Information management system, information management method, and information management program

Abstract

To provide a mechanism for surely reflecting information of a production site with information managed by a database.SOLUTION: An information management system includes a storage unit which stores a database containing a component list, a process chart, and a facility list. Each of the component list, the process chart, and the facility list contains a designation of an approver to contained information. The information management system includes: retrieval means which retrieves, in response to occurrence of a change to a production site or occurrence of a change to be reflected to the production site, items corresponding to change contents being the contents of the change, and retrieves an approver of the retrieved items; approval request means which requests, to the retrieved approver, approval for reflection of the change contents to the database; and updating means which reflects the change contents to the corresponding items in the database in response to the approval by the approver.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] With the development of information and communication technology, the trend towards digitalization that has been leading the way in design sites is also making inroads in production sites. More specifically, information management technologies for parts, processes, and equipment (lines), such as BOM (Bill Of Materials), BOP (Bill Of Process), and BOE (Bill of Equipment), are being introduced. In the future, it is expected that CPS (Cyber-Physical System), which digitizes design information and information on production equipment and workers, will become more widespread in order to flexibly respond to changes in production targets.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 (International Publication No. 2018 / 079185) discloses technology that integrates the entire product lifecycle, including product planning, design, production (manufacturing), operation, use, and maintenance, and integrates manufacturing management of manufacturing orders from the manufacturing site in real time. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2018 / 079185 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] One of the factors that hinders digitalization in production sites as described above is the difficulty in reliably reflecting the details of improvement activities (such as adjustments and changes made by production engineers to lines and equipment) that are carried out daily at the production site in the information that is managed. This can lead to a problem in which information cannot be properly synchronized between the information management system (cyber-physical) and the actual production site (physical).

[0006] The present invention provides a mechanism for more reliably reflecting information from the production site in information managed in a database. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An information management system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a storage unit that stores a database including a parts list, a process schedule, and an equipment list. Each of the parts list, the process schedule, and the equipment list includes a designation of an approver for the included information. The information management system includes: a search means that, in response to the occurrence of a change to a production site or the occurrence of a change to be reflected to the production site, searches the database for an item corresponding to the change content, which is the content of the change, and searches for an approver for the searched item; an approval request means that requests approval from the searched approver for reflecting the change content in the database; and an update means that, in response to approval from the approver, reflects the change content in the corresponding item in the database.

[0008] According to this configuration, when a change occurs at the production site, or when a change that needs to be reflected at the production site occurs, the information management system searches for whether or not the change needs to be reflected in the database and the person who approved the change, so that information from the production site can be reliably reflected in the information managed in the database.

[0009] The changes to the production site may include changes made to the control device at the production site. With this configuration, when an engineer changes parameters of the control device as part of daily improvement activities, the changes to the parameters can be reflected in the database.

[0010] The information management system may further include an evaluation means for evaluating whether the set values ​​included in the database are appropriate based on the production results of the production site. With this configuration, when the current set values ​​need to be changed based on the production results of the production site, not only the production site but also the information managed in the database can be changed.

[0011] The changes to be applied to the production site may be generated in response to an evaluation that the settings in the database are not valid, and this configuration makes the changes when the settings in the database are not valid, thereby avoiding the occurrence of unnecessary changes.

[0012] The information management system may further include an estimation means for estimating a trend occurring at the production site based on the production results at the production site. The occurrence of changes to be reflected at the production site may be determined based on the trends occurring at the production site. With this configuration, since the set values ​​and the like can be changed based on future predictions rather than the current production results at the production site, more effective improvements can be expected.

[0013] The information management system may further include a simulation means for performing a simulation of the production site using the model included in the database. The occurrence of changes to be reflected in the production site may be determined based on the results of the simulation by the simulation means. With this configuration, changes to be reflected in the production site can be found even before production at the production site begins.

[0014] The update means may record a log relating to the change contents in response to a disapproval from the approver. With this configuration, the change contents that the approver did not approve can be more reliably recorded.

[0015] The storage unit may store a second database in addition to the database. Changes to the production site or changes to be reflected at the production site may be provisionally reflected in the second database, and may be reflected from the second database to the database in response to approval from the approver. With this configuration, by using the second database, the contents of the changes can be temporarily managed during the period until approval is obtained from the approver. Also, even if the approver does not approve, it is possible to avoid a situation in which the database is erroneously changed.

[0016] The information management system may further include a display means for displaying a user interface screen for receiving approval from the approver. The user interface screen may include the changes for which approval is requested. With this configuration, the approver can more appropriately understand the changes for which approval is requested and then determine whether or not to approve.

[0017] An information management method according to another embodiment of the present invention includes a step of storing a database including a parts list, a process schedule, and an equipment list in a storage unit. Each of the parts list, the process schedule, and the equipment list includes a designation of an approver for the included information. The information management method includes a step of searching the database for an item corresponding to the change content, which is the content of the change, in response to the occurrence of a change to a production site or the occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site, and searching for an approver for the searched item, a step of requesting approval from the searched approver for reflecting the change content in the database, and a step of reflecting the change content in the corresponding item in the database in response to the approval from the approver.

