Information processing device, information processing system, control method thereof, and program

Abstract

To provide a mechanism which enables easy application of settings to design data.SOLUTION: An information processing device storing first design data and second design data is used to function as: selection reception means for receiving selection of setting information set in the first design data, and control means for providing control to apply the setting information, whose selection has been acknowledged by the selection reception means, to the second design data.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 15

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing system, a control method thereof, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] When designing with 3D CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, there are times when you want to reuse information from existing design data.

[0003] For example, design information such as drawing number, name, production number, customer name, material, creation date, etc., and dimensions of parts.

[0004] When creating similar parts, these pieces of information have to be set for each individual part, which is time-consuming.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Disclosure of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Patent Document 1 describes a technique for fixing a label that moves as the 3D model rotates so that it is easy to input when manually setting attribute information on the 3D model. However, ultimately, each attribute has to be manually input and applied, which takes time.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that can easily apply settings to design data.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0008] An acquisition means for acquiring setting information from first design data; A change reception means for receiving changes to components of second design data; A control means for controlling to apply the setting information acquired from the first design data to the setting information included in the second design data after the change by the change reception means; It is characterized by comprising the above.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, a mechanism that can easily apply settings to design data can be provided.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

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Figure 16

[0011] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0012] The client terminal 100 and the server 200 are connected via the network 101. In this embodiment, it is assumed that the network 101 is a LAN (Local Area Network), but a WAN (Wide Area Network) may also be used.

[0013] CAD software (hereinafter referred to as CAD) is installed on the client terminal 100.

[0014] CAD is an application that can generate and edit two-dimensional design data and three-dimensional design data. The design data is generated as a file (CAD file) editable by CAD and stored in the storage area of the client terminal 100 or the server 200.

[0015] Note that the design data includes types such as parts / assemblies / drawings, etc. A drawing is a two-dimensional drawing obtained by projecting the three-dimensional information of a part / assembly onto a plane and inserting dimension notations, etc. Details of parts / assemblies will be described later.

[0016] The client terminal 100 is a terminal operated by an operator who creates design data using CAD. The created design data is stored in the client terminal 100 and transmitted to the server 200 by management software (client) for storage.

[0017] The server 200 is a server that stores design data created using CAD installed on the client terminal 100.

[0018] Stored in the server 200 is management software (server), which is an application for managing the storage location and editing state of the CAD file.

[0019] Also, design assistance software is installed on the client terminal 100. The design assistance software is software that functions as an add-on for CAD. The above is the description of FIG. 1.

[0020] Next, with reference to FIG. 2, an example of the hardware configuration of various devices in the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0021] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration applicable to the client terminal 100 and the server 200 shown in FIG. 1.

[0022] In FIG. 2, 201 is a CPU that comprehensively controls each device and controller connected to the system bus 204.

[0023] Also, stored in the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 are a BIOS (Basic Input / Output System), which is a control program for the CPU 201, an operating system (hereinafter referred to as OS), and various programs described later that are necessary to realize the functions executed by each server or each PC.

[0024] 203 is a RAM, which functions as the main memory, work area, etc. of the CPU 201. The CPU 201 loads programs and the like required for executing processes from the ROM 202 or the external memory 211 into the RAM 203, and realizes various operations by executing the loaded programs.

[0025] Also, 205 is an input controller, which controls inputs from input devices 209 such as a keyboard (KB) and pointing devices such as a mouse (not shown).

[0026] The input device is not limited to this, and it may be a touch panel capable of detecting the positions touched by multiple fingers, such as a multi-touch screen.

[0027] By pressing (touching with a finger or the like) in accordance with icons, cursors, buttons, etc. displayed on the touch panel, various instructions can be given.

[0028] 206 is a video controller, which controls the display on the display 210 which is a display device. Note that the display 210 is assumed to be a display device such as a CRT display or a liquid crystal display.

[0029] Also, it may be a display of a notebook personal computer integrated with the information processing apparatus main body, or a projector. These are used by the administrator as required.

[0030] Also, the display 210 capable of receiving touch operations holds the function as the input device 209.

[0031] 207 is a memory controller, which controls access to an external memory 211 such as a hard disk (HD) that stores a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, edited files, various data, etc., a flexible disk (FD), or a compact flash (registered trademark) memory connected via an adapter to a PCMCIA card slot.

[0032] 208 is a communication I / F controller that connects to and communicates with external devices via a network (e.g., the network 101 shown in FIG. 1), and executes communication control processing on the network. For example, communication using TCP / IP or the like is possible.

[0033] Note that the CPU 201 enables display on the display 210 by executing outline font expansion (rasterization) processing in, for example, the display information area in the RAM 203. Further, the CPU 201 enables user instructions using a mouse cursor (not shown) or the like on the display 210.

[0034] Various programs described later for realizing the present invention are recorded in the external memory 211, and are executed by the CPU 201 by being loaded into the RAM 203 as necessary.

[0035] Furthermore, a definition file and various information tables used when executing the above programs are also stored in the external memory 211, and detailed descriptions thereof will be given later. The above is the description of FIG. 2.

[0036] Next, with reference to FIG. 3, an example of the functional configuration of various devices in the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0037] The client terminal 100 includes a file storage unit 301, a file editing unit 311, and the like.

[0038] The file storage unit 301 is a storage unit that stores CAD files.

[0039] Note that the three-dimensional design data (3D CAD file) created and edited with the CAD file includes parts and assemblies composed of a plurality of parts.

