Electronic document system

Abstract

To automatically input appropriate form data to other input forms when a combination of form data is input to at least two specific input forms.SOLUTION: An electronic form system 100 includes client terminals T1 and T2, and a database device 1. When form data D is input to at least two specific input forms IF included in a form input screen ID, the database device 1 extracts, from combination data CD, one combination CC of candidate form data CND that match all of the form data D input to the specific input form IF. The client terminals T1 and T2 display, as the form data D, other candidate form data CND included in the combination CC extracted by the database device 1 on another input form IF.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic document system for managing document data used in various tasks. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, systems and services for efficiently performing paperless operations that were previously performed on paper have become widely used. For example, a system is known that displays form data in a predetermined format on a terminal and inputs information required for production management, equipment management, and the like in a plant, thereby performing various management operations on a paperless basis (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5579086 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Among the above-mentioned report systems, there is one in which an input form for entering report data is freely arranged to create a report input screen, and the input of report data using this report input screen and the registration of the report data in a database device are executed on a client terminal as a report application (report program).

[0005] In a report system, in order to streamline the entry of report data, when specific report data is entered into a specific input form on a report input screen, it is sometimes desirable to automatically display other report data that is used in combination with the specific report data in input forms other than the specific input form. In conventional report systems, only one combination of report data can be registered per report application. Therefore, if there are multiple combinations of specific report data and other report data, it is necessary to create one report application for each combination of report data. In other words, if there are multiple combinations of specific report data and other report data, multiple report applications are created for each combination.

[0006] Furthermore, if a user wishes to display a desired combination of report data on the report input screen, the user must select and execute a report application from multiple report applications that corresponds to the combination of report data that the user wishes to display on the report input screen, which increases the burden of managing the report applications.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide a report system in which a client terminal executes the input of report data using a report input screen and the registration of the report data in a database device as a report application, so that even if different combinations of report data are input into at least two specific input forms in one report application, the report data determined from the combination of report data can be appropriately determined, and the determined report data can be automatically entered into and displayed in other input forms on the report input screen. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] Below, several aspects will be described as means for solving the problems. These aspects can be arbitrarily combined as necessary. An electronic form system according to one aspect of the present invention is an electronic form system including a client terminal and a database device. The client terminal creates a form input screen by arranging three or more input forms and executes a form application that accepts input of form data for each input form on the form input screen. The database device has a memory unit that stores form data input at the client terminal. The memory unit of the database device stores multiple combinations of candidate form data. The candidate form data is form data that may be input into each input form on the form input screen.

[0009] In a client terminal of the above electronic document system, when document data is entered into at least two specific input forms included in the document input screen, the database device extracts from the memory unit one combination of candidate document data that matches all of the document data entered into the specific input forms.

[0010] The client terminal displays candidate form data other than the form data entered into the specific input form, among the candidate form data included in the extracted combination, as form data to be entered into input forms other than the specific input form.

[0011] In the above electronic form system, the database device stores a plurality of combinations of candidate form data that may be input into each input form of a form input screen having three or more input forms. Also, when form data is input into at least two specific input forms included in the form input screen, the database device extracts from the storage unit one combination of candidate form data that matches all of the form data input into the specific input forms.

[0012] Thereafter, the client terminal displays other candidate form data other than the form data input into the specific input form among the candidate form data included in the extracted combination as form data to be input into other input forms other than the specific input form. In other words, other form data determined by a specific combination of at least two form data is displayed in an input form other than the specific input form on the form input screen.

[0013] In this way, since the database device stores multiple combinations of candidate form data, even if different combinations of form data are entered into at least two specific input forms in one form application, the form data determined from the combination of form data can be appropriately determined, and the determined form data can be automatically entered into and displayed in other input forms on the form input screen.

[0014] In the above electronic form system, the client terminal may be capable of executing multiple form applications. In this case, the combination of candidate form data may be stored in the storage unit for each form application. This eliminates the need to manage the combination of candidate form data as master data, making it easier to manage the candidate form data.

[0015] In the above electronic form system, combinations of candidate form data may be generated by generating a table data file having columns corresponding to each input form on the form input screen and associating the candidate form data corresponding to each column of the table data file. In this way, by having the table data file for recording combinations of candidate form data have columns corresponding to the input forms arranged on the form input screen, it is possible to generate combinations of candidate form data appropriate for any form input screen.

[0016] In the electronic form system, when a table data file is generated, the item names of each input form may be associated with the corresponding columns, making it easy to identify which candidate form data should be associated with which column in the table data file.

[0017] In the above electronic form system, an identifier indicating that candidate form data to be compared is associated may be associated, which makes it easy to identify which candidate form data is the target of comparison to determine whether it matches the form data entered in a specific input form on the form input screen.

[0018] In the electronic form system, a column corresponding to a specific input form may be associated with a uniquely determined setting value as candidate form data, and other columns may be associated with initial values ​​as candidate form data. This allows the corresponding initial value to be displayed in other input forms when a specific setting value is entered in an input form.