[0018] According to yet another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an information management program for causing a computer to execute an information management method. The computer includes a storage unit for storing a database including a parts list, a process schedule, and an equipment list, and each of the parts list, the process schedule, and the equipment list includes a designation of an approver for the included information. The information management program causes the computer to execute the steps of: in response to the occurrence of a change to a production site or the occurrence of a change to be reflected to the production site, searching the database for an item corresponding to the change content, which is the content of the change, and searching for an approver for the searched item; requesting approval from the searched approver for reflecting the change content in the database; and, in response to approval from the approver, reflecting the change content in the corresponding item in the database. Effect of the Invention

[0019] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism for more reliably reflecting information from the production site in information managed in a database. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0020] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of an information management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a system configuration of an information management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 3] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a management device according to the present embodiment; [Figure 4] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a control device according to the present embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 5] 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an integrated management database of an information management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a relationship between an integrated management database and a designer (approver) in the information management system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 7] 1 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a processing procedure in an information management system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] It is a schematic diagram showing an example of a user interface screen presented to an approver in the information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a schematic diagram for explaining the change process based on production results in the information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a sequence diagram showing another example of the processing procedure in the information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a flowchart showing an example of the processing content for determining the change content based on production results in the information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a schematic diagram for explaining the change process based on simulation results in the information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a sequence diagram showing still another example of the processing procedure in the information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 14] It is a schematic diagram for explaining the change process based on the difference between simulation results and production results in the information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 15] It is a sequence diagram showing still another example of the processing procedure in the information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 16] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for updating an integrated management database in the information management system according to this embodiment. [Figure 17] It is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for searching for an approver in the information management system according to this embodiment.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0021] Embodiments of the present invention 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 their descriptions will not be repeated.

[0022] <A. Application Example> First, an example of the overall configuration of the information management system 1 according to this embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing an overview of the information management system 1 according to this embodiment.

[0023] Referring to FIG. 1, the information management system 1 has an integrated management database 130 including a parts list 132 corresponding to a BOM, a process list 134 corresponding to a BOP, and a facility list 136 corresponding to a BOE. Each of the parts list 132, the process list 134, and the facility list 136 includes a designation of an approver for the information included.

[0024] The information management system 1 includes a search module 20, an approval request module 30, and an update module 40.

[0025] In response to the occurrence of a change in the production site or the occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site, the search module 20 searches the integrated management database 130 for items corresponding to the change content, which is the content of the change. Further, the search module 20 searches for the approver of the searched item.

[0026] The approval request module 30 requests the approver searched by the search module 20 for approval to reflect the change content in the integrated management database 130.

[0027] In response to approval from the approver, the update module 40 reflects the change content in the corresponding item of the integrated management database 130.

[0028] By such a series of processing procedures, the information at the production site can be reliably reflected by the information managed in the database.

[0029] <B. System configuration example of the information management system 1> FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a system configuration example of the information management system 1 according to this embodiment. Referring to FIG. 2, the information management system 1 includes a management device 100, a control device 200, and one or more information processing devices 300.

[0030] The management device 100 and the control device 200 are connected via the network 2. The management device 100 and one or more information processing devices 300 are connected via the network 4.

[0031] The management device 100 has an integrated management database 130. Information for managing production is stored in the integrated management database 130.

[0032] The control device 200 is typically composed of a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) or the like and is responsible for controlling the production facility 10.

[0033] The information processing device 300 is typically a general-purpose computer and is responsible for providing information and accepting approvals as described later.

[0034] <C. Hardware Configuration Example of Information Management System 1> (c1: Management Device 100) FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration example of the management device 100 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 3, the management device 100 is an example of a computer and includes one or more processors 102, one or more main memories 104, a display unit 106, an input unit 108, one or more communication interfaces 110, and a storage 120. Each component is electrically connected via a bus 112.

[0035] The processor 102 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit), etc. By reading out the information management program 124 stored in the storage 120 and expanding and executing it in the main memory 104, the processing related to information management as described later is realized. That is, the information management program 124 causes the management device 100, which is a computer, to execute the information management method according to the present embodiment.

[0036] The display unit 106 is configured with a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays the results of processing by the processor 102. The input unit 108 is configured with a keyboard, mouse, etc., and accepts operations from the user. The communication interface 110 exchanges data with any device.

[0037] The storage 120 is configured with a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD) and is a storage unit that stores, for example, an OS 122, an information management program 124, and a data set corresponding to an integrated management database 130.

[0038] 3 shows an example of a configuration in which the necessary functions are provided by the processor 102 executing the information management program 124, 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 management device 100 and the functions provided may be realized by processing circuitry including a processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, etc.

[0039] Furthermore, a plurality of management devices 100 may be distributed to realize the processes described below, and any hardware resources may be adopted to realize the information management system 1.

[0040] (c2: control device 200) Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a control device 200 according to the present embodiment. Referring to Fig. 4, the control device 200 is an example of a computer, and includes a processor 202, a main memory 204, a communication interface 206, an input / output unit 208, and a storage 220. Each component is electrically connected via a bus 210.

[0041] The processor 202 is composed of a CPU, MPU, GPU, etc., reads out various programs stored in the storage 220, expands them in the main memory 204, and executes them, thereby realizing the processing as the control device 200.

[0042] The communication interface 206 is responsible for data communication with the management device 100. The input / output unit 208 is responsible for signal exchange with the production facility 10.

[0043] Typically, the storage 220 stores a system program 222 for realizing the basic processing of the control device 200, a user program 224 for controlling the production facility 10, and parameters 226 including settings referred to in the processing of the user program 224.

[0044] FIG. 4 shows a configuration example in which functions necessary for the processor 202 to execute a program are provided. However, some or all of these provided functions may be implemented using a dedicated hardwired circuit (e.g., ASIC or FPGA).

