Machinery management methods, machinery management systems, and machinery management programs

Abstract

To provide a work machine management method, a work machine management system, and a work machine management program that can identify the operating state of a work machine in an easy-to-understand manner.SOLUTION: A work machine management method includes the steps of: preparing work plan information (323, 523) that represents a work plan, and that includes target work area information representing target work areas (91, 92) in a farm field (9) where work carried out by using a work machine (2) is planned; determining whether the latest position of the work machine (2) is within the target work areas (91, 92) on the basis of machine information including at least position information representing the latest position of the work machine (2) and the work plan information (323, 523) (S3); and outputting diagram information representing a diagram for displaying whether the latest position of the work machine (2) is within the target work areas (91, 92) in an identifiable manner (S5).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a work machine management method, a work machine management system, and a work machine management program, and can be suitably used for, for example, a work machine management method, a work machine management system, and a work machine management program related to a machine for performing agricultural work.

Background Art

[0002] When a plurality of work machines perform agricultural work in a plurality of fields according to a work plan, there is a need for means to remotely manage each work machine. In particular, there is a need for means to manage work machines so that a manager, an operator, and a work assistant can easily grasp their respective operating statuses.

[0003] In relation to the above, Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2014-38437) discloses a ground working management system. This ground working management system acquires positioning information and a machine body ID from each of a plurality of ground working machines that perform agricultural work or the like, and displays the position and machine body ID of each ground working machine on a remote display so as to be shown on a map. By doing so, it becomes possible to remotely grasp the positions of each ground working machine. However, in the ground working management system according to Patent Document 1, although the positions of a plurality of ground working machines can be grasped on a map, it is difficult to instantaneously grasp whether each ground working machine is in the field or on a road near the field. Further, in the ground working management system according to Patent Document 1, it is also difficult to instantaneously grasp whether a ground working machine in the field is working or not working.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In view of the above circumstances, one of the objectives of this disclosure is to provide a work machine management method, a work machine management system, and a work machine management program that can easily identify the operating status of work machines. Other challenges and novel features will become apparent from the description herein and the accompanying drawings. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The following describes the means for solving the problem using the numbers used in (Modes for Carrying Out the Invention). These numbers are added to clarify the correspondence between the description in (Claims) and (Modes for Carrying Out the Invention). However, these numbers should not be used to interpret the technical scope of the invention described in (Claims).

[0007] According to one embodiment, the work machine management method includes: a storage device (32, 52) providing work plan information (323, 523) which represents a work plan and at least includes target work area information which represents the target work area (91, 92) in the field (9) where work by the work machine (2) is planned; a determination unit (312, 512) determining whether the work machine (2) is in the target work area (91, 92) based on machine information which at least includes position information which represents the latest position of the work machine (2) and the work plan information (323, 523) (S3); and an output unit (313, 513) outputting graphic information which represents graphics (7A~7F) for displaying whether the latest position of the work machine (2) is in the target work area (91, 92) in an identifiable manner (S5).

[0008] According to one embodiment, the work machine management system (1) comprises a memory device (32, 52), a determination unit (312, 512), and an output unit (313, 513). The memory device (32, 52) provides work plan information (323, 523) which represents a work plan and includes at least target work area information representing the target work area (91, 92) in the field (9) where work by the work machine (2) is planned. The determination unit (312, 512) determines whether the work machine (2) is in the target work area (91, 92) based on machine information which includes at least position information representing the latest position of the work machine (2) and the work plan information (323, 523). The output unit (313, 513) outputs graphic information which represents graphics (7A to 7F) for displaying whether the latest position of the work machine (2) is in the target work area (91, 92) in an identifiable manner.

[0009] According to one embodiment, the work machine management program is for performing predetermined processing by being executed by the arithmetic unit (31, 51). This processing includes preparing work plan information (323, 523) which represents a work plan and includes at least target work area information which represents the target work area (91, 92) in the field (9) where work by the work machine (2) is planned; determining whether the work machine (2) is in the target work area (91, 92) based on machine information which includes at least position information which represents the latest position of the work machine (2) and the work plan information (532) (S3); and outputting graphic information (7A~7F) which represents graphics that can identify whether the latest position of the work machine (2) is in the target work area (91, 92) (S5). [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to one embodiment, the work machine management system can assist users in identifying the operating status of work machines. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 shows an example configuration of a work machine management system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block circuit diagram showing a configuration example of an in-vehicle terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block circuit diagram showing a configuration example of a terminal according to an embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block circuit diagram showing a configuration example of a server according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a configuration example of a machine tool management method according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a table showing an example of a figure according to an embodiment. [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A is a table showing an example of components of a figure according to an embodiment. [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a table showing an example of components of a figure according to an embodiment. [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C is a table showing an example of components of a figure according to an embodiment. [Figure 8A] FIG. 8A is a diagram showing an example of a display according to an embodiment. [Figure 8B] FIG. 8B is a diagram showing an example of a display according to an embodiment. [Figure 8C] FIG. 8C is a diagram showing an example of a display according to an embodiment. [Figure 9A] FIG. 9A is a diagram showing an example of a display according to an embodiment. [Figure 9B] FIG. 9B is a diagram showing an example of a display according to an embodiment. [[ID=T39]]<T [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a table showing an example of a display according to an embodiment. <T <T0000R83> MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION <T <T <T

