Information processing device, computer program, information processing method, and estimation system

Abstract

An information processing device including a processor, wherein the processor displays a model Md of an object on a display device, and sets the geometric tolerance of a region of interest in an object as at least part of attribute information of the object on the basis of a user's instruction related to the displayed model Md. When a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is set with regard to the setting of the geometric tolerance, the processor selects either a first setting procedure for setting a datum in advance and thereafter setting a specific geometric tolerance and associating the datum with the specific geometric tolerance, or a second setting procedure for setting a specific geometric tolerance in advance and thereafter setting a datum and associating the datum with the specific geometric tolerance, and sets the geometric tolerance.

Description

Information processing device, computer program, information processing method, and quotation system

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device or the like that is capable of setting a geometric tolerance for an object.

[0002] Known information processing devices capable of adding attribute information such as the geometric tolerance of an object to a model of the object include those that first set a datum and then set the geometric tolerance in association with the set datum (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0003] JP 2006-221572 A JP 2005-352678 A

[0004] Geometric tolerances include those that require a datum and those that do not. For example, geometric tolerances such as parallelism, coaxiality, squareness, inclination, and circular runout—in other words, those classified as attitude tolerances, position tolerances, or runout tolerances—are classified as the former type of geometric tolerances because they require the specification of a reference surface or line corresponding to the target part, such as a surface, to which the geometric tolerance is to be set. On the other hand, geometric tolerances classified as form tolerances, such as flatness, straightness, roundness, and profile tolerances, are classified as the latter type of geometric tolerances because the target part itself can be measured to determine whether it satisfies the tolerance. Conventional information processing devices require the datum to be set beforehand when setting a geometric tolerance that requires a datum. Therefore, users must determine which type of geometric tolerance the target geometric tolerance is and use different setting procedures depending on whether a datum is required. If a geometric tolerance requires a datum, and the user attempts to set the geometric tolerance first, the user may be forced to start over from the datum setting. Some users prefer to first specify the target portion for which the geometric tolerance is to be set, the type of tolerance (e.g., coaxiality, parallelism), and the tolerance value, and then specify the datum, even if the geometric tolerance requires a datum. As such, conventional information processing devices have room for improvement in terms of ease of use when setting geometric tolerances that require a datum.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide an information processing device and the like that is easy to use in setting geometric tolerances.

[0006] An information processing device according to one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device including a processor, wherein the processor displays a model of an object on a display device, and sets a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least part of attribute information of the object based on a user's instruction regarding the model displayed on the display device, and when a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, the processor selects either one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, or a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum and the specific geometric tolerance, and sets the geometric tolerance.

[0007] A computer program according to one aspect of the present invention is configured to cause a processor of a computer to display a model of an object on a display device, and set a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least part of attribute information of the object based on a user's instruction regarding the model displayed on the display device; and, when a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set in setting the geometric tolerance, select either one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, or a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum and the specific geometric tolerance, thereby setting the geometric tolerance.

[0008] An information processing method according to one aspect of the present invention causes a computer processor to display a model of an object on a display device, and set a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least part of attribute information of the object based on a user's instruction regarding the model displayed on the display device. When a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, the computer selects either one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, or a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum and the specific geometric tolerance, and sets the geometric tolerance.

[0009] An estimation system according to one aspect of the present invention is an estimation system including a processor, wherein the processor acquires model data describing an object, displays a model of the object on a display device based on the model data, sets attribute information of the object based on a user instruction regarding the model displayed on the display device, generates an estimate required to provide the object based on the model data and the attribute information, and presents the estimate to the user, and when setting the attribute information, sets a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least part of the attribute information based on the user instruction, and when a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, selects either one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, or a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum and the specific geometric tolerance, and sets the geometric tolerance.

[0010] 1 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an order support system including an estimate system according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a control system of the server and the user terminal of FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing an example of a schematic procedure of processing executed by a server in relation to an estimate of a machined part. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen displayed when estimate conditions are set. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a main area displayed when the datum setting button is operated on the setting screen of FIG. 4. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a main area displayed subsequent to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a main area displayed when the geometric tolerance setting button is operated on the screen of FIG. 6. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a main area displayed subsequent to FIG. 7. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a main area displayed when an instruction to set a geometric tolerance requiring a datum is given on the screen of FIG. 8. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a main area displayed when a datum is selected on the screen of FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing another example of the main area displayed when the geometric tolerance setting button is operated on the setting screen of FIG. 4. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a main area displayed subsequent to FIG. 12. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a main area displayed when an instruction to set a geometric tolerance requiring a datum is given on the screen of FIG. 12. A diagram showing an example of the main area displayed when datum setting is instructed on the screen of Figure 14. A diagram showing an example of the main area displayed following Figure 15. A diagram showing an example of the main area displayed when a return to geometric tolerance setting is instructed on the screen of Figure 16. A diagram showing an example of the main area displayed when datum is selected on the screen of Figure 17. A diagram showing an example of the main area displayed when the update button is operated on the screen of Figure 18. A flowchart showing an example of the procedure for geometric tolerance setting processing executed by the estimate processing unit of the server. A flowchart following Figure 20.

[0011] An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of an ordering support system configured to allow a user to order a processed part as an example of an object. The ordering support system is a system for supporting a user in ordering a processed part, and includes an information processing device and an estimate system according to an embodiment of the present invention. The processed part handled by the ordering support system may be an article manufactured using various manufacturing methods, such as sheet metal processing and cutting, either alone or in combination as appropriate, as long as a geometric tolerance is set as at least part of the attribute information. The processed part may also be an article intended for an appropriate use. Furthermore, the object is not limited to a processed part, and may be any appropriate article as long as a geometric tolerance is required.

[0012] 1, the order support system 1 is configured as a client-server system including a server 2 and a user terminal 4 as a client communicatively connected to the server 2 via a network 3. The user terminal 4 may include various types of information communication devices that can be connected to a network, such as a desktop PC (short for personal computer) 4a, a notebook PC 4b, or an information communication terminal 4c such as a smartphone.