[0040] In this embodiment, the file of an assembled product is referred to as an assembly file. Further, parts and assembled products that constitute a designed object represented by a 3D CAD file are collectively referred to as components.

[0041] An assembly file is a file that represents an assembled product composed of a plurality of parts by referring to the plurality of parts. Details will be described later in the explanation of FIG. 4.

[0042] The file editing unit 311 is a processing unit that executes editing of a part in accordance with an editing operation on the part in the CAD file being developed in CAD, and is also a processing unit that executes editing of the assembly file in accordance with an editing operation of the assembly file. That is, it is a functional unit for editing a CAD file.

[0043] The selection screen display unit 321 is a functional unit that displays selectable setting items such as dimensions and properties.

[0044] The dimension selection reception unit 322 is a functional unit that receives selection of a dimension. For example, it is a functional unit that receives selection of a dimension to be diverted in the file of the source for diversion.

[0045] The property selection reception unit 323 is a functional unit that receives selection of a property. For example, it is a functional unit that receives selection of a property to be diverted in the file of the source for diversion.

[0046] The definition information output unit 324 is a functional unit that outputs the information received by the dimension selection reception unit 322 and the property selection reception unit 323 to the storage unit as a definition information file.

[0047] The definition information acquisition unit 325 is a functional unit that acquires the definition information output by the definition information output unit 324. That is, it is a functional unit that acquires the information stored for diversion.

[0048] The change information display unit 326 is a display unit that displays how the target information is changed based on the definition information acquired by the definition information acquisition unit 325. For example, it displays a screen for comparing the information before and after the change.

[0049] The batch change screen display unit 327 is a functional unit that displays a screen for determining what to change based on the definition information acquired by the definition information acquisition unit 325. For example, it displays a screen where it is possible to select whether to change dimensions, properties, or both. What information to change is selected by selecting the function to change the target information. For example, it is displayed so that it is possible to select which of the dimension change function and the property change function to execute.

[0050] The control unit 328 is a functional unit that changes the target information based on the definition information according to the content instructed by the batch change screen display unit 327. For example, it transmits the information after the change to the CAD software and instructs the CAD software to execute the change.

[0051] The file editing unit 311 of the CAD software edits (changes) the file information according to the instruction.

[0052] The server 200 includes a file storage unit 331 and the like. The file storage unit 331 is a storage unit that stores CAD files. The above is the description of FIG. 3.

[0053] Next, referring to FIG. 4, an example of the assembly configuration information in the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0054] The assembly configuration information 400 is the information in the assembly file. The assembly configuration information stores which parts the assembly file refers to. That is, it is the information indicating which parts the assembled product is composed of.

[0055] The assembly configuration information 400 is composed of a record No. 401, a level 402, a folder path 403, a file name 404, a configuration path 405, a type 406, a configuration name 407, etc.

[0056] The record No. 401 is the identification information of each record in the assembly configuration information 400. The level 402 indicates the configuration hierarchy of each record. The folder path 403 indicates the folder path where the file of each record is stored.

[0057] The file name 404 indicates the file name of the assembly file or component file indicated by the processing record.

[0058] The configuration path 405 indicates the reference relationship between the assembly file and the component file, and between the assembly files. For example, a null value is registered in the value of the configuration path 405 located at the vertex of the reference relationship.

[0059] The assembly file that is the vertex of the reference relationship is called the top assembly. Specifically, the record with record No. 401 = 1 shown in the assembly configuration information 400 in FIG. 4 corresponds to this.

[0060] The configuration path of the assembly file (Assy1) that is directly referenced by the top assembly (TopAssy) is TopAssy.

[0061] This indicates that Assy1 is directly referenced by TopAssy. Specifically, the record with record No. 401 = 2 shown in the assembly configuration information 400 in FIG. 4 corresponds to this.

[0062] Furthermore, the configuration path of the component file (Part1) that is indirectly referenced by TopAssy via Assy1 is TopAssy / Assy1.

[0063] This indicates that Part1 is directly referenced by Assy1 and indirectly referenced by TopAssy. Specifically, records No=3, 4, and 5 shown in the assembly configuration information 400 of Figure 4 correspond to this.

[0064] Type 406 stores the type of the processing file. The type indicates whether the file shown in each record is an assembly file (Assy) or a part file (Part). Whether it is an assembly file or a part file is distinguished by the file extension.

[0065] The configuration name 407 is identification information for the variation of the file shown in the file name 404. The variation is stored and managed within one file. The variation refers to variations such as the right-handed version or the left-handed version of the parts of a certain file.

[0066] For example, in the file with file name 404 = Part2, there are variations of the right-handed version and the left-handed version of the 3D part represented by Part2, and their names are stored as the configuration name. The above is the description of Figure 4.

[0067] Note that the editing history of the design data is stored in the CAD file. For example, when an assembly file is opened and a part file within the assembly file is edited, the information of the editing history is stored in the assembly file.

[0068] The information of the editing history is stored and managed, for example, by listing features in chronological order. A feature is the call name of a command for editing a part. The feature information stores which part, at which location, and what type / parameter features have been applied.

[0069] Referring to Figure 5, an example of the feature information in the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0070] The feature information 500 is composed of an ID 501, a feature name 502, a feature type 503, an applicable location 504, a color scheme (color information) 505, a last edit date and time 506, a last editor 507, and the like.

