private virtual space 20.

[0033] As described below, a portion of the information of the "instance model" managed by the private virtual space 20 is provided (feedback) to the public virtual space 10. At this time, information contained in the "instance model" that is unique to the corresponding actual configuration 30 is excluded from the content provided to the public virtual space 10. In this way, the information processing device that manages the private virtual space 20 generates type model information by removing information unique to the instance model from the updated instance model.

[0034] An example of information management processing using the information management system 1 shown in Fig. 1 will be described below. In the following description, a case where a new actual configuration 30B is configured by reflecting information collected in an existing actual configuration 30A will be illustrated. Note that the actual configurations 30A and 30B are not necessarily the same configuration. Note that the following information management method is executed by one or more computers. An example of the hardware configuration of the computer will be described later.

[0035] First, (1) information on the actual configuration 30A is collected. The information collected from the actual configuration 30A is sent to the private virtual space 20A (2). In the private virtual space 20A, (3) assets (instance models) are updated based on the information sent from the actual configuration 30A.

[0036] Furthermore, (4) the information of the updated assets in the private virtual space 20A is transmitted to the public virtual space 10. In the public virtual space 10, (5) the information of the type model is updated based on the information transmitted from the private virtual space 20A.

[0037] After that, (6) a private virtual space 20B corresponding to the actual configuration 30B of the purpose is configured. Then, in the configured private virtual space 20B, (7) necessary simulations and the like are executed. Depending on the simulation results, the configuration of the private virtual space 20B may be changed or updated.

[0038] Finally, (8) the content of the private virtual space 20B is reflected in the actual configuration 30B. By configuring such a data chain, the accuracy of the model and the simulation using the model can be improved, and errors and the like when reflected in the actual configuration can be reduced.

[0039] Note that in the above description, the case of configuring a new actual configuration 30B is exemplified, but it can also be used for applications such as modifying an existing actual configuration 30A to an actual configuration 30B. In this case, after configuring a private virtual space 20B that is substantially the same as the private virtual space 20A, while performing a simulation based on the private virtual space 20B, the configuration of the private virtual space 20B is appropriately changed. Finally, the content of the changed private virtual space 20B is reflected in the actual configuration 30B.

[0040] Hereinafter, the details of each process will be described. <B. Details of the Process> [(1) Collection of Information on the Actual Configuration] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the process related to the collection of information on the actual configuration 30A in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 2, as an example of the actual configuration 30A, a production system including a network-connected PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) is shown.

[0041] 2, two PLCs 300 are connected to a network via a switch 310. The two PLCs and the switch 310 exchange data using a network protocol conforming to, for example, TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking). The data exchange is managed by a network controller 320.

[0042] Furthermore, in the actual configuration 30A, a monitoring device 330 is connected to the network via a switch 312.

[0043] The network controller 320 and the monitoring device 330 collect information on the devices included in the actual configuration 30A. The network controller 320 and the monitoring device 330 may collect information on the devices included in the actual configuration 30A periodically or for each event. Furthermore, in addition to the start-up stage of the actual configuration 30A, information on the devices included in the actual configuration 30A is also collected during the operation stage of the actual configuration 30A.

[0044] The network controller 320 mainly collects information related to network communications (communication information 322). For example, the network controller 320 collects the communication information 322 from each device (such as the PLC 300 and the switch 310) using an OPC UA protocol conforming to the OPC UA information model or a NETCONF protocol conforming to the YANG (Yet Another Next Generation) model.

[0045] The monitoring device 330 mainly collects production information 332 from an operating production system. For example, the monitoring device 330 collects the production information 332 from each device (such as the PLC 300) using OPC UA client-server communication according to the OPC UA information model.

[0046] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of information collected in information management system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0047] Figure 3(A) shows an example of information for each device collected according to the OPC UA companion specification. Items of information for each device include, for example, input / output data equivalent to the trace of monitored data, operation logs, events, etc.

