Task map creation system, task map generation method, and task map generation program

Abstract

To provide a work map creation system, a work map creation method, and a work map creation program in which a burden on a user involved in creation of a work map can be lessened.SOLUTION: A work map creation system 10 includes a designation unit 11, and a creation processing unit 12. The designation unit 11 can automatically designate two or more farm fields as target farm fields on the basis of a selection condition. The creation processing unit 12 creates work maps for the two or more farm fields designated as target farm fields in accordance with a mapping condition such that the work maps each have a plurality of sections for which respective work indexes are determined, and correspond to the two or more farm fields.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a work map creation system, a work map creation method, and a work map creation program for creating a work map used in work in a farm field. [Background technology]

[0002] A related technology is known, which is a system for creating a spraying plan for a field (see, for example, Patent Document 1). When one piece of field identification information is selected from multiple pieces of field identification information displayed in a field selection section, the related technology system creates a work map (spraying information) that includes the amount of spraying for each area of ​​the field (selected field) corresponding to the selected field identification information. One function of this type of system is to create a work map based on an agricultural map such as a yield map.

[0003] Specifically, in related technology, a field showing a farmland is divided into multiple areas, and a mesh-type yield map in which harvest data is assigned to each area is displayed. A spray input section for inputting the amount of spraying for each area is displayed on the same screen as the yield map. This allows the user to create a work map while viewing the yield map. Alternatively, in related technology, the amount of spraying for each area is automatically set in accordance with the data for each area on the agricultural map. For example, if the agricultural map is a growth map, the amount of spraying of a substance (fertilizer, pesticide, etc.) for each area is set to be large in accordance with the data value, so that if the data value for each area is small, i.e., if crop growth is slow, the amount of spraying of the substance for each area (fertilizer, pesticide, etc.) will be set to be large in accordance with the data value, so that crop growth will progress if the data value for each area is small. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-187377 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In the configuration of the related art described above, when one field is selected, a work map (spraying information) for that one field is created. Therefore, when creating work maps for multiple fields, the user must repeat the procedure, including selecting the field and creating the work map, for each field, which can be a significant burden when there are many fields.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a work map creation system, a work map creation method, and a work map creation program that can reduce the burden on users involved in creating work maps. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, a work map creation system includes a designation unit and a creation processing unit. The designation unit can automatically designate two or more fields as target fields based on selection conditions. The creation processing unit creates work maps for each of the two or more fields designated as the target fields in accordance with the mapping conditions, the work maps having multiple sections, each section having a work index set for that section.

[0008] A method for generating a work map according to another aspect of the present invention includes automatically designating two or more fields as target fields based on selection conditions, and creating a work map corresponding to each of the two or more fields designated as the target fields, the work map having a plurality of plots, each of which has a work index set according to the mapping conditions.

[0009] A work map generation program relating to another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing one or more processors to automatically designate two or more fields as target fields based on selection conditions, and for the two or more fields designated as the target fields, create a work map corresponding to each of the two or more fields, each having a plurality of plots for which a work index is set in accordance with the mapping conditions. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a work map creation system, a work map creation method, and a work map creation program that can reduce the burden on the user involved in creating a work map. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the system configuration of a task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of transferring information from the work map creation system according to the first embodiment to a work machine. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a task map used in the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of screen transitions in the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a result list screen of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a field setting screen of the work map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a priority setting screen of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a parameter setting screen of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a reference screen of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a main part of a parameter setting screen of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a result confirmation screen of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a series of processes related to the creation process of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a series of processes related to calculation-related processes of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a series of processes related to the restriction-related process of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a result comparison screen of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a result correction screen of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a result correction screen of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of an output screen of the task map creation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a result comparison screen of a task map creation system according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing the system configuration of a task map creation system according to the second embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The following description will discuss preferred embodiments of the present invention with reference to the accompanying drawings. The preferred embodiments are merely examples of the present invention and are not intended to limit the technical scope of the present invention.

[0013] (Embodiment 1) [1] Overall structure As shown in FIG. 1, the work map creation system 10 according to this embodiment includes a management server 2 and a user terminal 3. The work map creation system 10 creates a work map M1 (see FIG. 3) to be used for work in a field F1 (see FIG. 2). In this embodiment, as an example, the work map M1 is a "fertilization map" to be used for fertilizer spreading work (i.e., fertilization work) in the field F1. This type of work map M1 is a type of work support information D1 (see FIG. 2) to be used for spreading work (including fertilization work) in the field F1. Therefore, the work map creation system 10 according to this embodiment is an example of a work support information creation system that creates work support information D1.

[0014] The work map M1 (work support information D1) created by the work map creation system 10 is output from the work map creation system 10 in a format that can be input into the work machine 4, for example, and is used by the work machine 4. In the present disclosure, the term "work machine" refers to various types of work machines that move within the field F1, and examples include work vehicles such as rice transplanters, tractors, spreaders, sprayers, sowing machines, transplanters, and combine harvesters. In other words, work machines include work vehicles. The work machine 4 is not limited to "vehicles" such as rice transplanters and tractors, but may also be, for example, work aircraft such as drones or multicopters used for fertilizing or spraying pesticides. Furthermore, the work machine 4 is not limited to agricultural machinery (agricultural machinery), but may also be, for example, construction machinery (construction machinery). In this embodiment, unless otherwise specified, an example will be described in which the work machine 4 is a riding rice transplanter that is capable of performing at least the work of spreading "fertilizer" as a spreadable material, i.e., fertilization work, as its work.

[0015] Furthermore, the term "field" in this disclosure refers to a work area in which a work machine 4 moves and performs various tasks, such as fertilizing, spraying pesticides, sowing seeds, planting (rice transplanting), or harvesting, and includes rice paddies, fields, orchards, pastures, and the like, in which agricultural products are grown. In this case, the crops grown in the field F1 are agricultural products. Furthermore, if plants are grown in a nursery, the nursery becomes the field F1, and if trees to be used as lumber are grown in a forest, as in forestry, the forest becomes the field F1. In this case, the crops grown in the field F1 are plants or trees, etc. Such a field F1 is a specific location in real space (a space that actually exists), and therefore its position, shape, size, etc. are represented, for example, by an address on a map, or by latitude and longitude, etc. In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the work target area in real space in which the work machine 4 moves and performs various tasks is the field F1, but the work target area may be other than the field F1. For example, if the work machine 4 is a construction machine, the work site where the construction machine performs work is the work target area. In this embodiment, unless otherwise specified, a case will be described in which the field F1 is an outdoor rice paddy.

[0016] Furthermore, it is not essential that the work map M1 (work support information D1) created by the work map creation system 10 be used by the work machine 4. In other words, the work supported by the work map M1 created by the work map creation system 10 may be work related to the cultivation of crops in the field F1, and is not limited to work performed by the work machine 4. For example, the work map M1 created by the work map creation system 10 may be used for work performed by a person at multiple locations in the field F1, such as work performed by a person while moving around the field F1. An example of this type of work is spraying work (including fertilizing work) in which a person sprays fertilizer or chemicals (pesticides). Work such as spraying may be performed by the work machine 4, but may also be performed by a person. Even when work such as spraying is performed by a person, the work map M1 can be referenced to adjust, for example, the amount of material (fertilizer, chemicals, etc.) to be sprayed. However, in this embodiment, unless otherwise specified, a case will be described in which the work map M1 (work support information D1) used in the work machine 4 is created by the work map creation system 10.

[0017] In this embodiment, the work machine 4 that uses the work map M1 (work support information D1) created by the work map creation system 10 is not included in the components of the work map creation system 10, but the work machine 4 may be included in the components of the work map creation system 10. Also, in this embodiment, the user terminal 3 is included in the components of the work map creation system 10, but it is not essential that the user terminal 3 be included in the components of the work map creation system 10. In other words, the work map creation system 10 may or may not include at least one of the work machine 4 and the user terminal 3 as components. If the work map creation system 10 does not include both the work machine 4 and the user terminal 3 as components, the work map creation system 10 will only include the management server 2 as a component.

[0018] The management server 2 and the user terminal 3 are capable of communicating with each other. In this disclosure, "capable of communication" means that information can be exchanged directly or indirectly via a communication network N1 or a repeater, using an appropriate communication method, such as wired or wireless communication (communication using radio waves or light). The management server 2 and the user terminal 3 can communicate with each other via, for example, the Internet, a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), a public telephone line, a mobile phone network, a packet network, or a wireless LAN. The communication method between the management server 2 and the user terminal 3 is not limited to the above examples and can be realized by any appropriate communication method. Furthermore, the ability of the management server 2 and the user terminal 3 to communicate with each other is not a required component of the task map creation system 10. For example, even if the management server 2 and the user terminal 3 do not have a communication function, offline information exchange is possible by recording information on a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium in the management server 2 and reading the information from the recording medium at the user terminal 3.

[0019] Meanwhile, in this embodiment, as an example, the exchange of information between the user terminal 3 and the work machine 4 is carried out offline rather than by communication. In other words, the user terminal 3 records information on a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium, and the work machine 4 reads the information from the recording medium, making it possible to exchange information offline. Specifically, the data output unit 36 ​​of the user terminal 3, which will be described later, writes work support information D1 (including the work map M1) to a portable recording medium 5 (see FIG. 2) connected to the user terminal 3, and the work machine 4 reads the work support information D1 from this recording medium 5. In this way, the work map M1 (work support information D1) created by the work map creation system 10 can be input to the work machine 4. Furthermore, for example, the user terminal 3 and the work machine 4 may be able to communicate with each other, in which case the exchange of information between the user terminal 3 and the work machine 4 may be carried out by communication.

[0020] In this embodiment, the management server 2 has a core function of the task map creation system 10. In other words, the management server 2 has a function to create (generate) the task map M1 (task support information D1). The user terminal 3 is a communication terminal used by the user. For example, the user can access a website (an example of which is a "task support site") for the task support service provided by the management server 2 on the user terminal 3 and display a screen (webpage) for creating the task map M1 (task support information D1). There may be one user terminal 3, or multiple user terminals 3.

[0021] The work map M1 (work support information D1) created by the work map creation system 10 may be used by one or more work machines 4. When there are multiple work machines 4, these multiple work machines 4 work together to carry out spraying work, for example, spraying a spray material (fertilizer, chemicals, etc.) in one or more fields F1. Furthermore, the multiple work machines 4 using the work map M1 (work support information D1) may include work machines 4 of different types, such as rice transplanters, tractors, and drones.

[0022] [2] Work machinery Next, the configuration of the work machine 4 (a riding rice transplanter in this embodiment) will be described with reference to FIG.

[0023] The work machine 4 has a traveling block 41 that moves within the field F1, and an attachment block 42 that performs work. The traveling block 41 has a power source (engine, motor, etc.), a transmission, a steering device, an operating device, a control device, an actuator, etc. The traveling block 41 is configured to be able to travel within the field F1 using the power generated by the power source. The attachment block 42 is connected (including being mounted or carried) to the traveling block 41, and performs work such as spreading fertilizer (fertilization) and spreading chemicals (pesticide spraying). The attachment block 42 operates, for example, using the power generated by the power source of the traveling block 41.

[0024] In this embodiment, as an example, the work machine 4 operates by automatic driving (autonomous travel). Specifically, the control device of the work machine 4 includes a position detection unit that detects the position (latitude and longitude) of the work machine 4 using a satellite positioning system such as the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS), and an attitude detection unit that detects the attitude of the work machine 4. As an example, the position detection unit detects the position with relatively high accuracy, such as by RKT (Real Time Kinematic) positioning.

