Information processing device, display method, and display program

Abstract

This information processing device, which performs information processing for a controller, includes a display control unit that: accepts an instruction that is set on a display screen; displays a screen that allows a user to select whether to process data on a device other than a controller or to process the data on a controller connected via a network; and processes the data on the basis of the result of a selection made by a user on the screen.

Description

Information processing device, display method, and display program

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device, a display method, and a display program.

[0002] Applications are used that can manage, create, edit, read, save, and perform other operations on project data. This project data includes data related to controller settings and programs that run on the controller. The controller is a PLC (Programmable Logic Controller), etc.

[0003] For example, the application can select a PC (Personal Computer), a controller, etc. as the target for reading or saving project data. The user reads or saves project data using different operating procedures for each target.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-62223 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-75616 Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-53763

[0005] As described above, if the targets for performing the read process or save process on the project data are different between the PC and the controller, the user must perform separate and independent operation procedures for each target, which places a heavy burden on the user.

[0006] In one aspect, an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, a display method, and a display program that can reduce the burden on a user even when there are multiple targets for performing various processes on project data.

[0007] An information processing device according to one aspect has a display control unit that receives instructions set on a display screen, displays a screen that allows a user to select whether to process data on something other than the controller or on a controller connected via a network, and processes the data based on the user's selection on the screen.

[0008] In one aspect of the display method, the computer receives instructions set on a display screen, displays a screen that allows the user to select whether to process data on something other than the controller or on a controller connected via a network, and processes the data based on the user's selection on the screen.

[0009] In one aspect, the display program causes a computer to receive instructions set on a display screen, display a screen that allows the user to select whether to process data on something other than the controller or on a controller connected via a network, and execute data processing based on the user's selection on the screen.

[0010] According to one embodiment, even when there are multiple targets for which various processes are to be performed on project data, the burden on the user can be reduced.

[0011] 1 is a diagram showing an application screen of conventional read processing when the target is a PC. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of conventional read processing when the target is a PC. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an application screen of conventional read processing when the target is a controller. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of conventional read processing when the target is a controller. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an application screen of conventional save processing when the target is a PC. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of conventional save processing when the target is a PC. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an application screen of conventional save processing when the target is a controller. FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of conventional save processing when the target is a controller. FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the difference in download / upload direction. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an application screen during read processing. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an application screen during read processing. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of read processing executed by the information processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an application screen during save processing. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an application screen during save processing. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration.

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the information processing device, display method, and display program disclosed in the present application will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Furthermore, the same elements are given the same reference numerals, redundant descriptions are omitted as appropriate, and the embodiments can be combined as appropriate within a range that does not cause inconsistency.

[0013] (An example of conventional technology) Before describing the information processing device according to this embodiment, an example of the procedure for read processing and save processing according to conventional technology will be described. In the following description, a device (application) that performs read processing and save processing according to conventional technology will be referred to as a "conventional device." Note that the targets of the read processing and save processing of project data will be a "PC (the conventional device itself)" and a "controller."

[0014] The following describes a conventional technique for reading data from a PC. Fig. 1 shows an application screen for the conventional reading process when the target is a PC. For example, when a user reads project data from a PC, the user operates an input device of the conventional device to perform various operations on the application screen 10.

[0015] 2 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a conventional read process when the target is a PC. As shown in FIG. 2, the conventional device accepts the selection of the "File" menu on the application screen 10 (step S10). The conventional device accepts the selection of "Open Project" (step S11).

[0016] The conventional device displays the file dialog 10a (step S12), accepts the selection of the project data displayed in the file dialog 10a (step S13), and reads the selected project data (step S14).

[0017] Next, a description will be given of a conventional technique for reading data from a controller. Fig. 3 shows an application screen for the conventional reading process when the target is a controller. When a user reads project data from a controller, the user operates an input device of the conventional device to perform various operations on the application screen 10.

[0018] 4 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a conventional read process when the target is a controller. As shown in FIG. 4, the conventional device accepts the selection of the "Online" menu on the application screen 10 (step S20). The conventional device also accepts the selection of "Connect" (step S21).

