Analysis device, display control method, and display control program

Abstract

To provide technique allowing sample analysis to be done without too much of burden on a user.SOLUTION: An analysis device 1 comprises a display unit 115 and a display control unit 122 controlling the display unit 115. The display control unit 122 makes the display unit 115 display predetermined information while a user-is on standby in a process of analyzing a sample S.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an analytical device that analyzes a sample, a display control method for controlling a display unit of the analytical device, and a display control program for controlling the display unit of the analytical device. [Background technology]

[0002] Analytical devices for analyzing samples have been publicly known. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a scanning probe microscope that obtains information about a sample surface by using a cantilever having a probe attached thereto. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2020 / 021698 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In an analytical device such as the scanning probe microscope disclosed in Patent Document 1, there may be times when the user is forced to wait during the process of analyzing a sample. If such a waiting time occurs, the user may feel stressed.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made to solve such problems, and its purpose is to provide a technique that allows a user to analyze a sample while minimizing stress on the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An analytical apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a scanning probe microscope that obtains information about the surface of a sample by scanning a cantilever equipped with a probe along the surface of the sample. The analytical apparatus includes a light source, a display unit, and a display control unit that controls the display unit. The display control unit causes the display unit to display predetermined information in a step of adjusting the optical axis of the light source for detecting the movement of the cantilever before a step of a user setting a sample. The predetermined information includes at least one of information regarding advice for analyzing a sample and information regarding other analytical devices.

[0007] A display control method according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a method for controlling a display unit of an analytical device that is a scanning probe microscope that obtains information about a surface of a sample by scanning a cantilever equipped with a probe along the surface of the sample. The display control method includes a step of determining whether or not a step is a step of adjusting an optical axis of a light source for detecting the movement of the cantilever before a step of a user setting a sample, and a step of displaying predetermined information on the display unit during the step of adjusting the optical axis. The predetermined information includes at least one of information regarding advice for analyzing a sample and information regarding other analytical devices.

[0008] A display control program according to another aspect of the present disclosure is a program for controlling a display unit of an analytical device that is a scanning probe microscope that obtains information about a surface of a sample by scanning a cantilever equipped with a probe along the surface of the sample. The display control program causes a computer to execute a step of determining whether or not a step is a step of adjusting an optical axis of a light source for detecting the operation of the cantilever before a step of a user setting a sample, and a step of displaying predetermined information on the display unit during the step of adjusting the optical axis. The predetermined information includes at least one of information regarding advice for analyzing a sample and information regarding other analytical devices. Effect of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to allow a user to analyze a sample while minimizing stress on the user. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of information provided about a part by the analysis device according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 2]1 is a diagram showing an information providing system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 3] 1 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of an information providing system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of the information providing system according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 5] 4 is a diagram for explaining a parts management table stored in the server device according to the embodiment; FIG. [Figure 6] 4 is a diagram for explaining a user management table stored in the server device according to the embodiment; FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a process for analyzing a sample by an analytical device. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the display device when the software is started. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the display device during optical axis adjustment. [Figure 10] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display device during an approach. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a display device during parameter adjustment. [Figure 12] 5 is a flowchart of display control executed by the information provision system according to the present embodiment when software is started. [Figure 13] 5 is a flowchart of display control during automatic adjustment executed by the information provision system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 14] 13 is a flowchart of display control executed by an information provision system according to a modified example when software is started. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart of display control during automatic adjustment executed by an information provision system according to a modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] The present embodiment will now be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and, in principle, descriptions thereof will not be repeated.

[0012] [Example of information provided by analytical equipment] 1 is a diagram showing an example of information provided about a part by an analysis device 1 according to the present embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, the analysis device 1 according to the present embodiment includes a control device 100 and an observation device 200.

[0013] The observation device 200 observes a sample, and outputs the observation results to the control device 100. The control device 100 controls the observation device 200, and analyzes the sample based on the observation results obtained from the observation device 200.

[0014] In the analysis device 1, there may be times when the user is forced to wait during the process of analyzing a sample. If such a waiting time occurs, the user may become bored and stressed.

[0015] Therefore, the analytical device 1 according to this embodiment displays predetermined information on the display device 105 during a step in which the user is waiting, among steps for analyzing a sample.

[0016] In addition, the analysis device 1 uses at least one or more parts (for example, consumables) for analyzing samples, but if the user has to decide whether or not to replace parts and further check the supplier of the parts, it is inconvenient for the user. It is difficult for the parts manufacturer to predict the timing of ordering parts, and there is a risk that the parts will be traded with the user by another parts manufacturer.

[0017] Therefore, when a part needs to be replaced, the analysis device 1 according to this embodiment displays information about a supplier of the part (hereinafter also referred to as "supplier information") on the display device 105. The "part" may be a part that is a part of the analysis device 1, or a part that is not a part of the analysis device 1 but is used in the analysis of a sample.

[0018] 1, supplier information is exemplified as the "predetermined information", but the "predetermined information" may include other information. For example, the "predetermined information" includes at least one of information regarding advice on sample analysis, information regarding parts, information regarding the progress of sample analysis, and information regarding other analysis devices other than the analysis device 1.

[0019] More specifically, the "information regarding the part" includes at least one of information encouraging replacement of the part, supplier information regarding the supplier of the part described above, information regarding the degree of wear of the part, and information regarding advertising of the part. For example, in the example shown in Fig. 1, a message saying "It is time to replace the part" is displayed on display device 105 as "information encouraging replacement of the part".

[0020] The "supplier information" includes an address for the user to order parts from the supplier. For example, in the example shown in Fig. 1, the address of the supplier is displayed on the display device 105 as the "supplier information" together with the message "Click here for the supplier."

[0021] The "information relating to the progress of the analysis of the sample" includes at least one of images capturing the steps of analyzing the sample and images that animate the steps of analyzing the sample.

[0022] In this way, the analysis device 1 according to the present embodiment displays predetermined information on the display device 105 during a process in which the user is waiting, minimizing boredom for the user during the waiting time. Therefore, the analysis device 1 allows the user to analyze a sample while minimizing stress on the user.

[0023] Furthermore, when a part needs to be replaced, the analytical device 1 according to this embodiment displays supplier information on the display device 105, eliminating the need for the user to determine whether or not a part needs to be replaced, or to look up the supplier of the part, etc. Thus, the analytical device 1 can allow the user to analyze a sample while providing convenience to the user.

[0024] [Overall configuration of information providing system 1000] Fig. 2 is a diagram showing an information providing system 1000 according to the present embodiment. As shown in Fig. 2, the information providing system 1000 includes an analysis device 1 belonging to a user, a server device 300 belonging to a manufacturer (hereinafter also referred to as an "equipment manufacturer") of the analysis device 1, and an order-receiving terminal 400 belonging to at least one or more parts manufacturers to which parts are ordered. In the example shown in Fig. 2, the information providing system 1000 includes an order-receiving terminal 400A belonging to part manufacturer A, an order-receiving terminal 400B belonging to part manufacturer B, and an order-receiving terminal 400C belonging to part manufacturer C.

[0025] The control device 100 of the analytical device 1, the server device 300 of the device manufacturer, and the supplier terminals 400 of each parts manufacturer are each connected via a network 2 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0026] According to the information providing system 1000 configured in this manner, a user can place an order for parts from an equipment manufacturer or a parts manufacturer through the control device 100 of the analytical device 1.

[0027] [Hardware configuration of information providing system 1000] Fig. 3 is a diagram showing a hardware configuration of an information providing system 1000 according to this embodiment. Fig. 3 shows an analysis device 1 and a server device 300 as one configuration of the information providing system 1000. In this embodiment, a scanning probe microscope is exemplified as the analysis device 1. The scanning probe microscope is also called an SPM (Scanning Probe Microscope). In the example shown in Fig. 3, an X-axis and a Y-axis are defined parallel to the ground surface of the analysis device 1 (SPM), and a Z-axis is defined perpendicular to each of the X-axis and the Y-axis.

[0028] The analysis device 1 includes an observation device 200 and a control device 100 that controls the observation device 200.

[0029] The observation device 200 includes a cantilever 10, a holder 14, an optical system 20, a scanner 50, a sample holding section 52, an imaging section 60, and an imaging section .

