JP2003099584A - Computer program for supporting planning of new type vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a computer program for supporting planning of a new type vehicle by which a user easily constructs the merchandise property of the new type vehicle with respect to a vehicle of a comparing object by using objective information. SOLUTION: When information on the new type vehicle which has to be planned and the vehicle of the comparing object which the new type vehicle has to mark are set by the user, a server computer displays a graph by which the new type vehicle can easily be compared with the vehicle of the comparing object by the unit of the vehicle, the unit of the module or the unit of a performance item.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to the field of business support for users using computers.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in the manufacturing industry that manufactures mass-produced industrial products, when mass-producing and selling a new product, a planning department that generally plans the specifications of the new product based on market trends investigated in advance ( (Planning process), a design department (design process) that designs the planned new product, and a production technology department (mass production process) that designs and organizes the assembly line to actually mass-produce the designed new product. -In a plurality of departments, such as a production department (production process) that actually mass-produces a new product in the organized assembly line, a plurality of workers have been working in chronological order.

Among the fields of mass-produced industrial products, in the field of automobiles, in order to achieve both improvement of working environment for workers and efficient production, first, in the production department, industrial equipment for production equipment is used. The introduction of robots and various assembly support devices has been advanced from an early stage, and has reached the present.

Further, in accordance with the dramatic progress in the arithmetic processing capability accompanying the development of computer technology in recent years, the CAD (Computer
aided Design) / CAE (Computer aided Engineering)
/ By utilizing a design support system that uses CAM (Computer aided Manufacturing) software, vehicle design, structural analysis, performance evaluation, virtual simulation of production equipment, etc. are virtually performed on a computer, and in the past ( It became possible to improve the efficiency of various operations that were performed by creating mockups and prototype vehicles multiple times.

As the efficiency of the work of the design department utilizing such a design support system increases, it becomes easy for the person in charge of the production engineering department to be involved in the product design from the stage of designing a new vehicle. As a result, in the mass production process, which is a post-process, the person in charge of the production engineering department can use the highly accurate design information (three-dimensional CAD information, etc.) inferred by using the design support system to efficiently It has become possible to organize and build various production equipment.

[0006]

As described above, in the field of automobiles, the design department (design process) is as described above.
The so-called concurrent engineering by the production engineering department (mass production process) is realized at a relatively high level, and efficient work is performed.

In response to such a current situation, a plan (specification) of a new model vehicle, which is planned by a planning department (planning process) that is in charge of the preceding process, generally includes various types of targets targeted by the new model vehicle. A large amount of documents describe a huge amount of items such as performance, specifications, cost, and performance comparison with a benchmark vehicle (comparative vehicle). For this reason, the person in charge of the planning department needs to spend a lot of time to express the expected new vehicle product concept in the plan document.

In addition, the management team of a company that develops and sells automobiles (including so-called managers) develops and sells new vehicles based on the proposals for new vehicles conventionally proposed by the planning department. However, it is not easy for a veteran manager to read the essence of planning a new vehicle from such a large amount of documents.

[0009] In general, the design department is generally involved in mass production design of the new model vehicle until the plan form (specification) of the new model vehicle is officially approved by the management as described above in the planning department. There are many cases where things cannot be officially done. Therefore, when the design department receives the approved new vehicle plan from the planning department, it positions the plan as an "absolute work instruction (master)" and starts specific design. It will be.

However, the plan written by the design department from the planning department includes the imbalance between the expected cost and the target performance, the feasibility of the vehicle layout, or the target performance in order to enhance the marketability of the new vehicle. May contain conflicting specifications.

Alternatively, even when the design of each part in the design department is barely completed, at the manufacturing stage of the prototype vehicle in which the prototype department is also involved, for example, due to the fact that interference is discovered unexpectedly, The planning department and the design department sometimes have to make a realistic and large-scale review of the layout around the interference point, and it takes considerable time before the final prototype car can be manufactured. There is.

In these cases, not only is the timing of launching the new model vehicle on the market delayed, but the productability of the new model vehicle is based on the concept originally intended by the planning department (that is, the productability of the new model vehicle as a whole). Will come off,
Leading to a serious problem.

In order to prevent the above-mentioned problems from occurring, an environment where the planning department and the design department can perform concurrent engineering is prepared so that the concurrent design department and the production technology department have already performed.・ It is possible to realize a comprehensive concurrent engineering environment between all departments involved in the development of new vehicles with engineering, but the design department that must perform realistic vehicle design with excellent cost performance is It is not always preferable to be involved in the work of the planning department, which is entrusted with the construction of the product characteristics of the above, because of the nature of the automobile product.

Therefore, in view of the current situation described above,
In the planning department (planning process), when planning a new vehicle,
Needless to say that the product is highly productive, there is a strong demand for a plan document (plan information) that can be realized by each department in the post-process and has a high degree of completion, in the shortest possible time.

Also, if each person in charge of the planning department has sufficient practical knowledge in each department of the post-process, a plan document including specifications that are difficult to realize, conflicting specifications, etc. will not be drafted. Although avoided, it is not realistic to think that each person in charge of the planning department should be able to use practical knowledge in all departments. However, the vehicle manufacturer already has a large amount of information generated during the design and mass production of existing vehicles. Since such information includes know-how for vehicle production in each department, it is necessary to It should be effectively used for planning and design.

The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and a new model that allows a user to easily construct a commercial property of a new model vehicle with respect to a comparison target vehicle by using objective information. The purpose is to provide a computer program to support vehicle planning.

[0017]

In order to achieve the above object, a computer program for supporting the planning of a new-type vehicle according to the present invention has the following features.

That is, a computer program for supporting the planning of a new vehicle, an information storage function for storing information on a plurality of comparison target vehicles in a database (FIG. 3), and information on a new vehicle to be planned. And an input function that the user can set in the computer by comparing the comparison target vehicle to be marked by the new vehicle with the database (FIG. 18 (a)).
181) and information about the new model vehicle input by the input function to support the planning by the user, and information about the comparison target vehicle to be marked stored in the database. ,
An information providing function (FIG. 1) that calculates information that enables comparison between the new vehicle and the comparison target vehicle to be marked and provides the calculation result (FIGS. 13A and 13B) to the user.
It is characterized in that an operation instruction for realizing the second button 124) is provided.