[0019] The conventional device accepts the communication connection setting from the controller (step S22). The conventional device connects to the controller based on the communication connection setting (step S23). If the conventional device has not successfully connected to the controller (step S24, No), the conventional device proceeds to step S22.

[0020] On the other hand, if the conventional device has successfully connected to the controller (step S24, Yes), the conventional device accepts an instruction to upload the project data (step S25), and executes the upload of the project data (step S26).

[0021] When the target of the read process is a PC (conventional device), the user selects the "File" menu on the application screen 10 shown in Fig. 1 as the starting point, and the read process of the project data is executed according to the processing procedure described in Fig. 2. On the other hand, when the target of the read process is a controller, the user selects the "Online" menu on the application screen 10 shown in Fig. 3 as the starting point, and the read process of the project data is executed according to the processing procedure shown in Fig. 4.

[0022] Next, a conventional technique for saving data to a PC will be described. Fig. 5 shows an application screen for the conventional saving process when the target is a PC. For example, when a user saves project data to a PC, the user operates an input device of the conventional device to perform various operations on the application screen 10.

[0023] 6 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a conventional save process when the target is a PC. As shown in FIG. 6, the conventional device accepts the selection of the "File" menu on the application screen 10 (step S30). The conventional device also accepts the selection of "Accept project name and save" (step S31).

[0024] The conventional device displays the file dialog box 10b (step S32), accepts the setting of the project data name (step S33), and saves the project data (step S34).

[0025] Next, a description will be given of a conventional technique for saving data to a controller. Fig. 7 shows an application screen for the conventional saving process when the target is a controller. For example, when a user saves project data to a controller, the user operates an input device of the conventional device to perform various operations on the application screen 10.

[0026] 8 is a flowchart showing the procedure of a conventional save process when the target is a controller. As shown in FIG. 8, the conventional device accepts the selection of the "Online" menu on the application screen 10 (step S40). The conventional device accepts the selection of "Connect" (step S41).

[0027] The conventional device accepts the communication connection setting from the controller (step S42). The conventional device connects to the controller based on the communication connection setting (step S43). If the conventional device has not successfully connected to the controller (step S44, No), the conventional device proceeds to step S42.

[0028] On the other hand, if the conventional device has successfully connected to the controller (step S44, Yes), the conventional device accepts an instruction to download the project data (step S45), and executes the download of the project data (step S46).

[0029] If the target of the save process is a PC (conventional device), the user selects the "File" menu on the application screen 10 shown in Fig. 5, and the save process of the project data is executed according to the processing procedure described in Fig. 6. On the other hand, if the target of the save process is a controller, the user selects the "Online" menu on the application screen 10 shown in Fig. 7, and the save process of the project data is executed according to the processing procedure shown in Fig. 8.

[0030] 1 to 8, in the prior art, when the targets of the read process or save process are different between a PC and a controller, separate operating procedures are performed for each target, making the operations required of the user cumbersome. Also, because the operations that serve as the starting points for the read process or save process are separate, it is difficult for users who are not accustomed to the operations to understand the details of the operations, and additional learning costs are incurred in mastering the operations.

[0031] Furthermore, in conventional technology, when the target of the project data reading and saving processes is a controller, the reading process is generally expressed as an upload and the writing process as a download, but each manufacturer often uses their own unique names, which can be difficult for users to understand.

[0032] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating the difference between the download and upload directions. For example, when the target is a controller, the meaning of the direction of data movement in the upload / download operation when using the Internet on a PC or smartphone is reversed, as shown in FIG. 9. This can be confusing for users unfamiliar with controllers.

[0033] (First embodiment) (Configuration of system 1) Next, an example of the configuration of a system according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a system according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, this system 1 has an information processing device 100 and controllers 60a, 60b, 60c, and 60d. The information processing device 100 and the controllers 60a to 60d are connected to each other via a network N. The network N is a LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless LAN, or the like. Note that the information processing device 100 and the controllers 60a to 60d may also be directly connected via a USB (Universal Serial Bus) or the like.

[0034] The controllers 60a to 60d are PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) or the like. Although the controllers 60a to 60c are shown in Fig. 10, the system 1 may include other controllers. In the following description, when there is no need to particularly distinguish between the controllers 60a to 60c, the controllers 60a to 60d will be collectively referred to as "controller 60."