[0030] The cantilever 10 is provided so as to be located above the sample S placed on the sample holder 52 (in the Z-axis direction in the example shown in FIG. 1). The holder 14 supports the cantilever 10 so as to be vibrable in the Z-axis direction. A probe 12 is provided on the side of the cantilever 10 that is not supported by the holder 14 (the tip side). The cantilever 10 and the holder 14 are consumables that wear out the more times and for how long they are used to analyze the sample S. For this reason, the user needs to periodically replace the cantilever 10 and the holder 14 depending on the usage conditions. The front surface of the cantilever 10 faces the sample S. The back surface of the cantilever 10 faces the optical system 20.

[0031] The optical system 20 includes a laser light source 22, a beam splitter 24, a reflecting mirror 26, and a detector .

[0032] The laser light source 22 is composed of a laser oscillator that emits laser light LA, etc. The laser light LA ​​emitted from the laser light source 22 is reflected by a beam splitter 24 and irradiated onto the back surface of the cantilever 10. The laser light LA ​​irradiated onto the cantilever 10 is reflected by the back surface of the cantilever 10 and is reflected by a reflecting mirror 26. The laser light LA ​​reflected by the reflecting mirror 26 is detected by a detector 28. The detector 28 detects the laser light LA ​​reflected by the cantilever 10, and outputs the detection result to the control device 100.

[0033] The laser light source 22 is movable along a plane (the YZ plane in the example shown in FIG. 1) perpendicular to the optical axis of the output laser light LA. The control device 100 adjusts the optical axis of the laser light LA ​​by moving the laser light source 22 so that the laser light LA ​​is reflected by the cantilever 10.

[0034] The detector 28 is movable along a plane (the YZ plane in the example shown in FIG. 1) perpendicular to the optical axis of the incident laser beam LA. The control device 100 adjusts the position of the detector 28 by moving the detector 28 so that the laser beam LA reflected by the cantilever 10 is incident on the center of the light receiving surface of the detector 28.

[0035] The scanner 50 has a cylindrical shape. The sample S is held by a sample holder 52 placed on the scanner 50. The scanner 50 includes an XY scanner that scans the sample S along the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction, and a Z scanner that slightly moves the sample S along the Z-axis direction. In this way, the scanner 50 is driven in three-dimensional directions by the XY scanner and the Z scanner.

[0036] The photographing unit 60 is disposed above the probe 12 and photographs the cantilever 10 from above the cantilever 10. The photographing unit 60 photographs a subject present in the photographing field of view to obtain image information. The photographing unit 60 mainly includes an optical system such as a lens and an aperture, and a light receiving element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor and a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor. The photographing unit 60 outputs the obtained image information to the control device 100. The image information obtained by the photographing unit 60 is used, for example, to adjust the optical axis of the laser light LA.

[0037] The photographing unit 70 photographs the sample S and the probe 12 from the lateral direction (the X-axis direction in the example shown in FIG. 1). The photographing unit 70 photographs a subject present in the photographing field of view to obtain image information. The photographing unit 70 includes, as main components, an optical system such as a lens and an aperture, and a light receiving element such as a CCD image sensor and a CMOS image sensor. The photographing unit 70 outputs the obtained image information to the control device 100.

[0038] The observation device 200 configured as described above is an atomic force microscope (AFM) of SPM. Under the control of the control device 100, the observation device 200 vibrates the cantilever 10 in the vertical direction while utilizing the atomic force (attractive or repulsive force) acting between the probe 12 and the surface of the sample S. The control device 100 obtains information about the surface of the sample S by detecting the laser light LA ​​reflected by the vibrating cantilever 10.

[0039] The control device 100 is, for example, a computer configured according to a general-purpose computer architecture. The control device 100 controls the operation of each part constituting the observation device 200, and provides a user with information on parts used in the analysis of the sample S by the analysis device 1. The control device 100 is, for example, configured according to a general-purpose computer architecture. Note that the control device 100 may be implemented using hardware dedicated to the analysis device 1. The control device 100 includes a processor 102, a communication device 103, a memory 104, a display device 105, and an input device 106.

[0040] The processor 102 is a computing entity (computer) that executes various processes according to various programs (for example, a display control program 141 and an analysis program 142 described below). The processor 102 is configured, for example, with at least one of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and an MPU (Multi Processing Unit). The processor 102 may be configured with a processing circuitry.

[0041] The processor 102 analyzes the sample S by analyzing the detection result of the laser light LA ​​obtained by the observation device 200 according to the analysis program 142. The processor 102 controls the display device 105 according to the display control program 141 to cause the display device 105 to display predetermined information (predetermined image) such as supplier information. The processor 102 executes various processes based on user input acquired from the input device 106. The processor 102 controls the communication device 103 to cause the communication device 103 to transmit and receive data (information) between the server device 300 and the order recipient terminal 400.

[0042] The communication device 103 transmits and receives data (information) to and from the server device 300 and the order recipient terminal 400 via wired or wireless connection.

[0043] The memory 104 is composed of a volatile memory such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and a static random access memory (SRAM), or a non-volatile memory such as a read only memory (ROM). The memory 104 stores various programs and data, such as a display control program 141 for providing a user with information about parts used in the analysis of the sample S, and an analysis program 142 for controlling the observation device 200.

[0044] In addition, as long as the control device 100 can non-temporarily record programs and data in a readable format, the memory 104 may be a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), a DVD-ROM (Digital Versatile Disk-Read Only Memory), a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, a memory card, a FD (Flexible Disk), a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), a magnetic tape, a cassette tape, an MO (Magnetic Optical Disc), an MD (Mini Disc), an IC (Integrated Circuit) card, an optical card, a mask ROM, or an EPROM.

[0045] The display device 105 includes a display such as a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, or an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display, and displays predetermined information under the control of the processor 102. For example, the display device 105 displays the analysis result of the sample S obtained based on the observation result of the sample S by the observation device 200, or displays ordering information for parts when it is time to replace the parts.

[0046] The input device 106 is an input interface that accepts input from a user, such as a keyboard and a mouse. The input device 106 outputs a signal based on the accepted user input to the processor 102. Note that the control device 100 may include a touch panel in which the display device 105 and the input device 106 are integrated.

[0047] The server device 300 is, for example, a computer configured according to a general-purpose computer architecture. The server device 300 includes a processor 302, a communication device 303, and a memory 304.

[0048] The processor 302 is a computing entity (computer) that executes various processes according to various programs (for example, an information provision program 341 described later). The processor 302 is configured, for example, by at least one of a CPU, an FPGA, a GPU, and an MPU. The processor 302 may be configured by an arithmetic circuit.

[0049] The processor 302 controls the communication device 303 in accordance with various programs such as an information provision program, thereby causing the communication device 303 to transmit and receive data (information) between the control device 100 and the order recipient terminal 400, respectively.

[0050] The communication device 303 transmits and receives data (information) between the control device 100 of the analysis device 1 and the order destination terminal 400 via a wired or wireless connection.

[0051] The memory 304 is composed of a volatile memory such as a DRAM or an SRAM, or a non-volatile memory such as a ROM. The memory 304 stores various programs and data, such as an information providing program 341 for providing a user with information on parts used in the analysis of the sample S.

[0052] In addition, as long as the server device 300 is capable of non-temporarily recording programs and data in a readable format, the memory 304 may be a CD-ROM, a DVD-ROM, a USB memory, a memory card, a FD, an HDD, an SSD, a magnetic tape, a cassette tape, an MO, an MD, an IC card, an optical card, a mask ROM, or an EPROM.

[0053] [Functional configuration of information provision system 1000] Fig. 4 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of the information providing system 1000 according to this embodiment. As shown in Fig. 4, the control device 100 of the analysis device 1 includes, as main functional units, a calculation unit 112, an apparatus side communication unit 113, a storage unit 114, a display unit 115, and an input unit 116.

[0054] The calculation unit 112 is a functional unit of the processor 102, and executes various processes related to the analysis device 1. Specifically, the calculation unit 112 includes an analysis unit 121 and a display control unit 122. The analysis unit 121 analyzes the detection result of the laser light LA ​​obtained by the observation device 200 according to the analysis program 142, thereby analyzing the sample S. The display control unit 122 controls the display device 105 (display unit 115) according to the display control program 141. In addition, the calculation unit 112 executes various processes based on a user's input acquired from the input unit 116, and controls the device-side communication unit 113 to cause the device-side communication unit 113 to transmit and receive data (information) between the server device 300 and the order destination terminal 400.

