Tool system, external system, identification method and program

Abstract

To make it possible to acquire result information more reliably by an external system.SOLUTION: A tool system 1 comprises a tool 2, and an external system (external device 4). The tool 2 has a first communication part 25. The first communication part 25 transmits result information including work numbers to the external system depending on progress of a work. The external system has a second communication part 41. The second communication part 41 receives the result information transmitted from the tool 2. The external system causes a storage part (second storage part 45) to store the result information received by the second communication part 41. At least one of the tool 2 and the external system has a specification part 461. The specification part 461 specifies result information which is not received by the second communication part 41 on the basis of progress information that indicates progress of the work by the tool 2 and the result information stored by the storage part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a tool system, an external system, an identification method, and a program, and more particularly to a tool system including a tool that performs wireless communication, an external system capable of communicating with the tool, an identification method performed by the tool system, and a program for executing the identification method. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a power tool control system including a power tool and a center device capable of wireless communication. The power tool of the power tool control system transmits a history of screw tightening operations to the center device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-334670 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a power tool control system (tool system) such as that disclosed in Patent Document 1, if the wireless communication environment between the power tool (tool) and the center device (external system) is not good, there is a possibility that a problem will arise, for example, in which the center device is unable to receive work history (result information).

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above reasons, and aims to provide a tool system, an external system, an identification method, and a program that allow an external system to more reliably obtain result information even when using wireless communication, which is less stable than wired communication. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A tool system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a tool and an external system. The tool has a first communication unit. The first communication unit transmits result information including a work number to the external system according to the progress of the work. The external system has a second communication unit. The second communication unit receives the result information transmitted from the tool. The external system stores the result information received by the second communication unit in a memory unit. At least one of the tool and the external system has an identification unit. The identification unit identifies result information that has not been received by the second communication unit based on progress information indicating the progress of the work performed by the tool and the result information stored in the memory unit.

[0007] An external system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a communication unit, a storage unit, and an identification unit. The communication unit receives result information from the tool, the result information indicating a result of work performed by the tool and including a work number. The storage unit stores the result information received by the communication unit. The identification unit identifies the result information that has not yet been received by the communication unit, based on progress information indicating a progress status of the work performed by the tool and the result information stored in the storage unit.

[0008] An identification method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a method used in a tool system including a tool and an external system. The tool transmits result information including a job number to the external system according to the progress of the job. The external system receives the result information transmitted from the tool and stores the result information in a storage unit. The identification method includes a step of identifying the result information that has not yet been received by the external system based on progress information indicating the progress of the job performed by the tool and the result information stored in the storage unit.

[0009] A program according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the identification method. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the tool system, external system, identification method, and program relating to the above aspects of the present disclosure, the external system can more reliably obtain result information even when using wireless communication, which is less stable than wired communication. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a tool system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the tool system. [Figure 3] 3A and 3B are external perspective views of the tool in the tool system as viewed from the front and rear sides, respectively. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the tool system. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the tool system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the tool system according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. In the embodiments described below, common elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions of the common elements may be omitted. The following embodiment is merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. Various modifications to the embodiment may be made depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. The drawings described in this disclosure are schematic, and the ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the components in each drawing do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0013] (Embodiment 1) (1) Overview First, an overview of a tool system 1 according to a first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0014] 1, a tool system 1 according to the first embodiment includes a tool 2 and an external system 3. The tool 2 and the external system 3 communicate with each other wirelessly.

[0015] The tool 2 is a portable power tool such as an impact wrench, etc. As shown in FIG.

[0016] The tightening unit 24 performs a tightening operation by rotationally driving a tool such as a socket 242 (see FIG. 3) to tighten a fastening part such as a bolt.

[0017] The first communication unit 25 includes a communication interface for wireless communication with the external system 3 (external device 4). The first communication unit 25 transmits result information including the work number to the external system 3 according to the progress of the work.

[0018] The "job number" referred to in this disclosure is a number corresponding to each tightening operation performed by the tightening unit 24. For example, if the tightening unit 24 tightens three fastening components (performs three tightening operations), the job number of the first tightening operation is "1," the job number of the second tightening operation is "2," and the job number of the third tightening operation is "3."

[0019] Furthermore, the term "result information" in this disclosure refers to information indicating the results of work performed by the tool 2. The "result information" includes information indicating the work number and information indicating the tightening torque in the tightening operation.

[0020] The external system 3 is a system that manages work using the tool 2. The external system 3 of the first embodiment manages work using the tool 2 by transmitting a tightening instruction to the tool 2 and receiving result information from the tool 2.

[0021] The "tightening instruction" in this disclosure includes operation number information indicating the number of fastening parts to be fastened by the tool 2 (the number of fastening operations) and information indicating a target torque value for the fastening operation. Note that the "tightening instruction" may also include position information indicating the positions of the fastening parts to be fastened by the tool 2, procedure information specifying the order in which the operations are to be performed, etc.

[0022] As shown in FIG. 1, an external system 3 according to the first embodiment includes an external device 4 and a higher-level device 5 such as a server.

[0023] As shown in FIG. 2, the external device 4 includes a second communication unit 41, a second storage unit 45, and an identification unit 461.

[0024] The second communication unit 41 includes a communication interface for wireless communication with the tool 2. The second communication unit 41 receives the result information transmitted from the tool 2.

[0025] The second storage unit 45 stores the result information received by the second communication unit 41.

[0026] The identifying unit 461 identifies result information that has not yet been received by the second communication unit 41 based on progress information indicating the progress of work by the tool 2 and result information stored in the second storage unit 45.

[0027] The "progress information" in the present disclosure is information indicating how far the work performed by the tool 2 has progressed. The progress information in the first embodiment is information indicating the job number corresponding to the latest tightening operation performed by the tool 2. For example, if the tool 2 has performed three tightening operations, the progress information is information indicating the latest job number, "3."

[0028] According to the tool system 1 of the first embodiment, it is possible to identify result information that is not stored in the second storage unit 45 of the external device 4 (external system 3), i.e., result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41. By identifying the unreceived result information by the second communication unit 41, the external system 3 can request the unreceived result information from the tool 2, thereby reducing the amount of missing result information. In other words, according to the tool system 1 of the first embodiment, it is possible to reduce the amount of unreceived result information by the external system 3, so that even when wireless communication, which is less stable than wired communication, is used, the external system 3 can more reliably acquire result information such as tightening data.