[0019] In the above electronic form system, if a specific input form allows the selection of multiple form data, the multiple form data selectable in the input form may be associated as candidate form data with corresponding columns in the table data file. This allows candidate form data corresponding to the multiple form data selectable in the specific input form to be associated in advance with columns in the table data file when the table data file is generated. As a result, the task of associating some of the candidate form data with columns in the table data file can be omitted, thereby reducing the workload involved in associating candidate form data with the table data file.

[0020] In the above electronic document system, the candidate document data to be compared may be obtained from other combinations of candidate document data, thereby making it possible to extract candidate document data included in other combinations of candidate document data as its own candidate document data and incorporate it as its own combination data.

[0021] The candidate form data may be initial values, which allows predetermined initial values ​​to be displayed as form data in each input form on the form input screen. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] In a report system in which a client terminal executes the input of report data using a report input screen and the registration of the report data in a database device as a report application, even if there are multiple combinations of at least two specific report data entered into a specific input form and other report data determined by the specific report data, one report application can appropriately determine the other report data determined for the combination of at least two specific report data and automatically display it in the corresponding input form on the report input screen. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0023] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of an electronic document system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the functional block configuration of a database device and a client terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a form input screen of a form application. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an application creation screen. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing the generation operation of a form application. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the application creation screen after components are arranged. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a table data file. [Figure 8]FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a table data file in which candidate form data is associated in advance. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a table data file in which candidate form data is associated. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an operation of registering form data. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a start screen after a new form application is registered. [Figure 12] 3 is a diagram showing the processing executed by the client terminal and the database device in the input operation of form data, and the data flow between the client terminal and the database device. FIG. [Figure 13] A diagram (part 1) showing the process of inputting form data. [Figure 14] A diagram (part 2) showing the process of inputting form data. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0024] 1. First embodiment (1) Overview of the electronic document system The electronic document system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described below. The electronic document system 100 according to the first embodiment is a system that paperlessly implements "4M variation management" in, for example, a factory, plant, etc. in which the electronic document system 100 is installed. 4M variation management is a concept that includes (i) management related to raw materials (Material) used in the production of products, (ii) management related to workers (Man) of the factory, plant, etc., (iii) management related to the operation (Method) of the factory, plant, etc., and (iv) management related to equipment (Machine) of the factory, plant, etc.

[0025] Management of raw materials includes, for example, sending raw material shortage notifications to notify users that raw materials have run out, and managing raw material information. Management of workers includes, for example, managing worker information, providing various types of information in multiple languages, and calling personnel (trouble calls) when problems occur in factories, plants, etc. Management of operations includes, for example, managing product inspection results, managing work-related documents such as work procedures, and managing information about production lots. Management of equipment includes, for example, notifying users of problems that occur in equipment, and managing equipment inspections.

[0026] (2) Overall configuration of the electronic document system The overall configuration of an electronic document system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of the electronic document system. The electronic document system 100 mainly includes a database device 1, a first client terminal T1, and a second client terminal T2.

[0027] The database device 1 is a computer system equipped with a processor, a storage device (e.g., RAM, ROM, hard disk, SSD, etc.), and a network interface, and is a server that manages various applications, data, information, etc. related to the electronic document system 100.

[0028] For example, based on commands from the first client terminal T1 and the second client terminal T2, the database device 1 can analyze various data related to the factory, plant, etc. in which the electronic document system 100 is installed, using information contained in the document data D. The analysis results of the various data are sent to the first client terminal T1 and the second client terminal T2, and the contents can be viewed by workers and managers.

[0029] The first client terminal T1 is a mobile terminal such as a tablet terminal or a smartphone that can communicate with the database device 1 via a network (for example, a WAN, a LAN, the Internet, etc.). The first client terminal T1 is used by a worker who works in a factory, a plant, etc. where the electronic document system 100 is installed. The worker uses the first client terminal T1 to execute a document application AP, which will be described later, and inputs and registers document data D.

[0030] The second client terminal T2 is a terminal such as a personal computer, and is mainly used by the administrator of the database device 1. The administrator of the database device 1 uses the second client terminal T2 to access the database device 1 and create a form application AP. The creation of the form application AP will be explained in detail later.

[0031] The first client terminal T1 may have the same functions as the second client terminal T2. Specifically, the administrator of the database device 1 uses the first client terminal T1 to log in to the database device 1 as the administrator and create a form application AP.

[0032] The second client terminal T2 may have the same functions as the first client terminal T1. Specifically, the administrator of the database device 1 uses the second client terminal T2 to execute the form application AP and input and register the form data D.

[0033] (3) Functional block configuration of the database device The functional block configuration of the database device 1 will be described using Figure 2. Figure 2 is a diagram showing the functional block configuration of the database device and the client terminal. Some or all of the functional blocks of the database device 1 described below are realized by executing a program stored in a storage device of a computer system that constitutes the database device 1. The database device 1 has a storage unit 11, an application providing unit 13, and an application creating unit 15 as functional blocks.