[0045] (c3: Information processing device 300) The information processing device 300 according to the present embodiment can also be realized using a general-purpose computer similar to the management device 100 shown in FIG. 3.

[0046] <D. Integrated management database 130> Next, the details of the integrated management database 130 will be described.

[0047] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the integrated management database 130 of the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 5, the integrated management database 130 includes a parts list 132 corresponding to the BOM, a process list 134 corresponding to the BOP, and a facility list 136 corresponding to the BOE.

[0048] The parts list 132 includes information regarding the parts that make up the product, such as a part ID 1321 that identifies each part, setting items 1322 that include information that is appropriately set for each part, and design information 1323 that includes information related to the design of each part.

[0049] Process schedule 134 includes information regarding the processes for producing a product, such as a process ID 1341 that identifies each process, setting items 1342 that include information that is set appropriately for each process, design information 1343 that includes information related to the design of each process, a part ID 1344 that identifies one or more parts to be used, and an equipment ID 1345 that identifies one or more pieces of equipment to be used.

[0050] The equipment table 136 includes information regarding equipment for producing products, such as an equipment ID 1361 for identifying each piece of equipment, setting items 1362 including information that is appropriately set for each piece of equipment, and design information 1363 including information related to the design of each piece of equipment.

[0051] By using the above three types of tables, a series of information required for the production of a product can be managed. In addition, the three types of tables may be used to generate work instructions 140 for workers.

[0052] The parts list 132, the schedule 134, and the equipment list 136 all contain setting items (setting items 1322, 1342, 1362) that can be changed arbitrarily. In addition to names, these setting items also contain reference values ​​(reference values ​​1327, 1347, 1367). Usually, the reference values ​​are defined as a reference range with a predetermined width, taking into account variations, etc.

[0053] Moreover, the parts table 132, the schedule 134, and the equipment table 136 each contain design information (design information 1323, 1343, 1363) which is information related to design. These pieces of design information contain designers (designers 1328, 1348, 1368) and validation models (validation models 1329, 1349, 1369). Each piece of design information may also contain a drawing ID that identifies the target drawing. The designer included in the design information may also be the approver for the corresponding information. In this way, each of the parts table 132, the schedule 134, and the equipment table 136 contains the designation of the approver for the included information.

[0054] Typically, the information contained in the integrated management database 130 is managed by different designers or approvers.

[0055] 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a relationship between the integrated management database 130 and designers (approvers) of the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. With reference to FIG. 6, a process designer 152, a line designer 154, and an equipment and jig designer 156 may be involved in the parts list 132, the process list 134, and the equipment list 136 included in the integrated management database 130.

[0056] A process designer 152 is an engineer responsible for designing a process, a line designer 154 is an engineer responsible for designing a line, and an equipment and tool designer 156 is an engineer responsible for designing equipment and tools included in the line.

[0057] The division of designers is not limited to the division shown in Figure 6, and any division can be made according to the size of the organization, etc. Even if the division is made by responsibility, the same engineer may be in charge of multiple responsibilities.

[0058] The parts list 132, schedule 134, and equipment list 136 contain information about the designers (designers 1328, 1348, 1368), and any changes or updates to the information contained in the integrated management database 130 require approval from the associated designer (or approver).

[0059] <E. Synchronization with the production site and the integrated management database 130> Some processing examples for realizing the synchronization between the production site and the integrated management database 130 will be described.

[0060] For example, the person in charge of production technology or the manufacturing manager changes and adjusts the equipment and lines at the production site in order to achieve goals such as improving production capacity and reducing the defective rate. Examples of changes and adjustments include changes in the work order, changes in the equipment and jigs used, changes in the operator, and changes in the device parameters.

[0061] The information management system 1 according to the present embodiment can easily reflect the change contents in the production site in the integrated management database 130.

[0062] (e1: Reflection of change contents by engineers) First, a processing example for reflecting the change contents by engineers such as the person in charge of production technology or the manufacturing manager in the integrated management database 130 will be described.

[0063] FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the processing procedure in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. The processing procedure shown in FIG. 7 is executed by an engineer who changes and adjusts the equipment and lines at the production site, as well as an approver (designer) related to the change and adjustment, in addition to the management device 100, the control device 200, and the information processing device 300.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 7, the engineer performs an arbitrary change operation on the production site (sequence SQ2). The control device 200 changes the parameters according to the change operation by the engineer (sequence SQ4). An example of the change operation includes changing the set value of the screw tightening torque.

[0065] The control device 200 notifies the management device 100 of the parameter change (sequence SQ6). The management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 and searches for an item corresponding to the notified parameter change (sequence SQ8). The integrated management database 130 then determines whether or not the corresponding item needs to be changed (sequence SQ10).

[0066] More specifically, the management device 100 searches the parts table 132, the process table 134, and the equipment table 136 for setting items (setting items 1322, 1342, 1362) corresponding to the notified parameter. If the management device 100 does not find a corresponding setting item, it determines that the corresponding item does not need to be changed. On the other hand, if a corresponding setting item is found, the management device 100 determines whether the value of the changed parameter deviates from the reference value (or reference range) included in the setting item.

[0067] If the value does not deviate from the reference value (or the reference range), the management device 100 determines that the corresponding item does not need to be changed. On the other hand, if the value deviates from the reference value (or the reference range), the management device 100 determines that the corresponding item needs to be changed.

[0068] If it is determined that the corresponding item needs to be changed (YES in sequence SQ10), the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 and searches for an approver for the corresponding item (sequence SQ12).