[0029] (2) Details Hereinafter, a detailed configuration of the tool system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0030] (2.1) Tool system configuration A tool system 1 according to the first embodiment is used, for example, in an assembly line where a user assembles a workpiece. As shown in Fig. 1, the tool system 1 includes a tool 2 and an external system 3. The tool system 1 may include a plurality of tools 2. As described above, the tool 2 and the external system 3 communicate wirelessly.

[0031] (2.2) Tool configuration 2, the tool 2 of the first embodiment includes a tightening unit 24, a first communication unit 25, a first storage unit 26, a control unit 27, a display unit 211, and an operation unit 231. In the first embodiment, the battery pack 201 (see FIG. 3A) is included in the components of the tool 2, but it is not essential that the battery pack 201 be included in the components of the tool 2, and the battery pack 201 may not be included in the components of the tool 2. For example, the battery pack 201 may be separate from the tool 2 (tool main body) and configured to be detachable from the tool 2 (tool main body).

[0032] 3A and 3B, the tool 2 further includes a body 20. The body 20 of the tool 2 includes a trunk portion 21, a grip portion 22, and an attachment portion .

[0033] Body section 21 is formed in a tubular (cylindrical) shape. Grip section 22 protrudes in one direction (downward in FIG. 3A ) from a part of the circumferential surface of body section 21. Mounting section 23 is provided so that battery pack 201 can be removably mounted thereon. In other words, body section 21 and mounting section 23 are connected by grip section 22.

[0034] At least a part of a fastening part 24 (see FIG. 2) is housed in the body part 21. An output shaft 241 (described later) of the fastening part 24 protrudes from one end face of the body part 21 in the axial direction.

[0035] The grip portion 22 is a portion that the user grips when performing work. The grip portion 22 is provided with a trigger switch 221. The trigger switch 221 is a switch for controlling the on / off operation of the tightening portion 24. The trigger switch 221 has an initial position and an on position, and the tightening portion 24 operates when the user pushes or pulls the trigger switch 221 to the on position. In addition, the trigger switch 221 can adjust the rotation speed of the tightening portion 24 according to the amount of pulling (amount of operation).

[0036] The mounting portion 23 is formed in a flat rectangular parallelepiped shape. A battery pack 201 is removably mounted on one surface of the mounting portion 23 opposite to the grip portion 22.

[0037] The battery pack 201 is configured with, for example, a lithium ion battery, etc. The battery pack 201 supplies power to the fastening unit 24, the first communication unit 25, the first storage unit 26, the control unit 27, etc.

[0038] The mounting unit 23 is also provided with an operation unit 231. The operation unit 231 can be used to perform various settings and check the status of the tool 2. That is, the user can, for example, check the remaining capacity of the battery pack 201 by operating the operation unit 231.

[0039] The display unit 211 is configured with, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode). The display unit 211 is provided at the end (i.e., the rear end) of the trunk part 21 of the body 20 opposite the output shaft 241 so that the user can easily see the display unit 211 while working (see FIG. 3B).

[0040] The fastening unit 24 of the first embodiment includes a motor, a reduction mechanism, a drive shaft, an impact mechanism, an output shaft 241, and a socket 242. The fastening unit 24 is configured to operate with power supplied to the motor from the battery pack 201. The fastening unit 24 rotates and drives the tip tool (socket 242) with power from the motor to fasten the fastening part.

[0041] The reduction mechanism transmits the rotational force of the motor's rotating shaft to the drive shaft. The reduction mechanism is, for example, a planetary gear mechanism, and converts the rotational speed and torque of the motor's rotating shaft into the rotational speed and torque required for the fastening operation. The output shaft 241 outputs the rotation of the drive shaft and transmits it to the socket 242. The output shaft 241 rotates around a rotation axis Ax1 along its protruding direction. In other words, the fastening unit 24 drives the output shaft 241 to rotate it around the rotation axis Ax1. In other words, when the fastening unit 24 operates, torque acts on the output shaft 241, causing the output shaft 241 to rotate.

[0042] A cylindrical socket 242 for rotating a fastening part (for example, a bolt or a nut) is detachably attached to the output shaft 241. The socket 242 rotates around the output shaft 241 together with the output shaft 241. The size of the socket 242 attached to the output shaft 241 is appropriately selected by the user according to the size of the fastening part. With this configuration, when the tightening unit 24 operates, the output shaft 241 rotates and the socket 242 rotates together with the output shaft 241. At this time, if the socket 242 is fitted with the fastening part, the fastening part rotates together with the socket 242, and the operation of tightening the fastening part (tightening operation) is realized. Therefore, the tool 2 can perform the operation of tightening the fastening part by the operation of the tightening unit 24.

[0043] Furthermore, a socket anvil can be attached to the output shaft 241 instead of the socket 242. The socket anvil is also detachably attached to the output shaft 241. In this case, a bit (for example, a driver bit or a drill bit) can be attached via the socket anvil.

[0044] The impact mechanism is driven by the power of the motor. The impact mechanism includes, for example, a hammer rotatably supported by a drive shaft, and an anvil (striking part) provided at the rear end of the output shaft 241. The hammer strikes the anvil in response to the rotation of the drive shaft.

[0045] The impact mechanism applies an impact to the output shaft 241 in the rotational direction when the tightening torque (work value) exceeds a predetermined level. This enables the tool 2 to apply a larger tightening torque to the fastened part. Note that it is not essential that the socket 242 and the impact mechanism are included as components of the tightening unit 24, and the components of the tightening unit 24 do not necessarily have to include the socket 242 and the impact mechanism.

[0046] The first communication unit 25 includes a communication interface for wireless communication with the external system 3 (external device 4). The first communication unit 25 communicates with the external system 3 using a wireless communication method that complies with standards such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), ZigBee (registered trademark), or low-power radio that does not require a license (specified low-power radio).

[0047] The first communication unit 25 receives tightening instructions from the external device 4. Furthermore, the first communication unit 25 transmits result information to the external device 4 of the external system 3 according to the progress of the work, based on the control of the control unit 27. More specifically, the first communication unit 25 transmits result information corresponding to the tightening operation to the external device 4 every time the tightening unit 24 performs a tightening operation.

[0048] When the state of wireless communication with the external system 3 (external device 4) is restored from a poor communication state, the first communication unit 25 of the first embodiment transmits a reconnection notification and progress information to the external system 3. The reconnection notification is a notification for informing the external system 3 that reconnection (recovery) has been achieved when the state of wireless communication between the first communication unit 25 and the external system 3 is restored from a poor communication state.