[0013] The server 2 provides the user terminal 4 with various services necessary for the user to order processed parts. As an example, the server 2 is configured as a web server that displays various web pages on the user terminal 4 in response to access from the user terminal 4. The server 2 may be linked via the network 3 to an order processing system, a manufacturing management system, etc. that handles various processes such as manufacturing the processed parts required in response to the user's order, arranging for delivery, etc., and billing for the purchase price. Alternatively, the order support system 1 itself may include functions such as order processing and billing.

[0014] 2 shows a schematic configuration of the control systems of the server 2 and the user terminal 4. The server 2 is provided with a control device 10 and an external storage device 11. The control device 10 is configured as a computer unit that combines a microprocessor with peripheral devices such as an internal storage device required for its operation. The external storage device 11 stores various types of information using non-volatile storage media such as magnetic storage media and flash memory. However, at least a portion of the external storage device 11 is not limited to being provided as part of the server 2, and may also be provided as a database server that cooperates with the server 2.

[0015] The external storage device 11 stores a computer program Pg for causing the control device 10 to execute various processes required for ordering machined parts. When the control device 10 reads and executes the computer program Pg, the control device 10 is provided with a model data acquisition unit 12, an estimate processing unit 13, and an order processing unit 14 as logical devices realized by a combination of computer hardware and software.

[0016] The model data acquisition unit 12 executes a process of acquiring model data Dm describing a machined part. For example, the model data acquisition unit 12 acquires the model data Dm from the user terminal 4 and stores it in the external storage device 11 as necessary. Alternatively, the model data acquisition unit 12 acquires the model data Dm by reading the model data Dm from the external storage device 11. The model data Dm may be stored in the external storage device 11 in association with model identification information that is unique for each piece of model data, and the model data Dm may be acquired from the external storage device 11 by specifying the model identification information. Note that the model data Dm may be a 3D model or a 2D model.

[0017] The estimate processing unit 13 generates an estimate necessary to provide a user with a machined part corresponding to the model data Dm and executes processing to present the estimate to the user. The estimate processing unit 13 executes various processes necessary to generate an estimate for the machined part and present it to the user. For example, the estimate processing unit 13 sets estimate conditions for the machined part based on a user instruction, generates estimate condition data Dc describing the estimate conditions, and stores the estimate condition data Dc in the external storage device 11 in association with the model data Dm as necessary. The setting of estimate conditions will be described later. The estimate processing unit 13 also generates estimate data De recording the generated estimate content and stores it in the external storage device 11 as necessary. The estimate condition data Dc and the estimate data De may also be managed in association with appropriate identification information. Furthermore, the model data Dm, estimate condition data Dc, and estimate data De may be managed in association with each other, or may be managed by being stored in the same data.

[0018] The order processing unit 14 executes processing corresponding to an order for processed parts from a user. For example, the order processing unit 14 provides various information required for manufacturing and delivering the processed parts ordered by the user to a partner system such as an order processing system or a manufacturing management system. Alternatively, the order processing unit 14 may process arrangements for manufacturing and delivering the ordered processed parts.

[0019] Next, referring to FIG. 3 , an example of the outline procedure of the process executed by the server 2 in relation to the quotation of a machined part will be described. When a user requests a quotation for a machined part via the user terminal 4, the model data acquisition unit 12 of the control device 10 first requests the upload of model data Dm. In response to the request, the user operates the user terminal 4 to upload model data Dm for the machined part to be quoted, and the model data acquisition unit 12 acquires the model data Dm (step S1). When an estimate is generated using model data Dm that has already been uploaded, the user may be prompted to specify the model data Dm, and the specified model data Dm may be acquired from the external storage device 11. Note that, upon uploading the model data Dm, the model data Dm may be analyzed to determine whether the machined part corresponding to the model data Dm can be machined. By acquiring the model data Dm, the model data acquisition unit 12 functions as an example of an acquisition unit that acquires model data describing an object.

[0020] Once the model data Dm is acquired, the estimate processing unit 13 sets estimate conditions for the machined parts corresponding to the model data Dm based on user instructions (step S2). The set estimate conditions are recorded in estimate condition data Dc and, as necessary, stored in the external storage device 11. The process of setting estimate conditions may selectively perform processes for setting various items required to generate an estimate based on user instructions, such as setting the quantity of machined parts (step S2-1), setting the material and surface treatment (step S2-2), setting dimensional tolerances (step S2-3), and setting geometric tolerances (step S2-4). Items included in the estimate conditions, such as material, surface treatment, dimensional tolerances, and geometric tolerances, are examples of attribute information set as manufacturing conditions for the machined parts desired by the user. Specific examples of the process of setting geometric tolerances will be described later.

[0021] Once the quotation conditions have been set, the quotation processing unit 13 generates a quotation for the processed parts based on the model data Dm and the quotation conditions data Dc, and presents the generated quotation to the user via the display device 22 of the user terminal 4 (step S3). If the user wishes to change the quotation, the process returns to setting the quotation conditions. When the user approves the quotation and instructs to order the processed parts, the order processing unit 14 executes the processing required to order the processed parts (step S4). The quotation processing unit 13 functions as an example of a setting means by setting attribute information of the object as at least part of the quotation conditions, and functions as an example of a quotation presenting means by generating a quotation for the processed parts, which are an example of an object, based on the acquired model data and the set attribute information, and presenting the quotation to the user.

[0022] Next, an example of the procedure when the estimation processing unit 13 sets a geometric tolerance will be described with reference to the user interface screens shown in Figures 4 to 19. Note that all of the screens in Figures 4 to 19 are screens that are displayed on the display device 22 of the user terminal 4 based on information from the server 2.

