Information processing device and information processing program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device for facilitating a user grasping the cause of a case in which the processing of an intermediate component cannot be started in comparison with a case in which a work flow is created for the purpose of management without the intermediate component created by combining multiple components being subjected to the management.SOLUTION: An information processing device 2 includes a CPU 20A. The CPU 20A causes display of a work flow representing the relation among processes relating to the production of a product including multiple components, and the respective progresses of the multiple components, identifies, when there is a component that has the process not started among the multiple components, the component that becomes the cause of the suspension of the start, and displays the component that becomes the cause or notifies a user of such a component.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a workflow creation support device that supports the creation of a workflow for performing printing work. This workflow creation support device includes a job information acquisition unit that acquires job information including information on multiple parameters that specify the content of the job. This workflow creation support device also includes a narrowing-down processing unit that narrows down a selection of templates to be used as selection candidates from multiple pre-registered templates using at least some of the information on the multiple parameters acquired by the job information acquisition unit. This workflow creation support device also includes a selection screen data creation unit that displays information on the templates narrowed down by the narrowing-down processing unit as selection candidates and creates selection screen data used to display a selection screen that accepts a selection operation that allows a user to select one template from the selection candidates. This workflow creation support device also includes a job definition file creation unit that creates a job definition file based on information on the one template selected by the selection operation and information on the multiple parameters. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-16315 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When using a workflow to manage the process of manufacturing printed products in response to a request, it is necessary to manage the process in accordance with various specifications, such as the printing form and manufacturing process of the printed product. Therefore, a workflow is created for each printed product and a process is managed accordingly. However, printed products come in a wide variety, with various specifications, such as the printing form and manufacturing process.

[0005] Furthermore, while intermediate parts are generated as work in progress during the manufacturing process of printed products, conventional workflows do not take into consideration the progress management of intermediate parts. As a result, if processing of intermediate parts for printed products cannot be started, the cause is unknown and appropriate measures cannot be taken.

[0006] The disclosed technology aims to provide an information processing device and an information processing program that make it easier to understand the cause of a situation where processing of an intermediate part cannot be started, compared to when a workflow is generated and managed without managing the intermediate part generated by combining multiple parts. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An information processing device according to a first aspect includes a processor, which displays a workflow showing the relationship between processes involved in manufacturing a product including a plurality of parts, and the progress status of each of the plurality of parts, and, if there is a part among the plurality of parts for which a process has not started, identifies the part that caused the process not to start, and controls the display or notification of the part that caused the process.

[0008] An information processing device according to a second aspect is the information processing device according to the first aspect, wherein the product is a printed product.

[0009] An information processing device according to a third aspect is the information processing device according to the first aspect, wherein the steps include a printing step and a processing step for a printed matter that is a product of the printing step.

[0010] An information processing device according to a fourth aspect is the information processing device according to the third aspect, wherein the processing step is a step of generating intermediate parts by processing a plurality of parts including printed matter.

[0011] An information processing device according to a fifth aspect is the information processing device according to the first aspect, wherein the workflow is editable.

[0012] An information processing device according to a sixth aspect is the information processing device according to the fourth aspect, wherein the processor displays the progress status of each of at least two parts that make up the intermediate part when processing of the intermediate part cannot be started.

[0013] An information processing device according to a seventh aspect is the information processing device according to the fourth aspect, wherein, when a part among the plurality of parts for which the process has not been started is an intermediate part, the processor identifies a part that constitutes the intermediate part as the part causing the problem.

[0014] An information processing device according to an eighth aspect is the information processing device according to the first aspect, wherein the processor performs control to display or notify the part that caused the problem as well as a message urging adjustment of the process.

[0015] An information processing program according to a ninth aspect causes a computer to execute a process that displays a workflow showing the relationship between processes related to the manufacture of a product that includes multiple parts, and the progress status of each of the multiple parts, and if there is a part among the multiple parts for which a process has not started, identifies the part that caused the process not to start, and controls the display or notification of the part that caused the process. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] The first to ninth aspects have the advantage that it is easier to understand the cause of a case where processing of an intermediate part cannot be started, compared to a case where a workflow is generated and managed without managing an intermediate part generated by combining multiple parts. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0017] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of a process for producing a printed product according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a printing network system according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of an electrical configuration of the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the information processing device according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of template information according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing flow of an information processing program according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of template information according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the editing process according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of workflow information for a printed product according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] 10A, 10B, and 10C are diagrams showing an example of a process editing screen according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a workflow information display screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating an example of a work status screen of a printing device according to an embodiment, and a work status screen of a processing device according to an embodiment; [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the workflow information display screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a product workflow display area on a workflow information display screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a reprint screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a product workflow display area according to the embodiment. [Figure 17]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a details screen according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating another example of a product workflow display area according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating an example of a work status screen and a work completion cancellation dialog box of a printing apparatus according to an embodiment. [Figure 20] 10A, 10B, and 10C are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for adding a reprocessing step according to an embodiment. [Figure 21] 10A, 10B, and 10C are diagrams illustrating another example of a method for adding a reprocessing step according to an embodiment. [Figure 22] 10A, 10B, and 10C are diagrams illustrating another example of a method for adding a reprocessing step according to an embodiment. [Figure 23] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating another example of a method for adding a reprocessing step according to an embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] An example of an embodiment for implementing the technology of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that components and processes that perform the same operations, actions, and functions are given the same reference numerals throughout the drawings, and duplicated descriptions may be omitted as appropriate. Each drawing is merely a schematic illustration to allow a sufficient understanding of the technology of the present disclosure. Therefore, the technology of the present disclosure is not limited to the illustrated examples. Furthermore, in this embodiment, descriptions of configurations that are not directly related to the present invention or well-known configurations may be omitted.

[0019] In this disclosure, the term "product" is a concept that includes printed matter, printed products, composites of multiple identical or different printed matter, and items in the shipping stage that include printed matter. "Parts" is a concept that includes some of the elements that make up a "product." "Intermediate parts" is a concept that includes items such as work-in-progress that are created by processing at least two "parts" before the "product" is manufactured, that is, between the time an order is received and the time the product is completed. "Processing" is a concept that includes not only processing that deforms or changes an item, but also processing that combines multiple items to create an assembly, and item processing that involves working on the item.

[0020] Furthermore, the term "process" is a concept that includes the work performed from the time an order is received until the product is completed. The term "process" includes the smallest unit of work performed from the time an order is received until the product is completed. The term "manufacturing process" is a concept that includes the process of manufacturing the parts included in a product. The term "work object" is a concept that includes information indicating the work performed during the manufacture of parts, such as plate making and printing. The term "intermediate object" is a concept that includes information on the work performed on parts and the results of that work as intermediate parts.