[0069] In this way, in response to the occurrence of a change to the production site, the management device 100 searches the integrated management database 130 for an item corresponding to the change content, which is the content of the change, and searches for an approver of the searched item (sequences SQ6 to SQ12). In the processing procedure shown in Fig. 7, the change to the production site includes the change content made to the control device 200 at the production site.

[0070] Then, the management device 100 notifies the information processing device 300 of the approver of details of the changes and an approval request for the changes (sequence SQ14).

[0071] The details of the change to be notified to the approver include (1) identification information such as the equipment ID 1345, (2) the target setting item and the new setting value, and (3) evidence. Evidence may include, for example, production results including inspection results in the inspection process when the standard value is deviated from.

[0072] In this manner, the management device 100 requests the searched approver to approve the reflection of the changes in the integrated management database 130 (sequence SQ14).

[0073] The information processing device 300 displays the details of the changes sent from the management device 100 and a request for approval of the changes (sequence SQ16), and waits for an operation from the approver.

[0074] When the approver approves the approval request (sequence SQ18), the information processing device 300 transmits an approval notification to the management device 100 (sequence SQ20). The management device 100 changes the corresponding item in the integrated management database 130 in accordance with the approval notification (sequence SQ22). In this way, in response to the approval from the approver, the management device 100 reflects the changes in the corresponding item in the integrated management database 130 (sequence SQ22).

[0075] The management device 100 generates a new work instruction sheet 140 based on the updated integrated management database 130 as necessary (sequence SQ24), and the series of processes then ends.

[0076] On the other hand, if the approver does not approve the approval request (sequence SQ26), the information processing device 300 transmits a notice of disapproval to the management device 100 (sequence SQ28). In accordance with the notice of disapproval from the approver, the management device 100 generates the items that were not approved and related information (sequence SQ30) and notifies the engineer who performed the change operation (sequence SQ32). The engineer reconsiders the contents of the change operation as necessary. Then, the series of processes ends.

[0077] Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a user interface screen presented to an approver in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to Fig. 8, a user interface screen 350 is displayed on a display of the information processing device 300 or the like. More specifically, the user interface screen 350 includes changes 354 for which approval is requested, in addition to a message 352 indicating that approval is requested.

[0078] After checking the contents displayed on the user interface screen 350, the approver selects the approve button 356 if he / she approves, or selects the disapproval button 358 if he / she does not approve. The information processing device 300 transmits an approval notice or a disapproval notice to the management device 100 according to the button selected by the approver.

[0079] In this manner, the information processing device 300 displays a user interface screen 350 for receiving approval from the approver. The user interface screen 350 includes changes 354 for which approval is being requested.

[0080] By the above-mentioned processing, changes made by engineers such as production engineers and manufacturing managers can be reflected in the integrated management database 130.

[0081] (e2: Deciding and reflecting changes based on production results) Next, a process example will be described in which changes are determined based on production results and the determined changes are reflected in the integrated management database 130.

[0082] Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining change processing based on production results in the information management system 1 according to this embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 9, the information management system 1 manages a line having an inspection facility 12 in charge of an inspection process in addition to a production facility 10 in charge of an assembly process. In the information management system 1, a process evaluation process 160 and an approval / change process 164 are executed.

[0083] The process evaluation process 160 includes a process for determining whether or not changes are necessary for the integrated management database 130 and proposing the contents of the changes, based on production results 162 acquired from the production equipment 10 and the inspection equipment 12.

[0084] The production results 162 include, for example, an equipment ID that identifies the target equipment, a process ID that identifies the target process, a part ID that identifies the target part, manufacturing conditions including setting values, and processing / inspection results.

[0085] The process evaluation process 160 includes, for example, a process of determining whether or not a standard value (or a standard range) needs to be changed depending on whether or not the inspection result by the inspection equipment 12 deviates from the corresponding standard value (or a standard range). Alternatively, the process evaluation process 160 includes a process of determining whether or not the production performance 162 deviates from the assumption at the time of design to an unacceptable extent by using a verification model (verification models 1329, 1349, 1369) included in the design information (design information 1323, 1343, 1363) of the parts table 132, the process table 134, and the equipment table 136, and determining whether or not the corresponding information needs to be changed.

[0086] In this way, the management device 100 evaluates whether the setting values ​​included in the integrated management database 130 are appropriate based on the production results of the production site. Then, changes to be reflected in the production site are generated in response to an evaluation that the setting values ​​included in the integrated management database 130 are not appropriate.

[0087] Furthermore, the process evaluation process 160 includes a process for determining recommended values ​​for the changes when it is determined that changes to the integrated management database 130 are necessary.

[0088] The approval / change process 164 includes a process for notifying an approval request to the approver of the change target when the process evaluation process 160 determines that a change is necessary. Furthermore, the approval / change process 164 includes a process for changing the corresponding item in the integrated management database 130 and changing the corresponding item (parameter 226) in the control device 200 in response to approval from the approver. By changing the integrated management database 130 and the control device 200 simultaneously through the approval / change process 164, the production site and the integrated management database 130 can be synchronized.

[0089] Fig. 10 is a sequence diagram showing another example of the processing procedure in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. The processing procedure shown in Fig. 10 is executed by the management device 100, the control device 200, and the information processing device 300, as well as an approver (designer) involved in the changes and adjustments.

[0090] 10, control device 200 controls the line (sequence SQ52). Then, control device 200 transmits production result 162 to management device 100 (sequence SQ54).

