Control device, design support method, and design support program

Abstract

This provides technology to support the design of machining flows in machining systems. [Solution] The processing system comprises a plurality of machines used for processing a workpiece, and a conveying device for conveying a material to one of the plurality of machines. The control device of the processing system performs the following processes: displaying a first setting screen that accepts the setting of a processing flow including a plurality of processes related to the conveyed material and the execution order of the plurality of processes; and displaying a second setting screen that accepts a first operation to associate one of the plurality of machines with each process included in the processing flow.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device, a design support method, and a design support program.

Background Art

[0002] In recent years, processing systems have been growing in scale. The processing system is composed of various devices such as machine tools and transfer devices, for example. Regarding a processing system composed of such diverse devices, a technique for supporting the design of a processing flow is desired.

[0003] Regarding this, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-334780 (Patent Document 1) discloses an operation description method for simplifying the design of a program for an industrial robot.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The operation description method disclosed in Patent Document 1 is applicable to an industrial robot, and it is not assumed to be applied to a processing system composed of various processing devices.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and an object in one aspect is to provide a technique for supporting the design of a processing flow in a processing system.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In one example of this disclosure, a control device for a machining system is provided. The machining system comprises a plurality of devices used for machining a workpiece, and a conveying device for conveying a material to any of the plurality of devices. The control device performs the following processes: a process of displaying a first setting screen that accepts the setting of a machining flow including a plurality of processes related to the conveyed material and the execution order of the plurality of processes; and a process of displaying a second setting screen that accepts a first operation for associating any of the plurality of devices with each process included in the machining flow.

[0008] In one example of this disclosure, the second setting screen is further configured to accept a second operation to associate the transport device with a set of processes that are executed consecutively among the processes included in the processing flow.

[0009] In one example of this disclosure, the second setting screen includes a first display area for displaying multiple process objects corresponding to multiple processes included in the processing flow, and a second display area for displaying multiple equipment objects corresponding to multiple pieces of equipment. The first operation includes assigning one of the multiple process objects to one of the multiple equipment objects.

[0010] In one example of this disclosure, the control device displays a connection object indicating the connection between the first and second equipment objects, based on the fact that a set of process objects relating to processes that are executed consecutively among the processes included in the processing flow are assigned to the first and second equipment objects, respectively, among the plurality of equipment objects.

[0011] In one example of this disclosure, the control device is further configured to communicate with other control devices. The setting information related to the processing flow set on the first setting screen is transmitted to the other control device and used for settings in the other control device.

[0012] In one example of this disclosure, the transported object includes at least one of a workpiece, a tool, and a pallet.

[0013] In one example of this disclosure, the plurality of devices include at least one of a machine tool, a stocker for the conveyed material, and a measuring device.

[0014] Another example of this disclosure provides a design support method for assisting in the design of a machining flow relating to a machining system. The machining system comprises a plurality of machines used for machining a workpiece and a conveying device for conveying a material to any of the plurality of machines. The design support method comprises the steps of displaying a first setting screen that accepts the setting of a machining flow including a plurality of processes relating to the conveyed material and the execution order of the plurality of processes, and displaying a second setting screen that accepts a first operation for associating any of the plurality of machines with each process included in the machining flow.

[0015] Another example of this disclosure provides a design support program for assisting in the design of a machining flow relating to a machining system. The machining system comprises a plurality of machines used for machining a workpiece and a transport device for transporting a material to any of the plurality of machines. The design support program causes a computer to perform the following processes: display a first setting screen that accepts the setting of a machining flow including a plurality of processes relating to the transported material and the execution order of the plurality of processes; and display a second setting screen that accepts a first operation for associating any of the plurality of machines with each process included in the machining flow.

[0016] The above and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description relating to the invention, which will be understood in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of the equipment configuration of an automated system. [Figure 2]It is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the control device. [Figure 3] It is a flowchart showing the design procedure in the integrated development environment. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing an example of the basic information setting screen. [Figure 5] It is a diagram showing the flow setting screen in the initial state. [Figure 6] It is a diagram showing an example of the processing flow set on the flow setting screen. [Figure 7] It is a diagram showing another example of the processing flow set on the flow setting screen. [Figure 8] It is a diagram showing an example of the device setting screen. [Figure 9] It is a diagram showing the device setting screen during setting. [Figure 10] It is a diagram showing an example of the program setting screen. [Figure 11] It is a diagram showing an example of the conveyance setting screen. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing the device setting screen after the conveyance device is set on the conveyance setting screen. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the setting information. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the automation system. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing an example of the data flow between the control device, the machine tool, and the conveyance device. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing an example of the conveyance command generated for the conveyance device. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing a multi-stage stocker. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing a schematic display screen that schematically represents the processing progress status of each workpiece in the stocker. [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing a detailed display screen that details the processing progress status of each workpiece in the stocker. [Figure 20] It is a diagram schematically showing the process of mapping. [[ID=5

[0018] Hereinafter, each embodiment according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions thereof will not be repeated. In addition, each embodiment and each modification described below may be selectively combined as appropriate.

[0019] <A. Automation System 5> First, referring to FIG. 1, the device configuration of the automation system 5 will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the automation system 5.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1, the automation system 5 includes a management device 10, a control device 100, and a processing system 500.

[0021] The management device 10 is configured to be communicable with the control device 100 through the network NW1 and manages the control device 100. The management device 10 is, for example, a notebook or desktop PC, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a wearable terminal, or other computer having a communication function.

[0022] The control device 100 is configured to be communicable with the processing system 500 through the network NW2. The control device 100 is a computer for controlling the operation of the processing system 500. The network NW2 may be a different network from the network NW1 or the same network as the network NW1.

[0023] Note that the number of control devices 100 constituting the automation system 5 may be one or plural. In the example of FIG. 1, the automation system 5 is composed of two control devices 100A and 100B. Hereinafter, when the control devices 100A and 100B are not particularly distinguished, the control devices 100A and 100B are referred to as the control device 100.

[0024] Furthermore, the number of processing systems 500 that make up the automation system 5 may be one or more. In the example in Figure 1, the automation system 5 consists of two processing systems 500A and 500B. Hereafter, unless otherwise distinguished, processing systems 500A and 500B will be referred to as processing system 500.