[0021] Incidentally, the printing business of printed products including printed matter mainly includes the processes of order receipt, manuscript creation, prepress (trial printing), printing (final printing), processing, and shipping.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic example of a process for manufacturing a printed product according to an embodiment.

[0023] The example shown in Figure 1 shows an example of a printed product in which a printed product is made up of the following components: a cover, a front cover, and a main text, and the cover and front cover components are formed by digital printing, and the main text components are formed by offset printing.

[0024] The order / production process is a process in which an order for the manufacture of a print product is received from a client and electronic data of the manuscript for printing is produced. Processing in the order / production process is carried out by, for example, a proofreading management system.

[0025] The prepress process is a general term for the processes that occur before a printed product is printed, and generally includes processes such as design, phototypesetting, composition, block copy creation, color separation, retouching, plate assembly, and plate making for submitted manuscripts. The prepress process may also be used to carry out test printing as needed to check the quality of the print results. Based on the results of the test printing, a decision is made as to whether or not the manuscript data needs to be revised (proofread), and proofreading is carried out if it does not meet the client's requirements. Processing in the prepress process is carried out, for example, by a prepress system.

[0026] If the results of the pre-press test printing meet the client's requirements, the printing process begins.

[0027] The printing process is a process of printing on paper or other printing media based on design data for printing. The printing process can include the process of creating printing plates based on the design data for printing. In the case of offset printing, printing is performed on paper or other printing media using printing plates created based on the design data for printing. In addition, when digital printing known as CTP (Computer To Plate) printing is performed using a digital printing device, the creation of printing plates is not necessary. Note that the concept of "printing device" includes printing presses, printers, image forming devices, image recording devices, etc. Processing in the printing process is performed, for example, by a printing system.

[0028] The converting process is a process in which various processes are performed on parts or products after printing. Here, the term "conversion" is a general term for various processes performed on printed materials, for example. Specific examples of conversion include cutting, folding, collating, binding, special processing, surface finishing, and bookbinding. In addition, not only one type of conversion can be performed, but multiple types can be combined. Through conversion processes, printed products are arranged into books, magazines, pamphlets, catalogs, and other product forms. The processing in the converting process is performed, for example, by a converting device.

[0029] The shipping process is a process of shipping a printed product including a plurality of manufactured parts to a client.

[0030] A workflow is used to efficiently operate and manage such a series of printing operations.

[0031] In this embodiment, when managing the production of a printed product from the request for production to completion using a workflow, a separate workflow is created for each of a wide variety of printed products, and process management is performed. However, for printed products that are manufactured using multiple parts, intermediate parts may be generated during the manufacturing process. In such cases, when managing the production of a printed product from the request for production to completion, it has been difficult to easily determine which parts are used to make up the intermediate parts.

[0032] Furthermore, the conventional workflow does not take into consideration the progress management of the formed intermediate parts. Therefore, if processing of the intermediate parts of the printed product cannot be started, the cause is unknown and appropriate measures cannot be taken.

[0033] Therefore, in this embodiment, multiple parts required to manufacture an ordered printed product are identified, and multiple processes required from order receipt to completion of the printed product are identified. For intermediate parts generated by processing at least two of these multiple parts, intermediate objects representing the intermediate parts are generated, and for each of the multiple parts, work objects representing the processes required to manufacture the individual parts are generated. Then, for each of the multiple parts, the work objects representing the processes required to manufacture each of the multiple parts are displayed in order of the multiple processes, and workflow information is created that associates the work objects between processes that are processed consecutively. This workflow information associates the intermediate objects representing the intermediate parts with the work objects for at least two parts used to generate the intermediate parts. In this embodiment, if processing of an intermediate part cannot be started in the created workflow information, control is performed to display the progress status of each of the at least two parts that make up the intermediate part.

[0034] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a printing network system 1 according to an embodiment for implementing the technology of the present disclosure.

[0035] 2, the printing network system 1 includes an information processing device 2, a management information system 3, a proofreading management system 4, a prepress system 5A, a prepress system 5B, a printing system 6A, a printing system 6B, a processing device 7A, and a processing device 7B. These information processing device 2, management information system 3, proofreading management system 4, a prepress system 5A, a prepress system 5B, a printing system 6A, a printing system 6B, a processing device 7A, and a processing device 7B are connected to a network NT and configured to be able to exchange information with each other. The network NT may be, for example, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), or the like.

[0036] The information processing device 2 is a computer system having a workflow creation support function that supports the creation of a workflow for performing printing work. As an example, the information processing device 2 may be a general-purpose computer such as a server computer or a personal computer (PC).

[0037] The Management Information System (hereinafter referred to as MIS) 3 is a computer system that manages printing-related management information, and performs production process management and inventory management for printed products. Management information can include various types of information, such as order information, quotation information, sales information, business plans, and inventory information. In this embodiment, we will explain as an example a case where MIS 3 transmits information in XML (Extensible Markup Language) format that is necessary when manufacturing printed products. Note that MIS 3 may also use information in JDF (Job Definition Format) and JMF (Job Messaging Format), etc.

[0038] The proofreading management system 4 is a computer system that receives orders for the manufacture of printed products from clients and processes the creation and proofreading of electronic data of manuscripts for printing. This proofreading management system 4 outputs data representing the manuscripts of printed products.

[0039] The prepress systems 5A and 5B are computer systems that perform test printing before printing a printed product to check the quality of the print results. One example of the prepress system 5A is a system that includes a digital printing device that prints without using printing plates. Another example of the prepress system 5B is a system that includes an offset printing device that prints using printing plates.

[0040] The printing systems 6A and 6B are computer systems that process printing on paper or other printing media based on printing design data. For example, the printing system 6A is a system that includes a digital printing device that prints without using printing plates. For example, the printing system 6B is a system that includes an offset printing device that prints using printing plates.

[0041] The processing devices 7A and 7B are devices that perform various processes on parts and products. One example of the processing device 7A is a cover attachment device that applies a cover to parts that make up a product after they have been formed. One example of the processing device 7B is a collating device that collates folded parts that have been offset printed.

[0042] It should be noted that the printing business of printed products is not limited to the above-mentioned systems and devices, but may include other systems and devices available in the printing business. For example, a printing business may include a printing plate management system known as a printing plate, which processes the process of a client of a printed product checking the print content and confirming, approving, and requesting that the printing proceed to the execution stage.

[0043] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the electrical configuration of the information processing device 2 according to this embodiment.

[0044] As shown in FIG. 3, the information processing device 2 according to this embodiment includes a control unit 20, a storage unit 22, a communication unit 24, a display unit 26, and an operation unit .