[0035] The information processing device 100 is a terminal device operated by a user, such as a PC, laptop, smartphone, or tablet. The user uses an application on the information processing device 100 to manage, create, edit, read, save, and otherwise process project data 20. The project data 20 includes data related to the settings of the controller 60, programs that run on the controller 60, and the like.

[0036] Regardless of whether the user selects the internal storage 141 or the controller 60 as the target for performing the read and save processes on the project data 20, the information processing device 100 displays the same interface and performs the read and save processes starting from the same operation.

[0037] (Processing Contents of Information Processing Device 100) The read process and save process executed by the information processing device 100 will be described. For example, the information processing device 100 displays a menu screen that allows the user to select "Execute read process" or "Execute save process." When the user selects "Execute read process," the information processing device 100 starts the read process. On the other hand, when the user selects "Execute save process," the information processing device 100 starts the save process. Although not described below, the user operates the information processing device 100 via an input device of the information processing device 100. The input device may be a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, or the like.

[0038] (Reading Process) An example of the reading process executed by the information processing device 100 will be described. The information processing device 100 displays the application screen 30 shown in Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a diagram (1) showing an example of the application screen during the reading process.

[0039] For example, when the information processing device 100 receives selection of the "Open Project" button displayed in area 31 of the application screen 30, it displays information in area 32. Area 32 includes an "Open from this PC" button and an "Open from CPU module" button. When the user wants to read project data from the internal storage 141, the user selects the "Open from this PC" button. On the other hand, when the user wants to read project data from the controller 60, the user selects "Open from CPU module."

[0040] First, a process will be described when the information processing device 100 receives a selection of the "Open from this PC" button from the user. When the information processing device 100 receives the selection of the "Open from this PC" button, it displays the history area 33. The history area 33 includes a history of project data that has been loaded so far and a reference button 33a.

[0041] When the user presses the browse button 33a in the history area 33, the information processing device 100 displays a file dialog 34. The user selects project data from an arbitrary path on the file dialog 34 and presses the open button 34a. When the open button 34a is pressed, the information processing device 100 reads the project data corresponding to the specified path from the internal storage 141.

[0042] The history of project data that has been read up to now is displayed in association with the path in the history area 33. When the information processing device 100 receives a selection of any history from the user, it reads the project data from the internal storage 141 based on the path corresponding to the history.

[0043] Next, the process performed by the information processing device 100 when the user selects the "Open from CPU module" button will be described with reference to Fig. 12. Fig. 12 is a diagram (2) showing an example of an application screen during a read process.

[0044] When the information processing device 100 receives a user's selection of the "Open from CPU module" button, it displays a selection area 35. The user selects the controller from which to read from the selection area 35. For example, the CPU type name "CPU001" in the selection area 35 corresponds to the controller 60a. The CPU type name "CPU002" corresponds to the controller 60b. The CPU type name "CPU003" corresponds to the controller 60c. The CPU type name "CPU004" corresponds to the controller 60d. Note that the above relationships between the CPU type names and the controllers 60 are merely examples.

[0045] When the user wants to read project data from controller 60a, he checks radio button 35-1. When the user wants to read project data from controller 60b, he checks radio button 35-2. When the user wants to read project data from controller 60c, he checks radio button 35-3. When the user wants to read project data from controller 60d, he checks radio button 35-4.

[0046] The following explanation will be given assuming that the user has checked radio button 35-1. The user presses communication settings button 35a in selection area 35 to configure communication settings for controller 60a. The communication settings configured by the user include the selection of a communication medium (LAN, wireless LAN, USB) and various communication conditions related to communication with the selected controller 60a.

[0047] After the "Open Project" button 34b is pressed, the information processing device 100 attempts to connect to the controller 60 selected by the user using the communication settings set by the user. If the information processing device 100 fails to connect to the target controller 60, it displays information to that effect. In this case, the user can take action such as changing the communication settings or changing the target controller.

[0048] If the information processing apparatus 100 has successfully connected to the target controller 60 , it reads the project data from the target controller 60 .