[0034] The storage unit 11 stores various types of information managed by the database device 1. Specifically, the storage unit 11 stores a form application AP, combination data CD of candidate form data CND, form data D, and user information UI.

[0035] The form application AP is a computer program that can be executed on the first client terminal T1 and the second client terminal T2, and that allows the client terminals to input and register form data D. The form application AP is, for example, a web application that runs on the web browser of the client terminal.

[0036] A user performs 4M fluctuation management through a report application AP running on a client terminal. A report application AP is created for each purpose of data management and various notifications in 4M fluctuation management. For this reason, the database device 1 stores multiple report application APs in the storage unit 11. Specific examples of report application APs managed by the database device 1 will be described in detail later.

[0037] The combination data CD stores combinations of candidate form data D (called candidate form data CND) that may be entered into each input form of the form input screen ID of the form application AP. The combination data CD stores multiple combinations of candidate form data CND. When specific form data D is entered into a specific input form on the form input screen, the combination data CD is used to determine the form data D to be entered and displayed in the remaining input forms.

[0038] As will be described later, in the electronic form system 100 of this embodiment, when two or more specific form data D are input on the form input screen ID of the form application AP, other form data D determined by the two or more specific form data D are automatically input and displayed in the input form. In this way, when other form data D is determined by a combination of two or more specific form data, conventionally, master data defining multiple candidate form data CND for each of the specific form data D is required, and further, master data defining multiple combinations of the candidate form data CND is required. In other words, conventionally, it was necessary to manage multiple master data.

[0039] On the other hand, in the electronic form system 100 of this embodiment, dedicated combination data CD is created for each form application AP and stored in the storage unit 11. Also, as will be described later, other form data D determined by a combination of two or more specific form data D input using the form application AP is determined using the combination data CD generated for the form application AP. In this way, in this embodiment, there is no need to manage the candidate form data CND using multiple master data, making it easier to manage the candidate form data CND.

[0040] The report data D is various data related to 4M variation management. Specifically, the report data D is, for example, data related to equipment inspection work (e.g., measurement data such as pressure and temperature measured at the equipment) and data related to product production (e.g., data on parts, molds, etc. used in product production).

[0041] The user information UI is information for managing users who can log in to the database device 1 using the first client terminal T1 and the second client terminal T2. Specifically, the user information UI records a user ID and a password used when logging in to the database device 1. The user information UI also records a list of form applications AP that each user wishes to use.

[0042] In the user information UI, users (user IDs) are managed in user group units defined by specific attributes. These user groups are defined, for example, by the organization, department, team, etc. to which the worker (user) belongs. For example, each user group contains workers (users) who belong to the same organization, department, team, etc. The user information UI manages access rights, such as viewing form data D and data manipulation, for each of the above user groups.

[0043] The application providing unit 13 provides the form application AP requested for execution by the first client terminal T1 and the second client terminal T2 that have accessed the database device 1 to these client terminals. The application providing unit 13 also stores and registers in the storage unit 11 the form data D input by the client terminal that is executing the form application AP.

[0044] The application creation unit 15 creates a form application AP. Specifically, the application creation unit 15 causes the second client terminal T2 to execute the application creation program, thereby causing the display unit 23 of the second client terminal T2 to display the application creation screen GUI1 (FIG. 4).

[0045] The administrator of the electronic document system 100 operates the second client terminal T2 to create the outline of the document input screen ID on the application creation screen GUI1. The document input screen ID is displayed on the display unit 21 of the first client terminal T1 that executes the document application AP. The application creation unit 15 generates the document application AP based on the outline of the document input screen ID created using the application creation screen GUI1 and stores it in the storage unit 11.

[0046] The application creation unit 15 also generates a table data file TD having columns corresponding to each input form included in the outline based on the outline of the form input screen ID created on the application creation screen GUI 1. Furthermore, the application creation unit 15 generates combination data CD based on the table data file TD in which each column is associated with candidate form data CND, and stores the combination data CD in the storage unit 11.

[0047] The creation of the form application AP using the application creation screen GUI1, the generation of the table data file TD, and the generation of the combination data CD will be explained in detail later.

[0048] (4) Specific examples of report applications A specific example of a form application AP used in the electronic form system 100 will be described below with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a form input screen of a form application. Note that the form application AP described below is a part of the form application AP used in the electronic form system 100, and form application APs other than those described below can also be freely created and used in the electronic form system 100.

[0049] The form application AP executed by the electronic form system 100 is an application for inputting form data D related to parts required for product production. This form application AP displays a form input screen ID1 as shown in FIG. 3. Four input forms IF1 to IF4 are arranged on the form input screen ID1. Input form IF1 is a form for inputting the item number of the part as form data D. Input form IF2 is a form for inputting the mold number as form data D. Input form IF3 is a form for inputting the name of the part as form data D. Input form IF4 is a form for inputting the dimensions of the part as form data D.

[0050] At the bottom of the form input screen ID1, a button B1 is arranged for registering (storing in the storage unit 11 of the database device 1) the form data D input in the input forms IF1 to IF4.