[0049] Furthermore, the first communication unit 25 of the first embodiment transmits the result information identified by the identification unit 461 to the external device 4 of the external system 3. More specifically, the first communication unit 25 transmits result information corresponding to the result information request to the external system 3 based on the result information request transmitted from the external system 3. By the first communication unit 25 transmitting to the external system 3 result information that has not yet been received by the second communication unit 41 of the external system 3, the result information corresponding to the work performed by the tool 2 (tightening unit 24) can be stored in the external system 3.

[0050] The first storage unit 26 includes, for example, a semiconductor memory such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), or an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory). Note that the first storage unit 26 is not limited to a semiconductor memory and may include a hard disk drive or the like.

[0051] The first storage unit 26 stores result information of the tightening operation performed by the tightening unit 24.

[0052] The control unit 27 is mainly composed of, for example, a computer system having one or more processors and one or more memories. In the tool 2, the one or more processors execute a program recorded in the memory, thereby realizing the functions of the control unit 27. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory, provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or provided by being recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card.

[0053] The control unit 27 controls the tightening unit 24, the first communication unit 25, the first memory unit 26, and the display unit 211 individually by outputting control signals to each of the tightening unit 24, the first communication unit 25, the first memory unit 26, and the display unit 211.

[0054] The control unit 27 controls the tightening unit 24 so that the tightening torque due to the tightening operation becomes the target torque value specified in the tightening instruction received by the first communication unit 25. Here, the control unit 27 has a torque estimation function that estimates the magnitude of the tightening torque. As an example in this embodiment, the control unit 27 estimates the magnitude of the tightening torque based on the rotation speed of the tightening unit 24 (motor) and the like until the estimated value of the tightening torque reaches the seating determination level. Once the estimated value of the tightening torque reaches the seating determination level, the control unit 27 estimates the magnitude of the tightening torque based on the number of impacts of the impact mechanism. Once the number of impacts of the impact mechanism reaches a threshold number based on the target torque value, the control unit 27 determines that the tightening torque has reached the target torque value and stops the tightening unit 24 (motor). This allows the tool 2 to tighten a fastening part with a tightening torque that corresponds to the target torque value.

[0055] In the first embodiment, each time the tightening unit 24 performs a tightening operation, the control unit 27 stores result information of the tightening operation in the first storage unit 26. Furthermore, the control unit 27 controls the first communication unit 25 to transmit the result information to the external system 3 each time the tightening unit 24 performs a tightening operation.

[0056] The control unit 27 controls the first communication unit 25 to send a reconnection notification and progress information to the external system 3 when the wireless communication state between the first communication unit 25 and the external system 3 (external device 4) is restored from a poor communication state.

[0057] Furthermore, when the first communication unit 25 receives a result information request transmitted from the external system 3, the control unit 27 controls the first communication unit 25 to transmit result information corresponding to the result information request to the external system 3. The "result information request" is a request from the external system 3 to the tool 2, and is a request to have the tool 2 transmit specific result information.

[0058] (2.3) External System Configuration As shown in FIG. 1, the external system 3 of the first embodiment includes an external device 4 and a higher-level device 5.

[0059] (2.4) Configuration of the upper device The higher-level device 5 is configured by, for example, a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), a PC (Personal Computer), or a server. The higher-level device 5 has a function of communicating with the external device 4. The communication method between the higher-level device 5 and the external device 4 in the first embodiment complies with the standard of a wired LAN (Local Area Network) such as Ethernet (registered trademark). The higher-level device 5 and the external device 4 may be configured to communicate wirelessly.

[0060] The higher-level device 5 transmits tightening instructions to the external device 4 based on, for example, an operation by an assembly line manager or a preset setting. The higher-level device 5 also has a function of collectively managing data transmitted from the external device 4. Specifically, the higher-level device 5 manages the history of tightening operations performed by the tool 2 by storing result information transmitted from the external device 4 for each tightening operation.

[0061] (2.5) External Device Configuration As shown in FIG. 2, the external device 4 of embodiment 1 includes a second communication unit 41 (communication unit), a third communication unit 42, a display unit 43, an operation unit 44, a second memory unit 45 (memory unit), and a control unit 46.

[0062] The second communication unit 41 includes a communication interface that performs wireless communication with the tool 2 (first communication unit 25). As described above, the second communication unit 41 communicates with the tool 2 using a wireless communication system.

[0063] The second communication unit 41 transmits the tightening instruction received by the third communication unit 42 from the higher-level device 5 to the tool 2. The second communication unit 41 also receives result information transmitted from the tool 2.

[0064] Furthermore, the second communication unit 41 of the first embodiment receives progress information transmitted from the tool 2 (first communication unit 25) when the state of wireless communication with the tool 2 (first communication unit 25) is restored from a poor communication state.

[0065] The third communication unit 42 includes a communication interface that performs wired communication with the higher-level device 5. As described above, the third communication unit 42 receives the tightening instruction from the higher-level device 5.

[0066] Furthermore, the third communication unit 42 transmits the result information and the like received by the second communication unit 41 to the higher-level device 5. The timing at which the third communication unit 42 transmits data to the higher-level device 5 is arbitrary. For example, the third communication unit 42 may transmit data to the higher-level device 5 periodically, or may transmit data to the higher-level device 5 when all work is completed. Alternatively, the third communication unit 42 may transmit data to the higher-level device 5 when the higher-level device 5 requests it to transmit data.

[0067] The display unit 43 is configured with, for example, LEDs. The operation unit 44 is configured with, for example, a plurality of push button switches. If the external device 4 is equipped with a touch panel display, the touch panel display may serve as both the display unit 43 and the operation unit 44.

[0068] The second storage unit 45 includes, for example, a semiconductor memory such as a ROM, a RAM, or an EEPROM. Note that the second storage unit 45 is not limited to a semiconductor memory, and may include a hard disk drive or the like.

[0069] The second storage unit 45 stores the tightening instruction received by the third communication unit 42 from the higher-level device 5 and the result information received by the second communication unit 41 from the tool 2. The second storage unit 45 also stores tool registration information such as the model number and identification information of the tool 2 managed by the external device 4 (external system 3). The second storage unit 45 also stores tool setting information such as the setting values ​​of tightening parameters for the tightening operation by the tool 2.