Preferably, by the information storage function, the database stores specification information and performance information of each individual comparison target vehicle as information regarding the plurality of comparison target vehicles. The target specifications and performance of the new model vehicle can be input as the information on the new model vehicle (area 71 in FIG. 7A, area 72 in FIG. 7B), and the information providing function is By performing a calculation based on the specification information and performance information of the new model vehicle and the specification information and performance information of the comparison target vehicle to be marked, the new model vehicle and the comparison target vehicle to be marked are the same. It is advisable to display the graph on the base axis (FIG. 13A) in a comparable manner.

In addition, for example, by the information storage function, the database is standardized as information regarding the plurality of comparison target vehicles, for each of a plurality of modules forming each comparison target vehicle, indicating the performance of each module. The evaluation value is stored, and in the input function, the performance of the module that is desired to be compared with the module that constitutes the new model vehicle among the plurality of modules that configure the comparison target vehicle to be marked is stored. The evaluation value to be expressed can be changed from the default value to a value desired by the user (area 81 in FIG. 8A, area 85 in FIG. 8B), and the information providing function can change the evaluation value after the change. On the basis of,
It is advisable to compare the new model vehicle and the comparison target vehicle to be marked in module units.

Further, for example, by the information storage function, as information on the plurality of comparison target vehicles, performance information of a plurality of items representing the performance of each comparison target vehicle is a scale common to the items in the database. Is stored as a standardized evaluation value that is, the input function is a default value, which is an evaluation value representing the performance of the comparison target vehicle to be marked, which is desired to be compared with the target performance of the new model vehicle. Can be changed to a value desired by the user (area 72 in FIG. 7A), and the information providing function can compare the new model vehicle with the comparison target vehicle to be marked based on the changed evaluation value. May be compared for each performance item (FIG. 13B).

[0022]

According to the present invention described above, for the purpose of supporting the planning of a new model vehicle, the user can easily construct the product characteristics of the new model vehicle with respect to the comparison target vehicle by using the objective information. The provision of the computer program is realized.

That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the information about the new model vehicle to be planned and the comparison target vehicle to be marked by the new model vehicle are only set in the computer, and the comparison result is displayed to the user. Since it is provided, the user can easily build the commercial characteristics of the new vehicle with respect to the comparison target vehicle.

According to the second aspect of the invention, the user can objectively compare the performances of the new model vehicle to be planned and the comparison target vehicle on the graph of the same basic axis.

Further, according to the inventions of claims 3 and 4, the accuracy of the plan verification by utilizing the specification information and the performance information of the existing vehicle and the design department of the new vehicle to be planned are actually high. The degree of technological progress expected when designing and developing can be well balanced, and the user can compare the performance of the new model vehicle to be compared with the comparison target vehicle in module units (claim 3 ) Or in units of performance items (claim 4) in more detail and objectively.

[0026]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION An embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. First, the overall configuration of a computer network to which the present invention can be applied will be described.

[System Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a computer network to which the new vehicle planning support system according to the present embodiment can be applied.

In the figure, the vehicle manufacturers are roughly divided into a planning department, a design department, a design / analysis department, a production technology department, and an experimental research department as an example (the production department that actually assembles the vehicle is It is omitted because it is not a characteristic of the present embodiment).

Here, the main work of each department in this embodiment will be outlined. -Planning department: The person in charge of the planning department plans detailed specifications of the new vehicle based on market trends that have been investigated in advance, examines the adequacy (feasibility) of the plan, and then manages the plan by the vehicle manufacturer. Propose to the team.・ Design department: The person in charge of the design department, when the concept, performance, and layout of the new vehicle planned by the planning department is roughly decided, designs the shape of the new vehicle suitable for the concept. Design department: The person in charge of the design department is based on the plan document (digitalized plan information in this embodiment) of the new vehicle approved by the management, and the work support software such as CAD / CAE / CAM. Using the program, the concrete design (mass production design) of a new model vehicle is performed.・ Analysis department: The person in charge of the analysis department can perform various simulations on the design information of the new vehicle designed by the design department.
Virtual analysis using a software program verifies the performance and structure of the target new model vehicle. -Prototype department: The person in charge of the prototype department manufactures a prototype vehicle according to the design information designed by the design department. -Experimental Research Division: The person in charge of the experimental division conducts various experiments on the prototype vehicle manufactured by the prototype division using the experimental device 4
Etc. -Production engineering department: Organizes assembly lines and designs and builds production equipment so that new vehicles designed by the design department can be actually mass-produced.

The supplier delivers various parts and modules (units) to the vehicle manufacturer.

A user terminal 2 such as a personal computer is provided in each of the above-mentioned departments. Each user terminal 2 is connected by a communication network 5 so that information can be transmitted and received, and the communication network 5 is further connected to a user terminal 2 provided to an external supplier (supplier of parts etc.). Has been done.

Further, the database 3 stores various kinds of information about existing vehicles, and the communication network 5
The user terminals 2 of the respective departments can be accessed through (details will be described later).

The server computer 1 is under the control of, for example, the planning department, and various information stored in the database 3 should be referred to according to the operation of the user terminal 2 of the planning department. , Supports planning of new vehicles by the operator (person in charge of the planning department) (details will be described later).

Since the configuration of each device and the communication procedure itself for realizing the system configuration illustrated in FIG. 1 are common at present, detailed description of this embodiment will be omitted.

[Business Flow] Next, a characteristic business flow realized in the present embodiment using the system configuration described above will be described.

FIG. 2 is a diagram conceptually showing a work flow from the planning work of the new-type vehicle to the production engineering work in the present embodiment. In the present embodiment, the prototype vehicle is planned after the new-vehicle planning is started. As shown in the same figure, the work by each department after the production and vehicle evaluation test and the start of mass production is roughly divided into "first step" and "second step".

<First Step> First, in the first step, the person in charge of the planning department carries out the planning support processing by the server computer 1 in accordance with the product concept of the new model vehicle constructed based on the market trends investigated in advance. By using, the detailed specifications of the new model vehicle to be planned are planned and the adequacy (feasibility) of the plan is verified with reference to the information on the plurality of types of existing vehicles stored in the database 3. The validity verification work is recursively and repeatedly performed in the planning department while adjusting the setting items until it is determined that the verification result by the server computer 1 can be realized (details will be described later).

The person in charge of the design department uses the user terminal 2 when the concept, performance, and layout of the new vehicle planned by the planning department have been roughly gathered, and the three-dimensional shape of the new vehicle suitable for the concept. Start the design.

The planning information (data file group of digital information) of the new model vehicle, the feasibility of which is confirmed by the verification by the planning department, is proposed to the management team of the vehicle manufacturer.

