JP6590726B2 - Programmable display and programmable system including the same, programmable display design apparatus, programmable display design method, programmable display operation method, programmable display design program, computer-readable recording medium, and stored device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a programmable display, a programmable system including the same, a programmable display design apparatus, a programmable display design method, a programmable display operation method, a programmable display design program, a computer-readable recording medium, and It relates to the stored device.

  In an FA (Factory Automation) system, a programmable logic controller (hereinafter referred to as “PLC”) is used as a control device that controls input / output devices such as a sensor device and a drive device. The operating state of the PLC can be monitored by a programmable display. The programmable display is mainly a display device for monitoring the operation state of the PLC, and obtains state data indicating the operation state from the operating PLC and displays it on the screen. Usually, a programmable display operates based on screen data and can perform a desired operation by rewriting screen data.

  When the programmable display is used, the system screen (menu screen) is activated by touching a specific area in the screen (for example, pressing the upper right of the screen).

  However, the operator must know which area of the programmable display is pressed to activate the menu area. It is necessary to remember the menu activation area because the menu screen is activated by a touch operation on a specific location regardless of the arrangement of the parts.

Japanese Patent No. 5630589 JP 2008-077146 A

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and one of its purposes is a programmable display that allows a user to set a menu that can be called by an arbitrary operation, a programmable system including the programmable display, and a programmable display. An object of the present invention is to provide a display design apparatus, a programmable display design method, a programmable display operation method, a programmable display design program, a computer-readable recording medium, and a stored device.

Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention

According to the programmable display device according to a first embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a programmable display device that can be connected to a programmable logic controller, a component setting means for receiving settings of one or more functional components, provided with a display screen, wherein A display unit that displays each functional component arranged on the display screen according to the setting of the component setting means, a touch detection unit that can detect a touch operation on the display screen in a touch panel manner, and the display unit. A component setting storage unit for storing a specific function assigned to each functional component according to the setting of each functional component, and the display screen instructed by a touch operation detected by the touch detection unit. The component determination unit for determining whether or not there is a functional component to which a specific function is assigned at the position, and the component determination unit A component processing unit for calling and processing a specific function assigned to the functional component stored in the component setting storage unit according to the determination that the functional component is touch-operated, and one or more functional components A page setting storage unit for storing setting contents in units of pages, with one screen displayed on the display screen as a page, and a part area other than the part area on the display screen where the functional parts are arranged and a non-component setting means for receiving settings for a specific operation action for non-component regions of the the non-component regions, the touch operation is performed when made, the relative non-component regions in accordance with the setting of the specific operation processing a specific operation setting storing unit for storing a certain specific operation processes assigned by the component determination unit in accordance with the determination of the non-component regions is touched, the specific operation set Stored in the storage unit, to call the particular specific operation processes assigned for the non-component regions may comprise a non-component processing unit for processing. With the above configuration, the user can assign a function to the specific operation process, and remember a special position and process on the display screen like a conventional hidden command as a touch operation for calling the specific operation process. There is no need. Therefore, it is possible to easily call an arbitrary function, and usability is improved.

  Moreover, according to the programmable display which concerns on a 2nd form, as the said specific operation process, the system mode function which calls the system setting screen of the said programmable display, the thumbnail corresponding to the said page are displayed, and any one thumbnail A system menu including at least one of a page thumbnail function for displaying a page corresponding to the thumbnail by selecting a device, and a device monitor function for referring to a device memory of a programmable logic controller connected to the programmable display Can be displayed.

  Further, according to the programmable display device according to the third aspect, as the specific operation process, a plurality of pages are reduced and displayed as a list, and an arbitrary reduced page is selected to switch to a page corresponding to the reduced page. The page switching process can be performed.

  Furthermore, according to the programmable display device according to the fourth aspect, the page switching process is such that reduced pages are displayed in a row, and only a part of a series of reduced page rows is displayed on the display screen. And can be displayed in a scrollable manner. With the above configuration, by scrolling the reduced page row, it becomes easy to find a desired page, and a plurality of pages can be easily switched.

  Furthermore, according to the programmable display device according to the fifth aspect, the reduced page columns displayed in the page switching process can be displayed in a row in the horizontal direction.

  Furthermore, according to the programmable display device according to the sixth aspect, the reduced page can be automatically generated by reducing the screen image of each page. With the above configuration, the page switching function can be easily realized in an easily understandable manner by automatically generating a reduced page without the user individually designing the reduced page.

  Furthermore, according to the programmable display device according to the seventh aspect, when the page switching process is selected, the page being displayed on the display screen is reduced as it is and is displayed as a reduced page. At least a part of a reduced page corresponding to another page different from the middle page can be configured to be displayed on the display screen. With the above configuration, after shifting to the page switching process, other reduced pages are also displayed so that the user can visually understand that the page switching operation is possible and can be used intuitively. .

  Furthermore, according to the programmable display device according to the eighth aspect, each reduced page displayed in the page switching process can display title characters corresponding to the contents of the reduced page.

  Furthermore, according to the programmable display device according to the ninth aspect, when the reduced page has an area in which the moving image is displayed in the original page, the moving image can be displayed as a still image. it can.

  Furthermore, according to the programmable display device according to the tenth embodiment, the background image displayed in the page switching process has reduced the brightness of the page displayed before the transition to the page switching process. it can.

  Furthermore, according to the programmable display device according to the eleventh aspect, it is provided with a return mechanism for returning to the page displayed before the transition to the page switching process in the state switched to the page switching process. it can.

  Furthermore, according to the programmable display device according to the twelfth aspect, the return mechanism can be a touch operation on the background image of the page switching process. With the above configuration, it is possible to easily return to the original page.

Furthermore, according to the programmable display which concerns on another form, the touch discrimination | determination part for discriminating the kind of touch operation when a non-component area | region is further touched can be provided. With the above configuration, the specific operation process can be called by a specific touch operation. In particular, it is possible to prevent a specific operation process from being called when an area other than a functional component is touched by mistake, and to cause the user to perform a specific operation, so that the specific operation process is called only when the user intends to do so. In this way, it is possible to avoid a situation where the specific operation process is called at an unintended timing, and to improve the operation stability.

Furthermore, according to the programmable display which concerns on another form, when specific touch operation is detected by the said touch discrimination | determination part, it can comprise so that it may transfer to specific operation processing. With the above configuration, the specific operation process is executed only by a specific touch operation, and a situation in which the specific operation process is executed unintentionally, for example, when a functional component is pressed by mistake, can be avoided.

Furthermore, according to the programmable display which concerns on another form, the kind of touch operation which the said touch discrimination | determination part detects can be made into at least any one of a long press, a double tap, a flick, a pinch in, and a pinch out.

Furthermore, according to the programmable display which concerns on a 13th form, when the said display screen switches to a specific operation process, it can comprise so that a display screen may change gradually with an animation. With the above configuration, instead of suddenly switching the screen, the screen transition state that switches from the previous screen to the screen after the transition is displayed as an animation, which indicates to the user that the screen has been switched and gives a sense of security. Can be given.

Furthermore, according to the programmable display which concerns on 14th form, the security level determination part for determining whether it has the authority which permits further calling of a specific operation process can be provided.

Furthermore, according to the programmable display which concerns on another form, the said non-component area | region can be made into the wallpaper of the said display screen.

Furthermore, according to the programmable display which concerns on a 15th form, the said specific operation process can be made into the common menu which can be performed from any page. With the above configuration, the user can easily call an arbitrary function from any page, and usability is further improved.

Furthermore, according to the programmable system which concerns on a 16th form, it is programmable provided with said programmable display which can assign a device with respect to this programmable logic controller and a programmable logic controller and the said programmable logic controller Can with the system.

