Information processing systems, management methods, information processing devices, and programs

Abstract

To provide an information processing system which can manage a position of a specific job distinguishably from ordinary jobs by using a slip with an image code printed thereon.SOLUTION: An information processing system includes: one or more units of imaging means which capture a first slip with a first image code printed thereon, the first image code corresponding to first-type identification information, and a second slip with a second image code printed thereon, the second image code corresponding to second-type identification information; management means which manages a position of the first slip based on the first image code recognized from the images captured by the imaging means, and manages a position of the second slip based on the second image code recognized from the captured images; and user interface means which displays the position of the second slip in response to an operation performed by a user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, a management method, an information processing apparatus, and a program. [Background Art]

[0002] For example, a technology for managing the progress of a job having a plurality of work processes based on the position of a work instruction sheet (slip) with a color code captured by a camera has been conventionally known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

[0003] It would be convenient if a job management system that manages the progress of a job having a plurality of work processes based on the position of a work instruction sheet (slip) with a color code captured by a camera can manage the position of a specific job distinguishing it from a normal job by using a special second slip in addition to a normal first slip.

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention have been made in view of the foregoing points, and an object thereof is to provide an information processing system capable of managing the position of a specific job distinguishing it from a normal job by using a slip on which an image code is printed. [Means for Solving the Problem]

[0005] To achieve the above object, according to claim 1 of the present application, An information processing system comprising a first information processing device, a second information processing device, a photographing means, and a printing means, one or more imaging means that images a first slip on which a first image code corresponding to a first type of identification information is printed and a second slip on which a second image code corresponding to a second type of identification information is printed Equipped with , The first type of identification information is information used by the first information processing device to identify a job, and the second type of identification information is information different from the information used by the first information processing device to identify a job, and the second information processing device is management means that manages the position of the first slip based on the first image code recognized from the image captured by the imaging means, and manages the position of the second slip based on the second image code recognized from the captured image; and user interface means that displays the position of the second slip in accordance with a user operation; The system comprises a transmission means for transmitting the first image code to the first information processing device, and if the first information processing device is unable to obtain the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information, the first information processing device instructs the printing means to print the second slip on which the second image code corresponding to the second type of identification information that has been previously obtained is printed. It is characterized by the following. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the location of a specific job can be managed separately from a regular job by using a slip on which an image code is printed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] This is a diagram illustrating an example of an information processing system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] This is an illustrative diagram of an example of a slip used in the information processing system according to this embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a hardware configuration diagram of an example computer. [Figure 4] This is a functional configuration diagram of an example of an information processing system according to this embodiment. [Figure 5] This is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the work process for a job in a printing factory. [Figure 6] This is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the process for creating a slip with a color code image. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process for generating color-coded images. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating the coding rules that allow for the representation of ternary numbers. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of information to be coded into optical symbols. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of an optical symbol where four colors are assigned to each cell of the optical symbol. [Figure 11] This diagram illustrates an example of a slip printed by an information processing system under normal circumstances. [Figure 12] This is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a process for generating a slip with a dummy code color code image. [Figure 13]It is a diagram illustrating an example of a slip printed by an information processing system while the operation of a work process management system is stopped. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart of an example of job status update processing when passing through a gate. [Figure 15] It is a configuration diagram of an example of data managed by a management unit. [Figure 16] It is an image diagram of an example of a user interface screen displayed by a work process management system. [Figure 17] It is a flowchart of an example of a processing procedure for replacing a provisional slip with a formal slip. [Figure 18] It is a diagram illustrating an example of a slip printed by an information processing system while the operation of a work process management system is stopped. [Figure 19] It is a flowchart of an example of a processing procedure for registering a provisional slip as a formal slip. [Figure 20] It is an external view of an example of a dummy code image. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0009] [First Embodiment] <System Configuration> FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram of an example of an information processing system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is an image diagram of an example of a slip used in the information processing system according to the present embodiment. In the information processing system 1 of FIG. 1, an existing system 10, a work process management system 14, a printer 16, and one or more cameras 18 are communicably connected via a network 20 such as the Internet or a LAN. The camera 18 is an example of an imaging means.

[0010] The existing system 10 is, for example, a customer system used by a customer. The existing system 10 creates a slip 800 for the existing system 10 illustrated in, for example, FIG. 2(A) on which a job ID is displayed. The slip 800 is, for example, a work instruction. The job ID is information used for identifying a job in the existing system 10. Further, at least one barcode image 801 used in the existing system 10 is displayed on the slip 800.

[0011] Note that the job ID may be displayed as the barcode image 801 on the slip 800 for the existing system 10, or may be displayed as text. The existing system 10 provides users with the existing functions implemented by the slip 800 for the existing system 10.

[0012] The work process management system 14, the printer 16, and one or more cameras 18 may constitute a function addition system that adds a new function to the slip 800. The work process management system 14 manages the progress of a job including a plurality of work processes using a slip 810 for the work process management system 14 to which a color code image 811 illustrated in FIG. 2(B) is attached. Note that the work process management system 14 can identify the job ID from the color code image 811.

[0013] The printer 16 prints the slip 800 for the existing system 10 and the slip 810 for the work process management system 14. The camera 18 is installed to be capable of capturing an image of a location associated with a work process of a job. Further, the camera 18 is installed to be capable of capturing an image of the slip 810 for the work process management system 14 located at a location associated with a work process of the job. Note that the location (position) associated with a work process of a job refers to a location through which an article (e.g., a printed matter, a product, a delivery item, a repair part in a repair and cleaning factory, etc.) passes when moving between work processes, or a temporary storage location where an article is temporarily stored.

[0014] Camera 18 can be either a PTZ camera or an IP camera. A PTZ camera is a camera that can operate its PTZ (Pan Tilt Zoom) function via the network 20 and can transmit captured images or videos via the network 20. An IP camera is also a camera that can be operated via the network 20 and can transmit captured images or videos via the network 20. Captured images or videos taken by camera 18 are transmitted to the work process management system 14 via the network 20.