The management of the vehicle manufacturer (including the so-called department manager) refers to the planning information of the new model vehicle proposed by the planning department, and if necessary, various information stored in the database 3 While referring to this, comprehensively judge whether or not to actually manufacture and sell the new model vehicle from the viewpoints of commerciality, schedule, budget, facilities and the like. When making a decision, if necessary, an improvement request is made to the planning department, and in that case, the planning department revises the planning information based on the improvement request and proposes the revised planning information to the management again. .

The planning information of the new model vehicle, which has been approved through such approval work, is positioned as an "absolute work instruction (master)", and the design department, the analysis department, etc., which is in charge of the post-process of the planning department, etc. Will be officially distributed to each department.

The person in charge of the design department uses the work support software program such as CAD / CAE / CAM based on the plan information received as the design instruction to specifically design the new vehicle (mass design). To start. Since the plan information includes or is associated with the information on the existing vehicles already stored in the database,
The design department can perform detailed design of a solid model or the like representing the three-dimensional shape of a new vehicle with a minimum of man-hours.

Then, the person in charge of the analysis department uses various simulation software programs at a time when the mass production design in the design department has progressed to a certain degree, and makes a virtual assumption about the performance and structure of the target new model vehicle. And perform accurate analysis and improve the accuracy of mass production design information.

In addition, the shape design of the new vehicle, which is generated by the design department, has been approved by the management of the vehicle manufacturer separately from the planning information of the new vehicle, and the shape design of the new vehicle has been approved. The shape information indicating "" is officially distributed to each department such as a prototype department which is a back-end process of the design department.

<Second Step> In the second step,
When the mass production design in the design department is completed, the person in charge of the prototype department manufactures the prototype car using the design information (three-dimensional CAD information, etc.) of the new model vehicle designed by the design department. On the manufactured prototype vehicle, various evaluation tests and collection of the test results are performed by a person in charge of the experimental research department. The test result of the evaluation test of the prototype vehicle is reflected in the design information of the mass-produced vehicle by the design department.

In addition, the person in charge of the production engineering department, when mass production design in the design department is completed, according to the design information (three-dimensional CAD information) of the new model vehicle designed by the design department, CAD / CAE / CAM, etc. Using the work support software program of, the simulation of production workability, work ability and work organization in the assembly line will be started.

At this time, the design / analysis department, the production technology department, and the prototype / experimental research department carry out work using various work support software programs and simulation software programs. Even if the design information initially passed to the post-process (production technology department) is provisional information in which detailed dimension design etc. (configuration) has not been performed, the post-process department concerned is It is possible to start the examination of the work in charge, and request improvement of the design department if necessary. When an improvement request is made, the design department revises the design information based on the improvement request,
The revised design information is handed over to each department in the subsequent process.

In this embodiment, the planning information provided by the planning department is highly accurate information based on various information regarding existing vehicles stored in the database 3 (details will be described later). Therefore, in the second step, as conceptually shown in FIG. 2, the mass production design is optimized by the collaboration of the design / analysis department, the production technology department, and the prototype / experiment research department. ,
During this period, the planning information previously generated by the planning department (first step) is not substantially changed.

Then, the design information of the new model vehicle optimized in the second step (three-dimensional CA such as solid model)
(D information) is treated as a product model for mass production, and in a subsequent process (production process) not shown in FIG. 2, actual mass production is started according to this final design information.

Incidentally, as a concrete means for realizing the collaboration in the second step, a general design technique method and a simulation technique are adopted, and the detailed description in this embodiment will be omitted.

Further, in the second step, various information such as mass production design information of the new type vehicle, various analysis results, vehicle evaluation test results, etc. is displayed in the design department, analysis department, prototype / experiment research department, and production technology department. Is registered in the database 3 by the database 3, and the database 3 is updated by the actual latest information. Further, in the database 3, information such as a delivery date, a production lot, a cost (amount) of the parts or modules to be delivered to the vehicle manufacturer is registered by the user terminal 2 arranged in an external supplier.

[Database 3] Next, information regarding a plurality of existing vehicles stored in the database 3 will be specifically described.

FIG. 3 is a diagram conceptually illustrating various information stored in the database 3 in this embodiment.

As shown in the figure, inside the database 3, there are: vehicle-level specification information and performance information regarding a plurality of types of existing vehicles; , Power train modules, chassis, etc.)
Specification information and performance information, -Specification information and performance information of multiple types of parts that make up each existing module, -Cost information of existing vehicles, existing modules, and existing parts-Existing vehicles, existing modules, And three-dimensional design information of existing parts (three-dimensional CAD such as solid model including three-dimensional shape and its dimension information and various attribute information)
Information) ・ Information about customers who purchased existing vehicles ・ Evaluation information such as opinions and complaints from customers who purchased existing vehicles ・ Benchmark vehicles that are sold by other manufacturers in the same industry (compared vehicles) Information (records) on various items such as vehicle-level specification information and performance information regarding the items are stored in a state of being associated with each other. These various types of information are stored at the vehicle level in order to make reference (reuse) efficient and easy.
It is managed in a systematically organized manner by three levels of classification: module level and component level. Here, the specifications are numerical information indicating dimensions and performance.

The database 3 in which the information on the above-mentioned various items is stored is SQL (Structured Query Language).
A general relational database (RDB) described by age etc. can be adopted.

In the present embodiment, various kinds of information about the vehicle stored in the database 3 are stored in the design department, the analysis department, the prototype / experiment research department, at the time of developing the vehicle, as described with reference to FIG. The information registered by the production technology department and the information registered by the external supplier, and the information about the customer and the evaluation information from the customer are registered by the store or the user. More specifically, the information set in the user terminal 2 arranged in each department or supplier is stored in the database 3 via the communication network 5. The database 3 is under the control of, for example, the server computer 1, and in that case, the operation of storing information received from the outside is
It is controlled by the server computer 1.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data format of each record stored in the database 3 in the present embodiment, which is the minimum unit among the three levels of classification of the vehicle level, the module level and the parts level. The information of a component level is illustrated.

That is, in the same figure, among a plurality of records relating to existing parts, as a record of a plurality of types of tires which have already been adopted or are applicable to a plurality of types of existing vehicles, the vehicle whose tire is adopted. "Genre" and "Segment", "Chassis system", "Placement regulation conditions",
"Production / delivery information" and "size" as specification information
And "standard", and evaluation points of "ride comfort" and "steering stability (operation stability)" as performance information are shown.