[0025] Here, the control device of the work machine 4 includes a computer system having one or more processors and one or more storage memories such as non-volatile memory and RAM (Random Access Memory). The control device is configured to be connectable to a portable recording medium 5, and by connecting the recording medium 5, it is possible to read work support information D1 (including a work map M1) from the recording medium 5. The control device automatically controls the traveling block 41 and the attachment block 42 based on the current position and posture of the work machine 4 and the work map M1 in the work support information D1. This enables the work machine 4 to perform work while autonomously traveling within the field F1 along a travel route in accordance with the work support information D1.

[0026] In particular, in this embodiment, the work machine 4 performs at least the work of spreading fertilizer (fertilizing work). Therefore, the work machine 4 can perform spreading work (fertilizing work) in accordance with the work map M1 by performing spreading work while changing the spread rate for each position in the field F1 in accordance with the spread rate of the spreading material (fertilizer) instructed in the work map M1. In other words, if the spread rate for each position in the field F1 is instructed in the work map M1, the work machine 4 can spread the spreading material (fertilizer) in a distribution in accordance with this instruction. As a result, it is possible to automatically perform spreading work while finely adjusting the spread rate for each position, even within the same field F1.

[0027] However, the work machine 4 is not limited to being configured to operate by automatic driving, and may also be operated by human (operator) operation (including remote operation). In this case, the human operates the work machine 4 according to the work map M1 while looking at the work map M1 displayed on the display of the work machine 4 or the user terminal 3, for example.

[0028] [3] Work Map Next, the task map M1 (task support information D1) created by the task map creation system 10 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0029] As described above, in this embodiment, the work map M1, which is a product of the work map creation system 10, is a type of work support information D1 used in spraying work. Specifically, the work support information D1 includes the work map M1. The work map M1 has multiple sections K (see FIG. 3) and corresponds to the field F1. A work index indicating the amount of sprayed material is set for each of the multiple sections K. A work map M1 used in spraying work in this way, in which the amount of sprayed material is used as the work index for each section K, is also referred to as a "spraying map." In particular, a work map M1 used in fertilization work, in which fertilizer is spread as the spray material, as in this embodiment, in which the work index for each section K is the amount of fertilizer spread (fertilizer amount) is also referred to as a "fertilization map."

[0030] In other words, the work map M1 as the work support information D1 includes a spraying map in which the amount of sprayed material at each position corresponding to multiple sections K in the field F1 is used as a work index. Furthermore, the work map M1 includes a fertilization map in which the amount of fertilizer applied at each position corresponding to multiple sections K in the field F1, i.e., the amount of fertilizer applied, is used as a work index. In this embodiment, as an example, the spraying amount as a work index is described as the amount of sprayed material (fertilizer) applied per unit area. In other words, the spraying amount as a work index is not the total amount of sprayed material (fertilizer) applied to each section K, but the average amount (average value) of the sprayed material in each section K. As an example, if the unit area is "10a" and the amount of sprayed material (fertilizer) is expressed in weight (kg), the unit of the spraying amount as a work index is "kg / 10a." However, the work index may be any representative value for each section K, and is not limited to an average value such as the amount sprayed per unit area, but may also be a representative value such as a total value, median, mode, maximum value, or minimum value for each section K. As an example, the amount sprayed as a work index may be the total amount (total value) of the sprayed material (fertilizer) sprayed on each section K.

[0031] More specifically, the multiple plots K in the work map M1 are not set in the field F1 itself, but in the work area A1 (see Figure 3) corresponding to the field F1. The work map M1 is data in which work indices such as spraying rates (fertilizer amounts) are assigned to each of the multiple plots K set in the work area A1 in this way. The "work area" referred to in this disclosure is a two-dimensional area set in virtual space corresponding to the field F1, and is used to create the work map M1. In other words, the work area A1 is an area set in virtual space for creating the work map M1, corresponding to the field F1 that exists in real space.

[0032] Therefore, in this disclosure, a "section" refers to an individual area in the virtual space after dividing the work area A1 in the virtual space into multiple sections. Each of the multiple sections K is an area of ​​a predetermined shape, such as a square. The work map creation system 10 according to this embodiment creates a work map M1 by setting a work area A1 in the virtual space, setting multiple sections K in the work area A1, and further assigning (associating) work indices (fertilizer amounts) to the multiple sections K.

[0033] As an example, the work map M1 is created by dividing the entire work area A1 into a plurality of sections K in a mesh pattern and assigning a work index to each section K, as shown in Figure 3. Figure 3 schematically shows the state in which the work area A1 is divided into a plurality of sections K. For example, each section K is a square area measuring 5m x 5m in actual size in the corresponding field F1. However, there are no particular restrictions on the shape and size of each section K. On the left side of Figure 3, coordinate information (section number) for the X coordinate (X axis) and Y coordinate (Y axis) is provided as identification information for each section K.

[0034] More specifically, the work map M1 is map data that includes information such as a corresponding "section number" and "work index" for each section K in the work area A1. The section number is identification information for the section K. As a result, the work index (spraying amount) is registered for each section K. Such a work map M1 is visualized, for example, by being displayed on a user terminal 3, as shown on the right side of FIG. 3. In the example of FIG. 3, the work map M1 uses, for example, multi-tone gray shades (grayscale) or colors associated with the work index. In this example, for each section K, the lighter the color, the smaller the spraying amount, and the darker the color, the larger the spraying amount. Furthermore, the greater the number of sections K (number of divisions) in the work area A1, the higher the resolution of the work map M1. The "numerical value" of the work index may or may not be displayed for each section K in the work map M1.

[0035] The work map M1 described above represents the distribution of work indices in the work area A1, and therefore represents the distribution of the application rates (fertilizer amounts) of the sprayed material (fertilizer) throughout the entire field F1 corresponding to this work area A1. In other words, by carrying out spraying work in accordance with the work map M1, the application rates of the sprayed material within the field F1 can be adjusted for each position corresponding to each section K. This makes it possible to reflect the distribution of work indices in the work map M1 in the distribution of the application rates (fertilizer amounts) of the sprayed material (fertilizer) for the actual field F1.

[0036] However, the work for which the work map M1 is used is not limited to spraying work (including fertilizing work). Therefore, the work map M1 can be generalized as data corresponding to the field F1, having multiple sections K, each of which has a work index set. Here, the work index is some kind of index (value) related to the work at each position corresponding to each section K in the field F1, such as the amount of resources used in the work, time, man-hours, various setting values ​​of the work machine 4, etc. In this embodiment, the work shown on the work map M1 is the work of spraying a spray material, so the amount of sprayed material, more specifically the amount of fertilizer applied, i.e., the amount of fertilizer applied, at each position corresponding to each section K in the field becomes the "work index."

[0037] [4] Management Server Next, the configuration of the management server 2 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 1. The management server 2 is a server including an information processing unit 1, a data storage unit 21, an operation reception unit 22, and a (server-side) communication unit 23. The management server 2 is not limited to a single computer, but may be a computer system in which multiple computers operate in cooperation. Furthermore, the various processes executed by the management server 2 may be distributed and executed by multiple processors.

[0038] The data storage unit 21 includes a non-volatile storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or SSD (Solid State Drive) that stores various types of information. The data storage unit 21 stores (memorizes) control programs such as a task map generation program that causes the information processing unit 1 to execute a method for generating a task map M1, which will be described later. The task map generation program is provided, for example, by being recorded on a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium, and is read from the non-transitory recording medium by a reading device of the management server 2 and stored in the data storage unit 21. The task map generation program may also be provided (downloaded) to the management server 2 from a server other than the management server 2 via a telecommunications line (communications network N1) and stored in the data storage unit 21.

[0039] The data storage unit 21 also includes a work support information storage unit 211 and an acquired information storage unit 212. The work support information storage unit 211 stores work support information D1 including a work map M1. In other words, the work support information D1 (including the work map M1) created (generated) by the work map creation system 10 is stored in the work support information storage unit 211. The acquired information storage unit 212 stores various information acquired by the information acquisition unit 13, which will be described later.

[0040] The operation acceptance unit 22 accepts user operations. Specifically, since the management server 2 can communicate with the user terminal 3, the operation acceptance unit 22 indirectly accepts user operations by transmitting an operation signal from the user terminal 3 in response to the user's operation on an operation unit 34 of the user terminal 3 (described later). In other words, when a user operates the user terminal 3, an operation signal in response to the user's operation is generated in the user terminal 3, and the operation signal is transmitted from the user terminal 3 to the management server 2. Therefore, the operation acceptance unit 22 can accept user operations by the operation signal received by the management server 2 from the user terminal 3. Furthermore, the operation acceptance unit 22 is not limited to user operations on the operation unit 34 of the user terminal 3, and may also accept operations by a user (such as an administrator of the management server 2) on an operation unit other than the user terminal 3. In this case, the operation unit is realized, for example, by a touch panel, a mouse, a keyboard, or the like provided in the management server 2 or associated with the management server 2.

[0041] The communication unit 23 is a communication interface having a function of communicating with external devices such as the user terminal 3. Specifically, the communication unit 23 connects the management server 2 to the communication network N1 by wire or wirelessly, and executes data communication with one or more user terminals 3 or the like via the communication network N1 in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0042] The information processing unit 1 is a computer system having one or more processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and one or more memories such as a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM, and executes various processes (information processing). The information processing unit 1 has functional units such as a designation unit 11, a creation processing unit 12, an information acquisition unit 13, a reference information designation unit 14, a correction calculation unit 15, a presentation processing unit 16, a calculation unit 17, and a restriction unit 18. These multiple functional units included in the information processing unit 1 may be distributed across multiple housings or may be provided in a single housing.

[0043] The designation unit 11 executes a designation process to designate a field F1 as a target field. In the present disclosure, the "target field" refers to a field F1 among the fields F1 for which a work map M1 is to be created. In other words, the work map creation system 10 creates a work map M1 for the field F1 designated as the target field by the designation unit 11. In the present disclosure, "designation" includes not only arbitrary designation by a person, but also automatic designation, such as when a default value is set. In this embodiment, the designation of the field F1 as the target field by the designation unit 11 is arbitrary designation by a person, and is particularly performed in response to a user (person) operation on the user terminal 3. Specifically, the designation unit 11 designates one of the fields F1 as the target field in accordance with a user operation on the user terminal 3 received by the operation reception unit 22.

[0044] The creation processing unit 12 executes a creation process to create work support information D1. Because the work support information D1 includes a work map M1, the creation processing unit 12 creates the work map M1 for the field F1 designated as the target field in accordance with the mapping conditions. The "mapping conditions" referred to here are conditions (rules) established when creating the work map M1, and are, for example, included in the work map generation program and stored in advance in the data storage unit 21. As will be described in more detail below, examples of mapping conditions include creating the work map M1 based on the amount of sprayed product calculated by the calculation unit 17, and creating the work map M1 based on a reference map M2 (see FIG. 15).

[0045] The creation processing unit 12 can automatically create a work map M1 by following these mapping conditions. Specifically, the creation processing unit 12 sets a work area A1 corresponding to the target field, divides the entire work area A1 into a plurality of mesh-like sections K in accordance with the mapping conditions, and creates the work map M1 by assigning information such as a "section number" and a "work index" to each section K. The creation processing unit 12 then stores work support information D1 including the created work map M1 in the work support information storage unit 211 of the data storage unit 21.

[0046] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the creation processing unit 12 has multiple modes, including a new creation mode and a correction mode, and can switch between these modes in accordance with user operations. In the new creation mode, the creation processing unit 12 creates new work support information D1 (work map M1) for the field F1 designated as the target field. On the other hand, in the correction mode, the creation processing unit 12 re-creates the work support information D1 by making corrections to the work support information D1 created in the new creation mode. In other words, in this disclosure, the "creation" of work support information D1 (work map M1) also includes the creation of new work support information D1 (work map M1) by correcting existing work support information D1 (work map M1). However, in this embodiment, the creation of the work map M1 in accordance with the mapping conditions is executed only in the new creation mode, and in the correction mode, the work map M1 is created in accordance with the user's correction operations.