Furthermore, according to the design apparatus of the programmable display which concerns on 17th form, it is the design apparatus of the programmable display for setting with respect to the programmable display connectable with a programmable logic controller, Comprising: One or more as function setting part sets the arrangement of the respective functional components on the display screen of the programmable display device, the respective functional components, and parts assignment unit to assign a specific function, on the display screen, the function as the setting of the specific operation processing for the non-component regions other than the components are arranged component regions, and pairs to the non-component regions, and the non-component regions operation assignment unit to assign a particular specific operation process, setting the programmable display device In order to do so, setting data including the setting of each functional component and the setting of the specific operation process for the programmable display It can comprise means for transferring.

Furthermore, according to the programmable display design method according to another embodiment, the programmable display design method connected to the programmable logic controller, the display screen of the programmable display capable of arranging one or more functional components While assigning a specific function to each of the functional components arranged above, in a state where one or more functional components are arranged on the display screen, the component area where the functional components are arranged, and the functional components A step of allocating a specific specific operation process to be executed when the non-component region is touched by a touch detection unit capable of detecting a touch operation on the display screen among the non-component regions that are not arranged. it can. As a result, the user can assign a function to the specific operation process, and needs to remember a special position and process on the display screen like a conventional hidden command as a touch operation for calling the specific operation process. There is no. Therefore, it is possible to easily call an arbitrary function, and usability is improved.

Furthermore, according to the operation method of the programmable display device according to another embodiment, the operation method of the programmable display device connected to the programmable logic controller, wherein one or more functional components are arranged on the display screen. , Executed when a non-component area out of a component area in which the functional component is arranged and a non-component area in which the functional component is not arranged is touched by a touch detection unit capable of detecting a touch operation on the display screen. In a state where a specific specific operation process to be performed is assigned, a non-component area is included in a component area in which the functional component is arranged and a non-component area in which the functional component is not arranged on the display screen. The step of detecting whether or not the touch is detected by the touch detection unit, and when the touch operation on the non-component region is detected, the assigned specific operation process is performed. It may include a step of rows. As a result, the user can assign a function to the specific operation process, and needs to remember a special position and process on the display screen like a conventional hidden command as a touch operation for calling the specific operation process. There is no. Therefore, it is possible to easily call an arbitrary function, and usability is improved.

Furthermore, according to the design program for the programmable display device according to the eighteenth aspect, it is a design program for the programmable display device that can be connected to the programmable logic controller, and the program is arranged on the display screen of the programmable display device . as function setting part sets the arrangement of the respective functional components of the display screen, relative to respective functional components, and parts allocation function to assign specific functions on the display screen, wherein the functional component is arranged as the setting of the specific operation processing for the non-component regions other than the component regions which are, in pairs to the non-component regions, certain specific operation process and the non-goods area operation allocation function to allocate, to set the programmable display device The setting data including the setting of each functional component and the setting of the specific operation process is transferred to the programmable display. Features and can be implemented in a computer that. With the above configuration, the user can assign a function to the specific operation process, and remember a special position and process on the display screen like a conventional hidden command as a touch operation for calling the specific operation process. There is no need. Therefore, it is possible to easily call an arbitrary function, and usability is improved.

Furthermore, a computer-readable recording medium or a stored device according to the nineteenth aspect stores the program. CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, flexible disk, magnetic tape, MO, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD-R, DVD + R, DVD-RW, DVD + RW, Blu-ray (registered) Trademark), HD DVD (AOD), and other magnetic disks, optical disks, magneto-optical disks, semiconductor memories, and other media that can store programs. The program includes a program distributed in a download manner through a network line such as the Internet, in addition to a program stored and distributed in the recording medium. Furthermore, the stored devices include general-purpose or dedicated devices in which the program is implemented in a state where it can be executed in the form of software, firmware, or the like. Furthermore, each process and function included in the program may be executed by computer-executable program software, or each part of the process or hardware may be executed by hardware such as a predetermined gate array (FPGA, ASIC), or program software. And a partial hardware module that realizes a part of hardware elements may be mixed.

It is a block diagram which shows the programmable display which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is an image figure which shows the user interface screen of the design program of a programmable display. It is an image figure which shows the user interface screen which arrange | positions the functional component in which a touch operation is possible on a display screen. It is an image figure which shows the setting screen of the operation content when a touch operation is detected. It is an image figure which shows the screen which transfers setting content from the design apparatus of a programmable display to a programmable display. It is a schematic diagram which shows a mode that specific operation processing is executable with respect to a non-component area | region. It is a flowchart which shows the operation method of a programmable display. It is an image figure which shows the display screen of a programmable display. It is the image figure which displayed the system menu and the page switching process in the state of FIG. It is an image figure which shows the state scrolled from the state of FIG. It is an image figure which shows a mode that it scrolls from the state of FIG. 10 and selects a reduction page. It is an image figure which shows the state switched to the display screen corresponding to the reduction | decrease page selected in FIG. It is an image figure which shows the example of a carousel display. It is an image figure which shows the example of the animation switched to a carousel display. It is a schematic diagram which shows the display mode of the center reduction | decrease page in carousel display. It is a schematic diagram which shows a mode that the touched finger is slid from the state of FIG. It is an image figure which shows the mode of the position adjustment in the center of the reduction | decrease page in carousel display. It is an image figure which shows operation | movement when it reaches an edge part by carousel display. It is an image figure which shows the example of a display of the page number in a carousel display. It is an image figure which shows the example which provided the page turning switch in carousel display. It is an image figure which shows a mode that it moves between groups per group. It is an image figure which shows the example which prescribes | regulates a group name and order with the design program of a programmable display. It is an image figure which shows a mode that a thumbnail display screen is switched by pinch in. It is an image figure which shows a mode that the background image of a page switching screen is touched and it returns to the original screen. It is the image figure which expanded and displayed the system menu. It is an image figure which shows a mode that the button of a system menu is touched. It is an image figure which shows the system setting screen of a programmable display. It is an image figure which shows a page thumbnail display screen. It is an image figure which shows a device monitor screen. It is an image figure which shows the example which displays a system menu on a vertical line. It is an image figure which shows the example which makes a system menu the arrangement | sequence of several rows. It is an image figure which shows the example which displays a system menu in a cross shape. It is an image figure which shows the example which displays a system menu in the shape of a flower. It is an image figure which shows a mode that a system menu is displayed by animation. It is an image figure which shows a change when the button of a system menu is touched. It is an image figure which shows the relationship between the position touched and the display position of a system menu. It is an image figure which shows the position correction process when a system menu protrudes from the screen. It is an image figure which shows the position correction process in case a system menu protrudes from the screen left. FIG. 10 is an image diagram illustrating a page switching screen according to the second embodiment. It is an image figure which shows a mode that the background image of a page switching screen is touched from FIG. 39, and it returns to the original screen. It is an image figure which shows the touch position which performs a system mode function. It is an image figure which shows the touch position which performs a device monitor function. It is an image figure which shows the system menu display screen which concerns on Embodiment 3. FIG. It is an image figure which shows a mode that the button of a system menu is touched from the state of FIG. It is an image figure which shows a mode that the background image of a system menu display screen is touched from FIG. 44, and it returns to the original screen. It is an image figure which shows the user interface screen of the design program of a programmable display. It is an image figure which shows a mode that a custom menu is selected. It is an image figure which shows an example of a custom menu. It is an image figure which shows the screen which performs the setting with respect to operation of a double tap. It is an image figure which shows the setting screen of long press time. It is an image figure of the setting screen which designates the device which permits the calling of specific operation processing, and its operation state. It is an image figure which shows the example of a setting screen which sets a security level collectively. It is an image figure which shows the example of a setting screen which sets a security level for every page. It is an image figure which shows the screen attribute setting screen which sets the attribute of a screen. It is a schematic diagram which shows a mode that a dead zone is set around the functional component which can be touched. It is an image figure which shows the setting screen which turns ON / OFF the call of a specific operation process on the programmable display side. It is an image figure which shows a mode that a programmable display is accessed from a remote terminal using a VNC server function.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the embodiment described below is an example for embodying the technical idea of the present invention, and the present invention is not limited to the following. Moreover, this specification does not specify the member shown by the claim as the member of embodiment. In particular, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, and the like of the component parts described in the embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention only to specific examples unless otherwise specifically described. Only. Note that the size, positional relationship, and the like of the members shown in each drawing may be exaggerated for clarity of explanation. Furthermore, in the following description, the same name and reference sign indicate the same or the same members, and detailed description will be omitted as appropriate. Furthermore, each element constituting the present invention may be configured such that a plurality of elements are constituted by the same member and the plurality of elements are shared by one member, and conversely, the function of one member is constituted by a plurality of members. It can also be realized by sharing.
(Embodiment 1)

  The programmable display which concerns on Embodiment 1 of this invention is shown in the block diagram of FIG. A programmable display 100 shown in this figure is connected to a programmable logic controller PLC to constitute a programmable system 1000. The programmable display 100 can assign devices to the PLC. A plurality of target systems TGT to be controlled are connected to the PLC. Such a programmable system 1000 is constructed as a control system for controlling a large number of target systems TGT installed in a factory.

