Weighing control device, weighing device, weighing system, and control program

Abstract

To improve the productivity of measuring operations involving tare subtraction.SOLUTION: A measuring control unit is connected with a measuring unit that measures the weight of an object to be measured and an operation unit that is operated by a user. When it is determined that a first operation is performed on the operation unit based on operation information on the operation on the operation unit, a first mode is selected for setting the weight measured by the measuring unit in association with the first operation as a tare amount. When it is determined that a second operation is performed on the operation unit based on the operation information on the operation on the operation unit, a second mode is selected for allowing setting of a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on a weight registered and input in the operation unit as the tare amount, and the rare amount is set based on the selected mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a metering control device, a metering device, a metering system, and a control program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, weighing devices used in stores that sell food products, kitchens in ordinary households, etc. have been equipped with a tare function for weighing excluding the weight of tare such as containers and accessories. In such a weighing device, an operation unit such as buttons and keys is provided. When the tare is loaded on the weighing device and then the operation unit is operated, tare removal is performed and the weight display on the display unit becomes "0". Then, by continuing to place the object to be weighed on the weighing pan and performing weighing, only the weight of the object to be weighed can be measured.

[0003] As such a weighing device, for example, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration capable of switching between an automatic mode in which tare removal is automatically performed by long-pressing a tare key and a manual mode in which tare removal is performed manually. The automatic mode in Patent Document 1 is an operation of performing tare removal when a state where the measured value in the weighing device is stable continues for a certain period of time. Also, the manual mode is an operation of performing tare removal each time the tare key is operated.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Incidentally, when weighing an object, there is a need to tare the combined weight of the food packaging and the preservative at once. However, with the weighing device described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to load the packaging and preservative onto the weighing device each time the object is weighed, and then perform tare using either automatic or manual mode. Therefore, even if the combined weight of the packaging and preservative is the same, tare cannot be performed without weighing, which leads to a problem of reduced productivity in the weighing work.

[0006] This invention was made to solve the above problems and aims to improve the productivity of weighing operations that involve tare. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] To solve the above problems, one aspect of the present invention is a weighing control device connected to a weighing unit for weighing an object to be weighed and an operating unit operated by a user, the device comprising: a selection unit that determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operating unit based on operation information relating to the operation on the operating unit, selects a first mode in which, if it is determined that the first operation has been performed, the weight weighed by the weighing unit in association with the first operation is set as the tare weight, selects a second mode in which, if it is determined that the second operation has been performed, a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on the weight input in the operating unit is set as the tare weight, and a setting unit that sets the tare weight based on the mode selected by the selection unit.

[0008] To solve the above problems, another aspect of the present invention is a weighing device comprising a weighing unit for weighing the weight of an object to be weighed and a weighing control device connected to an operating unit operated by a user, the device comprising: a selection unit that determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operating unit based on operation information relating to the operation on the operating unit, selects a first mode in which the weight weighed by the weighing unit in association with the first operation is set as the tare weight when it is determined that the first operation has been performed, selects a second mode in which a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on the weight input in the operating unit can be set as the tare weight when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, and a setting unit that sets the tare weight based on the mode selected by the selection unit.

[0009] To solve the above problems, another aspect of the present invention is a weighing system comprising a weighing unit for weighing an object to be weighed and a weighing control device connected to an operating unit operated by a user, the system comprising: a selection unit that determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operating unit based on operation information relating to an operation on the operating unit, selects a first mode in which, if it is determined that the first operation has been performed, the weight weighed by the weighing unit in association with the first operation is set as the tare weight, selects a second mode in which, if it is determined that the second operation has been performed, a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on a number input at the operating unit is set as the tare weight, and a setting unit that sets the tare weight based on the mode selected by the selection unit.

[0010] Furthermore, in order to solve the above problems, another aspect of the present invention is a control program for a weighing control device connected to a weighing unit for weighing the weight of an object to be weighed and an operating unit operated by a user, characterized in that the program determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operating unit based on operation information relating to the operation on the operating unit, selects a first mode in which the weight weighed by the weighing unit in association with the first operation is set as the tare weight when it is determined that the first operation has been performed, selects a second mode in which a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on the weight input in the operating unit can be set as the tare weight when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, and causes the computer to perform the following actions: set the tare weight based on the selected mode. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an external perspective view of a weighing device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the weighing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the weighing device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the procedure for setting the tare weight in the weighing device of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the procedure for setting the tare weight in the weighing device of the first embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 6 shows an example of a screen displayed on the control panel of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows an example of a screen displayed on the control panel of the first embodiment, which includes a numeric keypad. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a data table showing an example of information regarding preset values ​​stored in the second setting information storage unit of the first embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a view showing another example of a screen displayed on the operation panel of the first embodiment, which is a view showing a screen including a numeric keypad. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the procedure for setting a preset value in the weighing device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the procedure for setting a preset value in the weighing device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a view showing an example of a confirmation screen displayed on the operation panel in a modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a view showing an example of the configuration of the weighing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a view showing the hardware configuration of the weighing system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the weighing control device included in the weighing system according to the second embodiment.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present specification and drawings, elements that can be similarly described may be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.

[0013] The description will be made in the following order. 1. Outline of the embodiment 2. First embodiment 2.1. Configuration of the weighing device 1 2.1.1. Hardware configuration of the weighing device 1 2.1.2. Configuration of the controller 100 of the weighing device 1 2.2. Outline of the procedure for setting the tare weight in the weighing device 1 2.3. Modified example: Outline of the procedure for setting a preset value in the weighing device 1 2.4. Other modified examples 3. Second embodiment 3.1. Configuration of the weighing system 1000 3.1.1. Relationship with the first embodiment 3.2. Other Configuration Examples of the Weighing System 1000 4. Other Embodiments 5. Summary of Embodiments

[0014] <<1. Overview of the Embodiment>> First, we will describe the outline of the embodiment.

[0015] (1)Technical issues Weighing devices used in grocery stores and in household kitchens have traditionally incorporated a tare function to subtract the weight of containers and accessories from the final weight. These weighing devices are equipped with buttons or keys, and when the tare is placed on the device and the control panel is operated, the tare is subtracted and the weight display on the display unit becomes "0". Then, by placing the object to be weighed on the weighing pan and continuing the weighing process, only the weight of the object can be measured.

[0016] As such weighing devices, there are known devices that have a configuration that allows switching between an automatic mode, where tare is performed automatically, and a manual mode, where tare is performed manually, by pressing and holding the tare key. The automatic mode is an operation in which tare is performed when the weighed value in the weighing device remains stable for a certain period of time. The manual mode is an operation in which tare is performed each time the tare key is operated.

[0017] Incidentally, when weighing an object, there is a need to tare the combined weight of the food packaging and the preservative at once. However, with conventional weighing devices, it is necessary to load the packaging and preservative onto the weighing device each time the object is weighed, and then perform tare using either automatic or manual mode. Therefore, even if the combined weight of the packaging and preservative is the same, tare cannot be performed without weighing, which leads to a problem of reduced productivity in weighing operations.

[0018] In this embodiment, the objective is to improve the productivity of weighing operations that involve tare weighting.