[0051] On the form input screen ID1, input forms IF1 to IF4 are assigned item names ITM1 to ITM4, respectively.

[0052] (5) Report application creation program A form application creation program for creating a form application AP will be described below with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of an application creation screen. When executed by the second client terminal T2, the form application creation program causes the display unit 23 of the second client terminal T2 to display an application creation screen GUI1 as shown in Fig. 4. The application creation screen GUI1 is a user interface for creating the outline of a form input screen ID to be displayed by the form application AP. The form application AP is generated based on the outline of the form input screen ID created using the application creation screen GUI1.

[0053] The application creation screen GUI1 has a parts list display section PL, a parts placement area FI1, a save button B5, an export button B6, and a cancel button B7. The parts list display section PL displays a list of parts PA that can be placed in the parts placement area FI1. The parts PA placed in the parts placement area FI1 are converted into an input form IF in the form application AP.

[0054] The component placement area FI1 is an area for placing a component PA. Note that a header component PA' is placed in advance above the component placement area FI1 where no component PA is placed.

[0055] The parts PA displayed in the parts list display section PL can be moved to a desired position in the part placement area FI1 by, for example, a drag-and-drop operation, and placed at the desired position in the part placement area FI1. The placement order of the parts PA in the part placement area FI1 is reflected in the form input screen ID when the form application AP is generated. In other words, the placement order of the parts PA in the part placement area FI1 and the placement order of the corresponding input forms IF on the form input screen ID are the same.

[0056] A component PA placed in the component placement area FI1 has a component delete button B8, a component edit button B9, and a component duplicate button B10 placed on it. The component delete button B8 is a button for deleting the component PA on which the component delete button B8 is placed.

[0057] The edit part button B9 is a button for setting the part PA on which the edit part button B9 is placed. When the edit part button B9 is pressed, a setting screen (not shown) for setting the part PA (input form IF) is displayed, and various settings can be made on the setting screen. The item name ITM assigned to each input form IF can also be set on the setting screen. Only the edit part button B9 is placed on the header part PA'.

[0058] The component copy button B10 is a button for copying the component PA on which the component copy button B10 is placed.

[0059] The save button B5 is a button for generating a form application AP using the component placement area FI1 in which the desired component PA is placed as the skeleton of the form input screen ID, and saving the generated form application AP in the memory unit 11 of the database device 1.

[0060] The Export button B6 is a button for generating a table data file TD having columns corresponding to each input form (component PA) included in the skeleton (component placement area FI1) by using the component placement area FI1 in which the desired component PA is placed as the skeleton of the form input screen ID. The Cancel button B7 is a button for canceling the creation of the skeleton of the form input screen ID using the application creation screen GUI1.

[0061] In this way, on the application creation screen GUI1, any component PA selected from the component list display section PL can be placed at any position in the component placement area FI1 to create the outline of any form of form input screen ID. In other words, by using the application creation screen GUI1, any form of form application AP can be generated in which any input form IF is placed in any order on the form input screen ID.

[0062] (6) Operation of the electronic document system (6-1) Report application generation operation The operation of the electronic document system 100 will be described below. First, the operation of creating a document application AP will be described using Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of generating a document application. Below, the operation of displaying a document input screen ID1 as shown in Fig. 3 on the display unit of a client terminal and generating a document application AP for inputting and registering document data D using the document input screen ID1 will be described as an example.

[0063] First, in step S1, the form application creation program is executed in the second client terminal T2, whereby an application creation screen GUI1 as shown in FIG.

[0064] Next, in step S2, a component PA is placed in the component placement area FI1 of the application creation screen GUI1 to create the framework of the form application AP. For the form input screen ID1 shown in Fig. 3, a framework such as that shown in Fig. 6 is generated. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the application creation screen after components have been placed.

[0065] As shown in FIG. 6, five parts PA1 to PA5 are placed in the part placement area FI1. Part PA1 is a text field part titled "Item Number." Part PA2 is a text field part titled "Mold." Part PA3 is a text field part titled "Item Name." Part PA4 is a text field part titled "Dimensions." Part PA5 is a button part titled "Register." Header part PA' has the words "Parts Supply" written on it.

[0066] Thereafter, in step S3, a form application AP is generated based on the component placement area FI1 in which the components PA1 to PA5 are placed. The generation of the form application AP is started when the save button B5 on the application creation screen GUI1 is pressed.

[0067] Specifically, first, information about the component placement area FI1 in which the components PA1 to PA5 are placed is sent to the application creation unit 15 of the database device 1. Next, the application creation unit 15 converts the components PA1 to PA4 placed in the component placement area FI1 into input forms IF1 to IF4 that accept input of form data D, and converts the component PA5 into a button B1 that registers the form data D. The titles given to the components PA1 to PA4 are converted into item names ITM1 to ITM4 of the form input screen ID1, respectively. As a result, a form application AP is generated that displays the form input screen ID1 as shown in FIG. 3 and allows input and registration of form data D.