[0048] An example of information related to the management and control of a TSN-centric network is shown in Fig. 3(B). Examples of information items related to the management and control of a network include user settings such as network configuration and cyclic communication settings, device capabilities, and communication diagnostic information.

[0049] At least a portion of the communication information 322 and / or the production information 332 collected by the network controller 320 and / or the monitoring device 330 is information specific to the actual configuration 30 .

[0050] [(2) Sending information to a private virtual space] Fig. 4 is a diagram for explaining a process related to information transmission to the private virtual space 20A in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. With reference to Fig. 4, information collected by the network controller 320 and / or the monitoring device 330 is transmitted to the private virtual space 20A. Transmission of information from the real configuration 30A to the private virtual space 20A may be performed periodically or for each event.

[0051] The private virtual space 20A has a shared data storage unit 250, in which information from the real configuration 30A is stored in sequence. The information may be transmitted from the real configuration 30A to the private virtual space 20A using OPC UA PubSub over MQTT, which is a combination of OPC UA PubSub communication and the MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) protocol. It is preferable that the information is encrypted before transmission.

[0052] [(3) Update assets (instance models)] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a process relating to updating an instance model of private virtual space 20A in information management system 1 according to the present embodiment.

[0053] 5, private virtual space 20A is configured to correspond to real configuration 30. More specifically, in private virtual space 20A, two virtual PLCs 200 are network-connected via virtual switch 210. Also, in private virtual space 20A, virtual network controller 220 is connected to virtual switch 210, and virtual monitoring device 230 is connected to the virtual network via virtual switch 212.

[0054] The virtual network controller 220 and / or the virtual monitoring device 230 included in the private virtual space 20A updates the assets (instance model) of the private virtual space 20A by referring to the communication information 322 and / or the production information 332 stored in the shared data storage unit 250. That is, the virtual network controller 220 and / or the virtual monitoring device 230 updates the information of the instance model of the private virtual space 20A so that it matches the information of the corresponding device of the actual configuration 30A.

[0055] By executing such an update process periodically or for each event, the assets (instance model) of the private virtual space 20A can be maintained in a state that reflects the actual configuration 30A.

[0056] [(4) Transmission of information to public virtual spaces] Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining a process related to information transmission to the public virtual space 10 in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to Fig. 6, the information transmitted from the private virtual space 20A to the public virtual space 10 is information of an instance model (instance information) converted into information of a type model (type information).

[0057] Here, the type model information (type information) includes so-called generalized information of the assets of the private virtual space 20A, excluding information specific to the actual configuration 30A. For example, the type information includes the following:

[0058] (a) A formula or function that defines characteristics such as response time, latency, processing time, and memory usage (b) Thresholds for determining the status of the allowable number of errors, the allowable number of years of operation, and state transition conditions (c) Type-specific information, such as the potential performance quirks and frequencies of devices of the same type In addition to the type information as described above, environmental information among the instance information may be transmitted to the public virtual space 10. For example, since the product life of a device depends on the environment, environmental information may be transmitted to the public virtual space 10 together with the type information, and the type model managed by the public virtual space 10 may be updated to reflect the environmental information.

[0059] Examples of environmental information include automatically or manually measured information such as temperature and humidity, information on processing load, etc. However, the environmental information is not limited to these types of information, and may be any information that can determine the trends and characteristics of environmental dependency.

[0060] [(5) Type model update] Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining a process related to updating information of a type model of the public virtual space 10 in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. With reference to Fig. 7, the information (type information) of the type models 100, 110 managed in the public virtual space 10 is given identification information 101, 111 for identifying the type. Meanwhile, the information (instance information) of the instance model managed in the private virtual space 20A is also given identification information 201, 211 for identifying the type. Models corresponding to the same type are given the same identification value and are associated with each other.

[0061] In this way, identification information for identifying the same type is given to the type model and the instance model. Note that DIDs (Decentralized Identifiers) or the like can be used as the identification information given to the model. Using a decentralized ID can facilitate management of models using a decentralized database such as a blockchain.