[0019] (2) Example of operation In embodiments of the present invention, for example, when tare weighting is performed, the tare weight can be set by selecting whether to use the weight measured by the weighing unit as the tare weight, or to use a predetermined weight or a value entered in the operating unit as the tare weight.

[0020] This makes it possible to omit the step of weighing the tare in weighing operations where the same weight of tare is used repeatedly. In addition, it is possible to perform tare calculations tailored to the characteristics of the tare being weighed with simpler operation, thereby improving the productivity of weighing operations that involve tare calculation.

[0021] It should be noted that the technical features described above are just one specific example of embodiments of the present invention, and naturally, embodiments of the present invention are not limited to the technical features described above.

[0022] <<2. First Embodiment>> The first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 11. In the following description, a weighing device that is mainly used in stores selling food products and in kitchens of ordinary households and has a tare function that excludes the weight of containers and accessories will be described as an example. In addition to stores and kitchens, the configuration of this embodiment can also be applied to weighing devices used in food factories, farms, post offices, etc.

[0023] <2.1. Configuration of weighing device 1> First, the weighing device 1 according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 is an external perspective view of the weighing device 1 according to the first embodiment. The weighing device 1 is configured to weigh only the weight of the object to be weighed by loading a tare onto the weighing pan 55, performing tare subtraction, and then placing the object to be weighed onto the weighing pan 55 for weighing. Furthermore, the weighing device 1 is configured to allow selection of either a mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 (see Figure 2) is set as the tare amount, or a mode in which a predetermined weight or a value entered as a number in the operation unit 60 can be set as the tare amount.

[0024] As shown in Figure 1, the weighing device 1 comprises a main body 11, a weighing pan 55 for placing the object to be weighed, a weighing unit 91, an operation panel 65, and a spirit level 56. The main body 11 has a resin or metal housing, and the weighing pan 55 is positioned on the top surface of the main body 11. The operation panel 65 is a touch panel in which a display unit 50 and an operation unit 60 are integrally formed, and is operated by the user of the weighing device 1. The operation panel 65 can also display weighing information related to weighing by the weighing unit 91 (details will be described later). As shown in Figure 1, the operation panel 65 is provided on the front side of the main body 11. The spirit level 56 is positioned on the top surface of the main body 11 and is for the user to visually confirm whether the weighing device 1 is positioned so that the weighing pan 55 is horizontal. The weighing unit 91 is built into the main body 11 below the weighing pan 55, as shown by the dotted line in Figure 1.

[0025] <2.1.1. Hardware configuration of weighing device 1> Next, the hardware configuration of the weighing device 1 will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2 is a functional block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the weighing device 1. The weighing device 1 consists of a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 10, RAM (Random Access Memory) 20, ROM (Read Only Memory) 30, storage medium 40, and interface (I / F) 70, all connected via a bus 80. A display unit 50 and an operation unit 60 are also connected to the I / F 70.

[0026] The CPU 10 is the arithmetic unit and controls the operation of the entire weighing device 1. The RAM 20 is a volatile storage medium that allows for high-speed reading and writing of information and is used as a workspace for the CPU 10 when processing information. The ROM 30 is a read-only non-volatile storage medium that stores programs such as firmware. The storage medium 40 is a non-volatile storage medium that allows for reading and writing of information, such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and stores the OS (Operating System), various control programs, application programs, etc.

[0027] I / F70 connects and controls the bus 80 with various hardware and networks. The display unit 50 is a display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) and is a visual user interface for the user to check the status of the weighing device 1. The operation unit 60 is a user interface for the user to input information to the weighing device 1, such as a keyboard or mouse. In this embodiment, the display unit 50 and the operation unit 60 are formed as an integrated operation panel 65.

[0028] The weighing unit 91 is a weight detection module such as a load cell that has a strain gauge or piezoelectric element that deforms in response to the weight of the object to be weighed placed on the weighing pan 55 (see Figure 1), and outputs the change in resistance value corresponding to the amount of deformation as a voltage value.

[0029] An A / D converter 90 is connected to the bus 80, which converts the analog signal from the weighing unit 91 into a digital signal. The voltage value output from the weighing unit 91 is converted into a pulse signal by the A / D converter 90 and input to the CPU 10 via the bus 80. The CPU 10 calculates the weight of the object to be weighed based on the pulse signal input via the bus 80. In the following description, information related to weighing by the weighing unit 91, such as the pulse signal obtained by the A / D converter 90 from the voltage value output from the weighing unit 91, will be referred to as "weighing information".

[0030] In this hardware configuration, the CPU 10 performs calculations according to the program stored in the ROM 30 and the program loaded from the storage medium 40 into the RAM 20, thereby forming the software control unit of the weighing device 1. The combination of this software control unit and the hardware then forms a controller 100 (see Figure 3) for realizing the functions of the weighing device 1 according to this embodiment.

[0031] <2.1.2. Configuration of the controller 100 of the weighing device 1> Next, the functional configuration of the weighing device 1 will be described with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the weighing device 1. The weighing device 1 has a controller 100 that controls the operation of the entire weighing device 1. The controller 100 includes a communication processing unit 110, a main control unit 120, and a storage unit 130.

[0032] The communication processing unit 110 controls the exchange of information between the controller 100 via the I / F 50. For example, the communication processing unit 110 receives information from the operation panel 65 regarding user operations on the soft keys displayed on the operation panel 65 (hereinafter referred to as "operation information") and inputs it to the main control unit 120. The communication processing unit 110 also receives information from the main control unit 120 for controlling the screen displayed on the operation panel 65 (hereinafter referred to as "screen information") and transmits it to the operation panel 65 via the I / F 50.

[0033] Furthermore, the communication processing unit 110 receives metering information via the I / F 50. As described above, the metering information includes information such as pulse signals obtained by converting the voltage values ​​output from the metering unit 91.

[0034] The main control unit 120 includes a selection unit 121, a setting unit 122, a weighing processing unit 123, and a display processing unit 124, and controls the entire controller 100.

[0035] The selection unit 121 has the function of selecting either a mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 (see Figure 2) is set as the tare weight (hereinafter referred to as "first mode"), or a mode in which a predetermined weight or a weight entered via the operation panel 65 can be set as the tare weight (hereinafter referred to as "second mode"). Specifically, the selection unit 121 receives operation information via the communication processing unit 110 and selects whether to perform the tare subtraction for the weighing operation in first mode or second mode. Details of the specific operation of the selection unit 121 and the user's operation of the operation panel 65 will be described later.

[0036] The setting unit 122 sets the tare weight for the weighing operation according to the mode selected by the selection unit 121, that is, either the first mode or the second mode. Furthermore, if the second mode is selected by the selection unit 121, the setting unit 122 can perform a process (hereinafter referred to as the "third setting process") to set the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 as a preset value. Details on setting the preset value will be described later. The setting unit 122 passes the tare information indicating the set tare weight to the weighing processing unit 123 and the display processing unit 124.

[0037] The weighing processing unit 123 performs a calculation based on the weighing information and tare information to subtract the tare amount set by the setting unit 122 from the weight weighed by the weighing unit 91, and passes the calculation result to the display processing unit 124.

[0038] The display processing unit 124 generates screen information based on the information received from the selection unit 121, the setting unit 122, and the weighing processing unit 123, and transmits it to the operation panel 65 via the communication processing unit 110. In other words, the screen displayed on the operation panel 65 (display unit 50) is controlled by the display processing unit 124.