[0015] For example, in an information processing system 1 that manages the work process of a job in a printing factory, a slip 810 for the work process management system 14 is affixed to a printed document or other material, which is an example of an intermediate product or material for the job corresponding to the slip 810. The slip 810 is affixed to a printed document that is easily photographed by a camera 18, for example.

[0016] The work process management system 14 manages the progress of the work process (job status) of a job based on the work process associated with the camera 18 that photographed the slip 810 and the job ID identified from the color code image 811 of the slip 810. Furthermore, the work process management system 14 can identify the location of a special slip 810, as described later, based on the work process associated with the camera 18 that photographed the slip 810 and the color code image 811 of the slip 810. The work process management system 14 also manages the history of the work process of a job and at least one of the captured image or video representing the circumstances when the slip 810 was photographed.

[0017] Note that the configuration of the information processing system 1 shown in Figure 1 is just one example. For example, the information processing system 1 may include other systems, and the work process management system 14 may have a different name. The work process management system 14 may be implemented with a single information processing device, or it may be implemented with multiple information processing devices.

[0018] <Hardware Configuration> The existing system 10 and the work process management system 14 are configured to include one or more information processing devices. The information processing device is implemented, for example, by a computer 500 with the hardware configuration shown in Figure 3.

[0019] Figure 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of an example computer. The computer 500 in Figure 3 is equipped with an input device 501, a display device 502, an external interface 503, RAM 504, ROM 505, a CPU 506, a communication interface 507, and an HDD 508, all of which are interconnected via bus B. Note that the input device 501 and the display device 502 may be connected and used only when necessary.

[0020] The input device 501 includes a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, etc., and is used by the user to input various operation signals. The display device 502 includes a display, etc., and displays the processing results from the computer 500.

[0021] Communication I / F 507 is an interface that connects computer 500 to various networks. This allows computer 500 to perform data communication via communication I / F 507.

[0022] Furthermore, the HDD508 is an example of a non-volatile storage device that stores programs and data. The programs and data stored include the OS, which is the basic software that controls the entire computer 500, and application software (hereinafter simply referred to as "applications") that provides various functions on the OS. Note that the computer 500 may use a drive device that uses flash memory as a storage medium (for example, a solid-state drive: SSD) instead of the HDD508.

[0023] External I / F 503 is an interface to external devices. External devices include recording media 503a, etc. This allows computer 500 to read and / or write to recording media 503a via external I / F 503. Recording media 503a include flexible disks, CDs, DVDs, SD memory cards, USB memory, etc.

[0024] ROM505 is an example of non-volatile semiconductor memory (storage device) that can retain programs and data even when the power is turned off. ROM505 stores programs and data such as the BIOS, OS settings, and network settings that are executed when the computer 500 starts up. RAM504 is an example of volatile semiconductor memory (storage device) that temporarily holds programs and data.

[0025] The CPU 506 is a processing unit that reads programs and data from storage devices such as the ROM 505 and HDD 508 onto the RAM 504 and executes processing, thereby realizing the overall control and functions of the computer 500.

[0026] The existing system 10 and the work process management system 14 can perform various processes described later through a hardware configuration of the computer 500, such as that shown in Figure 3, which works in cooperation with the software. The hardware configurations of the printer 16 and camera 18 will not be described here.

[0027] <Software Configuration> Figure 4 is a functional configuration diagram of an example of an information processing system according to this embodiment. Note that the functional configuration in Figure 4 has been appropriately omitted for the purpose of describing this embodiment.

[0028] The work process management system 14 shown in Figure 4 has a configuration comprising a user interface unit 30, a job ID detection unit 32, a management unit 34, an image code generation unit 36, an image code transmission unit 38, a captured image acquisition unit 40, a recognition unit 42, a color code management table storage unit 50, and a job management table storage unit 52. The user interface unit 30 is an example of user interface means. The management unit 34 is an example of management means. The image code generation unit 36 ​​is an example of image code generation means. The captured image acquisition unit 40 is an example of captured image acquisition means.

[0029] Furthermore, the existing system 10 has a configuration that includes a user interface unit 60, a job ID transmission unit 62, an image code reception unit 64, a slip creation unit 66, a print instruction unit 68, and a dummy code storage unit 80. The slip creation unit 66 is an example of a slip creation means.

[0030] The user interface unit 30 controls the display of various screens and accepts various operations from the user. The job ID detection unit 32 detects the job ID displayed as a barcode image 801 or text on the slip 800 for the existing system 10, for example, as shown in Figure 2(A).

[0031] The management unit 34 stores and manages available color code IDs in the color code management table storage unit 50. The management unit 34 also associates acquired job IDs with color code IDs and manages them in the color code management table storage unit 50. The management unit 34 obtains job IDs from the job list received from the existing system 10. The management unit 34 may also obtain job IDs detected by the job ID detection unit 32. A job ID is an example of information used to identify a job. The job list contains information about multiple jobs, such as jobs scheduled to be processed for one day. The management unit 34 also manages color code IDs already acquired by the existing system 10 in the color code management table storage unit 50 for use as dummy code IDs, as described later.

[0032] Furthermore, the management unit 34 stores and manages job information corresponding to the job ID and color code ID in the job management table storage unit 52. The job management table storage unit 52 also manages progress information and history information of the job's work process, as well as captured image files or captured video files that show what happened when the slip 810 was photographed.

[0033] The image code generation unit 36 ​​generates a color code image 811 from the color code ID provided by the management unit 34. The image code transmission unit 38 transmits the generated color code image 811 to the existing system 10.

[0034] The image acquisition unit 40 acquires captured images or videos from the camera 18. The recognition unit 42 decodes the color code ID from the color code image 811 captured in the captured image or video. The recognition unit 42 transmits identification information, such as identifying the camera 18 that captured the color code image 811 or the work process of the job, and the decoded color code ID to the management unit 34. The management unit 34 can identify the job information corresponding to the color code ID recognized by the recognition unit 42 by referring to the job management table storage unit 52.