[0045] The control unit 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 20A, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 20B, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 20C, and an input / output interface (I / O) 20D, which are connected to each other via a bus 20E. Here, the CPU 20A is an example of a processor.

[0046] The I / O 20D is connected to various functional units including a storage unit 22, a communication unit 24, a display unit 26, and an operation unit 28. These functional units are capable of communicating with the CPU 20A via the I / O 20D.

[0047] The control unit 20 may be configured as a sub-control unit that controls part of the operation of the information processing device 2, or may be configured as part of a main control unit that controls the overall operation of the information processing device 2. For example, an integrated circuit such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration) or an IC (Integrated Circuit) chip set is used for some or all of the blocks of the control unit 20. A separate circuit may be used for each of the above blocks, or a circuit in which some or all of the blocks are integrated may be used. The above blocks may be provided integrally, or some of the blocks may be provided separately. Furthermore, part of each of the above blocks may be provided separately. The integration of the control unit 20 is not limited to an LSI, and a dedicated circuit or a general-purpose processor may also be used.

[0048] The storage unit 22 may be, for example, an auxiliary storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), or a flash memory. The storage unit 22 stores an information processing program 22A and data 22B for implementing the information processing according to this embodiment. The CPU 20A reads the information processing program 22A from the storage unit 22, loads it into the RAM 20B, and executes the processing. In this way, the information processing device 2 that executes the information processing program 22A operates as the information processing device of the present disclosure. Note that the information processing program 22A may be stored in the ROM 20C.

[0049] The information processing program 22A may be pre-installed in the information processing device 2, for example. The information processing program 22A may be realized by storing it in a non-volatile storage medium or distributing it via a network NT and installing it appropriately in the information processing device 2. Note that examples of non-volatile storage media include CD-ROMs (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), magneto-optical disks, HDDs, DVD-ROMs (Digital Versatile Disc Read Only Memory), flash memories, memory cards, etc.

[0050] The display unit 26 may be, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electroluminescence (EL) display. The display unit 26 may be integrally provided with a touch panel. The operation unit 28 is provided with operation input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse. The display unit 26 and the operation unit 28 receive various instructions from the user of the information processing device 2. The display unit 26 displays various information such as the results of processing executed in response to instructions received from the user and notifications regarding the processing.

[0051] The communication unit 24 is connected to a network NT such as the Internet, a LAN, or a WAN, and is capable of communicating with external devices via the network NT.

[0052] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the information processing device 2 according to this embodiment.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 4, the CPU 20A of the information processing device 2 includes functional units that function as an acquisition unit 200, an identification unit 202, a generation unit 204, a creation unit 206, and a display control unit 208, respectively.

[0054] The storage unit 22 according to the present embodiment also stores template information applicable to workflow information indicating the workflow of a printed product (hereinafter referred to as product workflow information). The workflow of a printed product may also be referred to as a product workflow. Template information is data representing the relationships between multiple processes in the manufacture of a printed product, with nodes representing information indicating the units of work performed in each process and the components processed or generated in each process. For example, templates can be set to represent the processing steps performed to manufacture the printed product, the components processed or generated in each process, and the relationships between each process or between each process and the components, depending on various conditions such as the type of printed product, the customer, and the finishing conditions of the printed product. For example, in some embodiments, multiple templates can be registered in advance for each anticipated printed product. An appropriate template can be selected from the registered templates according to the specifications of the ordered printed product, and the templates can be used to set the process for manufacturing the printed product. As a specific example, multiple templates can be created in advance and stored in the storage unit 22. A user can then select an appropriate template from the multiple templates stored in the storage unit 22 and use the set template. Using templates in this way makes it easier to set up the processes required to manufacture printed products each time an order is received, compared to designing from scratch the processes required to manufacture printed products, the parts processed in each process, and the relationship between the processed parts and the next process that integrates them.

[0055] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of template information according to this embodiment.

[0056] 5 shows a screen 100 as an example of template information displayed on the display unit 26. The display control unit 208 performs control to display a screen 110 on the display unit 26 using the template information.

[0057] Screen 100 includes display areas 101, 102, 103, and 104. Display area 101 displays the process for manufacturing a printed product. The process shown in Fig. 5 is an example of the work involved in manufacturing a printed product, from order receipt to shipping.

[0058] For example, "reception" refers to the work of receiving a request from a client to manufacture at least part of a printed product. "production" refers to the work of creating the manuscript for the printed product. "prepress" refers to the work of conducting a test print before the printed product is printed. "plate making" refers to the work of creating a printing plate. "printing" refers to the work of printing on print media. "receiving" refers to the work of receiving parts or products. "processing" refers to the processing work performed on printed materials. "inspection" refers to the work of inspecting parts or products. "part customization" refers to the general term for the work of performing special processing or treatment on parts. "product customization" refers to the general term for the work of performing special processing or treatment on products. "shipping" refers to the work of shipping printed products once production is complete.

[0059] The display area 102 displays the parts of a printed product. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the parts included in the printed product and the intermediate parts generated from the parts during the process of manufacturing the printed product are shown. For example, a "cover," a "body," and a "cover" are shown as examples of parts included in the printed product. In addition, a "book block" generated by combining a "cover" and a "body," and a "finished product" generated by combining a "book block" and a "cover" are shown as examples of intermediate parts. In addition, the printed matter at the stage when manufacturing is completed is shown as a "product name."

[0060] Each of the operations in the manufacturing process for producing a printed product is displayed in the display area 103. The information displayed in the display area 103 corresponds to the process displayed in the display area 101.

[0061] In the display area 104, each task performed when producing a printed product is displayed as a node (circle shape in FIG. 5). That is, task objects representing tasks in each step from "reception" to "shipping," which are displayed as processes, are displayed as nodes (circle shape in FIG. 5) corresponding to the order of steps in producing a printed product. Furthermore, among the task objects, nodes representing tasks for intermediate parts function as intermediate objects.

[0062] Furthermore, for each of a plurality of parts, nodes that are work objects representing the work included in the manufacturing process of each part are displayed arranged in the order of the work, and the nodes are related to each other so that they are processed consecutively and have relationships between them. Figure 5 shows an example in which nodes are related to each other by being connected to each other by dotted lines. Furthermore, nodes that are intermediate objects representing intermediate parts are related (connected) to other nodes that are work objects so that they have relationships with the work objects for the plurality of parts used to generate the intermediate part.

[0063] A plurality of pieces of template information are created in advance corresponding to the number of parts that make up a printed product, the type of processing, and so on, and these plurality of pieces of template information are stored in the storage unit 22. Each of the plurality of pieces of template information is stored in association with identification information for identifying it, such as information indicating a different "workflow ID (IDentification)" and "workflow name." In other words, the template information is managed in association with the workflow ID and workflow name.