[0039] The memory unit 130 includes a first setting information memory unit 131 and a second setting information memory unit 132, and stores various information in response to commands from the main control unit 120. The first setting information memory unit 131 stores the value entered via the operation panel 65, which is set as the tare weight in the second mode. The second setting information memory unit 132 stores the preset values ​​that are assigned to each of the multiple soft keys included in the numeric keypad displayed on the operation panel 65 when the second mode is executed. The information stored in the first setting information memory unit 131 may include the weight of the object to be weighed, which is set as the tare weight in the first mode.

[0040] The weighing device 1 of this embodiment, with this configuration, performs control to select either a first mode in which the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 is set as the tare weight, or a second mode in which a pre-set weight or a weight input via the operation panel 65 can be set as the tare weight. In other words, the weighing device 1 also functions as a weighing control device in this embodiment.

[0041] <2.2. Outline of the procedure for setting the tare weight in weighing device 1> Next, with reference to Figures 4 to 8, an overview of the procedure for setting the tare weight in weighing operations using the weighing device 1 will be described. Figures 4 and 5 are flowcharts showing the flow of the procedure for setting the tare weight in weighing operations using the weighing device 1. Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of a weighing screen 510, including a tare key 61, which is displayed on the operation panel 65. Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the operation panel 65, including a numeric keypad 600 used for inputting the tare weight, etc. Figure 8 is a data table showing an example of information regarding preset values ​​stored in the second setting information storage unit 132.

[0042] The weighing operation using the weighing device 1 is initiated by the main control unit 120 when the weighing device 1 is powered on, triggered by operating the operation panel 65 or placing the object to be weighed on the weighing pan 55. In addition, to indicate that the weighing operation in the weighing device 1 is ready to begin, the display processing unit 124 may display a weighing screen 510, as shown in Figure 6, on the operation panel 65. In this embodiment, the procedure for setting the tare weight will be described assuming that the weighing screen 510 is displayed on the operation panel 65 and the weighing operation in the weighing device 1 is ready to begin.

[0043] Referring to Figure 4, in step S11, the setting unit 122 receives weighing information via the communication processing unit 110 and determines whether the weighing unit 91 is weighing the object to be weighed. Here, for example, a packaging set in which wasabi is attached to wax paper is used as the tare.

[0044] In step S11, if no weighing information is received, or if weighing information is received indicating that the weight detected by the weighing unit 91 is 0, the selection unit 121 determines that weighing is not in progress (S11 / N) and proceeds to step S12. For example, if there is no object to be weighed on the weighing pan 55, it is determined that weighing is not in progress (S11 / N).

[0045] When the weighing unit 91 determines that weighing is not in progress (S11 / N), the selection unit 121 receives operation information via the communication processing unit 110. Then, in step S12, the selection unit 121 determines, based on the received operation information, whether the operation performed on the tare key 61, which is a soft key displayed on the weighing screen 510, is a second operation. The tare key 61 is the first key in this embodiment.

[0046] In this embodiment, there are, for example, a first operation and a second operation on the tare key 61. In this embodiment, the first operation refers to an operation on the tare key 61 when the elapsed time ET while the tare key 61 is pressed down is between time T1 and time T2. In the first operation, the elapsed time ET, time T1, and time T2 satisfy the relationship 0 < time T1 ≤ elapsed time ET < time T2. If the elapsed time ET while the tare key 61 is pressed down is 0 or greater and less than time T2, the selection unit 121 determines that the operation performed on the tare key 61 in step S12 is not the second operation.

[0047] On the other hand, the second operation in this embodiment refers to an operation on the tare key 61 when the elapsed time ET while the tare key 61 is pressed down becomes time T2 or more. In the second operation, the elapsed time ET, time T1, and time T2 satisfy the relationship 0 < time T1 < time T2 ≤ elapsed time ET. When the elapsed time while the tare key 61 is pressed down becomes time T2 or more, the selection unit 121 determines in step S12 that the operation performed on the tare key 61 is the second operation. Time T2, as an example of the elapsed time ET while the tare key 61 is pressed down, is an example of a predetermined time in this embodiment.

[0048] In addition to the above, the tare key 61 may also be configured to accept a single tap as the first operation and a double tap as the second operation.

[0049] Incidentally, the user of the weighing device 1 can recognize whether they are performing the first or second operation on the tare key 61 by the change in the display of the indicator 51 included in the weighing screen 510. The display processing unit 124 receives operation information via the communication processing unit 110 and changes the display of the indicator 51 according to the operation on the tare key 61.

[0050] For example, the display processing unit 124 acquires operation information and changes the display of the indicator 51 based on the elapsed time while the tare key 61 is pressed and held down. For example, when operation on the tare key 61 begins, the display processing unit 124 lights up the indicator 51 from the left end, and the longer the operation time on the tare key 61, the wider the illumination width of the indicator 51 from the left end to the right end. Then, if the operation time on the tare key 61 continues for a predetermined time or longer (for example, time T2 or longer), the indicator 51 is lit across its entire width. Figure 6 illustrates the position of the right end of the illuminated portion of the indicator 51 at time T1 and time T2. Also in Figure 6, as an example of the case where the operation time on the tare key 61 is less than the predetermined time, the illuminated portion of the indicator 51 at time T1 is shown in white and the unlit portion is shown in halftone.

[0051] Furthermore, if the tare key 61 accepts a single tap as the first operation and a double tap as the second operation, the display processing unit 124 may change the color and illumination state of the indicator 51 between the first and second operations.

[0052] In this way, the user of the weighing device 1 can recognize whether the operation they are performing on the tare key 61 is a first operation or a second operation by operating the tare key 61 while observing the change in the display pattern of the indicator 51. When a second operation is performed, the display processing unit 124 lights up the indicator 51 across its entire width as described above, and then transitions the display on the operation panel 65 from the weighing screen 510, which includes the tare key 61, to the number input screen 520, which includes the numeric keypad 600. In other words, the tare key 61 is a soft key that is not displayed simultaneously with the numeric keypad 600 on the operation panel 65.

[0053] The selection unit 121 determines that no second operation was performed on the tare key 61 if the elapsed time while the tare key 61 was pressed down was between time T1 and time T2 (S12 / N), and returns to step S11.

[0054] On the other hand, the selection unit 121 determines that a second operation has been performed on the tare key 61 when the elapsed time while the tare key 61 is pressed down becomes longer than or equal to time T2 (S12 / Y). The selection unit 121 then selects to execute a second mode in which the tare amount can be set based on the value entered by operating the soft keys displayed on the operation panel 65, and proceeds to step S15.

[0055] When the selection unit 121 selects the execution of the second mode, the display processing unit 124, in step S15, transitions the display on the operation panel 65 from the weighing screen 510 (Figure 6) to a screen including the placement input screen 520 (Figure 7). As shown in Figure 7, the placement input screen 520 displays a numeric keypad 600 that includes multiple soft keys (keys 601, 602, 603, OK key 604, CLR key 605). The user of the weighing device 1 can input any placement number by operating the numeric keypad 600.

[0056] In step S16, the setting unit 122 receives information regarding the operation of the numeric keypad 600 via the communication processing unit 110. The setting unit 122 then sets the tare amount according to the operation of the numeric keypad 600.