[0023] FIG. 4 shows an example of a setting screen displayed when quotation conditions are set. The setting screen 100 in FIG. 4 includes a main area 101 displaying a model Md of the machined part to be estimated, an information display area 102 displaying the machining method, material, etc. set for the machined part, and a tree view area 103 displaying items that can be set as quotation conditions in a tree format. The main area 101 displays a model Md that reproduces the machined part based on model data Dm of the machined part for which quotation conditions are to be set. Datums and geometric tolerances are set for the machined part, but in this embodiment, surfaces or lines for which datums and geometric tolerances are to be set are specified via the model Md. For ease of explanation, the following description may be given assuming that surfaces, etc. for which datums and geometric tolerances are to be set are specified for the model Md. The quotation processing unit 13 of the server 2 displays the model Md on the display device 22 of the user terminal 4, thereby functioning as an example of a display control means for displaying a model of the object. Hereinafter, the state in which the setting screen 100 in FIG. 4 is displayed may be referred to as the initial state for setting quotation conditions.

[0024] A function selection section 104 is displayed at the top of the main area 101. Although the function selection section 104 is surrounded by a dashed line in FIG. 4 , the dashed line is not displayed on the actual setting screen 100. The function selection section 104 displays a plurality of function selection buttons corresponding to various functions that can be called from the setting screen 100, arranged, for example, horizontally. The functions that can be called from the function selection section 104 may be set as appropriate. In this embodiment, however, the function selection section 104 includes a datum setting button 105 and a geometric tolerance setting button 106 as examples of setting instruction elements for instructing the geometric tolerance setting process (processing corresponding to step S2-4 in FIG. 3 ). When a predetermined operation, such as a click operation, is performed on the datum setting button 105, the process proceeds to datum setting. When a predetermined operation, such as a click operation, is performed on the geometric tolerance setting button 106, the process proceeds to geometric tolerance setting.

[0025] A datum is a theoretically accurate geometric reference set to specify the geometric tolerance of a machined part. As described above, there are two types of geometric tolerances: those that require a datum and those that do not. Hereinafter, the type of geometric tolerance that requires a datum will be referred to as a first type of geometric tolerance, and the type of geometric tolerance that does not require a datum will be referred to as a second type of geometric tolerance, and these will be distinguished from each other. The first type of geometric tolerance corresponds to the specific geometric tolerance in this invention.

[0026] Regardless of whether the geometric tolerance is type 1 or type 2, when setting a geometric tolerance, it is necessary to set the target portion for which the geometric tolerance is to be set, the type of geometric tolerance, and the tolerance value. Setting these items is sufficient when setting a type 2 geometric tolerance. On the other hand, when setting a type 1 geometric tolerance, it is necessary to specify a datum in addition to setting the target portion, type, and tolerance value. In this embodiment, when setting a type 1 geometric tolerance, either a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the geometric tolerance is set, or a second setting procedure in which the geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set, can be selected. Examples of these setting procedures are described below with reference to the screen examples shown in FIGS. 5 to 19. Note that all of the screen examples shown in FIGS. 5 to 19 are enlarged views of the main area 101 on the setting screen 100.

[0027] First, an example of setting a first type of geometric tolerance according to the first setting procedure will be described. Figure 5 shows an example of the main area 101 that is displayed when the datum setting button 105 is operated on the setting screen 100. When the datum setting button 105 is operated, the geometric tolerance is set according to the first setting procedure. In the example shown in Figure 5, a message box 110 is displayed that instructs the user to click on the surface on which the datum is to be set. Note that, in response to the operation of the datum setting button 105, the datum setting button 105 is highlighted in the function selection section 104, and the other setting buttons are grayed out.

[0028] In the main area 101 of Fig. 5, the user can specify a surface on the model Md for which a datum should be set, for example by clicking. When the surface to be set as the target for datum setting is specified, the display in the main area 101 changes to the state shown in Fig. 6. In the example of Fig. 6, the end face Md1 of the model Md is selected as the datum, and the end face Md1 is highlighted so that it can be distinguished from other parts. Although the end face Md1 is shown in white in Fig. 6, the end face Md1 may also be displayed in a chromatic color different from the other parts.

[0029] As shown in FIG. 6 , when setting a datum, a dialog box 120 for selecting a datum symbol is displayed in the main area 101. The dialog box 120 includes a message 121 prompting the user to select a datum symbol, a selection section 122, an update button 123, a geometric tolerance setting button 124, and a cancel button 125. The selection section 122 displays alphabetical characters A, B, etc., as potential datum symbols in a pull-down menu, allowing the user to select one of them. FIG. 6 shows an example in which the datum symbol "A" is selected for the end face Md1. When the update button 123 is operated, the current datum settings, i.e., the surface, line, etc., to be used as the datum, and the datum symbol, are saved as part of the quotation condition data Dc, for example. When the cancel button 125 is operated, the current datum settings are discarded, and the process returns to the initial state shown on the setting screen 100 in FIG. 4 .

[0030] When the geometric tolerance setting button 124 in the dialog box 120 in Figure 5 is operated, the process proceeds to setting the geometric tolerance. An example of the main area 101 in this case is shown in Figure 7. In the example of Figure 7, a message box 130 is displayed instructing the user to click on a surface as a target portion for setting the geometric tolerance. Note that in the example of Figure 7, the geometric tolerance setting button 106 in the function selection section 104 is highlighted, and the other setting buttons are grayed out, indicating that the stage is now in which the geometric tolerance is to be set. In addition, a datum index IdA is added to the model Md, indicating that a datum identified by the datum symbol "A" is set on the end face Md1.

[0031] In the main area 101 of Fig. 7, the user can specify, by clicking, for example, a surface on the model Md as a target portion for which a geometric tolerance is to be set. When any surface is specified, the display in the main area 101 changes to the state shown in Fig. 8. In the example of Fig. 8, the shaft outer peripheral surface Md2 of the model Md is specified as a target portion for which a geometric tolerance is to be set, and the outer peripheral surface Md2 is highlighted so as to be distinguishable from other portions. Although the outer peripheral surface Md2 is shown in white in Fig. 8, the outer peripheral surface Md2 may also be displayed in a chromatic color different from the other portions.

