Simulation device, control method for the simulation device, and program for the simulation device

Abstract

To provide a simulation device that can prevent fabrication and falsification of data in performing evaluation using simulation.SOLUTION: A simulation device includes: an input unit that receives an input of both a target object definition information including at least any one of a structure and material of a simulation target object and simulation condition information; a first hash generation unit that generates a first hash based on the target object definition information; an execution unit that executes simulation by using the target object definition information and simulation condition information; a report generation unit that generates a report having the first hash embedded therein, based on a simulation result; and a meta data registration unit that stores the first hash and the report in association with each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[[Technical Field]]

[0001] The present invention relates to a simulation apparatus, a control method for a simulation apparatus, and a program for a simulation apparatus. [[Background Art]]

[0002] In the automobile industry, crash safety is extremely important, and currently crash safety is confirmed through actual vehicle experiments. Actual vehicle experiments are conducted in the presence of a neutral third party other than the automobile manufacturer. In such experiments, a randomly selected vehicle is used, sensors are attached to a mannequin that simulates a human, and evaluation is performed based on the output signals of the sensors.

[0003] The actual vehicle experiments described above require extremely high costs, and it is expected that requirements for crash safety will increase in the future compared to the present, so it is considered that costs for experiments will become even higher.

[0004] Accordingly, there is a growing need for digital authentication (virtual testing) that replaces actual vehicle experiments with detailed finite element simulation.

[0005] When performing evaluation based on virtual testing instead of actual vehicle experiments, it is necessary to guarantee the authenticity of simulation result data. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses an invention relating to a measuring device that guarantees data authenticity by calculating a hash value based on a measurement data file, encrypting the hash value based on a secret key, and reflecting the resulting signature in the data file. [[Prior Art Documents]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0006] [[Patent Document 1]] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2011-133967 [[Summary of the Invention]] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] However, when performing digital authentication, there is no actual vehicle to be evaluated, and verification by a neutral third party is not possible. Therefore, in addition to ensuring that the simulation results data has not been tampered with, it becomes important to verify that the simulation was performed using a legitimate simulation target model in order to guarantee the authenticity of the result data. Detailed finite element models are generally confidential, and automakers do not disclose them to outsiders. As a result, automakers specify the finite element model, perform the simulations themselves, and evaluate the results. Therefore, there is a risk that automakers may fabricate data or falsify data to obtain favorable results. This is considered a new risk created by the evolution of digital technology.

[0008] Furthermore, this type of problem can arise not only when performing collision safety evaluations using finite element simulations, but also in any evaluation that uses simulations, such as material property evaluation, structural evaluation, seismic performance evaluation, and electromagnetic properties.

[0009] The present invention was made to solve the above problems, and aims to provide a simulation device, a control method for the simulation device, and a program for the simulation device that can prevent data fabrication and data falsification when performing evaluation using simulation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] To solve the above-mentioned problems, a first aspect of the simulation apparatus of the present invention is: An input unit that accepts input of definition information for the target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information, A first hash generation unit generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target object, An execution unit that executes the simulation using the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information, A report generation unit generates a report with the first hash embedded based on the results of the simulation, A metadata registration unit that stores the first hash and the report in association, Equipped with,

[0011] According to the present invention, the input unit receives input of definition information for a target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information. The first hash generation unit generates a first hash based on the definition information for the target object. The execution unit then executes the simulation using the definition information for the target object and the simulation condition information. When the simulation is executed, the report generation unit generates a report with the first hash embedded in it based on the simulation results. The metadata registration unit stores the first hash and the report in association. Therefore, authenticity verification can be performed at the target model stage and at the report stage, providing a simulation device that enables highly reliable digital authentication.

[0012] In another embodiment of the simulation apparatus of the present invention, The system further comprises a second hash generation unit that generates a second hash based on the aforementioned simulation condition information, or based on the aforementioned simulation condition information and the first hash, The report generation unit generates a report in which the second hash is embedded in place of the first hash when the second hash generation unit generates the second hash based on the simulation condition information and the first hash, and generates a report in which the second hash is embedded in addition to the first hash when the second hash generation unit generates the second hash based on the simulation condition information. The metadata registration unit may store the first hash and the second hash in association with the report. According to this embodiment, the second hash generation unit can generate a second hash based on simulation condition information, or based on simulation condition information and the first hash. Furthermore, when the second hash generation unit generates a second hash based on simulation condition information and the first hash, the report generation unit generates a report in which the second hash is embedded in place of the first hash. Also, when the second hash generation unit generates a second hash based on simulation condition information, the report generation unit generates a report in which the second hash is embedded in addition to the first hash. The metadata registration unit may store the first hash and the second hash in association with the report. The metadata registration unit stores the first hash and the second hash in association with the report. As a result, if the second hash is created based on the simulation condition information and the first hash, authenticity verification at the target model stage and authenticity verification at the report stage can be performed based on at least the second hash, and if the second hash is created based on the simulation condition information, authenticity verification can be performed based on the first hash, or based on the first and second hashes. Therefore, a simulation device capable of highly reliable digital authentication can be provided.