[0049] (Processing Procedure of Reading Process) The processing procedure of reading process executed by the information processing device 100 will be described. Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of reading process executed by the information processing device according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 13, the information processing device 100 displays the application screen 30 and accepts selection of the "Open Project" button (step S101).

[0050] If the information processing device 100 receives the selection of the "Open from this PC" button (Yes at step S102), the information processing device 100 proceeds to step S103. The information processing device 100 displays the history area 33 and receives the press of the reference button 33a (step S103).

[0051] The information processing device 100 displays the file dialog 34 (step S104). The information processing device 100 accepts operation of the "Select and Open" button for project data from the file dialog 34 (step S105). The information processing device 100 reads the target project data from the internal storage 141 (step S106).

[0052] On the other hand, if the information processing apparatus 100 does not accept the selection of the "Open from this PC" button (if the information processing apparatus 100 accepts the selection of the "Open from CPU module" button) (step S102, No), the process proceeds to step S107.

[0053] The information processing device 100 accepts the selection of the controller 60 to be read from (step S107). The information processing device 100 accepts connection settings for the controller (step S108). The information processing device 100 executes connection with the controller 60 based on the connection settings (step S109). If the connection is not successful (step S110, No), the information processing device 100 proceeds to step S107.

[0054] On the other hand, if the connection is successful (Yes at step S110), the information processing apparatus 100 reads the project data from the connected controller 60 (step S111).

[0055] The above describes an example of the read process executed by the information processing device 100. As described above, when the information processing device 100 receives selection of the "Open Project" button on the application screen 30, it displays an "Open from this PC" button and an "Open from CPU module" button, and executes the read process of the project data based on the user's selection. That is, regardless of the read target, the information processing device 100 prompts the user to select whether to read the project data from the internal storage 141 or the controller 60 from a single starting point of selecting the "Open Project" button. This reduces the burden on the user compared to the prior art, in which the starting point of the operation differs depending on the target of the read process.

[0056] (Saving Process) Next, a description will be given of an example of the saving process executed by the information processing device 100. The information processing device 100 displays the application screen 40 shown in Fig. 14. Fig. 14 is a diagram (1) showing an example of the application screen during the saving process.

[0057] For example, when the information processing device 100 receives selection of the "Save Project As" button displayed in area 41 of the application screen 40, it displays area 42. Area 42 includes a "Save to this PC" button and a "Save to CPU Module" button. When the user wants to save project data in the internal storage 141, the user selects the "Save to this PC" button. On the other hand, when the user wants to save project data in the controller 60, the user selects the "Save to CPU Module" button.

[0058] First, a process will be described when the information processing device 100 receives a selection of the "Save to this PC" button from the user. When the information processing device 100 receives the selection of the "Save to this PC" button, it displays a history area 43. The history area 43 includes a history of project data saves, a reference button 43a, and a "Save project" button 43b.

[0059] When the user presses the browse button 43a in the history area 43, the information processing device 100 displays a file dialog 44. The user sets the storage contents, such as an arbitrary path and a file name of the project data, on the file dialog 44, and presses the save button 44a. When the information processing device 100 receives the press of the save button 44a, it saves the project data in the internal storage 141 according to the set storage contents (path, file name).

[0060] In addition, radio buttons are displayed in the history area 43 in association with each save history (save destination path). The user may select one of the radio buttons and then press the "Save Project" button 43b. In this case, the information processing device 100 overwrites and saves the project data of the corresponding project in the selected save destination path using the project name set in the area 43c.

[0061] Next, the process performed by the information processing device 100 when the user selects the "Save to CPU module" button will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a diagram (2) showing an example of an application screen during the save process.

[0062] When the information processing device 100 receives a user's selection of the "Save to CPU module" button, it displays a selection area 45. The user selects the controller to be saved from the selection area 45. The relationship between the CPU model name and the controller 60 is the same as that described with reference to FIG. 12 etc.

[0063] For example, the information processing device 100 changes the information of each controller displayed in the selection area 45 according to the connection status. The information processing device 100 displays information of logged-in controllers (e.g., controllers 60a and 60b) in a valid state and displays a logout button in the area 45a. The information processing device 100 displays information of controllers that are not logged in (e.g., controllers 60c and 60d) in a invalid state and displays a login button in the area 45a. For example, the information in the invalid state is displayed semi-transparently.