[0071] The ID 501 indicates an ID for uniquely identifying a feature. The feature name 502 is the name of each feature. The feature type 503 indicates the type (category) of the feature.

[0072] The applicable location (element) 504 indicates the element to which the feature is applied.

[0073] Elements in a CAD file are, for example, elements such as points, lines, and surfaces on a part.

[0074] The color scheme 505 indicates information on the color setting of the feature. The color set in the color scheme 505 is used to color the part of the part that is deformed / generated by the feature.

[0075] The last edit date and time 506 records the date and time when the feature was last edited. The last editor 507 records the user name of the user who last edited the feature. The above is the description of FIG. 5.

[0076] Next, referring to FIG. 6, the outline of the definition output process in the embodiment of the present invention will be described. Note that the processing of this flowchart is executed by the CPU 201 of the client terminal 100, which is one of the information processing devices, using the functions of each functional unit.

[0077] In step S601, the client terminal 100 executes a dimensional definition output process. For example, it is a process of outputting and storing dimensional information that is desired to be reused in other design data from existing design data to a definition file.

[0078] Also, in step S602, a property definition output process is executed. For example, it is a process of outputting and storing property information that is desired to be reused in other design data from existing design data to a definition file.

[0079] The above is the process of FIG. 4. The details of the output process of dimension definition (step S601) will be described later in the explanation of FIG. 7. Also, the details of the output process of property definition (step S602) will be described later in the explanation of FIG. 8.

[0080] Next, referring to FIG. 7, the details of the output process of dimension definition will be described. The process of this flowchart is executed by the CPU 201 of the client terminal 100, which is one of the information processing devices, using the functions of each functional unit.

[0081] In step S701, the client terminal 100 displays a dimension definition creation / editing screen (shown in 1300 of FIG. 13).

[0082] Here, referring to FIG. 13, the dimension definition creation / editing screen 1300 will be described. The screen is composed of a file name 1301, a dimension definition model ID 1302, a definition file 1303, a display unit 1304, a selection reception unit 1305, a "Save" button 1306, etc.

[0083] The file name 1301 is a display unit that acquires and displays the file name of the model (active model) that is active on the CAD software. The file name mentioned here is, for example, the file name of 404 in FIG. 4, and is also referred to as the component part name. It is assumed that the file name is unique.

[0084] In this embodiment, the file name is registered in the system setting file of the design assistance tool. Also, in the system setting file, the identification information (model ID) of the model is registered in association with the file name.

[0085] There are two types of this model ID: "dimension definition model ID" and "property definition model ID". They are the identification information used in the dimension change function of the design assistance software and the identification information used in the property change function, respectively.

[0086] The process of associating a file name with a dimension definition model ID and a property definition model ID is executed by the CPU 201 of the client terminal 100 using the ID setting function of the design support software and stored in an external memory.

[0087] When making the association, the ID setting screen 1600 in FIG. 16 is displayed, and creation and storage of each ID are performed according to user operations. Specifically, the file name of each component of the active file is acquired and displayed in the component list 1601. Then, input of values for the dimension definition model ID 1602 and the property definition model ID 1603 is accepted. When acceptance of pressing the "Settings" button 1604 is received, the model name in 1601 and the values (IDs) input in 1602 and 1603 are associated and registered / stored in the system settings file.

[0088] An example of the system settings file is shown as 1460 in FIG. 14. In the system settings file in the present invention, the file name 1461, the folder path of the file, the dimension definition model ID 1462, and the information of the location (folder path 1463) where the dimension information (dimension definition information) to be diverted from the file with the dimension definition model ID set is stored are stored in association. It is assumed that the file name of the file (definition file in which the dimension definition information is stored) indicated by the path is stored at the end of the folder path.

[0089] Also, the file name 1461, the property definition model ID 1464, and the information of the location (folder path 1465) where the property information (property definition information) to be diverted from the file with the property definition model ID set is stored are stored in association. It is assumed that the file name of the file (definition file in which the property definition information is stored) indicated by the path is stored at the end of the folder path. Return to the description of FIG. 13.

[0090] The dimension definition model ID 1302 is a display unit that acquires and displays the value of the dimension definition model ID (1462) stored in association with the active model in the system configuration file.

[0091] Specifically, the acquired file name specified by 1301 is obtained from the file name 1461 of the system configuration file 1460, and the dimension definition model ID 1462 corresponding to the file name is obtained and displayed.

[0092] The definition file 1303 displays the dimension definition folder path (folder path 1463) defined in the system configuration file.

[0093] The display unit 1304 is a display unit that displays the dimension list of the active model in a selectable manner.

[0094] The selection reception unit 1305 is a checkbox that receives the selection of dimension information to be set (registered) in the dimension definition file in which the folder path is displayed in 1303 among the displayed dimensions.

[0095] An example of the dimension information set in the active model is shown in the dimension information 1400 of FIG. 14. 1401 is the dimension name, and the display dimension name 1402 is the dimension name to be displayed on the CAD software. There are multiple types of dimension names, such as height, width, depth, etc. The value 1403 is the value (setting information) of the dimension at the location indicated by the dimension name.

[0096] The "Save" button 1306 is a button for saving the dimensions selected by the selection reception unit 1305 as dimension definitions (information on dimensions to be diverted).

[0097] Return to the description of FIG. 7. In step S702, the client terminal 100 selects a model for which to display dimensions on the display unit 1304. Specifically, the active model on the CAD software is identified, selected, and the file name is displayed in 1301.