[0055] The device-side communication unit 113 is a functional unit of the communication device 103, and transmits and receives data (information) between the server device 300 and the order recipient terminal 400, respectively.

[0056] The storage unit 114 is a functional unit of the memory 104, and stores various programs, data, etc. Specifically, the storage unit 114 stores a display control program 141 for providing a user with information regarding parts used in the analysis of the sample S, and an analysis program 142 for analyzing the sample S.

[0057] The display unit 115 is a functional unit of the display device 105, and displays predetermined information (predetermined image) such as supplier information under the control of the calculation unit 112.

[0058] The input unit 116 is a functional unit of the input device 106 that receives an input from a user and outputs to the calculation unit 112 a signal based on the received user input.

[0059] The server device 300 includes a calculation unit 312 , a server side communication unit 313 , and a storage unit 314 .

[0060] The calculation unit 312 is a functional unit of the processor 302, and executes various processes related to the server device 300. Specifically, the calculation unit 312 includes a determination unit 321. The determination unit 321 determines whether or not a part used in the analysis of the sample S needs to be replaced according to the information provision program 341. In addition, the calculation unit 312 controls the server-side communication unit 313 to cause the server-side communication unit 313 to transmit and receive data (information) between the control device 100 of the analysis device 1 and the order destination terminal 400.

[0061] The server-side communication unit 313 is a functional unit of the communication device 303, and transmits and receives data (information) between the control device 100 of the analysis device 1 and the order destination terminal 400.

[0062] The storage unit 314 is a functional unit of the memory 304, and stores various programs, data, etc. Specifically, the storage unit 314 stores an information provision program 341 for providing a user with information on parts used in the analysis of the sample S, a part management table 342 including information for managing parts, and a user management table 343 including information for managing users.

[0063] [Parts management table] 5 is a diagram for explaining a parts management table 342 stored by the server device 300 according to this embodiment. The parts management table 342 stores information for managing parts used in the analysis of the sample S by the observation device 200 of the analysis device 1. The analysis device 1 according to this embodiment, which is an SPM, includes a cantilever 10 and a holder 14 as parts used in the analysis of the sample S. In this embodiment, when the cantilever 10 or the holder 14 needs to be replaced, supplier information regarding the supplier of the cantilever 10 or the holder 14 is provided to the user by the display device 105 of the control device 100.

[0064] 5, parts management table 342 includes a "part" column, a "supplier" column, and an "ordering address" column. The "part" column stores information for identifying the type of part. The "supplier" column stores information for identifying the supplier. The "ordering address" column stores information for identifying the address for the user to order the part from the supplier.

[0065] In this embodiment, there are a plurality of types of cantilevers 10, such as cantilever A to cantilever E. The cantilevers 10 are ordered from a plurality of parts manufacturers, such as parts manufacturers A to C. The orderer differs depending on the type of cantilever 10.

[0066] For example, as shown in FIG. 5, cantilever A is ordered from two parts manufacturers, namely parts manufacturer A and parts manufacturer B, while cantilever B is ordered from only one parts manufacturer, namely parts manufacturer B.

[0067] Furthermore, in this embodiment, there are a plurality of types of holders 14, such as holder A to holder E. The holders 14 are ordered from the device manufacturer of the analysis device 1 in which the server device 300 is installed, and a plurality of types of parts manufacturers, such as parts manufacturers A to C. The order destination differs depending on the type of holder 14.

[0068] For example, as shown in FIG. 5, the supplier of holder A is an equipment manufacturer, and the supplier of holder D is two kinds of parts manufacturers, namely parts manufacturers A and C.

[0069] If the server device 300 can identify the parts (in this embodiment, cantilevers A to E and holders A to E) used in the user's analysis device 1, it can obtain supplier information corresponding to the identified parts based on the parts management table 342.

[0070] [User management table] 6 is a diagram for explaining user management table 343 stored in server device 300 according to this embodiment. User management table 343 stores information for managing users of analysis device 1.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 6, the user management table includes a “user” column, a “part” column, a “purchase history” column, a “time since last” column, an “average vacancy period” column, a “replacement flag” column, and a “proposed supplier” column.

[0072] The "User" field stores information for identifying a user, such as a user-specific ID (identification) for identifying the user, a password, the user's name, address, and phone number.

[0073] The "Parts" column stores information for identifying the type of parts used by the user. For example, the "Parts" column stores information for identifying that user A is using cantilever A and holder A. The "Parts" column stores information for identifying that user B is using cantilever A, cantilever B, and holder D. Information for identifying parts includes a part-specific serial number and model number that identify the part.

[0074] The "purchase history" column stores information for identifying the purchase history of parts by the user. For example, the "purchase history" column stores information for identifying, for user A, the purchase of cantilever A from part manufacturer A and the date of purchase. The "purchase history" column stores information for identifying, for user A, the purchase of holder A from an equipment manufacturer and the date of purchase. The "purchase history" column stores information for identifying, for user B, the purchase of cantilever A from part manufacturers A and B and the date of purchase. The "purchase history" column stores information for identifying, for user B, the purchase of cantilever B from part manufacturer B and the date of purchase. The "purchase history" column stores information for identifying, for user B, the purchase of holder D from part manufacturer C and the date of purchase.

[0075] The "Time Elapsed Since Last" field stores information for identifying the time that has passed since the user last purchased a part. For example, the "Time Elapsed Since Last" field stores information for identifying, for User A, that 70 days have passed since the last purchase of Cantilever A and that 31 days have passed since the last purchase of Holder A. The "Time Elapsed Since Last" field stores information for identifying, for User B, that 50 days have passed since the last purchase of Cantilever A, that 75 days have passed since the last purchase of Cantilever B, and that 162 days have passed since the last purchase of Holder D.

[0076] The "average vacant period" field stores information for specifying the average vacant period from the previous purchase calculated from the purchase history. For example, the "average vacant period" field stores information for specifying that, for user A, cantilever A is purchased again 63 days after the previous purchase of cantilever A, and that holder A is purchased again 165 days after the previous purchase of holder A. The "average vacant period" field stores information for specifying that, for user B, cantilever A is purchased again 42 days after the previous purchase of cantilever A, cantilever B is purchased again 85 days after the previous purchase of cantilever B, and holder D is purchased again 155 days after the previous purchase of holder D.

[0077] The "replacement flag" stores information for specifying whether or not a part needs to be replaced, which is calculated from the "period elapsed since the previous time" and the "average vacant period." For example, if the "period elapsed since the previous time" exceeds the "average vacant period," the "replacement flag" stores "1," which can specify that a part needs to be replaced, and if the "period elapsed since the previous time" does not exceed the "average vacant period," the "replacement flag" stores "0," which can specify that a part does not need to be replaced.

[0078] In this embodiment, the server device 300 determines whether or not a part needs to be replaced based on the "time since last purchase" and the "average vacant period", but may determine whether or not a part needs to be replaced by other methods. For example, the server device 300 may determine that a part needs to be replaced when the time from the last purchase date to the present exceeds the time between the purchase date and the date before last and the last purchase date and time.

[0079] The "Proposed Order Destination" field stores information for identifying the order destination that the server device 300 proposes to the user based on the purchase history of the parts. For example, the "Proposed Order Destination" field stores information for identifying that, for the cantilever A of the user A, the part manufacturer A with a purchase history is proposed as the order destination. The "Proposed Order Destination" field stores information for identifying that, for the holder A of the user A, the equipment manufacturer with a purchase history is proposed as the order destination. The "Proposed Order Destination" field stores information for identifying that, for the cantilever A of the user B, the part manufacturer B with the most recent purchase history is proposed as the order destination among the part manufacturers A and B with purchase history. The "Proposed Order Destination" field stores information for identifying that, for the cantilever B of the user B, the part manufacturer B with a purchase history is proposed as the order destination. The "Proposed Order Destination" field stores information for identifying that, for the holder D of the user B, the part manufacturer C with a purchase history is proposed as the order destination.