Here, the "genre" represents the use and exercise performance of the vehicle, and in the present embodiment, there are classifications such as sedan, wagon, coupe and the like. The “segment” represents a vehicle class including the size of the vehicle and the displacement of the engine (including the output of the electric motor in the vehicle that uses the electric motor), and in the present embodiment, is a symbol such as A, B, or C. expressed.

The "arrangement regulation condition" is information indicating the regulation condition of the arrangement place when arranging the existing parts at the layout examination stage described later. "Production / Delivery Information"
Is information such as a production lot of existing parts and a delivery date.

Among the above-mentioned information items for each tire shown in FIG. 4, "genre" and "segment" are information representing the vehicle level association with the existing vehicle in which the target tire is adopted. . "Chassis" is
It is information indicating the module level association with the existing module in which the target tire is adopted, and the model XX, the model YY, ... Are the identification information. still,
The vehicle type that identifies each existing vehicle may be used or used as the information indicating the vehicle level association.

Therefore, when referring to the database 3 at the module level, records of a plurality of types of existing parts constituting the existing module are extracted by using the identification information (model etc.) for identifying the existing module as a search key. It Further, when referring to the database 3 at the vehicle level, the identification information (genre and segment, or vehicle model) that identifies an existing vehicle is used as a search key, and a plurality of types of existing modules that make up the existing vehicle, and Records of a plurality of types of existing parts associated with the existing module are extracted.

In this embodiment, the evaluation unit of the performance information corresponds to the three-level management system of the database 3 and constitutes the vehicle level (entire vehicle), the module level configuring the vehicle, and one module. It is classified into three levels of parts. A standardized evaluation point (evaluation value), which is a common measure, is stored in advance in the performance information of various items belonging to those levels.
As an example, the most common 10 points (0 to 10 points)
It is represented by. In the present embodiment, a huge amount of information generated in designing / analyzing / vehicle evaluating / testing / manufacturing a plurality of types of existing vehicles is stored in the database 3 in such a system, and the information is tangibly and intangibly included. Effectively utilize the know-how of each department to make vehicles for planning new vehicles.

The server computer 1 executes the database 3 according to the software program stored in the memory when executing the new vehicle planning support.
Is accessible. In addition, the operator (user) of the user terminal 2 arranged in each department (including the supplier)
Is the database 3 within the preset allowable range.
Maintenance such as addition, update, or deletion of information stored in can be performed.

[Planning Support Processing for New Vehicle] Next,
The planning support process used by the person in charge of the planning department when planning a new vehicle will be specifically described. In this support process, the CPU (not shown) of the server computer 1 executes a program stored in advance in a storage medium (hard disk device or the like) in accordance with an operation of the operator at the user terminal 2, and thus the database described above is obtained. It is realized by referring to 3.

FIG. 26 is a flow chart showing an outline of the new vehicle planning support processing performed by the server computer 1 in the present embodiment, and the predetermined identification information (I
It is started by the person in charge of the planning department having D) logging in to the user terminal 2.

In the following description, the function of displaying various screens having predetermined input items on the display of the user terminal 2 by the server computer 1 and the information set in the input items of the displayed screens will be described. A general procedure is adopted for a function of acquiring from the user terminal 2 and a function of searching the database 3 with a predetermined search key to acquire necessary information, and detailed description thereof in the present embodiment will be omitted. .

In FIG. 26, step S1: FIG.
The menu screen shown in (a) is displayed on the display of the user terminal 2, and in this menu screen, when the software button (hereinafter, abbreviated as button) 53 of “reference to various data” is selected, the database is displayed. The various types of information stored in 3 are stored in the user terminal 2 during login.
(Hereinafter simply referred to as the user terminal 2).

When the "new plan" button 51 is selected on the menu screen shown in FIG. 5 (a), the menu screen shown in FIG. 5 (b) is displayed and "Planned vehicle file" is displayed. When the button 52 of “” is selected,
It is possible to select the planning information of the new vehicle already stored in the server computer 1, and when the selection is made, the menu screen shown in FIG. 5B is displayed.

Next, in the menu screen shown in FIG. 5B, when the "planning start" button 55 is selected, the process proceeds to step S3, which will be described later, and the "performance-specific vehicle plan search" button 56 is selected. When is selected, the process proceeds to step S4, which will be described later, and when the “limit upper / lower limit setting” button 58 is selected, the process proceeds to step S2, which will be described later. Also on this menu screen, when the “various data reference” button 57 is selected, various information stored in the database 3 can be referred to on the user terminal 2.

Step S2: When the "limit upper / lower limit setting" button 58 is selected on the menu screen shown in FIG. 5 (b), the limit upper / lower limit setting process is started. The menu screen shown in (a) is displayed.

On the displayed menu screen, the operator of the user terminal 2 sets the essential conditions that must be satisfied by the new vehicle when planning the new vehicle.

Area 61 of the menu screen shown in FIG.
Shows the items such as vehicle size, engine performance, material cost (integrated value), weight, and vehicle shape as essential conditions for the vehicle level of the new model vehicle that is going to make a plan. By selecting an item for which a condition is to be set, a sub-screen (not shown) for the condition setting screen for that item is expanded, and a corresponding essential condition is set.

If the operator wants to set not only the vehicle-level essential conditions for the new-type vehicle but also the module-level essential conditions for the new-type vehicle, the menu screen shown in FIG. When the “module level setting” button 63 is selected, FIG.
A menu screen as illustrated in (b) is displayed. In the area 62 illustrated in the figure, as an example of a module,
The state in which the member cost and weight of the suspension, the margin of interference with other parts, etc. are set by the operator is displayed.

At least when the operator of the user terminal 2 starts the planning of a new model vehicle, the operator performs the planning as described above before actually starting the planning by the planning process of step S3 or step S4. It is necessary to set indispensable conditions for the target new vehicle in step S2.

Step S3: In the new vehicle planning process based on the target performance and target specifications, the database 3 is created based on the target performance and target specifications related to the new model vehicle to be planned set by the operator via the user terminal 2. While referring to the information about existing vehicles stored in
A plan (specification) for a new vehicle that satisfies the target performance and target specifications is drafted (details will be described later with reference to FIG. 27). Until the operator of the user terminal 2 gets a plan for a new vehicle that matches the product concept that was planned in advance,
Server computer 1 adjusting input information appropriately
, The planning process is repeatedly executed.