[0025] The processing system 500 includes a plurality of processing machines 200 used for processing workpieces, and a conveying device 300 for conveying materials to any of the plurality of processing machines 200.

[0026] The types of processing equipment 200 are not particularly limited. For example, processing equipment 200 may include a stocker 240 and a machine tool 250.

[0027] The stocker 240 is equipment for temporarily placing items transported by the conveying device 300. The processing system 500 may have one stocker 240 or multiple stockers 240.

[0028] The machine tool 250 is a device equipped with the function of processing a workpiece. The machine tool 250 may be a horizontal machining center or a vertical machining center. Alternatively, the machine tool 250 may be a cutting machine, grinding machine, multi-tasking machine, 5-axis machining center, etc. Furthermore, the machine tool 250 is not limited to performing only removal processing. The machine tool 250 may perform addition processing in addition to removal processing.

[0029] The number of machine tools 250 provided in the processing system 500 may be one or more.

[0030] The conveying device 300 is a device for transporting objects between the processing equipment 200. Examples of conveying devices 300 include 2-3 axis driven Cartesian robots (autoloaders), 4-7 axis driven articulated robots, and self-propelled robots.

[0031] The number of transfer devices 300 provided in the processing system 500 may be one or more than one. Also, the object to be transferred by the transfer device 300 is not particularly limited. As an example, the object to be transferred by the transfer device 300 includes a workpiece to be processed, a tool used during processing, a pallet for fixing the workpiece to be processed, and the like.

[0032] <B. Hardware Configuration> Next, referring to FIG. 2, the hardware configuration of the control device 100 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the control device 100.

[0033] The control device 100 includes a control circuit 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, a communication interface 104, a display interface 105, an input interface 107, and an auxiliary storage device 120. These components are connected to a bus 110.

[0034] The control circuit 101 is constituted by, for example, at least one integrated circuit. The integrated circuit is constituted by, for example, at least one CPU (Central Processing Unit), at least one GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), at least one ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), at least one FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a combination thereof.

[0035] The control circuit 101 controls the operation of the control device 100 by executing various programs such as a design support program 122. The design support program 122 is a program for supporting the design of a control program 123. The control program 123 is a program for controlling the above-described processing system 500.

[0036] Based on receiving execution instructions for various programs, the control circuit 101 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 120 or ROM 102 into the RAM 103. The RAM 103 functions as working memory and temporarily stores various data necessary for the execution of the various programs.

[0037] The communication interface 104 is connected to a LAN (Local Area Network), an antenna, and other devices. The control device 100 exchanges data with external devices via the communication interface 104. Examples of such external devices include the management device 10 mentioned above and the processing system 500 mentioned above.

[0038] A display 106 is connected to the display interface 105. The display interface 105 sends image signals to the display 106 for displaying images, according to commands from the control circuit 101 and the like. The display 106 is, for example, a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, or other display device. The display 106 may be configured integrally with the control device 100, or it may be configured separately from the control device 100.

[0039] An input device 108 is connected to the input interface 107. The input device 108 may be, for example, a mouse, keyboard, touch panel, or other device capable of receiving user input. The input device 108 may be configured integrally with the control unit 100 or separately from the control unit 100.

[0040] The auxiliary storage device 120 is, for example, a hard disk, a flash memory, an SSD (Solid State Drive), and other storage media. The auxiliary storage device 120 stores a design support program 122, a control program 123, device information 124 described later, setting information 128 described later, and the like. These storage locations are not limited to the auxiliary storage device 120 and may be stored in a storage area of the control circuit 101 (for example, a cache memory), the ROM 102, the RAM 103, an external device, or the like. Examples of the external device include the above-described management device 10 and other computers.

[0041] Note that the design support program 122 may be provided not as a single program but incorporated into a part of an arbitrary program. In this case, various processes defined in the design support program 122 are realized in cooperation with an arbitrary program. Even a program that does not include such a part of the module does not deviate from the spirit of the design support program 122 according to the present embodiment. Further, a part or all of the functions provided by the design support program 122 may be realized by dedicated hardware. Further, the control device 100 may be configured in a form such as a so-called cloud service in which at least one server executes a part of the processing of the design support program 122.

[0042] Also, the installation destination of the design support program 122 is not limited to the control device 100. As an example, the design support program 122 may be installed in the above-described management device 10 or other computers.

[0043] <C. Design Support Function> Next, referring to FIG. 3, the design support function provided by the above-described design support program 122 (see FIG. 2) will be described.

[0044] The control device 100 according to this embodiment has a function to support the design of the control program 123 related to the machining system 500. This design support function is realized by executing the design support program 122 described above.

[0045] By utilizing this design support function, users can centrally design control programs 123 for a machining system 500 composed of various types of equipment. In other words, the design support program 122 provides an integrated development environment that is independent of the configuration of the machining system 500.

[0046] Figure 3 is a flowchart showing the design procedure in the integrated development environment. As shown in Figure 3, the control device 100 executes steps S10, S12, and S14 in order.

[0047] In step S10, the control device 100 accepts the setting of basic information. As an example, the basic information set may include the flow name to be assigned to the processing flow and the work part number indicating the part number of the workpiece to be processed.

[0048] In step S12, the control device 100 accepts the setting of the processing flow. In this processing flow, multiple processes related to the material being conveyed by the conveying device 300 and the execution order of these multiple processes are set.

[0049] In step S14, the control device 100 accepts a setting to associate one of the above-mentioned processing equipment 200 with each process included in the processing flow set in step S12.

[0050] Thus, in the integrated development environment, the design flow is first set up with a processing flow that focuses on the flow of materials conveyed by the conveying device 300, and the association of processing equipment 200 to each process is performed after the processing flow is set up. This makes it possible to set up the processing flow independently of the configuration of the equipment that makes up the processing system 500.

[0051] As mentioned above, the items transported by the transport device 300 are not particularly limited. For example, items transported by the transport device 300 include workpieces to be processed, tools used during processing, and pallets for securing workpieces to be processed.

[0052] The following section explains how to set up the processing flow, using a workpiece as an example.

[0053] (C1. Step S10) First, referring to Figure 4, we will explain the basic information setting screen 550 displayed in step S10 of Figure 3. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of the basic information setting screen 550.