[0035] The management unit 34 can update the progress information (job status) of the job's work process, which is managed in the job management table storage unit 52, based on the work process of the job corresponding to the camera 18 that captured the color code image 811, and the job ID corresponding to the decoded color code ID.

[0036] The user interface unit 60 controls the display of various screens and accepts various operations from the user. The job ID transmission unit 62 transmits the job ID of the job that creates the slip 810 to the work process management system 14. The job ID transmission unit 62 may also transmit a job list to the work process management system 14.

[0037] The image code receiving unit 64 receives the color code image 811 from the work process management system 14. The slip creation unit 66 creates a slip 810 for the work process management system 14 with the color code image 811 shown in Figure 2(B) attached. The print instruction unit 68 instructs the printer 16 to print the slip 810 shown in Figure 2(B).

[0038] Furthermore, the dummy code storage unit 80 stores the color code images of the color code IDs used as dummy code IDs. The color code images of the color code IDs used as dummy code IDs (hereinafter simply referred to as dummy codes) are used to manage specific jobs in a way that distinguishes them from normal jobs. The dummy code IDs are stored in the dummy code storage unit 80 of the existing system 10 in advance (for example, during the setup stage of the information processing system 1).

[0039] For example, if the work process management system 14 malfunctions and cannot receive the color code image 811 from the work process management system 14, the existing system 10 will not be able to create a slip 810 with the color code image 811 printed on it. During the malfunction, the job can continue using, for example, a slip 800 for the existing system 10. However, the work process management system 14 will not be able to manage the work process using the slip 800 for the existing system 10 that was created during the malfunction after the malfunction is resolved. Furthermore, after the malfunction is resolved, if the slip 800 for the existing system 10 that was created during the malfunction is replaced with a slip 810 for the work process management system 14, the work process management system 14 will not be able to locate the slip 800 for the existing system 10.

[0040] Therefore, in this embodiment, if a failure occurs in the work process management system 14 and the existing system 10 cannot receive the color code image 811 from the work process management system 14, the work can be continued by using a temporary slip on which a dummy code color code image is printed, as described later. Furthermore, after the failure is resolved, in this embodiment, the location of the temporary slip can be managed by recognizing the dummy code color code image printed on the temporary slip, thus facilitating recovery work by the user, such as the replacement work of replacing the temporary slip with the actual slip.

[0041] This document is a document 810 for the work process management system 14, associated with a job managed by the work process management system 14. Alternatively, a provisional document can be considered a document 810 for the work process management system 14 that is not associated with a job managed by the work process management system 14.

[0042] The use of temporary slips printed with dummy code color code images is not limited to the occurrence of failures; it can be used in any situation where the location of a specific job needs to be managed separately from normal jobs. In this embodiment, an example was described in which the dummy code storage unit 80 stores the dummy code color code image, but the dummy code storage unit 80 may also store a color code ID to be used as the dummy code ID and generate the dummy code color code image from there. Furthermore, in this embodiment, temporary slips that have been printed in advance can also be used.

[0043] <Processing> This section describes an example of an information processing system used to manage the work process of a printing job. Figure 5 is an illustrative diagram showing an example of the work process of a printing job.

[0044] The work process shown in Figure 5 includes "printing," "cutting," "folding," "binding," "inspection," "temporary storage 1," and "temporary storage 2." Cameras 18a1 to 18a5 are installed at the gate in front of the areas where the work processes "printing," "cutting," "folding," "binding," and "inspection" are performed. Cameras 18b1 to 18b2 are installed at the areas where the work processes "temporary storage 1" and "temporary storage 2" are performed. Hereafter, cameras 18a1 to 18a5 may be collectively referred to as camera 18a, and cameras 18b1 to 18b2 may be collectively referred to as camera 18b.

[0045] The slips 810 for the work process management system 14, such as the main slips and temporary slips, are photographed by camera 18a or camera 18b during their movement between work processes or while stored in a temporary storage location. However, as shown in Figure 5, the movement between work processes is not constant in a printing plant, and depending on the job, there may be work processes in which the slips 810 for the work process management system 14 are not photographed, and therefore not detected or recorded. In Figure 5, arrows represent the movement of jobs that perform all work processes and arrows represent the movement of jobs that skip some work processes.

[0046] In Figure 5, after the printed material is output through the "printing" process, the slip 810 is attached to the printed material. As a result, in the example in Figure 5, the slip 810 attached to the printed material is photographed by camera 18a or camera 18b as the printed material passes through the gate or while it is stored in the temporary storage area.

[0047] Creating invoices with color-coded images In the following, we will explain separately the processing of the information processing system 1 under normal conditions when the work process management system 14 is operating, and the processing of the information processing system 1 when the work process management system 14 is stopped due to a failure or other reason.

[0048] During normal operation when the work process management system 14 is running, the processing of the information processing system 1 is performed as shown in Figure 6, for example. Figure 6 is a sequence diagram of an example of the process of creating a slip with a color code image.

[0049] In step S10, the job ID transmission unit 62 of the existing system 10 transmits the job list to the work process management system 14. In step S12, the management unit 34 of the work process management system 14 retrieves the job ID from the received job list.

[0050] In step S14, the management unit 34 selects the color code ID to be used from the color code management table storage unit 50, assigns the color code ID to the job ID obtained from the job list, and issues it. The management unit 34 manages the selected color code ID in association with the job ID obtained from the job list.

[0051] In step S16, the image code generation unit 36 ​​generates a color code image 811 from the job ID obtained from the job list and the associated color code ID, for example, using the procedure shown in Figure 7. The procedure shown in Figure 7 utilizes the technology described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-199306.

[0052] Figure 7 is a flowchart of an example of the process for generating a color code image. In step S30, the image code generation unit 36 ​​receives input of the color code ID to be color-coded. In step S32, the image code generation unit 36 ​​decomposes the string of the color code ID into the values ​​of each digit.