[0013] In another embodiment of the simulation apparatus of the present invention, The input unit is capable of receiving input of the target model of the simulation, which is an integrated set of the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information. The aforementioned target model may further include a definition information determination unit that determines the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information. According to this embodiment, the input unit receives input of a simulation target model, which integrates the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information. The definition information discrimination unit then distinguishes between the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information within the target model. Therefore, the first hash generation unit can generate a first hash based on the definition information of the target object determined by the definition information discrimination unit. As a result, authenticity verification can be performed at the target model stage and at the report stage, providing a simulation device that enables highly reliable digital authentication.

[0014] In another embodiment of the simulation apparatus of the present invention, The system includes a quality determination unit that determines the quality of the target model, including whether or not there are any defects or abnormalities. The first hash generation unit may generate a first hash based on the definition information in the target model that the quality determination unit has determined to have no quality issues. According to this embodiment, the first hash generation unit generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target model that the quality determination unit has determined to have no quality problems, thereby providing a simulation device that enables even more reliable digital authentication.

[0015] In another embodiment of the simulation apparatus of the present invention, Based on the aforementioned report, the system includes a third hash generation unit that generates a third hash, The metadata registration unit may also store the third hash in association with the report. According to this aspect, when a report is inspected, the report to be inspected can be compared with the stored report and the third hash associated with the report, thereby providing a simulation apparatus capable of achieving more highly reliable digital authentication.

[0016] In another aspect of the simulation apparatus of the present invention, comprising a key information generating unit that generates key information based on at least user account information, the metadata registration unit may also store the key information in association with the report. According to this aspect, since the key information is also stored in association with the report, when the report is inspected, the report to be inspected can be compared with the stored report and the key information associated with the report, thereby providing a simulation system capable of achieving more highly reliable digital authentication.

[0017] In another aspect of the simulation apparatus of the present invention, the report generating unit may generate the report including the key information. According to this aspect, when a report is inspected, the report to be inspected can be compared with the stored report including the key information, thereby providing a simulation system capable of achieving more highly reliable digital authentication.

[0018] In another aspect of the simulation apparatus of the present invention, the apparatus may further comprise a model checking unit that inputs information corresponding to the key information, executes search for data stored by the metadata registration unit, and outputs the report associated with the key information. According to this embodiment, when a report is inspected, the model inspection unit inputs information corresponding to key information, performs a search of the data stored by the metadata registration unit, and outputs the report associated with the key information. Therefore, it becomes possible to inspect reports with high reliability, and a simulation system that enables even more reliable digital authentication can be provided.

[0019] In another embodiment of the simulation apparatus of the present invention, The model inspection unit may extract the hash embedded in the report, compare it with the stored hash, and output the comparison result. According to this embodiment, when a report is being inspected, the model inspection unit extracts the hash embedded in the report being inspected and compares it with the stored hash. Therefore, it becomes possible to inspect reports with high reliability, and a simulation system that enables even more reliable digital authentication can be provided.

[0020] In another embodiment of the simulation apparatus of the present invention, The model inspection unit may input the target model, generate the first hash or, if another hash based on the first hash has been generated based on the input target model, generate that other hash, compare it with the hash embedded in the report, and output the matching result. According to this embodiment, when a model inspection is performed on a target model, the model inspection unit generates a first hash, or, if other hashes based on the first hash have been generated, such other hashes, based on the target model being inspected. It then compares these hashes embedded in the stored report and outputs the matching result. Therefore, it becomes possible to perform inspections of the target model with high reliability, and to provide a simulation system that enables even more reliable digital authentication.

[0021] In another embodiment of the simulation apparatus of the present invention, The metadata registration unit may store each data item in a tree-like structure. According to this embodiment, the metadata registration unit stores each data in a tree-like structure, making it easier to grasp the stored report data when inspecting reports or target models. Therefore, highly accurate inspections become possible, and a simulation system with even more reliable digital authentication can be provided.

[0022] To solve the above-mentioned problems, a first aspect of the control method for the simulation apparatus of the present invention is: The input unit receives input of definition information for the target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information. The first hash generation unit generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target object, The steps include: executing the simulation using the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information; The report generation unit generates a report with the first hash embedded in it based on the results of the simulation, The metadata registration unit includes the step of associating and storing the first hash with the report.

[0023] According to the present invention, the input unit receives input of definition information for a target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information. The first hash generation unit generates a first hash based on the definition information for the target object. The execution unit then executes the simulation using the definition information for the target object and the simulation condition information. When the simulation is executed, the report generation unit generates a report with the first hash embedded in it based on the simulation results. The metadata registration unit stores the first hash and the report in association. Therefore, authenticity verification can be performed at the target model stage and at the report stage, and simulation results that enable highly reliable digital authentication can be provided.