[0054] The basic information setting screen 550 is displayed, for example, on the display 106 mentioned above. The basic information setting screen 550 is a screen for receiving settings for the flow name to be assigned to the processing flow to be set and the work part number indicating the part number of the workpiece to be processed.

[0055] In the example shown in Figure 4, the basic information settings screen 550 includes settings field 552 and settings field 554.

[0056] The setting field 552 accepts input for a name to be assigned to the processing flow. Users can enter any name they like in the setting field 552.

[0057] The setting field 554 accepts settings related to the part number of the workpiece to be processed. The user can, for example, select any part number from a pre-registered list. The setting field 554 also accepts settings for the 3D model of the workpiece to be manufactured.

[0058] (C2. Step S12) Next, with reference to Figures 5 to 7, the flow setting screen 600 displayed in step S12 of Figure 3 will be explained. Figure 5 shows the flow setting screen 600 in its initial state.

[0059] The flow setting screen 600 is displayed, for example, on the display 106 mentioned above. The flow setting screen 600 (first setting screen) is a screen for accepting settings for the processing flow. As an example, the flow setting screen 600 is configured to accept operations for selecting any process from a predetermined set of processes and setting the execution order for the selected processes. This sets the processing flow in the automation system 5.

[0060] In the example shown in Figure 5, the flow setting screen 600 includes an input field 602, an input field 604, a setting field 610, a display field 620, a cancel button 630, and a generate button 632.

[0061] Input field 602 accepts input for a name to be assigned to the configured processing flow. Users can enter any name in input field 602. As an example, the default value for input field 602 is the flow name set in the setting field 552 (see Figure 4) mentioned above.

[0062] Input field 604 accepts comments to be added to the configured processing flow. Users can enter any comment in input field 604. Input field 604 may also be left blank.

[0063] In the settings area 610, users can design a machining flow by arbitrarily combining various processes. Selectable processes are displayed in the display area 620, for example, as process object OB1. Users can add processes that make up the machining flow by dragging and dropping process object OB1 from the display area 620 to the settings area 610.

[0064] Each of the process objects OB1 displayed in display field 620 is associated with a different process. Selectable process types include, for example, workpiece supply process, workpiece placement process, workpiece processing process, workpiece measurement process, workpiece regrip process, workpiece quality inspection process, and user-defined special processes.

[0065] Users can edit the machining flow by adding process objects OB1 from the display area 620 to the settings area 610 and rearranging them in the desired order. Operations such as deletion and rearrangement (drag and drop) are possible for process objects OB1 added to the settings area 610.

[0066] If the cancel button 630 is pressed, the control device 100 discards the content being edited on the flow setting screen 600 and closes the flow setting screen 600. On the other hand, if the generate button 632 is pressed, the control device 100 saves the content set on the flow setting screen 600 to the setting information 128 described above.

[0067] Figure 6 shows an example of a machining flow set on the flow setting screen 600. In the example in Figure 6, the machining flow is set in the setting field 610 in the order of process object OB1A → process object OB1B → process object OB1C → process object OB1D.

[0068] Process object OB1A represents the process of supplying the workpiece from the stocker. Process object OB1B represents the process of machining the workpiece. Process object OB1C represents another machining process for the workpiece. Process object OB1D represents the process of placing the workpiece into the stocker.

[0069] In the example shown in Figure 6, when the generate button 632 is pressed, the configured machining flow is saved with the name "Machining flow for the housing".

[0070] Preferably, the setting field 610 allows for the setting of the processing flow, including branching conditions. For example, if the user places a process object OB1 that acquires measurement values ​​from a measuring device in the setting field 610, the user can set branching conditions based on those measurement values. As another example, if the user places a process object OB1 that functions as a counter in the setting field 610, the user can set branching conditions based on the count value.

[0071] Figure 7 shows another example of a machining flow set on the flow setting screen 600. In the example in Figure 7, the machining flow is set in the setting field 610 in the order of process object OB1F → process object OB1G → process object OB1H → process object OB1I → process object OB1J. The machining flow also branches from process object OB1J to process object OB1K and process object OB1L.

[0072] Process object OB1F indicates the process of supplying the workpiece from the stocker. Process object OB1G indicates the process of machining the workpiece. Process object OB1H indicates another machining process for the workpiece. Process object OB1I indicates the process of measuring the shape of the workpiece.

[0073] The process object OB1J indicates a process for acquiring measurement values ​​in a measurement process. Branching conditions based on these measurement values ​​may be set for the process object OB1J. For example, a branching condition could be whether the measurement value falls within a normal range. This normal range can be arbitrarily set for the process object OB1J, for example, by defining at least one of a lower limit and an upper limit.

[0074] For example, if the measured value falls within the normal range, the branching condition is set to proceed from process object OB1J to process object OB1L. Otherwise, the branching condition is set to proceed from process object OB1J to process object OB1K.

[0075] Process object OB1K indicates the process of placing workpieces with normal measurement values ​​into a stocker. Process object OB1L indicates the process of placing workpieces with abnormal measurement values ​​into a different stocker.

[0076] In the example shown in Figure 7, if the generate button 632 is pressed, the configured processing flow is saved with the name "Flow B".

[0077] (C3. Step S14) Next, referring to Figures 8 to 12, the process of step S14 in Figure 3 will be described. Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of the device setting screen 700 displayed in step S14. The device setting screen 700 is displayed, for example, on the display 106 described above.

[0078] In the aforementioned flow setting screen 600 (see Figures 5-7), the machining flow was set by specifying the combination and order of process objects OB1. In contrast, in the equipment setting screen 700 (second setting screen), the machining equipment 200 that executes each process included in the set machining flow is associated with the execution entity.

[0079] The device settings screen 700 includes, for example, a selection field 712, a display field 714, and a display field 720.

[0080] The selection field 712 is configured to accept an operation to select a processing flow from the processing flows previously set on the flow setting screen 600 described above. More specifically, the selection field 712 includes an expand button. Based on the pressing of this expand button, a list of processing flow options is displayed. The user can then select a processing flow from this list.

[0081] The display area 714 displays the processing flow selected in the selection area 712. In the example in Figure 8, a processing flow named "Flow A" is selected in the selection area 712, and this processing flow is displayed in the display area 714. This processing flow corresponds to the processing flow shown in Figure 6 above. As described above, this processing flow is set in the order of process object OB1A → process object OB1B → process object OB1C → process object OB1D.