[0047] In short, in this embodiment, the operation reception unit 22 receives a user's correction operation on the work map M1 created by the creation processing unit 12. The creation processing unit 12 corrects the work index in accordance with the correction operation and recreates the work map M1. As an example, while the work map M1 created by the creation processing unit 12 is displayed on the user terminal 3, the operation reception unit 22 receives a user's correction operation on the work map M1.

[0048] More specifically, in this embodiment, the creation processing unit 12 has a condition determination unit 121, a new creation unit 122, and a correction processing unit 123. In other words, the work map creation system 10 according to this embodiment is equipped with the condition determination unit 121, the new creation unit 122, and the correction processing unit 123. The condition determination unit 121 determines mapping conditions. The new creation unit 122 creates work support information D1 (work map M1) in new creation mode. The correction processing unit 123 creates work support information D1 (work map M1) in correction mode.

[0049] Incidentally, there is a related technology that creates a work map M1, such as a spray map, corresponding to a field F1 based on an agricultural map such as a yield map. However, in the configuration of the related technology, when one field F1 is selected, a work map M1 is created for that one field F1. Therefore, when creating work maps M1 for multiple fields F1, the user must repeat the procedure, including selecting (designating) the field F1 and creating the work map M1, as many times as there are fields F1, which can be a significant burden when there are a large number of fields F1.

[0050] In contrast to this, the task map creation system 10 according to this embodiment has the following configuration, making it possible to reduce the burden on the user involved in creating the task map M1.

[0051] That is, in this embodiment, the designation unit 11 is configured to be able to designate two or more fields F1 as target fields. In other words, the designation unit 11 can not only designate one field F1 as the target field, but can also designate two or more fields F1 as target fields. When two or more fields F1 are designated, the target field includes these two or more fields F1. The creation processing unit 12 then creates work maps M1 corresponding to the two or more fields F1 designated as target fields in accordance with the mapping conditions. Each work map M1 has multiple sections K, each of which is assigned a work index. Basically, one work map M1 is created for one field F1, so the same number of work maps M1 as the number of fields F1 designated as target fields are created in one go. In other words, for example, if two fields F1 are designated as target fields, two work maps M1 are created in bulk, and if five fields F1 are designated as target fields, two work maps M1 are created in bulk.

[0052] In this disclosure, "creating in a lump sum" means creating at the same time, or creating in a lump sum even if not simultaneously. As an example, when two fields F1 are designated as target fields, if the two fields F1 are designated together and a work map M1 is created for the two fields F1 without re-designating the fields F1, the work map M1 is considered to be "created in a lump sum." In contrast, when two or more fields F1 are designated as target fields and a work map M1 is created by designating each field F1 one by one, the work map M1 is not considered to be "created in a lump sum." In other words, when the work map M1 is "created in a lump sum," work maps M1 are created for all of the target fields without re-designating the target fields, when two or more fields F1 are designated together as target fields.

[0053] According to the above configuration, even when creating work maps M1 for two or more fields F1, it is possible to collectively designate these two or more fields F1 as target fields and create work maps M1 for these two or more fields F1 all at once. Therefore, the user does not need to repeat the procedure of selecting (designating) a field F1 and creating a work map M1 for each field F1. As a result, the work map creation system 10 according to this embodiment can reduce the burden on the user involved in creating the work map M1. In particular, in recent years, there has been an increasing number of cases in which the same user manages dozens or even hundreds of fields F1, and for such users, a significant reduction in the burden involved in creating the work map M1 can be expected.

[0054] The information acquisition unit 13 executes an acquisition process to acquire various pieces of information. The information acquisition unit 13 acquires various pieces of information from inside the management server 2 or from outside the management server 2. When acquiring information from inside the management server 2, the information acquisition unit 13 acquires, for example, information specified by a user's operation on the user terminal 3, which is accepted by the operation acceptance unit 22, from the operation acceptance unit 22. This allows a person (user) to arbitrarily input the information acquired by the information acquisition unit 13. When acquiring information from outside the management server 2, the information acquisition unit 13 acquires information using, for example, communication via the communication unit 23. In this case, the information acquisition unit 13 can reference predetermined information from a database or the like external to the management server 2. The information acquisition unit 13 stores the acquired various pieces of information in the acquired information storage unit 212 of the data storage unit 21.

[0055] More specifically, in this embodiment, the information acquisition unit 13 has a reference information acquisition unit 131, a type acquisition unit 132, a specific amount acquisition unit 133, a spray amount acquisition unit 134, and a work method acquisition unit 135. In other words, the work map creation system 10 according to this embodiment has the reference information acquisition unit 131, the type acquisition unit 132, the specific amount acquisition unit 133, the spray amount acquisition unit 134, and the work method acquisition unit 135.

[0056] The reference information acquisition unit 131 acquires reference information. The reference information is information that the creation processing unit 12 uses as a reference when creating work support information D1 (work map M1), and includes, for example, a reference map M2. In other words, if the mapping conditions stipulate that the work map M1 be created based on the reference map M2, the creation processing unit 12 creates the work map M1 based on the reference map M2 acquired by the reference information acquisition unit 131. In this embodiment, the reference information is acquired from outside the management server 2.

[0057] The type acquisition unit 132 acquires type information. Type information is information relating to the type of material used in the spraying work on the field F1. In this embodiment, the spraying work is fertilization work, and the material to be sprayed includes fertilizer. Therefore, type information is information relating to the type of fertilizer. Type information includes, for example, information for identifying the fertilizer, such as the fertilizer name, the content of specific components in the material to be sprayed (fertilizer), and the weight of the material to be sprayed (fertilizer) per bag. In this embodiment, type information is acquired from within the management server 2.

[0058] The specific amount acquisition unit 133 acquires specific amount information. The specific amount information is information related to the specific amount, which is the amount per unit area of ​​the field F1 of a specific component of the sprayed material. The "specific component" here refers to one or more components among the one or more components contained in the sprayed material, and is basically a component that is expected to have an effect on the field F1 as the main component of the sprayed material when sprayed on the field F1. In this embodiment, the sprayed material is fertilizer, so as an example, the specific component includes nitrogen. The amount per unit area (sprayed amount) of such a specific component is the "specific amount," and specific amount information related to this specific amount is acquired by the specific amount acquisition unit 133. In this embodiment, the specific amount information is acquired from within the management server 2.

[0059] The spray amount acquisition unit 134 acquires spray amount information. The spray amount information is information relating to the amount of spray material per unit area of ​​the field F1. In this embodiment, the spray material is fertilizer, so the spray amount method is information relating to the amount of fertilizer to be sprayed per unit area of ​​the field F1, i.e., the fertilizer amount. As an example, the spray amount information includes a standard fertilizer amount. The "standard fertilizer amount" here refers to the standard fertilizer amount per unit area specified for a certain field F1. In this embodiment, the spray amount information is acquired from within the management server 2.

[0060] The work method acquisition unit 135 acquires work method information. The work method information is information related to the method of spraying work in the field F1. In the present disclosure, the "spraying work method" includes the type of spraying work, the procedure, the timing (including the season, etc.), the type of work machine 4 to be used, and the like. In this embodiment, the spraying work is fertilization work, so the spraying work method includes basal fertilization and top dressing. Therefore, the work method information includes information specifying whether the spraying work (fertilization work) is "basal fertilization" or "top dressing." Furthermore, "basal fertilization" includes "full-layer fertilization" and "side stripe fertilization." In other words, the work method information includes, for example, information for distinguishing between "basal fertilization" and "top dressing," and, in the case of "basal fertilization," information for distinguishing between "full-layer fertilization" and "side stripe fertilization." In this embodiment, the work method information is acquired from within the management server 2.

[0061] The reference information designation unit 14 executes a reference information designation process for designating reference information such as a reference map M2 corresponding to the field F1. In other words, if the mapping conditions stipulate that the work map M1 be created based on the reference map M2, the creation processing unit 12 creates the work map M1 based on the reference map M2 designated by the reference information designation unit 14. In this embodiment, the designation of reference information by the reference information designation unit 14 is an arbitrary designation by a person, and in particular, is performed in response to an operation by the user (person) on the user terminal 3. Specifically, the reference information designation unit 14 designates the reference map M2 to be used as reference information in accordance with an operation by the user on the user terminal 3, which is received by the operation receiving unit 22.

[0062] The correction calculation unit 15 executes a correction calculation process to calculate the total amount of resources required for work in the field F1 based on the corrected work map M1. In this disclosure, "total resource amount" refers to the total amount of specific resources required for the work. In this embodiment, the work in the field F1 for which the work map M1 is used is spraying work, particularly fertilization work. Therefore, the "total resource amount" is, for example, the total amount of fertilizer to be applied, that is, the amount of fertilizer (amount of fertilizer) required for fertilization work in the entire field F1 corresponding to the work map M1. In other words, if the creation processing unit 12 corrects the work support information D1 created in new creation mode in correction mode, the total amount of resources required for work based on the corrected work map M1 will change. The correction calculation unit 15 recalculates the total resource amount after this change (i.e., after correction) due to the correction.

[0063] The presentation processing unit 16 executes a presentation process to present various information to the user. In this embodiment, the presentation processing unit 16 is configured to be able to present at least the total resource amount to the user. That is, when the correction time calculation unit 15 calculates the corrected total resource amount, the presentation processing unit 16 can present this total resource amount to the user.

[0064] More specifically, the presentation processing unit 16 has a display processing unit 161. The display processing unit 161 executes processing to display various information, including the revised total resource amount. In this embodiment, the display processing unit 161 generates various screens, such as a result list screen P1 (see FIG. 5) and a field setting screen P2 (see FIG. 6), and displays these screens, for example, on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3. In the present disclosure, the "screen" of the result list screen P1 or the like refers to a video (image) displayed on the display unit, and includes icons, figures, photographs, text, videos, and the like. Therefore, the information processing unit 1 can display or transmit a task map M1 or the like stored in the data storage unit 21 in response to, for example, a user's operation on the operation receiving unit 22.

[0065] Calculation unit 17 executes a calculation process to calculate the amount of sprayed material from the specific amount based on the type information. That is, calculation unit 17 calculates the amount of sprayed material from the specific amount represented by the specific amount information acquired by specific amount acquisition unit 133 based on the type information acquired by type acquisition unit 132. Specifically, calculation unit 17 uses the content rate of the specific component in the sprayed material (fertilizer) included in the type information to calculate the amount of sprayed material for the entirety from the specific amount, which is the amount (sprayed amount) of the specific component per unit area.

[0066] Related technology involves dividing a field F1 into multiple areas, displaying a mesh-type yield map in which harvest data is assigned to each area, and displaying a spray input section on the same screen as the yield map for inputting the spray rate for each area. This allows a user to create a work map M1 (spray map) while viewing the yield map. However, in the related technology, when a user inputs the spray rate for each area, they input the weight of the sprayed material. However, some users may need to calculate the weight of the sprayed material one by one. As a result, creating work support information D1 such as the work map M1 can be a significant burden. For example, when the sprayed material is fertilizer, some users may focus on specific components of the fertilizer for each crop and determine the spray rate based on the weight of the specific component. For such users, inputting the spray rate is extremely tedious, and creating work support information D1 can be a significant burden.

[0067] In contrast to this, the task map creation system 10 (task support information creation system) according to this embodiment has the following configuration, making it possible to reduce the burden on a wide range of users involved in creating task support information D1.