[0098] In step S703, the client terminal 100 displays the dimension list of the model selected in step S702 on the display unit 1304.

[0099] Here, referring to the system configuration file 1460, the dimension definition (the dimension definition file corresponding to the dimension definition model ID 1462 corresponding to the file name 1461 of the active model) corresponding to the file name 1461 of the active model is specified from the folder path 1463. For the rows of dimension names for which values have already been registered in the dimension definition file, the background color is displayed differently from the background color of unregistered dimensions.

[0100] In this way, by separately displaying the dimensions that have been registered as information to be diverted from the unregistered dimensions, there is an effect that it is easy to confirm whether there is any omission in registration.

[0101] Also, it becomes possible to easily confirm whether the value of each dimension name to be registered in the dimension definition file will be newly registered as an unregistered dimension or will be registered by overwriting an already registered value.

[0102] For example, the user can confirm this identification display, check and register the values only for unregistered dimensions (dimension names), and thus can perform the operation of registering values in the dimension definition without the trouble of checking extra values (values that have already been registered in the dimension definition), so there is an effect that the registration operation is made more efficient.

[0103] Also, for the dimensions that have already been registered in the dimension definition file, the selection reception unit 1305 is displayed in a selected state.

[0104] By doing so, it is possible to reduce the trouble of re-selecting the dimensions (dimension values of dimension names that the user has judged should be diverted) that have once been selected as those to be registered in the dimension definition.

[0105] Also, there is an effect that it is possible to prevent selection omissions, such as updating the dimension definition file without selecting the dimensions of the dimension names that the user has once judged should be diverted this time.

[0106] In step S704, the client terminal 100 receives a dimension selection by receiving a click operation or the like on the selection reception unit 1305.

[0107] In step S705, the client terminal 100 receives the pressing of the "Save" button 1306. Then, the information of the selected dimension is stored in the storage unit by outputting it to the dimension definition file stored in the path displayed on 1303.

[0108] For example, as shown in 1410 of FIG. 14, only the selected dimensions among the dimension information 1400 are stored as dimension definition information. That is, 1410 is an example of the dimension definition file. The above is the description of the details of the dimension definition output process in FIG. 7.

[0109] Next, referring to FIG. 8, an explanation will be given regarding the details of the property definition output process in the embodiment of the present invention. The processing of this flowchart is executed by the CPU 201 of the client terminal 100, which is one of the information processing apparatuses, using the functions of each functional unit.

[0110] In step S801, the client terminal 100 displays a property definition creation / editing screen (shown in 1310 of FIG. 13).

[0111] Here, referring to FIG. 13, the property definition creation / editing screen 1310 will be described. The screen is composed of a file name 1311, a property definition model ID 1312, a definition file 1313, a display unit 1314, a selection reception unit 1315, a "Save" button 1316, and the like.

[0112] The file name 1311 is a display unit that acquires and displays the file name of the model (active model) that is active on the CAD software.

[0113] The property definition model ID 1312 is a display unit that acquires and displays the value of the property definition model ID (1464) stored in association with the active model in the system configuration file.

[0114] The definition file 1313 displays the folder path 1465 defined in the system configuration file 1460.

[0115] The display unit 1314 is a display unit that displays a selectable list of properties of the active model. The selection reception unit 1315 is a check box that receives the selection of property information (setting information) to be set (registered) in the property definition file among the displayed properties.

[0116] In the design data file, an example of the property information set in the active model is shown as the property information 1420 in FIG. 14. 1421 is the property name. The type 1422 indicates the type of property that can be set for the property. For example, "text", "date", "integer", etc. The value 1423 is the value set for the property and indicates the content of the property.

[0117] The "Save" button 1316 is a button for saving the property selected by the selection reception unit 1315 as a property definition.

[0118] Return to the description of FIG. 8. In step S802, the client terminal 100 selects a model for which to display a list of properties in the display unit 1314. Specifically, the active model on the CAD software is identified, selected, and its file name is displayed in 1311.

[0119] In step S803, the client terminal 100 displays a list of properties of the model selected in step S802 in the display unit 1314.

[0120] Here, the system configuration file 1460 is referred to, and the property definition corresponding to the active model (the property definition file corresponding to the property definition model ID 1464 corresponding to the active model) is specified from the folder path 1465.

[0121] In this way, by identifying and displaying the properties that have been registered as information to be diverted as unregistered properties, there is an effect that it is easy to confirm whether there is any omission in registration.

[0122] Also, it becomes possible to easily confirm whether the value of each property name to be registered in the property definition file from now on is newly registered as an unregistered property or is registered by overwriting an already registered value.

[0123] For example, the user can confirm this identification display, check and register the values only for unregistered properties (property names), and thus can perform the operation of registering values in the property definition without the trouble of checking extra values (values that have already been registered in the property definition), so there is an effect that the registration operation is made more efficient.

[0124] Also, for the properties that have already been registered in the property definition file, the selection reception unit 1315 is displayed in a selected state.

[0125] By doing so, it is possible to reduce the trouble of reselecting for the properties (property values of the property names that the user has judged should be diverted) that have once been selected as those to be registered in the property definition.

[0126] Also, there is an effect that it is possible to prevent omission of selection, such as updating the property definition file without selecting the value of the property name that the user has once judged should be diverted this time.

[0127] In step S804, the client terminal 100 receives the selection of a property by receiving a click operation or the like on the selection reception unit 1315.