Step S4: In the performance-specific vehicle planning process, the entire vehicle for realizing the performance-specific vehicle that satisfies the desired target performance set by the operator for a certain performance item among a plurality of performance items. A plan (specification) is drafted (details will be described later with reference to FIG. 28). The operator of the user terminal 2 adjusts the input information to the server computer 1 while appropriately adjusting the input information until a plan of a performance-specific vehicle that matches the product concept that has been planned in advance is obtained.
The planning process is repeatedly executed.

As described above, the planning support process shown in FIG. 26 is roughly classified into the regulation upper / lower limit setting process (step S
2), a new vehicle planning process (step S3) based on target performance and target specifications, and a performance-specific vehicle planning process (step S4). The operator appropriately changes the settings. However, desired processing can be repeated.

The processing of steps S3 and S4 outlined above will be described in detail below.

<Planning Process for New Vehicle Based on Target Performance and Target Specifications> Planning process for new vehicle based on target performance and target specifications will be described with reference to FIGS. 7 to 21 and FIG.

FIG. 27 is a flow chart showing the details of the new vehicle planning process (step S3) based on the target performance and target specifications in the new vehicle planning support process performed by the server computer 1 in this embodiment. is there.

In FIG. 18, step S21: FIG.
The menu screen shown in (a) is displayed, and in this step, the operator sets various verification conditions to be referred to when verifying whether or not the new model vehicle is established to the server computer 1 as necessary. Set for. FIG.
When the "association / priority evaluation standard / adjustment" button 183 is selected on the menu screen shown in (a), the menu screen shown in FIG. 18 (b) is displayed.

When the "association setting" button 184 is selected on the menu screen shown in FIG. 18 (b), a menu screen for association setting shown in FIG. 19 (a) is further displayed. , Regarding the multiple types of performance items displayed on this menu screen, the operator
The setting status of the association can be changed.

For example, when the "steering stability" button 191 is selected on the menu screen shown in FIG. 19 (a), the screen shown in FIG. 19 (b) is displayed. In the area 195 of this screen, regarding the “operation stability” which is the performance item selected as the setting state of the association at the time when the server computer 1 searches the database 3, the operation stability A plurality of performance items and specification items that control the nature are displayed. The plurality of performance items and specification items are information items included in each record stored in the database 3 at the vehicle level, the module level, and the component level as described above. The operator can edit a plurality of performance items and specification items displayed at this time by operating the “add / delete” button 196.

If the "priority setting" button 185 is selected on the menu screen shown in FIG. 18 (b) and the menu screen for priority setting shown in FIG. 20 (a) is displayed, this The operator can change the priority setting state for a plurality of types of performance items displayed in the area 201 of the menu screen.

Then, on the menu screen shown in FIG. 20 (a), for example, when the "steering stability" button is selected, a screen as shown in FIG. 20 (b) is displayed.

The area 205 of the screen illustrated in FIG.
In regard to the maneuverability that is the selected performance item, the setting status of the priority at the time when the server computer 1 searches the database 3 for each of a plurality of performance items and specification items that control the maneuverability. Is displayed, and the operator can change the displayed priority setting while allowing overlapping of priorities.

The priority order set on the setting screen shown in FIG. 20B is an allowance which the operator can set for each performance item and specification item on the setting screen shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. It is taken into consideration by the server computer 1 in the calculation of information indicating the possibility that a new vehicle will be established together with the value (allowable range). As a result, it is possible to reflect the user's wishes in the calculation of the verification result and to minimize the possibility that the verification result cannot be provided to the user (details will be described later).

Further, the detailed setting column 2 shown in FIG.
In 06, a gain (coefficient) for calculation of a verification result, which will be described later, is displayed for each of a plurality of performance items and specification items that control the maneuverability, and the operator can change the displayed gain.

As described above, in this embodiment, the performance information of each item stored in the database 3 is stored as an evaluation point (evaluation value), and the necessary items are calculated when the verification result is calculated. Performance information is treated as individual evaluation points. However, the degree of contribution of the performance information of each item to the performance of the entire vehicle varies greatly depending on the performance item. Therefore, in the present embodiment, the gain for calculating the verification result is set as shown in FIG.
An operator can adjust the screen illustrated in (b). Thus, for example, when the overall evaluation point TE of the maneuverability is calculated by adding the evaluation points En of a plurality of items that control the maneuverability as an example of the performance item, if the gain adjustment cannot be performed, TE = E1 + E2 + ...
Where + En, TE = K1 × E1 + K2 × E2 + ... + K using the gain Kn for the evaluation point En
Since a calculation of n × En can be performed, realistic verification can be performed.

When the "evaluation index setting" button 186 is selected on the setting screen shown in FIG. 18B, the evaluation index setting screen shown in FIG. 21 is further displayed, and this menu screen is displayed. It is possible to edit the numerical values of the evaluation points and the specification items of a plurality of performance items related to the existing parts or existing modules displayed in. In the example shown in FIG. 21, among existing parts registered in the database 3, a screen regarding a certain tire is displayed according to an operator's selection operation, and the left and right arrows included in the screen are operated by the operator. Accordingly, the evaluation index of another tire different from the displayed tire is displayed.

When the "Comparison target vehicle setting" button 181 is selected on the menu screen shown in FIG. 18A, the comparison target vehicle setting referred to from the database 3 at the time of plan verification is further performed. A selection screen (not shown) is displayed, and the operator can set a desired comparison target vehicle from among the plurality of types of comparison target vehicles displayed on the selection screen.

When the "production line" button 182 is selected on the menu screen shown in FIG. 18A, the operator uses it when the new model vehicle to be planned is actually produced (mass production). You can select the production line to be used. When the server computer 1 refers to the database 3 when executing a plan verification operation, the server computer 1 excludes existing modules and existing parts that cannot be realized on the production line selected by the operator from the reference range.

Step S22: In the area 71 of the setting screen shown in FIG. 7A, the operator inputs various target specifications that the new model vehicle to be planned wants to realize at the vehicle level. The items of the target specifications to be input in this step are the drive system, genre, segment, size (total length,
In addition to total width, total height), weight, etc., it is necessary to set items such as indoor length, indoor width, indoor height, minimum ground clearance, passengers, minimum turning radius, wheel base, and tread.

When inputting the target specifications into each item,
Set the target value and its allowable value (allowable range) to the target evaluation point (1
It is necessary to set it with 0 points. In this embodiment, when the operator does not set the allowable value or 0 (zero) is set, the server computer 1
Determines that the target value of the corresponding item has an absolute positioning for the operator, and in the calculation processing in step S26 described later, the target value is calculated as it is without giving an allowable range. To do. In this way, the user himself / herself can arbitrarily set the allowable range, so that the support processing by the uniform automatic calculation of the server computer 1 can be made flexible, and the convenience is improved.