[0053] Next, proceeding to step S34, the image code generation unit 36 ​​converts the value of each decomposed digit into a value corresponding to the number of colors assigned to each cell of the optical symbol described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-199306. For example, if the number of colors assigned to each cell is 4, the image code generation unit 36 ​​converts the value of each digit into a ternary value according to the coding rule shown in Figure 8, for example.

[0054] Figure 8 illustrates coding rules that can represent ternary numbers. Figure 8 shows an example of coding rules using four colors: R (red), G (green), B (blue), and K (black). When using four colors, representation in ternary numbers is possible.

[0055] For example, as illustrated in Figure 8(a), each clockwise transition, i.e., from R to K, K to B, B to G, and G to R, represents a value of "0". Similarly, each counterclockwise transition, i.e., from R to G, G to B, B to K, and K to R, represents a value of "1". Furthermore, each diagonal transition, i.e., bidirectional transition between R and B, and bidirectional transition between K and G, represents a value of "2".

[0056] For example, consider the case where we view the color transitions of each cell from left to right in the diagram, in a cell column where each cell is sequentially connected in the order of G, R, B, K, and G, as shown in Figure 8(b). In this case, the transition from G to R represents the value "0", the transition from R to B represents the value "2", the transition from B to K represents the value "1", and the transition from K to G represents the value "2". Therefore, the array in Figure 8(b) represents the value "3d2120", which is the decimal value "69". Note that the "3d" at the beginning of the value notation indicates that the following digit is a ternary value.

[0057] The coding rule using four color transitions is not limited to the example shown in Figure 8(a), but may also be the example shown in Figure 8(d). Figure 8(e) shows an example of a conversion table that associates color transitions with values ​​according to the coding rule shown in Figure 8(d). In Figure 8(e), for example, if the source cell's color is R and the value "2" is to be represented, the color of the destination cell adjacent to the source cell is set to B. Similarly, if the source cell's color is K and the value "1" is to be represented, the color of the destination cell is set to G.

[0058] Following step S34 in Figure 7, the process proceeds to step S36, where the image code generation unit 36 ​​assigns a color to each cell of the optical symbol according to the color of the source cell, the ternary value converted in step S34, and the conversion table of coding rules shown in Figure 8(a). The image code generation unit 36 ​​is assumed to have pre-stored the color sequence of each cell in the cell column of the main code of the optical symbol.

[0059] Figures 9 and 10 illustrate a more specific example of assigning four colors to each cell of an optical symbol. Figure 9 shows an example of information to be coded into an optical symbol. Figure 10 shows an example of an optical symbol when four colors are assigned to each cell of the optical symbol.

[0060] Figure 9 shows an example where the cell columns of the subcode section 301 connected to the cells "d1", "d2", "d3", and "d4" of the main code section 300 have the values ​​"3d1", "3d1", "3d0", and "3d1".

[0061] Figure 10 shows an example of an optical symbol coded according to the coding rules explained using Figure 8, based on the information illustrated in Figure 9. In this example, the cell row of the main code section 300 contains an even number of cells, with the leading cell being the K color, and K and R colors arranged alternately.

[0062] Furthermore, in the subcode section 301, for example, in the leftmost cell, the cell's color is assigned using the K color of the cell in the main code section 300 to which the cell is connected as the initial source color. In the example in Figure 10, the R color is assigned to the leftmost cell of the subcode section 301 of the optical symbol, according to the K color of the cell in the main code section 300 (the source cell) and the cell value "3d1" of the subcode section 301, by referring to the coding rule conversion table in Figure 8(a).

[0063] Following step S16 in Figure 6, the process proceeds to step S18, in which the image code transmission unit 38 transmits a color code image 811 corresponding to the job ID obtained from the job list to the existing system 10.

[0064] In step S20, the image code receiving unit 64 of the existing system 10 receives the color code image 811 from the work process management system 14. The slip creation unit 66 creates a slip 810 (slip with color code image) for the work process management system 14 with the color code image 811 attached. In step S22, the print instruction unit 68 instructs the printer 16 to print the slip 810 for the work process management system 14 created by the slip creation unit 66.

[0065] The relationship between the slip 810 for the work process management system 14 and the slip 800 for the existing system 10, which are printed by the process shown in Figure 6, is as shown in Figure 11. Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a slip printed by the information processing system under normal circumstances.

[0066] The slip 800 for the existing system 10 is the original slip. The job ID of the slip 800 for the existing system 10 is an example of the first type of identification information. In this embodiment, the job ID of the slip 800 for the existing system 10 is associated with the color code image and the slip 810 for the work process management system 14 is printed. The slip 810 for the work process management system 14 in Figure 11 is the main slip. The color code image of the slip 810 for the work process management system 14 in Figure 11 is an example of the first image code. Also, the slip 810 for the work process management system 14 in Figure 11 is an example of the first slip.

[0067] When the work process management system 14 is stopped due to a malfunction or other reason, the information processing system 1 is executed as shown in Figure 12, for example. Figure 12 is a sequence diagram of an example of the process of generating a slip with a dummy code color code image.

[0068] In step S40, the job ID transmission unit 62 of the existing system 10 transmits the job list to the work process management system 14. Figure 12 shows that the work process management system 14 is stopped, so the existing system 10 cannot receive the color code image 811 corresponding to the job ID transmitted to the work process management system 14.

[0069] Therefore, if the document creation unit 66 of the existing system 10 does not receive a response from the work process management system 14 even after a predetermined time has elapsed since sending the job list in step S40, in step S42 it determines that it cannot obtain the color code image 811 from the work process management system 14. In step S44, the document creation unit 66 obtains the color code image of the dummy code from the dummy code storage unit 80 and assigns the job ID of the job included in the job list.

[0070] In step S46, the slip creation unit 66 creates a slip for the work process management system 14 (a temporary slip with a dummy code image) to which a color code image of the dummy code is attached as described later. In step S48, the print instruction unit 68 instructs the printer 16 to print the temporary slip with the dummy code image.