[0032] 8, in the stage of setting a geometric tolerance, a dialog box 140 for setting a geometric tolerance is displayed in the main area 101. The dialog box 140 includes a geometric tolerance setting section 141, an update button 142, a datum setting button 143, a setting target change button 144, and a cancel button 145. The geometric tolerance setting section 141 is an operation section for setting a geometric tolerance for the surface set as the target portion in the stage of FIG.

[0033] The geometric tolerance setting section 141 includes a tolerance symbol selection section 141a, a tolerance value setting section 141b, datum selection sections 141c and 141d, an add tolerance symbol button 141e, and a delete button 141f. The tolerance symbol selection section 141a displays tolerance symbols unique to each type of geometric tolerance in a pull-down menu. The type of geometric tolerance to be set is specified by selecting one of the tolerance symbols in the tolerance symbol selection section 141a. The tolerance value setting section 141b allows the user to specify a tolerance value for the type of geometric tolerance selected in the tolerance symbol selection section 141a. The datum selection sections 141c and 141d allow the user to select a set datum as the datum for the type of geometric tolerance selected in the tolerance symbol selection section 141a. By providing two datum selection sections 141c and 141d, it is possible to select two datums for one target portion. When the tolerance symbol addition button 141e is operated, a tolerance symbol selection section 141a, a tolerance value setting section 141b, and datum selection sections 141c and 141d are newly added to the geometric tolerance setting section 141. This makes it possible to add and set other geometric tolerances for the same target portion of the model Md. When the delete button 141f is operated, the settings of the tolerance symbol selection section 141a, the tolerance value setting section 141b, and the datum selection sections 141c and 141d arranged to the left of it are deleted.

[0034] When the Update button 142 is operated, the current geometric tolerance settings are saved, for example, as part of the quotation condition data Dc. The Datum Setting button 143 is an operation unit operated to set a new datum. The Datum Setting button 143 is operated when setting a first type geometric tolerance according to the second setting procedure and is displayed on the display device 22 as an example of an additional setting element. When setting a first type geometric tolerance according to the first setting procedure, it is sufficient to select an already set datum in the datum selection units 141c and 141d and associate it with the geometric tolerance set in the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a and the tolerance value setting unit 141b; there is no need to operate the Datum Setting button 143. The Setting Target Change button 144 is an operation unit operated to newly specify a target part for which a geometric tolerance is to be set. The Setting Target Change button 144 is labeled, for example, "Set Next Surface," to indicate that the operation will proceed to setting the geometric tolerance for the next target part. When the Change Setting Target button 144 is operated, the process transitions to the state shown in the example screen of Figure 7, where a new target part for which a geometric tolerance is to be set can be specified. When the Cancel button 145 is operated, the current geometric tolerance setting content is discarded, and the process returns to the initial state shown in the setting screen 100 of Figure 4. Note that in Figure 8, the geometric tolerance is in the middle of being set. Therefore, the Update button 142 and the Change Setting Target button 144 are inoperable. In this case, the Update button 142 and the Change Setting Target button 144 are grayed out to indicate that they are inoperable.

[0035] When a first-class geometric tolerance is selected from the pull-down menu of the tolerance symbol selection section 141a in the geometric tolerance setting section 141 of FIG. 8 , the display content of the dialog box 140 changes to a dialog box 140A of FIG. 9 . In the example of FIG. 9 , a tolerance symbol corresponding to squareness is selected in the tolerance symbol selection section 141a. Squareness is a first-class geometric tolerance that requires a datum. In the dialog box 140A, since the geometric tolerance selected in the tolerance symbol selection section 141a is a first-class geometric tolerance, a message 146 is added as information indicating that the geometric tolerance requires a datum and guiding the user through the necessary operations for specifying the datum. For example, the message 146 reads, "This geometric tolerance requires a datum. Please select a datum symbol or set it using the datum setting button." However, the message 146 may be modified as appropriate as long as it at least informs the user that the geometric tolerance requires a datum.

[0036] When a geometric tolerance is set according to the first setting procedure, a datum symbol corresponding to one of the set datums is selected in the datum selection fields 141c and 141d. For example, if datum symbol "A" is selected in the datum selection field 141c from the state shown in FIG. 9, the dialog box 140A in FIG. 9 changes to dialog box 140B in FIG. 10. The dialog box 140B shows that datum symbol "A" has been selected in the datum selection field 141c. This associates the datum with the tolerance symbol and tolerance value set in the tolerance symbol selection field 141a and tolerance value setting field 141b. Once the datum symbol is selected, all information necessary for setting a first type geometric tolerance is specified. Therefore, in the state shown in FIG. 10, the Update button 142 and the Change Setting Target button 144 are operable, and the grayed-out display of these buttons 142 and 144 is canceled.

[0037] When the update button 142 is operated in the dialog box 140B of Fig. 10, the display in the main area 101 transitions to the state shown in Fig. 11. In the example of Fig. 11, the setting of the first type of geometric tolerance has been completed, so the dialog box is not displayed. In the model Md, the end face Md1 set as the datum and the outer peripheral surface Md2 for which the geometric tolerance has been set are each highlighted. Furthermore, a datum index IdA indicating the datum symbol "A" is displayed in association with the end face Md1, and a geometric tolerance index ItA indicating the set content of the perpendicularity is displayed in association with the outer peripheral surface Md2.

[0038] Next, an example of setting a first type geometric tolerance according to the second setting procedure will be described. Setting a geometric tolerance according to the second setting procedure is initiated by operating the geometric tolerance setting button 106 on the setting screen 100 of FIG. 4. In this case, the main area of ​​the setting screen 100 first changes to the state shown in FIG. 12, and the user is prompted to specify the target portion for which the geometric tolerance is to be set. The screen example of FIG. 12 is substantially the same as the screen example of FIG. 7. However, FIG. 12 shows an example in which a geometric tolerance for perpendicularity has been set on the outer peripheral surface Md2 according to the procedures shown in FIGS. 5 to 11, and other geometric tolerances are additionally set. When setting a first type geometric tolerance according to the second setting procedure, it is irrelevant whether or not a datum and a geometric tolerance have been set according to the first setting procedure, and it is not necessary for at least one datum to be set.