[0057] Now, referring to Figure 5, the procedure by which the setting unit 122 sets the tare amount in response to operations on the numeric keypad 600 will be explained. Note that the flowchart shown in Figure 5 is performed in step S16 of the flowchart in Figure 4.

[0058] In step S161, the setting unit 122 determines whether the operation on the numeric keypad 600 is a third operation based on the information regarding the operation of the numeric keypad 600 received via the communication processing unit 110.

[0059] In this embodiment, a packaging set in which wasabi is attached to wax paper is used as the tare weight. Here, it is assumed that the user has performed an operation on the numeric keypad 600 to input the weight of the packaging set in which wasabi is attached to wax paper as the tare weight. In this embodiment, there are, for example, a third operation and a fourth operation on the numeric keypad 600. In this embodiment, the third operation refers to an operation on the numeric keypad 600 when inputting the weight by operating the numeric keypad 600, for example, when keys 601 and 602 are operated in succession and then the OK key 504 is operated. In other words, when setting the tare weight by inputting the weight, the user performs an operation on the numeric keypad 600 to input the weight of the tare by operating keys 601 and 602 in succession and then the OK key 504. In such a case, the operation panel 65 transmits information (hereinafter referred to as "first setting operation information") to the communication processing unit 110 indicating that a third operation has been performed on the numeric keypad 600.

[0060] On the other hand, suppose that key 603 is pressed and held on the numeric keypad 600, and the user performs an operation to set the tare weight to a preset value set on key 603 (the weight of the packaging set with wasabi attached to wax paper, see Figure 8). The fourth operation in this embodiment refers to an operation on the numeric keypad 600, such as when the elapsed time while key 603 is pressed and held. In other words, when setting a preset value as the tare weight, the user performs an operation such as pressing and holding key 603 on the numeric keypad 600. In such a case, the operation panel 65 transmits information (hereinafter referred to as "second setting operation information") to the communication processing unit 110 indicating that the fourth operation has been performed on the numeric keypad 600.

[0061] When the third operation information is received (S161 / Y), the setting unit 122 determines that a number has been entered for a soft key included in the numeric keypad 600. Then, in step S163, the setting unit 122 obtains the value entered from the numeric keypad 600 by the third operation.

[0062] As described above, in the third operation example of this embodiment, the numeric keypad 600 is operated in the order of key 601 and key 602, and the OK key 504 is operated. In this case, in step S163, the setting unit 122 determines that "14" has been entered as the input value by operating key 601 and key 602 in that order. Then, in step S164, the setting unit 122 determines the tare amount based on the value entered as the input value from the numeric keypad 600 by the third operation.

[0063] For example, in step S164, the setting unit 122 determines "14.0g" as the tare weight based on the value entered via the numeric keypad 600 in the third operation. However, if the OK key 604 is operated after the key 603 is operated as the third operation, then "7.0g" is determined as the tare weight in step S164. The display processing unit 124 may also display "14.0g" as the tare weight in the display area 606 of the input screen 520 in step S164 based on the value entered via the numeric keypad 600 in the third operation.

[0064] If the fourth operation information is received (S161 / N), the setting unit 122 determines that the third operation was not performed on the numeric keypad 600 and proceeds to step S162.

[0065] As described above, in the example of the fourth operation of this embodiment, key 603 is pressed and held on the numeric keypad 600. In this case, in step S162, the setting unit 122 obtains information on the preset value associated with key 603 from the preset data table 700 (Figure 8) stored in the second setting information storage unit 132.

[0066] The configuration of the preset data table 700 will now be explained with reference to Figure 8. The preset data table 700 includes the corresponding key 701, key ID 702, tare weight 703, and setting date and time 704. As shown in Figure 8, it may also include information indicating the tare item 705 and the person who set it.

[0067] The corresponding key 701 is information about the soft keys (keys 601, 602, 603, ...) included in the numeric keypad 600. The preset data table 700 stores the information associated with each of the keys 601, 602, 603, ...

[0068] Key ID 702 is information indicating the number that is input to the communication processing unit 110 when keys 601, 602, 603, ... are operated. In Figure 8, for example, key 601 is associated with "1" and key 603 is associated with "7" as key ID 702.

[0069] Tare weight 703 is information indicating the preset tare weight values ​​associated with keys 601, 602, 603, etc. In Figure 8, for example, key 601 is associated with "5.6g" and key 603 is associated with "25.5g" as tare weight 703.

[0070] The setting date and time 704 is information indicating the date and time when the tare weight 703 associated with each key 601, 602, 603, ... was set. In Figure 8, for example, key 603 is associated with the information "August 8, 2020, 2:00 PM" as the tare weight 703. Note that if the tare weight 703 is the initial value of the weighing device 1, the setting date and time 704 information does not need to be stored.

[0071] Tare item 705 is information indicating the tare items associated with keys 601, 602, 603, ..., respectively. In Figure 8, for example, key 601 is associated with "soy sauce and plastic bags," and key 603 is associated with "waxed paper and wasabi" as tare item 705.

[0072] As shown in Figure 8, in the preset data table 700, key 603 is associated with and stored as "25.5g" as the tare weight. The setting unit 122 recognizes that key 603 is set to a preset value of "25.5g", and in step S164, determines that the preset value of key 603, "25.5g", is the tare weight.

[0073] Furthermore, when the fourth operation information is received (S161 / N), the display processing unit 124 may display information such as "Do you want to recall tare amount 3?" on the operation panel 65. Then, when an operation is performed on the operation panel 65 to recall a preset value set on key 603, the procedures in steps S162 and S164 may be executed.

[0074] In the flowchart of Figure 5, if the CLR key 605 is operated, the value entered from the numeric keypad 600 is reset. The display processing unit 124 may then display "0.0g" in the display area 606 included in the quantity input screen 520.

[0075] Returning to the flowchart in Figure 4, we will continue explaining the procedures from step S16 onward. In step S17, the setting unit 122 sets the tare weight determined in step S16 as the tare weight to be used in the weighing operation of the weighing device 1, and proceeds to step S18. The weight value set as the tare weight is stored in the first setting information storage unit 131.

[0076] In this embodiment, the setting unit 122 performs a first setting process in step S17, which sets the value entered via the numeric keypad 600 as the tare weight, and a second setting process, which sets a preset value set in a key included in the numeric keypad 600 (in this case, key 603 as an example) as the tare weight.

[0077] In step S18, the weighing processing unit 123 receives weighing information and performs a weighing process that subtracts the tare weight from the weight measured by the weighing unit 91, based on the weighing information and the tare weight set in step S17. Here, since the tare weight was set in step S17, the result of the weighing process is the value obtained by subtracting the weight of the object to be weighed measured in step S11 from the weight measured by the weighing unit 91. The result of the weighing process is then passed from the weighing processing unit 123 to the display processing unit 124 and displayed on the operation panel 65 by the display processing unit 124.

[0078] Furthermore, once the tare weight is set by the setting unit 122, the display processing unit 124 may transition the display on the operation panel 65 from the input screen 520 to the weighing screen 510. Additionally, the system may display in the weight display area 53 of the weighing screen 510 that the tare weight set by the setting unit 122 has already been subtracted. In this case, for example, when the first setting process is performed, "-14.0g" will be displayed in the weight display area 53. When the second setting process is performed, "-25.5g" will be displayed in the weight display area 53.