[0091] The management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 and searches for an item corresponding to the production result 162 transmitted from the control device 200 (sequence SQ56). Then, the management device 100 determines whether or not a change is required for the searched item (sequence SQ58).

[0092] When it is determined that the corresponding item needs to be changed (YES in sequence SQ58), the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 and searches for an approver for the corresponding item (sequence SQ60). In this way, in response to the occurrence of a change that should be reflected in the production site, the management device 100 searches the integrated management database 130 for an item corresponding to the change content, which is the content of the change, and searches for an approver for the searched item (sequences SQ54 to SQ60).

[0093] Then, the management device 100 notifies the approver's information processing device 300 of the details of the changes and an approval request for the changes (sequence SQ62). That is, the management device 100 requests the searched approver to approve reflecting the changes in the integrated management database 130 (sequence SQ62).

[0094] Information processing device 300 displays the details of the changes sent from management device 100 and a request for approval of the changes (sequence SQ64), and waits for an operation from the approver.

[0095] When the approver approves the approval request (sequence SQ66), the information processing device 300 transmits an approval notice to the management device 100 (sequence SQ68). The management device 100 changes the corresponding item in the integrated management database 130 in accordance with the approval notice (sequence SQ70). In this way, in response to the approval from the approver, the management device 100 reflects the changes in the corresponding item in the integrated management database 130 (sequence SQ22).

[0096] Moreover, the management device 100 transmits a change instruction for the corresponding parameter to the control device 200 (sequence SQ72). The control device 200 changes the corresponding parameter in accordance with the change instruction from the management device 100 (sequence SQ74). Then, the series of processes ends.

[0097] On the other hand, if the approver does not approve the approval request (sequence SQ76), the information processing device 300 transmits a notice of disapproval to the management device 100 (sequence SQ78). In accordance with the notice of disapproval from the approver, the management device 100 records a log of the items that were not approved and related information (sequence SQ80). In this way, the management device 100 may record a log related to the changes in response to the disapproval from the approver. Then, the series of processes ends.

[0098] 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a process for determining changes based on production results in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 11, the management device 100 acquires the production results 162 from the control device 200 (step S2).

[0099] The management device 100 judges whether or not the defect rate exceeds a predetermined value based on the acquired production performance 162 (step S4).

[0100] Furthermore, the management device 100 judges whether the abnormality or defect rate that may occur in the future, which is predicted based on the trends appearing in the acquired production record 162, exceeds a predetermined judgment value (step S6). The abnormality or defect rate that may occur in the future can be calculated by anomaly detection or the like. In this way, the management device 100 estimates the trends that may occur in the production site based on the production record 162 of the production site.

[0101] If the defect rate exceeds a predetermined value (YES in step S4), or if a possible abnormality or defect rate exceeds a predetermined judgment value (YES in step S6), the management device 100 determines a process and equipment having a causal relationship from the process ID 1341 of the inspection process and the process chart 134 (step S8). For example, the management device 100 determines the target process and equipment based on the inspection result included in the production performance 162 and the causal relationship defined in the process chart 134.

[0102] Next, the management device 100 calculates more appropriate setting values ​​or setting ranges based on the inspection results in the inspection process, the setting items of the corresponding process and equipment, and the production record 162 or the corresponding verification models (verification models 1329, 1349, 1369) (step S10).

[0103] The management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 and searches for an approver associated with the corresponding setting item (step S12). Finally, the management device 100 notifies the approver of the target item and the recommended new setting value (or setting range) (step S14). The content notified to the approver may include the simulation result using the verification model.

[0104] In this manner, the occurrence of changes to be reflected in the production site may be determined based on trends occurring in the production site.

[0105] (e3: Deciding and reflecting changes based on simulation results) Next, a process example will be described in which changes are determined based on the simulation results and the determined changes are reflected in the integrated management database 130.

[0106] Fig. 12 is a schematic diagram for explaining a change process based on a simulation result in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 12, a simulation process 166 and an approval / change process 164 are executed in the information management system 1.

[0107] The simulation process 166 includes a process of evaluating whether or not manufacturing conditions, including set values, are appropriate by using verification models (verification models 1329, 1349, 1369) included in the design information (design information 1323, 1343, 1363) of the parts table 132, process table 134, and equipment table 136 in the integrated management database 130. Furthermore, the simulation process 166 includes a process of judging whether or not changes are necessary for the integrated management database 130 and proposing the contents of the changes, based on the simulation results, etc.

[0108] When the simulation process 166 is executed as a preliminary verification before operation, the production facility 10 and the inspection facility 12 are not necessarily required.

[0109] In the simulation process 166, a verification environment, which is an environment for implementing a simulation, is configured using the verification model and manufacturing conditions (verification conditions).

[0110] The approval / change process 164 includes a process for notifying the approver of the change target of an approval request when the simulation process 166 determines that a change is necessary. Furthermore, the approval / change process 164 includes a process for changing the corresponding item in the integrated management database 130 and changing the corresponding item (parameter 226) in the control device 200 in response to approval from the approver. By changing the integrated management database 130 and the control device 200 simultaneously through the approval / change process 164, the production site and the integrated management database 130 can be synchronized.

[0111] The approver is presented with evidence, such as the simulation environment (verification environment), the target setting items and new setting values, and the simulation results, together with the approval request.

[0112] Fig. 13 is a sequence diagram showing yet another example of the processing procedure in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. The processing procedure shown in Fig. 13 is executed by the management device 100, the control device 200, and the information processing device 300, as well as an approver (designer) involved in the changes and adjustments.