[0070] The control unit 46 is mainly composed of, for example, a computer system having one or more processors and one or more memories. In the external device 4, the one or more processors execute a program recorded in the memory, thereby realizing the functions of the control unit 46. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory, may be provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or may be provided by being recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card.

[0071] The control unit 46 individually controls the second communication unit 41, the third communication unit 42, the display unit 43, and the second memory unit 45 by outputting control signals to each of the second communication unit 41, the third communication unit 42, the display unit 43, and the second memory unit 45.

[0072] The control unit 46 according to the first embodiment includes a specifying unit 461, a request unit 462, a communication detecting unit 463, and a determining unit 464.

[0073] The communication detection unit 463 detects a change in the state of wireless communication between the tool 2 (first communication unit 25) and the second communication unit 41. More specifically, when the second communication unit 41 receives a reconnection notification from the tool 2, the communication detection unit 463 detects recovery from the poor communication state.

[0074] The identification unit 461 identifies result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41 based on the progress information transmitted from the first communication unit 25 of the tool 2 to the second communication unit 41 and the result information stored in the second memory unit 45.

[0075] For example, if the progress information indicates job number "3," the identifying unit 461 determines whether result information for job number "1," result information for job number "2," and result information for job number "3" are stored in the second storage unit 45. If result information for job number "1," result information for job number "2," and result information for job number "3" are stored in the second storage unit 45, the identifying unit 461 determines that there is no result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41. In other words, if all result information for the job number indicated by the progress information and below is stored in the second storage unit 45, the identifying unit 461 determines that there is no result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41. In further other words, if all result information for the job number indicated by the progress information and below is stored in the second storage unit 45, the identifying unit 461 does not identify result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41.

[0076] On the other hand, for example, if only the result information for job number "1" is stored in the second storage unit 45, the identification unit 461 will identify the result information for job number "2" and the result information for job number "3" as result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41. In other words, if at least one of the result information items equal to or less than the job number indicated by the progress information is not stored in the second storage unit 45, the identification unit 461 will identify the result information for the missing job number as result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41.

[0077] According to the tool system 1 of embodiment 1, since the external system 3 (external device 4) has the specific unit 461, the tool 2 does not need to have the specific unit 461, and the functions of the tool 2 can be increased to prevent the tool 2 from becoming larger.

[0078] The identifying unit 461 of the first embodiment identifies the result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41 when the communication detection unit 463 detects recovery from a poor communication state.

[0079] According to the tool system 1 of the first embodiment, the external system 3 can request, for example, the tool 2, result information that the second communication unit 41 was unable to receive during a poor communication state. Therefore, the external system 3 can always store nearly the latest result information in the second storage unit 45.

[0080] The request unit 462 requests the result information identified by the identification unit 461 from the tool 2. More specifically, the request unit 462 controls the second communication unit 41 to transmit the result information request to the tool 2.

[0081] According to the tool system 1 of embodiment 1, the second communication unit 41 on the external system 3 side identifies unreceived result information and requests it from the tool 2, so that the result information corresponding to the work performed by the tool 2 can be more reliably stored in the second memory unit 45.

[0082] The determination unit 464 determines whether the series of tasks has been completed based on the result information stored in the second storage unit 45 and information on the predetermined series of tasks. In the first embodiment, the information on the predetermined series of tasks is a tightening instruction received by the third communication unit 42 from the higher-level device 5.

[0083] For example, if the tightening instruction is information instructing three tightening operations, the determination unit 464 determines whether the result information for operation number "1", the result information for operation number "2", and the result information for operation number "3" are stored in the second storage unit 45. If the result information for operation number "1", the result information for operation number "2", and the result information for operation number "3" are stored in the second storage unit 45, the determination unit 464 determines that the predetermined series of operations has been completed. In other words, if the result information for the number of tightening operations instructed by the tightening instruction is stored in the second storage unit 45, the determination unit 464 determines that the predetermined series of operations has been completed. Note that the result information stored in the second storage unit 45 includes result information transmitted from the tool 2 in response to a request from the request unit 462 to the tool 2.

[0084] On the other hand, for example, if only the result information for operation number "1" is stored in the second storage unit 45, the determination unit 464 determines that the predetermined series of operations has not been completed. In other words, if the result information for the number of tightening operations specified by the tightening instruction is not stored in the second storage unit 45, the determination unit 464 determines that the predetermined series of operations has not been completed.

[0085] According to the tool system 1 of the first embodiment, the external system 3 can determine whether or not a series of operations has been completed based on the result information stored in the second storage unit 45. Therefore, for example, when the external system 3 determines that a series of operations has been completed, it can transmit the next tightening instruction to the tool 2.

[0086] (3) Tool system operation Next, the operation of the tool system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0087] First, the tool 2 and the external device 4 (external system 3) are connected via wireless communication (S1). Then, the external device 4 transmits a tightening instruction to the tool 2 (S2). Here, a case will be illustrated in which the tightening instruction transmitted from the external device 4 to the tool 2 is an instruction for the number of tightenings to be "3". Although omitted in FIG. 4, for example, a tightening instruction is transmitted from the higher-level device 5 to the external device 4, and the external device 4 transmits the tightening instruction to the tool 2.

[0088] The tightening unit 24 of the tool 2 that has received the tightening instruction performs the tightening operation (first time) at the target torque value based on the tightening instruction (S3). Then, the first communication unit 25 of the tool 2 transmits the result information of the job number "1" to the external device 4 (S4). The external device 4 receives the result information of the job number "1" and stores the result information in the second storage unit 45.

[0089] Here, we will show an example of a case where wireless communication between the tool 2 and the external device 4 is disconnected after the external device 4 receives result information for work number "1" (a case where poor communication occurs between the tool 2 and the external device 4).

[0090] The tightening unit 24 of the tool 2 performs the tightening operation (second time) at the target torque value based on the tightening command (S5). Then, the first communication unit 25 of the tool 2 transmits the result information of the job number "2" to the external device 4 (S6). However, because communication between the tool 2 and the external device 4 is poor, the second communication unit 41 of the external device 4 cannot receive the result information of the job number "2".

[0091] Similarly, the tightening unit 24 of the tool 2 performs the tightening operation (third time) at the target torque value based on the tightening command (S7). Then, the first communication unit 25 of the tool 2 transmits the result information of the job number "3" to the external device 4 (S8). However, because communication between the tool 2 and the external device 4 is poor, the second communication unit 41 of the external device 4 cannot receive the result information of the job number "3".