[0064] When the user presses the logout button in the area 45a, the information processing device 100 disconnects the currently connected controller 60 and replaces the logout button with a login button.

[0065] When the user presses the login button in area 45a, the information processing device 100 connects to the controller 60 to be connected. The connection settings for the controller to be connected are set in advance by the user. The user selects the communication settings button 45b to set the connection for the controller 60. Note that the information processing device 100 may connect to the controller 60 using default communication settings. If the connection is successful, the information processing device replaces the login button with a logout button and displays it.

[0066] A plurality of check boxes are arranged in the area 45c. The user checks the check box corresponding to the controller 60 for which project data is to be saved. The information processing device 100 accepts check boxes corresponding to controllers that have already logged in. Note that the information processing device 100 prevents check boxes corresponding to controllers that have not yet logged in from being accepted.

[0067] With the checkboxes checked, the user presses the "Save Project" button 45d. When the "Save Project" button 45d is pressed, the information processing device 100 saves the project data in the controller 60a corresponding to the checked checkbox. In the example shown in FIG. 15, the checkbox for the CPU model name "CPU001" is checked. In this state, when the "Save Project" button 45d is pressed, the information processing device 100 transmits the project data to the controller 60a and saves the project data.

[0068] The user can check multiple check boxes. When the "Save Project" button 45d is pressed with multiple check boxes checked, the information processing device 100 transmits the project data to the controllers corresponding to the checked check boxes and saves the project data.

[0069] (Procedure of Save Processing) The procedure of the save processing executed by the information processing device 100 will be described. Fig. 16 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the save processing executed by the information processing device according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 16, the information processing device 100 displays the application screen 40 and accepts selection of the "Save Project As" button (step S201).

[0070] When the information processing apparatus 100 receives the selection of the "Save to PC" button (Yes at step S202), the information processing apparatus 100 proceeds to step S203. The information processing apparatus 100 displays the history area 43 and receives the press of the reference button 43a (step S203).

[0071] The information processing device 100 displays the file dialog 44 (step S204). The information processing device 100 accepts an operation regarding "information regarding saving" of the project data from the file dialog 44 (step S205). The information processing device 100 saves the target project data in the internal storage 141 (step S206).

[0072] On the other hand, if the information processing apparatus 100 does not accept the selection of the "Save to PC" button (if the information processing apparatus 100 accepts the selection of the "Save to CPU module" button) (step S202, No), the process proceeds to step S207.

[0073] The information processing device 100 accepts the selection of the controller to be saved (step S207). The information processing device 100 accepts the connection settings for the controller (step S208). The information processing device 100 executes the connection with the controller 60 based on the connection settings (step S209). If the connection is not successful (step S210, No), the information processing device 100 proceeds to step S207.

[0074] On the other hand, if the connection is successful (Yes at step S210), the information processing apparatus 100 stores the project data in the designated controller 60 as the connection destination (step S211).

[0075] The above describes an example of the saving process executed by the information processing device 100. As described above, when the information processing device 100 receives selection of the "Save Project As" button on the application screen 40, it displays a "Save to PC" button and a "Save to CPU Module" button, and executes the saving process of the project data based on the user's selection. That is, regardless of the saving target, the information processing device 100 prompts the user to select whether to save the project data in the internal storage 141 or the controller 60 from a single starting point of selecting the "Save Project As" button. This reduces the burden on the user compared to conventional technology in which the starting point of the operation differs depending on the saving target.

[0076] (Functional configuration of information processing device 100) Next, an example configuration of the above-mentioned information processing device 100 will be described. Fig. 17 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the information processing device according to the first embodiment. As shown in Fig. 17, the information processing device 100 has a communication unit 110, an input unit 120, a display unit 130, a temporary storage unit 140, an internal storage 141, and a control unit 150. Note that the functional units of the information processing device 100 are not limited to those shown in the figure, and the information processing device 100 may have other functional units.

[0077] The communication unit 110 executes data communication with the controller 60 via the network N.