[0062] The subject of the model is not limited to the above-mentioned PLC, but includes networks, switches, and any devices connected to the network.

[0063] The public virtual space 10 updates the type model information based on the type information transmitted from the private virtual space 20A.

[0064] It is also possible to set an owner for the type model information managed in the public virtual space 10. In this case, the owner of the type model managed in the public virtual space 10 may decide whether or not to update the information.

[0065] In this case, for example, when any of the instance models managed by the private virtual space 20A is updated, the updated content is provided to the owner of the type model managed by the public virtual space 10 that corresponds to that instance model.

[0066] The owner selects, from the provided contents, information that should be reflected in the type model managed by the public virtual space 10. In this way, only the information selected by the owner is reflected in the type model.

[0067] By selecting the information to be reflected by such an owner, it is possible to prevent specific information from being reflected in the type model, and improve the model accuracy of the type model. Note that the owner may be a human user, or may be replaced by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) engine.

[0068] Also, an AI engine may be used to extract information on the type model to be reflected. For example, information on a large number of instance models of the same type transmitted from the private virtual space 20A may be statistically analyzed to extract information specific to the type. Furthermore, the update content of the type information may be determined by reflecting the environmental information provided from the private virtual space 20A. For example, the dependency of the environmental temperature, etc., may be estimated from the large number of pieces of information provided from the private virtual space 20A.

[0069] Through the above-described series of processes, the accuracy of the type model managed by the public virtual space 10 can be improved based on the information managed and collected by the actual configuration 30A.

[0070] [(6a) Configuration of private virtual space 20B, and (7a) Execution of simulation] Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining processing related to the configuration of a private virtual space 20B in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. With reference to Fig. 8, for example, an asset (instance model) is configured in the private virtual space 20B in correspondence with a newly realized actual configuration 30B.

[0071] More specifically, a type model corresponding to identification information 101, 111 indicating the same identification value as identification information 201, 211 for identifying the type of device used in the actual configuration 30B is selected from the information of type models 100, 110 managed by the public virtual space 10. Then, the selected type model is instantiated, and an asset (instance model) is configured in the private virtual space 20B.

[0072] More specifically, the user selects a desired device by any method and specifies the connection form and method between the devices. Then, a type model corresponding to the specified device is selected from the public virtual space 10, and information on the instance model (instance information) is reflected in the selected public. For the instance information, information collected from the private virtual space 20A may be used, or information consisting of average values ​​prepared in advance may be used.

[0073] As described above, when (a) a formula or function that defines a characteristic is used as the type information, the instance information may be calculated from the formula or function according to the target real configuration 30B or the corresponding instance model. Also, when (b) a threshold value for determining a state and / or (c) type-specific information, etc. are used as the type information, the type information may be used as it is as the instance information.

[0074] Furthermore, for information that depends on the environment, the instance information may be generated by calculating environmental factors according to the target actual configuration 30B or the corresponding instance model.

[0075] Furthermore, if necessary, a simulation is performed to verify whether or not the desired operation or processing can be executed using the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B. Depending on the result of the simulation, the instance information generated in the private virtual space 20B is appropriately updated.

[0076] By the above-described processing procedure, the behavior of the real configuration 30B can be predicted or understood in advance before the real configuration 30B is actually constructed.

[0077] [(8a) Reflection in actual configuration 30B] Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining a process related to reflection to the real configuration 30B in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to Fig. 9, as a result of a simulation using an instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B, when instance information considered to be appropriate is determined, necessary information is set in the real configuration 30B based on the determined instance information.

[0078] For example, necessary information is transmitted from the virtual network controller 220 of the private virtual space 20B to the monitoring device 330 of the actual configuration 30B. Necessary information is transmitted from the virtual monitoring device 230 of the private virtual space 20B to the monitoring device 330 of the actual configuration 30B.

[0079] Furthermore, the network controller 320 performs necessary device settings for the devices (such as the PLC 300 and the switch 310) included in the actual configuration 30B in accordance with the information from the private virtual space 20B.