[0082] Display area 720 shows a list of equipment that can be assigned to each process. These devices are represented as equipment objects OB2. Information on assignable equipment is defined in the equipment information 124 described above. For example, equipment information 124 includes information on processing equipment 200 and information on conveying equipment 300. Note that equipment information 124 may be predetermined or may be edited arbitrarily by the user.

[0083] In the example shown in Figure 8, the equipment object OB2 includes equipment object OB2A representing the first stocker 240, equipment object OB2B representing the first machine tool 250, equipment object OB2C representing the second machine tool 250, equipment object OB2D representing the second stocker 240, and equipment object OB2E representing the conveying device 300. Equipment object OB2 may also include other equipment objects, such as measuring devices or quality inspection devices.

[0084] The user can assign each process object OB1 displayed in display area 714 to one of the equipment objects OB2 displayed in display area 720. This assignment operation can be performed, for example, by drag-and-drop or pull-down selection. This associates each process included in the machining flow with a machining equipment 200.

[0085] Thus, the equipment setting screen 700 includes a display area 714 (first display area) and a display area 720 (second display area). Display area 714 displays multiple process objects OB1, each corresponding to one of the multiple processes included in the processing flow. Display area 720 displays multiple equipment objects OB2, each corresponding to one of the multiple processing equipment 200. The operation of associating process objects OB1 with equipment objects OB2 includes the operation of assigning one of the multiple process objects OB1 to one of the multiple equipment objects OB2.

[0086] By using the equipment settings screen 700, users can flexibly assign the entities involved in each process to the processing flow set up on the flow settings screen 600.

[0087] Figure 9 shows the equipment configuration screen 700 during the configuration process. In the example in Figure 9, process object OB1A is assigned to equipment object OB2A. Process object OB1B is assigned to equipment object OB2B. Process object OB1C is assigned to equipment object OB2C. Process object OB1D is assigned to equipment object OB2D.

[0088] In the example shown in Figure 9, the process object OB1 is assigned to the equipment object OB2. However, it is sufficient for one of the process object OB1 or equipment object OB2 to be associated with the other. That is, the process object OB1 may be assigned to the equipment object OB2, or the equipment object OB2 may be assigned to the process object OB1.

[0089] After the process object OB1 is assigned to the equipment object OB2, the control device 100 accepts detailed settings related to the process object OB1 and the equipment object OB2. For example, suppose the user selects the equipment object OB2B to which the process object OB1B is assigned. Based on this, the control device 100 displays the program setting screen 800 shown in Figure 10.

[0090] Figure 10 shows an example of the program settings screen 800. The program settings screen 800 includes a display field 810, an input field 812, an upload button 820, a cancel button 830, and a save button 832.

[0091] In the example shown in Figure 10, the display area 810 shows the target device object OB2B. This allows the user to easily recognize which device the program is being configured for.

[0092] Input field 812 accepts input for a name to be assigned to the information set on the program settings screen 800.

[0093] The upload button 820 is used to upload a machining program (for example, an NC program) to be associated with the equipment object OB2 being configured. More specifically, when the upload button 820 is pressed, the available machining programs are displayed in the selection field. The user can associate a machining program with the equipment object OB2 by selecting one from this selection field. The available machining programs may be pre-stored in the auxiliary storage device 120, or they may be obtained via external storage media or a network.

[0094] Furthermore, various parameters related to the machine tool 250 may be set on the program setting screen 800. These parameters include the operating parameters of the machine tool 250 and the equipment configuration of the machine tool 250. As another example, these parameters may be pre-set.

[0095] If the cancel button 830 is pressed, the control device 100 discards the contents being edited on the program settings screen 800 and closes the program settings screen 800. On the other hand, if the save button 832 is pressed, the control device 100 saves the contents set on the program settings screen 800 to the setting information 128 described above.

[0096] In this way, by using the program settings screen 800, users can associate a machining program with the machine tool 250, which is the main unit that executes the machining process.

[0097] Referring again to Figure 9, the control device 100 displays a connection object indicating the connection between the first and second equipment objects, based on the fact that a set of process objects OB1 relating to processes that are executed consecutively within the processes included in the processing flow has been assigned to the first and second equipment objects among the multiple equipment objects OB2, respectively.

[0098] As an example, suppose a pair of process objects OB1A and OB1B, whose execution order is consecutive, are assigned to equipment objects OB2A and OB2B, respectively. In this case, the control device 100 displays a connection object CN1 between equipment object OB2A and equipment object OB2B.

[0099] As another example, suppose a pair of process objects OB1B and OB1C, whose execution order is consecutive, are assigned to equipment objects OB2B and OB2C, respectively. In this case, the control device 100 displays a connection object CN2 between equipment object OB2B and equipment object OB2C.

[0100] As another example, suppose a pair of process objects OB1C and OB1D, whose execution order is consecutive, are assigned to equipment objects OB2C and OB2D, respectively. In this case, the control device 100 displays a connection object CN3 between equipment object OB2C and equipment object OB2D.

[0101] This reflects the execution order of the processing flow in the equipment object OB2, allowing users to easily understand the relationship between the execution order of the process and the executing entity.

[0102] In the example in Figure 9, the connection objects CN1 to CN3 are indicated by arrows, but the types of connection objects CN1 to CN3 are not particularly limited. In other examples, connection objects CN1 to CN3 may be represented by solid lines, dashed lines, enclosures, or other forms that can represent the connection relationship.

[0103] Furthermore, the equipment setting screen 700 is configured to accept an operation to associate the conveying device 300 with a set of processes that are executed consecutively within the processes included in the processing flow. For example, this operation can be accepted by buttons BT1 to BT3.

[0104] Button BT1 is displayed in association with connection object CN1, which connects equipment objects OB2A and OB2B. When the user presses button BT1, the transport device 300 can be configured for transport between the processing equipment corresponding to equipment objects OB2A and OB2B.

[0105] Button BT2 is displayed in association with connection object CN2, which connects equipment objects OB2B and OB2C. When the user presses button BT2, the transport device 300 can be configured for transport between the processing equipment corresponding to equipment objects OB2B and OB2C.