[0078] The input unit 120 inputs various types of information to the control unit 150 of the information processing device 100. The input unit 120 is a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, etc. A user operates the input unit 120 to select various types of information and input data.

[0079] The display unit 130 displays information output from the control unit 150 of the information processing device 100. For example, the display unit 130 displays the above-mentioned application screens 30, 40, and the like.

[0080] The temporary storage unit 140 is a storage unit that temporarily stores data used by the control unit 150. For example, the temporary storage unit 140 temporarily stores project data created by a predetermined application. The temporary storage unit 140 may temporarily store project data read by the above-mentioned read process. Furthermore, the project data stored in the temporary storage unit 140 is stored in the internal storage 141 or the controller 60 by the above-mentioned save process. The temporary storage unit 140 is a memory or the like.

[0081] The internal storage 141 is a storage unit that stores project data, etc. The internal storage 141 is a memory, a hard disk drive (HDD), etc.

[0082] The control unit 150 includes a display control unit 151. The control unit 150 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or the like.

[0083] The display control unit 151 executes the above-described read process and save process. When the display control unit 151 executes the read process, it causes the display unit 130 to display the application screen 30 shown in FIG. 11. The display control unit 151 executes the read process according to the procedure described in FIG. 13 based on the user's input operation. When the display control unit 151 executes the read process, project data is read from the internal storage 141 or the controller 60.

[0084] When the display control unit 151 executes the save process, it causes the display unit 130 to display the application screen 40 shown in Fig. 14. The display control unit 151 executes the save process based on the user's input operation, according to the procedure described in Fig. 16. When the display control unit 151 executes the save process, the project data is saved in the internal storage 141 or the controller 60.

[0085] (Effects) Next, the effects of the information processing device 100 according to the first embodiment will be described. When the information processing device 100 receives selection of the "Open Project" button on the application screen 30, it displays an "Open from this PC" button and an "Open from CPU module" button, and executes a process of reading project data based on the user's selection. That is, regardless of the read target, the information processing device 100 prompts the user to select whether to read project data from the internal storage 141 or the controller 60 from a single starting point of selecting the "Open Project" button. This reduces the burden on the user compared to the prior art, in which the starting point of the operation differs depending on the target of the read process.

[0086] When the information processing device 100 receives selection of the "Save Project As" button on the application screen 40, it displays a "Save to PC" button and a "Save to CPU Module" button, and executes the process of saving the project data based on the user's selection. That is, regardless of the save target, the information processing device 100 prompts the user to select whether to save the project data in the internal storage 141 or in the controller 60 from a single starting point of selecting the "Save Project As" button, thereby reducing the burden on the user compared to the prior art, in which the starting point of the operation differs depending on the target of the save process.

[0087] The information processing device 100 displays a screen on which multiple controllers 60 can be selected as the storage target, and based on the user's selection, stores the project data in the multiple controllers 60 selected by the user. This allows the user to work more efficiently when expanding project data to multiple controllers 60.

[0088] (Other system configurations) For example, in the example described in Figure 10, the information processing device 100 is connected to multiple controllers 60 via a network N, but this is not limited to this, and data reading and saving processes can be performed on storage other than the controller 60.

[0089] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing another system configuration. In the example shown in FIG. 18, the system 1a includes a cloud storage 70 as a storage other than the controller 60. The information processing device 100 is also connected to the cloud storage 70 in addition to the controller 60. This allows the user to select the cloud storage 70 and execute a read process or a save process for the project data 20. Although not illustrated in FIG. 18, the storage other than the controller 60 may include, in addition to the cloud storage 70, internal storage of the PC (information processing device 100), storage connected via USB, external storage such as an SSD (Solid State Drive), an external hard disk, network storage, and the like.

[0090] For example, when the information processing device 100 executes the read process described in FIG. 11, it accepts the user's specification of the path to the cloud storage 70 on the file dialog 34, and when the open button 34a is pressed, it reads the project data 20 from the cloud storage 70.

[0091] On the other hand, when executing the saving process described in Figure 14, the information processing device 100 accepts from the user on the file dialog 44 the specification of the path to cloud storage 70 and other settings of the saving contents, and when the save button 44a is pressed, saves the project data in cloud storage 70 according to the set saving contents (path, file name).