[0128] In step S805, the client terminal 100 receives the pressing of the "Save" button 1316. Then, the information of the property being selected is output to the property definition file and stored in the storage unit.

[0129] For example, as shown in 1430 of FIG. 14, only the information of the selected property among the property information 1420 is stored as property definition information. That is, 1430 is an example of a property definition file. The above is the description regarding the details of the output process of property definition in FIG. 8.

[0130] As described above, by the processes of FIGS. 6 to 8, the selection, specification, and output of the definition information (information to be diverted) for each of the dimensions and properties are completed.

[0131] Next, referring to FIG. 9, an overview of the definition application process in the embodiment of the present invention will be described. The process of this flowchart is executed by the CPU 201 of the client terminal 100, which is one of the information processing devices, using the functions of each functional unit.

[0132] In step S901, the client terminal 100 performs a setting process for dimension change. The details of this process (step S901) will be described later in the description of FIG. 10.

[0133] In step S902, the client terminal 100 performs a setting process for property change. The details of this process (step S902) will be described later in the description of FIG. 11.

[0134] In step S903, the client terminal 100 batch-executes the changes in dimensions and properties based on the settings performed in step S901 and step S902. The details of this process (step S903) will be described later in the description of FIG. 12. The above is the description of FIG. 9.

[0135] First, referring to FIG. 10, the details of the setting process for dimensional changes (shape changes due to dimensional changes) in the embodiments of the present invention will be described. The processing of this flowchart is executed by the CPU 201 of the client terminal 100, which is one of the information processing devices, using the functions of each functional unit.

[0136] In step S1001, the client terminal 100 displays a shape change screen 1500 (FIG. 15).

[0137] Here, referring to FIG. 15, the configuration of the shape change screen 1500 will be described. The shape change screen 1500 is composed of a definition file specifying section 1501, a model configuration display section 1502, a dimensional comparison display section 1503, a "setting completed" button 1504, and the like.

[0138] The definition file specifying section 1501 is a functional unit that accepts the specification of a desired definition file among the definition files stored in the paths shown in each folder path 1463 of FIG. 14.

[0139] The model configuration display section 1502 is a display section that displays the configuration (list of component parts) of the active file at the time when the shape change screen 1500 is displayed in a selectable manner.

[0140] The dimensional comparison display section 1503 displays the dimension names that match the dimension names for which dimension values are registered in the definition file specified in 1501 among the dimension names of the dimensions of the model (e.g., component) selected in the model configuration display section 1502. Also, for the dimension indicated by the dimension name, the value currently set in the model selected in the model configuration display section 1502 and the value registered in the definition file specified in 1501 are displayed in an associated manner (enabling recognition of the correspondence relationship) so that they can be confirmed and compared.

[0141] The "Settings Completed" button 1504 is a button for associating and storing the file name of the part and the dimension value (value (after change)) stored in the dimension definition file and displayed in the dimension comparison display section 1503 with the model (e.g., part) selected in 1502. The above is the description of the configuration of the shape change screen 1500.

[0142] Return to the description of FIG. 10. In step S1002, the client terminal 100 receives the specification of a definition file. For example, the client terminal 100 receives a selection operation of a definition file stored therein. Then, the specified and selected file is read and expanded onto the RAM.

[0143] In step S1003, the client terminal 100 receives the selection of a model. Here, among the models displayed in the model configuration display section 1502, the model selected by a selection operation such as a mouse click is the model that has received the selection.

[0144] In step S1004, the client terminal 100 displays the dimension names defined in the definition file specified in step S1002 and possessed by the model selected in step S1003. Specifically, it is displayed in a list in the "Dimension Name" item of the dimension comparison display section 1503.

[0145] In step S1005, the client terminal 100 displays the currently set dimension value as "Value (Current)" for each dimension in the model selected in step S1003. Also, the value of each dimension in the definition file specified in step S1002 is displayed as "Value (After Change)" as the changed dimension.

[0146] In step S1006, the client terminal 100 receives the pressing of the "Settings Completed" button 1504. That is, it receives an instruction to store the changed value in order to change the dimension value in each dimension name displayed in the dimension comparison display section 1503 from "Value (Before Change)" to "Value (After Change)".

[0147] In step S1007, the client terminal 100 temporarily stores in the storage area the value of "Value (after change)" in association with each dimension name of the model and the file name selected in 1502. The above is the description of FIG. 10.

[0148] As described above, according to the process of FIG. 10, it is possible to easily confirm which dimension of which component should be the item to divert the value from other components.

[0149] Also, for each dimension, it is possible to easily confirm what values are registered as the dimension values to be diverted.

[0150] Also, it is possible to confirm how the dimension values before diversion and after diversion change for each dimension.

[0151] This makes it easy for the user to determine whether to divert the dimension.

[0152] That is, it is possible to provide a mechanism that can easily apply settings to the design data.

[0153] Next, referring to FIG. 11, the details of the property change setting process in the embodiment of the present invention will be described. The process of this flowchart is executed by the CPU 201 of the client terminal 100, which is one of the information processing devices, using the functions of each functional unit.

[0154] In step S1101, the client terminal 100 displays a property change screen 1510 (FIG. 15).

[0155] Here, referring to FIG. 15, the configuration of the property change screen 1510 will be described. The property change screen 1510 includes a definition file specification section 1511, a model configuration display section 1512, a property comparison display section 1513, a "Setting Completed" button 1504, and the like.