Area 7 of the setting screen shown in FIG.
In 1, the operator can set the priority rank instead of specifically setting the desired allowable value for the target value. The priority rank is
Several types (A, B, C, etc.) are prepared in advance, and the operator can select any of the items. Within the server computer 1, a corresponding allowable range is preset for each priority rank. For example, the width of the allowable range in the + direction and the-direction around a certain target value is A <B. <C <... is set.

Step S23: In the area 72 of the setting screen shown in FIG. 7B, the operator inputs the target performances of a plurality of items which the new model vehicle to be planned wants to realize at the vehicle level. The items of the target performance to be input in this step include the maneuverability, the riding comfort, the power performance, the fuel consumption, and the like illustrated in FIG. When inputting the target performance to each item, the target number of points is set as a value representing the target performance to be realized in the new model vehicle according to the various performance items stored in the database 3 at the evaluation points. And its allowable value (allowable range)
Must be set at the target evaluation point (maximum 10 points), as in the case of FIG. 7A described above. In the target column, each target performance is ranked as a "leader" in the top class among a group of existing vehicles (including comparison target vehicles) or in an average class among a plurality of existing vehicle groups. Amangu "can be set. For example, "leader" has an evaluation score of approximately 8 points or higher, and "amangu" corresponds to an evaluation score of 6 to 7 points.

Step S24: When the "Detail input (module level)" button 73 is selected on the setting screen shown in FIG. 7B, the module level target performance setting screen shown in FIG. 8A is displayed. Is displayed. This screen shows the state when setting the target performance to the "chassis related" module among the multiple types of modules that make up the new model vehicle that is being planned, and the operator's input operation as the front and rear suspension By this, the existing parts having the evaluation points of 6.5 points stored in the database 3 are set as carryover parts, and the improvement target for the 6.5 evaluation points is set in the area 81 as +1 point for the maneuverability. , +0.5 point is input to the riding comfort (the carry-over component selecting operation will be described later as step S25).

However, at this time, the validity of the changed evaluation value is judged based on the degree of improvement of the past evaluation value of the corresponding item stored in the database 3, and is judged to be invalid. If so, the operator is notified to that effect. For example, in contrast to the fact that the evaluation score was improved by +0.5 points on average every time design updates were made several times in the past, the new model vehicle under planning
If an improvement target of +1.5 points is set for the current evaluation point, it is generally expected to be difficult to realize. In that case, the operator is notified of that fact. .

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the user (the person in charge of the planning department) sets an evaluation value that is difficult for the person in charge of the design department who is in charge of the post-process to realize, the fact is notified. Therefore, it is possible to prevent unplanned new vehicle plans from being planned. Therefore, by using the specification information and performance information of existing vehicles, the accuracy of the plan verification and the planning A good balance can be achieved with the degree of technological progress expected when the design department actually designs and develops the target new vehicle.

Here, the carry-over part is an existing part that is desired to be adopted in the new model vehicle to be planned, and includes a three-dimensional shape and its size information, and various attribute information. Three-dimensional CAD information such as a solid model to be stored is already stored in the database 3.
One functional unit composed of a plurality of carryover parts (existing parts) is called a carryover module.

Further, on the module-level target performance setting screen shown in FIG. 8A, the tire to be used with the front and rear suspensions is set by the operator's input operation. Furthermore, on this screen, 4W
The necessity of setting S, power steering, ABS, etc. can also be set.

In step S24, on the setting screen shown in FIG. 8B, the target performance setting for the power train is set as an important module for determining the dynamic performance of the new vehicle among the target items relating to the plurality of types of modules. It is possible. On this setting screen, the operator can select a desired one from a plurality of types of engines and transmissions registered in the database 3 as existing parts (existing modules).

The records of the existing parts (existing modules) stored in the database 3 are associated with the evaluation points of the performance items or the actual values of the specification items as information indicating the capability (actual ability) at the present time. Therefore, in this step, the operator, with respect to the desired existing parts (existing modules) such as the selected engine and transmission, the operator wants to improve the evaluation value in the design of the new model vehicle (existing parts etc.). 8) can be set in the area 85 of the setting screen shown in FIG. 8B. However, at this time, the validity of the changed evaluation value is judged based on the degree of improvement of the past evaluation value of the corresponding item stored in the database 3, and is judged to be invalid. Is notified to the operator. As a result, the accuracy of planning and verification is improved by using the specification information and performance information of existing vehicles, and the degree of technological progress expected when the design department actually designs and develops the new vehicles to be planned. And can be balanced.

Step S25: When setting the target performance at the module level in step S24, in the area 91 of the carry-over setting screen shown in FIG. 9, select an existing part or module desired to be adopted in the new model vehicle to be planned. can do. That is, when any existing vehicle registered in the database 3 is selected by the operator by operating the “select existing vehicle” button on this screen, the solid model or the like, which is the design information of the corresponding existing vehicle, is used. Then, the three-dimensional model of the existing vehicle is displayed on the display of the user terminal 2. The operator used a pointing device such as a mouse, for example, as an existing part or an existing module constituting the existing vehicle from the three-dimensional shape model displayed on the display, as illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11. By the selection operation, it can be selected as a carryover component or a carryover module to be adopted in a new model vehicle.

10 and 11 are views exemplifying a model of a three-dimensional shape of an existing vehicle in which a carryover setting has been made by the operator. In FIG. 10A and FIG. 11B, the parts where the carryover setting has not been made are hatched. The part that has been set is displayed in white.

The existing parts or modules selected on the carryover setting screen shown in FIG. 9 are assumed to be used as they are (design) even when they are adopted in the new model vehicle to be planned. In this system as well, although some manual setting of improvement targets is allowed as illustrated in FIG. 8A, in principle, performance information and specification information of the existing parts or modules for which carryover is set are Significant updates are restricted in the operation by the operator or in the calculation for the plan verification.

Step S26: When the vehicle-level and module-level target performance and target specifications of the new model vehicle to be planned are set in the above-mentioned steps, the operator uses the display screen shown in FIG. ,
You can plan and verify new vehicles. The verification result calculated based on the set target performance and target specifications is presented to the operator of the user terminal 2.

When the "planned vehicle image" button 121 is operated on the display screen shown in FIG. 12, the new model of the planning target is based on the target performance and the target specifications set in the above-mentioned steps. A graphic representing the vehicle is displayed on the display of the user terminal 2.