[0024] To solve the above-mentioned problems, a first aspect of the program for the simulation apparatus of the present invention is: A program for a simulation device, wherein the program is controlled by a computer. A step of receiving input of definition information for the target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information, A step of generating a first hash based on the definition information of the target object, The steps include: executing the simulation using the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information; The steps include generating a report with the first hash embedded based on the results of the simulation, The procedure involves performing the step of associating and storing the first hash with the report.

[0025] According to the present invention, the computer receives input of definition information for a target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the target object, and simulation condition information. The computer also generates a first hash based on the definition information for the target object. The computer then executes a simulation using the definition information for the target object and the simulation condition information. Once the simulation is executed, the computer generates a report embedded with the first hash based on the simulation results. The computer then stores the first hash and the report in association. Therefore, authenticity verification can be performed at the target model stage and at the report stage, and simulation results that enable highly reliable digital authentication can be provided. [Effects of the Invention]

[0026] According to the present invention, authenticity verification can be performed at the target model stage and at the report stage, providing a simulation system that enables highly reliable digital authentication. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0027] [Figure 1] This figure shows a schematic configuration of the simulation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This figure shows the functional blocks of the simulation system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the data flow in the simulation system of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] This is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the program for checking the target model in the simulation system of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] This figure shows the generation process of the first hash and the second hash in the simulation system of the first embodiment. [Figure 6]This figure shows a specific example of the target model in the simulation system of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] This flowchart shows the operation flow of the finite element simulation program in the simulation system of the first embodiment. [Figure 8] This is a diagram illustrating the method for storing the first hash and the second hash in the simulation system of the first embodiment. [Figure 9] This figure shows the generation process of the first hash, the second hash, and the resulting hash in the simulation system of the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] This figure illustrates the method for storing the first hash, the second hash, and the resulting hash in the simulation system of the second embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0028] (First Embodiment) Hereinafter, a simulation system according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, the description will be based on an example of a configuration in which finite element simulation is used to evaluate the collision safety of a vehicle. Figure 1 is a diagram showing the schematic configuration of the simulation system 100 according to this embodiment. As shown in Figure 1, the simulation system 100 of this embodiment comprises a simulation device 110 and a server 120 connected to the simulation device 110 via a network 200 such as the Internet. As shown in Figure 1, the simulation device 110 comprises a central processing unit 1, a display device 2, a storage device 3, an input device 4, an output device 5, and a communication device 6.

[0029] The central processing unit 1 is a device capable of executing programs such as those in a personal computer, and includes a CPU and memory. The display device 2 is a device capable of displaying characters and images, such as a liquid crystal display. The storage device 3 is a device capable of storing programs and data, such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and an external server may be used. The program of the present invention is stored in the storage device 3. The input device 4 is a device that allows user input of data or instructions, such as a keyboard. The output device 5 is a device capable of outputting characters and images, such as a printer. In the simulation system 100 of this embodiment, the output device 5 may be omitted. The communication device 6 is an interface that enables communication with the server 120 and other devices via the network 200.

[0030] Server 120 is used as a storage location for metadata and reports resulting from simulations, as described later. However, in this invention, the storage location for metadata and reports does not necessarily have to be a server; it may be a local storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), a cloud server, or a network such as a blockchain.

[0031] Figure 2 shows the functional blocks that function when the central processing unit 1 of the simulation device 110 executes the program of the present invention. As shown in Figure 2, the central processing unit 1 functions as a control unit 10. The control unit 10 also functions as an input unit 11, a definition information discrimination unit 12, a first hash generation unit 13, a second hash generation unit 14, an execution unit 15, an embedding unit 16, a report generation unit 17, a server registration unit 19, a quality determination unit 20, a metadata registration unit 21, and a key information generation unit 22, according to the program of the present invention.

[0032] In this embodiment, the program of the present invention is executable in the simulation device 110. The program of the present invention has three main functions: a target model check function, a finite element simulation function for collision safety evaluation, and a model inspection function.

[0033] The input unit 11 inputs the target model to be simulated in finite element simulation when the target model check function is executed in the simulation device 110. The target model is input by, for example, the user specifying the target model file. As described later, the target model includes definition information of the target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the target object, and simulation condition information. The input unit 11 also inputs a user account when the finite element simulation function is executed in the simulation device 110. The user account is input by the user pressing the user account string on a keyboard or the like. The system may also be configured to accept access via ID card or biometric authentication and input the corresponding account information.

[0034] The definition information discrimination unit 12, when the target model check function is executed in the simulation device 110, distinguishes between the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information from the input target model. However, in the present invention, the definition information discrimination unit 12 is not essential; for example, the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information may be defined separately in the target model beforehand.

[0035] The first hash generation unit 13 generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target object determined as described above when the target model check function is executed in the simulation device 110. Details regarding the generation of the first hash will be described later.

[0036] The simulation device 110 executes the target model check function, and once the check of the target model is complete, the checked target model is internally passed to the finite element simulation function as an authenticated target model, along with the first hash generated as described above.

[0037] The second hash generation unit 14 generates a second hash from the first hash and the simulation condition information of the authenticated target model when the finite element simulation function is executed in the simulation device 110. Details of the generation of the second hash will be described later.