[0156] The definition file specifying section 1511 is a functional section that accepts the specification of a desired definition file among the definition files stored in the paths shown in each folder path 1465 of FIG. 14.

[0157] The model configuration display section 1512 is a display section that displays the configuration (list of component parts) of the active file at the time when the property change screen 1510 is displayed in a selectable manner.

[0158] The property comparison display section 1513 displays the property names that match the property names for which values are registered in the definition file specified in 1511 among the properties of the model (e.g., component) selected in the model configuration display section 1512. Also, it is a display section that displays, in an associated manner and in a way that can be confirmed and compared, the value indicated by the property name, which is currently set in the model selected in the model configuration display section 1512, and the value registered in the definition file specified in 1511.

[0159] The "Setting Completed" button 1514 is a button for associating and storing the file name of the component and the property value (value (after change)) in order to apply the property value (value (after change)) stored in the property definition file, which is displayed in the property comparison display section 1513, to the model (e.g., component) selected in 1512. The above is the description of the configuration of the property change screen 1510.

[0160] Returning to the description of FIG. 11. In step S1102, the client terminal 100 accepts the specification of a definition file, for example, accepts a selection operation of a definition file stored in the client terminal 100. Then, it reads the specified and selected file and expands it on the RAM.

[0161] In step S1103, the client terminal 100 accepts the selection of a model. Here, among the models displayed in the model configuration display section 1512, the model selected by a selection operation such as a mouse click is taken as the model that has accepted the selection.

[0162] In step S1104, the client terminal 100 displays the property names defined in the definition file received in step S1102 and possessed by the model received in step S1103. Specifically, the property names are listed in the "Property Name" item of the property comparison display unit 1513.

[0163] In step S1105, the client terminal 100 displays the values of each property name in the model received in step S1103 as "Value (Current)". Also, the values of each property name in the definition file specified in step S1102 are displayed as "Value (After Change)" as the changed values.

[0164] In step S1106, the client terminal 100 receives the pressing of the "Setting Completed" button 1504. That is, it receives an instruction to store the changed values in order to change the values of each property name displayed in the property comparison display unit 1513 from "Value (Before Change)" to "Value (After Change)".

[0165] In step S1107, the client terminal 100 temporarily stores the "Value (After Change)" values in the storage area in association with each property name of the model and the file name of the component selected in 1512. The above is the description of FIG. 11.

[0166] As described above, according to the process of FIG. 11, it is possible to easily confirm which property name values in which components should be diverted from other components.

[0167] Also, for each property, it is possible to easily confirm what values are registered as the property values to be diverted.

[0168] Also, it is possible to confirm how the property values before diversion and after diversion change for each property.

[0169] This makes it easier for the user to determine whether to divert the property.

[0170] That is, it is possible to provide a mechanism that can easily apply settings to the design data.

[0171] Next, referring to FIG. 12, the details of the batch execution process (a process for batch-executing changes in dimensions and properties) in the embodiment of the present invention will be described. The processing of this flowchart is executed by the CPU 201 of the client terminal 100, which is one of the information processing apparatuses, using the functions of each functional unit.

[0172] In step S1201, the client terminal 100 displays a batch execution screen 1520 (FIG. 15).

[0173] Here, referring to FIG. 15, the configuration of the batch execution screen 1520 will be described. The batch execution screen 1520 includes a save destination specifying unit 1521, a function list display unit 1522, an "Execute" button 1523, and the like.

[0174] The save destination specifying unit 1521 is a functional unit that accepts the specification of a save destination for saving the files generated / updated by executing the function selected by the function list display unit 1522.

[0175] The function list display unit 1522 is a display unit that displays a list of functions included in the design support software in a selectable manner. For example, functions such as shape change (dimension change) and property change are also displayed in the list in a selectable manner.

[0176] The "Execute" button 1523 is a button for executing the function that is checked in the "Execute" checkbox in the function list display unit 1522, that is, the function selected to be executed. The above is the description of the configuration of the batch execution screen 1520.

[0177] Return to the description of FIG. 12. In step S1202, the client terminal 100 receives a designation of a file storage destination. For example, the client terminal 100 receives a designation of the URL of a folder on the external memory of the client terminal 100.

[0178] In step S1203, the client terminal 100 receives a selection of a function to be executed from among the functions in the function list display unit 1522. Specifically, by receiving an operation of checking the “Execute” checkbox corresponding to the “Function Name” in the function list display unit 1522, it is determined that the function has been selected as the function to be executed.

[0179] In step S1204, the client terminal 100 receives a press of the “Execute” button. That is, the client terminal 100 receives an instruction to batch-execute the selected functions.

[0180] In step S1205, the client terminal 100 executes the functions that were selected in step S1203 and have a check in the “Execute” checkbox.

[0181] For example, when the “Shape change (dimension change)” function is checked, the selection received in step S1003 of FIG. 10 is used, and a process is performed to change the dimension value of the dimension name temporarily saved in step S1007 to the dimension of the value (after change) stored in step S1007.

[0182] Also, for example, when the “Property change” function is checked, the selection received in step S1103 of FIG. 11 is used, and a process is performed to change the value of the property name temporarily saved in step S1107 to the value of the value (after change) stored in step S1107. The above is the description of FIG. 12.

[0183] As described above, according to the process of FIG. 12, on the batch execution screen 1520, it is possible to confirm and select which functions to execute from the list and then execute them. As a result, compared to executing each function one by one, the labor of performing the function execution operation is reduced.