[0068] In the report application AP generated by executing the above steps S1 to S3, when report data D regarding the item number is entered into input form IF1 and report data D regarding the mold is entered into input form IF2, report data D regarding the item name and report data D regarding the dimensions, which are determined by the combination of the two report data D entered into input forms IF1 and IF2, respectively, are automatically entered into input forms IF3 and IF4.

[0069] To realize the above functions in the generated form application AP, dedicated combination data CD is generated for the generated form application AP. Specifically, the combination data CD is generated as follows.

[0070] First, in step S4, the application creation unit 15 creates a table data file TD based on the components PA1 to PA5 placed in the component placement area FI1. The creation of the table data file TD is started by pressing the export button B6 on the application creation screen GUI1.

[0071] The table data file TD is an electronic file that has columns corresponding to the components PA placed in the component placement area FI1 that generate a form for inputting the form data D, and cells CE arranged in the row direction in each column. Such a table data file TD can be, for example, a CSV (Comma Separated Value) file, a file used in various spreadsheet software, or a file in a format that manages multiple data by separating each data item, such as JSON.

[0072] From the component placement area FI1 in which components PA1 to PA5 as shown in Fig. 6 are placed, for example, a table data file TD as shown in Fig. 7 is generated. Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a table data file. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the table data file TD has four columns COL1 to COL4 corresponding to components PA1 to PA4 (i.e., input forms IF1 to IF4), and cells CE arranged side by side in the row direction in each of the columns COL1 to COL4.

[0073] 7, the cell CE in the second row of each of columns COL1 to COL4 is associated with the title of the corresponding part PA1 to PA4, i.e., the item names ITM1 to ITM4 of the corresponding input forms IF1 to IF4. This makes it easy to recognize which candidate form data CND should be associated with which cell CE in which column when associating (inputting) the candidate form data CND with a column in the table data file TD.

[0074] In addition, when an input form IF that allows selection of one piece of report data D from multiple pieces of report data D such as a list box is placed on the report input screen ID, and the report data D entered in the input form IF is used as data that automatically determines other piece of report data D, the multiple pieces of report data D that can be selected in this input form IF are associated with the corresponding columns of the table data file TD as candidate report data CND.

[0075] For example, if the input form IF1 of the form input screen ID1 shown in Fig. 3 is a list box that allows one form data D to be selected from multiple form data D, and four form data D, "A," "B," "C," and "D," are selectable in this input form IF1, then a table data file TD with 6 rows and 4 columns is generated as shown in Fig. 8, and "A," "B," "C," and "D" are associated with cells CE from the third to sixth rows of column COL1 as candidate form data CND that may be entered in input form IF1, respectively. Fig. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a table data file in which candidate form data is associated in advance.

[0076] As described above, in this embodiment, when generating a table data file TD, candidate form data CND corresponding to multiple form data D selectable in the input form IF can be associated in advance with the corresponding columns of the table data file TD. As a result, the work of associating some of the candidate form data CND with columns in the table data file TD can be omitted. In the above example, it is not necessary to input candidate form data CND into column COL1. As a result, the amount of work involved in associating candidate form data CND with the table data file TD can be reduced.

[0077] After the table data file TD is generated, in step S5, each of the multiple cells CE included in each column of the table data file TD is associated with candidate form data CND, which is a candidate for form data D that may be entered into the input form IF corresponding to that column. This association can be achieved by inputting the candidate form data CND into the cells CE included in the table data file TD using software that can edit the table data file TD, such as spreadsheet software or a text editor.

[0078] By associating candidate form data with each cell CE of the table data file TD, it is possible to create a table data file TD such as that shown in Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a table data file in which candidate form data is associated.

[0079] As shown in Figure 9, the symbol "*" (asterisk) is associated with each cell CE in the first row of columns COL1 and COL2 of the table data file TD. This symbol is an identifier indicating that candidate form data CND is associated with the candidate form data D, which is to be compared with the form data D entered in a specific input form IF to see if it matches.

[0080] The meaning of the above identifiers will be specifically explained below using the example of the table data file TD shown in Figure 9. In Figure 9, the above identifiers are associated with columns COL1 and COL2. This means that it is determined which candidate form data CND associated with column COL1 matches the form data D entered in input form IF1, and it is also determined which candidate form data CND associated with column COL2 matches the form data D entered in input form IF2. On the other hand, it means that the candidate form data CND associated with columns COL3 and COL4, which do not have identifiers, are not compared to determine whether they match the form data D entered in the form input screen ID. In other words, the candidate form data CND associated with columns COL3 and COL4, which do not have identifiers, become candidates for the form data D to be automatically entered into the other input forms IF3 and IF4, respectively.