[0106] Button BT3 is displayed in association with connection object CN3, which connects equipment objects OB2C and OB2D. When the user presses button BT3, the transport device 300 can be configured for transport between the processing equipment corresponding to equipment objects OB2C and OB2D.

[0107] For example, suppose the user presses button BT2, which is associated with the connected object CN2. Based on this, the control device 100 displays the transport setting screen 900 shown in Figure 11.

[0108] Figure 11 shows an example of the transport settings screen 900. The transport settings screen 900 accepts settings for the transport device 300 and transport conditions (for example, operating parameters) for the transport device 300.

[0109] For example, the transport settings screen 900 includes a display field 910, a selection field 912, a selection field 914, a selection field 916, a cancel button 930, and a save button 932.

[0110] The display area 910 shows the equipment object OB2B representing the source equipment, the process object OB1B assigned to equipment object OB2B, the equipment object OB2C representing the destination equipment, and the process object OB1C assigned to equipment object OB2C. This visually indicates which equipment the conveying device 300 is configured to connect.

[0111] The selection field 912 includes an expand button. Based on the pressing of this expand button, a list of selectable conveying devices 300 is displayed. The user can select one conveying device 300 from this list. Information on the selectable conveying devices 300 is defined, for example, in the equipment information 124 described above.

[0112] The selection field 914 includes an expand button. Based on the press of this expand button, a list of configurable transport speeds for the transport device 300 selected in the selection field 912 is displayed. The user can select one transport speed from this list. The transport speed options may be represented numerically or as speed levels such as high speed, medium speed, and low speed.

[0113] The selection bar 916 includes an expansion button. Based on the pressing of the expansion button, a list of the types of hands (gripping mechanisms) used by the transport device 300 selected in the selection bar 912 during transport is displayed. The user can select one hand type from the list.

[0114] When the cancel button 930 is pressed, the control device 100 discards the content being edited on the transport setting screen 900 and closes the transport setting screen 900. On the other hand, when the save button 932 is pressed, the control device 100 saves the content set for the transport setting screen 900 to the above-described setting information 128.

[0115] FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the device setting screen 700 after the transport device 300 is set on the transport setting screen 900. As shown in FIG. 12, the control device 100 displays the connection object CN5B based on the fact that the transport device 300 is set by pressing the button BT2.

[0116] The connection object CN5B connects the device object OB2E representing the transport device 300 and the connection object CN2 between the device objects OB2B and OB2C. Thereby, the user can easily grasp which transport device �00 transports the workpiece between which processing devices.

[0117] Note that the setting of the transport device 300 does not necessarily have to be performed. As an example, there may be cases where the operator himself transports the workpiece or tools. In such cases, the user does not need to set the transport device 300 between the processing devices.

[0118] Similarly, the control device 100 displays the connection object CN5A based on the fact that the transport device 300 is set by pressing the button BT1. Similarly, the control device 100 displays the connection object CN5C based on the fact that the transport device 300 is set by pressing the button BT3.

[0119] <D. Setting Information 128> Next, referring to FIG. 13, the setting information 128 shown in FIG. 2 will be described. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the setting information 128.

[0120] The setting information 128 includes flow setting information 128A and device setting information 128B.

[0121] The flow setting information 128A defines the information set in the above-described basic information setting screen 550 and the above-described flow setting screen 600.

[0122] More specifically, the flow setting information 128A includes the flow name assigned to the processing flow, the work part number indicating the part number of the work to be processed, the type of the process object OB1, the arrangement order, the connection relationship, and the parameters associated with each process. These pieces of information are generated based on the user's operation content on the flow setting screen 600 and define the overall structure of the processing flow in the processing system 500.

[0123] The device setting information 128B defines the information set in the above-described device setting screen 700, the information set in the above-described program setting screen 800, and the information set in the above-described conveyance setting screen 900.

[0124] More specifically, the device setting information 128B stores the identifier of the device object OB2 assigned to each process object OB1 and includes the setting content associated with the device object OB2. The setting content includes, for example, the machining program and machining parameters set for the machine tool 250 and the conveyance parameters set for the conveyance device 300.

[0125] <E. Diversion Function> Next, referring to FIG. 14, the diversion function of the setting information 128 will be described. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of the automation system 5.

[0126] As shown in FIG. 14, the automation system 5 includes a plurality of control devices 100A and 100B. The control devices 100A and 100B are configured to communicate with each other via the network NW1.

[0127] The setting information 128 described in FIG. 13 is stored in the control device 100A. As described above, the setting information 128 includes flow setting information 128A and device setting information 128B.

[0128] A part of the setting information 128 set for the processing system 500A which is the control target of the control device 100A can also be diverted to other control devices 100B. As an example, among the setting information 128 set in the control device 100A, the flow setting information 128A is also diverted to another control device 100B.

[0129] In a certain aspect, the control device 100A transmits a copy of the flow setting information 128A to the control device 100B. Then, the user newly sets the device setting information 128B according to the device configuration of the processing system 500B on the control device 100B side. Thereby, when applying the same or similar processing flows to a plurality of processing systems 500A and 500B, it is possible to save the labor of setting the process configuration from scratch.

[0130] As described above, the control device 100A is configured to be communicable with other control devices 100B, and transmits the flow setting information 128A related to the processing flow set on the flow setting screen 600 to other control devices 100B. Thereby, the control device 100A causes the flow setting information 128A to be diverted to the settings in other control devices 100B.

[0131] Thereby, the setting work is made efficient, and the startup time of other processing systems 500B can be shortened.

[0132] <F. Command Generation Function> Next, the command generation function of the control device 100 will be explained with reference to Figure 15. Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of data flow between the control device 100, the machine tool 250, and the conveying device 300.

[0133] The control device 100 uses the above-mentioned setting information 128 to generate commands for operating the various devices that make up the processing system 500.

[0134] More specifically, the control device 100 includes, in terms of its functional configuration, a main control unit 150 and a command generation unit 152. The main control unit 150 and the command generation unit 152 are each independent software (programs).

[0135] Furthermore, the main control unit 150 and the command generation unit 152 do not need to be implemented in the same control device 100. Some of the functional configurations of the main control unit 150 and the command generation unit 152 may be implemented in a computer different from the control device 100.