[0184] Also, as shown in FIGS. 9 to 12, in the present invention, first, the screens of each function of the design assistance software (e.g., 1500 and 1510 in FIG. 15) are sequentially displayed, and after accepting the settings and operations related to each function on each screen, each function is not executed during the operation of each screen, and finally, it is possible to select the functions to be executed all at once.

[0185] Thereby, for example, it is possible to check at a glance what function is to be executed (whether the settings are changed / updated by that function).

[0186] Therefore, it is possible to check at a glance whether there is any omission in the execution of functions, that is, whether there is any omission in the update / change of settings, and perform the work of changing / updating the said settings.

[0187] Thereby, it becomes possible to provide a mechanism that can easily apply settings to the design data.

[0188] Next, referring to 1610 in FIG. 16, the recombination of component parts and the change of dimensions and properties after recombination will be described.

[0189] The design assistance software has a component part recombination function in addition to dimension change and property change.

[0190] The said component part recombination function is determined through the component part recombination screen 1610 in FIG. 16.

[0191] Specifically, the CPU 201 of the client terminal 100 displays the said component part recombination screen 1610, for example, immediately before step S901 in FIG. 9.

[0192] The component part recombination screen 1610 is composed of component parts 1612, configuration 1613, process 1614, file 1615, configuration 1616, "setting completed" button 1617, etc. displayed on the component part configuration display section 1611.

[0193] Component 1612 is a display unit that displays a list of file names of the components of the active file. Configuration 1613 is a display unit that displays the configuration of each component.

[0194] Process 1614 is a designation reception unit that receives a designation of what process to execute on Component 1612. For example, it is a pull-down type item, and "replacement", "reference switching", "addition", "deletion", etc. can be selected.

[0195] File 1615 is a designation reception unit that receives a designation of a file to be used when applying the process selected in Process 1614. The file can specify, for example, a CAD file stored in the client terminal 100 or the server 200.

[0196] Note that the file 1615 is enabled only when "replacement" or "addition" is selected in Process 1614. This is because, for example, when Process 1614 is "deletion", it is Component 1612 that is to be deleted, and there is no need to newly specify a file. In order not to cause unnecessary selection processing, it shall be disabled unless the target item is selected in Process 1614.

[0197] Configuration 1616 is enabled when Process 1614 is "replacement", "reference switching", or "addition". Literally, it is an operation unit for replacing, switching references, or adding Component 1612 and Configuration 1613 to Configuration 1616. By inputting a configuration name, it is possible to specify the replacement destination, the reference switching destination, and the configuration to be added. The "Setting Completed" button 1617 is a button for temporarily storing the process content (1614) and the process settings (1615 to 1616) of each component in the external memory of the client terminal 100 or the server 200 in order to execute Process 1614 according to the settings specified in each item of the component configuration display unit 1611.

[0198] When the "Settings Complete" button 1617 is pressed, the CPU 201 of the client terminal 100 shifts the process to step S901 in FIG. 9 and starts the process in FIG.

[0199] In addition, the model configuration display sections (1502, 1512) in each screen of FIG. 15 to be displayed hereafter will display a list of component configurations when process 1614 is applied to component 1612 so that dimensions and properties can be changed for the component after the process specified on component recombination screen 1610 has been applied.

[0200] For example, according to the component recombination screen 1610 in FIG. 16, TopAssy1 to Part2 displayed in the component 1612 <1> Part 1 of <1> are replaced with the files designated in 1615 and 1616 and displayed in the model configuration display areas 1502 and 1512.

[0201] Also, Part 1 <2> The model configuration display areas 1502 and 1512 display the configuration as if it had been reference-switched from ConfC to ConfB, and subsequent setting and execution of property and dimension changes are performed on ConfB.

[0202] Also, Part 2 <1> are treated as having been deleted and are not displayed in the model configuration display areas 1502 and 1512 on each screen to be displayed later.

[0203] On the other hand, Part 2 <1> The file (file specified in 1615) for which an additional item is specified in 1614 and which is displayed in the line immediately below is treated as a newly added file. In other words, when added, the specified part is displayed in the model configuration display areas 1502 and 1512 of each screen to be displayed later.

[0204] The process specified in process 1614 is actually executed after the "Execute" button 1523 is pressed on the batch execution screen 1520 and before the dimension and property change process is performed in step S1205. The dimension and property changes are then applied to and executed on the file after process 1614 has been executed.

[0205] As described above, according to the present invention, for the functions of adding, changing, and deleting the referenced file itself, an operation screen is displayed so that settings such as changes to dimensions and properties can be applied to the component parts list after the function has been executed, even though the settings are before the function is executed.

[0206] This makes it possible to easily specify settings to be applied to subsequent files even when files themselves are added, changed, or deleted.

[0207] Furthermore, even when a file itself is added, changed, or deleted, a mechanism can be provided that allows the specified settings to be easily applied to subsequent files.

[0208] As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a mechanism that allows settings to be easily applied to design data.

[0209] In the above-described embodiment, one dimension value (e.g., value 1403) is stored for one dimension name, but multiple dimension values may be stored in association with one dimension name. For example, there may be a set value that is set and stored by the user operating and specifying the CAD, and a measurement value (evaluation value) obtained by measuring the completed shape using the CAD's dimension measurement function. In this way, when multiple dimension values are stored in association with one dimension name, both dimension values may be displayed in 1304 of FIG. 13.