[0092] 18, the system 1a includes the cloud storage 70, but other targets may also be included. When other targets are included, the information processing device 100 displays the other targets in a selectable manner in the selection area 35 during the read process. When the "Open Project" button 34b is pressed with the other targets selected, the information processing device 100 reads project data from the selected targets.

[0093] Similarly, during the saving process, the information processing device 100 displays other objects in the selection area 45 so that they can be selected, and when the "Save Project" button 45d is pressed while another object is selected, the project data is saved to the selected object.

[0094] As described above, the present invention is configured to connect objects through the operations of reading and saving, and therefore can easily be configured to extend objects other than controllers.

[0095] (Example of functions of an application applied to information processing device 100) The application applied to information processing device 100 is a setting tool for the controller, and has functions such as a function to set up the controller, a function to monitor the controller, a function to download / upload programs that run on the controller, and a function to generate and provide definition files and libraries required for creating / running programs that run within the controller.

[0096] The function for configuring the controller is a function for configuring the controller's data management DB, OPC UA, EtherCAT, Linux (registered trademark), security settings, etc.

[0097] The controller monitoring function monitors the controller status, setting values, and values ​​that fluctuate within the data management database in real time.

[0098] The function of downloading / uploading a program that runs on the controller is a function that performs the save / read process in the present invention.

[0099] The function for generating and providing definition files and libraries required for creating / operating programs that run within the controller is, for example, a function for generating definition files (header files) used in C / C++ and libraries within the controller according to the contents of the data management DB settings.

[0100] (Hardware) Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the information processing device 100 will be described. Fig. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration. As shown in Fig. 19, the information processing device 100 has a communication device 6a, a hard disk drive (HDD) 6b, a memory 6c, and a processor 6d. In addition, the components shown in Fig. 19 are connected to each other via a bus or the like.

[0101] The communication device 6a communicates with the controller 60, the cloud storage 70, etc. The HDD 6b stores programs and DBs that operate the functions shown in FIG.

[0102] The processor 6d reads out from the HDD 6b or the like a program that executes the same processes as the respective processing units shown in Fig. 17 and loads it into the memory 6c, thereby operating a process that executes the respective functions described in Fig. 17 or the like. For example, this process executes the same functions as the respective processing units of the information processing device 100. Specifically, the processor 6d executes a process that executes the same processes as the display control unit 151 or the like.

[0103] In this way, the information processing device 100 operates as an information processing device that executes a display method by reading and executing a program. The information processing device 100 can also realize functions similar to those of the above-described embodiment by reading the program from a recording medium using a medium reading device and executing the read program. Note that the program in these other embodiments is not limited to being executed by the information processing device 100. For example, the present invention can also be applied in the same way to cases where another computer or server executes the program, or where these execute the program in cooperation with each other.

[0104] This program can be distributed via a network such as the Internet. In addition, this program can be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-ROM, a magneto-optical disk (MO), or a digital versatile disk (DVD), and can be read out from the recording medium and executed by a computer.

[0105] (Others) Some examples of combinations of the disclosed technical features are described below.

[0106] (1) An information processing device that processes information for a controller, the information processing device having a display control unit that receives instructions set on a display screen, displays a screen that allows a user to select whether to process data on a device other than the controller or on a controller connected via a network, and executes data reading processing based on the user's selection on the screen.

[0107] (2) The information processing device described in (1) in which the display control unit accepts the selection of a first instruction button, displays a first screen that allows the user to select whether to read data from a controller other than the controller or from a controller connected via a network, and executes a data reading process based on the user's selection on the first screen.

[0108] (3) The information processing device described in (2) above, wherein when the user's selection on the first screen is a selection result that targets data reading for something other than the controller, the display control unit executes the reading process for something other than the controller based on the path specified after the selection.

[0109] (4) An information processing device according to (2) or (3), wherein a plurality of controllers are connected via the network, and the display control unit, when a user's selection result on the first screen is a selection result for the controller to be the target for data reading, displays a selection screen for the plurality of controllers and executes the reading process for the controller selected on the selection screen.