[0012] <T Embodiments for implementing a machine tool management method, a machine tool management system, and a machine tool management program according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. <T <T

[0013] <T (First Embodiment) <T As shown in FIG. 1, a work machine management system 1 according to an embodiment includes an in-vehicle terminal 20 mounted on a work machine 2, a terminal 3, and a server 5. The work machine 2 is a vehicle that performs agricultural work in a field 9, such as a harvester, a tractor equipped with a work implement, a transplanter, or the like. The in-vehicle terminal 20 can be connected to a network 4 by performing wireless communication using an antenna 232 or the like. The terminal 3 can be connected to the network 4 by performing wired communication or wireless communication or the like. The terminal 3 can substantially obtain various types of information in real time from the in-vehicle terminal 20 that works in the field 9 via the network 4. The terminal 3 is, for example, a tablet-type information terminal having a wireless communication function.

[0014] The server 5 and the terminal 3 may overlap in configuration for realizing some functions. Hereinafter, the case where the terminal 3 and the server 5 overlap in the same configuration will be described, but the overlapping configuration can be omitted from the terminal 3 or the server 5.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 2, the in-vehicle terminal 20 according to an embodiment may have a configuration as a so-called computer. The in-vehicle terminal 20 includes a bus 200, an arithmetic unit 210, a storage device 220, and an input / output device 230. The arithmetic unit 210, the storage device 220, and the input / output device 230 are communicably connected to each other via the bus 200.

[0016] The arithmetic unit 210 virtually includes a transmission unit 211. The transmission unit 211 is a functional block that realizes a predetermined function when the arithmetic unit 210 executes a transmission program 222. The transmission program �222 is stored in the storage device 220. The transmission program 222 may be read from a recording medium 221 and stored in the storage device 220, or may be acquired from the outside via the input / output device 230 and stored in the storage device 220.

[0017] The input / output device 230 includes a communication device 231, a positioning device 233, an output device 234, an input device 235, and a detection device 236. The communication device 231 can connect to the network 4 via an antenna 232 and communicate with the terminal 3 and / or server 5 via the network 4. The antenna 232 may be part of the in-vehicle terminal 20, or it may be part of something other than the in-vehicle terminal 20, such as a work machine 2. The positioning device 233 acquires position information indicating its own position by using GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System). The position information acquired by the positioning device 233 represents the position of the in-vehicle terminal 20, and therefore represents the position of the work machine 2 on which the in-vehicle terminal 20 is mounted. The output device 234 may include, for example, a display device or a lamp, and may output arbitrary information representing the status of the in-vehicle terminal 20. The input device 235 may include, for example, a switch or a button, and may be used by a user to operate the in-vehicle terminal 20. The detection device 236 receives a work machine status signal from the work machine 2 that indicates the status of the work machine 2.

[0018] As shown in Figure 3, terminal 3 according to one embodiment may have a configuration that is a so-called computer. Terminal 3 comprises a bus 30, an arithmetic unit 31, a storage device 32, and an input / output device 33. The arithmetic unit 31, the storage device 32, and the input / output device 33 are connected to each other via the bus 30 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0019] The arithmetic unit 31 virtually includes an information acquisition unit 311, a determination unit 312, and an output unit 313. Each of the information acquisition unit 311, the determination unit 312, and the output unit 313 is a functional block that realizes a predetermined function when the arithmetic unit 31 executes the work machine management program 321. The functions of these functional blocks will be described later.

[0020] The storage device 32 stores the work machine management program 321, map information 322, and work plan information 323. The map information 322 includes, for example, information representing the location and extent of field 9. The work plan information 323 includes information representing the work plan that work machine 2 will perform in field 9. The work machine management program 321, map information 322, and work plan information 323 may be read from the recording medium 320 and stored in the storage device 32, or they may be acquired from an external source via the input / output device 33 and stored in the storage device 32.

[0021] The input / output device 33 comprises a communication device 331, a display device 332, and an input device 333. The communication device 331 can connect to the network 4 via wired communication and / or wireless communication, and can communicate with the in-vehicle terminal 20 and / or server 5 via the network 4. The display device 332 displays the results determined by the determination unit 312 of the arithmetic unit 31 in a visually verifiable manner. The input device 333 may include, for example, a touchpad or buttons, and may be used by the user to operate the terminal 3. The display device 332 and the input device 333 may be implemented in the terminal 3 as an integrated touch panel.

[0022] As shown in Figure 4, a server 5 according to one embodiment has the same components as the terminal 3 shown in Figure 3. A server 5 according to one embodiment may have a configuration as a so-called computer. The server 5 includes a bus 50, an arithmetic unit 51, a storage device 52, and an input / output device 53. The arithmetic unit 51, the storage device 52, and the input / output device 53 are connected to each other via the bus 50 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0023] The arithmetic unit 51 virtually includes an information acquisition unit 511, a determination unit 512, and an output unit 513. Each of the information acquisition unit 511, the determination unit 512, and the output unit 513 is a functional block that realizes a predetermined function when the arithmetic unit 51 executes the work machine management program 521.