[0081] More specifically, consider the case where form data D with "001-0002" is input into input form IF1 and form data D with "K0001-01" is input into input form IF2. In this case, the candidate form data CND with "001-0002" and the candidate form data CND with "K0001-01" are associated with cells CE in the fifth row of columns COL1 and COL2 in table data file TD. As a result, form data D in input form IF3 is determined as candidate form data CND with "Parts0001," which is associated with cell CE in the fifth row of column COL3 in table data file TD. Similarly, form data D in input form IF4 is determined as candidate form data CND with "21," which is associated with cell CE in the fifth row of column COL4 in table data file TD.

[0082] In this way, the combination of multiple candidate form data CND associated with the same row in the table data file TD becomes the combination of form data D input into the input forms IF1 to IF4. Therefore, the combination of multiple candidate form data CND associated with the same row in the table data file TD will be called a "combination CC." As shown in FIG. 10, the table data file TD has multiple combinations CC. In other words, multiple combinations CC are stored in the combination data CD.

[0083] In the table data file TD shown in Figure 9, the candidate form data CND associated with columns COL1 and COL2 corresponding to input forms IF1 and IF2 is a uniquely determined combination of setting values. On the other hand, the candidate form data CND associated with other columns COL3 and COL4 is an initial value determined by the combination of candidate form data CND associated with columns COL1 and COL2. As a result, when a specific setting value is entered as form data D into input forms IF1 and IF2, the corresponding initial value is automatically entered as form data D into the other input forms IF3 and IF4 and displayed.

[0084] After the candidate form data CND is associated with each column of the table data file TD as described above, in step S6, combination data CD is generated based on the table data file TD in which the candidate form data CND is associated with each column.

[0085] Specifically, when a command to generate the combination data CD (import command) is given on the application creation screen GUI1, a table data file TD associated with the candidate form data CND is sent to the database device 1. The application creation unit 15 of the database device 1 that receives the table data file TD converts the table data file TD into a data format that can be managed by the database device 1, and generates the combination data CD.

[0086] In this way, by generating a table data file TD in which combination data CD has columns corresponding to each input form IF included in the form input screen ID and by generating candidate form data CND corresponding to each column of the table data file TD in association with each other, it is possible to generate appropriate combination data CD for any form input screen ID. This is because the table data file TD is generated based on the arrangement of components PA in the component placement area FI1 of the application creation screen GUI1, and therefore no matter how the components PA are arranged in the component placement area FI1, that is, no matter how the input form IFs are arranged in the form input screen ID, the generated table data file TD will have columns in accordance with the arrangement of the input form IFs in the form input screen ID.

[0087] For example, for a report application AP that displays a report input screen ID including four input forms IF1 to IF4 as shown in Figure 3, a table data file TD having four columns corresponding to each input form IF1 to IF4 as shown in Figures 7 to 9 is generated.

[0088] (6-2) Report data registration operation Next, the operation of inputting and registering form data D using a form application AP in the electronic form system 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 10. Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing the operation of registering form data. Below, the operation of making the form application AP generated by executing steps S1 to S6 above available to a specific user, and inputting and registering form data D by that user using the available form application AP will be described. Also, below, it is assumed that form data D is input and registered using a form application AP that displays a form input screen ID as shown in Fig. 3.

[0089] First, in step S11, a user of the electronic document system 100 logs in to the database device 1 using the first client terminal T1 or the second client terminal T2.

[0090] After logging in to the database device 1, the user registers the form application AP that the user wants to use as a form application AP that the user can execute in step S12. As a result, for example, a start screen GUI2 shown in Fig. 11 is displayed. Fig. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the start screen.

[0091] After registering the form application AP to be used, in step S13, the form application AP for inputting the form data D is executed on the client terminal used by the user. Specifically, when the user performs an operation on the first icon ICO1 on the start screen GUI2 shown in Fig. 11 (for example, clicking or pressing the first icon ICO1), the client terminal transmits an execution request for the form application AP corresponding to the first icon ICO1 to the database device 1.

[0092] The application providing unit 13 of the database device 1 that receives the execution request provides the report application AP corresponding to the first icon ICO1, i.e., the report application AP for entering report data D using the report input screen ID1 as shown in Figure 3, to the client terminal that sent the execution request.

[0093] The client terminal that receives the form application AP executes the form application AP, which causes a form input screen ID1 such as that shown in FIG.

[0094] After executing the form application AP, the user inputs form data D into each of the input forms IF1 to IF4 of the form input screen ID1 displayed on the display unit of the client terminal in step S14. In this embodiment, when form data D is input into two specific input forms IF1 and IF2 of the form input screen ID1, the form data D to be input and displayed in the other input forms IF3 and IF4 is automatically determined based on the combination of these two form data D. Specifically, in step S14, processing is performed in accordance with the process shown in FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the processing performed by the client terminal and the database device in the input operation of form data, and the data flow between the client terminal and the database device.

[0095] In step S141, when the user enters report data D into two specific input forms IF1 and IF2 on the report input screen ID1, in step S142, the two entered report data D are sent from the client terminal to the database device 1.

[0096] When the two report data D are received by the database device 1, in step S143, the application providing unit 13 extracts a combination CC from the combination data CD stored in the memory unit 11, which includes two candidate report data CND that match the two received report data D.