[0068] That is, in this embodiment, the creation processing unit 12 creates work support information D1 based on the amount of sprayed material calculated by the calculation unit 17. In other words, the creation processing unit 12 can create work support information D1 by using the spray amount calculated by the calculation unit 17 from the specific amount information acquired by the specific amount acquisition unit 133, without directly using the spray amount information related to the amount of sprayed material per unit area of ​​the field F1.

[0069] With the above configuration, even a user who, for example, focuses on a specific component of fertilizer for each crop and determines the application rate based on the weight of that component can relatively easily create work support information D1. In other words, such a user simply inputs a "specific amount," which is the amount of the specific component of fertilizer per unit area of ​​the field F1, instead of the application rate (fertilizer amount) of the fertilizer. Therefore, some users can input the information required to create the work support information D1 by inputting the specific amount of the specific component rather than directly inputting the application rate of the fertilizer. As a result, even a user who, for example, focuses on a specific component of fertilizer and determines the application rate based on the weight of the fertilizer does not need to calculate the weight of the fertilizer one by one, significantly reducing the burden associated with creating work support information D1, such as the work map M1. Therefore, the work map creation system 10 (work support information creation system) according to this embodiment can reduce the burden associated with creating work support information D1 for a wide range of users.

[0070] Furthermore, when creating the work support information D1, the limiting unit 18 performs a limiting process to limit the input setting value entered for the amount of sprayed material. In other words, in this embodiment, the creation processing unit 12 creates the work support information D1 based on the amount of sprayed material, and the input setting value entered for this amount may be limited by the limiting unit 18. The work support information D1 is information that supports spraying work. In this disclosure, "limiting" includes both active restrictions that actively limit the input of an input setting value and passive restrictions that passively limit the input of an input setting value. Active restrictions are implemented, for example, by disabling the input of an input setting value or prohibiting transition to options, screens, etc. for entering an input setting value. Passive restrictions are implemented, for example, by displaying a warning message such as "The upper limit is 100 kg / 10 a" when entering an input setting value. In this embodiment, the input setting value is limited by limiting at least one of the upper limit, lower limit, and range.

[0071] In the configuration of the related art described above, the amount of spraying for each area is set freely by the user or automatically according to an agricultural map, but an inappropriate amount may be set depending on the method of spraying. For example, when the sprayed material is fertilizer, the appropriate amount varies greatly depending on whether the method of spraying (fertilization method) is base fertilizer or top dressing, and an inappropriate amount may be set due to an error in determining the appropriate amount of spraying according to the method of spraying.

[0072] In contrast to this, the work map creation system 10 (work support information creation system) according to this embodiment has the following configuration, which makes it easier to appropriately set the amount of scattering material to be scattered.

[0073] That is, in this embodiment, when creating the work support information D1, the limiting unit 18 limits the input setting value entered for the amount of scattering material based on the work method information. In short, when the limiting unit 18 limits the value (input setting value) entered for the amount of scattering material, it does so based on the work method information acquired by the work method acquisition unit 135. Furthermore, the timing at which the limiting unit 18 limits the input setting value is when the work support information D1 is created, and therefore can include when the creation processing unit 12 creates the work map M1 in new creation mode or when it creates the work map M1 in correction mode.

[0074] According to the above configuration, the limiting unit 18 can limit the input setting value so that an appropriate spray amount according to the spraying method can be easily input. For example, if the spraying material is fertilizer, the appropriate spray amount varies greatly depending on whether the spraying method (fertilization method) is base fertilizer or top dressing. Therefore, the limiting unit 18 limits the input setting value based on work method information regarding the spraying method. As a result, even if the user makes an error in determining the appropriate spray amount according to the spraying method, the limiting unit 18 limits the input of an incorrect spray amount, making it easier to set an appropriate spray amount. Therefore, the work map creation system 10 (work support information creation system) according to this embodiment makes it easier to set an appropriate spray amount for the spraying material.

[0075] The information processing unit 1 functions as the various functional units (processing units) by executing various processes according to the work map generation program using a CPU (Central Processing Unit). At least some of the various functional units in the information processing unit 1 may be configured with electronic circuits. Furthermore, the work map generation program may be a program for causing multiple processors to function as functional units. The operation of each functional unit will be explained in detail in the section "[6] Work Map Generation Method."

[0076] [5] User terminal Next, the configuration of the user terminal 3 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 1. The user terminal 3 includes a control unit 31, a storage unit 32, a display unit 33, an operation unit 34, a communication unit 35, and a data output unit 36. The user terminal 3 is, for example, an information processing device (communication terminal) such as a personal computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or a mobile phone.

[0077] The storage unit 32 is a non-volatile storage unit such as an HDD, SSD, or flash memory that stores various types of information. For example, the storage unit 32 stores a control program such as a browser program. Specifically, the browser program is a control program that causes the control unit 31 to execute communication processing with an external device such as the management server 2 in accordance with a communication protocol such as HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol). The control program may also be a dedicated application for executing communication processing with the management server 2 in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0078] The display unit 33 is a user interface for outputting (presenting) information to the user, such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display that displays various types of information. The display unit 33 presents various types of information to the user by displaying them, for example. In particular, in this embodiment, the user terminal 3 has a browser function, and the display unit 33 can display information such as various web pages.

[0079] The operation unit 34 is a user interface, such as a touch panel, a mouse, or a keyboard, for accepting operation inputs by the user. The operation unit 34 accepts various operations by the user, for example, by outputting electrical signals in response to the user's operations. In particular, in this embodiment, the user terminal 3 has a browser function, and the operation unit 34 can accept various operations on a web page displayed on the display unit 33.

[0080] The communication unit 35 is a communication interface having a function of communicating with external devices such as the management server 2. Specifically, the communication unit 35 connects the user terminal 3 to the communication network N1 by wire or wirelessly, and executes data communication with the management server 2 or the like via the communication network N1 in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol.

[0081] The data output unit 36 ​​is an interface for outputting data to an external device of the user terminal 3. The data output unit 36 ​​is configured to be able to output at least the work support information D1 (including the work map M1) in a format that can be input to the work machine 4. As an example, the data output unit 36 ​​includes a USB connector for removably connecting a recording medium 5 made of a USB memory, and writes data (work support information D1, etc.) to the recording medium 5 while the recording medium 5 is connected.

[0082] The control unit 31 is a computer system having one or more processors such as a CPU, and one or more memories such as a ROM and a RAM. The CPU is a processor that executes various types of arithmetic processing. The ROM is a non-volatile memory that stores control programs such as a BIOS (Basic Input Output System) and an OS (Operating System) that cause the CPU to execute various processes. The RAM is a volatile or non-volatile memory that stores various types of information, and is used as a temporary storage memory (work area) for the various processes executed by the CPU. The control unit 31 controls the user terminal 3 by having the CPU execute various control programs that are stored in the ROM or the memory unit 32.

[0083] Specifically, the control unit 31 functions as a browser processing unit 311 by executing various processes in accordance with a browser program stored in the storage unit 32. The browser processing unit 311 can execute browser processing to display a web page provided from the management server 2 via the communication network N1 on the display unit 33 and input operations to the operation unit 34 into the management server 2. In other words, the user terminal 3 can function as an operation terminal (user interface) for the management server 2 by the control unit 31 executing the browser program.

[0084] More specifically, the user terminal 3 starts the following operation when a user performs an operation to request access to a predetermined URL corresponding to a website (work support site) of the work support service provided by the management server 2. That is, when the above operation is performed, the user terminal 3 uses the control unit 31 to obtain webpage data of the work support site from the management server 2. At this time, for example, when the user issues an instruction to display various screens (such as a result list screen P1 and a field setting screen P2) on the work support site displayed on the user terminal 3, the user terminal 3 displays the various instructed screens on the display unit 33. The various screens can be displayed on the user terminal 3 by logging in to the work support site using the user terminal 3.

[0085] Here, the operation for requesting access to the predetermined URL is realized by, for example, the user selecting from a list of pre-registered websites, entering text, etc. Furthermore, if a dedicated application corresponding to the management server 2 is installed in the user terminal 3, the user can launch the dedicated application to request access to the predetermined URL, and the work support site will be displayed on the display unit 33.

[0086] As long as the user terminal 3 can communicate with the management server 2, the user can use the work support site on the user terminal 3 from anywhere, and can create, check, and output (write to the recording medium 5) work support information D1 (work map M1).

[0087] Here, the user who uses the user terminal 3 may or may not be the same person as the operator who operates (drives) the work machine 4. Furthermore, with regard to the user who uses the user terminal 3, for example, a single user may be set for one field F1, such as the owner of the field F1, or multiple users may be set for one field F1. In the latter case, for example, even for one field F1, it is possible to set a different user for each task. Furthermore, a user may be either an individual or a corporation, or may be an association (organization) consisting of a collection of multiple individuals or corporations. Furthermore, one user terminal 3 may be provided for one user, one for multiple users, or multiple user terminals may be provided for one user. When one user terminal 3 is provided for multiple users, each of the multiple users can be identified, for example, by a user ID or the like.

[0088] [6] How to generate a work map 4 to 18, an example of a method for generating the work map M1, which is executed mainly by the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2, will be described below. Unless otherwise specified, a fertilization map used for fertilizer spreading work (i.e., fertilization work) in the field F1 will be described as an example of a product (work map M1) produced by the method for generating the work map M1.

[0089] Furthermore, the method for generating the task map M1 according to this embodiment is executed by the information processing unit 1, which is primarily a computer system, and is therefore embodied in a task map generation program. In other words, the task map generation program according to this embodiment is a computer program for causing one or more processors to execute each process related to the method for generating the task map M1. This task map generation program may be executed, for example, by the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 and the control unit 31 of the user terminal 3 in cooperation with each other.

[0090] Here, the task map creation system 10 executes the following various processes related to the method for generating the task map M1 when a specific, preset start operation for executing the task map generation program is performed on the user terminal 3. The start operation includes, for example, connecting the user terminal 3 to the management server 2 (launching application software) and logging in to the task support site, which involves entering a user ID and password. On the other hand, the task map creation system 10 terminates the following various processes related to the method for generating the task map M1 when a specific, preset end operation is performed on the user terminal 3. The end operation includes, for example, logging out and disconnecting the connection between the management server 2 and the user terminal 3.

[0091] Furthermore, the method of generating the work map M1 basically involves the display processing unit 161 displaying various screens on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3. The main screens displayed on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3 include a result list screen P1, a field setting screen P2, a parameter setting screen P3 (see FIG. 8), a result confirmation screen P4 (see FIG. 11), a result comparison screen P5 (see FIG. 15), a result correction screen P6 (see FIG. 16), and an output screen P7 (see FIG. 18). As an example, in this embodiment, the display processing unit 161 sets the result list screen P1 as the home screen, as shown in FIG. 4, and transitions the screen displayed on the display unit 33 to another screen in response to a user operation.

[0092] That is, as shown in FIG. 4, in response to a start operation, a result list screen P1, which is a home screen, is first displayed on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3. Then, when the New button B11 on the result list screen P1 is operated, the result list screen P1 transitions to a field setting screen P2. Furthermore, when the Parameter Setting button B21 on the field setting screen P2 is operated, the field setting screen P2 transitions to a parameter setting screen P3. On the other hand, when the Result Confirmation button B12 on the result list screen P1 is operated, the result list screen P1 transitions to a result confirmation screen P4. Furthermore, when the Compare button B41 on the result confirmation screen P4 is operated, the result confirmation screen P4 transitions to a result comparison screen P5. Furthermore, when the Modify button B42 on the result confirmation screen P4 is operated, the result confirmation screen P4 transitions to a result modification screen P6. Furthermore, when the Output button B13 on the result list screen P1 is operated, the result list screen P1 transitions to an output screen P7. Then, when the write button B71 on the output screen P7 is operated, the work support information D1 (work map M1) is written to the recording medium 5 in a format that can be read by the work machine 4.