[0080] If the server device 300 can identify a user, it can identify, for each part used by the identified user, whether replacement is necessary and, if replacement is necessary, a suggested supplier, based on the user management table 343. Furthermore, the server device 300 can obtain the ordering address of the suggested supplier by referring to the parts management table 342 shown in FIG.

[0081] [Analysis process] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a process for analyzing a sample S by the analytical device 1. In this embodiment, when a sample S is analyzed using the analytical device 1 which is an SPM, the process shown in Fig. 7 is performed.

[0082] As shown in FIG. 7, the steps relating to the analysis include a software activation step, a cantilever attachment step, an optical axis adjustment step, a sample setting step, an observation step, and a data analysis step.

[0083] First, a software startup process is performed. The software startup process is performed by the control device 100 executing the analysis program 142 according to the user's input. When the analysis software is started, a software startup screen is displayed on the display device 105 as shown in FIG. 8, which will be described later.

[0084] After the analysis software is started, the cantilever attachment process is performed. In the cantilever attachment process, the user attaches the cantilever 10 to the holder 14 of the observation device 200.

[0085] After the cantilever attachment process, an optical axis adjustment process is performed. The optical axis adjustment process is a process for adjusting the optical axis for detecting the operation of the cantilever 10. The optical axis adjustment process is performed automatically by the control device 100 without the involvement of a user. Specifically, in the optical axis adjustment process, the control device 100 controls the observation device 200 to automatically adjust the optical system 20 so that the position of the laser light LA ​​reflected by the cantilever 10 (the position where the amount of received light is the largest) is incident on the center of the light receiving surface of the detector 28.

[0086] After the optical adjustment process, a sample setting process is performed. The sample setting process includes an approach process and a parameter adjustment process in addition to a process in which the user sets the sample. The approach process and the parameter adjustment process are performed automatically by the control device 100 without the user's involvement.

[0087] The approach step is a step of bringing the probe 12 closer to the surface of the sample S. Specifically, in the approach step, the probe 12 is brought closer to the sample S at a slow speed (for example, a speed of 1 mm / min) from a height (height in the Z-axis direction shown in FIG. 3) previously set by the user. When the probe 12 approaches the sample S within a predetermined range, an atomic force is generated between the probe 12 and the surface of the sample S. When the control device 100 detects the atomic force generated between the probe 12 and the surface of the sample S, the approach step is completed.

[0088] After the approach step, a parameter adjustment step is performed. The parameter adjustment step is a step for adjusting parameters for analyzing the sample. For example, in the parameter adjustment step, a feedback gain for controlling the distance between the probe 12 and the sample S is automatically adjusted.

[0089] After the sample setting step, an observation step is performed. In the observation step, a cantilever 10 equipped with a probe 12 scans along the surface of the sample S, thereby obtaining information about the surface of the sample S.

[0090] After the sample setting step, a data analysis step is performed in which the sample S is analyzed by the control device 100 based on the detection results of the observation device 200 obtained in the observation step.

[0091] In the above-mentioned steps, the control device 100 executes the display control program 141 to perform display control on the display device 105. Specifically, the control device 100 performs display control in a software startup step, an optical axis adjustment step, and a sample setting step (approach step, parameter adjustment step). In particular, among the steps for analyzing the sample S, the optical axis adjustment step, the approach step, and the parameter adjustment step are automatically performed by the control device 100 and the observation device 200. For this reason, in these steps, there are times when the user has no choice but to wait. During such waiting times that may cause stress to the user, display control is performed.

[0092] In the steps of automatic adjustment performed by the control device 100, such as the optical axis adjustment step, approach step, and parameter adjustment step described above, the time required for these automatic adjustments varies. For example, in the approach step, the time until the probe 12 approaches the sample S within a predetermined range is determined according to the height of the probe 12 set by the user and the thickness of the sample S (thickness in the Z-axis direction shown in FIG. 3). For this reason, depending on the height of the probe 12 and the thickness of the sample S set by the user, the time the user has to wait in the approach step may become long. The control device 100 is configured to perform display control during the user's waiting time, which varies according to such circumstances.

[0093] [Example of display control] An example of display control of the display device 105 by the control device 100 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0094] (Display control when software is started) 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the display device 105 when the software is started. As shown in Fig. 8, when the analysis software is started, the display device 105 displays a software start screen 151 based on the control of the control device 100.

[0095] The display device 105 displays, in a part of the software start-up screen 151, a part-related image 160 including information related to parts used in the analysis of the sample S. The part-related image 160 includes information encouraging replacement of the part, information related to a supplier of the part, and information related to the degree of wear of the part. Note that the example shown in FIG. 8 is an example in which information related to the cantilever A is provided to the user A as shown in FIG. 6.

[0096] For example, the part-related image 160 includes a message saying "It's time to replace the cantilever" as information encouraging replacement of the part. The part-related image 160 includes a message saying "Order here" along with a supplier address as information relating to a part supplier. The part-related image 160 includes a message saying "70 days have passed since the last order" as information relating to the degree of wear of the part. Note that the part-related image 160 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 8, and may include other information as information encouraging replacement of the part, information relating to a part supplier, and information relating to the degree of wear of the part. The part-related image 160 may include information encouraging replacement of not only the cantilever 10 but also other parts (consumables) such as the holder 14.

[0097] In this way, when the software is started, the analytical device 1 displays supplier information regarding the supplier of the parts on the display device 105 if a part needs to be replaced. This allows the user to determine whether or not a part such as the cantilever 10 needs to be replaced, and if a part needs to be replaced, the user does not need to look up the supplier of the parts. Thus, the analytical device 1 can allow the user to analyze the sample S while providing convenience to the user. For the parts manufacturer, since the user orders the parts themselves based on the supplier information displayed on the display device 105, the parts manufacturer can smoothly receive orders for the parts without having to deal with the user at another parts manufacturer.

[0098] (Display control during optical axis adjustment) 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the display device 105 during the optical axis adjustment. As shown in FIG. 9, in the optical axis adjustment process, the display device 105 displays an optical axis adjustment screen 152 based on the control of the control device 100.

[0099] The display device 105 displays, in a part of the optical axis adjustment screen 152, an advice image 171 including information regarding advice for analyzing the sample S. For example, the advice image 171 includes a message and an illustration prompting the user to confirm that the cantilever 10 is correctly attached to the holder 14. Note that the advice image 171 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 9, and may include other information as information regarding advice for analyzing the sample S.

[0100] In this way, the analysis device 1 displays information on advice for analyzing the sample S on the display device 105 during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during optical axis adjustment. This minimizes the boredom felt by the user while waiting. Therefore, the analysis device 1 allows the user to analyze the sample while minimizing stress on the user.

[0101] The display device 105 displays a progress image 172 including information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S in a part of the optical axis adjustment screen 152. For example, the progress image 172 includes a progress bar 175 indicating the progress status along with a message "Optical axis adjustment in progress" indicating the process currently in progress. Note that the progress image 172 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 9 and may include other information as information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S. For example, the progress image 172 may include a spinner image 185 as shown in FIG. 10 as information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S.

[0102] In this way, during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during optical axis adjustment, the analysis device 1 displays information about the progress of the analysis of the sample S on the display device 105. This allows the analysis device 1 to allow the user to analyze the sample with as little stress as possible.

[0103] (Display control during approach) 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the display device during the approach process. As shown in FIG. 10, the display device 105 displays an approach screen 153 based on the control of the control device 100 during the approach process.

[0104] The display device 105 displays a live image 181 obtained by capturing an image of a process for analyzing the sample S in a part of the approach screen 153. For example, the live image 181 includes a still image or a video image captured by the image capturing unit 70 of the probe 12 approaching the sample S in the approach process. Note that the live image 181 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 10, and may include other images as images captured of a process for analyzing the sample S. For example, the live image 181 may include an animated image of a process for analyzing the sample S (for example, an approach process).

[0105] In this way, the analysis device 1 displays images of the process for analyzing the sample S on the display device 105 during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during an approach. This minimizes the boredom felt by the user during the waiting time. Therefore, the analysis device 1 allows the user to analyze the sample while minimizing stress on the user.