[0092] Here, it is assumed that the wireless communication connection state between the tool 2 and the external device 4 is restored (S9). When the state of wireless communication with the external device 4 is restored from the poor communication state, the tool 2 transmits a reconnection notification and progress information (job number "3") to the external device 4 (S10). In the example of FIG. 4, the tool 2 transmits the reconnection notification and the progress information simultaneously, but the reconnection notification and the progress information may be transmitted separately.

[0093] The communication detection unit 463 of the external device 4 detects that the communication has been restored from the poor communication state based on the received reconnection notification (S11). Note that the communication detection unit 463 may also detect that the communication has been restored from the poor communication state based on the received progress information.

[0094] When the communication detection unit 463 detects recovery from the poor communication state, the identification unit 461 of the external device 4 identifies the result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41 based on the received progress information (identification process) (S12). In the example of Fig. 4, the identification unit 461 identifies the result information for task number "2" and the result information for task number "3".

[0095] The request unit 462 of the external device 4 requests the tool 2 to send the result information of the job number "2" and the result information of the job number "3" identified by the identification unit 461 (S13). The tool 2, which has received the result information request, transmits the result information of the job number "2" and the result information of the job number "3" to the external device 4 based on the result information request (S14).

[0096] 4, when the second communication unit 41 of the external device 4 receives the result information for job number "2" and the result information for job number "3" and the result information for job number "2" and the result information for job number "3" are stored in the second storage unit 45, the determination unit 464 determines that the series of jobs is completed. Then, for example, the external device 4 transmits the result information corresponding to the series of jobs (the result information stored in the second storage unit 45) to the higher-level device 5.

[0097] It should be noted that the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 4 is merely an example, and the order of the processes may be changed as appropriate, and processes may be added or deleted as appropriate.

[0098] (4) Variations Below, we will list some modified examples of embodiment 1. The modified examples explained below can be applied in appropriate combinations.

[0099] Functions equivalent to those of the tool system 1 according to the first embodiment may be embodied as an identification method, a (computer) program, a non-transitory recording medium having a program recorded thereon, or the like. The identification method according to one aspect is a method used in the tool system 1 including the tool 2 and the external system 3. The tool 2 transmits result information including a work number to the external system 3 according to the progress of the work. The external system 3 receives the result information transmitted from the tool 2 and stores the result information in the second storage unit 45. The identification method includes a step of identifying result information that has not yet been received by the external system 3 based on progress information indicating the progress of the work performed by the tool 2 and the result information stored in the second storage unit 45. The program according to one aspect is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the above-described identification method.

[0100] The tool system 1 or the execution entity of the specific method in the present disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system is primarily composed of a processor and memory as hardware. The processor executes a program stored in the memory of the computer system to realize the functions of the tool system 1 or the execution entity of the specific method in the present disclosure. The program may be pre-stored in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided in a non-transitory recording medium readable by the computer system, such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). The integrated circuits, such as ICs and LSIs, are referred to by different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSIs, very large-scale integrations (VLSIs), or ultra-large-scale integrations (ULSIs). Furthermore, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), which are programmed after the LSI is manufactured, or logic devices capable of reconfiguring the connections within the LSI or the circuit partitions within the LSI, can also be used as processors. The electronic circuits may be integrated into one chip or distributed across multiple chips. The chips may be integrated into one device or distributed across multiple devices. The computer system referred to here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller is also composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

[0101] Furthermore, it is not essential for the tool system 1 that multiple functions of the tool system 1 are concentrated in one housing, and the components of the tool system 1 may be distributed across multiple housings. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the tool system 1, for example, some of the functions of the external device 4, may be realized by the cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

[0102] Conversely, in the first embodiment, at least some of the functions of the tool system 1 that are distributed among multiple devices may be integrated into one housing. For example, some of the functions of the external system 3 that are distributed between the external device 4 and the upper device 5 may be integrated into one housing.

[0103] Although the first embodiment exemplifies the case where the external device 4 (external system 3) has the identification unit 461, the tool 2 may have the identification unit 461 instead of the external device 4. When the tool 2 has the identification unit 461, the external system 3 transmits information indicating the result information stored in the second storage unit 45 to the tool 2. When the tool 2 receives information indicating the result information stored in the second storage unit 45 from the external system 3, the tool 2 identifies the result information that is not stored in the second storage unit 45 (result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41). Then, the tool 2 transmits the identified result information to the external system 3.

[0104] In the first embodiment, the case where the work number is a number is exemplified, but the work number may be a letter such as an alphabet, hiragana, or katakana. For example, if the work number is an alphabet, "A" corresponds to the first tightening operation, "B" corresponds to the second tightening operation, and "C" corresponds to the third tightening operation.

[0105] The external system 3 does not need to include the higher-level device 5. When the external system 3 does not include the higher-level device 5, the external device 4 transmits a tightening instruction to the tool 2 when, for example, an administrator or the like performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 44 of the external device 4.

[0106] In the first embodiment, the tool system 1 is exemplified in such a way that the second communication unit 41 of the external system 3 can more reliably receive the result information transmitted from the tool 2. Here, the tool system 1 may be configured so that the second communication unit 41 of the external system 3 can more reliably receive the log information transmitted from the tool 2. The "log information" referred to in the present disclosure may include information such as history information of operations performed on the tool 2 and history information of abnormalities that have occurred in the tool 2. By including a serial number such as a log number in the log information, it is possible to more reliably receive the log information transmitted from the tool 2, like the result information exemplified in the first embodiment, by the second communication unit 41 of the external system 3.

[0107] In the first embodiment, the tool 2 is described as an impact wrench, but the tool 2 is not limited to an impact wrench and may be, for example, an impact driver, a drill driver, a nut runner, or an oil pulse wrench. Furthermore, the tool 2 is not limited to a configuration powered by the battery pack 201, but may be a configuration powered by an AC power source (commercial power source). Furthermore, the tool 2 is not limited to an electric tool, but may be a pneumatic tool having an air motor powered by compressed air supplied from an air compressor.

[0108] (Embodiment 2) The tool system 1 of embodiment 2 differs from the tool system 1 of embodiment 1 in that the identification unit 461 determines whether a predetermined series of tasks has been completed based on the continuation information included in the result information transmitted from the tool 2, and if it determines that the series of tasks has been completed, the second communication unit 41 identifies any unreceived result information.