[0093] A "button" on the screen, such as the new creation button B11, is an object included in the screen displayed on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3, and operating the button means an operation on the operation unit 34 of the user terminal 3, such as selecting the button. For example, the user can operate the new creation button B11 by performing an operation on the operation unit 34, such as placing the cursor on the new creation button B11 on the result list screen P1 and clicking it, or by touching the new creation button B11 on the result list screen P1. Also, in drawings showing screens displayed on the display unit 33, such as FIG. 5, the dashed lines, leader lines, and reference symbols representing areas are added merely for the purpose of explanation and are not actually displayed on the display unit 33.

[0094] [6.1] Results list screen First, the result list screen P1, which is the home screen, will be described. The result list screen P1 is a screen that displays a list of simulation results. In this embodiment, the creation of the work map M1 is also called a "simulation." In other words, the result list screen P1 displays, as simulation results, a list of work maps M1 created (generated) using the work map M1 generation method. However, in this embodiment, the creation processing unit 12 is capable of creating work maps M1 for two or more fields F1 at once, as described above, and therefore two or more work maps M1 corresponding to these two or more fields F1 may be included in a single simulation result.

[0095] The result list screen P1 includes a list display area R11 and an operation area R12, as shown in Fig. 5. The list display area R11 displays a list of the simulation results, that is, information related to the created task map M1.

[0096] Specifically, the list display area R11, for example, displays multiple simulation results arranged vertically (top to bottom) so that each row corresponds to an individual simulation result (task map M1). The list display area R11 is divided horizontally (left to right) into multiple items, and information about each simulation result is displayed in multiple items. In the example of FIG. 5, from left to right, the following items are displayed: selection checkbox, identification number, year, group name, simulation name, fertilization method, total fertilizer amount, implementation date, and status. The selection checkbox is used to select a simulation result when outputting (writing to recording medium 5) or deleting it. As an example, the crop variety is entered as the group name. The status item displays the current status of the simulation results.

[0097] In the example of FIG. 5, the status is displayed as text: "Calculating," "Check Results," or "Edit Results." "Calculating" indicates a state in which a simulation calculation to create the work map M1 is being performed. "Check Results" indicates a state in which the simulation calculation to create the work map M1 has been completed and the work map M1 can be checked as a simulation result. "Edit Results" indicates a state in which the work map M1 has been edited, i.e., the work map M1 has been re-created. Here, states other than "Calculating," i.e., "Check Results" and "Edit Results," are also used as objects for the operable result confirmation button B12. Furthermore, "Check Results" may be further divided into two states, for example, by the display color of the object (the result confirmation button B12): one color (e.g., red) indicates an unconfirmed state, and the other color (e.g., green) indicates a confirmed state. A slide bar or cursor may be displayed in the list display area R11, allowing the contents of the list display area R11 to be scrolled vertically or horizontally.

[0098] The operation area R12 displays, for example, an input field for searching the simulation results (task map M1) displayed in the list display area R11 using various search conditions. Furthermore, the operation area R12 displays multiple buttons that can be operated by the user, such as a New button B11, an Output button B13, a Search button B14, and a Delete button B15. Specifically, search conditions such as the fiscal year, fertilization method, and implementation date can be entered in the input fields. When the Search button B14 is operated with these search conditions entered, simulation results that satisfy the search conditions are displayed in the list display area R11. Regarding the implementation date, for example, the start (start date of the implementation period) and end (end date of the implementation period) of the implementation period can be entered so that the implementation period of the simulation can be specified as a search condition. Here, the information processing unit 1 searches the work support information storage unit 211 of the data storage unit 21 for simulation results to be displayed in the list display area R11. The Delete button B15 is a button for deleting a simulation result selected by a check box from among the simulation results displayed in the list display area R11.

[0099] [6.2] Designation processing Next, we will explain the "designation process" for designating the field F1 as the target field for creating the work map M1. The designation process is executed when the creation processing unit 12 creates a new work map M1 in new creation mode.

[0100] In the designation process, the display processing unit 161 displays the field setting screen P2 on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3. That is, when the new creation button B11 is operated on the result list screen P1, the designation process starts, and the screen displayed on the display unit 33 transitions from the result list screen P1 to the field setting screen P2.

[0101] The field setting screen P2 is a screen for specifying a field F1 as a target field. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which a field F1 is specified as a target field from a plurality of registered fields that are registered in advance in association with a user. There are two methods for registering a registered field: automatic registration, in which the field F1 is automatically identified (extracted) and registered, for example, from operation information (including the travel route) of the work machine 4, and manual registration, in which the user manually selects and registers the field F1 on a map or the like. In either method, the registered field is registered by storing information about the field F1, for example, in the data storage unit 21. Specifically, field identification information for identifying the field F1, such as the field name and address, and information specifying the position, shape, size, etc. of the field F1, such as coordinate information about the outline of the field F1, are stored in the data storage unit 21 as information about the registered field. The coordinate information is expressed, for example, by latitude and longitude.

[0102] Furthermore, work information related to work performed in the field F1 as a registered field is stored in association with the registered field. The work information includes, for example, the type of work (including sowing, transplanting, fertilizing, harvesting, etc.), operation information (including travel route) of the work machine 4 used in the work, work time, work efficiency (area / work time), fertilizer amount, planting depth, soil characteristics (including soil hardness and hard pan depth, etc.), tillage depth, and lift angle. Furthermore, information on the results of the work, such as the harvest volume (yield) of the crops grown in the field F1, the taste of the crops (including protein content or moisture content, etc.), and the growth status of the crops, is also stored in association with the registered field as work information. Various performance maps, such as a yield map, a taste map, a growth map, a soil map, and a performance fertilization map, generated based on this work information, are also stored in association with the registered field as work information.

[0103] The yield map is map data in which the yield (average harvest per unit area, etc.) for each area is assigned when the field F1 is divided into multiple areas. The taste map is map data in which the taste, such as protein content or moisture content, for each area is assigned when the field F1 is divided into multiple areas. The growth map is map data in which the growth status of crops for each area is assigned when the field F1 is divided into multiple areas. For example, the growth status of crops can be obtained by capturing images of the field F1 planted with crops from the air using a drone or the like and analyzing the captured images using various vegetation indices such as NDVI, DVI, RVI, GNDVI, SAVI, TSAVI, CAI, MTCI, REP, PRI, or RSI. In particular, a growth map obtained using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) is also called an "NDVI map." The soil map is map data in which, when the field F1 is divided into multiple areas, soil characteristics including soil hardness and hard pan depth for each area are assigned to each area. The past fertilization map is map data in which, when the field F1 is divided into multiple areas, the amount of fertilizer applied (amount of fertilizer applied) for each area is assigned to each area, and is map data used in past fertilization work, i.e., map data showing the results of past fertilization work. In this embodiment, these past maps associated with the field F1 as a registered field are used as a reference map M2, which is an example of reference information.

[0104] Furthermore, the work information described above also includes time information related to the work (for example, start date and time and end date and time). This allows the work information to be stored in a manner that makes it possible to identify when the work was performed for performance maps such as yield maps, taste maps, and growth maps. For example, it is possible to register yield maps, taste maps, growth maps, etc. for the same field F1 for each fiscal year.

[0105] 6, the field setting screen P2 includes a field designation area R21 and an operation area R22. Information for designating a field F1 as a target field is displayed in the field designation area R21. That is, the user selects an arbitrary field F1 from among multiple fields F1 registered as registered fields in the field designation area R21 of the field setting screen P2 displayed on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3, and designates the selected field as the target field.

[0106] Specifically, the field designation region R21 includes, for example, an image Im2 such as a map or an aerial photograph for designating the field F1, and a list of the fields F1 designated as target fields. Therefore, the designation unit 11 designates the target field in accordance with a user's operation to designate the field F1 on the image Im2. The image Im2 includes at least one field F1, and the user designates an arbitrary field F1 as the target field by, for example, selecting the arbitrary field F1 on this image Im2 with a cursor or the like.

[0107] 6, five fields F11 to F15 are displayed in image Im2, and the user has designated all five of these fields F11 to F15 as target fields. Therefore, on the right side of image Im2 in the field designation region R21, "field 6" which is field F11, "field 10" which is field F12, "field 3" which is field F13, "field 4" which is field F14, and "field 8" which is field F15 are displayed side by side. Here, the field setting screen P2 displays the designated target fields lined up vertically (up and down) so that each row corresponds to an individual field F1.

[0108] Information on the designated reference map M2 is displayed alongside each target field. If multiple performance maps are associated with the field F1 designated as the target field, it is possible to switch the performance map designated as the reference map M2 to another performance map. On the other hand, if a reference map M2 is not designated for the field F1 designated as the target field because no performance map is associated with it, for example, the information on the reference map M2 is displayed as "none." In the example of FIG. 6, the growth map (NDVI map) for June 2019 is designated as the reference map M2 for "Field 6" (field F11) and "Field 10" (field F12). For the other fields F13 to F15, no reference map M2 is designated.

[0109] Furthermore, the specific means for designating the field F1 as the target field is not limited to the above example. For example, the user may designate an arbitrary range on the image Im2 using a cursor or the like, thereby designating the field F1 included in the arbitrary range as the target field. In this case, if the arbitrary range includes multiple fields F1, these multiple fields F1 are designated as the target field collectively. Furthermore, the user may designate the field F1 as the target field by inputting information that can identify the field F1, such as the field name, address, or latitude and longitude. Furthermore, in the image Im2, operations such as switching between map and aerial photograph, scrolling, zooming in / out, and page switching are also possible according to user operations.

[0110] The operation area R22 displays input fields for searching registered fields using various search criteria, such as the year, crop, variety, and group name, for example. The fields F1 displayed in the image Im2 are narrowed down by the year, crop, etc. entered in these input fields. The operation area R22 also displays multiple buttons that the user can operate, such as a parameter setting button B21, field number setting buttons B22 and B23 for setting the number of fields, a method setting button B24 for setting the fertilization method (spraying method), and a back button B25. The field number setting buttons B22 and B23 are radio buttons for selecting whether to specify multiple fields F1 or a single field F1 as the target fields for creating the work map M1. Selecting the Field Count Setting button B22 makes it possible to specify multiple fields F1 as the target fields, and selecting the Field Count Setting button B23 makes it possible to specify a single field F1 as the target field. The Method Setting button B24 is a radio button for selecting one of three fertilization methods: full layer fertilization, side stripe fertilization, and top dressing. Full layer fertilization and side stripe fertilization are included in "base fertilization." The Back button B25 is a button for returning to the previous screen, i.e., the Result List screen P1.

[0111] In this embodiment, a priority is set for the reference maps M2. For a field F1 for which multiple reference maps M2 are specified, the reference map M2 to be used to create the work map M1 is determined according to this priority. Therefore, for a field F1 for which multiple reference maps M2 are specified, the reference map M2 with the highest priority (first priority) is displayed by default in the field designation area R21 on the field setting screen P2. That is, for a field F1 for which multiple reference maps M2 are specified, the creation processing unit 12 creates the work map M1 based on one or more reference maps M2 selected from the multiple reference maps M2 according to the priority. Specifically, the condition determination unit 121 of the creation processing unit 12 determines the reference map M2 to be used to create the work map M1 by referring to the priority. As a result, the creation processing unit 12 uses the reference maps M2 with the highest priority in descending order. For a field F1 for which a reference map M2 with a higher priority is not associated, the creation processing unit 12 creates the work map M1 using the reference map M2 with the next highest priority.