[0106] The display device 105 displays, in a portion of the approach screen 153, a progress image 182 including information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S. For example, the progress image 182 includes a spinner image 185 indicating the progress status along with a message "approaching" indicating the process currently in progress. Note that the progress image 182 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 10 and may include other information as information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S. For example, the progress image 182 may include a progress bar 175 as shown in FIG. 9 as information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S.

[0107] In this way, during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during an approach, the analysis device 1 displays information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S on the display device 105. This allows the analysis device 1 to allow the user to analyze the sample with as little stress as possible.

[0108] (Display control while adjusting parameters) 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the display device during parameter adjustment. As shown in FIG 11, in the parameter adjustment step, the display device 105 displays a parameter adjustment screen 154 based on the control of the control device 100.

[0109] The display device 105 displays, in a portion of the parameter adjustment screen 154, a part-related image 190 including information related to parts used in the analysis of the sample S. The part-related image 190 includes information encouraging replacement of the part, information related to a supplier of the part, and information related to the degree of wear of the part. Note that the example shown in FIG. 11 is an example in which information related to the cantilever A is provided to the user A as shown in FIG. 6.

[0110] For example, the part-related image 190 includes a message saying "It's time to replace the cantilever" as information encouraging replacement of the part. The part-related image 190 includes a message saying "Order here" along with a supplier address as information relating to a part supplier. The part-related image 190 includes a message saying "70 days have passed since the last order" as information relating to the degree of wear of the part. Note that the part-related image 190 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 11, and may include other information as information encouraging replacement of the part, information relating to a part supplier, and information relating to the degree of wear of the part. The part-related image 190 may include information encouraging replacement of other parts (consumables) such as the holder 14, not limited to the cantilever 10.

[0111] In this way, when a part needs to be replaced during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during parameter adjustment, the analytical device 1 displays supplier information regarding the supplier of the part on the display device 105. This allows the user to determine whether or not a part such as the cantilever 10 needs to be replaced, and when a part needs to be replaced, the user does not need to look up the supplier of the part. Thus, the analytical device 1 can allow the user to analyze the sample S while providing convenience to the user. For the part manufacturer, too, since the user orders the part themselves based on the supplier information displayed on the display device 105, orders for the part can be received smoothly without the part being traded with another part manufacturer.

[0112] The display device 105 displays a progress image 192 including information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S in a portion of the parameter adjustment screen 154. For example, the progress image 192 includes a spinner image 195 indicating the progress state along with a message "parameter adjustment in progress" indicating the process currently in progress. Note that the progress image 192 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 11 and may include other information as information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S. For example, the progress image 192 may include a progress bar 175 as shown in FIG. 9 as information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S.

[0113] In this way, during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during parameter adjustment, the analytical device 1 displays information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S on the display device 105. This allows the analytical device 1 to allow the user to analyze the sample with as little stress as possible.

[0114] [Processing related to display control of information provision system] (Display control processing when software is started) Fig. 12 is a flowchart of display control at the time of software startup executed by the information provision system 1000 according to this embodiment. The processing steps (hereinafter abbreviated as "S") shown in Fig. 12 are realized by the execution of a display control program 141 by the processor 102 (arithmetic unit 112) of the control device 100, and the execution of an information provision program 341 by the processor 302 (arithmetic unit 312) of the server device 300.

[0115] 12, when the software is started, the control device 100 transmits information for determination to the server device 300 (S11). The information for determination is information for the server device 300 to determine whether or not a part needs to be replaced. For example, the information for determination includes at least one of information for identifying a user of the analysis device 1 (e.g., ID, password, user's name, address, phone number, etc.) and information for identifying a part used by the user (e.g., serial number, model, etc.).

[0116] The server device 300 judges whether or not it has received information for determination (S31). If the server device 300 has not received information for determination (NO in S31), it ends this process. If the server device 300 has received information for determination (YES in S31), it identifies at least one of the user and the part from the information for determination, and judges whether or not the target part needs to be replaced based on the user management table 343 (S32). Specifically, based on the information of the replacement flag stored in the user management table 343, the server device 300 determines that the target part needs to be replaced if the replacement flag is set to "1", and determines that the target part does not need to be replaced if the replacement flag is set to "0".

[0117] If the part does not need to be replaced (NO in S32), the server device 300 ends this process. If the part needs to be replaced (YES in S32), the server device 300 identifies supplier information based on the part management table 342, and transmits the identified supplier information to the control device 100 (S33). Specifically, the server device 300 identifies the ordering address and the period of time that has elapsed since the previous order for the target part based on the part management table 342, and transmits supplier information including the identified ordering address and the period of time that has elapsed since the previous order to the control device 100. The server device 300 then ends this process.

[0118] After transmitting the determination information in S11, the control device 100 determines whether or not the supplier information has been received (S12). If the control device 100 does not receive the supplier information within a predetermined time limit after transmitting the determination information (NO in S12), the control device 100 ends this process. If the control device 100 receives the supplier information within a predetermined time limit after transmitting the determination information (YES in S12), the control device 100 performs display control on the display device 105 based on the supplier information (S13).

[0119] Specifically, the control device 100 performs display control on the display device 105 to display a part-related image 160 in a part of the software start-up screen 151, as shown in Fig. 8. Thereafter, the control device 100 ends this process.

[0120] In this way, when a part needs to be replaced at the time of software startup, the information providing system 1000 (the control device 100 and the server device 300 of the analytical device 1) displays supplier information regarding a supplier of the part on the display device 105. In this way, the information providing system 1000 can allow the user to analyze the sample S while providing convenience to the user.

[0121] (Processing related to display control during automatic adjustment) Fig. 13 is a flowchart of display control during automatic adjustment executed by the information provision system 1000 according to this embodiment. The processing steps (hereinafter abbreviated as "S") shown in Fig. 13 are realized by execution of a display control program 141 by the processor 102 (arithmetic unit 112) of the control device 100, and execution of an information provision program 341 by the processor 302 (arithmetic unit 312) of the server device 300.

[0122] As shown in Fig. 13, the control device 100 judges whether or not automatic adjustment is in progress (S101). Specifically, the control device 100 judges whether or not the process currently being executed is any one of the optical axis adjustment process, the approach process, and the parameter adjustment process. If automatic adjustment is not in progress (NO in S101), the control device 100 ends this process.

[0123] When automatic adjustment is in progress (YES in S101), the control device 100 determines whether or not optical axis adjustment is in progress (S102). When optical axis adjustment is in progress (YES in S102), the control device 100 acquires advice information stored in advance in the memory 104 (S103). The advice information includes information regarding advice for analysis of the sample S. At this time, the control device 100 also acquires information regarding the progress of the optical axis adjustment process.

[0124] The control device 100 performs display control on the display device 105 based on the acquired advice information and information related to the progress of the optical axis adjustment process (S104). Specifically, the control device 100 performs display control on the display device 105 to display an advice image 171 and a progress image 172 in a part of the optical axis adjustment screen 152, as shown in Fig. 9. Thereafter, the control device 100 ends this process.

[0125] In this way, the information providing system 1000 (the control device 100 of the analysis device 1, the server device 300) displays information on advice for the analysis of the sample S and information on the progress of the analysis of the sample S on the display device 105 during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during optical axis adjustment. This allows the information providing system 1000 to allow the user to analyze the sample with as little stress as possible.

[0126] When the control device 100 determines in S102 that the optical axis adjustment is not in progress (NO in S102), it determines whether or not the approach is in progress (S105). When the control device 100 determines that the approach is in progress (YES in S105), it acquires approach information (S106). The approach information includes information related to images captured by the image capturing unit 70 during the approach process. At this time, the control device 100 also acquires information related to the progress of the approach process.

[0127] The control device 100 performs display control on the display device 105 based on the acquired approach information and information related to the progress of the approach process (S104). Specifically, the control device 100 performs display control on the display device 105 to display a live image 181 and a progress image 182 in a part of the approach screen 153, as shown in Fig. 10. Thereafter, the control device 100 ends this process.

[0128] In this way, the information providing system 1000 displays, on the display device 105, images of the process for analyzing the sample S and information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during an approach. This allows the information providing system 1000 to allow the user to analyze the sample with as little stress as possible.