[0064] The acquisition unit 200 acquires manufacturing information for manufacturing a printed product.

[0065] In this embodiment, as an example, the information processing device 2 acquires information required for manufacturing a printed product (hereinafter referred to as MIS information) from the MIS 3. This MIS information is, for example, information written in XML format. As an example, the MIS information includes various types of information such as a workflow ID indicating product workflow information for the printed product, a component type ID indicating the components that make up the printed product, and information indicating processes such as processing applied to the printed product as components and steps. From this MIS information, it is possible to identify steps, processes, work objects, and the like when manufacturing a printed product.

[0066] The identification unit 202 identifies the type (pattern) of manufacturing processes using the MIS information acquired from the MIS 3. Here, the type (pattern) of manufacturing processes is information for identifying the manufacturing process based on a combination of component information, such as the number of components included in the printed product, and information indicating the manufacturing process for each component. In other words, the identification unit 202 uses the MIS information to identify the multiple processes required from the time an order is received until the completion of the printed product, and the multiple components required to manufacture the printed product.

[0067] The generation unit 204 generates work objects and intermediate objects that represent work in manufacturing a printed product based on the type of manufacturing process identified by the identification unit 202. Specifically, for each of a plurality of parts included in the printed product, the generation unit 204 generates work objects that represent work including processing performed to manufacture each individual part. The generation unit 204 also generates an intermediate object that represents an intermediate part for an intermediate part that is generated by processing at least two of the plurality of parts together.

[0068] The creation unit 206 uses the MIS information acquired from the MIS 3 and the work objects and intermediate objects created by the creation unit 204 to create product workflow information that associates (connects) the work objects and intermediate objects.

[0069] The creation unit 206 has an editing function for creating and partially changing product workflow information, which will be described later.

[0070] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the generating unit 204 and creating unit 206 generate work objects and intermediate objects and create a workflow for a printed product by obtaining, from the storage unit 22, template information that matches the type of manufacturing process, i.e., information indicating the number of parts included in the printed product and the manufacturing process for each part, from the MIS information obtained from the MIS 3. Specifically, template information that matches the type of manufacturing process, i.e., information indicating the number of parts included in the printed product and the manufacturing process for each part, is obtained from the storage unit 22.

[0071] If multiple pieces of template information match the MIS information acquired from MIS3, the multiple pieces of template information can be set as candidate template information, and one of the multiple pieces of candidate template information can be selected.

[0072] The display control unit 208 creates display information for displaying the product workflow information created by the creation unit 206 on the display unit 26, and controls the display of the created display information on the display unit 26.

[0073] The display control unit 208 can perform display control to display information obtained by each functional unit, ie, the acquisition unit 200, the identification unit 202, the generation unit 204, and the creation unit 206, on the display unit .

[0074] Furthermore, the display control unit 208 performs control to display the progress status of each of at least two parts that make up the intermediate part when processing of the intermediate part has not started in the product workflow information.

[0075] Next, the operation of the information processing device 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0076] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the information processing program 22A executed in the information processing device 2.

[0077] In the information processing device 2, when an instruction to start the information processing program 22A is given, the CPU 20A functions as each of the functional units described above and executes each of the following steps.

[0078] 6, the acquisition unit 200 acquires MIS information from the MIS 3. As described above, the MIS information is information written in XML format, and includes information about parts and manufacturing processes used to manufacture printed products.

[0079] Next, an example of MIS information is shown.

[0080] <product_template_attributes> <product_wf_template_id> WFID_020< / product_wf_template_id> <part_template_attributes> <part_type_id> ID020_1_1< / part_seq> +Attribute information for each process < / part_template_attributes> < / product_template_attributes> ...

[0081] This MIS information indicates that the workflow ID of the template information indicating the template specified for the printed product is "WFID_020" (see also Figure 9). In addition, the part included in the template information is "ID020_1_1," and the process content of that part, i.e., the work object, is shown as "attribute information for each process."

[0082] In step S102, the identification unit 202 uses the MIS information to identify the type of manufacturing process, thereby identifying template information for generating candidate product workflow information. In step S102, the identification unit 202 detects a workflow ID included in the MIS information, and identifies template information using the detected workflow ID. This identified template information is an example of a compatible template of the present disclosure.

[0083] In step S104, the generation unit 204 and the creation unit 206 generate candidates for product workflows (product workflow information) that include intermediate parts. In this step S104, the generation unit 204 first generates work objects and intermediate objects that indicate work in manufacturing a printed product, based on the identified type of manufacturing process. Then, the creation unit 206 uses the MIS information and the work objects and intermediate objects to generate candidates for product workflows that include intermediate parts, which are formed by connecting the work objects and intermediate objects.

[0084] Specifically, template information that matches the workflow ID included in the MIS information is obtained from the storage unit 22, and work objects and intermediate objects are generated, and product workflow candidates are created by connecting these nodes.

[0085] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of template information that is a candidate for a product workflow.

[0086] 7 shows a screen 110 as an example of template information displayed on the display unit 26. The display control unit 208 controls the display of the screen 110 on the display unit 26 using the template information.

[0087] The screen 110 includes display areas 111, 112, and 113. In the display area 111, instruction buttons related to the creation of a product workflow are displayed. In the example shown in Fig. 7, instruction buttons for "Add," "Edit," "Cancel," "Duplicate," "Delete," "Enable," and "Disable" are displayed. These instruction buttons are instructed by the user operating the operation unit 28.

[0088] The "Add" instruction button is a button for instructing the addition of a new product workflow. The "Edit" instruction button is a button for instructing the start of editing an existing product workflow. The "Cancel" instruction button is a button for instructing the cancellation of editing a product workflow that is being edited. The "Duplicate" instruction button is a button for instructing the creation of an identical workflow by duplicating an existing product workflow. The "Delete" instruction button is a button for instructing the deletion of a selected product workflow. The "Enable" instruction button is a button for setting the selected product workflow to an available state. The "Disable" instruction button is a button for setting the selected product workflow from an available state to an unavailable state.

[0089] Display area 112 displays a list of template information stored in storage unit 22. In the example list shown in Fig. 7, various types of information included in the template information, including a workflow ID and workflow name for identifying the template information, are associated with labels indicating the items.

[0090] As in FIG. 5, the display area 113 displays each of the tasks in the manufacturing process in the selected template information. Specifically, each of the task objects in the selected template information (the information included in the area surrounded by a thick frame 114 in the display area 112) is displayed as a node (circular shape). Furthermore, among the task objects, a node indicating a task for an intermediate part functions as an intermediate object. In this case, the intermediate object includes an intermediate processing object and an intermediate work object. An intermediate processing object indicates processing for multiple parts ("processing" in the example of FIG. 7). Furthermore, an intermediate work object indicates a task for a generated intermediate part ("part custom 203" in the example of FIG. 7).