[0210] Then, in 1304, a check box may be placed and displayed next to each cell in which each dimension value is displayed, and the dimension value that receives the operation of checking the check box may be selected and stored in a temporary area so that the dimension value can be output to the dimension definition file.

[0211] In addition, which type of dimension value among multiple dimension values (e.g., set value and measured value) should be output to the dimension definition file may be stored in a setting file in advance, and the dimension value that is set to be prioritized in the setting file may be output to the dimension definition file in S706 of Figure 7.

[0212] Furthermore, in the embodiment of the present invention, the configuration has been described in which the CPU of the client terminal 100 executes the processing of each flowchart in Figures 6 to 12 using various functions (e.g., functions 301, 311, 321 to 328 in Figure 3) provided in the client terminal 100, but the functions may be provided in the server 200, and the CPU of the server 200 may be configured to execute the processing of each flowchart in Figures 6 to 12 using the functions provided in the server 200.

[0213] Also, some of the processes may be executed by the client terminal 100, and some may be executed by the server 200. For example, the processes of steps S701 to S705 in Fig. 7 may be executed by the client terminal 100, and the server 200, having received definition file information from the client terminal 100, may output and store the process of step S706 in its own external memory. In this case, the information required to execute each process and the information on the execution results are stored and held by the client terminal 100 and the server 200 transmitting and receiving information and synchronizing the information.

[0214] Although one embodiment has been described above, the present invention can be embodied as, for example, a system, an apparatus, a method, a program, a recording medium, etc. Specifically, the present invention may be applied to a system made up of multiple devices, or may be applied to an apparatus made up of a single device.

[0215] Furthermore, the program of the present invention is a program that enables a computer to execute the processing methods of the flowcharts shown in Figures 6 to 12, and the storage medium of the present invention stores a program that enables a computer to execute the processing methods of Figures 6 to 12. Note that the program of the present invention may be a program for each processing method of each device.

[0216] As described above, it goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by supplying a recording medium on which a program that realizes the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments is recorded to a system or device, and having the computer (or CPU or MPU) of that system or device read and execute the program stored on the recording medium.

[0217] In this case, the program itself read from the recording medium will realize the novel functions of the present invention, and the recording medium on which the program is recorded will constitute the present invention.

[0218] Examples of recording media for supplying the program include flexible disks, hard disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs, DVD-ROMs, magnetic tapes, non-volatile memory cards, ROMs, EEPROMs, and silicon disks.

[0219] Furthermore, it goes without saying that not only are the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments realized by the computer executing a program it has read, but also cases are included in which an OS (operating system) running on the computer performs some or all of the actual processing based on the instructions of the program, and the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments are realized through that processing.

[0220] Furthermore, it goes without saying that this also includes cases where a program read from a recording medium is written into a memory provided on a function expansion board inserted into a computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, and then a CPU or the like provided on the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs some or all of the actual processing based on the instructions of the program code, thereby realizing the functions of the above-mentioned embodiments.

[0221] Furthermore, the present invention may be applied to a system consisting of multiple devices, or to a device consisting of a single device. It goes without saying that the present invention can also be applied to a system or device that is achieved by supplying a program to the system or device. In this case, the system or device can enjoy the effects of the present invention by reading a recording medium that stores a program for achieving the present invention into the system or device.

[0222] Furthermore, by downloading and reading a program for achieving the present invention from a server, database, etc. on a network using a communication program, the system or device can enjoy the effects of the present invention. Note that the present invention also includes configurations that combine the above-mentioned embodiments and their modified examples. [Explanation of symbols]

[0223] 100 client terminals 101 Network 200 servers

Claims

1. An acquisition means for acquiring setting information from first design data; A change reception means for receiving a change to a component of second design data; A display control means for controlling to display in a comparable manner the setting information acquired from the first design data and the setting information corresponding to the component of the second design data after the change by the change reception means; A control means for controlling to apply the setting information acquired from the first design data to the setting information included in the second design data after the change by the change reception means; An information processing apparatus comprising the above.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the change reception means receives addition, deletion, replacement or reference switching of a component.

3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the replacement is a process of replacing a component set in the second design data with another component.

4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the reference switching is a process of switching a reference destination set in a component of the second design data to another reference destination.

5. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the display control means controls to display information regarding a component before the change of the second design data and information regarding the component after the change.

6. Comprising a reception means for receiving selection of setting information included in first design data, The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the setting information selected by the reception means is stored as definition information for application to other design data.

7. The display control means controls to display a component of the second design data that has received a change by the change reception means, The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the control means applies the setting information of the first design data to the setting information included in the selected component among the displayed components of the second design data.

8. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the component includes at least one of a part, an assembly file, and a sub-assembly file.

9. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the setting information is information regarding dimensions or information regarding properties.

10. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the design data is created using CAD.

11. An acquisition step in which an acquisition means of an information processing apparatus acquires setting information from first design data; A change reception step in which a change reception means of the information processing apparatus receives a change to a component of second design data; A display control step in which a display control means of the information processing apparatus controls to display so as to be comparable the setting information acquired from the first design data and the setting information corresponding to the component of the second design data after the change by the change reception step; A control step in which a control means of the information processing apparatus controls to apply the setting information acquired from the first design data to the setting information included in the second design data after the change by the change reception step; A control method for an information processing apparatus, characterized by comprising:

12. A program for causing at least one computer to function as each means of the information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

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