[0129] When the control device 100 determines in S105 that the vehicle is not on approach (NO in S105), it determines that the parameter is being adjusted, and transmits information for determination to the server device 300 (S107). The information for determination is information for the server device 300 to determine whether or not a part needs to be replaced. For example, the information for determination includes at least one of information for identifying a user of the analysis device 1 (e.g., ID, password, user's name, address, telephone number, etc.) and information for identifying a part used by the user (e.g., serial number, model, etc.).

[0130] The server device 300 judges whether or not it has received information for determination (S301). If the server device 300 has not received information for determination (NO in S301), it ends this process. If the server device 300 has received information for determination (YES in S301), it identifies at least one of the user and the part from the information for determination, and judges whether or not the target part needs to be replaced based on the user management table 343 (S302). Specifically, based on the information of the replacement flag stored in the user management table 343, the server device 300 determines that the target part needs to be replaced if the replacement flag is set to "1", and determines that the part does not need to be replaced if the replacement flag is set to "0".

[0131] If the part does not need to be replaced (NO in S302), the server device 300 ends this process. If the part needs to be replaced (YES in S302), the server device 300 identifies supplier information based on the part management table 342, and transmits the identified supplier information to the control device 100 (S303). Specifically, the server device 300 identifies the ordering address and the period of time that has elapsed since the previous order for the target part based on the part management table 342, and transmits supplier information including the identified ordering address and the period of time that has elapsed since the previous order to the control device 100. The server device 300 then ends this process.

[0132] After transmitting the determination information in S107, the control device 100 determines whether or not the supplier information has been received (S108). If the control device 100 does not receive the supplier information within a predetermined time limit after transmitting the determination information (NO in S108), the control device 100 ends this process. If the control device 100 receives the supplier information within a predetermined time limit after transmitting the determination information (YES in S108), the control device 100 further acquires information related to the progress of the parameter adjustment process, and performs display control on the display device 105 based on the acquired supplier information and information related to the progress of the parameter adjustment process (S104).

[0133] Specifically, the control device 100 performs display control on the display device 105 to display a part-related image 190 and a progress image 192 in a part of the parameter adjustment screen 154, as shown in Fig. 11. Thereafter, the control device 100 ends this process.

[0134] In this way, the information providing system 1000 (control device 100 of the analytical device 1, server device 300) displays supplier information regarding the supplier of the parts on the display device 105 when parts replacement is necessary during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during parameter adjustment. This allows the information providing system 1000 to allow the user to analyze the sample S while providing convenience to the user. Furthermore, the information providing system 1000 displays information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S on the display device 105 during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during parameter adjustment. This allows the information providing system 1000 to allow the user to analyze the sample with as little stress as possible.

[0135] [Variations] Although the analysis device 1, the server device 300, and the information providing system 1000 according to the present embodiment have been described above, various modifications and applications are possible for these configurations. Modifications will be described below.

[0136] (Configuration of the analysis device) In this embodiment, the analysis device 1 is a scanning probe microscope (SPM), but is not limited to an SPM. For example, the analysis device 1 may be another analysis device that requires replacement of parts used in analyzing a sample. The analysis device 1 may be another analysis device that is provided with a step in which a user waits as a step for analyzing a sample.

[0137] In the present embodiment, the analysis device 1 is configured such that the control device 100 and the observation device 200 are separate entities, but the analysis device 1 may also be configured such that the control device 100 and the observation device 200 are integrated together.

[0138] (Display control processing) In this embodiment, the server device 300 is provided with a judgment unit 321 that judges whether or not a part needs to be replaced, but the control device 100 of the analysis device 1 may also be provided with a judgment unit that judges whether or not a part needs to be replaced.

[0139] For example, Fig. 14 is a flowchart of display control at the time of software startup executed by an information provision system according to a modified example. The processing steps (hereinafter abbreviated as "S") shown in Fig. 14 are realized by execution of a display control program 141 by the processor 102 (arithmetic unit 112) of the control device 100A according to the modified example, and execution of an information provision program 341 by the processor 302 (arithmetic unit 312) of the server device 300A according to the modified example.

[0140] As shown in FIG. 14, at the time of soft startup, the control device 100A determines whether or not a part needs to be replaced (S11A).

[0141] Specifically, the control device 100A photographs parts (consumables) such as the cantilever 10 and the holder 14 using the photographing unit 60 or 70, and compares, by image recognition or the like, the photographed image showing the parts with a photographed image showing a defective part (a part determined to require replacement) previously stored in the memory 104. When the control device 100A determines through the comparison using image recognition that the similarity between the two is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, it identifies that the part requires replacement.

[0142] As another method, the control device 100A calculates the usage period of parts (consumables) such as the cantilever 10 and the holder 14 in the previous or previous analysis by the analysis device 1, and determines whether the usage period exceeds a specified period. For example, if the cantilever 10 was used continuously for 24 hours in the previous or previous analysis, the control device 100A determines that the cantilever 10 needs to be replaced. If the control device 100A determines that the usage period of a part exceeds the specified period, it determines that the part needs to be replaced.

[0143] If the part does not need to be replaced (NO in S11A), the control device 100A ends this process. If the part needs to be replaced (YES in S11A), the control device 100A transmits request information requesting supplier information to the server device 300A (S12A). The request information includes at least one of information for identifying the user of the analysis device 1 (e.g., ID, password, user name, address, phone number, etc.) and information for identifying the part used by the user (e.g., serial number, model, etc.).

[0144] The server device 300A determines whether or not the request information has been received (S31A). If the server device 300A has not received the request information (NO in S31A), the server device 300A ends this process. If the server device 300A has received the request information (YES in S31), the server device 300 identifies supplier information based on the parts management table 342, and transmits the identified supplier information to the control device 100A (S32A).

[0145] After transmitting the request information in S12A, the control device 100A determines whether or not the supplier information has been received (S13A). If the control device 100A does not receive the supplier information within a predetermined time limit after transmitting the request information (NO in S13A), the control device 100A ends this process. If the control device 100A receives the supplier information within a predetermined time limit after transmitting the request information (YES in S13A), the control device 100A performs display control on the display device 105 based on the supplier information (S14A).

[0146] Specifically, the control device 100A performs display control on the display device 105 to display a part-related image 160 in a part of the software start-up screen 151, as shown in Fig. 8. Note that the part-related image 160 may include a message such as "The period of use has exceeded 24 hours" as information regarding the degree of wear of the part. Thereafter, the control device 100A ends this process.

[0147] In this way, when the information providing system according to the modified example requires replacement of a part at the time of software startup, supplier information regarding a supplier of the part is displayed on the display device 105. In this way, the information providing system can allow the user to analyze the sample S while providing convenience to the user.

[0148] Fig. 15 is a flowchart of display control during automatic adjustment executed by an information provision system according to a modified example. The processing steps (hereinafter abbreviated as "S") shown in Fig. 15 are realized by execution of a display control program 141 by the processor 102 (arithmetic unit 112) of the control device 100B according to the modified example, and execution of an information provision program 341 by the processor 302 (arithmetic unit 312) of the server device 300B according to the modified example. Among the steps shown in Fig. 15, S101 to S106 are the same processes as S101 to S106 shown in Fig. 13, and therefore description thereof will be omitted here.

[0149] As shown in FIG. 15, the control device 100B determines whether or not the vehicle is on approach (S105), and if it is determined that the vehicle is not on approach (NO in S105), it determines whether or not a part needs to be replaced (S107B).

[0150] Specifically, the control device 100B photographs parts (consumables) such as the cantilever 10 and the holder 14 using the photographing unit 60 or 70, and compares, by image recognition or the like, the photographed image showing the parts with a photographed image showing a defective part (a part determined to require replacement) previously stored in the memory 104. When the control device 100B determines through the comparison using image recognition that the similarity between the two is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, it identifies that the part requires replacement.

[0151] As another method, the control device 100B calculates the usage period of parts (consumables) such as the cantilever 10 and the holder 14 during the previous or previous analysis, and judges whether the usage period exceeds a predetermined upper limit period. When the control device 100B judges that the usage period of the parts exceeds the predetermined upper limit period, it determines that the parts need to be replaced.