[0113] 13, the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 and generates a simulation model of the line using the target verification model (sequence SQ82). The management device 100 evaluates whether the manufacturing conditions, including the setting values ​​included in the integrated management database 130, are appropriate or not based on the simulation results using the generated simulation model (sequence SQ84). In this way, the management device 100 performs a simulation of the production site using the verification model in the integrated management database 130.

[0114] If the manufacturing conditions etc. are not appropriate (NO in sequence SQ84), management device 100 refers to integrated management database 130 to search for items to be changed and determines the changes to be made to the searched items (sequence SQ86). In this way, the occurrence of changes to be reflected in the production site is determined based on the simulation results.

[0115] Furthermore, management device 100 refers to integrated management database 130 to search for approvers for the corresponding items (sequence SQ60).

[0116] In this way, in response to the occurrence of a change that should be reflected in the production site, the management device 100 searches the integrated management database 130 for an item corresponding to the content of the change, which is the content of the change, and searches for an approver for the searched item (sequences SQ84 to SQ86, SQ60).

[0117] Then, the management device 100 notifies the approver's information processing device 300 of the details of the changes and an approval request for the changes (sequence SQ62). That is, the management device 100 requests the searched approver to approve reflecting the changes in the integrated management database 130 (sequence SQ62).

[0118] Thereafter, processes similar to those in sequences SQ64 to SQ80 shown in Fig. 10 are executed. Description of these processes will not be repeated.

[0119] (e4: Deciding and reflecting changes based on the difference between simulation results and production results) Next, a process example will be described in which changes are determined based on the difference between the simulation result and the production performance, and the determined changes are reflected in the integrated management database 130.

[0120] Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram for explaining a change process based on a difference between a simulation result and a production performance in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. In the example shown in Fig. 14, a simulation process 166 and an approval / change process 164 are executed in the information management system 1.

[0121] The simulation process 166 includes a process of performing a simulation using verification models (verification models 1329, 1349, 1369) included in the design information (design information 1323, 1343, 1363) of the parts table 132, the process table 134, and the equipment table 136 of the integrated management database 130. Furthermore, the simulation process 166 includes a process of judging whether or not changes are necessary for the integrated management database 130 and proposing the contents of the changes based on the simulation results and the production record 162. That is, the simulation process 166 includes a process of judging whether or not the prior simulation results and the production record 162 deviate to an unacceptable degree, and judging whether or not the corresponding information needs to be changed.

[0122] In the simulation process 166, a verification environment, which is an environment for implementing a simulation, is configured using the verification model and manufacturing conditions (verification conditions).

[0123] The approval / change process 164 includes a process for notifying the approver of the change target of an approval request when the simulation process 166 determines that a change is necessary. Furthermore, the approval / change process 164 includes a process for changing the corresponding item in the integrated management database 130 and changing the corresponding item (parameter 226) in the control device 200 in response to approval from the approver. By changing the integrated management database 130 and the control device 200 simultaneously through the approval / change process 164, the production site and the integrated management database 130 can be synchronized.

[0124] Fig. 15 is a sequence diagram showing yet another example of the processing procedure in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. The processing procedure shown in Fig. 15 is executed by the management device 100, the control device 200, and the information processing device 300, as well as an approver (designer) involved in the changes and adjustments.

[0125] 15, the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 and generates a simulation model of the line using the target verification model (sequence SQ90). The management device 100 executes a simulation using the generated simulation model and obtains the simulation result (sequence SQ92). The management device 100 also obtains the production record 162 from the control device 200 (sequence SQ94).

[0126] Next, management device 100 judges whether or not the simulation result and production performance 162 deviate to an unacceptable degree (sequence SQ96).

[0127] If the simulation results deviate from the production results 162 to an unacceptable extent (YES in sequence SQ96), the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 to search for items to be changed and determines the change contents of the searched items (sequence SQ98). Further, the management device 100 refers to the integrated management database 130 to search for the approvers of the corresponding items (sequence SQ60). In this way, in response to the occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site, the management device 100 searches the integrated management database 130 for the items corresponding to the change contents that are the contents of the change, and searches for the approvers of the searched items (sequences SQ90 to SQ98, SQ60).

[0128] Then, the management device 100 notifies the approver's information processing device 300 of the details of the change contents and the approval request for the change contents (sequence SQ62). That is, the management device 100 requests the searched approver to approve reflecting the change contents in the integrated management database 130 (sequence SQ62).

[0129] Hereinafter, the same processing as sequences SQ64 to SQ80 shown in FIG. 10 is executed. The description of these processes will not be repeated.

[0130] <F. Method for Updating the Integrated Management Database 130> In the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment, after the approver approves, the change to the integrated management database 130 becomes effective. Therefore, until the approval request is notified and approval or disapproval is determined, the change to the integrated management database 130 is kept in a reserved state. Therefore, in addition to the production integrated management database 130, one or more backup integrated management databases 130A may be prepared.

[0131] FIG. 16 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for updating the integrated management database 130 in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 16, the information management system 1 has a preliminary integrated management database 130A in addition to the integrated management database 130. In this way, in addition to the integrated management database 130, the storage 120 of the management device 100 may store the integrated management database 130A as a second integrated management database.

[0132] When there is any change request, the corresponding change content is reflected in the integrated management database 130A (temporary change). After that, when the approval request for the change content is approved, the change content in the integrated management database 130A is reflected in the integrated management database 130.