[0039] When a surface for which a geometric tolerance is to be set is designated from the state shown in FIG. 12 , the display in the main region 101 transitions to the state shown in FIG. 13 . In the example shown in FIG. 13 , the inner peripheral surface Md3 of the shaft portion of the model Md is designated as the target portion for which a geometric tolerance is to be set, and the inner peripheral surface Md3 is highlighted so as to be distinguishable from other portions. While the inner peripheral surface Md3 is shown in white in FIG. 13 , the inner peripheral surface Md3 may be displayed in a chromatic color different from the other portions. Also, in FIG. 13 , the model Md is shown in a cross-sectional view along the axial direction in response to the designation of the inner peripheral surface Md3. However, changing the display mode of the model Md is not necessarily required.

[0040] At the stage shown in Figure 13, the same dialog box 140 as in Figure 8 is displayed in the main area 101. When a tolerance value is set in the tolerance value setting section 141b of the geometric tolerance setting section 141 of the dialog box 140 and a first type geometric tolerance is selected from the pull-down menu of the tolerance symbol selection section 141a, the displayed content of the dialog box 140 changes to a dialog box 140A shown in Figure 14. The dialog box 140A in Figure 14 is the same as that in Figure 9. In the example shown in Figure 14, a tolerance symbol corresponding to coaxiality is set. Coaxiality is a first type geometric tolerance that requires a datum.

[0041] At the stage shown in Figure 14, the coaxiality of the inner peripheral surface Md3 has been set, but the datum corresponding to the geometric tolerance has not yet been set. Therefore, it is not possible to select a datum from the datum selection sections 141c and 141d of the dialog box 140A. If the datum setting button 143 is operated in this situation, the display in the main area 101 transitions to the state shown in Figure 15. In the example shown in Figure 15, a message box 110 is displayed, similar to Figure 5, instructing the user to click on the surface on which the datum should be set. In response to the progression to the datum setting stage, the datum setting button 105 is highlighted in the function selection section 104, and the other setting buttons are grayed out. The model Md is displayed as a partially cutaway perspective view of the inner peripheral surface Md3 in cross section.

[0042] In the main area 101 of Fig. 15, the user can specify a surface on the model Md on which a datum should be set, for example, by clicking. When, for example, the outer peripheral surface Md2 of the model Md is specified as a datum in the main area of ​​Fig. 15, the display in the main area 101 changes to the state shown in Fig. 16. In the example of Fig. 16, the outer peripheral surface Md2 of the model Md is selected as the datum, and the outer peripheral surface Md2 is highlighted so as to be distinguishable from other parts. Although the outer peripheral surface Md2 is shown in white in Fig. 16, the outer peripheral surface Md2 may also be displayed in a chromatic color different from the other parts.

[0043] In the stage shown in FIG. 16 , a dialog box 150 for selecting a datum symbol is displayed in the main area 101. The dialog box 150 includes a message 151 prompting the user to select a datum symbol, a selection section 152, a transition button 153, and a cancel button 154. The selection section 152 displays the letters A, B, etc. as potential datum symbols in a pull-down menu, allowing the user to select one of them. However, a datum symbol corresponding to a datum that has already been set cannot be selected. FIG. 16 shows an example in which the datum symbol "B" has been selected for the outer peripheral surface Md2. When the transition button 153 is pressed, the datum setting is completed, and the process returns to the setting of the geometric tolerance. When the cancel button 154 is pressed, the current datum setting is discarded, and the process returns to the state shown in FIG. 14 , for example.

[0044] When the transition button 153 in FIG. 16 is operated, the display in the main area 101 transitions to the state shown in FIG. 17 . At this stage, a dialog box 140A similar to that shown in FIG. 14 is displayed. For the model Md, a datum indicator IdB is additionally displayed in response to the setting of the datum symbol "B" for the model Md. At the stage shown in FIG. 17 , the outer peripheral surface Md2 has already been set as the datum for the concentricity of the inner peripheral surface Md3. Therefore, the datum symbol "B" can be selected in the datum selection section 141c. Once the datum symbol is selected, the dialog box 140A in FIG. 17 changes to a dialog box 140B in FIG. 18 . The dialog box 140B in FIG. 18 indicates that the datum symbol "B" has been selected in the datum selection section 141c. This associates the datum with the tolerance symbol and tolerance value set in the tolerance symbol selection section 141a and tolerance value setting section 141b. Once the datum symbol is selected, all information necessary for setting the first type of geometric tolerance is specified. Therefore, at the stage of FIG. 18, the update button 142 and the setting target change button 144 are operable, and the grayed-out display of these buttons 142 and 144 is released.

[0045] When the update button 142 is operated in the dialog box 140B of Fig. 18, the display in the main area 101 transitions to the state of Fig. 19. In the example of Fig. 19, the setting of the first type of geometric tolerance has been completed, so the dialog box is not displayed. For the model Md, a datum index IdB of datum symbol "B" is displayed in association with the outer peripheral surface Md2, and a geometric tolerance index ItB indicating the setting content of the coaxiality is displayed in association with the inner diameter dimension of the inner peripheral surface Md3.

[0046] Next, an example of a procedure in which the estimate processing unit 13 sets a geometric tolerance via the user interface screens of Figures 4 to 19 will be described with reference to Figures 20 and 21. Figures 20 and 21 show an example of a procedure for a geometric tolerance setting process executed by the estimate processing unit 13 of the server 2 when a command to set a geometric tolerance (step S2-4) is issued during the estimation condition setting stage (step S2) of Figure 3. Note that the process when the cancel buttons 125, 145, and 154 are operated is as described above, and is not shown in Figures 20 and 21. By executing the processes of Figures 20 and 21, the server 2 functions as an example of an information processing device according to the present invention.