[0097] For example, if the combination data CD has the same data structure as the table data file TD shown in Figure 9, and form data D with "001-0001" is entered into input form IF1 and form data D with "K0001-01" is entered into input form IF2, a row having a cell CE in which candidate form data CND matching "001-0001" is associated with column COL1 and candidate form data CND matching "K0001-01" is associated with column COL2 is extracted as combination CC. In the table data file TD of Figure 9, combination CC consisting of the four cells CE in the third row is extracted.

[0098] After extracting the combination CC, in step S144, the application providing unit 13 determines the candidate report data CND included in the extracted combination CC that has not been compared to determine whether it matches specific input forms IF1 and IF2 as the report data D to be input into input forms IF3 and IF4 other than the specific input forms IF1 and IF2.

[0099] In the above example, the combination CC in the third row of the table data file TD is identified, so the candidate form data CND for "Part 0001" associated with cell CE in the third row of column COL3 is determined as the form data D to be entered into input form IF3. Also, the candidate form data CND for "11" associated with cell CE in the third row of column COL4 is determined as the form data D to be entered into input form IF4.

[0100] After determining the report data D to be input into the other input forms IF3 and IF4, in step S145, the application providing unit 13 sends the determined report data D to the client terminal along with information on which input form the report data D should be input into.

[0101] In step S146, the client terminal that has received the above-mentioned form data D inputs and displays the received form data D in input forms IF3 and IF4 other than the specific input forms IF1 and IF2.

[0102] By executing the above steps S141 to S146 as the input operation of the form data D, for example, when a user inputs the form data D "001-0001" into input form IF1 of the form input screen ID1 and inputs the form data D "K0001-01" into input form IF2 as shown in Fig. 13, the form data D "Part 0001" is automatically input into input form IF3 of the form input screen ID1, and the form data D "11" is automatically input into input form IF4 as shown in Fig. 14. Figs. 13 and 14 are diagrams that schematically show the input operation of the form data.

[0103] Also, for example, if a user inputs form data D "001-0002" into input form IF1 of form input screen ID1 and inputs form data D "K0001-02" into input form IF2, combination CC in the fourth row of combination data CD is extracted. Candidate form data CND with "Part 0002" associated with column COL3 of the extracted combination CC is extracted as form data D to be input into input form IF3, and candidate form data CND with "22" associated with column COL4 of the combination CC is extracted as form data D to be input into input form IF4.

[0104] As a result, when a user inputs the report data D "001-0002" into input form IF1 of the report input screen ID1 and inputs the report data D "K0001-02" into input form IF2, the report data D "Part 0002" is automatically input into input form IF3 of the report input screen ID1, and the report data D "22" is automatically input into input form IF4.

[0105] As described above, the database device 1 stores multiple combinations CC of candidate form data CND in the combination data CD. As a result, even if different combinations of form data D are input into specific input forms IF1 and IF2, as described above, other form data D determined from the different combinations can be appropriately determined. As a result, even if different combinations of form data D are input into specific input forms IF1 and IF2 in a single form application AP, appropriate form data D can be automatically entered and displayed in other input forms on the form input screen ID1. The user then measures the dimensions of the manufactured part 0001 using the dimension "11" displayed in input form IF4 as a reference value, overwrites the input form IF4 with the actual measurement result, for example, 11.5, and presses the register button B1 to store the inspection result of part 0001 in the database device.

[0106] Returning to the flowchart of Fig. 10, after the form data D is input into each of the input forms IF1 to IF4 of the form input screen ID1 as described above, in step S15, the user presses button B1 on the form input screen ID1, whereby the form data D input into each of the input forms IF1 to IF4 is registered in the database device 1. Specifically, when button B1 is pressed, the form data D input into each of the input forms IF1 to IF4 is transmitted to the database device 1. The database device 1 stores the received form data D in the storage unit 11, whereby the form data D is registered.

[0107] (7) Features of the embodiment The above embodiment can also be explained as follows. An electronic document system (e.g., electronic document system 100) includes client terminals (e.g., a first client terminal T1 and a second client terminal T2) and a database device (e.g., a database device 1). The client terminal creates a document input screen (e.g., a document input screen ID1) by arranging three or more input forms (e.g., input forms IF1 to IF4), and executes a document application (e.g., a document application AP) that accepts input of document data (e.g., document data D) for each input form on the document input screen.

[0108] The database device has a storage unit (e.g., storage unit 11) that stores form data input at a client terminal. The storage unit of the database device stores a plurality of combinations (e.g., combination CC) of candidate form data (e.g., candidate form data CND). The candidate form data is form data that may be input into each input form on the form input screen.

[0109] In a client terminal of the above electronic document system, when document data is entered into at least two specific input forms (e.g., input forms IF1 and IF2) included in the document input screen, the database device extracts from the memory unit one combination of candidate document data that matches all of the document data entered into the specific input forms.