[0109] The operation of the tool system 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 5. First, the tool 2 and the external device 4 (external system 3) are connected by wireless communication (S21). Then, the external device 4 transmits a tightening instruction to the tool 2 (S22). Here, a case will be illustrated in which the tightening instruction transmitted from the external device 4 to the tool 2 is an instruction for the number of tightenings to be "3". Although omitted in Fig. 5, for example, a tightening instruction is transmitted from the higher-level device 5 to the external device 4, and the external device 4 then transmits the tightening instruction to the tool 2.

[0110] The tightening unit 24 of the tool 2 that has received the tightening instruction performs the tightening operation (first time) at the target torque value based on the tightening instruction (S23). Then, the first communication unit 25 of the tool 2 transmits result information for job number "1" to the external device 4 (S24). Here, the result information transmitted by the tool 2 of the second embodiment includes continuation information. The "continuation information" is information indicating whether the series of jobs is still continuing. Because the series of jobs specified by the tightening instruction is the job of tightening three fastening parts, the result information for job number "1" includes continuation information indicating that the job will continue further. The external device 4 receives the result information for job number "1" and stores the result information in the second storage unit 45.

[0111] The identification unit 461 of the external device 4 performs a determination process to determine whether or not the series of tasks has been completed based on the continuation information included in the result information for task number "1" received by the second communication unit 41 (S25). Since the continuation information included in the result information for task number "1" indicates that the task will continue, the identification unit 461 determines that the series of tasks has not been completed.

[0112] The tightening unit 24 of the tool 2 performs the tightening operation (second time) at the target torque value based on the tightening command (S26). Then, the first communication unit 25 of the tool 2 transmits result information for job number "2" to the external device 4 (S27). The result information for job number "2" includes continuation information indicating that the job will continue. The example of Figure 5 illustrates a case where the second communication unit 41 of the external device 4 cannot receive the result information for job number "2" due to poor wireless communication conditions or other reasons.

[0113] Furthermore, the tightening unit 24 of the tool 2 performs the tightening operation (third time) at the target torque value based on the tightening command (S28). Then, the first communication unit 25 of the tool 2 transmits the result information of the job number "3" to the external device 4 (S29). The result information of the job number "3" includes continuation information indicating that the job will not be continued further, that is, continuation information indicating that the series of jobs has been completed.

[0114] The identification unit 461 of the external device 4 performs a determination process to determine whether or not the series of tasks has been completed based on the continuation information included in the result information for task number "3" received by the second communication unit 41 (S30). Since the continuation information included in the result information for task number "3" indicates that the task will not be continued further, the identification unit 461 determines that the series of tasks has been completed.

[0115] When the identifying unit 461 of the second embodiment determines that the series of tasks has been completed, it performs an identifying process to identify result information that has not yet been received by the second communication unit 41 (S31). Because the result information for task number "3" includes continuation information indicating that the series of tasks has been completed, the identifying unit 461 determines whether all result information with task number "3" or less is stored in the second storage unit 45. In the example of FIG. 5, the identifying unit 461 identifies the result information for task number "2" as result information that has not yet been received by the second communication unit 41.

[0116] The request unit 462 of the external device 4 requests the tool 2 for the result information of the work number "2" identified by the identification unit 461 (S32). The tool 2, which has received the result information request, transmits the result information of the work number "2" to the external device 4 based on the result information request (S33).

[0117] 5, when the second communication unit 41 of the external device 4 receives the result information for job number "2" and the result information for job number "2" is stored in the second storage unit 45, the determination unit 464 determines that the series of jobs is completed. Then, for example, the external device 4 transmits the result information corresponding to the series of jobs (the result information stored in the second storage unit 45) to the higher-level device 5.

[0118] According to the tool system 1 of the second embodiment, the external system 3 identifies the result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41 at the timing when a predetermined series of tasks is completed, and can therefore identify all the result information corresponding to the series of tasks that has not been received by the second communication unit 41. Therefore, the external system 3 can always store the most recent result information in the second storage unit 45.

[0119] It should be noted that the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 5 is merely an example, and the order of the processes may be changed as appropriate, and processes may be added or deleted as appropriate.

[0120] The second embodiment is merely one example of various embodiments of the present disclosure, and various modifications can be made to the second embodiment depending on the design and the like, as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0121] The determination unit 464 may determine whether a predetermined series of tasks has been completed based on the continuation information included in the result information transmitted from the tool 2, and if the determination unit 464 determines that the series of tasks has been completed, the identification unit 461 may perform an identification process.

[0122] In the tool system 1 of the second embodiment, the determination unit 464 is configured to determine whether a series of operations continues (whether it has been completed) using the continuation information, but this configuration is not limiting. The tool 2 may include continuation information (completion information) indicating that the series of operations has been completed only in the result information of the final tightening operation in the series of operations. The identification unit 461 of the external system 3 determines that the series of operations has not been completed if the result information does not include completion information. On the other hand, the identification unit 461 determines that the series of operations has been completed if the result information includes completion information.

[0123] The same function as that of the tool system 1 according to the second embodiment may be realized by a specific method, a (computer) program, a non-transitory recording medium on which a program is recorded, or the like.

[0124] The various configurations described in the second embodiment can be adopted in appropriate combination with the various configurations (including modified examples) described in the first embodiment.

[0125] (Embodiment 3) The tool system 1 of embodiment 3 differs from the tool system 1 of embodiment 1 and embodiment 2 in that when the second communication unit 41 transmits a work stop signal, the identification unit 461 identifies result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41.

[0126] The operation of the tool system 1 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. First, the tool 2 and the external device 4 (external system 3) are connected by wireless communication (S41). Then, the external device 4 transmits a tightening instruction to the tool 2 (S42). Here, a case will be illustrated in which the tightening instruction transmitted from the external device 4 to the tool 2 is an instruction for the number of tightenings to be "3". Although omitted in Fig. 6, for example, a tightening instruction is transmitted from the higher-level device 5 to the external device 4, and the external device 4 then transmits the tightening instruction to the tool 2.

[0127] The tightening unit 24 of the tool 2 that has received the tightening instruction performs the tightening operation (first time) at the target torque value based on the tightening instruction (S43). Then, the first communication unit 25 of the tool 2 transmits the result information of the job number "1" to the external device 4 (S44). The external device 4 receives the result information of the job number "1" and stores the result information in the second storage unit 45.