However, the shape of the vehicle displayed at this time does not have a design (shape design) peculiar to the vehicle, and the shape of the new vehicle set on the setting screen of FIG. For the shape of the occupied space that is largely determined by the genre and segment, the vehicle shape that reflects the size information set on the same setting screen becomes the base, and the base vehicle shape (simple body) is selected. It is a graphic to the extent that existing modules (including carryover modules) and existing parts that have been created are arranged. When arranging the existing modules and existing parts with respect to the base vehicle shape, the arrangement regulation conditions associated with the individual existing parts and existing modules, which are stored in the database 3 as illustrated in FIG. 4, are referred to. It

More specifically, the same body is determined by utilizing the three-dimensional design information of various existing modules for a simple body determined based on the genre, segment, and size of the vehicle set previously. The main components of the vehicle are automatically arranged in the coordinate space according to the arrangement regulation conditions stored in a state associated with the database 3. At this time, 3 of various existing modules
The dimensional design information is not used as it is, but for example, in order to arrange and move individual components at the level of a three-dimensional box such as a cube or a cylinder, the external dimensions (length, width, height) included in the design information. ) And the information of the position of the center of gravity are used, and the detailed design shape of each part expressed as a solid model and the attribute information are not used.

However, when an existing module is used as a carry-over module, it is premised that the existing model is used as it is even in the new model vehicle to be planned, so the three-dimensional design information of the existing module is used as it is. It is advisable to construct the vehicle so that a new vehicle with high economic efficiency can be easily planned by using it and restricting the layout change.

The components automatically arranged in the simple body are the main components such as tires, suspension modules, engine modules, steering wheels, seats, instrument panels, fuel tanks, etc., and the arrangement regulation conditions associated with them. According to the above, it is automatically arranged with respect to the simple body.

For example, when automatically arranging with respect to a simple body, in the case of a tire, the arrangement regulation condition is that the center of gravity of the tire is located at the center position of the tire house, and in the case of an engine module, the n-th front member. It is a placement restriction condition that it is placed at a position from ** mm to the back. The graphic displayed in this case is for the operator who is the person in charge of the planning department to judge the adequacy of the project. Therefore, if the layout regulation conditions can be satisfied, the existing modules and The placement is done with some allowance for existing components to interfere.

As a result, on the display screen for the user to verify the feasibility of the minimum required layout, the individual existing modules and / or existing parts are arranged so that they can be interfered with each other. The processing required for component layout can be speeded up. In addition, the operator can easily verify the feasibility of the physical layout of the new vehicle.

On the display screen shown in FIG. 12, when the button 123 for "validation of planned vehicle" is operated, the menu screen shown in FIG. 14 (a) is displayed. This menu screen displays a number of items that can be evaluated for adequacy with regard to the new model vehicle that is being planned. Those in which all the originals are set are displayed in white, and those in which some information is insufficiently set are displayed in hatching to notify the operator to that effect.

For items for which information setting is insufficient, when the operator operates the “to data input screen” button 142, the operator returns to the setting screens described in the above steps, The desired values can be entered individually.

As for the items for which information setting is insufficient, when the operator operates the button 143 of “verify by sample input” on the menu screen shown in FIG. 14A, FIG. ), The target performance and target specifications necessary for the validity evaluation of the item are selected by selecting the performance information and specification information about the existing vehicle stored in the database 3 as a sample. The settings can be collectively set inside the computer 1, and the input operation by the user can be simplified.

Further, in the screen shown in FIG. 14B, when the "detailed individual setting" button is operated by the operator, performance information and specification information collectively set for a certain item as described above. Is displayed in a list, and the operator can individually adjust (change) the information of each item displayed in the list.

As described above, in the present embodiment, when the operator sets the target specifications and the target performance of the new model vehicle in the server computer 1, as the information to be input to each item, the definite handling is desired. It is possible to easily select from information, uncertain information that requires uncertain handling, or specification information and performance information of any existing vehicle stored in the database 3, so the selected information is used. Then, even if the individual confirmed information is not available, the planning and verification of the new model vehicle can be provisionally performed, and the rational planning work can be realized.

On the other hand, the items displayed in white in the area 141 of the menu screen shown in FIG.
When the target performance and the target specifications are all set for the predetermined necessary items, an expected evaluation value based on the target performance and the target specifications is calculated, and the user terminal 2 is responsive to the calculated result. Verification results are provided.

In step S26, the server computer 1 is satisfied as much as possible with the target specifications and target performance of each item set by the operator on the setting screens shown in FIGS. 7 (a) and 7 (b). Search for verification results. In the calculation, the allowable value (or the priority rank set in place of the allowable value) set corresponding to the target specifications and the target performance of each item, and the respective values set by the operator on the setting screen shown in FIG. The item's priority is taken into account.

That is, in this step, with the target specifications and / or target performances set by the operator having a permissible range set, a new model satisfying the target specifications and / or performances within the permissible range. Whether the vehicle is established or not is calculated based on the information of each item stored in the database 3.

More specifically, in the present embodiment, when the server computer 1 does not plan a new vehicle in the state where the set target specifications and / or the target points of the target performance remain unchanged, for example, By appropriately increasing or decreasing the target value used for the calculation within the allowable range around the target point and performing the calculation, the possibility that the plan of the new vehicle will be established is sought. In this calculation, the setting change within the allowable range of the target point (target evaluation point) of each item is shown in FIG.
According to the priority of each item set on the setting screen of 0, it is automatically changed within the allowable value (allowable range) of each item set on the setting screen of FIGS. 7 (a) and 7 (b). It At this time, if the operator has set 0 (zero) or no allowable value in the allowable value column of the setting screen, the target evaluation value is not changed for the corresponding item, and the calculation is performed. Done.

Further, in step S26 of FIG. 7A, the priority rank is set in order to reduce the operation load on the user instead of individually setting the user-desired allowable value for each item on the setting screen. If the target rank is set instead of setting the allowable value of each item on the setting screen of FIG. 7B, the lower the priority rank or the target position set by the operator, A large permissible range may be automatically set for the corresponding information item.

However, when the plan verification is performed in step S26, as a major premise, the calculation is performed within the range where the upper and lower limit values set in step S1 are satisfied.

FIG. 15 is a diagram exemplifying the verification result of the new model vehicle to be planned when the item of “ride comfort” is selected in the area 141 of FIG. 14A.