[0152] If the part does not need to be replaced (NO in S107B), the control device 100B ends this process. If the part needs to be replaced (YES in S107B), the control device 100B transmits request information requesting supplier information to the server device 300B (S108B). The request information includes at least one of information for identifying the user of the analysis device 1 (e.g., ID, password, user name, address, telephone number, etc.) and information for identifying the part used by the user (e.g., serial number, model, etc.).

[0153] The server device 300B determines whether or not the request information has been received (S301B). If the server device 300B has not received the request information (NO in S301B), the server device 300B ends this process. If the server device 300B has received the request information (YES in S301B), the server device 300B identifies supplier information based on the parts management table 342 and transmits the identified supplier information to the control device 100B (S32A).

[0154] After transmitting the request information in S108B, the control device 100B judges whether or not the supplier information has been received (S109B). If the control device 100B does not receive the supplier information within a predetermined time limit after transmitting the request information (NO in S109B), the control device 100B ends this process. If the control device 100B receives the supplier information within a predetermined time limit after transmitting the request information (YES in S109B), the control device 100B performs display control on the display device 105 based on the supplier information (S104B).

[0155] Specifically, the control device 100B performs display control on the display device 105 to display a part-related image 190 and a progress image 192 in a part of the parameter adjustment screen 154, as shown in Fig. 11. Note that the part-related image 190 may include a message such as "The usage period has exceeded 24 hours" as information regarding the degree of wear of the part. Thereafter, the control device 100B ends this process.

[0156] In this way, when a part needs to be replaced during a process in which the user is waiting, such as during parameter adjustment, the information providing system according to the modified example displays supplier information regarding a supplier of the part on the display device 105. This allows the information providing system to allow the user to analyze the sample S while providing convenience to the user.

[0157] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 8, information encouraging replacement of parts, information regarding the supplier of the parts, and information regarding the wear state of the parts are displayed on the software start-up screen 151, but other information may also be displayed. For example, the analytical device 1 may display information regarding advice on the analysis of the sample S or information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S on the display device 105 on the software start-up screen 151 as shown in Figs. 9 and 10.

[0158] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 9, information regarding advice for analyzing the sample S and information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S are displayed on the optical axis adjustment screen 152, but other information may also be displayed. For example, the analysis device 1 may display, on the optical axis adjustment screen 152, information encouraging replacement of parts, information regarding a supplier for parts, information regarding the degree of wear of parts, or live images or animation images captured of the process for analyzing the sample S, on the display device 105, as shown in Figs. 8 and 10.

[0159] In this embodiment, as shown in Fig. 10, a live image 181 capturing a process for analyzing the sample S and information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample S are displayed on the approach screen 153, but other information may also be displayed. For example, the analysis device 1 may display, on the display device 105, information regarding advice on the analysis of the sample S, information encouraging the replacement of parts, information regarding the supplier of the parts, or information regarding the degree of wear of the parts on the approach screen 153, as shown in Figs. 8 and 9.

[0160] Furthermore, the analysis device 1 may display, as the "predetermined information", information on another analysis device used by the user that is different from the analysis device 1 on the display device 105. For example, the analysis device 1 may display, on at least one of the software start-up screen 151, the optical axis adjustment screen 152, and the approach screen 153, a commercial message on another analysis device sold by the device manufacturer on the display device 105.

[0161] The analysis device 1 may display, as the "predetermined information", information related to advertising of the part on the display device 105. For example, the analysis device 1 may display, on the display device 105, a commercial message for a new part on at least one of the software start-up screen 151, the optical axis adjustment screen 152, and the approach screen 153.

[0162] The analysis device 1 may display, as the "predetermined information", on the display device 105, information that will not bore the user while waiting, such as fortune telling, weather forecasts, and games.

[0163] (Processing between server device and ordering terminal) 6, the server device 300 belonging to the equipment manufacturer can roughly predict the timing of parts replacement based on the user management table 343. For this reason, the server device 300 may transmit information contained in the user management table 343 to the ordering terminal 400 belonging to the parts manufacturer. In this way, the parts manufacturer can easily predict the timing of parts ordering and can conduct sales activities to users.

[0164] [Aspects] It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the exemplary embodiments described above are examples of the following aspects.

[0165] (Item 1-1) An analytical device for analyzing a sample according to one embodiment includes a display unit and a display control unit for controlling the display unit. The display control unit causes the display unit to display predetermined information during a step in which a user is waiting among steps for analyzing the sample.

[0166] According to the analytical device described in section 1-1, it is possible to allow a user to analyze a sample while minimizing stress on the user.

[0167] (Clause 1-2) The specified information includes at least one of information regarding advice for analyzing the sample, information regarding parts used in analyzing the sample, information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample, and information regarding other analytical equipment.

[0168] According to the analytical device described in paragraph 1-2, at least one of information regarding advice for sample analysis, information regarding parts used in sample analysis, information regarding the progress of sample analysis, and information regarding other analytical devices is displayed, thereby minimizing boredom for the user while waiting.

[0169] (Item 1-3) The information regarding the part includes at least one of information encouraging replacement of the part, information regarding a supplier of the part, information regarding the degree of wear of the part, and information regarding advertising of the part.

[0170] According to the analytical device described in paragraphs 1-3, at least one of information encouraging replacement of parts, information regarding the supplier of the parts, information regarding the wear state of the parts, and information regarding advertising for the parts is displayed, thereby making it possible to provide the user with information regarding the parts, thereby enabling the user to analyze samples while providing convenience to the user.

[0171] (Item 1-4) The analytical device further includes a determination unit that determines whether or not a part used in analyzing the sample needs to be replaced. When the part needs to be replaced, the display control unit causes information about the part to be displayed on the display unit.

[0172] According to the analytical device described in paragraphs 1-4, the user himself / herself determines whether or not parts need to be replaced, and if parts need to be replaced, the user himself / herself does not need to look up where to order the parts, etc. Therefore, the analytical device can allow the user to analyze samples while providing convenience to the user.

[0173] (Items 1-5) The information regarding the progress of the analysis of the sample includes at least one of photographed images of the steps for analyzing the sample and animated images of the steps for analyzing the sample.

[0174] According to the analytical device described in paragraphs 1-5, the user can wait while understanding the steps for analyzing the sample from the displayed captured images or animated images, thereby minimizing the user's waiting time from becoming bored.

[0175] (Items 1-6) The analytical device is a scanning probe microscope that obtains information about the surface of the sample by scanning a cantilever equipped with a probe along the surface of the sample. The step in which the user is waiting includes at least one of a step of adjusting an optical axis for detecting the movement of the cantilever, a step of bringing the probe closer to the surface of the sample, and a step of adjusting parameters.

[0176] According to the analytical device described in paragraphs 1-6, it is possible to allow the user to analyze samples while waiting for the user to perform automatic adjustments, such as the optical axis adjustment process, the approach process, and the parameter adjustment process, with as little stress as possible on the user.

[0177] (Clause 1-7) A display control method for controlling a display unit of an analytical device for analyzing a sample according to one embodiment includes a step of determining whether or not a process for analyzing the sample is a process for which a user is waiting, and a step of displaying specified information on the display unit during the process for which the user is waiting.

[0178] According to the display control method described in items 1-7, it is possible to allow the user to analyze a sample while minimizing stress on the user.

[0179] (Clause 1-8) A display control program for controlling a display unit of an analytical device for analyzing a sample in one embodiment causes a computer to execute a step of determining whether or not a process for analyzing the sample is a process for which a user is waiting, and a step of displaying specified information on the display unit during the process for which the user is waiting.

[0180] According to the display control program described in paragraphs 1-8, it is possible to allow a user to analyze a sample while minimizing stress on the user.

[0181] (Item 2-1) An information providing system for providing information on a part used in an analysis of a sample by an analytical device according to one embodiment includes a determination unit that determines whether or not replacement of the part is necessary, a display unit, and a display control unit that controls the display unit. When replacement of the part is necessary, the display control unit causes the display unit to display supplier information on a supplier of the part.

[0182] According to the information provision system described in Section 2-1, the user himself / herself determines whether or not parts need to be replaced, and if parts need to be replaced, the user himself / herself does not need to look up where to order the parts, etc. Therefore, the information provision system can allow the user to analyze samples while providing convenience to the user.