[0110] The client terminal displays candidate form data other than the form data entered into the specific input form among the candidate form data included in the extracted combination as form data to be entered into other input forms (e.g., input forms IF3, IF4) other than the specific input form.

[0111] In the above electronic form system, the database device stores a plurality of combinations of candidate form data that may be input into each input form of a form input screen having three or more input forms. Also, when form data is input into at least two specific input forms included in the form input screen, the database device extracts from the storage unit one combination of candidate form data that matches all of the form data input into the specific input forms.

[0112] Thereafter, the client terminal displays other candidate form data other than the form data input into the specific input form among the candidate form data included in the extracted combination as form data to be input into other input forms other than the specific input form. In other words, other form data determined by a specific combination of at least two form data is displayed in an input form other than the specific input form on the form input screen.

[0113] In this way, since the database device stores multiple combinations of candidate form data, even if different combinations of form data are entered into at least two specific input forms in one form application, the form data determined from the combination of form data can be appropriately determined, and the determined form data can be automatically entered into and displayed in other input forms on the form input screen.

[0114] 2. Other Embodiments Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. In particular, the multiple embodiments and modifications described in this specification can be arbitrarily combined as necessary. (A) The processing order and / or processing contents of each step included in the flowchart described in the first embodiment above can be changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the generation operation of the form application AP, the combination data CD may be generated first, and then the form application AP may be generated. In other words, steps S4 to S6 in FIG. 6 may be executed first, and then step S3 may be executed.

[0115] (B) In the combination data CD, when specific form data D is input into a specific input form IF, an identifier for changing another input form from a displayed state to a hidden state or for changing another input form from a hidden state to a displayed state may be associated with a column corresponding to the other input form as candidate form data CND. For example, by associating the character "FALSE" as an identifier with a column corresponding to the other input form whose display state is to be changed, when specific form data D is input into a specific input form IF, the display state of the other input form (from displayed to hidden, or from hidden to displayed) can be changed.

[0116] (C) The candidate form data CND to be compared with the form data D entered in a specific input form to determine whether it matches may be obtained from other combination data CD than the combination data CD to which the candidate form data CND is associated. This allows the candidate form data CND registered in other combination data CD to be extracted as the candidate form data CND of the candidate form data CND and imported as the combination data CD of the candidate form data CND of the candidate form data CND.

[0117] (D) The number of input form IFs included in the form input screen ID can be any number. In addition, the number of specific form data D (specific input form IFs) for determining other form data D can also be any number.

[0118] (E) Symbols other than the "*" symbol (asterisk), characters (strings), etc. can be used as identifiers indicating that candidate report data CND to be compared with report data D entered in a specific input form IF is associated with the candidate report data CND.

[0119] (F) The form application AP is not limited to a Web application provided by the database device 1, but may be an application that can be executed independently on a client terminal. [Industrial Applicability]

[0120] The present invention can be widely applied to electronic document systems that manage document data. [Explanation of symbols]

[0121] 100 Electronic document system 1 Database device 11 Storage section 13 Application Provider 15 Application Creation Department T1 First client terminal 21 Display section T2 Second client terminal 23 Display section AP Report Application ID, ID1 report input screen IF, IF1~IF4 input form ITM, ITM1~ITM4 Item name D. Report data CD combination data CC Combinations CND candidate form data TD table data file

Claims

1. a client terminal that executes a form application that creates a form input screen by arranging three or more input forms and accepts input of form data for each input form on the form input screen; a database device having a storage unit that stores the form data input at the client terminal, the storage unit stores a plurality of combinations of candidate form data that may be input into each of the input forms; When the form data is input into at least two specific input forms included in the form input screen in the client terminal, the database device extracts from the storage unit one combination of the candidate form data that matches all of the form data entered into the specific input form; the client terminal displays, among the candidate form data included in the extracted combination, candidate form data other than the form data entered into the specific input form as form data to be entered into input forms other than the specific input form; the client terminal is capable of executing a plurality of the form applications; The plurality of combinations are stored in the storage unit for each of the form applications. Electronic document system.

2. 2. The electronic document system of claim 1, wherein the plurality of combinations are generated by generating a table data file having columns corresponding to each of the input forms and associating the candidate document data corresponding to each column of the table data file.

3. 3. The electronic document system according to claim 2, wherein when the table data file is generated, the item names of each input form are associated with the corresponding columns.

4. 4. The electronic form system according to claim 2, wherein an identifier indicating that the candidate form data to be compared is associated with a column corresponding to the specific input form is associated with the column.

5. An electronic document system as described in any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein a uniquely determined setting value is associated as the candidate document data with a column corresponding to the specific input form, and an initial value is associated as the candidate document data with other columns.

6. An electronic document system as described in any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein when the specific input form is a form that allows multiple document data to be selected, the multiple document data are associated with corresponding columns of the table data file as the candidate document data.

7. 7. The electronic document system according to claim 1, wherein the candidate document data to be compared is acquired from another combination of the candidate document data.

8. 8. The electronic document system according to claim 1, wherein the candidate document data is an initial value.

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