[0038] When the finite element simulation function is executed in the simulation device 110, the execution unit 15 performs a finite element simulation for collision safety evaluation using the certified target model.

[0039] The embedding unit 16 embeds the first hash and the second hash into the simulation results from the execution unit 15 when the finite element simulation program is started in the simulation device 110.

[0040] The report generation unit 17 generates a report based on the simulation results, which have a first hash and a second hash embedded in them, when the finite element simulation function is executed in the simulation device 110.

[0041] The server registration unit 19 stores a report on the server 120 when the finite element simulation function is executed on the simulation device 110.

[0042] The quality judgment unit 20 checks whether there are any defects or unnatural points in the input target model. Defects and unnatural points include, for example, the definition of properties that are not actually possible in the numerical calculation model, such as iron being as light as plastic, or cushions being impossibly hard.

[0043] The metadata registration unit 21 stores the key, the first hash, and the second hash (described later) as metadata on the server 120.

[0044] The key information generation unit 22 generates a key from the user account entered by the user and data such as the inspection date and time.

[0045] Next, the general operation of this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 3 to 8. As shown in Figure 3, in this embodiment, the program of the present invention includes a target model check function and a finite element simulation function for collision safety evaluation, which are executed in the simulation device 110.

[0046] <Target Model Check Function> First, the operation of the target model check function in this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 3 to 5. When the target model check function is executed in the simulation device 110, the input unit 11 of the simulation device 110 becomes ready for input of the target model.

[0047] The target model is a model created using Finite Element Modeling (FEM), and finite element simulations analyze this target model. Figure 5 shows an example of the schematic configuration of the target model 220. As shown in Figure 5, the target model 220 includes definition information 201 for the target object and simulation condition information 202.

[0048] The target object definition information 201 defines at least one of the target object's structure and / or materials, and is synonymous with product specifications, representing what will be materialized as a product. The content of this target object definition information 201 greatly influences the simulation results, and in order to perform reliable digital authentication, it is necessary to prevent the fabrication or falsification of the target object definition information 201 data. In other words, the target object definition information 201 is information that must not change.

[0049] Simulation condition information 202 is information that sets the conditions for the simulation, such as the state of the target object, surrounding conditions, and environment. Therefore, unlike the target object definition information 201, simulation condition information 202 is information that changes considerably from one simulation to the next.

[0050] The target model 220 described above is pre-stored in the storage device 3 of the simulation device 110, for example. When the user specifies a stored target model 220, the input unit 11 of the simulation device 110 inputs the target model 220 (Figure 4: Step S1).

[0051] The quality determination unit 20 of the simulation device 110 checks whether the input target model 220 has any formal defects or unnatural points such as out-of-range values ​​or combinations (Figure 4: Step S2). If an error is detected in the target model 220 as a result of the data check (Figure 4: Step S3; YES), the program for checking the target model is terminated, for example, by displaying a message that an error has occurred on the display device 2 of the simulation device 110.

[0052] However, if no errors are detected in the target model 220 as a result of the data check (Figure 4: Step S3; NO), the definition information discrimination unit 12 of the simulation device 110 will determine the definition information 201 of the target object within the target model 220 (Figure 4: Step S4).

[0053] In the target model 220, it is possible to clearly separate the definition information 201 of the target object from the simulation condition information 202. Figure 6 shows a specific example of the target model 220. As shown in Figure 6, the definition information 201 of the target object contains keywords such as *MAT_PIECEWISE_LINEAR_PLASTICITY and *NODE. If the keyword is *MAT_, it signals that the description of the material begins here, and if it is *NODE, it signals that the description of the nodes begins here. In the case of the keyword *MAT_, there are PIECEWISE_LINEAR_PLASTICITY, ELASTIC, or _OGDEN_RUBBER after *MAT_, and these are called the "types" of materials. If the keyword is *MAT_, it defines the material properties of the material to be used, such as iron or plastic. If the keyword is *NODE, it defines the information of the nodes. Finite element analysis, a numerical calculation method, places nodes in space and connects them to create elements (triangles and quadrilaterals). These are then connected further to form an actual object in space.

[0054] In this embodiment, a configuration file for identification is pre-stored in the storage device 3. This configuration file contains information such as material information starting with *MAT_ and information that the *NODE number is in the 200,000 range, which is the definition information 201 of the target object. If the keyword is *NODE, the *NODE number and the X, Y, and Z coordinates are combined into a single line.

[0055] The definition information discrimination unit 12 identifies the portion of the target model 220 that contains the definition information 201 of the target object by referring to a configuration file for discrimination.

[0056] Next, the first hash generation unit 13 of the simulation device 110 generates a first hash based on the definition information 201 of the target object identified as described above (Figure 4: Step S5). Diagrammatically, as shown in Figure 5, the first hash 203 is generated from the definition information 201 of the target object among the target model 220.