[0112] Such priorities are arbitrarily set by the user on a priority setting screen P21 as shown in FIG. 7. As an example, the priority setting screen P21 in FIG. 7 allows the user to set reference maps M2 as first, second, and third priorities for each fertilization method (spraying method). In the example of FIG. 7, for "full-layer fertilization," the growth map (NDVI map) from the previous fall is set as the first priority, the yield map from the previous year is set as the second priority, and the soil fertility map is set as the third priority. Therefore, in a field F1 where full-layer fertilization is performed, if a growth map from the previous fall is associated, that growth map is used as the reference map M2 to create the work map M1; if a growth map from the previous fall is not associated, the growth map from the previous fall is used as the reference map M2. Furthermore, if the reference map M2 is not set as the first, second, or third priority, it is considered that the reference map M2 has not been designated. Priorities are set, for example, for each user.

[0113] [6.3] Parameter setting process Next, we will explain the "parameter setting process" for setting parameters used to create the work map M1. The parameter setting process is executed when the creation processing unit 12 creates a new work map M1 in new creation mode.

[0114] In the parameter setting process, the display processing unit 161 displays the parameter setting screen P3 on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3. That is, when the parameter setting button B21 is operated on the field setting screen P2, the parameter setting process starts, and the screen displayed on the display unit 33 transitions from the field setting screen P2 to the parameter setting screen P3.

[0115] The parameter setting screen P3 is a screen for setting parameters used in creating the work map M1. The "parameters" referred to here include information about the material (fertilizer) to be spread during the spreading work, and include, as an example, a standard fertilizer application rate. The "standard fertilizer application rate" is the standard amount of fertilizer to be applied per unit area specified for a certain field F1, and is expressed in units of, for example, "kg / 10a." In other words, the parameters set on the parameter setting screen P3 include at least the amount of material to be spread (fertilizer application rate).

[0116] As shown in Fig. 8, the parameter setting screen P3 includes a setting area R31 and a reference area R32. Information for setting parameters is displayed in the setting area R31. That is, the user inputs parameters to be used in creating the work map M1 in the setting area R31 of the parameter setting screen P3 displayed on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3. In addition, the reference area R32 displays, for reference, the "maximum value," "mode," and "minimum value" of the NDVI values ​​for the field F1 designated as the target field.

[0117] Specifically, the setting area R31 includes, for example, multiple input fields C31 to C38 and multiple buttons that can be operated by the user, such as a Create button B31, a Back button B32, and a Reference button B33. The input field C31 is an area for inputting the fertilizer name, the input field C32 the nitrogen content, the input field C33 the weight per bag, the input field C34 the standard fertilizer application rate, and the input field C35 the nitrogen weight, for example, in free text. The input field C36 automatically inserts the maximum fertilizer application rate that can be input as the standard fertilizer application rate, and the input field C37 automatically inserts the minimum fertilizer application rate that can be input as the standard fertilizer application rate. The input field C38 is an area for inputting the mesh size of the work map M1, i.e., the size of the section K, for example, by selection. The Back button B32 is a button for returning to the previous screen, i.e., the field setting screen P2. The Reference button B33 is a button for referring to the past parameter input history and quoting parameters from the input history.

[0118] For example, when the reference button B33 is operated, a reference screen P31 as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the display unit 33. The reference screen P31 is a screen based on the input history on the parameter setting screen P3, and displays previously input items such as the fertilizer name, nitrogen content, and weight per bag. When an arbitrary fertilizer is selected on this reference screen P31 and the reflect button B311 is operated, the information on the selected fertilizer is automatically inserted into the input fields C31 to C33. It is also possible to delete unnecessary input history by operating the delete button B312 on the reference screen P31. In the example of FIG. 9, the reference screen P31 is displayed as a pop-up window superimposed on the parameter setting screen P3, but this is not limiting, and the parameter setting screen P3 may be switched to the reference screen P31.

[0119] In this embodiment, the calculation unit 17 executes the calculation process while the parameter setting screen P3 is displayed. Specifically, the creation processing unit 12 creates work support information D1 based on the amount of spraying material calculated by the calculation unit 17. Therefore, the calculation process is executed by the calculation unit 17 while the parameter setting screen P3, which inputs the amount of spraying material (standard fertilizer application rate), is displayed. The calculation unit 17 calculates the amount of spraying material from the specific amount represented by the specific amount information acquired by the specific amount acquisition unit 133, based on the type information acquired by the type acquisition unit 132. Specifically, the calculation unit 17 calculates the standard fertilizer application rate from the nitrogen weight entered in the input field C35, based on the type information including the nitrogen content entered in the input field C32. The standard fertilizer application rate calculated by the calculation unit 17 is then automatically inserted into the input field C34.

[0120] As a result, for example, when a user inputs a nitrogen weight into input field C35 as shown in the upper part of FIG. 10, the standard fertilizer application amount is automatically entered into input field C34 as shown in the lower part of FIG. 10. In the example of FIG. 10, since "33.00 kg / 10 a" is input as the nitrogen weight, the calculation unit 17 calculates the amount of the applied material (fertilizer) by dividing "33.00" by the nitrogen content rate in the type information. The application amount calculated in this manner ("73.33 kg / 10 a" in the example of FIG. 10) is automatically entered into input field C34 as the standard fertilizer application amount. Therefore, even a user who focuses on a specific component of the fertilizer (e.g., nitrogen) for each crop and determines the application amount based on the weight of that specific component can relatively easily input the standard fertilizer application amount.

[0121] Here, in this embodiment, the work support information D1 includes a work map M1 having multiple sections K. Therefore, the standard fertilizer amount calculated by the calculation unit 17 is reflected in the work index of the multiple sections K in the work map M1. In other words, the creation processing unit 12 sets the work index of each of the multiple sections K in the work map M1 based on the amount of sprayed material calculated by the calculation unit 17.

[0122] In this embodiment, the user can also directly input a standard fertilizer amount into input field C34. When the standard fertilizer amount is directly input into input field C34, this standard fertilizer amount is acquired as spray amount information by spray amount acquisition unit 134. Then, when the spray amount information is acquired by spray amount acquisition unit 134, creation processing unit 12 creates work support information D1 based on the spray amount information instead of the spray amount of the sprayed material calculated by calculation unit 17. In other words, when the standard fertilizer amount is directly input into input field C34, this standard fertilizer amount is used to create work map M1 instead of the standard fertilizer amount calculated by calculation unit 17. This allows even a user who determines the spray amount based on a fertilizer amount (standard fertilizer amount) rather than a specific amount to easily input the standard fertilizer amount.

[0123] Furthermore, when the spray amount information is acquired by the spray amount acquisition unit 134, the calculation unit 17 calculates the specific amount from the spray amount of the sprayed material based on the type information. Specifically, the calculation unit 17 calculates the nitrogen weight as the specific amount by multiplying the spray amount (standard fertilizer amount) acquired by the spray amount acquisition unit 134 by the nitrogen content rate in the information. In short, the calculation unit 17 not only calculates the spray amount (standard fertilizer amount) from the specific amount (nitrogen weight), but also, conversely, can calculate the specific amount (nitrogen weight) from the spray amount (standard fertilizer amount). Therefore, the specific amount (nitrogen weight) and the spray amount (standard fertilizer amount) have a relationship that allows them to be converted into each other by the calculation unit 17.

[0124] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the display processing unit 161 displays both the specific amount and the application rate of the sprayed product on one screen. Specifically, as shown in Figure 10, on the parameter setting screen P3, the specific amount (nitrogen weight) is displayed in the input field C35, and the application rate of the sprayed product (standard fertilizer rate) is displayed in the input field C34. This makes it easier to visually compare the specific amount and the application rate of the sprayed product.

[0125] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the limiting unit 18 executes the limiting process while the parameter setting screen P3 is displayed. That is, the creation processing unit 12 creates the work support information D1 based on the application rate of the sprayed material, the input setting value of which is limited by the limiting unit 18. Therefore, the limiting unit 18 executes the limiting process while the parameter setting screen P3, in which the application rate of the sprayed material (standard fertilizer rate) is input, is displayed. When creating the work support information D1, the limiting unit 18 limits the input setting value entered for the application rate of the sprayed material based on the work method information. Specifically, the limiting unit 18 limits the input setting value of the standard fertilizer rate entered in the input field C34 based on the fertilization method (full-layer fertilization, side-stripe fertilization, or top dressing) selected on the field setting screen P2. Therefore, taking into account that the amount of fertilizer required differs depending on the type of fertilization method, the input of unnecessary fertilizer amounts can be suppressed in advance.

[0126] In this embodiment, as an example, the limiting unit 18 performs both active and passive restrictions on the input of input setting values. As an active restriction, for example, when limiting the upper limit of the input setting value, the limiting unit 18 prohibits the input of a standard fertilizer amount equal to or greater than the upper limit of the input setting value in the input field C34. As a passive restriction, for example, when limiting the upper limit of the input setting value, the limiting unit 18 automatically inserts the upper limit into the input field C36, and when limiting the lower limit of the input setting value, the limiting unit 18 automatically inserts the lower limit into the input field C37. This allows the user to understand the standard fertilizer amount that can be input based on the display of the input fields C36 and C37 before inputting the standard fertilizer amount. Furthermore, if the user makes an incorrect input, the incorrect input is prohibited. In this embodiment, the standard fertilizer amount calculated from the nitrogen weight by the calculation unit 17 may be input. In this case, the limiting unit 18 indirectly restricts the input setting value of the standard fertilizer amount by restricting the input setting value of the nitrogen weight. Furthermore, in the variable fertilization map described later, the limiting unit 18 can limit the input setting values ​​not only for the upper and lower limit values ​​but also for the range of variation in the amount of fertilization.

[0127] More specifically, in this embodiment, the method of spraying work (fertilization method) includes base fertilization and top dressing, and therefore the limiting unit 18 changes the limit on the input setting value depending on whether the fertilization method is base fertilization or top dressing. In particular, the limiting unit 18 limits the upper limit of the input setting value to a smaller value for top dressing compared to base fertilization. As a result, when the user sets the standard fertilization amount on the parameter setting screen P3, if the fertilization method is top dressing, the upper limit of the standard fertilization amount that can be input is limited to a smaller value compared to base fertilization. Therefore, setting an excessive fertilization amount for top dressing is automatically suppressed.

[0128] Furthermore, in this embodiment, since base fertilization includes full-layer application and side stripe application, the limiting unit 18 changes the limit of the input setting value depending on whether the fertilization method is full-layer application or side stripe application. In particular, the limiting unit 18 limits the upper limit of the input setting value to a lower value for side stripe application compared to full-layer application. As a result, when the user sets the standard fertilization amount on the parameter setting screen P3, if the fertilization method is side stripe application, the upper limit of the standard fertilization amount that can be input is limited to a lower value compared to full-layer application. Therefore, even in base fertilization, if a clear difference in the required fertilization amount theoretically occurs, the setting of an excessive fertilization amount is automatically suppressed by distinguishing between the two. Here, in the case of top dressing, the upper limit of the input setting value is limited to an even lower value compared to side stripe application.

[0129] The work method information also includes the type of work machine 4 used for the spreading work. Therefore, as one example, the limiting unit 18 may change the limit on the input setting value depending on whether the type of work machine 4 is a spreader for full-layer fertilization or a spreader for side-stripe fertilization. Furthermore, since the type of work machine 4 includes, for example, rice transplanters, tractors, and drones, the limiting unit 18 may change the limit on the input setting value depending on whether the type of work machine 4 is a rice transplanter, tractor, or drone.