  The target system TGT connected to the PLC includes sensors such as a temperature sensor and an optical sensor, switches such as a push button switch, a limit switch, and a pressure switch, an actuator, a relay, and a solenoid valve. These target systems TGT are arranged in required parts such as a production line.

  The programmable display 100 can be connected to a computer PC, and a page displayed on the display screen of the programmable display 100 can be designed by a programmable display design program installed in the computer PC.

The screen data created by the computer PC is transferred to the programmable display 100 as a data format that can be decoded by the programmable display 100. In the programmable display 100, the screen data is stored in a file format that can be stored in the storage unit 40 such as a flash memory, and the operation of the target system TGT is performed based on data exchanged with the PLC when the PLC is in operation. Depending on the state, it is displayed on the display screen of the programmable display device 100 as a functional component consisting of each component and figure.
(Programmable display 100)

  A programmable display 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a touch detection unit 10, a touch determination unit 12, a component determination unit 14, a processing unit 20, a display unit 30, a storage unit 40, and a display side communication unit 50. Prepare.

  The display unit 30 includes a display screen, and one or more functional components can be arranged on the display screen. The display unit 30 can be an LCD or organic EL having a touch panel function. The touch detection unit 10 can detect a touch operation on the display screen of the display unit 30 in a touch panel manner. The touch determination unit 12 is a member for determining the type of touch operation when the display screen is touched. Examples of the type of touch operation detected by the touch determination unit 12 include long press (long tap), double tap, flick, pinch-in, and pinch-out. By making a specific action process executed only with a specific touch operation, for example, when you try to touch a functional part and touch a part without a functional part by mistake, the specific action process is executed unintentionally. By avoiding accidents and by causing the user to consciously perform specific operations, the specific action process is called only when the user intends to avoid the situation where the specific action process is called at an unintended timing. , Can improve the stability of operation.

The component determination unit 14 is a member for determining whether or not there is a functional component to which a specific function is assigned at a position on the display screen instructed by the touch operation detected by the touch detection unit 10. . In this example, the touch detection unit 10, the touch determination unit 12, and the component determination unit 14 are illustrated as individual members or functions, but two or more of these members and functions may be integrated into one. For example, the touch detection unit and the touch determination unit may be realized as the same member or function.
(Processing unit 20)

  The processing unit 20 includes a component processing unit 22 and a non-component processing unit 24. Among them, the component processing unit 22 calls a specific function assigned to the functional component stored in the component setting storage unit 41 according to the determination that the specific functional component is touch-operated by the component determination unit 14. And a member for processing. Further, the non-component processing unit 24 calls a specific function assigned to the non-component area stored in the specific operation setting storage unit 42 according to the determination that the non-component area is touched by the component determination unit 14. And a member for processing. Furthermore, the processing unit 20 may include a security level determination unit 26 for determining whether or not the user has the authority to permit calling of the specific operation process.

Such a processing unit 20 can be realized by, for example, a microprocessor (MPU), a CPU, an LSI, a gate array such as an FPGA or an ASIC, hardware or software such as a DSP, or a mixture thereof. In addition, each component does not necessarily have the same configuration as that shown in FIG. 1, and its function is substantially the same, and one component has the functions of a plurality of elements in the configuration shown in FIG. Are included in the present invention.
(Storage unit 40)

  The storage unit 40 includes a component setting storage unit 41, a specific operation setting storage unit 42, and a page setting storage unit 43. Among these, the component setting storage unit 41 is a member for storing a specific function that can be assigned to each functional component arranged on the display screen. The specific action setting storage unit 42 stores specific assignable specific action processes that are executed when a touch operation is performed on a non-part area other than the part area where the functional parts are arranged on the display screen. It is a member for doing. Furthermore, the page setting storage unit 43 is a member for storing setting contents in units of pages, with one screen displayed on the display screen on which one or more functional components are arranged as a page.

The display-side communication unit 50 is a member for connecting to an external device and performing data communication. For example, a communication interface for connecting a PLC or a computer PC is applicable. For such a communication interface, a standardized connector or communication protocol can be adopted, or a communication interface with a specially designed specification can be used. Note that the connection form of communication is not limited to physical connection via a cable or the like, and may be wireless connection such as radio waves, electromagnetic waves, infrared rays, and optical communication.
(Programmable display design device)

  A design device 60 can be connected to the programmable display 100 to design the programmable display 100, for example, layout of functional parts displayed on the display screen, assignment of functions, and the like. Such a programmable display design device 60 is configured by dedicated hardware, and a programmable display design device is implemented by installing a programmable display design program in a general-purpose computer. You can also. In the example of FIG. 1, the latter configuration is adopted.

  The configuration of such a programmable display device design apparatus 60 is shown in FIG. A programmable display device design apparatus 60 shown in this figure includes a design side communication unit 61 and a drawing unit 62.

  The design-side communication unit 61 is connected to the display-side communication unit 50 of the programmable display 100 and performs data communication. Here, the setting data designed by the programmable display device design apparatus 60 is transferred to the programmable display 100 side, and the setting of the programmable display 100 is updated.

  The drawing unit 62 includes a parts allocation unit 63 and a non-parts area motion allocation unit 64. Further, a security level setting unit 65 for setting an accessible security level may be provided. As an example of the drawing unit 62, a user interface screen of a design program for a programmable display is shown in FIG. As shown in this figure, the arrangement of functional parts and the function to be assigned are set for each page.

  The component allocating unit 63 is a member that is arranged on the display screen of the programmable display 100 on which functional components can be arranged, and further assigns a specific function to the functional components.

  The non-component area motion allocating unit 64 has one or more functional components arranged on the display screen, and a component area where the functional component is arranged and a non-component area where the functional component is not arranged, When the non-component area is touched by the touch detection unit 10 capable of detecting a touch operation on the display screen, it is a member for assigning a specific specific operation process to be executed.

  Using such a drawing unit 62, the design of the functional component is designated, a function is assigned to the functional component, and the functional component is transferred to the programmable display device 100. Here, an example of a graphical user interface screen of the operation program of the programmable display is shown in FIG. 3, FIG. 4, and FIG. In this example, functional parts that can be touch-operated on the screen of FIG. 3 are arranged on the display screen, and the operation content when the touch operation is detected on the screen of FIG. 4 is set, and is set on the screen of FIG. The contents are transferred from the programmable display design device 60 to the programmable display 100 side.

  In this way, each functional component is set, and the programmable display is designed to be usable. Here, a configuration in which a specific screen or function, for example, a system setting screen of a programmable display is called by a hidden command has been conventionally employed. Such a screen is often set to touch a special position or perform a specific operation so that a general user does not accidentally call it during normal use. 3cm from the top, and 2cm from the top for 5 seconds or longer). Since it is necessary to remember such a complicated operation, the learning cost increases and there is a risk of forgetting it.

  Further, since such a complicated calling operation is required, there is a problem that it is inconvenient when debugging the device. For example, during debugging work at the start-up of a programmable system, you may frequently want to go back and forth between pages or execute debugging functions, which requires troublesome operations each time you call a function. Deteriorate work efficiency.