[0133] If the approval request is not approved, the change to the integrated management database 130A is reverted (rolled back). By such processing, the information in the integrated management database 130 is not changed without approval.

[0134] As shown in FIG. 16, the management device 100 temporarily reflects the change to the production site or the change to be reflected in the production site in the preliminary integrated management database 130A, and may reflect it from the integrated management database 130A to the integrated management database 130 in response to approval from the approver. By preparing such a preliminary integrated management database 130A, it is possible to more easily realize the change process for the information included in the integrated management database 130.

[0135] <G. Approver> In the above description, the process of searching for an approver from the designers (designers 1328, 1348, 1368) described in the design information such as the parts list 132, the process list 134, and the equipment list 136 has been mainly described.

[0136] However, the design process may be hierarchical and may involve multiple approvers. As an example of such a hierarchical design process, a form in which a plurality of processes such as process design, line design, equipment and jig design are hierarchically connected as described above is assumed. As a result, there will be multiple approvers for each level. In such a case, one or more approvers may be retrieved by referring to the information of the hierarchical design process.

[0137] FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining an example of a method for retrieving an approver in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 17, the information management system 1 may further include design hierarchy information 170. The design hierarchy information 170 indicates a hierarchical structure such as process design, line design, equipment and jig design. The design hierarchy information 170 may be stored in the management device 100.

[0138] In the example shown in FIG. 17, a plurality of pieces of equipment (equipment A, equipment B, equipment C) are associated with process 1. For example, when reflecting some information for process 1, it may be necessary to obtain approvals not only from the approver for process 1 but also from the approvers for each of the plurality of pieces of equipment associated with process 1.

[0139] Therefore, the management device 100 can identify the levels and targets that require approval by referring to the design hierarchy information 170, and can also retrieve the approvers for the identified one or more targets.

[0140] By referring to such design hierarchy information 170, even if the design process is hierarchical, all relevant approvers can be retrieved, so that the necessary information can be appropriately and reliably reflected in the design information. In addition, the on-site information obtained from the production site can be appropriately fed back to the design information by ensuring that it can be reflected in the design information only when it is approved from the perspective of the approvers at each level.

[0141] <H. Supplementary Note> The present embodiment as described above includes the following technical idea.

[0142] [Configuration 1] a storage unit (120) for storing a database (130) including a bill of materials (BOM) (132), a bill of process (BOP) (134), and a bill of equipment (BOE) (136), each of the bill of materials, the bill of process, and the bill of equipment (BOE) including designations (1328, 1348, 1368) of approvers for the information included therein; a search means (20) for searching the database for an item corresponding to the content of the change in response to the occurrence of a change in the production site or the occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site, and for searching for an approver of the searched item; an approval request means (30) for requesting approval for reflecting the changes in the database from the searched approver; and an update means (40) for, in response to approval from the approver, updating the content of the change in the corresponding item of the database.

[0143] [Configuration 2] 2. The information management system according to claim 1, wherein the changes to the production site include changes made to a control device (200) at the production site.

[0144] [Configuration 3] Further, an evaluation means (SQ84) is provided for evaluating whether the set values ​​included in the database are appropriate based on the production results of the production site, 3. The information management system according to claim 1, wherein the changes to be reflected in the production site are generated in response to an evaluation that the setting values ​​included in the database are not valid.

[0145] [Configuration 4] The method further includes estimating a tendency occurring at the production site based on the production record of the production site (S6), 4. The information management system according to any one of configurations 1 to 3, wherein occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site is determined based on a trend occurring in the production site.

[0146] [Configuration 5] The system further includes a simulation means (SQ82) for performing a simulation of the production site using a model included in the database, 5. The information management system according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site is determined based on a simulation result by the simulation means.

[0147] [Configuration 6] 6. The information management system according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the update means records a log relating to the change content in response to a disapproval from the approver (SQ80).

[0148] [Configuration 7] The storage unit stores a second database (130A) in addition to the database, An information management system according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein changes to the production site or changes to be reflected at the production site are provisionally reflected in the second database, and are reflected from the second database to the database in response to approval from the approver.

[0149] [Configuration 8] The system further includes a display means (300) for displaying a user interface screen (350) for receiving approval from the approver, 8. The information management system according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the user interface screen includes changes (354) for which approval is requested.

[0150] [Configuration 9] a step of storing a database (130) including a bill of materials (BOM) (132), a bill of process (BOP) (134), and a bill of equipment (BOE) (136) in a storage unit (120), each of the bill of materials, the bill of process, and the bill of equipment (BOE) including designations (1328, 1348, 1368) of approvers for the information included therein; In response to the occurrence of a change to the production site or the occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site, a step of searching the database for an item corresponding to the content of the change, which is the content of the change, and searching for an approver of the searched item (SQ6 to SQ12, SQ54 to SQ60, SQ84, SQ86); a step of requesting the searched approver to approve the reflection of the changes in the database (SQ14, SQ62); and responding to approval from the approver, reflecting the changes in the corresponding items in the database (SQ22, SQ62).

[0151] [Configuration 10] An information management program (124) for causing a computer (100) to execute an information management method, the computer having a storage unit (120) for storing a database (130) including a bill of materials (BOM) (132), a bill of process (BOP) (134), and a bill of equipment (BOE) (136), each of the bill of materials, the bill of process, and the bill of equipment (BOE) including designations (1328, 1348, 1368) of approvers for included information, the information management program causing the computer to: In response to the occurrence of a change to the production site or the occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site, a step of searching the database for an item corresponding to the content of the change, which is the content of the change, and searching for an approver of the searched item (SQ6 to SQ12, SQ54 to SQ60, SQ84, SQ86); requesting approval from the retrieved approver to reflect the changes in the database (SQ14, SQ62); An information management program that executes, in response to approval from the approver, a step of reflecting the changes in corresponding items of the database (SQ22, SQ62).