[0183] (Clause 2-2) The information providing system includes the analysis device and a server device that communicates with the analysis device. The analysis device includes a device-side communication unit that communicates with the server device, the display unit, and the display control unit. The server device includes a server-side communication unit that communicates with the analysis device, and the determination unit. The analysis device transmits, via the device-side communication unit, determination information for determining whether or not replacement of the part is necessary to the server device. The server device determines, via the determination unit, whether or not replacement of the part is necessary based on the determination information, and if replacement of the part is necessary, transmits the supplier information to the analysis device via the server-side communication unit. The analysis device causes the display control unit to display the supplier information on the display unit.

[0184] According to the information provision system described in Section 2-2, the user himself / herself determines whether or not parts need to be replaced, and if parts need to be replaced, the user himself / herself does not need to look up where to order the parts, etc. Therefore, the information provision system can allow the user to analyze samples while providing convenience to the user.

[0185] (Clause 2-3) The information providing system includes the analysis device and a server device that communicates with the analysis device. The analysis device includes a device-side communication unit that communicates with the server device, the determination unit, the display unit, and the display control unit. The server device includes a server-side communication unit that communicates with the analysis device. The analysis device determines whether or not replacement of the part is necessary using the determination unit, and if replacement of the part is necessary, transmits request information requesting the supplier information to the server device using the device-side communication unit. The server device transmits the supplier information to the analysis device based on the request information using the server-side communication unit. The analysis device causes the display control unit to display the supplier information on the display unit.

[0186] According to the information provision system described in Section 2-3, the user himself / herself determines whether or not parts need to be replaced, and if parts need to be replaced, the user himself / herself does not need to look up where to order the parts, etc. Therefore, the information provision system can allow the user to analyze samples while providing convenience to the user.

[0187] (Clause 2-4) The supplier information includes an address for the user to place an order for the part with the supplier.

[0188] According to the information providing system described in section 2-4, it is possible to allow the user to efficiently order parts.

[0189] (Item 2-5) The display control unit causes the supplier information to be displayed on the display unit during a step in which a user is waiting, among steps for analyzing the sample.

[0190] According to the information provision system described in section 2-5, it is possible to encourage the user to replace parts by utilizing the waiting time, a time when the user tends to get bored.

[0191] (Item 2-6) The analytical device is a scanning probe microscope that obtains information about the surface of the sample by scanning a cantilever equipped with a probe along the surface of the sample. The step in which the user is waiting includes at least one of a step of adjusting an optical axis for detecting the movement of the cantilever, a step of bringing the probe closer to the surface of the sample, and a step of adjusting parameters.

[0192] According to the analytical device described in section 2-6, it is possible to prompt the user to replace parts during user standby steps in which automatic adjustment is performed, such as the optical axis adjustment step, the approach step, and the parameter adjustment step.

[0193] (Clause 2-7) A server device that communicates with an analytical device that analyzes a sample according to one embodiment includes a server-side communication unit that communicates with the analytical device, and a determination unit that determines whether or not a part used in analyzing the sample needs to be replaced. When the part needs to be replaced, the server-side communication unit transmits supplier information regarding a supplier of the part to the analytical device.

[0194] According to the server device described in paragraph 2-7, the user himself / herself determines whether or not parts need to be replaced, and if parts need to be replaced, the user himself / herself does not need to look up where to order the parts, etc. Therefore, the server device can allow the user to analyze samples while providing convenience to the user.

[0195] (Item 2-8) An analytical device for analyzing a sample according to one embodiment includes a determination unit for determining whether or not a part used in analyzing the sample needs to be replaced, a display unit, and a display control unit for controlling the display unit. When the part needs to be replaced, the display control unit causes the display unit to display supplier information regarding a supplier of the part.

[0196] According to the analytical device described in paragraph 2-8, the user himself / herself determines whether or not parts need to be replaced, and if parts need to be replaced, the user himself / herself does not need to look up where to order the parts, etc. Therefore, the analytical device can allow the user to analyze samples while providing convenience to the user.

[0197] (Clause 2-9) An information providing method for providing information regarding a part used in analyzing a sample by an analytical device for analyzing a sample according to one embodiment includes a step of determining whether replacement of the part is necessary, and a step of displaying supplier information regarding the supplier of the part on a display unit if replacement of the part is necessary.

[0198] According to the information provision method described in paragraph 2-9, the user himself / herself determines whether or not a part needs to be replaced, and if a part needs to be replaced, the user himself / herself does not need to look up where to order the part, etc. Therefore, the information provision method allows the user to analyze samples while providing convenience to the user.

[0199] (Clause 2-10) An information providing method for providing information regarding a part used in analyzing a sample by an analytical device for analyzing a sample according to one embodiment includes a step of determining whether replacement of the part is necessary, and if replacement of the part is necessary, a step of notifying a supplier of the part of at least one of information indicating the need for replacement of the part and information identifying the analytical device.

[0200] According to the information providing method described in paragraph 2-10, the user himself / herself determines whether or not a part needs to be replaced, and if a part needs to be replaced, the user himself / herself does not need to contact the supplier of the part. Therefore, the information providing method can allow the user to analyze samples while providing convenience to the user. [Explanation of symbols]

[0201] 1 Analytical device, 2 Network, 10 Cantilever, 12 Needle, 14 Holder, 20 Optical system, 22 Laser light source, 24 Beam splitter, 26 Reflector, 28 Detector, 50 Scanner, 52 Sample holder, 60, 70 Photographing unit, 100 Control device, 102, 302 Processor, 103, 303 Communication device, 104, 304 Memory, 105 Display device, 106 Input device, 112, 312 Calculation unit, 113 Device side communication unit, 114, 314 Memory unit, 115 Display unit, 116 Input unit, 121 Analysis unit, 122 Display control unit, 141 Display control program, 142 Analysis program, 151 Software start-up screen, 152 Optical axis adjustment screen, 153 Approach screen, 154 Parameter adjustment screen, 160, 190 Part-related image, 171 advice image, 172, 182, 192 progress image, 175 progress bar, 181 live image, 185, 195 spinner image, 200 observation device, 300, 300A, 300B server device, 313 server side communication unit, 321 judgment unit, 341 information provision program, 342 part management table, 343 user management table, 400, 400A, 400B, 400C ordering terminal, 1000 information provision system.

Claims

1. 1. An analytical device that is a scanning probe microscope that obtains information about a surface of a sample by scanning a cantilever equipped with a probe along the surface of the sample, A light source; A display unit; A display control unit that controls the display unit, the display control unit causes the display unit to display predetermined information in a step of adjusting an optical axis of the light source for detecting an operation of the cantilever before a user sets the sample; The predetermined information includes at least one of information regarding advice for analyzing the sample and information regarding other analytical devices.

2. The predetermined information further includes information regarding a part used in the analysis of the sample, The analysis device according to claim 1 , wherein the information regarding the part includes at least one of information encouraging replacement of the part, information regarding a supplier for the part, information regarding the degree of wear of the part, and information regarding advertising for the part.

3. a determination unit that determines whether or not a part used in the analysis of the sample needs to be replaced; The predetermined information further includes information regarding a part used in the analysis of the sample, The analyzer according to claim 1 , wherein the display control unit is configured to, when replacement of the part is required, cause the display unit to display information related to the part.

4. 1. A display control method for controlling a display unit of an analytical apparatus that is a scanning probe microscope that obtains information about a surface of a sample by scanning a cantilever equipped with a probe along the surface of the sample, comprising: A step of determining whether or not a user is performing a step of adjusting an optical axis of a light source for detecting the movement of the cantilever before the step of setting the sample; In the step of adjusting the optical axis, a step of displaying predetermined information on the display unit is included; A display control method, wherein the predetermined information includes at least one of information regarding advice for analyzing the sample and information regarding other analytical devices.

5. A display control program for controlling a display unit of an analytical apparatus that is a scanning probe microscope for obtaining information about a surface of a sample by scanning a cantilever equipped with a probe along the surface of the sample, the program comprising: On the computer, A step of determining whether or not a user is performing a step of adjusting an optical axis of a light source for detecting the movement of the cantilever before the step of setting the sample; and in the step of adjusting the optical axis, executing a step of displaying predetermined information on the display unit. The predetermined information includes at least one of information regarding advice for analyzing the sample and information regarding other analytical devices.

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