[0130] [6.4] Creation process Next, the "creation process" for creating the work map M1 will be described. First, the creation process in which the creation processing unit 12 creates a new work map M1 in new creation mode will be described.

[0131] While the creation process is being executed, the display processing unit 161 displays a result list screen P1 on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3. Specifically, when the Create button B31 on the parameter setting screen P3 is operated, the creation process starts, and the screen displayed on the display unit 33 transitions from the parameter setting screen P3 to the result list screen P1. Then, while the creation process is being executed, the status of the result list screen P1 becomes "calculating." When the creation process is completed, the display processing unit 161 becomes able to display a result confirmation screen P4 on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3. In other words, the status of the result list screen P1 becomes "Confirm result," and when the result confirmation button B12 is operated in this state, the screen displayed on the display unit 33 transitions from the result list screen P1 to the result confirmation screen P4.

[0132] The result confirmation screen P4 is a screen for checking the created work map M1. As shown in FIG. 11, the result confirmation screen P4 includes an image Im4 such as a map or aerial photograph for displaying the work map M1, and a plurality of buttons that can be operated by the user, such as a compare button B41, a modify button B42, a back button B43, and a save button B44. Furthermore, the result confirmation screen P4 has a display field C41 below the image Im4 for displaying the total fertilizer amount (total resource amount). The back button B43 is a button for returning to the result list screen P1. The save button B44 is a button for saving the simulation results (work map M1).

[0133] Image Im4 includes at least one work map M1, and the user checks the work map M1 on this image Im4. In the example of FIG. 11, five work maps M11 to M15 corresponding to five fields F11 to F15 are displayed within image Im4. Here, the work map M11 corresponding to field F11 and the work map M12 corresponding to field F12 are variable fertilization maps, and the other work maps M13 to M15 are uniform fertilization maps. In the present disclosure, a "variable fertilization map" refers to a work map M1 in which the work index (fertilizer amount) varies among multiple sections K set in the work area A1 corresponding to field F1. In the present disclosure, a "uniform fertilization map" refers to a work map M1 in which the work index (fertilizer amount) does not vary among multiple sections K set in the work area A1 corresponding to field F1, i.e., in which the work index is set uniformly for multiple sections K. Therefore, the work maps M13 to M15, which are uniform fertilization maps, are displayed in a "solid" manner, with the work area A1 uniformly filled in.

[0134] The variable fertilization map and the uniform fertilization map can be easily distinguished on the image Im4, but the display manner may be different for the variable fertilization map and the uniform fertilization map to make the distinction even easier. For example, as shown in Figure 11, the display processing unit 161 can make it easier to distinguish between the variable fertilization map and the uniform fertilization map by using different line types or colors on the periphery of the work map M1.

[0135] Here, whether a variable fertilization map or a uniform fertilization map is created is determined by the mapping conditions. Specifically, either a variable fertilization map or a uniform fertilization map is selectively created depending on whether a reference map M2 is specified for the field F1. The mapping conditions are specified so that if a reference map M2 is specified for the field F1, a variable fertilization map is created. In short, the mapping conditions include creating a work map M1 (variable fertilization map) that sets work indices individually for multiple sections K based on the reference map M2 if a reference map M2 is specified for the field F1. Furthermore, the mapping conditions include setting the work index uniformly for multiple sections K if a reference map M2 is not specified for the field F1.

[0136] By following these mapping conditions, a variable fertilization map is created for the field F1 for which the reference map M2 is specified, and a uniform fertilization map is created for the field F1 for which the reference map M2 is not specified. Therefore, in the example of FIG. 11, variable fertilization maps are created only for the fields F11 and F12 for which the reference map M2 is specified. That is, the growth map (NDVI map) for June 2019 is specified as the reference map M2 for both the fields F11 and F12. Therefore, the work maps M11 and M12 for the fields F11 and F12 are variable fertilization maps created based on the growth map. More specifically, the creation processing unit 12 creates the work map M1 based on the growth map to increase the amount of fertilizer applied to promote growth in locations in the field F1 where crop growth is determined to be delayed. Therefore, the work map M1 is essentially created as an inverted version of the growth map.

[0137] In this embodiment, as described above, various performance maps such as a yield map, a taste map, a growth map, a soil map, and a performance fertilization map are used as the reference map M2.

[0138] In short, the reference map M2 includes a growth map that shows the distribution of crop growth conditions within the field F1. This makes it possible to create a work map M1 that promotes growth when crop growth is delayed. The growth map then shows the growth conditions for each of multiple small areas (areas) in the field F1. The work map M1 created based on such a growth map has multiple sections K corresponding to the multiple small areas (areas). This makes it possible to create a precise work map M1 that reflects the growth conditions for each section K.

[0139] The reference map M2 also includes a yield map that shows the distribution of crop yields within the field F1. This makes it possible to create a work map M1 that promotes growth when crop yields are low. The yield map then shows the yield for each of multiple small areas (areas) in the field F1. The work map M1 created based on this yield map has multiple plots K corresponding to the multiple small areas (areas). This makes it possible to create a precise work map M1 that reflects the yield for each plot K.

[0140] Next, an example of the processing procedure of the management server 2 related to the creation processing will be described with reference to Figures 12 to 14. The calculation-related processing (S7) in Figure 12 includes a series of processes related to the calculation processing, and the details thereof are shown in the flowchart of Figure 13. The restriction-related processing (S8) in Figure 12 includes a series of processes related to the restriction processing, and the details thereof are shown in the flowchart of Figure 14.

[0141] 12, when the New button B11 on the result list screen P1 is operated (S1: Yes), the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 starts the designation process (S2). Specifically, the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 causes the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3 to display the field setting screen P2 (S3). In this state, the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 accepts the designation of field F1 as the target field.

[0142] In step S4, when the parameter setting button B21 on the field setting screen P2 is operated (S4: Yes), the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 starts the parameter setting process (S5). Specifically, the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 causes the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3 to display the parameter setting screen P3 (S6). In this state, the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 executes calculation-related processes (S7) and restriction-related processes (S8) while accepting input of parameters for creating the work map M1.

[0143] In step S9, when the create button B31 on the parameter setting screen P3 is operated (S9: Yes), the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 determines whether a reference map M2 has been designated for the field F1 as the target field (S10). For a field F1 for which the reference map M2 has been designated (S10: Yes), the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 acquires reference information regarding the reference map M2 (S11) and creates a variable fertilization map based on the reference map M2 (S12). On the other hand, for a field F1 for which the reference map M2 has not been designated (S10: No), the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 creates a uniform fertilization map (S13).

[0144] In step S14, the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 determines whether the creation process of the work map M1 has been completed for all fields F1 designated as target fields. That is, if two or more fields F1 were designated as target fields in the designation process (S2), the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 executes steps S10 to S14 for all of these two or more fields F1. As a result, the creation processing unit 12 creates work maps M1 corresponding to each of the two or more fields F1 designated as target fields in accordance with the mapping conditions. If the creation process of the work map M1 has been completed for all fields F1 designated as target fields (S14: Yes), the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 registers the work map M1 (S15) and ends the creation process.

[0145] 13, in the calculation-related processing, the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 determines whether or not a specific amount has been input in step S71. At this time, the information processing unit 1 determines that the nitrogen weight as the specific amount has been input by inputting data (value) into the input field C35 of the parameter setting screen P3 (S71: Yes), and proceeds to step S72.

[0146] In step S72, the type acquisition unit 132 of the information processing unit 1 acquires type information. At this time, the type acquisition unit 132 acquires the nitrogen content rate, etc. input in the input field C32 as the type information. Then, in step S73, the specific amount acquisition unit 133 of the information processing unit 1 acquires specific amount information. At this time, the specific amount acquisition unit 133 acquires the nitrogen weight input in the input field C35 as the specific amount information.

[0147] In step S73, the calculation unit 17 of the information processing unit 1 executes a calculation process to calculate the application amount from the specific amount. Specifically, the calculation unit 17 calculates the standard fertilizer application amount as the application amount from the nitrogen weight as the specific amount. The standard fertilizer application amount calculated by the calculation unit 17 is automatically inserted into the input field C34.

[0148] 14, in the restriction-related processing, the work method acquisition unit 135 of the information processing unit 1 acquires work method information in step S81. At this time, the work method acquisition unit 135 acquires, as work method information, the fertilization method selected from the three options of full layer fertilization, side stripe fertilization, and top dressing using the method setting button B24 on the field setting screen P2.

[0149] In step S82, the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 determines whether the working method is topdressing. If topdressing is selected by the method setting button B24 on the field setting screen P2, the information processing unit 1 determines that the working method is topdressing (S82: Yes), and the limiting unit 18 sets the upper limit value of the input setting value to V1 (S84). On the other hand, if base fertilizer (full-layer fertilization or side-dressing) is selected by the method setting button B24 on the field setting screen P2, the information processing unit 1 determines that the working method is not topdressing (S82: No), and the process proceeds to step S83.

[0150] In step S83, the information processing unit 1 of the management server 2 determines whether the working method is side-dressing. If side-dressing is selected by the method setting button B24 on the field setting screen P2, the information processing unit 1 determines that the working method is side-dressing (S83: Yes), and the limiting unit 18 sets the upper limit value of the input setting value to V2 (S85). On the other hand, if full-layer fertilization is selected by the method setting button B24 on the field setting screen P2, the information processing unit 1 determines that the working method is not side-dressing (S83: No), and the process proceeds to step S86.

[0151] In step S86, the limiting unit 18 of the information processing unit 1 sets the upper limit value of the input setting value to V3. Here, as the upper limit values, "V1", "V2", and "V3" are such that "V1" is the smallest and they increase in the order of "V2" and "V3" (V1 < V2 < V3). According to the input setting value for which the upper limit value is set in this way, the limiting unit 18 restricts the input of the standard fertilization amount to the input field C34 on the parameter setting screen P3.

[0152] However, the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 12 to 14 are merely examples, and processes may be added or omitted as appropriate, or the order of processes may be changed as appropriate.

[0153] By the way, when the work map M1 is created by the creation process, a result comparison screen P5 as illustrated in FIG. 15 becomes displayable. That is, when the comparison button B41 is operated on the result confirmation screen P4, the screen displayed on the display unit 33 transitions from the result confirmation screen P4 to the result comparison screen P5.

[0154] As shown in FIG. 15, the result comparison screen P5 has a comparison area R51 and an information area R52. The information area R52 displays various information related to the user (owner), the field F1, fertilization work, etc. The comparison area R51 displays the created work map M1 and the reference map M2 used to create this work map M1 side by side. This allows the user to check the reference map M2, which was the basis for creating the work map M1, along with the work map M1 on the result comparison screen P5. This makes it easier for the user to evaluate the work map M1.

[0155] [6.5] Corrective Actions Next, we will explain the "correction process" for correcting the work map M1. The correction process is a process in which the creation processing unit 12 re-creates the work map M1 in correction mode, and can be executed after the work map M1 has been created in new creation mode.

[0156] In the correction process, the display processing unit 161 displays a result correction screen P6 on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3. That is, when the correction button B42 is operated on the result confirmation screen P4, the screen displayed on the display unit 33 transitions from the result confirmation screen P4 to the result correction screen P6.

[0157] As shown in FIG. 16, the result modification screen P6 includes an image Im6 containing the work map M1 and an operation area R61. The operation area R61 displays a number of buttons that can be operated by the user, such as modification method selection buttons B61 and B62, a slide bar B63, a Modify button B64, a Recalculate button B65, and a Save button B66. The modification method selection buttons B61 and B62 are radio buttons for selecting whether the work map M1 will be modified for the entire field F1 or within a modification range Z61 specified on the result modification screen P6. Selecting the modification method selection button B61 enables modification for the entire field F1, while selecting the modification method selection button B62 enables the modification range to be freely specified using the modification range Z61 rather than for the field F1.