[0071] The relationship between the temporary slip with a dummy code image printed by the process shown in Figure 12 and the slip 800 for the existing system 10 is as shown in Figure 13. Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a slip printed by the information processing system while the work process management system is stopped.

[0072] The slip 800 for the existing system 10 is the original slip. The slip 802 with the dummy code image is a temporary slip. The job ID of slip 800 for the existing system 10 is an example of the first type of identification information. The job ID of slip 802 with the dummy code image is an example of the second type of identification information. Note that slip 802 with the dummy code image may be printed in advance of failures, such as during the setup and configuration phases before the start of operation of the work process management system 14, or in between jobs. The dummy code image may also be sent directly from the work process management system 14 to the printer 16 and printed.

[0073] Figure 20 is an external view of an example of a dummy code image. As shown in Figure 20, the dummy code image includes an identification mark 1000 indicating that it is a dummy code image, and a color code image 1010 of a dedicated color code ID used as the dummy code ID. For example, in Figure 20, "Dummy Code" is displayed as an example of the identification mark 1000 indicating that it is a dummy code image.

[0074] Dummy code images may be prepared in advance at any location, either as dummy code image data or as printed paper with dummy code images. For example, a user can copy a sheet of paper with a printed dummy code image and place it on materials along with the existing system 10 form 800. Alternatively, a user can use the dummy code image data to combine the dummy code image with the existing system 10 form 800 and print it on paper. Dummy codes can also be called special codes or temporary codes that indicate special jobs different from normal jobs.

[0075] In this embodiment, the information processing system 1 continues operation using a document 804, which is created by attaching a document 802 with a dummy code image to a document 800 for the existing system 10. Document 804 is created by attaching the document 802 with a dummy code image to the document 800 for the existing system 10 using adhesive tape, glue, clips, etc. Document 804 does not necessarily have to be attached, as long as the document 802 with the dummy code image and the document 800 for the existing system 10 are moving together. Document 804 has a dummy code color code image (dummy code image) printed on it, associated with a dummy job ID. Document 804 is used, for example, when a failure occurs.

[0076] Document 804, created during the failure, will be replaced with document 810 for the work process management system 14 after the failure is resolved. The user prints document 810 for the work process management system 14 by associating the job ID and color code image of document 800 for the existing system 10. Document 810 for the work process management system 14 in Figure 13 is the actual document. The dummy code image in document 802 with a dummy code image and the dummy code image in document 804 in Figure 13 are examples of the second image code. Also, the dummy code image in document 802 with a dummy code image and document 804 in Figure 13 are examples of the second document.

[0077] 《Updating job status upon passing through a gate》 In the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment, when the main slip with a color code image printed on it or the temporary slip with a dummy code image printed on it is photographed by the camera 18a, the job status in the job management table storage unit 52 is updated as follows.

[0078] Figure 14 is a flowchart of an example of the job status update process when passing through a gate. When the image acquisition unit 40 of the work process management system 14 acquires an image or video from the camera 18a, it proceeds from step S51 to step S52.

[0079] In step S52, the recognition unit 42 attempts to extract a color code image or a dummy code image from the captured image or video acquired by the captured image acquisition unit 40. Proceeding to step S53, the recognition unit 42 performs recognition processing of the color code image or dummy code image using, for example, the procedure described in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2017-199306.

[0080] When the recognition unit 42 recognizes a color code image or a dummy code image, it detects the image of each cell from the color code image or dummy code image. Proceeding to step S54, the recognition unit 42 recognizes the color information of each cell and the connection information of each cell detected in step S53 as symbol information.

[0081] In step S54, the recognition unit 42 decodes the symbol information according to the coding rules shown in Figure 8(A) to restore the color code ID that was encoded in the color code image or dummy code image.

[0082] The process proceeds to step S55, where the recognition unit 42 provides the management unit 34 with the identification information of the camera 18a that captured the color code image or dummy code image, and the color code ID recovered by decoding. The management unit 34 refers to the job management table storage unit 52 to identify the job ID or dummy job ID corresponding to the color code ID.

[0083] The management unit 34 can update the status managed in the job management table storage unit 52 based on the identification information of the camera 18a that captured the color code image and the job ID corresponding to the color code ID restored from the color code image. In addition, the management unit 34 can manage the locations of the slips 802 and 804 with dummy code images in Figure 13 by updating data such as shown in Figure 15, based on the identification information of the camera 18a that captured the dummy code image and the dummy job ID corresponding to the color code ID restored from the dummy code image.

[0084] Figure 15 shows an example of the data managed by the management unit. For example, the color code table is stored in the color code management table storage unit 50. The job table, location information table, and history table are stored in the job management table storage unit 52.

[0085] The color code table, job table, location information table, and history table in Figure 15 are associated with job IDs. Therefore, in this embodiment, the location can be identified from the location information table associated with the color code ID recovered from the dummy code image.

[0086] 《Temporary slip location indication》 Users such as operators of the information processing system 1 can view the location of temporary slips through the user interface screen provided by the work process management system 14.

[0087] Figure 16 is an image diagram of an example of a user interface screen displayed by a work process management system. The user interface unit 30 of the work process management system 14 displays, for example, screen 900 on the display device 502. Screen 900 includes a job ID input field 902, a search button 904, and a map display field 906.

[0088] By entering a job ID in the job ID input field 902 and pressing the search button 904, the user can display the location 908 of the job corresponding to that job ID on the map in the map display field 906.

[0089] For example, a user can enter a dummy job ID from a dummy code image slip 802 into the job ID input field 902 and press the search button 904 to display the location 908 of the job corresponding to that dummy job ID on the map in the map display field 906.

[0090] Users who issued temporary slips during a system failure should record the dummy job IDs printed on the temporary slips. The dummy job IDs can be recorded as a list, or as an image of the temporary slips. After the system failure is resolved, users can replace the temporary slips issued during the failure with the official slips using the procedure shown in Figure 17.

[0091] Figure 17 is a flowchart of an example of the procedure for replacing a temporary document with a permanent document. In step S70, the user obtains a dummy job ID for the temporary document issued during the failure. In step S72, the user reissues the permanent document for the job corresponding to the temporary document using the process shown in Figure 6.