[0079] Once the tare weight is set by the setting unit 122, in step S18, the weighing processing unit 123 acquires weighing information via the communication processing unit 110 and performs a weighing process that subtracts the tare weight from the weight measured by the weighing unit 91. The result of the weighing process is passed from the weighing processing unit 123 to the display processing unit 124 as weighing information, and is displayed on the operation panel 65 by the display processing unit 124.

[0080] Returning to the flowchart in Figure 4, the procedure for performing the first mode, in which the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 (see Figure 2) is set as the tare weight, will now be explained. When the packaging set is placed on the weighing pan 55 (see Figure 1) and weighing information indicating that the weight of the packaging set has been detected is received, the selection unit 121 determines in step S11 that the weighing unit 91 is weighing (S11 / Y) and proceeds to step S13.

[0081] When the weighing unit 91 determines that weighing is in progress (S11 / Y), the selection unit 121, in step S13, passes the weighing information received in step S11 to the setting unit 122 and proceeds to step S14.

[0082] In step S14, the selection unit 121 determines whether or not the first operation has been performed on the tare key 61. If it is determined that the first operation has been performed, such as by a single tap on the tare key 61 (S14 / Y), the selection unit 121 selects to execute the first mode, which sets the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 (see Figure 2) as the tare weight, and proceeds to step S17. In step S17, the setting unit 122 sets the weight of the object to be weighed obtained in step S13 as the tare weight, and proceeds to step S18.

[0083] In step S18, the weighing processing unit 123 performs a weighing process that subtracts the tare weight from the weight measured by the weighing unit 91, based on the weighing information and the tare weight set in step S17. Here, since the tare weight was set in step S17, the result of the weighing process is actually the weight measured by the weighing unit 91 minus the weight of the object to be measured (tare) measured in step S11.

[0084] On the other hand, if it is determined that the first operation was not performed, such as when the tare key 61 is double-tapped or not operated (S14 / N), the process proceeds to step S18 without setting the tare amount by the setting unit 122. In this case, since the tare amount is not set, the actual weight of the object to be weighed, as measured by the weighing unit 91, becomes the result of the weighing process.

[0085] In addition, in the flowcharts of Figures 4 and 5, if the soft key 610 is operated while the weighing screen 510, including the input screen 520, is displayed, the display processing unit 124 may return to step S11 in Figure 4 to display only the weighing screen 510 on the operation panel 65. The soft key 610 is a soft key that is operated to interrupt the display of the input screen 520, including the numeric keypad 600. In this embodiment, when the input screen 520 is displayed on the operation panel 65, it may be displayed so that the input screen 520 appears from the bottom to the top of the operation panel 65. In this case, when the soft key 610 is operated, the input screen 520 moves from the top to the bottom of the operation panel 65 and disappears from display on the operation panel 65.

[0086] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 9, the input screen 520 may also be provided with a tare setting key 620, which is a soft key different from the tare key 61 and allows setting the weight of the object to be weighed by the weighing unit 91 as the tare weight. In this embodiment, the input screen 520 is displayed on the operation panel 65 when a second operation is performed on the tare key 61. For example, if a second operation is performed on the tare key 61 while weighing is being performed by the weighing unit 91, the input screen 520 including the weighed value tare setting key 620 may be displayed.

[0087] In this case, with the weighing input screen 520 displayed, the weight of the weighing object measured by the weighing unit 91 can be set as the tare weight. For example, when the second operation is performed on the tare key 61 while "soy sauce and a plastic bag" is placed on the weighing pan 95, the display processing unit 124 displays the weighing input screen 520 which has a tare setting key 620. When the tare setting key 620 is operated, the setting unit 122 sets "5.6g", which is the weight of "soy sauce and a plastic bag" measured by the weighing unit 91, as the tare weight.

[0088] Furthermore, in addition to the above, for example, as shown in Figure 9, the input screen 520 may also be provided with a soft key different from the tare key 61, which is an SW key 607 that can be used to set the tare weight to a weight determined based on the weight of the object to be weighed by the weighing unit 91 and the weight entered by the numeric keypad 600. For example, when weighing is being performed by the weighing unit 91 and a second operation is performed on the tare key 61, the input screen 520 including the SW key 607 may be displayed.

[0089] In this case, by operating the SW key 607, the value entered via the numeric keypad 600 is added to or subtracted from the weight of the object weighed by the weighing unit 91. By operating the SW key 607, the weight obtained by adding or subtracting the weight entered via the numeric keypad 600 from the weight of the object weighed by the weighing unit 91 is displayed in the display area 606. Then, while the weight obtained by adding or subtracting the weight entered via the numeric keypad 600 from the weight of the object weighed by the weighing unit 91 is displayed in the display area 606, the weight determined based on the weight of the object weighed by the weighing unit 91 and the weight entered via the numeric keypad 600 can be set as the tare weight.

[0090] Here, we assume that 10.0g of wasabi is added to the soy sauce and plastic bag. When the second operation is performed on the tare key 61 while the soy sauce and plastic bag is on the weighing pan 95, the display processing unit 124 displays the quantity input screen 520 which has an SW key 607. Then, when the SW key 607 is operated with the weight of wasabi, 10.0g, entered via the numeric keypad 600, the setting unit 122 sets the tare weight to 15.6g, which is the sum of the weight of the soy sauce and plastic bag, 5.6g, measured by the weighing unit 91, and the 10.0g entered via the numeric keypad 600.

[0091] Furthermore, when the weighing input screen 520 is displayed while weighing is being performed by the weighing unit 91, the weight of the object being weighed by the weighing unit 91 may be displayed in the display area 606. In addition, as shown in Figure 9, the weighing input screen 520 may be displayed overlaid on the weighing screen 510 while the weight of the object being weighed by the weighing unit 91 is displayed on the weighing screen 510.

[0092] As described above, in this embodiment, the tare weight can be set by operating the control panel 65 of the weighing device 1. When using the weighing device 1, the user does not need to weigh the tare weight each time a weighing operation is performed, thus improving the productivity of the weighing operation. Furthermore, in the weighing operation, for example, if multiple weighings are performed using the same tare weight, the productivity of the weighing operation can be further improved.

[0093] Furthermore, this embodiment displays the set tare weight on the control panel 65. Therefore, after setting the tare weight during the weighing process, the user can visually check the control panel 65 to determine whether the desired tare weight has been set.

[0094] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when setting the tare weight without weighing the tare itself, the user only needs to perform a simple operation such as pressing and holding the tare key 61 displayed on the operation panel 65 of the weighing device 1. Therefore, since the tare weight can be set without complicated operations on the weighing device 1, it is possible to improve the user experience during weighing operations.

[0095] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a second operation is performed on the tare key 61, a numeric keypad 600 for inputting the tare weight is displayed in the area where the tare key 61 was displayed. Therefore, it is possible to provide a weighing device 1 that can effectively utilize the display area of ​​the touch panel.

[0096] Furthermore, in this embodiment, a preset value can be set as the tare weight in the weighing device 1. Therefore, when weighing using a tare weight of the same weight as previously used, the productivity of the weighing operation can be improved. In this case as well, since the tare weight can be set without complicated operations on the weighing device 1, the user experience in the weighing operation can be improved.