[0024] The storage device 52 stores the work machine management program 521, map information 522, and work plan information 523. The map information 522 represents at least the location and extent of the field 9. The work plan information 523 represents at least the contents of a work plan that pre-determines which work machine 2 will perform work in which field 9. The work machine management program 521, the map information 522, and the work plan information 523 may be read from the recording medium 520 and stored in the storage device 52, or they may be acquired from an external source via the input / output device 53 and stored in the storage device 52.

[0025] The input / output device 53 comprises a communication device 531, a display device 532, and an input device 533. The communication device 531 can connect to the network 4 via wired communication and / or wireless communication, and can communicate with the in-vehicle terminal 20 and / or terminal 3 via the network 4. The display device 532 displays and outputs the result determined by the determination unit 512 of the arithmetic unit 51 in a visible manner. The input device 533 may include, for example, a keyboard or mouse, and may be used by a user to operate the server 5. The display device 532 and the input device 533 may be implemented on the server 5 as an integrated touch panel.

[0026] The configuration of the machine management method according to one embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 5. Here, one example of the configuration of the machine management method according to one embodiment is also an example of the operation of the machine management system 1 according to one embodiment. Furthermore, the flowchart in Figure 5 also shows one example of the configuration of the machine management program 321 according to one embodiment.

[0027] The flowchart in Figure 5 is initiated, for example, when a user operates the server 5 to start the work machine management program 521. Once the flowchart in Figure 5 is initiated, step S1 is executed.

[0028] In step S1, the arithmetic unit 51 of the server 5 implements the functions of the information acquisition unit 511 by executing the work machine management program 521. The information acquisition unit 511 acquires machine information from the on-board terminals 20 of the work machines 2, for example, via the network 4. The information acquisition unit 511 may also acquire machine information from multiple on-board terminals 20, each mounted on multiple work machines 2.

[0029] Here, the in-vehicle terminal 20 may continue to transmit machine information regardless of whether the server 5 is ready to receive the machine information.

[0030] The machine information includes at least position information representing the latest position of the work machine 2. The latest position of the work machine 2 is the position represented by the positioning information obtained by last measuring the position of the on-board terminal 20. The arithmetic unit 210 of the on-board terminal 20 realizes the function of the transmission unit 211 by executing the transmission program 222. The transmission unit 211 controls the positioning device 233 to acquire positioning information and stores the positioning information in the storage device 220 in association with positioning time information representing the time the positioning information was acquired. The transmission unit 211 repeats the acquisition of positioning information at each of multiple time points. For example, the transmission unit 211 may acquire positioning information periodically. Alternatively, for example, the transmission unit 211 may acquire positioning information every minute.

[0031] The in-vehicle terminal 20 starts up in conjunction with the user starting the work machine 2. When the in-vehicle terminal 20 starts up, the computing unit 210 automatically executes the transmission program 222. When the transmission program 222 is executed, the transmission unit 211 automatically starts acquiring positioning information. The transmission unit 211 generates machine information that includes at least the positioning information and controls the communication device 231 to transmit the machine information to the server 5.

[0032] The information acquisition unit 511 of server 5 stores the acquired machine information in the storage device 52. In addition to location information, the machine information may also include operational status information that indicates the operating status of the work machine 2. Details of the operational status information will be described later.

[0033] After step S1, step S2 is executed. In step S2, the arithmetic unit 51 of the server 5 implements the function of the determination unit 512 by executing the work machine management program 521. The determination unit 512 determines whether the latest position of the work machine 2 is inside the field 9. To make this determination, the determination unit 512 reads the latest position of the work machine 2 by referring to machine information on the one hand, and reads field information representing the location and range of the field 9 by referring to map information 522 on the other hand. The determination unit 512 determines that the work machine 2 is inside the field 9 if the latest position of the work machine 2 is included in the range of the field 9, and determines that the work machine 2 is outside the field 9 otherwise. The determination unit 512 stores the first determination information representing the result of this determination in the storage device 52.

[0034] When the determination unit 512 determines that the latest position of the work machine 2 is within the field 9, it further determines whether or not the work machine 2 was scheduled to perform work in this field 9. The work plan information 523 contains the details of the work plan in which the work machine 2 will perform work in each field 9. Here, the work plan information 523 includes target work area information that represents the target work area within the field 9 where the work machine 2 is scheduled to perform work. By referring to the work plan information 523, the determination unit 512 determines whether or not the field 9 where the work machine 2 is located is the target work area where the work machine 2 was scheduled to perform work. In other words, the work plan information 523 includes target work area information that represents the target work area. The determination unit 512 further stores second determination information representing the result of this determination in the storage device 52.