[0047] In the control device 10 of the server 2, the estimate processing unit 13 starts the process of Figure 20 when the user operates either the datum setting button 105 or the geometric tolerance setting button 106 on the setting screen 100 of Figure 5. In the geometric tolerance setting process, the estimate processing unit 13 first determines whether the datum setting button 105 has been operated to instruct datum setting (step S101). If datum setting has been instructed, the estimate processing unit 13 displays the screen of Figure 5 and selects the surface on which the datum should be set based on the user's instruction (step S102). Next, the estimate processing unit 13 displays the screen of Figure 6 and selects a datum symbol based on the user's instruction (step S103).

[0048] When the datum symbol is selected, the estimate processing unit 13 determines whether the Update button 123 shown in FIG. 6 has been operated (step S104). If the Update button 123 has been operated, the estimate processing unit 13 saves the settings made in steps S102 and S103 in the estimate condition data Dc (step S105). The estimate processing unit 13 then displays the setting screen 100 shown in FIG. 4 and determines whether the Geometric Tolerance Setting button 106 has been operated to instruct setting of a geometric tolerance (step S106). If the Geometric Tolerance Setting button 106 has been operated, the estimate processing unit 13 displays the message box 130 shown in FIGS. 7 and 12 to prompt the user to specify the surface of the target portion for which the geometric tolerance is to be set, and selects the surface of the target portion in accordance with the user's instruction (step S107). Next, the estimate processing unit 13 displays the dialog box 140 shown in FIGS. 8 and 13 to prompt the user to specify the tolerance symbol and tolerance value, and sets the tolerance symbol and tolerance value according to the specification (step S108). If the result of step S101 is negative, it is determined that the geometric tolerance setting button 106 has been operated to instruct setting of a geometric tolerance, and the process proceeds to step S107.

[0049] Once the tolerance symbol and tolerance value have been set, the quotation processing unit 13 temporarily stores these settings in an internal storage device (step S109). Next, the quotation processing unit 13 determines, based on the specified tolerance symbol, whether a geometric tolerance requiring a datum has been set in step S108 (step S110). If it is determined that the geometric tolerance does not require a datum, the quotation processing unit 13 proceeds to step S115 in FIG. 21. On the other hand, if it is determined that a datum is required in step S110, the quotation processing unit 13 presents a confirmation message 146 to the user by displaying the dialog box 140A shown in FIGS. 9 and 14 (step S111). This notifies the user that the geometric tolerance requires datum setting and that they should select a datum or set a new one.

[0050] After processing step S111, the estimation processing unit 13 proceeds to processing step S112 in FIG. 21. In step S112 in FIG. 21, the estimation processing unit 13 determines whether datum setting is instructed by operating the datum setting button 143 in the dialog box 140A. If datum setting is instructed, the estimation processing unit 13 proceeds to datum setting (step S120). This processing transitions from the state in which the screen in FIG. 14 is displayed to the state in which the screen in FIG. 15 is displayed. When the transition to datum setting is made, the estimation processing unit 13 selects a surface for which a datum should be set based on a user instruction (step S121). Next, the estimation processing unit 13 displays the screen in FIG. 16 and selects a datum symbol based on a user instruction (step S122).

[0051] Once the datum symbol is selected, the estimation processing unit 13 determines whether the transition button 153 in FIG. 16 has been operated to instruct a return to the geometric tolerance setting (step S123). The estimation processing unit 13 waits until a return instruction is given, and if a return instruction is given, it saves the settings made in steps S121 to S123 in the estimation condition data Dc (step S124). The estimation processing unit 13 then displays the screen in FIG. 17 to return to the geometric tolerance setting process (step S125). After processing step S125, the estimation processing unit 13 returns to processing step S112. This makes it possible to select the datum saved in the processing steps S121 to S124 from the datum selection units 141c and 141d.

[0052] If no datum setting is instructed in step S112, the estimate processing unit 13 determines whether a datum selection operation has been performed in the datum selection units 141c and 141d (step S113). If a datum selection operation has been performed, the estimate processing unit 13 selects a datum in accordance with the operation (step S114). This associates the datum with the tolerance symbol and tolerance value set in the tolerance symbol selection unit 141a and tolerance value setting unit 141b. Through the above process, all information necessary for setting geometric tolerances has been specified. Therefore, the dialog box 140A displayed at that time changes to the dialog box 140B shown in FIGS. 10 and 18, and the Update button 142 and Change Setting Target button 144 become operable.

[0053] Next, the estimate processing unit 13 determines whether the Update button 142 has been operated to instruct updating (saving) the current geometric tolerance settings (step S115). If an update is instructed, the estimate processing unit 13 updates the estimate condition data Dc so that the current settings are saved (step S116). The estimate processing unit 13 then determines whether the Add button 141e has been operated (step S117). If not, the estimate processing unit 13 further determines whether the Change Setting Target button 144 has been operated (step S118). If it is determined in step S117 that the Add button 141e has been operated, the estimate processing unit 13 proceeds to step S108 in FIG. 20. This makes it possible to add and set another geometric tolerance for the target portion selected in step S107. If it is determined in step S118 that the Change Setting Target button 144 has been operated, the estimate processing unit 13 proceeds to step S107 in FIG. 20. This makes it possible to newly specify the surface that is the target portion of the geometric tolerance and set the geometric tolerance. If it is determined in step S118 of Fig. 21 that the setting target change button 144 has not been operated, the estimate processing unit 13 ends the current geometric tolerance setting process.

[0054] According to the above processing, if the processing of steps S102 to S105 is executed in response to the user's operation of the datum setting button 105 to set a datum, and then the processing of steps S107 to S116 is executed in sequence in response to the user's operation of the geometric tolerance setting button 106 to set a geometric tolerance, the first type of geometric tolerance is set in accordance with the first setting procedure. On the other hand, if the processing of steps S107 to S112 is executed in sequence in response to the user's operation of the geometric tolerance setting button 106, and then the processing of steps S112 to S120 to S125 is executed in sequence in response to the user's operation of the datum setting button 143, and then the processing of steps S112 to S116 is executed in sequence, the first type of geometric tolerance is set in accordance with the second setting procedure. Furthermore, in response to the user's operation of the geometric tolerance setting button 106, the processing of steps S107 to S110 is executed sequentially, and when the processing jumps from step S110 to step S115, the second type of geometric tolerance is set without the need to set or select a datum.