[0080] As described above, the results of a simulation using an instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B can be directly reflected in the actual configuration 30B, and by realizing a highly accurate simulation, the reproducibility when reflected in the actual configuration 30B can be improved.

[0081] [(6b) Configuration of private virtual space 20B, and (7b) Execution of simulation] Fig. 10 is a diagram for explaining another process related to the configuration of the private virtual space 20B in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. With reference to Fig. 10, for example, a case is assumed in which the existing real configuration 30A is changed to the real configuration 30B. In this case as well, an asset (instance model) corresponding to the changed real configuration 30B is configured in the private virtual space 20B.

[0082] More specifically, first, an asset (instance model) corresponding to the real configuration 30A (private virtual space 20A) is copied to the private virtual space 20B. Then, a type model corresponding to the identification information 101 indicating the same identification value as the identification information 201 for specifying the type of the device to be added in the real configuration 30B is selected from the public virtual space 10. Then, the selected type model is instantiated and added to the private virtual space 20B.

[0083] More specifically, the user selects a device to be added by any method and specifies the connection form and method between the devices. Then, a type model corresponding to the specified device is selected from the public virtual space 10, and the information of the instance model (instance information) is reflected in the selected public. The process related to instantiation is the same as that shown in FIG. 8 above.

[0084] Furthermore, if necessary, a simulation is performed to verify whether or not the desired operation or processing can be executed using the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B. Depending on the result of the simulation, the instance information generated in the private virtual space 20B is appropriately updated.

[0085] By the above-described processing procedure, the behavior of the real configuration 30B can be predicted or understood in advance before the real configuration 30B is actually constructed.

[0086] [(8b) Reflection in actual configuration 30B] Fig. 11 is a diagram for explaining another process related to reflection to real configuration 30B in information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to Fig. 11, as a result of a simulation using an instance model generated in private virtual space 20B, when instance information considered to be appropriate is determined, necessary information is set in real configuration 30B based on the determined instance information.

[0087] For example, necessary information is transmitted from the virtual network controller 220 of the private virtual space 20B to the monitoring device 330 of the actual configuration 30B. Necessary information is transmitted from the virtual monitoring device 230 of the private virtual space 20B to the monitoring device 330 of the actual configuration 30B.

[0088] Furthermore, the network controller 320 makes necessary setting changes to existing devices (such as the PLC 300 and the switch 310) included in the actual configuration 30B according to the information from the private virtual space 20B, and makes necessary device settings for the added devices (such as the PLC 300).

[0089] As described above, the results of the simulation using the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B can be directly reflected in the actual configuration 30B, and a high-precision simulation can be realized, thereby enhancing the reproducibility when reflected in the actual configuration 30B.

[0090] <C. Hardware Configuration Example> (c1: Hardware Configuration Example for Realizing the Public Virtual Space 10) FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of the information processing apparatus 150 that realizes the public virtual space 10 of the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 12, the information processing apparatus 150 is an example of a computer and includes one or more processors 152, one or more main memories 154, a display unit 156, an input unit 158, one or more communication interfaces 160, and a storage 170. Each component is electrically connected via a bus 162.

[0091] The processor 152 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit), etc., and realizes various processes described below by reading various programs stored in the storage 170, expanding them into the main memory 154, and executing them.

[0092] Display unit 156 is configured with a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays the results of processing by processor 152. Input unit 158 ​​is configured with a keyboard, mouse, etc., and accepts operations from the user. Communication interface 160 exchanges data with any device.

[0093] The storage 170 is configured with a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD) and stores, for example, an OS 172, an information management program 174, and a data set 176 including type model information (type data).

[0094] 12 shows a configuration example in which the necessary functions are provided by the processor 152 executing a program, but some or all of these provided functions may be implemented using a dedicated hardwired circuit (for example, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array)). In other words, the processes executed by the information processing device 150 and the functions provided may be realized by processing circuitry including a processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, etc.