[0035] After step S2, step S3 is executed. In step S3, the arithmetic unit 51 of the server 5 further implements another function of the determination unit 512 by executing the work machine management program 521. The determination unit 512 further determines the operating status of the work machine 2. To perform this determination, the determination unit 512 reads operating status information that represents the operating status of the work machine 2, by referring to the machine information on the one hand.

[0036] The operating status information is described below. In one embodiment, the operating status of the work machine 2 is classified into idle state, non-working state, and working state. The state in which the work machine 2 is keyed off is called the idle state. The state in which the work machine 2 is keyed on and not performing any work is called the non-working state. The state in which the work machine 2 is keyed on and the parts of the work machine 2 that perform agricultural work are performing work is called the working state.

[0037] The method by which the transmission unit 211 of the in-vehicle terminal 20 transmits the operating status of the work machine 2 will be described. The transmission unit 211 receives work machine status signals that represent the state of the work machine 2 via the detection device 236. The work machine status signals include, for example, a signal indicating that the work machine 2 is in the key-on state, a signal indicating the movement speed of the work machine 2, and a signal indicating whether or not power is being transmitted to the parts of the work machine 2 that perform agricultural work. However, if the power of the in-vehicle terminal 20 is also turned off in conjunction with the work machine 2 being in a resting state, the function of the in-vehicle terminal 20 to identify that the work machine 2 is in a resting state may also be disabled. In this case, the transmission unit 211 does not need to receive a signal indicating that the work machine 2 is in the key-off state as part of the work machine status signals.

[0038] The transmission unit 21 generates machine information that includes at least positioning information and operating status information, and transmits this machine information to the information acquisition unit 511 of the server 5. The transmission unit 21 may store the generated machine information in the storage device 22 before transmitting it to the information acquisition unit 511.

[0039] The information acquisition unit 511 of the server 5 receives machine information, which includes at least location information and operating status information, and stores it in the storage device 52. The determination unit 512 of the server 5 reads the operating status information from the machine information stored in the storage device 52 and determines whether the work machine 2 was in a resting state, a non-working state, or a working state at the time indicated by the time information associated with this operating status information. The determination unit 512 further stores third determination information, which represents the result of the determination, in the storage device 52.

[0040] The determination unit 512 of server 5 controls the communication device 531 to transmit the first determination information, the second determination information, and the third determination information to terminal 3.

[0041] After step S3, step S4 is executed. In step S4, the arithmetic unit 31 of terminal 3 implements the functions of output unit 313 by executing the work machine management program 321. First, output unit 313 receives first determination information, second determination information, and third determination information from server 5 via communication device 331 and stores them in storage device 32. Next, output unit 313 determines an image (and / or graphic) to represent the operating status of work machine 2. More specifically, output unit 313 first generates graphic information representing a graphic to display whether or not the latest position of work machine 2 is in field 9, based on the result determined by the determination unit 512 of server 5 in step S2. Output unit 313 further reads map information 322 from storage device 32 and generates map image information representing a map image to display a map of the area surrounding work machine 2 and / or field 9. Output unit 313 then generates composite image information representing a composite image in which the graphic is superimposed on the map image. Here, the output unit 313 generates composite image information such that the figures are placed on the map and at a position corresponding to the latest position of the work machine 2 in the composite image. The output unit 313 further generates composite image information such that the position and range of the field 9 are displayed on the map in the composite image.

[0042] The generation of graphic information will now be explained. As shown in Figure 6, the graphics 7A to 7F according to one embodiment have different forms depending on the state of the work machine 2 so that the state of the work machine 2 can be easily identified. The state of the work machine 2 can be classified into a total of six types, for example, by combining two types that represent whether it is inside or outside the target work area, and three types that represent whether it is in a resting state, a non-working state, or a working state. The graphics 7A to 7F shown in Figure 6 correspond to these six types of states, respectively. When graphics 7A to 7F are not distinguished, they are simply referred to as graphics 7.

[0043] Referring to Figures 7A, 7B, and 7C, the components of figures 7A to 7F according to one embodiment will be described. As an example, Figure 7A shows three types of frame parts 71A, 71B, and 71C, and three types of arrow parts 72A, 72B, and 72C. As an example, Figure 7B shows two types of background parts 73A and 73B. As an example, Figure 7C shows four types of pictograms 74A, 74B, 74C, and 74D. When the frame parts 71A, 71B, and 71C are not distinguished, they are simply collectively referred to as frame part 71. When the arrow parts 72A, 72B, and 72C are not distinguished, they are simply collectively referred to as arrow part 72. When the background parts 73A and 73B are not distinguished, they are simply collectively referred to as background part 73. When the pictograms 74A, 74B, 74C, and 74D are not distinguished, they are simply collectively referred to as pictogram 74.

[0044] Figure 7 is formed by overlapping one frame portion 71, one arrow portion 72, one background portion 73, and one pictogram 74. More specifically, Figure 7 is formed by overlapping one frame portion 71 and one arrow portion 72 on one background portion 73, and then further overlapping one pictogram 74 on top of that. In other words, the frame portion 71, the arrow portion 72, the background portion 73, and the pictogram 74 are components of Figure 7.