  As a countermeasure, it may be possible to prepare a debugging switch separately at the time of design. In this case, however, it takes time to set the debugging switch, and during debugging, it is necessary to change the page screen. There is also a risk of accidentally changing or deleting necessary functions. Furthermore, since the debugging switch is temporarily set, it is necessary to finally delete it. In some cases, there is a risk that the debugging switch may be forgotten to be turned off or a necessary switch may be accidentally deleted. In addition, there is a disadvantage that a space for placing a debug switch is required, and an area available on the display screen is reduced accordingly.

Furthermore, in order to set a function that can be used in common on all pages, conventionally, components must be individually arranged on each page. Alternatively, it has to be arranged on a window that is displayed as a pop-up separately from the page so that the window can be called from each screen.
(Specific operation processing)

In this embodiment, a specific specific operation process can be assigned to an area where functional components that can be touch-operated are not arranged. For example, in the display screen of FIG. 6, the specific operation process can be called for the non-component area NPA excluding the component area where the touchable functional component GP is arranged, and the shaded area in the figure.
(ON / OFF of calling function for specific operation processing)

For the setting of the specific operation process, it is sufficient to assign the type and function of the touch operation to the touch operation on the non-component area NPA where the touchable functional component GP is not arranged on the display screen. As described later, the calling function for the specific operation process can be invalidated. In this case, even when a touch operation on the non-component area NPA is detected, the specific operation process is not executed.
(Type of call touch operation)

  In addition, the touch operation for calling the specific operation process can be limited to a specific type of touch operation. The type of touch operation is detected by the touch determination unit 12. Examples of touch operations include normal touch, long press, flick, and pinch-in. For example, by configuring the specific operation process to be called by a long press, the specific operation process is invoked when the user accidentally touches an area without the functional component GP in an ordinary operation and tries to touch the functional component GP. Can be avoided.

Note that the type of touch operation for calling the specific operation process may be fixed. For example, by fixing the touch operation to a long press, it is possible to omit the process of specifying the type of the touch operation.
(Type of specific action process)

Examples of functions that can be executed as the specific operation processing include system menu display, page switching processing, and functions set in advance by the user.
(System menu display)

The system menu displays a menu that can execute a plurality of functions. Functions that can be executed from the system menu include a system mode function, a page thumbnail function, a device monitor function, and the like. The system mode function is a function for calling a system setting screen of the programmable display. The page thumbnail function is a function for displaying a thumbnail corresponding to a page, selecting any one thumbnail, and displaying a page corresponding to the thumbnail. The device monitor function is a function for referring to the device memory of the PLC connected to the programmable display.
(Page switching process)

  The page switching process is a process that allows a plurality of pages to be reduced and displayed as a list, and can be switched to a page corresponding to the reduced page by selecting an arbitrary reduced page.

  Furthermore, it is possible to call a function set in advance by the user. For example, it is possible to register a page frequently used by the user and to call it immediately in a specific operation process.

  Thus, it can be set so that any one of a plurality of specific operation processes can be called. Alternatively, a plurality of specific operation processes may be called to select one of them. Alternatively, different touch operations can be assigned to a plurality of specific operation processes. For example, the system menu can be displayed for a long-press touch operation, and the page switching process can be set for a normal touch operation.

  The above-described problem can be solved by enabling the calling of the specific operation process. In other words, in order to execute the set function, it is not confused with a conventional touch switch in which it is necessary to remember where the target touchable component is. In addition, the touch area for calling the specific operation process is not a specific place, but all places where there is no touch part, so that it is relatively easy to remember. In addition, since a very wide range can be secured for calling the specific operation process, the operation becomes easy.

In addition, there has conventionally been a problem that it is difficult to use when debugging a device. However, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to easily set a function that can be used in common regardless of the displayed page. A good function call is realized. In addition, when a programmable display or a programmable system using the programmable display is shipped, it is easy to turn off functions that span all pages at once. In other words, it is not necessary to turn off the debug switch parts one by one. In addition, even for the problem of setting a function that can be used in common for all pages, according to the present embodiment, the function for calling a specific operation process is enabled without placing a component on each page. All you need to do is use it extremely conveniently.
(Programmable display operation method)

  Next, an operation method of such a programmable display, in particular, a procedure for calling a specific operation process will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. First, in step S701, an input of a touch operation is received. Specifically, the touch operation is detected by the touch detection unit 10 in FIG. In step S702, the type of touch operation is determined. Here, the touch determination unit 12 determines what touch operation has been performed.

In step S703, it is determined whether the target of the touch operation is a functional component. If it is a functional component, the process proceeds to step S704, and the process assigned to this functional component is executed. On the other hand, if it is not a functional component, that is, if it is a touch operation on a non-component area, the process proceeds to step S705 to determine whether or not the operation on the non-component area is valid. The process ends without doing anything. On the other hand, if it is valid, processing set in accordance with the type of touch operation is executed in step S707. For example, the specific action process is called by a long press of the touch operation. As described above, the set processing is executed by the programmable display according to the position and type of the touch operation.
(Embodiment 1: Page switching mode + system menu)

  Next, an example of a display screen for calling a specific operation process by programmable display will be described with reference to FIGS. In the first embodiment, as the specific operation process, an aspect in which both the display of the system menu 70 and the page switching process can be called is adopted.

  First, an example of a display screen of a programmable display is shown in FIG. In this example, “main menu” is shown as the display screen. At the top center of the screen, “Main Menu” is displayed as the title character of the display screen. In addition, six buttons of “monitoring screen”, “production management”, “startup screen”, “operation panel”, “abnormality history”, and “screen list” are arranged as functional components that can be touch-operated.

In this state, the user touches a non-component area NPA in which no functional component is provided. Here, the touch detection unit 10 and the touch determination unit 12 determine that the call operation of the specific operation process is instructed by long pressing for 0.5 seconds, and the screen transitions to the screen of FIG. 9. In FIG. 9, the system menu 70 is displayed and the page switching process is displayed.
(Animation display)

  The transition from the screen of FIG. 8 to FIG. 9 may be configured to change suddenly, or may be configured to gradually change the screen by animation. For example, the system menu 70 gradually appears from an empty state. As an example, the system menu 70 appears from a transparent state so as to gradually become opaque. Alternatively, the small system menu 70 may appear so as to gradually increase from a dot shape. On the other hand, with respect to the display of the page switching process, the screen of FIG. 8 gradually becomes dark and the reduced page MP shown in FIG. 9 gradually appears. For example, the currently displayed display screen is gradually reduced to become a reduced page MP, and the adjacent reduced page MP similarly appears to be gradually reduced from the size of the original display screen. In this way, when the screen transitions, instead of simply switching the screen, the screen transition state is displayed as an animation so that the screen is gradually changed from the previous screen to the screen after the transition. Can be reassured by informing you that has been switched.

  From the screen of FIG. 9, the user can execute either selection of the system menu 70 or page switching processing. For example, when executing the page switching process, a series of reduced page MP columns can be scrolled by touching any reduced page MP from the screen of FIG. 9 and sliding the finger as it is. Moreover, it is also possible to scroll in the flicked direction by flicking a finger. As a result, as shown in FIG. 10, the system menu 70 disappears and the reduced page row is scrolled so that each reduced page MP is displayed. In this state, the user can select any one of the reduced pages MP. For example, when the flicking direction is changed, the scrolling direction can be switched. In addition, the scroll begins to flow out vigorously by the flick operation, the scroll speed gradually decreases, and eventually stops. In this way, the user's operational feeling can be enhanced by performing an operation in which inertia works. Further, by tapping a series of reduced page rows that are being scrolled, the scrolling can be forcibly stopped. Further, when the first and last reduced pages located at the end of the reduced page row are reached, they may be moved in opposite directions so as to bounce. Note that the system menu is not displayed while the reduced page row is scrolled by a flick operation or a slide operation. Since the user who is trying to perform the scroll operation can be regarded as not thinking of operating the system menu, the display screen can be simplified without any problem even if the system menu is not displayed.