[0136] The main control unit 150 sends a command generation request to the command generation unit 152 according to the machining flow defined in the setting information 128. The command generation unit 152 generates a command in response to the generation request received from the main control unit 150. The command generation unit 152 functions as an interface that absorbs differences in the types of machining equipment 200 to be controlled. Subsequently, the main control unit 150 sends the command to the target machining equipment 200.

[0137] As an example, suppose that in step S110, the timing for executing the transport process specified in the processing flow has arrived. Based on this, the main control unit 150 sends a request to the command generation unit 152 to generate a transport command for operating the target transport device 300. This generation request includes equipment setting information 128B related to the transport process specified in the setting information 128.

[0138] In step S112, the command generation unit 152 generates a transport command in response to a generation request from the main control unit 150 and sends the transport command to the main control unit 150.

[0139] Figure 16 shows an example of a transport command CM generated for the transport device 300.

[0140] As shown in Figure 16, the command generation unit 152 reflects the information specified in the setting information 128 into the transport command CM, and also includes supplementary information in the transport command CM. Examples of the setting information 128 reflected in the transport command CM include an identifier indicating the type of transported object, the workpiece part number mentioned above, the identifier of the transport device, the transport speed, and the type of hand. Examples of the supplementary information included in the transport command CM include coordinate information indicating the position of the machine tool 250 from which the transport is being carried, coordinate information indicating the position of the machine tool 250 to which the transport is being carried, and the location indicating the clamping position of the workpiece. As a result, the command generation unit 152 generates a transport command CM for operating the transport device 300.

[0141] The positions of the machining equipment 200, such as the machine tool 250, are predetermined, for example, in the equipment information 124 mentioned above.

[0142] Referring again to Figure 15, in step S120, the main control unit 150 transmits the transport command generated in step S112 to the target transport device 300. As a result, the transport device 300 operates in accordance with the transport command.

[0143] Assume that the transport process of the transport device 300 has been completed successfully. Based on this, in step S122, the transport device 300 transmits a signal to the main control unit 150 indicating that the transport has been completed successfully.

[0144] In step S130, the main control unit 150 starts the next step in the machining flow. Let's assume that the next step is a machining step. In this case, the main control unit 150 sends a request to the command generation unit 152 to generate a machining command for operating the target machine tool 250. This generation request includes equipment setting information 128B related to the machining step as defined in the setting information 128.

[0145] In step S132, the command generation unit 152 generates a processing command in response to the generation request and sends the processing command to the main control unit 150. The generation request includes equipment setting information 128B related to the processing process as defined in the setting information 128.

[0146] In step S140, the main control unit 150 transmits the machining command generated in step S132 to the target machine tool 250. This machining command includes the machining program set on the program setting screen 800 described above. Alternatively, if the machining program is pre-installed on the target machine tool 250, the machining command includes an instruction to execute the machining program instead of the machining program itself.

[0147] The machine tool 250 operates in response to machining commands received from the main control unit 150. Subsequently, it is assumed that the machining process in the machine tool 250 has been successfully completed. Based on this, in step S142, the machine tool 250 transmits a signal to the main control unit 150 indicating that the machining has been successfully completed.

[0148] As described above, the command generation unit 152 absorbs differences such as the types of processing equipment 200 and the types of conveying devices 300, and provides an interface for uniformly generating commands. As a result, the main control unit 150 can control the processing system 500 integrally based on the setting information 128 without having to be aware of the specific specifications of each piece of equipment.

[0149] <G.ストッカー240> The above control device 100 executes processing on various devices specified in the above device setting information 128B in accordance with the processing flow specified in the above flow setting information 128A. At that time, the transfer device 300 unloads the workpiece from the stocker 240 or loads the workpiece into the stocker 240.

[0150] Hereinafter, an example of the stocker 240 will be described with reference to FIG. 17. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a multi-stage stocker 240.

[0151] FIG. 17 shows a stocker 240 having a plurality of trays TR1 to TR4. Hereinafter, when the trays TR1 to TR4 are not particularly distinguished, the trays TR1 to TR4 are also simply referred to as tray TR.

[0152] The tray TR has a plurality of pockets. Each pocket is an area partitioned on the tray TR1 and functions as a housing portion for the workpiece W. One or more workpieces W can be placed in one pocket.

[0153] The shape of each pocket is arbitrary. As an example, the shape of the pocket may be a partitioned box shape or a recessed shape.

[0154] The number of pockets formed in each of the trays TR1 to TR4 may be the same or different. Also, the sizes of the pockets formed in each of the trays TR1 to TR4 may be the same or different.

[0155] Note that FIG. 17 shows a stocker 240 composed of four stages of trays TR1 to TR4, but the number of stages of the stocker 240 may be one stage or two or more stages.

[0156] <H. Display function> Workpieces in various states such as the raw material workpiece before processing, the workpiece in process, and the finished workpiece after processing can be placed on the stocker 240.

[0157] It is difficult for an operator to grasp the processing progress of each workpiece simply by looking at each workpiece placed in the stocker 240. Therefore, the control device 100 provides a user interface for displaying the status of each workpiece placed in the stocker 240.

[0158] The following describes an example of a screen that displays the status of the stocker 240, with reference to Figures 18 and 19. Figure 18 is a diagram of a schematic display screen 950 that shows a general overview of the processing progress of each workpiece in the stocker 240. Figure 19 is a diagram of a detailed display screen 960 that shows a detailed overview of the processing progress of each workpiece in the stocker 240.

[0159] As shown in Figure 18, the schematic display screen 950 displays the machining progress of the workpiece for each of the trays TR1 to TR4 provided in the stocker 240. As an example, the schematic display screen 950 has display fields 952A to 952D.

[0160] Display area 952A displays the machining progress of the workpiece placed on tray TR1 as described above. For example, display area 952A displays the status map MPA and information about tray TR1.

[0161] The state map MPA consists of multiple cells. Each of these cells corresponds to one of the multiple pockets formed in tray TR1. In other words, the number of cells in the state map MPA is the same as the number of pockets formed in tray TR1.

[0162] As described above, multiple workpieces can be placed in each pocket. The control device 100 displays the processing progress of these multiple workpieces in an integrated manner in each cell of the state map MPA. The display modes for each cell include a display mode indicating "finished product," a display mode indicating "work in progress," a display mode indicating "raw material," and a display mode indicating "empty." Each display mode is distinguished, for example, by color.