[0045] In one embodiment, the frame portion 71A and the arrow portion 72A are used to indicate that the work machine 2 is in a resting state. The frame portions 71B and 71C and the arrow portions 72B and 72C are used to indicate that the work machine 2 is not in a resting state. In other words, the frame portions 71B and 71C and the arrow portions 72B and 72C are used to indicate that the work machine 2 is in a non-working state or in a working state.

[0046] In one embodiment, the frame portion 71B and the arrow portion 72B are used to indicate that the work machine 2 is not in a idle state and is within the target work area. The frame portion 71C and the arrow portion 72C are used to indicate that the work machine 2 is not in a idle state and is outside the target work area.

[0047] Here, the target work area is the field 9 in which the work machine 2 is scheduled to perform work. Therefore, it is preferable that the frame 71C and arrow 72C be displayed in a color that encourages caution, such as red, to warn the user that the work machine 2 is in a field 9 in which it is not scheduled to perform work and is not idle. Conversely, it is preferable that the frame 71B and arrow 72B be displayed in a color that evokes safety, such as green, to indicate to the user that the work machine 2 is performing work in the field 9 as planned, or that it has interrupted its work. It is preferable that the frame 71A and arrow 72A be displayed in a color that is different from both the frame 71B and arrow 72B, and the frame 71C and arrow 72C, such as gray, to indicate that the work machine 2 is idle.

[0048] In other words, the frame 71A and arrow 72A, the frame 71B and arrow 72B, and the frame 71C and arrow 72C are each represented in three easily identifiable forms. To illustrate this, in Figure 7A, the frame 71A and arrow 72A are shown in white, the frame 71B and arrow 72B are shown with relatively light hatching, and the frame 71C and arrow 72C are shown with hatching of medium density.

[0049] In one embodiment, the background section 73A is used to indicate that the work machine 2 is in a resting or non-working state. Conversely, the background section 73B is used to indicate that the work machine 2 is in a working state. Among the combinations of the background section 73 and the frame section 71, the combination that users would most want to pay attention to may be the combination that indicates that the work machine 2 is in a working state in a field 9 outside the target work area. In other words, as soon as such a combination is discovered, the user may contact the operator of the work machine 2 and instruct them to stop working. Therefore, it is preferable that the background section 73B is displayed in a way that is more conspicuous than the background section 73A when combined with the frame section 71C. To illustrate this, in Figure 7B, the background section 73A is shown in white outline, the upper half of the background section 73B is shown in white outline, and the lower half is shown with relatively dark hatching.

[0050] In one embodiment, pictogram 74 represents the type of work machine 2. As illustrated in Figure 7C, pictogram 74A representing a harvester, pictogram 74B representing a tractor capable of being fitted with work machines, pictogram 74C representing a transplanter, and pictogram 74D representing a truck schematically represent the respective work machines 2 in order to easily identify them. The type information representing the type of work machine 2 may be included in the machine information transmitted by the on-board terminal 20 mounted on the work machine 2. Alternatively, the type information representing the type of work machine 2 may be stored in the storage device 52 of the server 5 in association with the terminal identification ID of the on-board terminal 20 mounted on the work machine 2, and the type of work machine 2 may be identified based on the terminal identification ID transmitted by the on-board terminal 20.

[0051] Based on the above explanation, the configurations of figures 7A to 7F shown in Figure 6 will be explained again. Figure 7A is formed by superimposing a frame 71A and arrow 72A representing a resting state, a background 73A representing a resting state, and a pictogram 74A representing a harvester. Figure 7B is formed by superimposing a frame 71B and arrow 72B representing being within the target work area, a background 73A representing a non-working state, and a pictogram 74A representing a harvester. Figure 7C is formed by superimposing a frame 71B and arrow 72B representing being within the target work area, a background 73B representing a working state, and a pictogram 74A representing a harvester. Figure 7D is formed by superimposing a frame 71A and arrow 72A representing a resting state, a background 73A representing a resting state, and a pictogram 74A representing a harvester. Figure 7E is formed by superimposing a frame 71C and arrow 72C indicating that it is outside the target work area, a background 73A indicating a non-working state, and a pictogram 74A representing a harvesting machine. Figure 7F is formed by superimposing a frame 71C and arrow 72C indicating that it is outside the target work area, a background 73B indicating a working state, and a pictogram 74A representing a harvesting machine.

[0052] By forming figure 7 in this manner, users can easily identify whether the work machine 2 corresponding to figure 7 is in a resting state, a non-working state, or a working state, whether the work machine 2 is within the target work area, and the type of the work machine 2.

[0053] The output unit 313 may store graphic information representing the figure 7 formed in correspondence with the work machine 2 in the storage device 32.

[0054] When generating composite image information, the output unit 313 uses the lower end of the arrow portion 72 that constitutes the figure 7 as a reference point, and places the figure 7 on the map image so that this reference point represents the latest position of the work machine 2 in the map image. The output unit 313 may also store the generated composite image information in the storage device 32.