In this way, the user selects a desired page while scrolling the reduced page row. Then, as shown in FIG. 11, by tapping the reduced page MP selected by the user, the screen is switched to a display screen corresponding to the selected reduced page MP as shown in FIG. This display switching may be animation display as well. That is, the display is switched to the normal display screen so that the reduced page MP is gradually enlarged.
(Details of page switching process)

Thus, on the display screen for page switching processing (page switching screen 80), reduced pages MP that are slightly smaller than the normal display screen are displayed in a row. Here, the reduced page MP is displayed in a band shape. Only a part of a series of reduced page columns is displayed on the display screen and can be scrolled. Note that the scroll direction is the left-right direction in the examples of FIGS. However, the reduced page row displayed on the page switching screen 80 is not limited to the configuration in which the reduced page row is displayed in one row in the horizontal direction, and may be, for example, two rows. Moreover, you may comprise so that it may scroll vertically. Further, it may be moved obliquely, three-dimensional flip switching, or carousel display may be used. As shown in FIG. 13, the carousel display is a mode in which a series of reduced pages MP is arranged in a loop and rotated to select a desired reduced page MP. The loop shape may be arranged vertically or diagonally in addition to being arranged horizontally.
(Details of carousel display)

  Here, details of the carousel display will be described. In the example in which the page switching screen 80 is displayed as a carousel, as shown in FIG. 14, when the non-part area NPA on the page is long pressed, the screen is switched to the carousel display through an animation that gradually zooms out. In the carousel display, as shown in FIG. 15, the closer to the center of the screen, the smaller the reduced page MP is displayed, and the farther from the center, the smaller the page is displayed. Similarly, the reduced page MP that is closer to the center of the screen is displayed so that it is brighter and darker as it is farther away. Further, as shown in FIG. 16, when the finger slides, each reduced page MP slides following the finger. At this time, the enlargement ratio and brightness of the reduced page MP are also changed in real time. Further, when the touched finger is released as shown in FIG. 17, when there is no reduced page MP at the center of the display screen, the reduced page MP of the reduced page MP is automatically set so that the nearby reduced page MP returns to the center of the screen. Position correction is performed so that any reduced page MP is displayed in the center in a stationary state. At this time, the moving speed when returning the reduced page MP to the center is set to a speed at which the initial speed is high and the speed gradually decreases. Also, as shown in FIG. 18, when the end is reached while being scrolled, the reduced page MP at the end bounces back and stops until it has moved slightly from the center of the screen. When the finger is released here, the nearby reduced page MP returns to the center of the screen as described above. The same operation is performed when the opposite end is reached.

  Further, the page number may be displayed on the reduced page. For example, in the example of FIG. 19, “current page / total number of pages” is displayed as page information 81 at the bottom of the display screen. Here, a state is shown in which the seventh page of the total 22 pages is displayed. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 20, page turning switches 82 may be displayed on the left and right of the display screen. When this page turning switch 82 is touched, one page can be turned.

Moreover, when the page is put together for every group in the design program of a programmable display, it can be moved between groups per group. When the hamburger icon at the upper left is pressed on the screen of FIG. 21, the entire screen slides to the right, and a list of group names is displayed on the left. If you select a group name, you can jump to that group. Here, the group name and the order follow the names defined by the design program of the programmable display as shown in FIG.
(Thumbnail display by pinch-in)

  Furthermore, the display mode of the page switching screen 80 may be changed depending on the touch type. For example, from the state of FIG. 8, as shown in FIG. 23, by performing a pinch-in touch operation in a non-component area NPA having no functional component, the thumbnail image TNI is displayed as a page thumbnail display screen 84 arranged in a tile shape. The page switching process may be performed. Since the pinch-in gesture has an image to be reduced, the gesture operation for reducing the display screen can remind the user of an operation for calling the reduced thumbnail image TNI screen, and can realize an operation feeling with less discomfort. .

  Further, the size of the reduced page MP is set to be slightly smaller than that of the display screen, that is, the normal page, so that a part of the adjacent reduced pages MP before and after the page transition screen is displayed on the display screen. This is preferable. In particular, it can be visually recognized on the display screen that the reduced pages MP are connected to each other on the front and rear sides, so that the user can visually understand that the reduced pages MP can be scrolled. In addition, such scroll display can be used sensuously, and a configuration for selecting a desired page from a plurality of candidates can be easily understood.

  Further, as the size of the reduced page MP is reduced, the number of reduced pages that can be displayed on one screen can be increased, and the list property is excellent. On the other hand, it becomes difficult to see details of the contents of the reduced page, so it is set appropriately according to the application.

The reduced page MP is a thumbnail image generated by reducing the original page. The thumbnail image of the reduced page MP is automatically generated by the design device 60. This saves the user from having to individually create thumbnail images and icons for reduced pages. However, you may comprise so that a user may produce these separately. By generating in advance by the design device 60, the reduced page MP can be drawn at a high speed when displayed, and the user can feel a smooth operation feeling. Note that the thumbnail image of the reduced page MP may be generated by the processing unit 20.
(Still image capture)

In addition, when the reduced page MP has an area in which the moving image is displayed in the original page, the moving image is displayed as a still image. Thereby, the reduced page can be simplified. The timing for capturing a still image is, for example, a point in time when shifting to page switching processing. In the example shown in FIG. 12, the speed monitor and the flow rate monitor are displayed in real time on the “monitoring screen” page. The reduced page MP of this page is captured at a predetermined timing as shown in FIG. Still image. For this reason, the display content may differ between the reduced page MP of FIG. 11 displayed on the page switching screen 80 and the actual page shown in FIG. However, it can be used without any problem for the purpose of displaying pages for the purpose of switching pages, and an advantage that processing with a light load can be obtained by replacing moving image processing with still images. In addition, the reduced page MP may be created before the time of shifting to the page switching process. As a result, the transition to the reduced page can be made smooth.
(Title character)

  Further, the title character of the page may be displayed on each reduced page MP. This makes it easier to grasp the contents of the reduced page MP. This is particularly suitable when a page does not include a title, or when a page with a similar design or layout is selected. In the example of FIGS. 10 and 11, a title display field 86 for displaying the title characters of the page is provided in the upper part of each reduced page MP. The title character can use the text used as the name of each page when the page is created by the design program of the programmable display device. For example, in the user interface screen of FIG. 2, the names of the screens displayed in the left folder pane are cited.

Furthermore, it is assumed that the background image displayed on the page switching screen 80 has reduced the brightness of the original page displayed before the transition to the page switching process. For example, as shown in the example of FIG. 9 and the like, the original page may be darkened, blurred, or grayed out as a background image. In this way, the image of the original page appears as a transparent background as the background of the page switching screen 80, and the background is displayed as if the image of the page switching screen 80 is overlaid on the original page. Now it is possible to convey to the user an image in which the normal operation of the programmable display is still performed.
(Return mechanism)

  Furthermore, a return mechanism is provided for returning to the normal display screen of the page that was displayed before the transition to the page switching process in the state of switching to the page switching screen 80. The return mechanism is a touch operation on the background image of the page switching screen 80 as shown in FIG. 24, for example. In this way, it is possible to easily return to the original page from the state where the specific operation process is called as shown in FIG. In general, in a programmable display device, a special mechanism for returning to the original screen, such as creating and arranging a dedicated button, is necessary. A recovery mechanism that can quickly and easily return to the original screen can be provided as a standard without preparing the above.

In this way, the user can switch to a page corresponding to the reduced page MP when the user selects an arbitrary reduced page MP from the reduced image sequence displayed on the page switching screen 80. In this way, the page switching process functions as a page switching mode for switching pages displayed on the programmable display, and a desired page can be selected and switched from a plurality of pages from the page switching screen 80. . In this way, it becomes easy to switch between pages, so that it is easy to switch to a display screen for necessary information during operation, and workability is improved during debugging.
(Details of system menu 70 display)

  Next, details of the display of the system menu 70 will be described. In the screen of FIG. 9, a system menu 70 is displayed together with a reduced page row for page switching processing. An enlarged view of the system menu 70 is shown in FIG. The system menu 70 includes a “system mode” button 71, a “page thumbnail” button 72, and a “device monitor” button 73. When a button of the system menu 70 is touched from the screen of FIG. 26, a function corresponding to the selected button is executed.