[0128] The tightening unit 24 of the tool 2 performs the tightening operation (second time) at the target torque value based on the tightening command (S45). Then, the first communication unit 25 of the tool 2 transmits the result information of the job number "2" to the external device 4 (S46). The example of Fig. 6 illustrates a case where the second communication unit 41 of the external device 4 cannot receive the result information of the job number "2" due to poor wireless communication conditions or the like.

[0129] Here, for example, the user performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 44 of the external device 4, whereby the external device 4 accepts the work stop instruction (S47). Note that the external device 4 may accept the work stop instruction by receiving the work stop instruction from the higher-level device 5.

[0130] When the external device 4 receives the work stop instruction, the second communication unit 41 transmits a work stop signal to the tool 2 (S48). The work stop signal is a signal that causes the tool 2 to stop a series of works. When the tool 2 receives the work stop signal, it transmits a work stop response to the external device 4 (S49). Here, the work stop response transmitted by the tool 2 includes progress information.

[0131] The identifying unit 461 of the third embodiment performs an identifying process (S50) to identify result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41, based on the progress information received from the tool 2 and the result information stored in the second storage unit 45. In the example of Fig. 6, the identifying unit 461 identifies the result information of operation number "2" as result information that has not been received by the second communication unit 41.

[0132] The request unit 462 of the external device 4 requests the tool 2 for the result information of the work number "2" identified by the identification unit 461 (S51). The tool 2, which has received the result information request, transmits the result information of the work number "2" to the external device 4 based on the result information request (S52).

[0133] According to the tool system 1 of the third embodiment, the second communication unit 41 identifies unreceived result information at the timing when the tool 2 stops work, and therefore, it is possible to identify all result information that the second communication unit 41 has not received from among the result information corresponding to work performed before the tool 2 stopped work. Therefore, the external system 3 can always store nearly latest result information in the second storage unit 45.

[0134] Although not shown in Fig. 6, for example, the user performs a predetermined operation on the operation unit 44 of the external device 4, which causes the external device 4 to accept a work resume instruction. When the external device 4 accepts the work resume instruction, the second communication unit 41 transmits a work resume signal to the tool 2. When the tool 2 receives the work resume signal, it resumes the series of work from the next fastening operation (the third operation in the example of Fig. 6) of the most recent work number at the time the work was stopped.

[0135] It should be noted that the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 6 is merely an example, and the order of the processes may be changed as appropriate, and processes may be added or deleted as appropriate.

[0136] The third embodiment is merely one example of various embodiments of the present disclosure, and various modifications can be made to the third embodiment depending on the design and the like as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved.

[0137] The tool 2 that has received the work stop signal may transmit the work stop response and the progress information to the external device 4 separately.

[0138] The same functions as those of the tool system 1 according to the third embodiment may be realized by a specific method, a (computer) program, a non-transitory recording medium on which a program is recorded, or the like.

[0139] The various configurations described in the third embodiment can be adopted in appropriate combination with the various configurations (including modified examples) described in the first or second embodiment.

[0140] (summary) As described above, the tool system (1) according to the first aspect includes the tool (2) and the external system (3). The tool (2) has a first communication unit (25). The first communication unit (25) transmits result information, including a work number, to the external system (3) according to the progress of the work. The external system (3) has a second communication unit (41). The second communication unit (41) receives the result information transmitted from the tool (2). The external system (3) stores the result information received by the second communication unit (41) in a memory unit (second memory unit 45). At least one of the tool (2) and the external system (3) has an identification unit (461). The identification unit (461) identifies result information that has not yet been received by the second communication unit (41) based on progress information indicating the progress of the work performed by the tool (2) and the result information stored in the memory unit.

[0141] According to this aspect, it is possible to identify result information that is not stored in the memory unit (second memory unit 45) of the external system (3), i.e., result information that has not been received by the second communication unit (41). By the second communication unit (41) identifying the unreceived result information, the external system (3) can request the unreceived result information from the tool (2), thereby reducing the amount of missing result information. In other words, according to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the amount of unreceived result information by the external system (3). Therefore, even when wireless communication, which is less stable than wired communication, is used, the external system (3) can more reliably acquire result information.

[0142] In the tool system (1) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the external system (3) has an identifying unit (461). The identifying unit (461) identifies result information that has not been received by the second communication unit (41) based on progress information transmitted from the first communication unit (25) to the second communication unit (41) and result information stored in the memory unit (second memory unit 45).

[0143] According to this aspect, since the external system (3) has the specific part (461), the tool (2) does not need to have the specific part (461), and the functionality of the tool (2) can be increased, thereby preventing the tool (2) from becoming larger.

[0144] In the tool system (1) according to the third aspect, in the second aspect, the external system (3) further includes a request unit (462). The request unit (462) requests the result information identified by the identification unit (461) from the tool (2).

[0145] According to this aspect, the second communication unit (41) on the external system (3) side identifies unreceived result information and requests it from the tool (2), so that the result information corresponding to the work performed by the tool (2) can be more reliably stored in the memory unit (second memory unit 45).

[0146] In the tool system (1) according to the fourth aspect, in the second or third aspect, the external system (3) further includes a communication detection unit (463). The communication detection unit (463) detects a change in the state of wireless communication with the tool (2). When the communication detection unit (463) detects recovery from a poor communication state, the identification unit (461) identifies result information that has not been received by the second communication unit (41).

[0147] According to this aspect, the external system 3 can request the result information that the second communication unit 41 was unable to receive during the poor communication state, for example, from the tool 2. Therefore, the external system 3 can always store the most recent result information in the storage unit (second storage unit 45).

[0148] In the tool system (1) according to the fifth aspect, in any of the second to fourth aspects, the identification unit (461) determines whether a predetermined series of tasks performed by the tool (2) has been completed, and if it determines that the series of tasks has been completed, the second communication unit (41) identifies any result information that has not yet been received.

[0149] According to this aspect, the external system (3) identifies the result information that has not been received by the second communication unit (41) at the timing when a predetermined series of tasks is completed by the tool (2), and therefore, can identify all the result information corresponding to the series of tasks that has not been received by the second communication unit (41). Therefore, the external system (3) can always store the most recent result information in the storage unit (second storage unit 45).

[0150] In the tool system (1) according to a sixth aspect, in any one of the second to fifth aspects, the second communication unit (41) can transmit a work stop signal to the tool (2). When the second communication unit (41) transmits the work stop signal, the identification unit (461) identifies result information that has not been received by the second communication unit (41).