[0092] Obtaining dummy job IDs for temporary slips issued during a system failure can be done, for example, by uploading a list of job IDs (such as a CSV file) or by storing the temporary slip image (PDF) file in a specific folder. This makes it easier for users to print the actual slips to replace the temporary slips issued during the system failure.

[0093] In step S74, the user enters the dummy job ID printed on the temporary slip into the job ID input field 902 on screen 900 in Figure 16 and presses the search button 904, thereby displaying the location 908 of the temporary slip on the map in the map display field 906.

[0094] In step S76, the user moves to the location 908 of the temporary document displayed on the map in the map display area 906 and replaces the temporary document with the actual document. The user continues replacing the temporary document with the actual document until the location 908 of the temporary document is no longer displayed on the map.

[0095] Furthermore, temporary slips may be printed with information that allows the user to visually identify them as temporary slips (for example, characters such as a dummy code, a symbol representing a dummy code, or a color representing a dummy code) to facilitate visual replacement. Additionally, the dummy job ID may be a single identifier so that temporary slips can be found with a single search. Alternatively, the dummy job ID may be an identifier that includes a common part so that temporary slips can be found with a single search.

[0096] This embodiment describes an example in which the main slip and the provisional slip are printed on a printing medium such as paper using a printer 16, but they may also be displayed on a display medium (display device) such as electronic paper or an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display).

[0097] The information processing system 1 according to this embodiment can identify the location of a specific job (such as a temporary slip issued when a failure occurs) in distinction from normal jobs (such as a job corresponding to a main slip issued when no failure occurs). Therefore, the information processing system 1 can support the facilitation of recovery work by the user, such as the replacement work of replacing a temporary slip with a main slip. Furthermore, the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment may use temporary slips to draw the user's attention to a specific type of job in distinction from normal jobs. Also, the dummy code ID is an independent, single identification piece (or a combination of multiple dummy code IDs) that is not associated with a job ID. Because the dummy code ID is a single identification piece (or a combination of multiple dummy code IDs), in this embodiment, all temporary slips can be searched in a single search using the dummy code ID or the common part, distinguishing them from main slips. In addition, the identification mark 1000 in Figure 20 facilitates visual replacement of temporary slips with main slips. If a sub-number is generated for a job, the same temporary slip should be attached to the stack of paper or pallet corresponding to the sub-number (a temporary slip that clearly identifies it as a sub-number may also be used).

[0098] [Second Embodiment] The first embodiment involved replacing a provisional voucher with a final voucher. The second embodiment involves registering a provisional voucher as a final voucher. The second embodiment is identical to the first embodiment except for a few parts. Therefore, explanations of parts identical to the first embodiment will be omitted as appropriate.

[0099] For example, if the work process management system 14 malfunctions and cannot receive the color code image 811 from the work process management system 14, the existing system 10 will not be able to create a slip 810 with the color code image 811 printed on it. During the malfunction, the job can continue using, for example, a slip 800 for the existing system 10. However, the work process management system 14 will not be able to manage the work process using a slip 800 for the existing system 10 created during the malfunction after the malfunction is resolved.

[0100] Therefore, in this embodiment, if a failure occurs in the work process management system 14 and the existing system 10 cannot receive the color code image 811 from the work process management system 14, the work can be continued by using a temporary slip with a dummy color code image printed on it, as described later. Furthermore, after the failure is resolved, in this embodiment, the temporary slip can be registered as the final slip to facilitate recovery work by the user. In this embodiment, it is also possible to use image data of a temporary slip that has been created in advance.

[0101] When the work process management system 14 is stopped due to a malfunction or other reason, the processing of the information processing system 1 is performed as shown in Figure 12, for example. The relationship between the temporary slip with a dummy code image printed by the processing in Figure 12 and the slip 800 for the existing system 10 is as shown in Figure 18, for example. Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a slip printed by the information processing system when the operation of the work process management system is stopped.

[0102] Document 800 for the existing system 10 is the original document. Image data 806 of the document with a dummy code image is the image data of a temporary document. The job ID of document 800 for the existing system 10 is an example of the first type of identification information. The job ID of image data 806 of the document with a dummy code image is an example of the second type of identification information. Note that image data 806 of the document with a dummy code image may be created in advance.

[0103] In this embodiment, operation by the information processing system 1 is continued by using a document 808, which is created by combining the image data 806 of a document with a dummy code image with a document 800 for the existing system 10. Document 808 has the job ID of the original document, a dummy job ID, and a dummy code image printed on it. Document 808 is used, for example, when a failure occurs. Document 808 is an example of a temporary document.

[0104] Document 808, created during the failure, will be registered as document 810 for the work process management system 14 after the failure is resolved. The user registers document 808, created during the failure, as document 810 for the work process management system 14. Document 810 in Figure 18 is this document. The dummy code image of document 808 in Figure 18 is an example of the second image code. Also, document 808 in Figure 18 is an example of the second document.

[0105] Users of the information processing system 1, such as operators, can view the location of temporary slips using the user interface screen shown in Figure 16, for example. For instance, a user can enter a dummy job ID for slip 808 in Figure 18 into the job ID input field 902 and press the search button 904 to display the location 908 of the job corresponding to that dummy job ID on the map in the map display field 906. After the failure is resolved, the user can register the temporary slips issued during the failure as official slips using the procedure shown in Figure 19. Note that the display of the temporary slip locations on the map is an example of a display to support the replacement work. Users can access the work process management system 14 (user interface unit 30) of the information processing system 1 using a terminal device (PC, smartphone, tablet, etc.) and display the map, making it easier to find temporary slips on-site while looking at or holding the terminal device, thus facilitating the replacement work. Furthermore, when a temporary slip is replaced with an official slip, the display of the temporary slip disappears and decreases each time it is replaced, making it easy to keep track of the number of temporary slips remaining on-site.