  For example, when the “system mode” button 71 is touched, as shown in FIG. 27, a system mode function for calling a system setting screen 74 of the programmable display is executed. From the system setting screen 74, the user can make various settings.

  When the “page thumbnail” button 72 is touched, as shown in FIG. 28, a page thumbnail function for displaying a page thumbnail display screen 84 displaying a list of thumbnails corresponding to each page is executed. If any one thumbnail is selected and touched from this screen, a page corresponding to the touched thumbnail is displayed.

  Further, when the “device monitor” button 73 is touched, the device monitor function is executed. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 29, a device monitor screen 75 that refers to the device memory of the PLC connected to the programmable display is displayed. Here, word devices are displayed.

  In the example of FIG. 25, the system menu 70 is displayed in a row in the horizontal direction. However, the system menu 70 is not limited to this configuration. For example, the system menu 70 is displayed in a vertical row as in the system menu 70B shown in FIG. Also good. Further, the number of buttons in the system menu is not limited to three, and may be four or more or less than two. When the number of buttons is large, it may be arranged in a plurality of rows as shown in a system menu 70C shown in FIG. 31, or may be arranged in a cross shape like a system menu 70D shown in FIG. In particular, the system menu 70 arranged in a cross shape is suitable for flick input. Further, the menu is not limited to a rectangular shape such as a straight line or a cross, but may be a curved menu. Alternatively, a system menu 70E arranged in a flower shape as shown in FIG. 33 may be prepared. Further, the system menu may be configured such that the sub menu is displayed around the touched button.

  As described above, when the system menu 70 is displayed, an animation can be displayed. For example, as shown in FIG. 34, it appears from a transparent state so as to become gradually opaque. Similarly, when the system menu disappears, contrary to the above, it can be erased by animation display so as to change from an opaque state to a transparent state.

  Furthermore, the system menu 70 may display icons with shadows. As a result, a three-dimensional effect such as floating is obtained.

  Further, when the button of the system menu 70 is touched, the state in which the button icon is depressed as shown in FIG. Confirm that the operation was accepted correctly.

  Furthermore, in the example of FIG. 9, the position at which the system menu 70 is displayed on the display screen is close to the position of the long-pressed finger. In other words, it is not the touched position. In this way, by displaying the system menu 70 by shifting it from the touched position, it is possible to avoid a situation where it is difficult to see a part of the system menu 70 behind the finger. Further, if the system menu 70 exists at the touched position, it is possible that the button is touched by mistake, and such an erroneous operation can be prevented. For example, as shown in FIG. 36, the system menu 70 is arranged at a position separated by a certain distance, with the touched position being the center of the system menu 70. In this way, erroneous operation can be prevented by not displaying the system menu 70 at the touched location. The reason why the system menu 70 is displayed in the upward direction of the finger is in consideration of visibility and ease of selection after the system menu 70 is displayed. For example, if the system menu 70 is displayed in the downward direction, it is hidden by the hand, and if it is displayed in the left-right direction, the distance to move the finger to select the system menu 70 becomes long. The display position of the system menu 70 is determined by the processing unit 20 in FIG.

Further, when the display position of the system menu 70 is determined by the procedure as described above, if the display position of the system menu 70 is outside the display screen, the display position is corrected. For example, as shown in FIG. 37, when it protrudes from the upper part of a display screen, it correct | amends to the lower part of a touch position. Further, when it protrudes from the left of the display screen, it is shifted to the right as shown in FIG. 38 so as not to protrude. Similarly, if it protrudes from the right of the display screen, it is shifted to the left so that it does not protrude. In this way, the display position of the system menu 70 is adjusted by the processing unit 20.
(Embodiment 2)

  In the above-described example, the example in which both the display of the system menu 70 and the page switching process are displayed by calling the specific operation process from the screen of FIG. 8 has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration. For example, the system menu 70 may be displayed or only the page switching process may be displayed by calling a specific operation process. As an example, FIGS. 39 to 42 show an embodiment 2 in which only the page switching process is displayed by calling a specific operation process. Here, the non-component area NPA having no functional component is touched from the display screen of FIG. 8 as in the first embodiment. For example, when the button is pressed for 0.5 second or longer, the page switching screen 80 is displayed as shown in FIG. On this screen, unlike FIG. 9, the system menu is not displayed. From the screen of FIG. 39, the reduced page MP can be switched or the reduced page sequence can be scrolled by sliding or flicking, as in FIG. As shown in FIG. 40, when the background image on the page switching screen 80 is touched, the page switching process is canceled and the original page is restored as shown in FIG.

  As described above, by executing only the page switching process as the specific operation process, a simple and easy-to-understand operation screen is provided. The page switching screen 80 may be configured to realize the same function as the system menu. For example, when the non-part area NPA is pressed for 0.5 second or longer from the screen of FIG. 8 to switch to the page switching screen 80 shown in FIG. 39, the finger is not released from the display screen for 3 seconds or longer. Keep doing. Then, once the finger is released and the upper right of the display screen is touched within one second as shown in FIG. 41, the system mode function is executed, and the system setting screen 74 of the programmable display shown in FIG. 27 is displayed. . As a result, the same processing as touching the “system mode” button 71 of the system menu can be performed. Similarly, by long-pressing the non-part area NPA from the screen of FIG. 8 for 0.5 seconds or more, the screen changes to the page switching screen 80 of FIG. 39. If the lower right of the display screen is touched within one second as shown in FIG. 42, the device monitor function is executed, and the device monitor screen 75 shown in FIG. 29 is displayed. As a result, the same function as touching the “device monitor” button 73 in the system menu can be realized. In addition, instead of the operation of touching the upper right or lower right of the display screen within 1 second, keep pressing and holding the finger for 3 seconds or more. You may slide to the upper right or lower right of the display screen. Further, these touch operations, touch types (gesture operations), and the like are examples, and it is needless to say that other touch operations, touch types, touch positions, and the like can be appropriately changed.

The same function as the “page thumbnail” button 72 of the system menu can be realized on the page switching screen 80. Alternatively, it is possible to display a screen as shown in FIG. 28 by the pinch-in operation as described above. In this way, it is possible to realize a function similar to the system menu while having a configuration in which only the page switching process is called as the specific operation process.
(Embodiment 3)

Similarly, only the system menu 70 can be displayed as the specific operation process. Such an example is shown in FIGS. 43 to 45 as a third embodiment. In this example, a non-component area NPA having no functional component is touched from the display screen of FIG. 8 as in the first embodiment. For example, by pressing and holding for 0.5 second or longer, the screen switches to the system menu display screen as shown in FIG. On this screen, unlike FIG. 9 and FIG. 39, the page switching screen is not displayed, and the system menu 70 is displayed while reducing the brightness so that the original display screen can be seen through the back side. From the display screen of FIG. 43, by pressing each button of the system menu 70 as shown in FIG. 44, the corresponding function can be executed. The example of FIG. 44 shows an example in which the “system mode” button 71 is pressed, and the system setting screen 74 shown in FIG. 27 is called up as described above. Also, as shown in FIG. 45, by touching a background image on the system menu display screen, that is, an area other than the system menu 70, the display of the system menu 70 is canceled and the display screen of FIG. 8 can be returned.
(Setting method)

  The setting of the specific operation processing as described above is performed by a design device or a design program for a programmable display. An example of a user interface screen of such a programmable display design program is shown in FIG. In this screen, setting items are selected in the left folder pane, and setting contents are defined from the right screen. Here, as the “gesture” setting item, “the operation when the touch switch is pressed for a long time”, the check items of “transition to page switching mode” and “display system menu” are turned ON / OFF It is possible. In general, the user often starts debugging work after creating a screen of a page. Therefore, when a new project is created, the specific operation processing is enabled by default.