[0055] Step S5 is performed after step S4 as shown in Figure 5. In step S5, the arithmetic unit 31 of terminal 3 further realizes another function of the output unit 313 by executing the work machine management program 321. The output unit 313 displays an image. More specifically, the output unit 313 controls the display device 332 to display the composite image generated in step S4. In other words, the output unit 313 places and displays the location and extent of the field 9 on a map of the area including the field 9, and further places and displays the figure 7 at a position corresponding to the latest position of the work machine 2.

[0056] As an example of a composite image displayed on the display device 332, in Figure 8A, Figure 7B indicates that the first working machine 2, which is not in operation, is located within the target work area 9A where work by the first working machine 2 is planned. Here, the outline of the road is shown with a thin line, and the outline of fields, etc., is shown with a thicker line. Figure 7E indicates that the second working machine 2, which is not in operation, is located in an area 9B that is not a field. Next to Figure 7E, the string "NG" may be added and displayed as a warning to indicate the possibility of an abnormality in the operating status of the second working machine 2 corresponding to Figure 7E. By looking at Figure 7E, users can easily identify the possibility of an abnormality and promptly contact the worker scheduled to work with the second working machine 2 corresponding to Figure 7E for confirmation.

[0057] As another example of a composite image displayed on the display device 332, in Figure 8B, Figure 7B indicates that the first working machine 2, which is not in operation, is located within the target work area 9A where work by the first working machine 2 is planned. Here, the outline of the road is shown with a thin line, the target work area 9A is shown with a thick line, and other areas such as the field 9C are shown with lines of medium thickness. Figure 7E indicates that the second working machine 2, which is not in operation, is located within the field 9C, which is not part of the target work area. Next to Figure 7E, the string "NG" may be added and displayed as a warning to indicate the possibility of an abnormality in the state of the second working machine 2 corresponding to Figure 7E. By looking at Figure 7E, users can easily identify the possibility of an abnormality and promptly contact the worker scheduled to work with the working machine 2 corresponding to Figure 7E for confirmation.

[0058] As yet another example of a composite image displayed on the display device 332, in Figure 8C, Figure 7C indicates that the first working machine 2 is in operation within the target work area 9A where work by the first working machine 2 is planned, and is currently in operation. Here, the outline of the road is shown with a thin line, the target work area 9A is shown with a thick line, and other areas such as the field 9C are shown with a solid line of medium thickness. Furthermore, Figure 7F indicates that the second working machine 2 is in operation within the target work area 9C where work by the second working machine 2 is not planned. Next to Figure 7F, the string "NG" may be added and displayed as a warning to indicate the possibility of an abnormality in the state of the second working machine 2 corresponding to Figure 7F. By looking at Figure 7F, the user can easily identify the possibility of an abnormality and promptly contact the worker scheduled to work with the working machine 2 corresponding to Figure 7F for confirmation.

[0059] As shown in the examples in Figures 8A, 8B, and 8C, according to one embodiment, even if the working machine 2, which is not in a resting state, is in an area other than the field 9, or in a field 9 that is not the target work area, or in a target work area where work by the working machine 2 is not planned, the user can easily identify the possibility that there is an abnormality in the working machine 2, and can promptly contact the worker who is scheduled to work with the working machine 2 for confirmation.

[0060] The composite image displayed on the display device 332 may include additional images or figures representing further information, in addition to the map showing the location and extent of the field 9 and the figure 7 showing the latest location and operating status of the work machine 2. Examples of information represented by the additional images or figures include the trajectory of the work machine 2, contour lines distinguishing the target work area from other fields 9, the contents of the work plan, and interface images for controlling the display and hiding of this additional information.

[0061] As an example of a composite image with added information, in Figure 9A, an interface image 80 is added to the composite image in addition to the map and figure 7. The interface image 80 is provided with multiple switches. These switches may include a first switch 81 that allows the user to toggle the display of the movement path of the work machine 2 on and off. These switches may also include a second switch 82 that allows the user to toggle the display of contour lines that identify the field 9 on and off. Furthermore, these switches may include a third switch 83 that allows the user to toggle the display of contour lines that distinguish the target work area where work by the work machine 2 is planned from other fields 9 on and off. A fourth switch 84 may also be included that allows the progress status in each of the target work areas to be displayed in different colors. Furthermore, these switches may include a fifth switch (not shown in the figure) that allows the user to toggle the display of figure 7, the movement path, and the contour lines on and off all at once.

[0062] As another example of a composite image with added information, in the case of Figure 9B, in addition to the map shown in Figure 9A, the figure 7B, and the interface image 80, the trajectory 76A, 76B, and 76C of the work machine 2, and contour lines to distinguish the target work areas 91 and 92 from other fields are displayed.

[0063] Here, the trajectories 76A, 76B, and 76C of the work machine 2 are displayed in Figure 9B as a result of the first switch 81 being operated and turned ON. Trajectory 76A represents the trajectory of the work machine 2 from the starting point 75, moving within the target work area 91, and exiting the target work area 91. Trajectory 76B represents the trajectory of the work machine 2 from exiting the target work area 91, moving along the road, and entering the target work area 92. Trajectory 76C represents the trajectory of the work machine 2 after entering the target work area 92 and moving within the target work area 92. Figure 7B is placed on the map at a position corresponding to the latest position of the work machine 2. In addition to a mark on the map indicating the position of the starting point 75, the composite image may also display information indicating the start time of movement from this starting point 75.