[0106] Figure 19 is a flowchart of an example of the procedure for registering a temporary document as a final document. After the failure is resolved, in step S80, the user obtains the job ID of document 808 shown in Figure 18, which was issued during the failure, and a dummy job ID. In step S82, the user registers the temporary document as a final document in the work process management system 14 by updating the dummy job ID associated with the dummy code image of document 808 in the work process management system 14 to the job ID of document 808.

[0107] By registering the temporary slip as the final slip through the process shown in Figure 19, the user can enter the job ID printed on the temporary slip into the job ID input field 902 on screen 900 in Figure 16 and press the search button 904 to display the location of the final slip on the map in the map display field 906.

[0108] The information processing system 1 according to this embodiment can identify the location of a specific job (such as a job corresponding to a temporary slip issued when a failure occurs) in distinction from normal jobs (such as a job corresponding to a main slip issued when no failure occurs). Therefore, according to the information processing system 1, a temporary slip can continue to be used as a main slip.

[0109] In the second embodiment, since the color code ID used as the dummy code ID is not fixed, information such as a flag to identify the color code ID used as the dummy code ID may be provided in the color code table shown in Figure 15.

[0110] The information processing system 1 according to the second embodiment can identify the location of a specific job (such as a job corresponding to a temporary slip issued when a failure occurs) in distinction from normal jobs (such as a job corresponding to a main slip issued when no failure occurs). Furthermore, the information processing system 1 according to the second embodiment can support the user in facilitating recovery work.

[0111] [Third Embodiment] The technologies of the first and second embodiments described above can be applied to transport systems, such as AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles).

[0112] For example, in a transport system for transporting goods, a slip 810 for the work process management system 14, on which a color code image 811 is printed, is attached to the goods, and the work process of the goods being transported is managed by the transport device by photographing the goods with a camera 18. In the event of a failure in the work process management system 14, the transport device can continue transporting the goods by attaching the temporary slips of the first and second embodiments described above to the goods. Furthermore, after the failure is resolved, the location of the temporary slip is easily identified, making recovery work, such as replacing the temporary slip with the permanent slip, easier.

[0113] [Fourth Embodiment] The technologies of the first and second embodiments described above can also be applied, for example, to the management of the work processes of items flowing on a conveyor belt. For example, if the technologies of this embodiment are applied to the management of the work processes of items flowing on a conveyor belt, recovery work for tracking items flowing on the conveyor belt can be made easier by using temporary slips during malfunctions.

[0114] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments specifically disclosed above, and various modifications and changes are possible without departing from the scope of the claims.

[0115] Examples of the present invention are as follows: <1> One or more photographing means for photographing a first slip on which a first image code corresponding to a first type of identification information is printed, and a second slip on which a second image code corresponding to a second type of identification information is printed, A management means that manages the position of the first slip based on the first image code recognized from the image captured by the aforementioned shooting means, and manages the position of the second slip based on the second image code recognized from the aforementioned image, A user interface means that displays the location of the second slip in response to user operation, An information processing system having [a certain feature]. <2> The first type of identification information is information used to identify jobs in existing systems, The second type of identification information is different from the information used to identify jobs in the existing system. The aforementioned <1> The information processing system described. <3> The second slip is created using the second image code corresponding to the second type of identification information that has been previously acquired, in the event that the existing system is unable to acquire the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information. The aforementioned <2> The information processing system described. <4> The management means, with respect to the job for which the progress information of the work process is managed in the second slip, takes over and manages the progress information of the work process in the first slip that is newly created and replaces the second slip. The aforementioned <2> or <3> The information processing system described. <5> The management means, for the job in which the progress information of the work process is managed on the second slip, takes over and manages the progress information of the work process on the first slip, which has registered the second type of identification information and the second image code printed on the second slip as the first type of identification information and the first image code. The aforementioned <2> or <3> The information processing system described. <6> A slip creation means for creating the first slip, It further possesses, The user interface means displays the location of the second document created in the existing system during the failure, and provides a display to support the replacement of it with the first document created after the failure is resolved. The aforementioned <4> The information processing system described. <7> Image code generation means for generating the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information, It further possesses, The existing system, when it is unable to obtain the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information due to a failure, creates the second slip using the second image code corresponding to the second type of identification information that has been obtained in advance, and when the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information becomes available after the failure is resolved, creates the first slip using the first image code corresponding to the obtained first type of identification information. The aforementioned <6> The information processing system described. <8> The management means manages the position of the second slip based on the position corresponding to the photographing means that photographed the second slip and the second image code recognized from the photographed second slip. The aforementioned <4> or <5> The information processing system described. <9> The aforementioned photographic means is a camera installed to be able to photograph the first slip and the second slip located in a position corresponding to the aforementioned work process. The aforementioned <4> ~ <8> An information processing system as described in any one of the following items. <10> The second slip has information printed on it that allows the user to visually identify it as the second slip. The aforementioned <1> ~ <9> An information processing system as described in any one of the following items. <11> The first and second slips are work instructions for a job. The aforementioned <1> ~ <10> An information processing system as described in any one of the following items. <12> A management method performed by an information processing system, A photographing step in which one or more photographing means photograph a first slip on which a first image code corresponding to a first type of identification information is printed, and a second slip on which a second image code corresponding to a second type of identification information is printed, A management step which manages the position of the first slip based on the first image code recognized from the image captured by the aforementioned shooting means, and manages the position of the second slip based on the second image code recognized from the aforementioned image, A display step that displays the location of the second slip in response to user operation, A management method having <13> Image acquisition means for acquiring captured images from one or more photographing means that photograph a first slip on which a first image code corresponding to a first type of identification information is printed, and a second slip on which a second image code corresponding to a second type of identification information is printed, A management means that manages the position of the first slip based on the first image code recognized from the captured image, and manages the position of the second slip based on the second image code recognized from the captured image, A user interface means that displays the location of the second slip in response to user operation, An information processing device having <14> Information processing equipment, Image acquisition means for acquiring captured images from one or more photographing means that photograph a first slip on which a first image code corresponding to a first type of identification information is printed, and a second slip on which a second image code corresponding to a second type of identification information is printed. A management means that manages the position of the first slip based on the first image code recognized from the captured image, and manages the position of the second slip based on the second image code recognized from the captured image. A user interface means that displays the location of the second slip in response to user operation. A program designed to function as such. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0116] 1. Information Processing System 10 Existing Systems 14. Work Process Management System 16 Printers 18, 18a, 18b cameras 20 Networks 30 User Interface Section 32 Job ID detection unit 34 Management Department 36 Image Code Generation Unit 38 Image code transmission unit 40 Image acquisition unit 42 Recognition part 50 Color Code Management Table Storage Unit 52 Job Management Table Storage Unit 800 Invoices for existing systems 802 Dummy code image included slip 804, 808 slips (provisional slips) 810 Documents for the work process management system 811 Color Code Image [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0117] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-21181