[0057] The first hash can be generated using any type of hashing function. The first hash generation unit 13 uses the hashing function to map data of arbitrary length to different lengths. Various hashing algorithms exist for hash generation, and in this embodiment, they can be used to translate the data of the target object definition information 201 into different forms.

[0058] The quality determination unit 20 then identifies the target model for which the data check has been completed as described above as the authenticated target model 204 and outputs it along with the first hash 203 (Figure 4: Step S6). For example, the quality determination unit 20 stores the authenticated target model 204 and the first hash 203 in the storage device 3.

[0059] As shown in Figure 3, the authenticated target model 204 and the first hash 203 are passed from the target model check function to the finite element simulation function and used in the finite element simulation function.

[0060] <Finite element simulation function> First, the operation of the finite element simulation function for evaluating vehicle crash safety in this embodiment will be explained with reference to Figures 3, 5, 7, and 8. When the finite element simulation function is executed in the simulation device 110, the input unit 11 of the simulation device 110 becomes ready for user account input.

[0061] When the user enters their user account using a keyboard or the like, the input unit 11 of the simulation device 110 inputs the user account (Figure 7: Step S10). At this time, the input unit 11 also acquires calendar and clock information from the simulation device 110.

[0062] As shown in Figure 3, when user account 205 is entered, the key information generation unit 22 of the simulation device 110 generates key 206 based on inspection / quality confirmation date and time information based on calendar and clock information, and user account 205 (Figure 7: Step S11).

[0063] As shown in Figure 3, the metadata registration unit 21 of the simulation device 110 registers the generated key 206, along with the second hash 207 (described later) and the first hash 203 (mentioned above), as metadata 209 with the server 120. Furthermore, as will be described later, the key 206 is referenced during report generation and stored in the server 120 along with the simulation results.

[0064] Meanwhile, the second hash generation unit 14 of the simulation device 110 reads the authenticated target model 204 and the first hash 203 stored in the storage device 3 and performs preprocessing (Figure 7: Step S12). The target model includes parts that can change due to different conditions and parts that must not change even if the conditions change. Therefore, when generating the second hash, it is necessary to exclude the parts that can change due to different conditions from the target of second hash generation so that the parts that can change due to different conditions are not referenced. In this embodiment, this process is called preprocessing.

[0065] Next, the second hash generation unit 14 generates a second hash 207 based on the authenticated target model 204 (Figure 7: Step S13). Diagrammatically, as shown in Figure 5, the second hash 207 is generated from the first hash 203 and the simulation condition information 202 from the target model 220. Note that although the example shown in Figure 5 illustrates the generation of the second hash 207 from the first hash 203 and the simulation condition information 202, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the second hash 207 may be generated from the first hash 203 and the entire target model 220. Furthermore, the second hash 207 may be generated from the first hash 203 and the hash of the entire target model 220. Alternatively, the second hash 207 may be generated from only the simulation condition information 202.

[0066] The second hash, like the first hash, can be generated using any type of hashing function. The second hash generation unit 14 uses the hashing function to map data of arbitrary length to different lengths. Various hashing algorithms exist for hash generation, and in this embodiment, they can be used to translate the data of the first hash 203 and the simulation condition information 202 into different forms.

[0067] As shown in Figure 3, the metadata registration unit 21 stores the second hash 207 generated in this way, together with the first hash 203 and the key 206, as metadata 209 in the server 120.

[0068] In this case, the metadata registration unit 21 securely stores the first hash 203 and the second hash 207 by associating them with each other. Blockchain can be used as a means of securely storing them by associating them with each other. For example, if the simulation conditions are different, the content of the simulation condition information 202 will also be different. However, as shown in Figure 8, the first hash 203 generated based on the definition information 201 of a common target object, and the second hash 207 generated from the first hash 203 and the simulation condition information 202, can be securely stored by associating them with each other, for example, using a blockchain.

[0069] The metadata registration unit 21 stores each data item in a tree-like structure, as shown in Figure 10, for example.

[0070] In the example shown in Figure 8, the second hashes 207Aa, 207Ab, and 207Ac are interrelated to the first hash 203A. Similarly, the second hashes 207Ba and 207Bb are interrelated to the first hash 203B.

[0071] Next, the execution unit 15 of the simulation device 110 performs a finite element simulation for collision safety evaluation using the certified target model 204 (Figure 7: Step S14). Note that this simulation takes several hours to tens of hours to run.

[0072] When the simulation is complete, the embedding unit 16 of the simulation device 110 embeds the first hash 203 and the second hash 207 into the simulation result 208 (Figure 7: Step S15). The data flow is as shown in Figure 3.

[0073] Then, the report generation unit 17 of the simulation device 110 generates a report based on the simulation result 208, which has the first hash 203 and the second hash 207 embedded in it (Figure 7: Step S16). Since the simulation result is merely a list of numerical data, it is necessary to create output materials in a specified format, such as graphs or screenshots, that can be interpreted by humans. In this embodiment, such output materials are referred to as reports. In this embodiment, the first hash 203 and the second hash 207 are also embedded in the report.