[0097] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the user can choose to either weigh the tare or set the tare weight without weighing it by operating the tare key 61 while checking the change in the display of the indicator 51. Therefore, the user can select their desired method of setting the tare with simple operation, further improving the user experience in weighing operations.

[0098] <2.3. Modified Example: Outline of the procedure for setting preset values ​​in the weighing device 1> Next, with reference to Figures 10 to 12, an overview of the procedure for setting preset values ​​in the weighing device 1 will be described. Figures 10 and 11 are flowcharts showing the flow of the procedure for setting preset values ​​in weighing operations using the weighing device 1. Figure 12 is a diagram showing an example of a confirmation screen 530 for the user to confirm whether or not to set the preset values ​​displayed on the operation panel 65.

[0099] In the flowcharts of Figures 10 and 11, as in Figures 4 and 5, the procedure for setting the tare weight is explained assuming that the weighing screen 510 is displayed on the operation panel 65 and that the weighing operation in the weighing device 1 is ready to begin. In the flowchart of Figure 10, the same reference numerals are used for steps that are the same as those in Figure 4, and redundant explanations are omitted.

[0100] When setting a preset value, it is assumed that the weighing unit 91 weighs the tare weight (for example, a packaging set consisting of soy sauce and a plastic bag) as the object to be weighed. Therefore, in this modified example, assuming that the packaging set is placed on the weighing pan 55 (see Figure 1) as the tare weight, the procedure for weighing the packaging set and setting it as a preset value will be described.

[0101] Referring to Figure 10, in step S21, the selection unit 121 determines whether the operation performed on the tare key 61 is a second operation.

[0102] If the selection unit 121 determines that the operation performed on the tare key 61 is not the second operation (S21 / N), the process proceeds to step S13. The steps from step S13 onward are the same as those described in <2.2.>, so redundant explanations are omitted.

[0103] On the other hand, if the operation performed on the tare key 61 is determined to be a second operation (S21 / Y), the selection unit 121 selects to execute the second mode and proceeds to step S22. In step S22, the setting unit 122 receives weighing information and determines whether the weighing unit 91 is weighing the weight of the object to be weighed.

[0104] If the setting unit 122 determines in step S22 that the weighing unit 91 is not weighing (S22 / N), it proceeds to step S15. The steps from step S15 onward are the same as those described in <2.2.>, so redundant explanations are omitted.

[0105] On the other hand, if the weighing unit 91 determines in step S22 that it is weighing (S22 / Y), the setting unit 122 proceeds to step S221 (see Figure 11) to execute a third setting process in which the weight of the object to be weighed by the weighing unit is set as the preset value. In step S221, the display processing unit 124 displays a confirmation screen 530 (see Figure 12) on the operation panel 65 for the user to confirm whether or not to set the weight weighed by the weighing unit 91 in step S22 as the preset value.

[0106] As shown in Figure 12, the confirmation screen 530 displays the OK key 621, the Cancel key 622, and the soft key 610 as keys that the user can operate. In step S222, the setting unit 122 determines whether or not it has received confirmation operation information indicating that the OK key 621 has been pressed.

[0107] If confirmation operation information is not received (S222 / N), the display processing unit 124 displays a message on the operation panel 65 indicating that the preset value setting is canceled. The setting unit 122 also terminates this process. For example, if an operation is performed on a key other than the OK key 621, or if a predetermined time has elapsed without an operation on the OK key 621, the display processing unit 124 will not receive confirmation operation information.

[0108] When confirmation operation information is received (S222 / Y), the setting unit 122 obtains the weight of the object to be weighed (tare) measured by the weighing unit 91 from the weighing information in step S223. Then, in step S224, the display processing unit 124 transitions the display on the operation panel 65 from the confirmation screen 530 to the input screen 520 (see Figures 7 and 9) and displays the numeric keypad 600 on the operation panel 65.

[0109] In step S223, the setting unit 122 determines the weight of the object to be weighed by the weighing unit 91 as the tare weight. In this modified example, it is assumed that "11.6g" was weighed as the tare weight for the packaging set consisting of soy sauce and a plastic bag. The weight determined as the tare weight in S223 may be displayed in the display area 606 of the input screen 520. The user operates the numeric keypad 600 displayed in step S224 to select which key on the numeric keypad 600 to set the weight determined as the tare weight in S223. Here, we will continue the explanation assuming that key 601 has been selected.

[0110] In step S225, the setting unit 122 acquires operation information and identifies which of the soft keys included in the numeric keypad 600 was operated. In this case, as described above, key 601 was selected, so in step S226, the setting unit 122 updates the information in the preset data table 700 (see Figure 8) corresponding to key 601.

[0111] Specifically, in step S226, the setting unit 122 updates the tare weight information associated with "Key ID=1" corresponding to key 601 among the information contained in the preset data table 700. In this modified example, the tare weight information associated with "Key ID=1" corresponding to key 601 is updated from "5.6g" to "11.6g". At this time, the setting date and time information associated with "Key ID=1" corresponding to key 601 may also be updated simultaneously. After updating the information in the preset data table 700 (see Figure 8), the setting unit 122 terminates this process.

[0112] Thus, in this modified version of the first embodiment, a value to be preset as the tare weight in the weighing device 1 can be set with simpler operation. Therefore, since a preset value can be set without complicated operation of the weighing device 1, it is possible to improve the user experience in weighing operations.

[0113] Furthermore, in this modified version, a confirmation screen 530 is displayed to prompt the user for confirmation when setting a preset value. This makes it possible to suppress incorrect registration of the tare weight in the weighing device 1.

[0114] <2.4. Other variations> As described above, in this embodiment, either the first mode or the second mode is selected as the tare amount setting mode by operating the tare key 61 displayed on the operation panel 65. In addition, either the first mode or the second mode may be selected as the tare amount setting mode by a mechanical key such as a toggle switch mounted on the housing of the main body 12 of the weighing device 1.

[0115] <<3. Second Embodiment>> Next, a second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 13 to 15. The first embodiment described above describes a configuration in which a controller 100 as a weighing control device is integrally mounted on the weighing device 1. In contrast, the second embodiment describes a weighing system 1000 having a weighing control device 1A on which a controller 200 is mounted, and a weighing instrument 2A on which a weighing unit 93 and an A / D converter 92 are mounted.

[0116] <3.1. Configuration of the weighing system 1000> First, the operation mode of the weighing system 1000 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 13. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the weighing system 1000 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 13, the weighing system 1000 includes a weighing control device 1A, which has a display as a display unit 52 and an input terminal as an operation unit 62 connected in a communicative manner, and a weighing instrument 2A that can communicate with the weighing control device 1A.

[0117] The display unit 52, the operation unit 62, and the weighing control device 1A may be integrated into a single terminal, such as a tablet terminal.

[0118] <3.1.1. Relationship with the first embodiment> Next, the hardware and functional configurations of the weighing system 1000 will be described with reference to Figures 14 and 15. Figure 14 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the weighing system 1000. Figure 15 is a functional block diagram showing the functional configuration of the weighing control device 1A included in the weighing system 1000.