[0055] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment and may be embodied in various modified or altered forms. For example, in the process shown in FIGS. 20 and 21 , step S110 determines whether a first-type geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set. If the first-type geometric tolerance is to be set and the user operates the datum setting button 143, the process proceeds from step S112 to step S120 and thereafter to set the datum, thereby selecting the second setting procedure. However, the selection of which setting procedure to use to set the first-type geometric tolerance can be modified as appropriate. For example, when a user instructs setting a geometric tolerance, the user may first specify the type of geometric tolerance to be set. If a geometric tolerance requiring a datum is specified, the user may then specify whether the datum or the geometric tolerance should be set first, and either the first setting procedure or the second setting procedure may be selected based on the specification. Alternatively, the user may be allowed to specify which of the first setting procedure or the second setting procedure is to be prioritized as a default setting, and when a request is made to set a first type of geometric tolerance, the geometric tolerance may be set according to the default set procedure.

[0056] In the above embodiment, the datum setting button 105 and the geometric tolerance setting button 106 are displayed in parallel in the function selection section 104 of the setting screen 100 as an example of a setting instruction element operated to instruct the setting of either a datum or a geometric tolerance. However, the display manner of the setting instruction element is not limited to this example. The display manner of the setting instruction element may be changed appropriately depending on how the first setting procedure or the second setting procedure is selected. For example, only the geometric tolerance setting button 106 may be displayed, and when this button is operated, a selection element may be displayed that prompts the user to instruct whether to set the datum first. If "datum first" is specified, the first setting procedure may be selected, and if "geometric tolerance first" is specified, the second setting procedure may be selected. Instead of displaying a display element that integrates multiple selection items, such as the dialog boxes 140, 140A, and 140B, the user interface may be configured to display various items required for setting geometric tolerances one by one in order, allowing the user to proceed with the setting in an interactive manner.

[0057] In the above embodiment, the server 2 functions as an example of an information processing device, and the order support system 1 functions as an example of an estimate system. However, the information processing device of the present invention is not limited to being configured as the server 2. A single computer or a logical computer configured by a set of multiple computers may function as the information processing device. For example, a computer program according to the present invention may be implemented in a user terminal 4, and the computer processor of the user terminal 4 may execute the computer program, thereby causing the user terminal 4 to function as the information processing device instead of the server 2. By assigning some of the functions of the server 2 to the user terminal 4, it is possible to logically configure an information processing device through cooperation between the server 2 and the user terminal 4. Furthermore, by appropriately assigning the functions of the server 2 to multiple computers connected via a network, the combination of these multiple computers may function as a logical information processing device. In other words, the computer program according to the present invention is not limited to being provided for a server, but may also be provided for a user terminal, or may be provided in a form in which a computer program for a server and a computer program for a user terminal are combined, or in a form in which multiple computers function to share and execute processing.

[0058] The quotation system according to the present invention is not limited to being configured as at least a part of an order support system. As long as attribute information including geometric tolerances of an object can be set and an estimate can be generated and presented to a user based on model data and attribute information, the quotation system may be configured as a system that may or may not include other functions such as an order processing function. The information processing device according to the present invention is not limited to being configured as part of a quotation system, and can be applied to various systems that require a function for setting geometric tolerances as at least a part of attribute information of an object. For example, the information processing device according to the present invention may be applied to designing an object or supporting the design of the object.

[0059] Various aspects of the present invention derived from the above-described embodiments and modifications will be described below. In the following description, corresponding components shown in the accompanying drawings will be written in parentheses to facilitate understanding of each aspect of the present invention, but the present invention is not limited to the illustrated forms.

[0060] An information processing device (2) according to one aspect of the present invention is an information processing device including a processor, wherein the processor displays a model (Md) of an object on a display device (22), and sets a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least part of attribute information of the object based on a user's instruction regarding the model displayed on the display device, and when a specific geometric tolerance that requires a datum is to be set regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, the processor selects either one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, or a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum and the specific geometric tolerance, and sets the geometric tolerance.

[0061] A computer program (Pg) according to one aspect of the present invention is configured to cause a processor of a computer (10) to display a model (Md) of an object on a display device (22), and set a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least part of attribute information of the object based on a user's instruction regarding the model displayed on the display device, and when a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, select either one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, or a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum and the specific geometric tolerance, and then the setting of the geometric tolerance is configured to set the geometric tolerance.

[0062] An information processing method according to one aspect of the present invention causes a processor of a computer (10) to display a model (Md) of an object on a display device (22), and set a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least part of attribute information of the object based on a user's instruction regarding the model displayed on the display device. When a specific geometric tolerance that requires a datum is to be set regarding the setting of the geometric tolerance, the processor selects either one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, or a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum and the specific geometric tolerance, and sets the geometric tolerance.

[0063] An estimation system according to one aspect of the present invention is an estimation system (1) including a processor, in which the processor acquires model data (Dm) describing an object, displays a model (Md) of the object on a display device (22) based on the model data, sets attribute information of the object based on a user instruction regarding the model displayed on the display device, generates an estimate required to provide the object based on the model data and the attribute information, and presents the estimate to the user, and when setting the attribute information, sets a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least part of the attribute information based on the user instruction, and when setting the geometric tolerance, if a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set, selects either one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, or a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum.

[0064] According to the above aspect, when setting a specific geometric tolerance that requires a datum, if the first setting procedure is followed, the datum can be set first, and then the specific geometric tolerance can be set. If the second setting procedure is followed, the specific geometric tolerance can be set first, and then the datum can be set, and the datum and the specific geometric tolerance can be associated. This improves usability when setting a specific geometric tolerance. For example, if setting a specific geometric tolerance is started in a state where a datum has not yet been set, the datum can also be set according to the second setting procedure, eliminating the need to discard the setting of the geometric tolerance and start over from the datum setting. Furthermore, since the datum and the specific geometric tolerance can be set using either the first setting procedure or the second setting procedure, the user can use the appropriate setting procedure according to their needs.