[0074] Once the report is generated, the server registration unit 19 of the simulation device 110 performs the process of associating the generated report 210, the key 206, the first hash 203, and the second hash 207 with each other and storing them in the server 120 (Figure 7: Step S17).

[0075] Once this registration process is completed, the check program installed on server 120 determines whether the key 206, the first hash 203, and the second hash 207 registered as metadata match the key 206, the first hash 203, and the second hash 207 that were registered along with the report 210. This check program verifies whether the hashes created before the simulation is executed are correctly included in the calculation results. This check program may be executed on server 120, or it may be executed on the simulation device 110 before storage on server 120.

[0076] In this embodiment, the system is configured so that if the key 206, the first hash 203, and the second hash 207 do not match, the data will not be stored on the server 120.

[0077] <Evaluation Process> Next, the evaluation process for reports registered in the server 120 as described above will be explained. As shown in Figure 3, the evaluator performs the evaluation using an information processing device 300 that can communicate with the server 120 via the internet or the like.

[0078] First, the evaluator inputs the user account and inspection date and time data 301 into the information processing device 300. The user account entered at this time is the same user account 205 that was entered when the simulation was run. The evaluator is a third-party organization separate from, for example, the manufacturer that runs the simulation, and has the authority to access the data used in the simulation. Therefore, when this third-party organization runs the simulation, it inputs user account 205 into the simulation device 110, and when performing the evaluation, it inputs the same user account as user account 205 into the information processing device 300.

[0079] The information processing device 300 generates a key 302 based on the user account and inspection date and time data 301, and uses this key 302 to search for reports on the server 120. If the server 120 determines that there is a report 210 associated with a key 206 that matches key 302, it outputs the report 210, along with key 206 and a second hash 207, to the information processing device 300.

[0080] In this way, the evaluator can download report 210, which was found using key 302, and obtain a file of report 210 whose authenticity is guaranteed.

[0081] <Processing of authenticity verification procedures> Next, the process for verifying authenticity will be described. If the evaluator determines that there are suspicious points in the simulation results, a model check will be requested. The model check may be performed offline (on-site inspection) or online. Furthermore, the model check may be performed in the information processing device 300 or in the simulation device 110. In either case, the central processing unit in the information processing device 300 or the central processing unit 1 in the simulation device 110 will function as the model check unit.

[0082] When the model check unit performs a model check, it inputs information corresponding to key 206, and the metadata registration unit 21 searches the data stored on the server 120. Then, it outputs the report 210 associated with the input key 206.

[0083] Alternatively, the model inspection unit may extract the hash embedded in the report 210 being inspected, compare that hash with the hash stored in the server 120, and output the matching result.

[0084] Furthermore, the model checking unit may take the target model to be checked as input, generate a first hash and a second hash based on the input target model, compare these hashes with the report 210 stored on the server 120 or the hash embedded in the report 210 to be checked, and output the matching result.

[0085] In this way, by verifying the first and second hashes, it is possible to confirm whether the report was generated based on a genuine target model 220.

[0086] As described above, according to this embodiment, even when performing digital authentication using a finite element simulation target model that is confidential information for manufacturers and others and should not be leaked to the outside, it is possible to prevent data fabrication and data falsification, and to provide a simulation device that enables highly reliable digital authentication.

[0087] In particular, because the present invention includes a mechanism for hashing the authenticated target model, it can provide a simulation device that enables highly reliable digital authentication.

[0088] Furthermore, since the definition information of the target object that must not change is hashed as a first hash, and a second hash is generated based on the simulation condition information that can change and the first hash, it is possible to provide a simulation device that enables highly reliable digital authentication even in multiple simulations with different types of occupants and vehicle speed conditions.

[0089] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 9 and 10.

[0090] In the first embodiment, a method was described in which a first hash 203 is generated from the definition information 201 of the target object, and a second hash 207 is generated from the first hash 203 and the simulation condition information 202 or the entire target model 220 or the hash of the entire target model 220.

[0091] However, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and the resulting hash 211 may be generated using the report 210, which is the result of the simulation.

[0092] As shown in Figure 9, the generation of the first hash 203 and the second hash 207 are the same as in the first embodiment. However, in this embodiment, a third hash generation unit is provided, which generates a resulting hash 211 from the second hash 207 and the entire report 210, which is the result of the simulation.

[0093] Furthermore, the third hash generation unit generates the resulting hash 211 from the second hash 207 and the overall hash of the report 210.

[0094] Furthermore, the first hash 203 and / or the second hash 207 may be embedded in the report 210, which is the result of the simulation, and the resulting hash 211 may be generated from the entire report 210 or the hash of the entire report 210 and the second hash 207.

[0095] Alternatively, a hash corresponding to the version of the simulation program may be embedded in the report 210, which is the result of the simulation. The resulting hash 211 may then be generated from the entire report 210 or from the hash of the entire report 210 and the second hash 207.

[0096] The resulting hash 211, generated in the manner described above, is securely stored in association with the first hash 203 and the second hash 207, for example, using a blockchain.