[0163] Information about tray TR1 displayed in display area 952A includes, for example, the size of each pocket in tray TR1, the number of pocket layers in tray TR1, and the number of empty pockets in tray TR1. The pocket size is indicated, for example, by length, width, and height.

[0164] Display area 952B displays the machining progress of the workpiece placed on tray TR2 as described above. For example, display area 952B displays the status map MPB and information about tray TR2.

[0165] The state map MPB consists of multiple cells. Each of these cells corresponds to one of the multiple pockets formed in tray TR2. In other words, the number of cells in the state map MPB is the same as the number of pockets formed in tray TR2.

[0166] As described above, multiple workpieces can be placed in each pocket. The control device 100 displays the processing progress of these multiple workpieces in an integrated manner in each cell of the state map MPB. The display modes for each cell include a display mode indicating "finished product," a display mode indicating "work in progress," a display mode indicating "raw material," and a display mode indicating "empty." Each display mode is distinguished, for example, by color.

[0167] Information about tray TR2 displayed in display field 952B includes, for example, the size of each pocket in tray TR2, the number of pocket layers in tray TR2, and the number of empty pockets in tray TR2. The pocket size is indicated, for example, by length, width, and height.

[0168] Display area 952C displays the machining progress of the workpiece placed on tray TR3 as described above. For example, display area 952C displays the status map MPC and information about tray TR3.

[0169] The state map MPC consists of multiple cells. Each of these cells corresponds to one of the multiple pockets formed in tray TR3. In other words, the number of cells in the state map MPC is the same as the number of pockets formed in tray TR3.

[0170] As described above, multiple workpieces can be placed in each pocket. The control device 100 displays the processing progress of these multiple workpieces in an integrated manner in each cell of the status map MPC. The display modes for each cell include a display mode indicating "finished product," a display mode indicating "work in progress," a display mode indicating "raw material," and a display mode indicating "empty." Each display mode is distinguished, for example, by color.

[0171] The information displayed in display field 952C for tray TR3 includes, for example, the size of each pocket in tray TR3, the number of pocket layers in tray TR3, and the number of empty pockets in tray TR3. The pocket size is indicated, for example, by length, width, and height.

[0172] Display area 952D displays the machining progress of the workpiece placed on tray TR4 as described above. For example, display area 952D displays the status map MPD and information about tray TR4.

[0173] The state map MPD consists of multiple cells. Each of these cells corresponds to one of the multiple pockets formed in tray TR4. In other words, the number of cells in the state map MPD is the same as the number of pockets formed in tray TR4.

[0174] As described above, multiple workpieces can be placed in each pocket. The control device 100 displays the processing progress of these multiple workpieces in an integrated manner in each cell of the state map MPD. The display modes for each cell include a display mode indicating "finished product," a display mode indicating "work in progress," a display mode indicating "raw material," and a display mode indicating "empty." Each display mode is distinguished, for example, by color.

[0175] Examples of the information about tray TR4 displayed in display column 952D include, for example, the size of each pocket in tray TR4, the number of layers of pockets in tray TR4, the number of empty pockets in tray TR4, etc. The size of a pocket is indicated by, for example, the vertical width, the horizontal width, and the height.

[0176] The schematic display screen 950 shown in FIG. 18 and the detailed display screen 960 shown in FIG. 19 are configured to be sequentially switchable according to the operator's operation. As an example, the operator displays the schematic display screen 950 during the execution of processing. Then, when the operator wants to check the progress of the processing in more detail, the operator selects any one of the display columns 952A - 952D. Thereby, the control device 100 displays the detailed display screen 960 for the tray TR corresponding to the selected display column.

[0177] In the example of FIG. 19, the detailed display screen 960 related to tray TR4 is shown. As shown in FIG. 19, the detailed display screen 960 has a display column 962 and a display column 964. <LLID=

[0178] Information about tray TR4 is displayed in display column 962. Examples of the information displayed include, for example, the size of each pocket in tray TR4, the number of layers of pockets in tray TR4, the number of empty pockets in tray TR4, etc. The size of a pocket is indicated by, for example, the vertical width, the horizontal width, and the height.

[0179] In display column 964, an image IMP representing the pockets formed in tray TR4 and an image IMW representing the workpieces placed in each pocket are displayed. Also, in the image IMW of the workpiece, the processing progress status of the workpiece is displayed. The display modes of the processing progress status include a display mode indicating "finished product", a display mode indicating "in - process product", and a display mode indicating "raw material". Each display mode is distinguished by, for example, color. <LLID=

[0180] <I. Rules of mapping> Next, referring to Figure 20, we will explain the mapping rules for generating the state maps MPA to MPD described above. Figure 20 is a schematic diagram showing the mapping process. In the following explanation, for convenience, unless otherwise specified, the state maps MPA to MPD will also be referred to as state map MP.

[0181] As described above, multiple workpieces can be placed in each pocket formed in the tray TR of the stocker 240. The control device 100 displays the processing progress of these multiple workpieces in the respective cells of the status map MP.

[0182] In this process, the control device 100 generates a state map MP according to the following rules. More specifically, if all workpieces in the same pocket are finished products, the control device 100 displays the cell corresponding to that pocket in the "finished product" display mode.

[0183] Furthermore, if all workpieces in the same pocket are raw material workpieces, the control device 100 displays the cell corresponding to that pocket in the "Raw Material" display mode.

[0184] Furthermore, if no workpiece is present in a pocket, the control device 100 indicates the corresponding cell in an "empty" display mode.

[0185] Furthermore, if even one workpiece in the process of being processed is present in a pocket, the control device 100 displays the corresponding cell in the "work in progress" display mode.

[0186] In the example shown in Figure 20, tray TR has pockets P1 to P4. Assume that all workpieces W in pocket P1 are finished products. In this case, the control device 100 displays the mass SQ1 corresponding to pocket P1 in the "finished product" display mode.