[0091] In step S106, the creation unit 206 performs an editing process on the product workflow candidate. Specifically, when one of the instruction buttons shown in Fig. 7 is designated by a user's operation of the operation unit 28, the process of step S106 starts. For example, when the edit button is designated, an editing process for changing a part of the product workflow candidate starts.

[0092] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in the editing process.

[0093] 8 shows, as an example, a screen 120 in which editing is performed to change part of a product workflow candidate when the edit button is instructed. The display control unit 208 controls the display of the screen 120 on the display unit 26 during editing.

[0094] The screen 120 includes display areas 121, 122, and 123. The display area 121 displays a workflow ID and a workflow name indicating the template information to be edited (that is, a candidate for a product workflow).

[0095] Display area 122 displays instruction buttons for instructing the editing status of the template information to be edited. In the example shown in Fig. 8, instruction buttons for "Clear," "Undo," "Next," "Save," "Temporarily save," and "Close" are displayed. These instruction buttons are specified by the user operating operation unit 28.

[0096] The "Clear" instruction button is a button for instructing to erase the processing (editing operation) performed on the product workflow candidate being edited. The "Undo" instruction button is a button for instructing to cancel the most recently processed editing operation and return to the previous state. The "Forward" instruction button is a button for instructing to return to the original state of the canceled editing operation from the state returned by the "Undo" instruction button. The "Save" instruction button is a button for instructing to save the product workflow candidate in the current editing work state, i.e., to store it in the memory unit 22. The "Temporarily save" instruction button is a button for instructing to temporarily save the product workflow candidate in the current editing work state in RAM 20B. The "Close" instruction button is a button for instructing to end the editing process of the product workflow candidate being edited and close screen 120.

[0097] 5, each work object in the template information to be edited is displayed as a node (circle graphic) in the display area 123. Furthermore, among the work objects, a node indicating a work of an intermediate part functions as an intermediate object.

[0098] In the editing process, it is possible to delete a work object displayed in the display area, or to add a work object displayed in the process column (for example, by dragging a shape).

[0099] Next, in step S108, the creation unit 206 creates the product workflow candidate for which editing has been completed as a product workflow. That is, when the "Close" instruction button shown in Fig. 8 is pressed and saving is completed, product workflow information indicating the product workflow candidate is created. The created product workflow information is stored in the storage unit 22.

[0100] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of product workflow information.

[0101] 9 shows a screen 130 as an example of product workflow information displayed on the display unit 26. The display control unit 208 controls the display of the product workflow information on the display unit 26. By this control, the display unit 26 displays, for example, an image of the screen 130.

[0102] The screen 130 includes display areas 131, 132, 133, and 134. In the display area 131, instruction buttons related to the state of the product workflow to be displayed are displayed. In the example shown in Fig. 9, instruction buttons for "Order", "Product", "Parts", and "Shipping" are displayed. These instruction buttons are specified by the user operating the operation unit 28.

[0103] The "Order" instruction button indicates an instruction button for instructing the display of a product workflow when the manufacturing stage of a printed product is the order receiving stage. The "Product" instruction button indicates an instruction button for instructing the display of a product workflow for a printed product. The "Parts" instruction button indicates an instruction button for instructing the partial display of the product workflow for a printed product related to parts. The "Shipping" instruction button indicates an instruction button for instructing the display of a product workflow when the manufacturing stage of a printed product is the shipping stage.

[0104] Display area 132 displays a list of product workflow information read from storage unit 22 in response to the instruction button designated in display area 131. In the example list shown in Fig. 9, product workflow information corresponding to the designated instruction button (the instruction button indicating "Product" surrounded by a thick frame 135 in display area 131) is displayed.

[0105] 5, each work object corresponding to the specified product workflow (product workflow information surrounded by a thick frame line 136 in the display area 132) is displayed as a node (circular shape) in the display area 133. Furthermore, among the work objects, a node indicating the work of an intermediate part functions as an intermediate object.

[0106] 9, nodes (work objects) are generated for each manufacturing process of parts 201 and 202. Also, a node (intermediate object) is generated for the intermediate process of intermediate part 203, which is a work-in-progress made up of a combination of parts 201 and 202. This is followed in order by a node indicating the inspection process and a node indicating the shipping process. Therefore, product workflow information is created in which the nodes (work objects) for the manufacturing processes of parts 201 and 202 and the nodes (intermediate objects) for the intermediate process of intermediate part 203 are connected from the reception process to the shipping process.

[0107] The display area 134 displays the MIS information acquired from the MIS 3. The example in Fig. 9 shows a case where a table in which information indicating each of "item" and "content" is associated with each other is displayed as an example of displaying MIS information.

[0108] The product workflow information is configured to display work status information indicating the progress of work according to the current product workflow information in conjunction with the MIS information from the MIS 3. Specifically, the display control unit 208 controls the display unit 26 to display the progress of each work object indicated by the MIS information.

[0109] In the display area 133 shown in FIG. 9 , the printed product and its components are displayed as "product name," and the components are displayed as "component 201," "component 202," and "intermediate component 203." In this case, the display form of the node corresponding to the current progress state is changed as work status information. For example, if the MIS information from MIS3 includes information indicating that component 201 is in the production stage and component 202 is in the printing stage, each node is displayed in a different display form from the other nodes. Specifically, the nodes indicating the production process of component 201 and the printing process of component 202 are displayed in a different display form 137 (display form using black circle symbols) from the other nodes. At this stage, intermediate component 203 is generated by combining components 201 and 202, so it is possible to confirm that intermediate component 203 has not yet been generated. In this way, by changing the display form of the nodes, it is possible to check the progress state of work in the workflow of the printed product.

[0110] Examples of changing the display form of the node described above include changing the shape of the image displayed as the node, changing the color of the node, and changing the node by adding an annotation image.

[0111] As described above, multiple manufacturing processes and multiple parts from order receipt to completion of a printed product are identified, and intermediate objects representing the intermediate parts are generated for the intermediate parts produced by processing the parts. Then, the work objects are displayed in order of the work, and the work objects between consecutively processed works are connected and displayed. Product workflow information is also created for displaying the connections between the intermediate objects and the work objects. Therefore, when managing the process of a printed product from order receipt to completion, it is easy to understand which parts are used to make up the intermediate parts.

[0112] Next, in step S110, the creation unit 206 determines whether or not processing of the intermediate part has started. If it is determined that processing of the intermediate part has started (if the determination is positive), the status of the intermediate part is set to "ready to start" and a series of processes by the information processing program 22A is terminated. If it is determined that processing of the intermediate part has not started (if the determination is negative), the process proceeds to step S112.