[0064] Furthermore, in Figure 9B, the outline of the target work area, which includes the target work areas 91 and 92, is distinguished from the outline of the other fields. In the example of Figure 9B, the former is shown as a solid line and the latter as a dashed line, but one embodiment is not limited to this example, and for example, the two may be shown in different colors.

[0065] In this way, by adding and displaying additional information to the composite image, or by switching this display to a hidden state, users can more easily identify whether the work machine 2 is performing its work according to the work plan.

[0066] The display device 332 may display a table that shows the operating status of multiple work machines 2 in a list. As shown in Figure 10, such a table may include, for each work machine 2, a graphic 7, the identification name of the work machine 2, the identification name of the vehicle accompanying the work machine 2, the field where work is scheduled or currently being performed, the start time of work on the day, the most recent time when work was detected to be taking place, and so on.

[0067] In this table, the possibility of an anomaly may be indicated not only by using warning colors in Figure 7, but also by highlighting the cells corresponding to the parameters where an anomaly may be occurring.

[0068] For example, if the time when a certain work machine 2 starts work falls outside the pre-planned work schedule period, the cell representing the identification name of work machine 2 and the cell representing the corresponding work start time for work machine 2 are highlighted. Work schedule period information, which represents the work schedule period, is included in the work schedule information 323. In the example in Figure 10, the cell showing "HV 02" and the cell showing "AM 07:45" are highlighted with bold text and a hatched background.

[0069] As another example, if a certain work machine 2 is working in a field different from the one scheduled in the work plan, the cell representing the identification name of work machine 2 and the cell representing the field where work machine 2 is scheduled to work or is currently working will be highlighted. In the example in Figure 10, the cell showing "HV 06" and the cell showing "field Z" are highlighted with bold text and a hatched background.

[0070] In the example shown in Figure 10, cell highlighting is achieved using bold text and a hatched background, but the embodiment is not limited to this example. Cell highlighting may also be achieved by changing the color of the text and background, for example.

[0071] Thus, according to one embodiment, in addition to displaying figures 7 placed on a map, displaying tables or other information increases the amount of information per unit area of ​​the display device 332, making it easier to identify the operating status of the work machine 2.

[0072] (modified version) In the above-described embodiment, an example of a configuration in which the transmission unit 211 of the in-vehicle terminal 20 transmits machine information without being requested by the information acquisition unit 511 of the server 5 was explained, but the embodiment is not limited to this configuration. In another example, the transmission unit 211 may start transmitting machine information when requested by the information acquisition unit 511. In this case, in step S1 of the flowchart in Figure 5, the information acquisition unit 511 of the server 5 first sends a request signal to the transmission unit 211 of the in-vehicle terminal 20 to request the transmission of machine information, and then the transmission unit 211 transmits the machine information to the information acquisition unit 511 of the server 5 in response to this request signal. In yet another example, the transmission unit 211 of the in-vehicle terminal 20 may store machine information in the storage device 220 before receiving a request signal from the information acquisition unit 511 of the server 5, and after receiving the request signal, transmit the stored machine information to the information acquisition unit 511 of the server 5. In this case, the information acquisition unit 511 of the server 5 may send a reception confirmation signal to the in-vehicle terminal 20 indicating which machine information has been received. The transmission unit 211 of the in-vehicle terminal 20 may, in response to the reception confirmation signal, transmit only the machine information following the received machine information to the information acquisition unit 511 of the server 5.

[0073] In the above-described embodiment, an example was explained in which an on-board terminal 20 mounted on the work machine 2 detects that the work machine 2 performing agricultural work in the field 9 is in an operating state. However, the embodiment is not limited to this configuration. As another example, when a harvester harvests crops in the field 9, and a truck drives alongside the harvester to load the harvested crops, the state of the harvester being in an operating state can be estimated by detecting that the truck is driving alongside the harvester. In such a case, the on-board terminal 20 mounted on the work machine 2 and another on-board terminal mounted on the truck may cooperate to detect that the work machine 2 is in an operating state, or another on-board terminal mounted on the truck may detect that the work machine 2 is in an operating state independently. In other words, the on-board terminal that detects whether the work machine 2 is in an operating state or other state does not have to be mounted on the work machine 2.

[0074] In the embodiment described above, steps S1 to S3 of the flowchart in Figure 5 are executed by the information acquisition unit 511 and the determination unit 512 of the server 5, and steps S4 and S5 are executed by the output unit 313 of the terminal 3. However, the embodiment is not limited to this example. In step S1, the information acquisition unit 311 of the terminal 3 may implement some or all of the functions of the information acquisition unit 511 of the server 5. In steps S2 and S3, the determination unit 312 of the terminal 3 may implement some or all of the functions of the determination unit 512 of the server 5. In steps S4 and S5, the output unit 513 of the server 5 may implement some or all of the functions of the output unit 313 of the terminal 3.