Claims

1. An information processing system comprising a first information processing device, a second information processing device, a shooting means, and a printing means, The system comprises one or more photographing means for photographing a first slip on which a first image code corresponding to a first type of identification information is printed, and a second slip on which a second image code corresponding to a second type of identification information is printed. The first type of identification information is information used by the first information processing device to identify a job, The second type of identification information is different from the information used to identify a job in the first information processing device. The second information processing device manages the position of the first slip based on the first image code recognized from the image captured by the imaging means, and also manages the position of the second slip based on the second image code recognized from the image captured, A user interface means that displays the location of the second slip in response to user operation, The system comprises a transmission means for transmitting the first image code to the first information processing device, An information processing system characterized in that, if the first information processing device is unable to obtain the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information, the first information processing device instructs the printing means to print the second slip on which the second image code corresponding to the second type of identification information that has been previously obtained is printed.

2. The management means, with respect to the job for which the progress information of the work process is managed in the second slip, takes over and manages the progress information of the work process in the first slip that is newly created and replaces the second slip. The information processing system according to claim 1, characterized by the following:

3. The management means, for the job in which the progress information of the work process is managed on the second slip, takes over and manages the progress information of the work process on the first slip, which has registered the second type of identification information and the second image code printed on the second slip as the first type of identification information and the first image code. An information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by the above.

4. A slip creation means for creating the first slip, It further possesses, The user interface means displays the location of the second slip created by the first information processing device during the failure, and provides a display to support the replacement of the second slip with the first slip created after the failure is resolved. The information processing system according to claim 2, characterized by the following:

5. Image code generation means for generating the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information, It further possesses, The first information processing device, if it is unable to obtain the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information due to a failure, creates the second slip using the second image code corresponding to the second type of identification information that has been obtained in advance, and when the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information becomes available after the failure is resolved, creates the first slip using the first image code corresponding to the obtained first type of identification information. The information processing system according to claim 4, characterized by the following:

6. The management means manages the position of the second slip based on the position corresponding to the photographing means that photographed the second slip and the second image code recognized from the photographed second slip. The information processing system according to claim 2, characterized by the following:

7. The aforementioned photographic means is a camera installed to be able to photograph the first slip and the second slip located at a position corresponding to the work process. The information processing system according to claim 2, characterized by the following:

8. The second slip has information printed on it that allows the user to visually identify it as the second slip. The information processing system according to claim 1, characterized by the following:

9. The first and second slips are work instructions for a job. The information processing system according to claim 1, characterized by the following:

10. A management method performed by an information processing system comprising a first information processing device, a second information processing device, a photographing means, and a printing means, The process includes a photographing step in which one or more photographing means photograph a first slip on which a first image code corresponding to a first type of identification information is printed, and a second slip on which a second image code corresponding to a second type of identification information is printed. The first type of identification information is information used by the first information processing device to identify a job, The second type of identification information is different from the information used to identify a job in the first information processing device. The second information processing device manages the position of the first slip based on the first image code recognized from the image captured by the imaging means, and manages the position of the second slip based on the second image code recognized from the image captured, A display step that displays the location of the second slip in response to user operation, The transmission step includes transmitting the first image code to the first information processing device, A management method characterized in that, if the first information processing device is unable to obtain the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information, the first information processing device instructs the printing means to print the second slip on which the second image code corresponding to the second type of identification information that has been previously obtained is printed.

11. A second information processing device of an information processing system comprising a first information processing device, a second information processing device, a shooting means, and a printing means, Image acquisition means for acquiring captured images from one or more shooting means that photograph a first slip on which a first image code corresponding to a first type of identification information which is information used to identify a job in a first information processing device is printed, and a second slip on which a second image code corresponding to a second type of identification information which is information different from the information used to identify a job in the first information processing device is printed, A management means for managing the position of the first slip based on the first image code recognized from the captured image, and for managing the position of the second slip based on the second image code recognized from the captured image, A user interface means that displays the location of the second slip in response to user operation, The system comprises a transmission means for transmitting the first image code to the first information processing device, If the first information processing device fails to acquire the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information, the first information processing device instructs the printing means to print the second slip on which the second image code corresponding to the second type of identification information that has been acquired in advance is printed.

12. The second information processing device of an information processing system comprising a first information processing device, a second information processing device, a shooting means, and a printing means, Image acquisition means for acquiring captured images from one or more shooting means that photograph a first slip on which a first image code corresponding to a first type of identification information, which is information used to identify a job in a first information processing device, is printed, and a second slip on which a second image code corresponding to a second type of identification information, which is information different from the information used to identify a job in the first information processing device, is printed. A management means that manages the position of the first slip based on the first image code recognized from the captured image, and manages the position of the second slip based on the second image code recognized from the captured image. A user interface means that displays the location of the second slip in response to user operation. The system comprises a transmission means for transmitting the first image code to the first information processing device, A program for causing the first information processing device to function such that, if the first information processing device is unable to obtain the first image code corresponding to the first type of identification information, the first information processing device instructs the printing means to print the second slip on which the second image code corresponding to the second type of identification information that has been previously obtained is printed.

Images