[0152] <I. Advantages> In the information management system according to this embodiment, for example, when content to be changed is found during line construction or line operation, or when it is determined that a change is necessary based on production results or future predictions, the items to which the change should be reflected and the approver for the change are retrieved, so the change content can be easily reflected in the integrated management database. As a result, a situation where a change is made only to the production site and the content of the change is not reflected in the integrated management database can be avoided. That is, according to the information management system according to this embodiment, the information at the production site can be surely reflected by the information managed in the database.

[0153] Also, in the information management system according to this embodiment, the information obtained by improvement activities daily carried out at the production site can be appropriately reflected in the design information. That is, items such as (1) deviation from the premise at the time of design and (2) 4M (man, machine, material, method) variations that could not be considered at the time of design can be reflected in the design information.

[0154] The embodiments disclosed this time should be considered illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the above description but by the claims, and it is intended that all changes within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are included.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0155] 1 Information management system, 2,4 Network, 10 Production equipment, 12 Inspection equipment, 20 Search module, 30 Approval request module, 40 Update module, 100 Management device, 102, 202 Processor, 104, 204 Main memory, 106 Display unit, 108 Input unit, 110, 206 Communication interface, 112, 210 Bus, 120, 220 Storage, 122 OS, 124 Information management program, 130, 130A Integrated management database, 132 Parts list, 134 Process chart, 136 Equipment chart, 140 Work instructions, 152 Process designer, 154 Line designer, 156 Equipment and fixture designer, 160 Process evaluation processing, 162 Production results, 164 Change processing, 166 Simulation processing, 170 Design hierarchy information, 200 Control device, 208 Input / output unit, 222 system program, 224 user program, 226 parameter, 300 information processing device, 350 user interface screen, 352 message, 354 change content, 356 approve button, 358 disapprove button, 1321, 1344 part ID, 1322, 1342, 1362 setting item, 1323, 1343, 1363 design information, 1327, 1347, 1367 reference value, 1328, 1348, 1368 designer, 1329, 1349, 1369 verification model, 1341 process ID, 1345, 1361 equipment ID.

Claims

1. a storage unit for storing a database including a bill of materials (BOM), a bill of process (BOP), and a bill of equipment (BOE), each of the bill of materials, the bill of process, and the bill of equipment including a designation of an approver for the information included therein; a search means for searching the database for an item corresponding to a change content, which is a content of the change, in response to the occurrence of a change to the production site or the occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site, and for searching an approver of the searched item, the change including a change in a parameter of a control device at the production site; an approval request means for requesting approval for reflecting the changes in the database from the searched approver; and an update means for updating the corresponding item in the database in response to approval from the approver.

2. further comprising an evaluation means for evaluating whether the set values ​​included in the database are appropriate based on the production results of the production site; 2. The information management system of claim 1, wherein the changes to be reflected in the production site are generated in response to an evaluation that the settings included in the database are not valid.

3. Further comprising an estimation means for estimating a tendency occurring at the production site based on a production record of the production site, 3. The information management system according to claim 1, wherein occurrence of a change to be reflected in said production site is determined based on a trend occurring in said production site.

4. a simulation means for performing a simulation of the production site by using a model included in the database, 4. The information management system according to claim 1, wherein occurrence of a change to be reflected in said production site is determined based on a result of a simulation by said simulation means.

5. 5. The information management system according to claim 1, wherein the update means records a log relating to the change content in response to a non-approval from the approver.

6. The storage unit stores a second database in addition to the database, 6. An information management system according to claim 1, wherein changes to the production site or changes to be reflected at the production site are provisionally reflected in the second database, and are reflected from the second database to the database in response to approval from the approver.

7. a display unit for displaying a user interface screen for receiving approval from the approver, The information management system of any preceding claim, wherein the user interface screen includes changes for which approval is requested.

8. storing a database including a bill of materials (BOM), a bill of process (BOP), and a bill of equipment (BOE) in a storage unit, each of the bill of materials, the bill of process, and the bill of equipment including a designation of an approver for the information included therein; The method further comprises the steps of: in response to the occurrence of a change to a production site or the occurrence of a change to be reflected at the production site, searching the database for an item corresponding to the change content, which is the content of the change, and searching for an approver of the searched item, the change including a change in a parameter of a control device at the production site; a step of requesting approval for reflecting the changes in the database from the searched approver; and reflecting the change in the corresponding item of the database in response to approval from the approver.

9. An information management program for causing a computer to execute an information management method, the computer having a storage unit for storing a database including a bill of materials (BOM), a bill of process (BOP), and a bill of equipment (BOE), each of the bill of materials, the bill of process, and the bill of equipment (BOE) including designation of an approver for the included information, the information management program causing the computer to: In response to the occurrence of a change to the production site or the occurrence of a change to be reflected in the production site, a step of searching the database for an item corresponding to the change content, which is the content of the change, and searching for an approver of the searched item, the change including a change in a parameter of a control device at the production site, is executed; a step of requesting approval for reflecting the changes in the database from the searched approver; and a step of reflecting the change content in the corresponding item of the database in response to the approval from the approver.

Images