[0113] In step S112, the display control unit 208 controls the display unit 26 to display the progress status of each of the at least two parts that make up the intermediate part in the product workflow created in step S108, and then ends a series of processes by this information processing program 22A.

[0114] Next, the intermediate part progress management method according to this embodiment will be specifically described with reference to FIGS.

[0115] 10(A), 10(B), and 10(C) are diagrams showing an example of a process edit screen 210 according to this embodiment.

[0116] The process editing screen 210 shown in Fig. 10(A) shows a state in which the "General" tab is selected. In this "General" tab, the following setting items can be specified for each process: "Start work automatically," "Automatically send data when work starts," and "Automatically complete work." In this case, by linking with the external system MIS3, it becomes possible to process each process fully automatically.

[0117] 10(B) shows a state in which the "Process Attributes" tab is selected on the process edit screen 210. In this "Process Attributes" tab, it is possible to specify the printing equipment (printer) to be used in the process.

[0118] 10(C) shows a state in which the "Grouping" tab is selected on the process edit screen 210. In this "Grouping" tab, it is possible to specify grouping conditions for grouping parts.

[0119] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a workflow information display screen 220 according to this embodiment.

[0120] 11 shows a product workflow. In this product workflow, work objects are generated for each manufacturing process of each part of "part type name 1" and "part type name 2." In addition, intermediate objects are generated for the intermediate process of "intermediate part 20," which is a work-in-progress made up of a combination of the parts of "part type name 1" and "part type name 2."

[0121] The work objects for the manufacturing process of the part with "part type name 1" include a work object 221 represented as a "printing process name." This work object 221 is associated with work attribute information 222 including status information of the corresponding part. This work attribute information 222 can be displayed as a pop-up when the work object 221 is designated. Similarly, the work objects for the manufacturing process of the part with "part type name 2" include a work object 223 represented as a "printing process name." This work object 223 is associated with work attribute information 224 including status information of the corresponding part. This work attribute information 224 can be displayed as a pop-up when the work object 223 is designated. Furthermore, the intermediate objects for the intermediate process of the intermediate part with "intermediate part 20" include an intermediate object 225 represented as "processing 20." This intermediate object 225 is associated with work attribute information 226 including status information of the corresponding intermediate part. This work attribute information 226 can be displayed as a pop-up when the intermediate object 225 is designated. These work object 221, work object 223, and intermediate object 225 are displayed as icons, for example.

[0122] As described above, the CPU 20A functions as the display control unit 208 and controls the display of the progress status of at least two components that constitute an intermediate part when processing of the intermediate part has not started in the product workflow. Specifically, in the example of FIG. 11 , when the work attribute information 226 for the intermediate part "intermediate part 20" is referenced, the status is displayed as "not ready to start." In this case, processing of the intermediate part "intermediate part 20" is not started. The intermediate part "intermediate part 20" is composed of two components, "component type name 1" and "component type name 2." The initial processing of the intermediate part remains "not ready to start" until all final processes of each component are completed. In the example of FIG. 11 , when the work attribute information 222 for one component, "component type name 1," is referenced, the status is displayed as "process not started." Furthermore, when the work attribute information 224 for the other component, "component type name 2," is referenced, the status is displayed as "process completed." In other words, the progress status of each of the two components that constitute the intermediate part is displayed.

[0123] In this case, the CPU 20A identifies, in the product workflow, the part and process that are causing the inability to start processing of the intermediate part, among at least two parts that make up the intermediate part. In the example of FIG. 11, the status of one of the parts, "part type name 1," is "process not started." Therefore, the part represented as "part type name 1" is identified as the reason the inability to start processing of the intermediate part, "intermediate part 20." In addition, the process represented as "printing process name" is identified as the reason the inability to start processing.

[0124] Fig. 12(A) is a diagram showing an example of a work status screen 230 of the printing device according to this embodiment. Fig. 12(B) is a diagram showing an example of a work status screen 240 of the processing device according to this embodiment.

[0125] The work status screen 230 shown in FIG. 12(A) manages the work status of "aaaa6A," a printing device (printing equipment) used to print the parts "Component Type Name 1" and "Component Type Name 2." When an item 231 related to "aaaa6A" is selected on the work status screen 230, work status information 232 corresponding to "Component Type Name 2" and work status information 234 corresponding to "Component Type Name 1" are displayed. In the work status information 232 corresponding to "Component Type Name 2," the status 233 is displayed as "Completed," and in the work status information 234 corresponding to "Component Type Name 1," the status 235 is displayed as "Not Started." The status 233 of the work status information 232 corresponds to the status of the work attribute information 224 shown in FIG. 11 described above, and the status 235 of the work status information 234 corresponds to the status of the work attribute information 222 shown in FIG. 11 described above.

[0126] The work status screen 240 shown in FIG. 12(B) manages the work status of "bbbb9B," which is a processing device (processing equipment) used to process the intermediate part "intermediate part 20." When an item 241 related to "bbbb9B" is selected on the work status screen 240, work status information 242 corresponding to "intermediate part 20" is displayed. In the work status information 242 corresponding to "intermediate part 20," the status 243 is displayed as "Not ready to start." The status 243 of the work status information 242 corresponds to the status of the work attribute information 226 shown in FIG. 11 described above.

[0127] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another example of the workflow information display screen 220 according to this embodiment.

[0128] As in the example of FIG. 11 described above, the workflow information display screen 220 shown in FIG. 13 displays a work object 221 represented as a "print process name" of a "part type name 1" and an intermediate object 225 represented as "processing 20" of an "intermediate part 20." Further, detailed information 227 is associated with the work object 221. This detailed information 227 manages the contact information (e.g., email address, etc.) of the process manager. For example, the "start reporter ID" and "completion reporter ID" of the detailed information 227 are associated with the email address of the process manager (Administrator).

[0129] Here, as described above, the part represented as "part type name 1" is identified as the cause of the inability to start machining of the intermediate part represented as "intermediate part 20." In this case, the CPU 20A may perform control to notify the process manager who manages the process of the part that is causing the inability to start machining of the intermediate part that the process is delayed. Specifically, the CPU 20A obtains the email address of the process manager from the detailed information 227, and automatically sends a message to the obtained email address, such as, "The xx process of part xx is delayed. Please adjust the process."

[0130] 13, the task object 221 and the intermediate object 225 are delayed relative to their scheduled completion. In this case, for example, a warning may be displayed by changing the color of the icon representing the task object 221 (e.g., a printer icon) and the icon representing the intermediate object 225 (e.g., a printer icon). Note that the warning display is not limited to changing the color of the icon, and may also be in the form of, for example, adding an exclamation mark to the icon. This makes it possible to grasp at a glance which process of which part is delayed.