[0119] As an example, the CPU 12, RAM 22, ROM 32, storage medium 42, interface 72, and bus 82 that constitute the weighing control device 1A according to the second embodiment are the same as the CPU 10, RAM 20, ROM 30, storage medium 40, interface 70, and bus 80 that are provided in the weighing device 1 according to the first embodiment. Also, the A / D converter 92 and weighing unit 93 that constitute the weighing instrument 2A according to the second embodiment are the same as the A / D converter 90 and weighing unit 91 that are provided in the weighing device 1 according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, the display unit 52 and operation unit 62 according to the second embodiment are the same as the display unit 50 and operation unit 60 according to the first embodiment.

[0120] As shown in Figure 15, the weighing control device 1A has a controller 200 that controls the operation of the entire weighing system 1000. The controller 200 includes a communication processing unit 210, a main control unit 220, and a storage unit 230. The communication processing unit 210, the main control unit 220, and the storage unit 230 may each perform the operations of the communication processing unit 110, the main control unit 120, and the storage unit 130 provided in the weighing device 1 according to the first embodiment. In this case, the selection unit 221, the setting unit 222, the weighing processing unit 223, and the display processing unit 224 included in the main control unit 220 according to the second embodiment may each perform the same operations as the selection unit 121, the setting unit 122, the weighing processing unit 123, and the display processing unit 124 included in the main control unit 120 according to the first embodiment. Furthermore, the first setting information storage unit 231 and the second setting information storage unit 232 included in the storage unit 230 according to the second embodiment may perform the same operations as the first setting information storage unit 131 and the second setting information storage unit 232 included in the storage unit 130 according to the first embodiment. In this case, the controller 200 performs the same operations as the controller 100 described in the first embodiment, so in the description of the second embodiment, the description of the first embodiment will be applied and the explanation will be omitted.

[0121] With this configuration, the weighing control device 1A of this embodiment can also receive weighing information from the weighing instrument 2A via the communication processing unit 210 and perform the same operations as the procedure described in Figures 4 to 12 of the first embodiment.

[0122] <3.2. Other Configuration Examples of Weighing System 1000> In Figure 13, the weighing instrument 2A is either a top-loading electronic scale that weighs the object by placing it on a weighing pan on its top surface, or a hanging scale that weighs the object by suspending it with a hook. This allows the weighing instrument 2A to weigh an object regardless of its size, even on an uneven surface, if it is a hanging scale. Furthermore, if the weighing instrument 2A is a top-loading electronic scale, the weight of the object can be measured with high accuracy. Note that, as shown in Figure 13, the weighing system 1000 may also include weighing instruments 2B, 2C, etc., in addition to weighing instrument 2A, provided they can communicate with the weighing control device 1A.

[0123] Furthermore, the weighing system 1000 may be configured such that the weighing device 1 and the weighing instrument 2A of the first embodiment are connected in a way that allows them to communicate with each other. In this case, the weighing device 1 receives weighing information output from the weighing instrument 2A and functions as a weighing control device that performs the same operations as described in Figures 4 to 12. Furthermore, in this case, the screen displayed on the operation panel 65 of the weighing device 1 may be configured to display different information when weighing is performed on the weighing device 1 and when weighing is performed on the weighing instrument 2A.

[0124] <<4. Other Embodiments>> Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are merely illustrative and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention.

[0125] For example, the steps in the process described herein do not necessarily have to be executed chronologically in the order shown in the sequence diagram. For example, the steps in the process may be executed in a different order than that shown in the sequence diagram, or they may be executed in parallel. Also, some of the steps in the process may be deleted, or additional steps may be added to the process.

[0126] Furthermore, methods including the processing of the components described herein (e.g., communication processing unit, selection unit, setting unit, metering processing unit, display processing unit, and / or storage unit) may be provided, and programs for causing a processor to perform the processing of the above components may be provided. A non-transitory computer-readable medium on which the program is recorded may also be provided. Naturally, such devices, modules, methods, programs, and computer-readable non-transitory recording media are also included in the present invention.