[0097] In the example shown in Figure 10, the second hashes 207Aa, 207Ab, and 207Ac are interconnected with the first hash 203A. Furthermore, the result hash 211AaR is interconnected with the second hash 207Aa, and the result hashes 211AbR1, 211AbR2, and 211AbR3 are interconnected with the second hash 207Ab. Three different result hashes are generated here to ensure robustness. Three different simulation results are generated, and hashes are created for each simulation result, in order to evaluate whether performance does not significantly decrease even if the conditions are slightly different. For example, even if the second hash is the same, it indicates that these are hashes for three different simulation results, for example, when the vehicle speed is slightly changed.

[0098] Alternatively, as shown in Figure 10, the report 210, which is the result of the simulation, may be saved in association with the result hash 211.

[0099] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to compare not only the first hash and / or the second hash, but also the resulting hash, thereby providing a system that enables even more reliable digital authentication.

[0100] (modified version) The embodiments described above are illustrative, and various modifications are possible without departing from the scope of this invention. In the embodiments described above, as an example, an embodiment using finite element simulation to evaluate the collision safety of a vehicle was explained, but the present invention is not limited to such embodiments. For example, it can be applied to any evaluation that can be evaluated by simulation, such as material property evaluation, structural evaluation, seismic evaluation, and electromagnetic property evaluation.

[0101] In the embodiment described above, a first hash 203 is generated from the definition information 201 of the target object in the target model 220, and a second hash 207 is generated from the first hash 203 and the simulation condition information 202 in the target model 220. These first hashes 203 and second hashes 207 are linked and stored by the metadata registration unit 21, and the first hash 203 and second hashes 207 are embedded in the report. In this embodiment, the model inspection unit inputs the target model to be inspected, generates the first and second hashes based on the input target model, matches these hashes with the report 210 stored in the server 120 or the hashes embedded in the report 210 to be inspected, and outputs the matching result.

[0102] However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the report may only embed the second hash 207, and the model inspection unit may input the target model to be inspected, generate a second hash based on the input target model, compare the second hash with the report 210 stored on the server 120 or the second hash embedded in the report 210 to be inspected, and output the matching result. Even in this case, since the second hash 207 contains the information of the first hash 203, it is possible to confirm whether the report was generated based on a genuine target model 220 by checking the second hash.

[0103] Alternatively, the second hash 207 may be generated from the simulation condition information 202 without including the information from the first hash 203. In this case, the first hash and the second hash 207 are embedded in the report. The model inspection unit may then input the target model to be inspected, generate the first and second hashes based on the input target model, compare the first and second hashes with the first and second hashes embedded in the report 210 stored on the server 120 or the report 210 to be inspected, and output the matching result. In this way, it is possible to confirm whether the report was generated based on the genuine target model 220.

[0104] Furthermore, the report may only embed the first hash, and the model checking unit may input the target model to be checked, generate the first hash based on the input target model, compare the first hash with the report 210 stored on the server 120 or the first hash embedded in the report 210 to be checked, and output the matching result. In this way, it is possible to confirm whether the report was generated based on the genuine target model 220.

[0105] Thus, to determine the origin of a report, it is sufficient to embed only the first hash in the report. This is because, by tracing the tree structure shown in Figure 10 from the first hash, it is possible to identify the report and determine whether or not it has been tampered with.

[0106] As described above, according to the present invention, fraud can be prevented even if, for example, a first calculation result using a first model whose characteristics have been maliciously modified and is known to have high performance is submitted together with a second model with normal characteristics, and an application is made requesting a high evaluation because the first calculation result was obtained using the second model. In other words, according to the present invention, since the hash of the target model can be checked based on the first calculation result, it is possible to reliably determine that the second model is not the target model used to obtain the first calculation result.

[0107] Furthermore, the present invention can prevent not only the tampering of the target model, but also the tampering and fabrication of evaluation results. For example, methods of tampering with or fabricating evaluation results include using an unauthorized model, performing the evaluation with an inappropriate program, or altering the evaluation results themselves. However, according to the present invention, these fraudulent activities can be prevented, and the integrity of the entire process can be guaranteed.

[0108] The program for the simulation apparatus described above can be provided in a form stored on a computer-readable recording medium and installed on the computer. The recording medium is, for example, a non-transitory recording medium, such as an optical recording medium like a CD-ROM, but can include any known form of recording medium such as a semiconductor recording medium or a magnetic recording medium. It is also possible to provide the aforementioned program via a communication network and install it on the computer.