[0131] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the product workflow display area 250 on the workflow information display screen 220 according to this embodiment.

[0132] 14, a product workflow is displayed in the product workflow display area 250. This product workflow includes an intermediate object 251 represented as "processing 20" of an "intermediate part 20." An x mark is added to the icon representing the intermediate object 251, and this x mark indicates that some kind of error has occurred in the process of the intermediate part represented as the "intermediate part 20." In this case, for example, a warning may be displayed by changing the color of the icon representing the intermediate object 251.

[0133] Here, the parts that failed to be processed in "Process 20" are retroactively generated. In this case, the process for retroactively generating the failed parts is added as a separate process from the "Print Process Name" for "Component Type Name 1" or the "Print Process Name" for "Component Type Name 2." The "Print Process Name" indicates the process for printing the parts. The number of copies printed in the added process is then combined with the number of copies successfully processed in "Process 20" to manage the total number of non-defective products. For example, assume that an order for a printed product contains 100 copies, of which 50 copies were successfully processed in "Process 20" and 50 copies failed. If 50 copies of a "Component Type Name 2" part need to be reprinted in order to reprocess the 50 failed copies in "Process 20," a "Print Process Name" (see Figure 17 below) is added as a separate process from the "Print Process Name" for "Component Type Name 2," and 50 copies of a "Component Type Name 2" part are printed.

[0134] When an error occurs in an intermediate part in a product workflow, CPU 20A identifies the number of copies that need to be reprocessed for each of at least two parts that make up the intermediate part. For example, work status dialog 252 corresponding to intermediate object 251 is displayed. In work status dialog 252, the status is displayed as "Error," and "Reprint" instruction button 253 is displayed. When "Reprint" instruction button 253 is instructed by operation unit 28, the screen transitions to reprint screen 260 shown in FIG. 15.

[0135] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a reprint screen 260 according to this embodiment.

[0136] The reprint screen 260 shown in FIG. 15 allows the user to specify the number of copies required for reprinting each part. Here, for example, the user can specify the number of copies required for reprinting each part represented as "part type name 1" and "part type name 2." The number of copies required for reprinting is determined based on the number of copies specified on the reprint screen 260. Note that if "Start work automatically," "Automatically send data when work starts," and "Automatically complete work" are all specified for each process on the process edit screen 210 shown in FIG. 10(A) above, reprocessing is automatically performed for the number of copies specified on the reprint screen 260.

[0137] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing another example of the product workflow display area 250 according to this embodiment.

[0138] The product workflow after reprocessing is displayed in the product workflow display area 250 shown in Fig. 16. This product workflow includes an intermediate object 251 represented as "processing 20" of "intermediate part 20" and a work object 254 represented as "printing process name" of "part type name 1". As described above, because an error occurred in the process of the intermediate part represented as "intermediate part 20", for example, a process of the work object 254 represented as "printing process name" of "part type name 1" is added. In other words, the part represented as "part type name 1" is retroactively reprocessed.

[0139] CPU 20A associates information about the reprocessing work with a work object corresponding to the reprocessing work and registers it. In the example of FIG. 16, work object 254 corresponds to the reprocessing work. However, the number of icons displayed does not change, and process information 255 including the status of the added process is displayed. Process information 255 is an example of information about the reprocessing work, and includes the number of copies of the part to be added, the status, the number of reprocessings, etc. In process information 255, the number of copies, the status, the number of reprocessings, etc. are changed each time reprocessing is performed.

[0140] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a details screen 270 according to this embodiment.

[0141] When reprocessing a part as described above, a process is added internally, and one record for the printing process is added to the details screen 270 shown in FIG. 17. Specifically, the details screen 270 displays a record 271 and status information 272. The record 271 is a record corresponding to the added printing process (for example, expressed as a "printing process name"). The status information 272 is information related to the status of the printing process corresponding to the record 271. The status managed by the status information 272 is reflected in the process information 255.

[0142] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing another example of the product workflow display area 250 according to this embodiment.

[0143] The product workflow display area 250 shown in FIG. 18 displays the product workflow when all final processes for a part are complete. This product workflow includes an intermediate object 251 represented as "Processing 20" of "Intermediate Part 20," a work object 254 represented as "Printing Process Name" of "Part Type Name 1," and a work object 256 represented as "Printing Process Name" of "Part Type Name 2." Work attribute information 257 including status information for the corresponding intermediate part is associated with the intermediate object 251. This work attribute information 257 can be displayed as a pop-up when the intermediate object 251 is specified.

[0144] In the product workflow, when all work on at least two parts constituting an intermediate part has been completed, the CPU 20A sets the state to one in which the first work on the intermediate part can be started. Specifically, in the example of Fig. 18, when all work on each of the parts "part type name 1" and "part type name 2" has been completed, the state is one in which the first work on the intermediate part "intermediate part 20" can be started, that is, the status of the work attribute information 257 becomes "process not started."

[0145] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a work status screen 280 and a work completion cancellation dialog box 286 of the printing device according to this embodiment.

[0146] 19 manages the work status of "aaaa6A," a printing device (printing equipment) used to print the parts of "component type name 1" and "component type name 2." When an item 281 related to "aaaa6A" is selected on the work status screen 280, work status information 282 corresponding to "component type name 2" and work status information 284 corresponding to "component type name 1" are displayed. In work status information 282 corresponding to "component type name 2," status 283 is displayed as "completed," and in work status information 284 corresponding to "component type name 1," status 285 is displayed as "processing."

[0147] In the product workflow, when the first task of an intermediate part is set to a startable state, the CPU 20A can cancel the task completion status for each of at least two parts that make up the intermediate part. Specifically, when the status of the "Processing 20" process is "Process not started," it is possible to cancel the "Completed" status 283 of "Component Type Name 2." This "Completed" status can be canceled from the task completion cancellation dialog 286. Note that when the status of the "Processing 20" process is in progress or completed, the task completion related to printing the part cannot be canceled.

[0148] Next, a specific example of a method for adding a process when reprocessing a part will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0149] 20(A), 20(B), and 20(C) are diagrams illustrating an example of a method for adding a reprocessing step according to this embodiment.

[0150] As shown in Figure 20(A), for a certain part, assume that the ordered number of copies is 100, the internal spare is 20, the number of copies manufactured is 120, and the number of copies printed is 120. Note that "reception" indicates the reception process, "pu" indicates the prepress process, "printing" indicates the printing process, and "processing" indicates the processing process.