[0095] Furthermore, the public virtual space 10 may be realized by distributing a plurality of information processing devices 150, and any hardware resources may be adopted for realizing the information management system 1.

[0096] (c2: Example of hardware configuration for realizing private virtual space 20) The private virtual space 20 of the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment can also be realized by using a computer similar to the information processing device 150 shown in FIG.

[0097] (c3: Example of hardware configuration for managing and collecting information on actual configuration 30) Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a switch 310 of an information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to Fig. 13, the switch 310 is an example of a computer, and includes a processor 3102, a main memory 3104, a higher-level communication interface 3106, a field communication interface 3108, and a storage 3120. Each component is electrically connected via a bus 3110.

[0098] The processor 3102 is composed of a CPU, an MPU, a GPU, etc., and realizes the processing of the switch 310 by reading out various programs stored in the storage 3120, expanding them in the main memory 3104, and executing them.

[0099] The upper communication interface 3106 is responsible for data communication with the information processing device that realizes the private virtual space 20 .

[0100] The field communication interface 3108 is responsible for transferring frames transmitted and received from the PLC 300. The field communication interface 3108 includes a communication circuit that complies with a communication standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark).

[0101] The storage 3120 typically stores an OS 3122 for implementing basic processing, and a system program 3124 for implementing the management and collection of information as described above.

[0102] FIG. 13 shows a configuration example in which the functions necessary for the processor 3102 to execute a program are provided. However, some or all of these provided functions may be implemented using a dedicated hardwired circuit (for example, using an ASIC or an FPGA).

[0103] Also, the network controller 320 is also realized by a hardware configuration example similar to that of FIG. 13.

[0104] <D. Processing Procedure> Next, the processing procedure in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0105] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. FIG. 14 shows an example in the case including the public virtual space 10, the private virtual spaces 20A and 20B, and the actual configurations 30A and 30B.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 14, the actual configuration 30A is configured (step S2). The configured actual configuration 30A includes a collection entity that can collect information from devices included in the actual configuration 30A, such as the network controller 320 and the monitoring device 330.

[0107] Also, the information processing apparatus generates, in accordance with an instruction from the user, an asset (instance model) corresponding to the configured actual configuration 30A in the private virtual space 20A (step S4). In this way, the information processing apparatus that manages the private virtual space 20A executes a process of generating an instance model (first instance model) corresponding to the actual configuration 30A including one or more devices. Note that the instance model will be generated using the type model managed by the public virtual space 10.

[0108] The collection entity (network controller 320 or monitoring device 330) of real configuration 30A collects information from devices included in real configuration 30A (step S6) and transmits the information to private virtual space 20A (step S8). In this manner, the information processing device acquires information from one or more devices included in real configuration 30A.

[0109] The information processing device providing the private virtual space 20A calculates the error (deviation or difference) between the information from the actual configuration 30A and the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20A (step S10), and updates the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20A based on the calculated error (step S12).

[0110] In this way, the information processing device updates the instance model (first instance model) corresponding to the actual configuration 30A based on the collected information. More specifically, the information processing device calculates an error between the collected information and the instance model, and updates the instance model by changing the value of the instance model based on the calculated error.

[0111] The processing of steps S6 to S12 is repeated according to the operation and processing execution of the actual configuration 30A.

[0112] The information processing device providing the private virtual space 20A generates type model information (type information) from the updated instance model (step S14) and transmits it to the public virtual space 10 (step S16). In this way, the information processing device generates type model information based on the instance model (first instance model) corresponding to the updated actual configuration 30A.

[0113] The information processing device providing the public virtual space 10 calculates the error (deviation or difference) between the type model information from the private virtual space 20A and the type model managed by the public virtual space 10 (step S18), and updates the type model managed by the public virtual space 10 based on the calculated error (step S20). In this way, the information processing device updates the managed type model based on the generated type model information.