  In this example, the setting is not a setting for each page but a common setting. However, it can be set individually for each page, or common settings and individual settings can be combined.

  In addition, a custom menu customized by the user may be displayed instead of the fixed system menu. For example, the menu shape and what functions are assigned to each menu are set. For example, in the example of FIG. 46 described above, “System menu” and “Custom menu” are selected with radio buttons as shown in FIG. 47 under the “Action when long-pressing a place without a touch switch” setting field. In addition, a “detailed setting” button is provided to enable detailed setting. An example of such a custom menu is shown in FIG. Here, the shape of the system menu can be selected from a drop-down list as a cross type, a horizontal single row type, a vertical single row type, or the like. Furthermore, it is possible to individually specify the function to be assigned to each button arranged vertically and horizontally.

  Furthermore, the operation for calling the specific operation process is not limited to the long press operation described above, and may be another touch operation such as a double tap. It is also possible to set to call different specific operation processes for different touch operations. As an example, FIG. 49 shows an example of a screen for setting for a double tap operation. From this screen, it is possible to turn ON / OFF calling of “transition to page switching mode” and “display menu” in the “operation when double-tapping a place where there is no touch switch” column. Similarly, it is possible to make detailed settings for custom menus as described above.

Further, even in a configuration in which the specific action process is called by long press, the long press time may be changed. An example of such a setting screen is shown in FIG. In this example, the long press time is specified by a numerical value in the “long press time” setting field. In this example, it is set to 500 ms. For example, if you want to prevent accidental operation strongly, set it longer, and conversely, if you place importance on lightness during use, set it shorter.
(Conditions for calling processing for specific action processing)

Also, instead of simply calling a specific action process by simply pressing and holding, it is possible to set it to be effective only when a specific condition is satisfied. For example, it can be executed only when the designated PLC device is ON. An example of such a setting screen is shown in FIG. Here, the “device execution permission” setting field defines the device and its operating state. Thus, only when the designated device is in the designated operation state, the calling of the specific operation process is permitted.
(Security level setting)

  Or, there is a case where the operator does not want to change the setting and only the administrator can change the setting. In such a case, the security level can be set so as to determine whether or not to call the specific operation process according to the authority level (security level).

  The security level is set from the security level setting unit 65 shown in FIG. As an aspect of the security level setting unit 65, an example of the security level setting screen 65B is shown in FIG. In the security level setting screen 65B of FIG. 52, a security level that permits calling of the specific operation process is set in the “security level” setting field. In this example, “level 1” is set, and only the operator having the security level of level 1 or higher is allowed to call the specific operation process.

  The security level of the operator can be determined by the security determination unit of the programmable display shown in FIG. The security level determination unit 26 is a member for determining whether or not the user has the authority to permit calling of the specific operation process. For example, when the programmable display device is activated, a predetermined security level associated with the password can be obtained by the user inputting a preset password. Once acquired, the security level is maintained until it is subsequently updated. The security level determination unit 26 determines whether or not the acquired security level has reached the security level necessary for the operation set by the security level setting unit, and if so, calls the specific operation process. If it is permitted but not reached, the calling process of the specific operation process is not performed.

  In the example of FIG. 52, the example in which the security level is uniformly set for all pages has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this configuration, and the security level may be set for each page. An example of the setting screen 65C for setting the security level for each page in this way is shown in FIG. Thereby, it is possible to respond to a request that the system menu is not displayed on a specific page. In this way, the security level is set, and the specific operation process can be called only when the current security level is satisfied.

Similarly, whether or not to allow calling of the specific operation process may be set for each page regardless of the security level. For example, in the user interface screen of the programmable display design program shown in FIG. 2, an arbitrary screen is selected from the left folder pane, and in the screen attribute setting screen for setting the attributes of each screen as shown in FIG. Sets whether to allow calling of specific action processing. In the example of FIG. 54, if the check box in the “display on page thumbnail” setting column at the upper right of the screen is turned OFF, the page is excluded from being displayed as a reduced page or thumbnail during the page switching process. Thus, a specific page can be prevented from being displayed on the page switching screen. For example, when there are hundreds of pages, it is possible to maintain ease of selection during transition between pages by not including pages with low importance.
(Dead zone DZ)

  As described above, the touch operation for calling the specific operation process is a non-component area NPA having no functional component. Here, the configuration is not limited to the entire area where the functional parts are arranged from the display screen, and a fixed dead zone DZ may be provided around the functional parts GP. For example, as shown in FIG. 55, a dead zone DZ can be set around the touchable functional component GP with a certain width. In this way, when the user tries to operate the functional component GP, the system menu is displayed by touching the position where the functional component GP is accidentally removed, or vice versa. Thus, it is possible to avoid a situation where the functional component GP is touched, and to improve the certainty of the operation.

  The width of such a dead zone may be a fixed value or may be changed by a design program for a programmable display.

  In addition, it is preferable that the target for providing the dead zone is not a functional component but a functional component that can be touch-operated. This is because it is considered that an erroneous operation need not be taken into consideration for a functional component that does not accept a touch operation and is merely for display purposes.

  Moreover, you may comprise whether the call of a specific operation process is changeable by programmable display itself. Assuming debugging in the field and operation by the administrator, it is easy to use by enabling such settings to be changed even in an environment where there is no computer for operating the design program of the programmable display. It can be improved. As an example, FIG. 56 shows a setting screen for turning on / off calling of a specific operation process on a programmable display.

  Note that the communication between the programmable display and the PLC continues during the calling process of the specific operation process. This is to prevent PLC device logging and alarm occurrences from being missed.

  In the above example, the touch panel display screen is operated by the user touching the screen with a finger. However, the touch operation is not necessarily limited to the operation of physically touching the screen with the finger, and other operations that can be handled as touches are also possible. It may be operable. For example, a gesture using an operation that can be considered logically equivalent to a touch may be used. As an example, when a mouse is connected to the programmable display as an operation unit, a left click of the mouse performs an operation equivalent to a touch. In this case, the programmable display can be operated by a gesture operation with a mouse. Or as shown in FIG. 57, when accessing a programmable display from a remote terminal using a VNC server function, operation from a remote terminal may be sufficient. The VNC server function is a function that can monitor and operate the display screen of the programmable display from the remote terminal side. By using this function, mouse clicks and touch operations on the remote terminal side are directly handled as touch operations on the programmable display. Also, known methods can be used as appropriate for remote operation connection modes and protocols.

  With the above method, unlike the conventional configuration in which the system setting screen is called with a hidden command, a specific operation process can be easily performed by touching a non-part area, which is an area where no functional parts are arranged. Since it can be called, there is no need to remember a specific position or operation. In other words, in the past, a special position was touched to prevent a general user from inadvertently calling up the system setting screen, or a specific operation (for example, 3 cm from the right side of the screen and 2 cm from the top was long for 5 seconds or longer). No troublesome operations such as tapping) are required, and there is no need to remember such a complicated call operation. In particular, by designating an area other than the functional component as a touch area for calling a specific operation process, a very wide range can be used for calling the specific operation process. In general, since a function is often assigned to a functional component, theoretically, an empty area on the display screen can be secured in the widest range, and an operation for calling a specific operation process can be facilitated. In addition, it is not necessary for the user to specify a new area for invoking such specific operation processing, and all areas other than the area where the functional parts are placed can be specified. Therefore, a wide area can be specified without any setting effort. It can be secured as a touch area for calling operation processing. In addition, the area that calls the specific operation process is a non-part area where no functional parts are placed, so even if you change the placement position of a functional part or add or delete a functional part, Since the touch area for calling such a specific operation process is updated as needed, there is also an advantage that an area for calling the specific operation process can always be secured and updated regardless of the page setting change.

  In addition, in the conventional method, only a specific screen such as a system setting screen can be called with a hidden command, but according to the present embodiment, one or more functions are assigned to a specific operation process. Is possible. The allocation of the specific operation process is performed by the non-part region operation allocation unit 64.