[0109] Although the simulation apparatus, control method for the simulation apparatus, and program for the simulation apparatus according to embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0110] 10 Control Unit 11 Input section 12 Definition information determination section 13. First Hash Generation Unit 14 Second Hash Generation Unit 15. Execution Unit 16 Embedded part 17 Report Generation Department 19 Server Registration Section 21 Metadata Registration Section 22 Key Information Generation Unit 100 Simulation Systems 110 Simulation device 120 servers

Claims

1. An input unit that accepts input of definition information for the target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information, A first hash generation unit generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target object, An execution unit that executes the simulation using the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information, A report generation unit generates a report with the first hash embedded based on the results of the simulation, A metadata registration unit that stores the first hash and the report in association, The system comprises a second hash generation unit that generates a second hash based on the simulation condition information, or based on the simulation condition information and the first hash, The report generation unit generates a report in which the second hash is embedded in place of the first hash when the second hash generation unit generates the second hash based on the simulation condition information and the first hash, and generates a report in which the second hash is embedded in addition to the first hash when the second hash generation unit generates the second hash based on the simulation condition information. The metadata registration unit stores the first hash and the second hash in association with the report. Simulation device.

2. The input unit is capable of receiving input of a simulation target model in which the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information are integrated. The aforementioned target model further comprises a definition information determination unit that determines the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information. The simulation apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The system includes a quality determination unit that determines the quality, including whether there are any deficiencies or abnormalities in the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information. The first hash generation unit generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target object, which the quality determination unit has determined to have no quality issues. The simulation apparatus according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. Based on the aforementioned report, the system includes a third hash generation unit that generates a third hash, The metadata registration unit also stores the third hash in association with the report. A simulation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. An input unit that receives input of definition information of a target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information, A first hash generation unit generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target object, An execution unit that executes the simulation using the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information, A report generation unit generates a report with the first hash embedded based on the results of the simulation, A metadata registration unit that stores the first hash and the report in association, It comprises at least a key information generation unit that generates key information based on the user's account information, The metadata registration unit also stores the key information in association with the report. Simulation device.

6. The report generation unit creates the report including the key information. The simulation apparatus according to claim 5.

7. A model inspection unit that inputs information corresponding to the key information, performs a search of data stored by the metadata registration unit, and outputs the report associated with the key information, The simulation apparatus according to claim 5 or claim 6.

8. The model inspection unit retrieves the hash embedded in the report, compares it with the stored hash, and outputs the matching result. The simulation apparatus according to claim 7.

9. The model inspection unit inputs the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information, generates the first hash based on the input definition information of the target object, or, if another hash based on the first hash has been generated, generates that other hash, matches it with the hash embedded in the report, and outputs the matching result. The simulation apparatus according to claim 7 or claim 8.

10. The metadata registration unit stores each data in a tree-like structure. A simulation apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. An input step in which the input unit receives input of definition information of a target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information, A first hash generation step in which a first hash generation unit generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target object, A simulation execution step in which the simulation is performed using the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information, A report generation step in which the report generation unit generates a report with the first hash embedded based on the results of the simulation, A storage step in which the metadata registration unit stores the first hash and the report in association, The system includes a second hash generation step in which a second hash generation unit generates a second hash based on the simulation condition information, or based on the simulation condition information and the first hash, The report generation step, if the second hash is generated by the second hash generation unit based on the simulation condition information and the first hash, generates a report in which the second hash is embedded in place of the first hash; if the second hash is generated by the second hash generation unit based on the simulation condition information, generates a report in which the second hash is embedded in addition to the first hash. The storage step involves storing the first hash and the second hash in association with the report. A method for controlling a simulation device.

12. The input unit accepts input of definition information for the target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information. A first hash generation step in which a first hash generation unit generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target object, A simulation execution step in which the simulation is performed using the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information, A report generation step in which the report generation unit generates a report with the first hash embedded based on the results of the simulation, A storage step in which the metadata registration unit stores the first hash and the report in association, The system includes a key information generation step in which a key information generation unit generates key information based on at least the user's account information, The storage step also stores the key information in association with the report. A method for controlling a simulation device.

13. A program for a simulation device, wherein the program is controlled by a computer. An input step that accepts input of definition information for the target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information, A first hash generation step which generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target object, A simulation execution step in which the simulation is performed using the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information, A report generation step that generates a report with the first hash embedded based on the results of the simulation, A storage step of associating and storing the first hash and the report, A second hash generation step is performed, which generates a second hash based on the simulation condition information, or based on the simulation condition information and the first hash. As part of the report generation step, if the second hash is generated based on the simulation condition information and the first hash, a report is generated in which the second hash is embedded in place of the first hash; if the second hash is generated based on the simulation condition information, a report is generated in which the second hash is embedded in addition to the first hash. The storage step involves performing a step of associating and storing the first hash and the second hash with the report. Program for the simulation device.

14. A program for a simulation device, wherein the program is controlled by a computer, An input step that accepts input of definition information for the target object, which includes at least one of the structure and material of the object to be simulated, and simulation condition information, A first hash generation step which generates a first hash based on the definition information of the target object, A simulation execution step in which the simulation is performed using the definition information of the target object and the simulation condition information, A report generation step that generates a report with the first hash embedded based on the results of the simulation, A storage step of associating and storing the first hash and the report, The system performs a key information generation step that generates key information based on at least the user's account information, As part of the storage step, the key information is also stored in association with the report. Program for the simulation device.

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