[0151] According to this aspect, the second communication unit (41) identifies unreceived result information at the timing when the tool (2) stops work, and therefore, it is possible to identify all result information corresponding to work performed by the tool (2) up until the work was stopped that has not been received by the second communication unit (41). Therefore, the external system (3) can always store nearly latest result information in the storage unit (second storage unit 45).

[0152] In the tool system (1) according to a seventh aspect, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the external system (3) further includes a determination unit (464). The determination unit (464) determines whether a series of tasks has been completed based on the result information stored in the storage unit (second storage unit 45) and information on the predetermined series of tasks.

[0153] According to this aspect, the external system (3) can determine whether a series of tasks has been completed based on the result information stored in the storage unit (second storage unit 45). Therefore, for example, when the external system (3) determines that a series of tasks has been completed, it can transmit a next task instruction to the tool (2).

[0154] In the tool system (1) according to the eighth aspect, in any of the first to seventh aspects, the first communication unit (25) transmits the result information identified by the identification unit (461) to the external system (3).

[0155] According to this aspect, the tool (2) transmits to the external system (3) result information that has not yet been received by the second communication unit (41) of the external system (3), and the result information corresponding to the work performed by the tool (2) can be stored in the external system (3).

[0156] The configurations other than the first aspect are not essential for the tool system (1) and can be omitted as appropriate.

[0157] The external system (3) according to the ninth aspect includes a communication unit (second communication unit 41), a memory unit (second memory unit 45), and an identification unit (461). The communication unit receives result information from the tool (2) that indicates the result of work performed by the tool (2) and includes a work number. The memory unit stores the result information received by the communication unit. The identification unit (461) identifies result information that has not been received by the communication unit based on progress information that indicates the progress of the work performed by the tool (2) and the result information stored in the memory unit.

[0158] According to this aspect, it is possible to identify result information that is not stored in the memory unit (second memory unit 45) of the external system (3), i.e., result information that has not been received by the second communication unit (41). By identifying unreceived result information by the second communication unit (41), the external system (3) can request the unreceived result information from the tool (2), thereby reducing missing result information. In other words, according to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the amount of unreceived result information by the external system (3). Therefore, even when wireless communication, which is less stable than wired communication, is used, the external system (3) can more reliably acquire result information.

[0159] A tenth aspect of the identification method is a method used in a tool system (1) including a tool (2) and an external system (3). The tool (2) transmits result information including a work number to the external system (3) according to the progress of the work. The external system (3) receives the result information transmitted from the tool (2) and stores the result information in a memory unit (second memory unit 45). The identification method includes a step of identifying unreceived result information by the external system (3) based on progress information indicating the progress of the work performed by the tool (2) and the result information stored in the memory unit.

[0160] According to this aspect, it is possible to identify result information that is not stored in the memory unit (second memory unit 45) of the external system (3), i.e., result information that has not been received by the external system (3). By identifying result information that has not been received by the external system (3), the external system (3) can request the tool (2) for the result information that has not been received, thereby reducing the amount of missing result information. In other words, according to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the amount of result information that has not been received by the external system (3), so that the external system (3) can more reliably acquire result information even when using wireless communication, which is less stable than wired communication.

[0161] A program according to an eleventh aspect is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the identification method according to the tenth aspect.

[0162] According to this aspect, it is possible to identify result information that is not stored in the memory unit (second memory unit 45) of the external system (3), i.e., result information that has not been received by the external system (3). By identifying result information that has not been received by the external system (3), the external system (3) can request the tool (2) for the result information that has not been received, thereby reducing the amount of missing result information. In other words, according to this aspect, it is possible to reduce the amount of result information that has not been received by the external system (3), so that the external system (3) can more reliably acquire result information even when using wireless communication, which is less stable than wired communication. [Explanation of symbols]

[0163] 1 Tool System 2 tools 25 First Communications Department 3 External Systems 41 Second Communications Department 45 2nd memory section (memory section) 461 Specific part 462 Request part 463 Communication detection unit 464 Judgment section

Claims

1. a tool having a first communication unit that transmits result information including a work number to an external system according to the progress of the work; the external system includes a second communication unit that receives the result information transmitted from the tool and stores the result information received by the second communication unit in a storage unit; Equipped with At least one of the tool and the external system includes an identifying unit that identifies the result information that has not yet been received by the second communication unit based on progress information indicating a progress status of the work performed by the tool and the result information stored in the storage unit. Tool system.

2. the external system includes the identification unit, the identifying unit identifies the result information that has not been received by the second communication unit based on the progress information transmitted from the first communication unit to the second communication unit and the result information stored in the storage unit. The tool system of claim 1 .

3. The external system further includes a request unit that requests the result information identified by the identification unit from the tool. The tool system of claim 2 .

4. The external system further includes a communication detection unit that detects a change in a state of wireless communication with the tool, the identifying unit identifies the result information that has not been received by the second communication unit when the communication detection unit detects recovery from a poor communication state. The tool system of claim 2 .

5. the identifying unit determines whether a predetermined series of operations performed by a tool has been completed, and, when it is determined that the series of operations has been completed, identifies the result information that has not yet been received by the second communication unit. The tool system of claim 2 .

6. The second communication unit is capable of transmitting a work stop signal to the tool, the identifying unit, when the second communication unit transmits the work stop signal, identifies the result information that has not been received by the second communication unit. The tool system of claim 2 .

7. The external system further includes a determination unit that determines whether the series of tasks has been completed based on the result information stored in the storage unit and information on a predetermined series of tasks. The tool system of claim 1 .

8. the first communication unit transmits the result information identified by the identification unit to the external system; The tool system of claim 1 .

9. a communication unit that receives result information from the tool, the result information indicating a result of the work performed by the tool and including a work number; a storage unit that stores the result information received by the communication unit; an identification unit that identifies the result information that has not been received by the communication unit based on progress information indicating a progress status of the work performed by the tool and the result information stored in the storage unit; Equipped with External systems.

10. 1. An identification method used in a tool system including: a tool that transmits result information including a job number to an external system according to progress of a job; and the external system that receives the result information transmitted from the tool and stores the result information in a storage unit, a specifying step of specifying the result information that has not been received by the external system based on progress information indicating a progress status of the work by the tool and the result information stored in the storage unit; Specific method.

11. 11. The method of claim 10, wherein the method is performed by one or more processors. program.

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