[0075] In the embodiment described above, a configuration in which the work start time is displayed in a table was explained, as shown in Figure 10. This work start time may be the travel start time as explained with reference to Figure 9B. Conversely, the information representing the travel start time displayed on the map of the composite image exemplified in Figure 9B may be information representing the work start time. Furthermore, the information representing the travel start time displayed on the map of the composite image may be switched between a displayed state and a hidden state depending on the user's operation.

[0076] The invention made by the inventor has been described in detail based on embodiments above, but it goes without saying that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments and can be modified in various ways without departing from its essence. Furthermore, the features described in the embodiments can be freely combined within a range that does not contradict the technical aspects. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 1. Machinery Management System 2. Working Machines 20 In-vehicle terminals 200 buses 210 Arithmetic equipment 211 Transmission Section 220 Storage device 221 Recording media 222 Transmission Program 230 Input / Output Devices 231 Communication equipment 232 Antenna 233 Positioning device 234 Output device 235 Input device 236 Detection device 3 terminals 30 buses 31 Arithmetic unit 311 Information Acquisition Department 312 Judgment section 313 Output section 32 Storage device 320 recording media 321 Machinery Management Program 322 Map Information 323 Work Plan Information 33 Input / Output Devices 331 Communication equipment 332 Display device 333 Input device 4 Network 5 Servers 50 bus 51 Arithmetic unit 511 Information Acquisition Department 512 Judgment section 513 Output section 52 Storage device 520 recording media 521 Machinery Management Program 522 Map Information 523 Work Plan Information 53 Input / Output Devices 531 Communication equipment 532 Display device 533 Input device 7A, 7B, 7C, 7D, 7E, 7F shapes 71A, 71B, 71C frame 72A, 72B, 72C (arrow section) 73A, 73B Background section 74A, 74B, 74C, 74D pictograms 75 Starting point 76A, 76B, 76C locus 80 Interface Images 81, 82, 83 switches 9, 9A, 9C Fields (Target work area) 9B area 91, 92 Target work area

Claims

1. The memory device provides work plan information that represents the work plan and includes at least target work area information that represents the target work area within the field where work by machinery is planned, The determination unit determines whether the work machine is within the target work area based on machine information which includes at least position information representing the latest position of the work machine and the work plan information, The output unit outputs a first figure for indicating whether the latest position of the work machine is within the target work area, and a second figure for indicating whether the work machine is in a working state. including Work machine management method.

2. In the method for managing work machinery according to claim 1, The output mentioned above is, Output composite image information representing a composite image obtained by superimposing the first figure and the second figure. including, Work machine management method.

3. In the method for managing work machinery according to claim 2, The output mentioned above is, The output unit displays the location and extent of the field, and the composite image positioned at a location corresponding to the latest position of the work machine, on a map of the area including the field. including Work machine management method.

4. In the method for managing work machinery described in claim 3, The output mentioned above is, The output unit displays on the map a mark representing the location of the starting point where the work machine began to move, and information representing the time when the work machine began to move. Includes Work machine management method.

5. In the method for managing work machinery according to any one of claims 1 to 4, The work plan information further includes work plan period information representing the work plan period in which the work in the target work area by the work machine is planned, The above determination means that The determination unit determines, based on the work plan information, whether the work machine is performing the work within the target work area and during the work plan period. Includes, The output mentioned above is, The output unit displays whether the work machine is performing the work during the work plan period in a way that allows for identification. including Work machine management method.

6. In the method for managing work machinery according to any one of claims 1 to 5, The output mentioned above is, The output unit further includes displaying information representing the time when the work machine started the work. Work machine management method.

7. In the method for managing work machinery according to any one of claims 1 to 6, The output mentioned above is, The output unit outputs warning information when it determines that the operating work machine is performing work that deviates from the work plan. Includes Work machine management method.

8. In the method for managing work machinery according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The machine information further includes type information representing the type of the work machine, The output mentioned above is, The output unit further outputs a third figure for further identifying the type of the work machine. Includes Work machine management method.

9. A storage device that provides work plan information, which represents a work plan and includes at least target work area information that represents the target work area within the field where work by machinery is planned, A determination unit that determines whether the work machine is within the target work area based on machine information which includes at least position information representing the latest position of the work machine and work plan information, An output unit that outputs a first figure for further identifying whether the latest position of the work machine is within the target work area, and a second figure for identifying whether the work machine is in a working state. Equipped with Machinery management system.

10. A work machine management program for achieving predetermined processing by being executed by a computing device, The aforementioned process is, The work plan information includes at least target work area information, which represents the target work area within the field where work by machinery is planned, and Based on machine information which includes at least position information representing the latest position of the work machine and work plan information, it is further determined whether the work machine is within the target work area. Outputting a first figure for further identifying whether the latest position of the work machine is within the target work area, and a second figure for identifying whether the work machine is in a working state, including Machinery management program.

Images