[0127] <<5. Summary of Embodiments>> [Technical field] The present invention relates to a weighing control device, weighing device, weighing system, and control program used when weighing an object to be weighed. [Background technology] Weighing devices used in grocery stores and in household kitchens have traditionally incorporated a tare function to subtract the weight of containers and accessories from the final weight. These weighing devices are equipped with buttons or keys, and when the tare is placed on the device and the control panel is operated, the tare is subtracted and the weight display on the display unit becomes "0". Then, by placing the object to be weighed on the weighing pan and continuing the weighing process, only the weight of the object can be measured. As an example of such a weighing device, Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration that allows switching between an automatic mode, where tare is automatically performed, and a manual mode, where tare is performed manually, by pressing and holding the tare key. The automatic mode in Patent Document 1 is an operation in which tare is performed when the weighed value in the weighing device remains stable for a certain period of time. The manual mode is an operation in which tare is performed each time the tare key is operated. [Prior art document] [Patent] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2010-122083 [Overview of the prefecture] [Problems the invention aims to solve] Incidentally, when weighing an object, there is a need to tare the combined weight of the food packaging and the preservative at once. However, with the weighing device described in Patent Document 1, it is necessary to load the packaging and preservative onto the weighing device each time the object is weighed, and then perform tare using either automatic or manual mode. Therefore, even if the combined weight of the packaging and preservative is the same, tare cannot be performed without weighing, which leads to a problem of reduced productivity in the weighing work. This invention was made to solve the above problems and aims to improve the productivity of weighing operations that involve tare. [Means for solving the problem] (1) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device connected to a weighing unit for weighing an object to be weighed and an operating unit operated by a user, the device comprising: a selection unit that determines whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operating unit based on operation information relating to the operation on the operating unit; a selection unit that, when it is determined that the first operation has been performed, sets the weight weighed by the weighing unit in association with the first operation as the tare weight; a selection unit that, when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, sets a second mode that allows setting a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on the weight input in the operating unit as the tare weight; and a setting unit that sets the tare weight based on the mode selected by the selection unit. With the above configuration, the tare weight can be set by operating the control panel, eliminating the need for the user to weigh the tare weight each time a weighing operation is performed. Therefore, the productivity of the weighing operation can be improved. Furthermore, in weighing operations, for example, when multiple weighings are performed using the same tare weight, the productivity of the weighing operation can be improved even further. (2) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device as described in (1), characterized in that it includes a display processing unit that causes a display unit that displays weighing information relating to weighing by the weighing unit to display the tare weight. With the above configuration, after setting the tare weight during the weighing process, the user can visually check the control panel to determine whether the desired tare weight has been set. (3) One aspect of this embodiment is the weighing control device described in (2), wherein the operation unit and the display unit are integrally configured as a touch panel, and the display processing unit, when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, causes the display unit to display a plurality of soft keys on the display unit that enable input of a number and are operated in the second mode. According to the above configuration, when a second operation is performed on the tare key, a numeric keypad for setting the tare weight by inputting a number will appear in the area where the tare key was displayed. Therefore, the display area of ​​the touch panel can be used effectively. (4) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device as described in (3), wherein the setting unit, when the second mode is being executed and weighing is not being performed by the weighing unit, receives first setting operation information from the operation unit regarding a third operation to the plurality of soft keys, and executes a first setting process to set the weight entered by the operation of the plurality of soft keys as the tare weight, and when the operation unit receives second setting operation information from the operation unit regarding a fourth operation different from the third operation to the plurality of soft keys, it can execute a second setting process to set a preset value set for the soft key operated in the fourth operation among the plurality of soft keys as the tare weight. With the above configuration, when setting the tare weight by inputting a number, the user's operation is simple, such as long-pressing the tare key displayed on the control panel. Therefore, since the tare weight can be set without complicated operations on the weighing device 1, it is possible to improve the user experience in weighing operations. Furthermore, even when weighing using a preset value as the tare weight, the user can set the tare weight without complicated operations, thus improving the user experience in weighing operations. (5) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device as described in (4), characterized in that when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, the setting unit is capable of executing a third setting process in which, when weighing is being performed by the weighing unit, the weight of the object to be weighed by the weighing unit is set as the preset value to one of the plurality of soft keys. With the above configuration, users can set preset values ​​for the tare weight with simpler operations, thereby improving the user experience in weighing operations. (6) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device as described in (5), wherein the display processing unit, when it is determined that the second operation has been performed, causes the display unit to display a confirmation screen for confirming whether or not to permit the execution of the third setting process when weighing is being performed by the weighing unit, and the setting unit executes the third setting process when it receives confirmation operation information from the operation unit regarding an operation to permit the execution of the third setting process on the confirmation screen. With the above configuration, a confirmation screen is displayed to prompt the user for confirmation when setting preset values. This helps to prevent incorrect registration of the tare amount to be preset. (7) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device according to any one of (3) to (6), wherein the display processing unit causes the display unit to display a first key which is a soft key that is not displayed in the display area of ​​the display unit at the same time as the plurality of soft keys, the first operation is an operation of the first key, and the second operation is an operation of the first key in a manner different from the first operation. According to the above configuration, when a second operation is performed on the tare key, a numeric keypad for setting the tare amount by inputting a number will appear in the area where the tare key was displayed. Therefore, the user can easily select the desired tare setting method and effectively utilize the display area of ​​the touch panel. (8) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device as described in (7), wherein the display processing unit displays on the display unit that the operation of the first key is the first operation when the operation time of the first key is less than a predetermined time, and displays on the display unit that the operation of the first key is the second operation when the operation time of the first key is equal to or greater than the predetermined time, and then transitions the display on the display unit from the first key to the plurality of soft keys. With the above configuration, the user can choose to either weigh the tare or set the tare weight without weighing it by operating the tare key while observing the changes in the indicator display. Therefore, the user can easily select their desired method of setting the tare, further improving the user experience in weighing operations. (9) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device as described in (8), wherein the selection unit determines that the first operation has been performed if the operation time of the first key is less than the predetermined time, and determines that the second operation has been performed if the operation time of the first key is equal to or greater than the predetermined time. With the above configuration, the user can choose to either weigh the tare or set the tare weight without weighing it by operating the tare key while observing the changes in the indicator display. Therefore, the user can easily select their desired method of setting the tare, further improving the user experience in weighing operations. (10) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device according to any one of (2) to (9), characterized in that it comprises the operation unit and the display unit. The above configuration provides the same effect as (2) through (9). (11) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing control device according to any one of (1) to (10), characterized in that it comprises the weighing unit. The above configuration provides the same effects as (1) through (10). (12) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing device equipped with a weighing control device described in any one of (1) to (11). The above configuration provides the same effect as (1) through (11). (13) One aspect of this embodiment is a weighing system comprising a weighing control device described in any one of (1) to (11). The above configuration provides the same effect as (1) through (11). (14) One aspect of this embodiment is a control program for a weighing control device connected to a weighing unit that weighs an object to be weighed and an operating unit operated by a user, the control program causing a computer to perform the following actions: determine whether a first operation or a second operation different from the first operation has been performed on the operating unit based on operation information relating to the operation on the operating unit; select a first mode in which, if it is determined that the first operation has been performed, the weight weighed by the weighing unit in association with the first operation is set as the tare weight; select a second mode in which, if it is determined that the second operation has been performed, a predetermined weight or a weight determined based on the weight input in the operating unit is set as the tare weight; and set the tare weight based on the selected mode. With the above configuration, as with (1), the tare weight can be set by operating the control panel, eliminating the need for the user to weigh the tare weight each time a weighing operation is performed. Therefore, the productivity of the weighing operation can be improved. Furthermore, in weighing operations, for example, if multiple weighings are performed using the same tare weight, the productivity of the weighing operation can be improved even further. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0128] 1 Weighing device 1A Weighing control device 2A measuring instrument 2B Measuring instrument 2C measuring instrument 11 Main body 40 Storage medium 42 Storage medium 50 Display 51 Indicators 52 Display section 53 Weight display area 55 Weighing pan 56 Level 60 Control section 61 Tare Key 62 Operation section 65 Control Panel 70 Interfaces (I / F) 72 Interfaces (I / F) 80 bus 82 Bus 90 A / D Converter 91 Measuring section 92 A / D converters 93 Measuring section 100 controllers 110 Communication Processing Unit 120 Main Control Unit 121 Selection Section 122 Setting section 123 Measuring Processing Unit 124 Display Processing Unit 130 Storage section 131 1st setting information storage section 132 2nd setting information storage section 200 controllers 210 Communication Processing Unit 220 Main Control Unit 221 Selection Section 222 Settings Section 223 Metering Processing Unit 224 Display Processing Unit 230 Storage section 231 1st setting information storage section 232 2nd setting information storage unit 504 OK key 510 Weighing screen 520 Input screen for the number of items 530 Confirmation screen 600 numeric keypad 601 keys 602 keys 603 keys 604 OK key 605 CLR key 606 Display area 607 SW keys 610 soft keys 620 Tare key 621 OK key 622 Cancel key 700 Preset Data Tables 1000 weighing systems

Claims

1. A touch panel control unit that accepts user input, When weighing information is received indicating that the weight of the object being weighed has been detected, A setting unit, via the aforementioned operation unit, sets the weight indicated by the weighing information as the tare amount in response to a first touch operation by the user on the tare key on the touch panel, If the aforementioned measurement information is not received, A display unit that, via the operation unit, displays a numeric keypad screen on the weighing screen for the user to input the tare weight in response to a second touch operation by the user on the tare key on the touch panel, The setting unit sets the value entered on the numeric keypad screen as the tare weight, and reflects the calculation result obtained by subtracting the set tare weight from the weighed weight on the weighing screen. A weighing and control device equipped with the following features.

2. The weighing control device according to claim 1, wherein the display unit displays a numeric keypad screen superimposed on the tare key.

3. A weighing device comprising the weighing control device described in claim 1 or 2.

4. A weighing system comprising a weighing control device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. A control program for a weighing and control device, Accepting user input, When weighing information is received indicating that the weight of the object being weighed has been detected, In response to a first touch operation by the user on the tare key on the touch panel, the weight indicated by the weighing information is set as the tare amount. If the aforementioned measurement information is not received, In response to a second touch operation by the user on the tare key on the touch panel, a numeric keypad screen for the user to input the tare amount is displayed on the weighing screen. The value entered on the numeric keypad screen is set as the tare weight, and the calculation result obtained by subtracting the set tare weight from the weighed weight is reflected on the weighing screen. A control program that causes a computer to execute a command.

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