[0187] Furthermore, pocket P2 is assumed to contain three finished workpieces W and one work-in-progress workpiece W. In this case, the control device 100 displays the cell SQ2 corresponding to pocket P2 in the "work-in-progress" display mode. Note that even if pocket P2 contains three finished workpieces W and one raw material workpiece W, the raw material workpiece W may be considered a workpiece in the process of being processed, and cell SQ2 may be displayed in the "work-in-progress" display mode.

[0188] Furthermore, all workpieces W in pocket P3 are assumed to be raw material workpieces that have not yet been processed. In this case, the control device 100 displays the mass SQ3 corresponding to pocket P3 in the "raw material" display mode.

[0189] Furthermore, let's assume that there are no workpieces W in pocket P4. In this case, the control device 100 displays the cell SQ4 corresponding to pocket P4 in an "empty" state.

[0190] The display mode of the status map MP is updated in real time according to the progress of machining by the control device 100 and the machine tool 250, and the status of workpiece transport by the transport device 300.

[0191] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0192] 5 Automation system, 10 Management device, 100 Control device, 100A Control device, 100B Control device, 101 Control circuit, 102 ROM, 103 RAM, 104 Communication interface, 105 Display interface, 106 Display, 107 Input interface, 108 Input device, 110 Bus, 120 Auxiliary storage device, 122 Design support program, 123 Control program, 124 Equipment information, 128 Setting information, 128A Flow setting information, 128B Equipment setting information, 150 Main control unit, 152 Command generation unit, 200 Processing equipment, 240 Stocker, 250 Machine tool, 300 Conveying device, 500 Processing system, 500A Processing system, 500B Processing system, 550 Basic information setting screen, 552 Setting field, 554 Setting field, 600 Flow setting screen, 602 Input field, 604 Input field, 610; Settings field, 620; Display field, 630; Cancel button, 632; Generate button, 700; Device settings screen, 712; Selection field, 714; Display field, 720; Display field, 800; Program settings screen, 810; Display field, 812; Input field, 820; Upload button, 830; Cancel button, 832; Save button, 900; Transport settings screen, 910; Display field, 912; Selection field, 914; Selection field, 916; Selection field, 930; Cancel button, 932; Save button, 950; Overview display screen, 952A; Display field, 952B; Display field, 952C; Display field, 952D; Display field, 960; Detailed display screen, 962; Display field, 964; Display field, BT1 button, BT2 button, BT3 button, CM transport command, CN1 connection object, CN2 connection object, CN3 Connection object, CN5A connection object, CN5B connection object, CN5C connection object, IMP image, IMW image, MP state map, MPA state map, MPB state map, MPC state map, MPD state map, NW1 network, NW2 network, OB1 process object, OB1A process object, OB1B process object, OB1C process object, OB1D process object, OB1F process object, OB1G process object, OB1H process object, OB1I process object, OB1JProcess object, OB1K Process object, OB1L Process object, OB2 Equipment object, OB2A Equipment object, OB2B Equipment object, OB2C Equipment object, OB2D Equipment object, OB2E Equipment object, P1 Pocket, P2 Pocket, P3 Pocket, P4 Pocket, SQ1 Mass, SQ2 Mass, SQ3 Mass, SQ4 Mass, TR Tray, TR1 Tray, TR2 Tray, TR3 Tray, TR4 Tray, W Work.

Claims

1. A control device for a processing system, The aforementioned processing system is Multiple pieces of equipment used in processing the workpiece, The system includes a conveying device for conveying an object to one of the aforementioned plurality of devices, The control device is A process that displays a first setting screen that accepts the setting of a processing flow including multiple processes related to the conveyed object and the execution order of said multiple processes, For each step included in the processing flow, the process of displaying a second setting screen that accepts a first operation to associate one of the multiple devices is executed. In the second settings screen, Multiple process objects, each corresponding to one of the multiple processes included in the aforementioned processing flow, Multiple device objects corresponding to each of the aforementioned multiple devices are displayed. The control device includes an operation in which the first operation involves assigning each of the plurality of process objects to one of the plurality of equipment objects.

2. The control device according to claim 1, wherein the second setting screen is further configured to accept a second operation to associate the transport device with a set of processes that are executed consecutively among the processes included in the processing flow.

3. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the control device displays a connection object indicating the connection between a first equipment object and a second equipment object, based on the fact that a set of process objects relating to processes in which execution order is consecutive among the processes included in the processing flow has been assigned to a first equipment object and a second equipment object among the plurality of equipment objects, respectively.

4. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, further configured to communicate with other control devices, and to transmit the setting information relating to the processing flow set on the first setting screen to the other control device, and to allow it to be used in the settings of the other control device.

5. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the conveyed object includes at least one of a workpiece, a tool, and a pallet.

6. The control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of devices include at least one of a machine tool, a stocker for the conveyed material, and a measuring device.

7. A design support method for supporting the design of a machining flow related to a machining system, The aforementioned processing system is Multiple pieces of equipment used in processing the workpiece, The system includes a conveying device for conveying an object to one of the aforementioned plurality of devices, The aforementioned design support method is A step of displaying a first setting screen that accepts the setting of a processing flow including a plurality of processes related to the conveyed object and the execution order of said plurality of processes, The process includes a step of displaying a second setting screen that accepts a first operation to associate one of the multiple devices with each step included in the processing flow, In the second settings screen, Multiple process objects, each corresponding to one of the multiple processes included in the aforementioned processing flow, Multiple device objects corresponding to each of the aforementioned multiple devices are displayed simultaneously. The first operation is a design support method that includes an operation to assign each of the plurality of process objects to one of the plurality of equipment objects.

8. A design support program for assisting in the design of the processing flow related to a processing system, The aforementioned processing system is Multiple pieces of equipment used in processing the workpiece, The system includes a conveying device for conveying an object to one of the aforementioned plurality of devices, The aforementioned design support program is provided to the computer, A process that displays a first setting screen that accepts the setting of a processing flow including multiple processes related to the conveyed object and the execution order of said multiple processes, For each step included in the processing flow, the process is executed to display a second setting screen that accepts a first operation to associate one of the multiple devices, In the second settings screen, Multiple process objects, each corresponding to one of the multiple processes included in the aforementioned processing flow, Multiple device objects corresponding to each of the aforementioned multiple devices are displayed simultaneously. The first operation is a design support program that includes an operation to assign each of the plurality of process objects to one of the plurality of equipment objects.

Images