[0065] The computer program according to one aspect of the present invention may be provided in a state stored in a storage medium. By using this storage medium, for example, the computer program according to the present invention can be installed on a computer and executed, thereby realizing the system of the present invention using the computer. The storage medium storing the computer program may be a non-transitory storage medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0066] In the above-described embodiment, the following items can be further added. The following various items may be applied in appropriate combinations as long as they are not mutually contradictory.

[0067] The processor may cause the display device to display setting instruction elements (105, 106) that are operated to instruct the setting of either the datum or the geometric tolerance, and when the setting instruction element is operated to set the datum in advance with respect to the setting of the specific geometric tolerance, set the specific geometric tolerance according to the first setting procedure, and when the setting instruction element is operated to set the specific geometric tolerance in advance with respect to the setting of the specific geometric tolerance, set the specific geometric tolerance according to the second setting procedure. This makes it possible to set the specific geometric tolerance and the corresponding datum by selecting the first setting procedure or the second setting procedure in accordance with a user's operation of the setting instruction element.

[0068] When the specific geometric tolerance is set in the second setting procedure, the processor may cause the display device to display an additional indicator element (143) that is operated to set the datum after setting the specific geometric tolerance, and may proceed with the setting procedure to set the datum in response to the operation of the additional indicator element. This allows the user to be guided to operate the additional indicator element to set the datum after the specific geometric tolerance has been set in advance by operating the setting indicator element to set the specific geometric tolerance. Therefore, it is possible to smoothly proceed with setting the specific geometric tolerance using the second setting procedure.

[0069] When the specific geometric tolerance is set in the second setting procedure, the processor may notify the user of information (146) indicating that the datum is required, in association with the setting of the specific geometric tolerance. This makes it possible to reliably make the user aware that a datum setting is required when setting the specific geometric tolerance according to the second setting procedure.

[0070] When the setting instruction element is operated to set the geometric tolerance, and the geometric tolerance to be set is a geometric tolerance that does not require the datum, unlike the specific geometric tolerance, the processor may set the geometric tolerance based on the instruction of the user. This makes it possible to differentiate the procedure for setting the geometric tolerance depending on whether the geometric tolerance to be set requires a datum when the setting instruction element is operated to set the geometric tolerance.

[0071] This application claims priority from Japanese Patent Application No. 2023-203714, filed December 1, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0072] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 1 Ordering support system 2 Server 4 User terminal 10 Control device 13 Estimation processing unit 22 Display device 100 Setting screen 104 Function selection unit 105 Datum setting button 106 Geometric tolerance setting button 124 Geometric tolerance setting button 141 Geometric tolerance setting unit 141a Tolerance symbol selection unit 141b Tolerance value setting unit 141c, 141c Datum selection unit 142 Update button 143 Datum setting button 146 Confirmation message

Claims

1. An information processing device including a processor, wherein the processor displays a model of an object on a display device, and sets a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least part of the attribute information of the object based on a user's instructions regarding the model displayed on the display device, and when a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set in setting the geometric tolerance, selects one of two setting procedures to set the geometric tolerance: a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first, and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, and a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first, and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum, and then the specific geometric tolerance.

2. The information processing device described in claim 1, wherein the processor displays on the display device a setting instruction element that is operated to instruct the setting of either the datum or the geometric tolerance, and when the setting instruction element is operated to set the datum in advance for the setting of the specific geometric tolerance, sets the specific geometric tolerance according to the first setting procedure, and when the setting instruction element is operated to set the specific geometric tolerance in advance for the setting of the specific geometric tolerance, sets the specific geometric tolerance according to the second setting procedure.

3. An information processing device as described in claim 2, wherein the processor, when the specific geometric tolerance is set in the second setting procedure, causes the display device to display an additional instruction element that is operated to set the datum after setting the specific geometric tolerance, and proceeds with the setting procedure to setting the datum in response to the operation of the additional instruction element.

4. An information processing device as described in claim 3, wherein when the specific geometric tolerance is set in the second setting procedure, the processor notifies the user of information indicating that the datum is required in correspondence with the setting of the specific geometric tolerance.

5. An information processing device as described in claim 2, wherein when the setting instruction element is operated to set the geometric tolerance, and the geometric tolerance to be set is a geometric tolerance that does not require the datum, unlike the specific geometric tolerance, the processor sets the geometric tolerance based on the user's instructions.

6. A computer program configured to cause a computer processor to: display a model of an object on a display device; set a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least a part of attribute information of the object based on a user's instruction regarding the model displayed on the display device; and, when a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set in setting the geometric tolerance, select either one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, or a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum, thereby setting the geometric tolerance.

7. An information processing method which causes a computer processor to display a model of an object on a display device, and set a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least a part of the attribute information of the object based on a user's instructions regarding the model displayed on the display device, and when a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set in setting the geometric tolerance, select either one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum, or a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum, thereby setting the geometric tolerance.

8. An estimation system including a processor, wherein the processor: acquires model data describing an object; displays a model of the object on a display device based on the model data; sets attribute information of the object based on a user's instruction regarding the model displayed on the display device; generates an estimate required to provide the object based on the model data and the attribute information and presents it to the user; when setting the attribute information, sets a geometric tolerance of a target portion of the object as at least a part of the attribute information based on the user's instruction; and, when a specific geometric tolerance requiring a datum is to be set with regard to the setting of the geometric tolerance, selects one of a first setting procedure in which the datum is set first and then the specific geometric tolerance is set to correspond to the datum and the specific geometric tolerance, and a second setting procedure in which the specific geometric tolerance is set first and then the datum is set to correspond to the datum and the specific geometric tolerance, and sets the geometric tolerance.

Images