[0151] As shown in Figure 20(B), in the "printing" process, if, of the 120 copies printed, 80 are good (indicated by "good") and 40 are defective (indicated by "fail"), the "printing" status will be set to "Printing provisionally completed," indicating that printing is provisionally completed. In this case, the total number of good copies (indicated by "total good") is 80 copies, and the total number of defective copies (indicated by "total fail") is 40 copies.

[0152] As shown in Figure 20(C), a "Printing" process that reprints 40 copies of the defective products is added as "Printing 2." The status of this "Printing 2" process is initially "Not started." Then, the status of "Printing partially completed" shown in Figure 20(B) is changed to "Printing completed." At this point, the total number of good products is 80 copies, and the total number of defective products is 40 copies.

[0153] 21(A), 21(B), and 21(C) are diagrams for explaining another example in which a reprocessing step according to this embodiment is added.

[0154] As shown in Figure 21(A), in the "Printing 2" process shown in Figure 20(C) above, if the reprint results in 30 good copies and 10 defective copies, the status of "Printing 2" will be set to "Printing provisionally completed 2." In this case, the total number of good copies will be 110 (= 80 + 30) copies, and the total number of defective copies will be 50 (= 40 + 10) copies.

[0155] As shown in FIG. 21(B), the status of "Printing provisionally completed 2" shown in FIG. 21(A) is changed to "Printing completed 2."

[0156] As shown in Figure 21(C), the number of copies to be processed in the "processing" step is set to 120. In this case, the total number of non-defective products is 0 (zero), and the total number of defective products is 0 (zero).

[0157] 22(A), 22(B), and 22(C) are diagrams for explaining another example in which a reprocessing step according to this embodiment is added.

[0158] As shown in Figure 22(A), in the "processing" process shown in Figure 21(C) above, if there are 90 good products and 20 defective products out of 120 processed copies, the status of "processing" will be "temporarily completed." In this case, the total number of good products will be 90 copies and the total number of defective products will be 20 copies.

[0159] As shown in Figure 22(B), a "processing" process to reprocess 20 copies of the defective products is added as "processing 2." In addition, a "printing" process to reprint 20 copies is added as "printing 3." Then, the status of "processing partially completed" shown in Figure 22(A) is changed to "processing completed." At this point, the total number of good products is 110 (= 80 + 30) copies, and the total number of defective products is 50 (= 40 + 10) copies.

[0160] As shown in Figure 22(C), in the "Printing 3" process shown in Figure 22(B) above, if 20 of the 20 copies printed are good and 0 (zero) are defective, the status of "Printing 3" is set to "Printing provisionally completed 3." In this case, the total number of good copies is 130 (= 80 + 30 + 20), and the total number of defective copies is 50 (= 40 + 10).

[0161] 23(A) and 23(B) are diagrams for explaining another example in which a reprocessing step according to this embodiment is added.

[0162] As shown in Figure 23(A), in the "Processing 2" process shown in Figure 22(C) above, if there are 20 good products and 0 (zero) defective products out of the 20 processed copies, the status of "Processing 2" will be "Processing provisionally completed 2." In this case, the total number of good products will be 110 (= 90 + 20) copies, and the total number of defective products will be 20 (= 20 + 0) copies.

[0163] As shown in Fig. 23(B), the status of "Processing temporarily completed 2" shown in Fig. 23(A) is changed to "Processing completed 2." At this time, the total number of non-defective products is 110, and the total number of defective products is 20.

[0164] As described above, according to this embodiment, when processing of an intermediate part does not start, control is performed to display the progress status of each of at least two parts that make up the intermediate part. Compared to when a workflow is generated and managed without managing an intermediate part generated by combining multiple parts, it becomes easier to understand the reason why processing of the intermediate part cannot start.

[0165] In each of the above embodiments, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0166] Furthermore, the operations of the processor in each of the above embodiments may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located at physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of the operations of the processor is not limited to the order described in each of the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0167] The above describes an information processing device according to an embodiment. The embodiment may be in the form of a program for causing a computer to execute the functions of each unit of the information processing device. The embodiment may be in the form of a non-transitory storage medium that stores the program and is readable by a computer.

[0168] Furthermore, the configuration of the information processing device described in the above embodiment is merely an example, and may be changed depending on the situation without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0169] Furthermore, the processing flow of the program described in the above embodiment is also an example, and unnecessary steps may be deleted, new steps may be added, or the processing order may be rearranged within the scope of the main idea.

[0170] In the above embodiment, the processing according to the embodiment is realized by a software configuration using a computer by executing a program, but the present invention is not limited to this. The embodiment may be realized by, for example, a hardware configuration or a combination of a hardware configuration and a software configuration. [Explanation of symbols]

[0171] 1 Printing network system 2. Information processing equipment 3 Management Information Systems 4. Calibration Management System 5A, 5B Prepress System 6A, 6B printing system 7A, 7B processing equipment 20 Control Unit 22 Memory section 22A Information Processing Program 24 Communications Department 26 Display section 28 Control section 200 Acquisition Department 202 Specific section 204 Generation part 206 Creation Department 208 Display control unit

Claims

1. a processor; The processor: Display a workflow that shows the relationship between processes involved in manufacturing a product that includes multiple parts. displaying the progress status of each of the plurality of parts by changing the display format of some of the plurality of processes included in the workflow; If there is a part among the plurality of parts for which the process has not been started, the part that caused the process not to be started is identified; Identifying the process that caused the component to not be started among a plurality of processes performed on the identified component; displaying the identified process among the processes included in the displayed workflow in a form different from other processes; Information processing device.

2. The product is a printed product. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. The process comprises: The printing process, a processing step for the printed matter that is the result of the printing step; Including, The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. The processing step is a step of generating intermediate parts by processing a plurality of parts including printed materials. The information processing device according to claim 3 .

5. The workflow is editable. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

6. The processor: When the processing of the intermediate part cannot be started, the progress status of each of at least two parts constituting the intermediate part is displayed. The information processing device according to claim 4 .

7. When the part for which the process is not started among the plurality of parts is an intermediate part, the processor identifies a part constituting the intermediate part as a part causing the problem. The information processing device according to claim 4 .

8. The processor controls to display or notify a message prompting adjustment of the process together with the part causing the problem. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

9. Display a workflow that shows the relationship between processes involved in manufacturing a product that includes multiple parts. displaying the progress status of each of the plurality of parts by changing the display format of some of the plurality of processes included in the workflow; If there is a part among the plurality of parts for which the process has not been started, the part that caused the process not to be started is identified; Identifying the process that caused the component to not be started among a plurality of processes performed on the identified component; a process of displaying the identified process among the processes included in the displayed workflow in a form different from other processes; An information processing program to be executed by a computer.

Images