[0114] The processes of steps S14 to S20 are repeated as appropriate. Next, the information processing device generates an asset (instance model) corresponding to the target real configuration 30B in the private virtual space 20B according to the instruction from the user (step S22). In this way, the information processing device managing the private virtual space 20B instantiates the type model to generate an instance model (second instance model) corresponding to the real configuration 30B. Note that the instance model is generated by using the type model managed by the public virtual space 10.

[0115] Alternatively, in the processing example shown in FIG. 10 described above, the information processing device that manages the private virtual space 20B copies the instance model of the private virtual space 20A and generates an instance model in the private virtual space 20B.

[0116] Then, the user executes a desired simulation or the like using the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B (step S24). The user changes or updates parameters of the instance model depending on the results of the simulation. In this way, the information processing device that manages the private virtual space 20B executes a simulation using the newly generated instance model.

[0117] As a result of the simulation, when there is a prospect that the target performance will be achieved, the user reflects the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B in the corresponding actual configuration 30B (step S26). In this way, the information processing apparatus reflects the generated instance model in the corresponding new actual configuration 30B. More specifically, the process of reflecting the instance model includes a process of setting (copying) the parameters set in the instance model to the corresponding devices in the actual configuration. As a result, the actual configuration 30B will operate according to the settings corresponding to the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B.

[0118] Note that the processes of steps S2 to S20 and the processes of steps S22 to S26 may be executed in parallel, and the execution order does not matter.

[0119] <E. Application Example> The information management system 1 according to the present embodiment can typically be applied to the following fields.

[0120] (1) Factory Automation (FA) The information management system 1 can be applied to simulations such as communication between a controller such as a PLC for controlling devices and lines and each device. By improving communication efficiency through such simulations, control responsiveness can be enhanced and tact time can be reduced. Also, it is possible to perform pre-verification of module recombination in response to needs such as flexibly changing the manufacturing line.

[0121] (2) Building Automation (BA) The information management system 1 can be applied to simulations such as communication between a controller for controlling elevators, air conditioners, lighting, etc. and each device. By improving communication efficiency through such simulations, control responsiveness can be enhanced. Also, it is possible to perform pre-verification such as whether the usage efficiency according to the external environment and human movement can be controlled in real time.

[0122] (3) Process Automation (PA) The information management system 1 can be applied to simulations of communication between a controller for controlling equipment or processes and each device. By making communication more efficient through such simulations, control responsiveness can be improved. It can also be used to perform advance verification of whether material and power consumption can be reduced. Furthermore, in response to needs for flexible changes to the manufacturing line, advance verification of module recombination can be performed.

[0123] (4) Smart Grid The information management system 1 can be applied to simulations of communication between controllers that control wind power and solar panels and other devices. By making communication more efficient through such simulations, control responsiveness can be improved. It is also possible to perform advance verification of whether power generation efficiency and usage efficiency can be controlled in real time in response to external environmental factors.

[0124] <F.まとめ> The information management system according to the present embodiment manages type models used for simulations and the like, and can update the type models based on information provided from the actual configuration.

[0125] Generally, models used for simulations are constructed based on the results of measuring and evaluating the control performance of controllers and the communication performance of network devices during the manufacturing stage. However, depending on the measurement and evaluation methods and conditions, it may not be possible to construct a model that adequately reflects the state of the actual configuration. Therefore, even if evaluation is performed in advance using simulations, there are many cases where adjustments must be made in the actual configuration by trial and error.

[0126] The information management system according to this embodiment can calculate the error (deviation or difference) between the model and the actual configuration by correctly reflecting the state of the actual configuration in the private virtual space. By feeding back such an error between the model and the actual configuration to the public virtual space, the model accuracy of the type model managed by the public virtual space can be improved.

[0127] Furthermore, since the model managed by the public virtual space can also be used in the next simulation, the accuracy of the simulation model can be sequentially improved.

[0128] <G. Appendix> The above-described embodiment includes the following technical ideas.