[0158] That is, when the correction method selection button B62 is selected, a frame representing the correction range Z61 is displayed on the image Im6, as shown in FIG. 16. The user sets this correction range Z61 to any shape and size on the image Im6 using a cursor or the like. This allows the section K included in the correction range Z61, out of the multiple sections K on the work map M1, to be the target for correction of the work index. In short, the creation processing unit 12 corrects the work index for the correction range Z61 specified on the result correction screen P6 including the work map M1.

[0159] The work map M1 is modified by modifying the work index. In other words, the work map M1 is modified by changing the value of the work index. Here, the work index is changed by operating the slide bar B63 or the modification button B64. In this embodiment, when the work index varies among multiple sections K, as in a variable fertilization map, the work index is modified while maintaining this variation. In the example of FIG. 16, the work indexes of the sections K within the modification range Z61 are modified uniformly while maintaining the distribution. In short, in this embodiment, when work indices are set individually for multiple sections K, the creation processing unit 12 modifies the work index while maintaining the distribution of the work index. However, this configuration is not required. For example, the variable fertilization map may be modified to change the work map M1 to one that does not have a distribution of work indices, as in a uniform fertilization map.

[0160] Furthermore, the result correction screen P6 has a display field C61 below the image Im6 for displaying the total fertilizer amount (total resource amount). This display field C61 displays the result of the correction calculation unit 15 recalculating the total resource amount for the corrected work map M1. Specifically, when the recalculation button B65 is operated, the correction calculation unit 15 recalculates the total fertilizer amount (total resource amount) based on the corrected work map M1 and displays it in the display field C61. This allows the user to easily understand that the total fertilizer amount planned to be used is significantly different from the originally expected amount due to the correction of the work map M1.

[0161] That is, in this embodiment, the operation reception unit 22 accepts a user's correction operation for the work map M1 created by the creation processing unit 12. Then, the creation processing unit 12 can correct the work index according to the correction operation and recreate the work map M1. Here, the restriction unit 18 also restricts the input setting value when the creation processing unit 12 creates the work map M1 when correcting the work index. In short, in this embodiment, the restriction unit 18 restricts the input setting value when the creation processing unit 12 recreates the work support information D1. Specifically, the restriction unit 18 restricts the range in which the work index can be modified by restricting the input setting value. In this way, whether the creation processing unit 12 is in new creation mode or correction mode, the restriction unit 18 provides input support for parameters (standard fertilizer application amounts). The save button B66 is a button for saving the modified simulation results (work map M1).

[0162] In this embodiment, if multiple fields F1 are selected as fields to be modified on the result modification screen P6, it is possible to modify these multiple fields F1 all at once. That is, as shown in FIG. 17 , by setting a modification range Z61 that spans multiple work maps M1, these multiple work maps M1 can be modified all at once. In other words, when a modification range Z61 is specified that spans multiple fields F1, the creation processing unit 12 modifies the work index for the multiple fields F1 all at once. This significantly reduces the burden on the user when making modifications that span multiple fields F1, such as uniformly increasing the amount of fertilizer applied to the northern range of multiple fields F1.

[0163] [6.7] Output Processing Next, the "output process" for outputting the task map M1 will be described.

[0164] In the output process, the display processing unit 161 displays the output screen P7 on the display unit 33 of the user terminal 3. That is, when the output button B13 is operated on the result list screen P1, the screen displayed on the display unit 33 transitions from the result list screen P1 to the output screen P7.

[0165] 18, the output screen P7 includes an input field for searching for any simulation result (work map M1). The output screen P7 includes a write button B71, and when the write button B71 is operated, the work support information D1 (work map M1) is written to the recording medium 5 in a format that can be read by the work machine 4.

[0166] [7] Variation Below, we will list some modified examples of embodiment 1. The modified examples explained below can be applied in appropriate combinations.

[0167] The task map creation system 10 of the present disclosure includes a computer system. The computer system is primarily composed of one or more processors and one or more memories as hardware. The processor executes a program stored in the memory of the computer system to realize the functions of the task map creation system 10 of the present disclosure. The program may be pre-stored in the memory of the computer system, provided via a telecommunications line, or provided by being stored on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card, optical disk, or hard disk drive that can be read by the computer system.

[0168] Furthermore, some or all of the functional units included in the management server 2 or the user terminal 3 may be configured as electronic circuits.

[0169] Furthermore, it is not essential for the task map creation system 10 that at least some of the functions of the task map creation system 10 be concentrated in one housing; the components of the task map creation system 10 may be distributed across multiple housings. For example, some of the functions of the information processing unit 1 may be provided in a housing separate from the management server 2. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the task map creation system 10 may be realized by cloud computing or the like.

[0170] Conversely, in the first embodiment, the functions of the task map creation system 10 that are distributed across multiple devices may be consolidated into a single housing. For example, at least some of the functions that are distributed across the management server 2 and the user terminal 3 may be consolidated into the management server 2 or the user terminal 3.

[0171] Incidentally, as shown in Fig. 19, the result comparison screen P5 may be configured to allow the reference map M2 to be changed. The result comparison screen P5 shown in Fig. 19 has a map selection button B51 for changing the reference map M2, and a recalculation button B52. This makes it easy to change the reference map M2 from a growth map (NDVI map) to another performance map such as a yield map, and recalculate the work map M1, for example.

[0172] Furthermore, the configurations of the work map creation system 10 for realizing the function of creating a work map M1 for two or more fields F1 at once, the function related to the calculation process, and the function related to the restriction process can each be employed independently. Furthermore, the configuration of the work map creation system 10 related to the correction process can also be employed independently. For example, the creation processing unit 12 may not employ the function of creating a work map M1 for two or more fields F1 at once, but may instead employ a function of correcting the work index in accordance with the correction operation and recreating the work map M1.

[0173] Furthermore, the multiple sections K of the work map M1 are not limited to being divided into meshes (squares), but may be set by dividing them into any shapes or the like.

[0174] Furthermore, the display unit 33 and operation unit 34 of the user terminal 3 only need to have the function of a user interface, and the manner of information output and the manner of information input (operation) are not limited to the above-mentioned manners. As an example, the display unit 33 may use projection by a projector, audio output, printing, or other modes as the manner of information output. In this case, various screens may be projected by a projector or displayed on a sheet by printing, for example. Furthermore, the operation unit 34 may use voice input, gesture input, input of an operation signal from another terminal, or other modes as the manner of information input. Furthermore, operation units other than the user terminal 3 may also use voice input, gesture input, input of an operation signal from another terminal, or other modes.

[0175] Furthermore, the work support information D1 need only be information that supports spraying work in the field, and is not limited to the work map M1. The work support information D1 may also be information (spraying information) such as the spraying amount (spraying amount per unit area) applied to the entire field F1. In other words, since the work map creation system 10 is an example of a work support information creation system, the product thereof is not limited to the work map M1, and may be work support information D1 in a broad sense. Similarly, the method of creating the work map M1 is an example of a method of creating work support information D1, and the work map creation program is an example of a work support information creation program.

[0176] Furthermore, in the first embodiment, the application product is a fertilizer, and the specific component contained in the application product is nitrogen. However, the specific component is not limited to nitrogen. For example, if the application product is a fertilizer, the specific components of the application product may be nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and the like, which are known as the three elements of fertilizer. In other words, other than nitrogen, for example, phosphorus or potassium may also be used as the specific component. In this case, instead of the weight of nitrogen, the amount of phosphorus or potassium per unit area of ​​the field F1 is the "specific amount."

[0177] (Embodiment 2) 20, the task map creation system 10A according to this embodiment differs from the task map creation system 10 according to the first embodiment in that it includes, in addition to the management server 2, another server 6 that cooperates with the management server 2. Hereinafter, components similar to those in the first embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals and descriptions thereof will be omitted where appropriate.

[0178] The "other server" referred to in the present disclosure is a server separate from the management server 2, and for example, the operating entity (management entity) of the other server 6 is separate from the management server 2. The other server 6 is connected to a communication network N1 and can communicate with the management server 2 via the communication network N1. In this embodiment, the function of the "correction processing unit" of the creation processing unit 12 is implemented in the other server 6 instead of the management server 2.

[0179] In this embodiment, as an example, the other server 6 has an API (Application Programming Interface). When the management server 2 calls the API via the communication network N1, the other server 6 provides the functions of the correction processing unit 61 to the management server 2. In this way, the management server 2 cooperates with the other server 6 to realize the functions of the task map creation system 10A.

[0180] That is, the separate server 6 according to this embodiment includes a correction processing unit 61, a correction-time calculation unit 62, a presentation processing unit 63, and an interface unit 53 that receives input of information from the management server 2. Therefore, in this embodiment, the correction processing unit 123 (see FIG. 1) and the correction-time calculation unit 15 (see FIG. 1) are omitted from the management server 2.

[0181] As a modification of the second embodiment, it is not essential that the multiple functions of the other server 6 are integrated into one housing, and the components of the other server 6 may be distributed across multiple housings. Furthermore, at least some of the functions of the other server 6 may be realized by the cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

[0182] <Notes on the invention> According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a work map creation system including a designation unit and a creation processing unit. The designation unit is capable of designating two or more fields as target fields. The creation processing unit creates work maps for each of the two or more fields designated as the target fields in accordance with mapping conditions, the work maps having a plurality of sections, each section having a work index set for that section.

[0183] A method for generating a work map according to another aspect of the present invention includes accepting the designation of two or more fields as target fields, and simultaneously creating work maps for each of the two or more fields designated as the target fields, each having a plurality of plots for which a work index is set in accordance with mapping conditions.

[0184] A work map generation program relating to another aspect of the present invention is a program for causing one or more processors to execute the following steps: accepting the designation of two or more fields as target fields; and creating, in one go, work maps corresponding to each of the two or more fields designated as the target fields, each having a plurality of plots for which a work index is set in accordance with mapping conditions. [Explanation of symbols]

[0185] 10, 10A Work map creation system (work support information creation system) 2 Management Server 3. User terminal 11 Specified section 12 Creation processing section 15,62 Correction calculation part 16,63 Presentation processing unit 22 Operation reception section F1 field K Section M1 Work Map M2 Reference Map P6 Result correction screen Z61 correction range

Claims

1. a designation unit capable of automatically designating two or more fields as target fields based on selection conditions; a creation processing unit that creates a work map corresponding to each of the two or more fields designated as the target fields, the work map having a plurality of sections, each of which has a work index set in accordance with mapping conditions; and an operation receiving unit that receives a user's correction operation for the task map created by the creation processing unit, the creation processing unit modifies the task index in accordance with the modification operation and recreates the task map while maintaining the plurality of sections. Work mapping system.

2. When the work indexes are set individually for the plurality of sections, the creation processing unit corrects the work indexes while maintaining the distribution of the work indexes. The task map creation system according to claim 1 .

3. The computer automatically designating two or more fields as target fields based on the selection conditions; creating a work map corresponding to each of the two or more fields designated as the target fields, the work map having a plurality of sections, each of which has a work index set in accordance with mapping conditions; and Accepting a user's correction operation on the created work map; modifying the work index in accordance with the modification operation and recreating the work map while maintaining the plurality of sections; How to generate a working map.

4. automatically designating two or more fields as target fields based on the selection conditions; creating a work map corresponding to each of the two or more fields designated as the target fields, the work map having a plurality of sections, each of which has a work index set in accordance with mapping conditions; and Accepting a user's correction operation on the created work map; A task map generating program for causing one or more processors to execute the above, modifying the work index in accordance with the modification operation and recreating the work map while maintaining the plurality of sections; Working map generator.

Images