  In the above example, the area where the specific operation process is called is all other than the part area where the functional parts are arranged. However, for example, a specific function (specific operation processing) is assigned to a member displayed on the entire display screen, for example, wallpaper, and for a functional component arranged on the wallpaper, an area where the functional component is arranged in an overlapping manner. As for, the same effect as described above can be obtained by setting the function assigned to the wallpaper to be invalidated. Similarly, transparent functional parts, not wallpaper, are placed on the entire display screen or most of them, and specific functions (specific operation processing) are assigned to these functional parts. In the case where functional parts are arranged, the same effect can be obtained even if the function of the stacked functional parts is prioritized. Or even if it is a functional component, if the function is not assigned, or if it is set not to execute the assigned function, the function will not be executed even if this functional component is touched. This is an area where execution by a touch operation is not set. For example, there are functional components arranged for display purposes only, such as displaying a clock, a counter, and a pilot lamp. As described above, the area where the functional parts that do not respond to the touch operation are arranged can be handled in the same manner as the non-part area.

  In this way, the area for calling the specific operation process is not necessarily limited to the presence or absence of the functional component, and the call to the specific operation process is performed at a position that does not prevent calling the function of the other functional component arranged on the display screen. A configuration for setting a touch area for the above is also included in one embodiment of the present invention.

  Programmable display of the present invention, programmable system including the same, programmable display design apparatus, programmable display design method, programmable display operation method, programmable display design program, computer-readable recording medium, and storage According to the apparatus which was made, it can utilize suitably as a programmable display connected to PLC which controls many apparatuses installed in a production line.

1000 ... Programmable system 100 ... Programmable display 10 ... Touch detection unit 12 ... Touch determination unit 14 ... Part determination unit 20 ... Processing unit 22 ... Part processing unit 24 ... Non-component processing unit 26 ... Security level determination unit 30 ... Display unit 40 ... storage unit 41 ... component setting storage unit 50 ... display side communication unit 60 ... design device 61 ... design side communication unit 62 ... drawing unit 63 ... component allocation unit 64 ... non-part area operation allocation unit 65 ... security level setting unit; 65B ... Security level setting screen; 65C ... Page unit security level setting screen 70, 70B, 70C, 70D, 70E ... System menu 71 ... "System mode" button 72 ... "Page thumbnail" button 73 ... "Device monitor" button 74 ... System setting screen 75 ... device monitor screen 80 ... page switching screen 81 Page information 82 ... page turning switches 84 ... page thumbnail display screen 86 ... title display column PLC ... programmable logic controller TGT ... target system GP ... functional component NPA ... non component regions MP ... reduced page TNI ... thumbnail DZ ... deadband

Claims (19)

A programmable display that can be connected to a programmable logic controller,
Component setting means for receiving settings of one or more functional components;
Includes a display screen, a display unit for displaying each function part disposed on the display screen in accordance with the setting of said component setting means,
A touch detection unit capable of detecting a touch operation on the display screen in a touch panel manner;
A component setting storage unit for storing a specific function assigned according to the setting of each functional component for each functional component arranged on the display screen;
A component determination unit for determining whether or not there is a functional component assigned a specific function at a position on the display screen instructed by the touch operation detected by the touch detection unit;
A component processing unit for calling and processing a specific function assigned to the functional component stored in the component setting storage unit according to the determination that the specific functional component is touch-operated by the component determination unit. When,
One page displayed on the display screen in which one or more functional parts are arranged as a page, a page setting storage unit for storing setting contents in units of pages,
And a non-component setting means for receiving settings for a specific operation process against the on the display screen, in the non-part region other than the functional components arranged component regions,
Wherein the non-component regions, the touch operation is performed when made, and the specific operation specific operation setting storage unit for storing a certain specific operation processes assigned to the non-component regions in accordance with the setting of the process ,
By the part detection unit, in accordance with the determination of the non-component regions is touched, stored in said specific operation setting storage unit, to call the particular specific operation processes assigned for the non-component regions, processes A non-component processing unit for
A programmable display comprising: The programmable display device according to claim 1,
As the specific operation process,
A system mode function for calling a system setting screen of the programmable display;
A page thumbnail function for displaying a thumbnail corresponding to the page and selecting any one thumbnail to display a page corresponding to the thumbnail;
A programmable display configured to display a system menu including at least one of a device monitor function for referring to a device memory of a programmable logic controller connected to the programmable display. The programmable display according to claim 1 or 2,
As the specific operation process,
A programmable display which is a page switching process in which a plurality of pages are reduced and displayed as a list, and an arbitrary reduced page can be selected to switch to a page corresponding to the reduced page. A programmable display according to claim 3, wherein
The page switching process is a programmable display in which reduced pages are displayed in a row, and only a part of a series of reduced page rows is displayed on the display screen, and is displayed in a scrollable manner. The programmable display according to claim 3 or 4,
The reduced display sequence displayed by the page switching process is a programmable display device that is displayed in a row in the horizontal direction. It is a programmable indicator as described in any one of Claims 3-5,
The reduced page is a programmable display that is automatically generated by reducing the screen image of each page. It is a programmable indicator as described in any one of Claims 3-6,
When the page switching process is selected, the page being displayed on the display screen is reduced as it is and displayed as a reduced page, and at least a reduced page corresponding to another page different from the displayed page is displayed. A programmable display configured to be partially displayed on the display screen. It is a programmable indicator as described in any one of Claims 3-7,
Each reduced page displayed in the page switching process is a programmable display in which title characters corresponding to the contents of the reduced page are displayed. The programmable display according to any one of claims 3 to 8,
When the reduced page has an area where a moving image is displayed in the original page, the reduced display is a programmable display configured to display the moving image as a still image. A programmable display according to any one of claims 3 to 9,
A programmable display in which the background image displayed in the page switching process is one in which the brightness of the page displayed before the transition to the page switching process is reduced. A programmable display device according to any one of claims 3-10,
A programmable display comprising a return mechanism for returning to the page displayed before the transition to the page switching process in the state switched to the page switching process. A programmable display according to claim 11,
The programmable display whose said return mechanism is touch operation to the background image of the said page switching process. It is a programmable indicator as described in any one of Claims 1-12,
A programmable display configured to gradually change the display screen by animation when the display screen is switched to the specific operation process. It is a programmable display as described in any one of Claims 1-13, Comprising: The programmable display further provided with the security level determination part for determining whether it has the authority which permits the call of a specific operation process. It is a programmable indicator as described in any one of Claims 1-14,
A programmable display, wherein the specific operation process is a common menu that can be executed from any page.   A programmable system comprising: a programmable logic controller; and a programmable display device according to any one of claims 1 to 15, which is connected to the programmable logic controller and capable of assigning a device to the programmable logic controller. A programmable display design device for setting a programmable display that can be connected to a programmable logic controller,
As the setting for one or more functional components, it sets the arrangement of the respective functional components on the display screen of the programmable display device, and the component allocation unit to which the respective functional components, assign specific functions,
Wherein on the display screen, as the setting of the specific operation processing for the non-component regions other than the functional components arranged component regions, and pairs to the non-component regions, non-component regions operation assignment to assign a particular specific operation process and parts,
In order to set a programmable display, means for transferring setting data including the setting of each functional component and the setting of the specific operation process to the programmable display,
A programmable display design device comprising: A programmable display design program connectable to a programmable logic controller,
As the setting for one or more functional components which are arranged on the display screen of the programmable display device, and set the arrangement of the respective functional components of the display screen, parts allocation against respective functional components, assign specific functions Function and
Wherein on the display screen, as the setting of the specific operation processing for the non-component regions other than the functional components arranged component regions, and pairs to the non-component regions, non-goods area operation assignment to assign a particular specific operation process function and,
In order to set a programmable display, a function of transferring setting data including the setting of each functional component and the setting of the specific operation process to the programmable display,
Programmable display design program that allows a computer to realize A computer-readable recording medium or a device storing the program according to claim 18 .