[0129] [Configuration 1] An information management method executed by one or more computers (150), comprising: generating a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices (300, 310) (step S4); collecting information from the one or more devices (step S6); updating the first instance model based on the collected information (step S12); generating type model information based on the updated first instance model (step S14); and updating the managed type model based on the generated type model information (step S20).

[0130] [Configuration 2] further comprising: instantiating the type model to generate a second instance model (step S22); and reflecting the generated second instance model in a corresponding new actual configuration (step S26).

[0131] [Configuration 3] The information management method according to configuration 2, wherein the step of generating the second instance model includes a step of copying the first instance model.

[0132] [Configuration 4] The information management method according to configuration 2 or 3, further comprising a step (S24) of executing a simulation using the generated new instance model.

[0133] [Configuration 5] 5. The information management method according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the step of generating information about the type model includes a step of removing information specific to the instance model from the updated instance model.

[0134] [Configuration 6] The instance model is generated in a limited first virtual space (20); 6. The information management method according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the type model is managed in a second virtual space (10) accessible from a plurality of first virtual spaces.

[0135] [Configuration 7] 7. The information management method according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein identification information (101, 111, 201, 211) for identifying the same type is given to the type model and the instance model.

[0136] [Configuration 8] The information management method according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the step of updating the first instance model includes a step of calculating an error between the collected information and the first instance model, and changing a value of the first instance model based on the calculated error.

[0137] [Configuration 9] An information management system (1) comprising a first computer (150) and a second computer (150), The first computer comprises: A means (S4) for generating a first instance model corresponding to a real configuration including one or more devices; means (S8) for obtaining information from said one or more devices; A means for updating the first instance model based on the acquired information (S12); and generating type model information based on the updated first instance model (S14); The second computer comprises: The information management system includes a means (S20) for updating a managed type model based on the information of the generated type model.

[0138] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0139] 1 Information management system, 10 Public virtual space, 20, 20A, 20B Private virtual space, 30, 30A, 30B Actual configuration, 100, 110 Type model, 101, 111, 201, 211 Identification information, 150 Information processing device, 152, 3102 Processor, 154, 3104 Main memory, 156 Display unit, 158 Input unit, 160 Communication interface, 162, 3110 Bus, 170, 3120 Storage, 172, 3122 OS, 174 Information management program, 176 Data set, 200 Virtual PLC, 210, 212 Virtual switch, 220 Virtual network controller, 230 Virtual monitoring device, 250 Shared data storage unit, 300 PLC, 310, 312 Switch, 320 Network controller, 322 Communication information, 330 Monitoring device, 332 production information, 3106 upper communication interface, 3108 field communication interface, 3124 system program.

Claims

1. 1. An information management method executed by one or more computers, comprising: managing a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices; collecting information from the one or more devices; updating the first instance model based on the collected information; generating type model information based on the updated first instance model; and updating a managed type model based on the generated type model information.

2. instantiating the type model to generate a second instance model; The information management method according to claim 1 , further comprising: reflecting the generated second instance model in a corresponding new actual configuration.

3. The information management method according to claim 2 , wherein the step of generating the second instance model includes the step of copying the first instance model.

4. The information management method according to claim 2 , further comprising the step of executing a simulation using the generated new instance model.

5. 5. The information management method according to claim 1, wherein the step of generating information about the type model includes a step of removing information specific to the instance model from the updated instance model.

6. The instance model is managed in a limited first virtual space; 6. The information management method according to claim 1, wherein the type model is managed in a second virtual space accessible from a plurality of first virtual spaces.

7. 7. The information management method according to claim 1, wherein the type model and the instance model are given identification information for identifying the same type.

8. The information management method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the step of updating the first instance model includes a step of calculating an error between the collected information and the first instance model, and changing a value of the first instance model based on the calculated error.

9. An information management system including a first computer and a second computer, The first computer comprises: means for managing a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices; means for obtaining information from said one or more devices; means for updating the first instance model based on the acquired information; means for generating type model information based on the updated first instance model; The second computer comprises: The information management system includes a means for updating a managed type model based on the generated type model information.

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