[0110] (5) An information processing device described in any one of (1) to (4), wherein the display control unit further accepts selection of a second instruction button, and when the selection of the second instruction button is accepted, displays a second screen on which the user can select whether to save data on something other than the controller or on the controller, and further executes data saving processing based on the user's selection on the second screen.

[0111] (6) The information processing device described in (5) above, wherein when the user's selection on the second screen is a selection result for saving data to a device other than the controller, the display control unit executes the saving process for a device other than the controller based on the path specified after the selection.

[0112] (7) An information processing device according to (5) or (6), wherein a plurality of controllers are connected via the network, and the display control unit, when a user's selection result on the second screen is a selection result that specifies the controller as the target for saving data, displays a selection screen for the plurality of controllers and executes the saving process for the controller selected on the selection screen.

[0113] (8) The information processing device described in (7), wherein the display control unit displays a selection screen for the multiple controllers, and when two or more controllers are selected, executes the saving process for the two or more controllers.

[0114] (9) The information processing device described in (8), wherein the display control unit further executes a process of logging in to a specified controller among the plurality of controllers and limiting the display of selectable controllers to the logged-in controller.

[0115] (10) A display method in which a computer receives instructions set on a display screen, displays a screen that allows a user to select whether to process data on a controller other than the computer's controller or on a controller connected via a network, and executes a data read process based on the user's selection on the screen.

[0116] (11) A display program that causes a computer to receive instructions set on a display screen, display a screen that allows a user to select whether to process data on a controller other than the computer's controller or on a controller connected via a network, and execute a data read process based on the user's selection on the screen.

[0117] REFERENCE SIGNS LIST 100 Information processing device 110 Communication unit 120 Input unit 130 Display unit 140 Temporary storage unit 141 Internal storage 150 Control unit

Claims

1. An information processing device that processes information for a controller, comprising: a display control unit that receives instructions set on a display screen, displays a screen that allows a user to select whether to process data on a device other than the controller or on a controller connected via a network, and executes data processing based on the user's selection on the screen.

2. The information processing device of claim 1, wherein the display control unit accepts the selection of a first instruction button, displays a first screen that allows the user to select whether to read data from a controller other than the controller or from a controller connected via a network, and executes a data reading process based on the user's selection on the first screen.

3. An information processing device as described in claim 2, wherein, when a user's selection on the first screen is a selection result for loading data onto a device other than the controller, the display control unit executes the loading process onto a device other than the controller based on a path specified after the selection.

4. An information processing device as described in claim 2, wherein a plurality of controllers are connected via the network, and the display control unit, when a user's selection result on the first screen is a selection result for the controller to be the target for data reading, displays a selection screen for the plurality of controllers and executes the reading process for the controller selected on the selection screen.

5. The information processing device of claim 1, wherein the display control unit further accepts selection of a second instruction button, and when selection of the second instruction button is accepted, displays a second screen on which the user can select whether to save data to something other than the controller or to save data to the controller, and further executes data saving processing based on the user's selection on the second screen.

6. An information processing device as described in claim 5, wherein, when a user's selection on the second screen is a selection result for saving data to a device other than the controller, the display control unit executes the saving process for a device other than the controller based on a path specified after the selection.

7. An information processing device as described in claim 5, wherein a plurality of controllers are connected via the network, and the display control unit, when a user's selection result on the second screen is a selection result that specifies the controller as the target for saving data, displays a selection screen for the plurality of controllers and executes the saving process for the controller selected on the selection screen.

8. The information processing device according to claim 7, wherein the display control unit displays a selection screen for the plurality of controllers, and when two or more controllers are selected, executes the save process for the two or more controllers.

9. The information processing device according to claim 8, wherein the display control unit further executes a process of logging in to a designated controller from among the plurality of controllers and limiting the display of selectable controllers to the logged-in controller.

10. A display method in which a computer that processes information for a controller receives instructions set on a display screen, displays a screen that allows the user to select whether to process data on something other than the controller or on a controller connected via a network, and processes data based on the user's selection on the screen.

11. A display program that causes a computer that processes information for a controller to receive instructions set on a display screen, display a screen that allows the user to select whether to process data on something other than the controller or on a controller connected via a network, and execute data processing based on the user's selection on the screen.

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