In the example shown in FIG. 15 (a), the information indicating the possibility that a new model vehicle will be established is that the plan is not established and the degree thereof depending on the target performance and target specifications set by the operator in advance. Is a region 151
In the area 152 of the same figure, the calculated expected evaluation value for the target evaluation point is displayed in contrast, and the improvement measures for satisfying the target evaluation point and the improvement measures are shown. Guidance is given on the impact on other parts of the implementation. As described above, in the present embodiment, since information regarding the degree of achievement of the target specifications and / or the target performance set by the operator is provided together with the verification result,
The user can objectively recognize the validity of the items set by the user.

Further, the verification result displayed on the display screen includes information on the cost for realizing the new model vehicle to be planned. Since the information on this cost is calculated with high accuracy using the actual cost information stored in the database 3, the operator can easily plan a realistic new vehicle.

In the example shown in FIG. 15B, it is shown that, as the information indicating the possibility that a new type vehicle will be established, a plan is established based on the target performance and target specifications set by the operator in advance. In 155, in order to inform the degree of achievement with respect to the target evaluation value, the calculated expected evaluation value with respect to the target evaluation point is displayed in contrast, and in the area 156,
Guidance is provided on the degree of influence on other performance items when the target evaluation point is satisfied. This makes it easy and speedy to plan a new vehicle that satisfies the target performance set for the performance item to be verified, taking into consideration the impact on other performance items among multiple types of performance items. You can

In the preferred embodiment, step S26.
Then, when the performance item other than the performance item selected by the operator as the verification target deteriorates beyond the standard, the target evaluation value input in FIG. 7A or FIG. It may be configured to give a warning to the operator. The criteria in this case are various upper and lower limit values set on the setting screen of FIG. 6 and the permissible range of the other performance items. As a result, it is possible to prevent the planning of an unbalanced new model vehicle that is inferior in the ability of a specific performance item.

As described above, according to the present embodiment, even if it is unlikely that a new vehicle capable of realizing the target specifications and / or the target performance set by the operator is established or not established, the result is Since the improvement plan of is provided with the verification result, the user can obtain the validity of the items set by himself and the index for realizing it (what is the bottleneck, etc.), and The efficiency of planning work can be improved.

Further, FIG. 16 is a view showing an example of the verification result of the new model vehicle to be planned when the item “engine” is selected in the area 141 shown in FIG. 14A. As the information indicating the possibility that the plan is unsuccessful, the fact that the plan is unsuccessful depending on the target performance and the target specifications set by the operator in advance indicates the value (the area 161) indicating the degree of unsuccessfulness and the measure for achieving the target performance. (Area 162: However, in the figure, since there is no appropriate measure, the reason is).
As described above, in the present embodiment, not only the verification result is provided at the vehicle level, but also the calculation result of the verification result in the module unit, which is the engine, is provided in the module unit, so that the user performs a more detailed study. be able to.

The expected evaluation value (actual expected value) calculated as the verification result governs the performance item of interest (“riding comfort” here), as described in the gain adjustment (FIG. 20) described above. Evaluation points En and gain K for multiple items
Using n and, for example, TE = K1 × E1 + K2 × E
2 + ... + Kn × En.
The method of calculating the total evaluation point TE is not limited, and any method may be adopted. Here, FIG.
As described above, the guidance regarding the improvement measures and the degree of influence on other parts can be provided on the association setting screen shown in FIG. 19 and the priority setting screen shown in FIG. 20 as described above. This is because the association of each item and the order of items to be satisfied are set in advance.

From the verification result display screens shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, it is possible to return to the above-mentioned setting screens in order to adjust the information set in the server computer 1.

FIG. 17 shows the area 141 shown in FIG.
FIG. 13 is a diagram exemplifying a layout verification result for a new model vehicle to be planned when the “layout” item is selected in FIG.
As an example of the graphics displayed on the display of the user terminal 2 when the “planned vehicle image” button 121 is operated, the state where the engine room is viewed from above is shown.

In the layout verification, the operator appropriately moves each component, which is automatically set in the simple body by the server computer 1 as described above, by a selection operation using a pointing device such as a mouse. It is possible to consider.

Next, on the display screen shown in FIG.
When the button 124 of “Comparison of performance of planned vehicle” is operated, the expected evaluation value of the new model vehicle to be planned is as described above based on the target performance and the target specifications set in each step described above. Of the existing vehicles that are calculated and registered in the database 3, the comparison with the evaluation value indicating the ability of the comparison target vehicle is displayed on the display of the user terminal 2 on a vehicle basis, a performance item basis, or a module basis. .

FIG. 13 is a view exemplifying a display screen for comparing the expected evaluation value of the new model vehicle to be planned with the evaluation value showing the ability of the comparison target vehicle as the verification result.
In (a), the comparison result for each vehicle is displayed.
In (b), the comparison result of the maneuverability is displayed as an example of the performance item unit. In any of the display examples, the expected evaluation value calculated by the server computer 1 in this step is lower than the target evaluation value set by the operator for the new model vehicle to be planned. As a result, by adjusting the target performance and target specifications set in the above steps,
It is necessary to repeat the valid evaluation until an appropriate expected evaluation value is obtained. As described above, in the present embodiment, the information about the new model vehicle to be planned and the comparison target vehicle to be marked by the new model vehicle are only set in the server computer 1, and the comparison result is a graph of the same basic axis. Is provided to the user in a vehicle unit (FIG. 13A), a module unit, or a performance item unit (FIG. 13B).
The user can easily and objectively construct the product characteristics of the new vehicle with respect to the comparison target vehicle.

As described above, according to the new vehicle planning process based on the target performance and the target specifications described above, the user can set the target specifications and the target performance of the new model vehicle to be planned as shown in FIG. If the new computer is set in the server computer 1 by using, the information indicating the possibility that the new vehicle will actually be established is automatically calculated by referring to the information about the existing vehicle. Vehicle planning can be done quickly and easily. As a result, it is possible to shorten the entire period from the planning of a new vehicle to the start of mass production.

The operator uses the carry-over parts and / or carry-over modules that are often used when planning a new model vehicle by using the setting screens illustrated in FIGS. 9 to 11. Can be set easily and the information indicating the possibility that the new vehicle will be established with the set carry-over parts and / or carry-over modules taken into consideration is calculated. It can be done easily.

<Performance Specialized Vehicle Planning Processing> Regarding performance specific vehicle planning processing, FIG. 22 to FIG. 25 and FIG.
Will be described with reference to.

FIG. 28 is a flow chart showing details of the performance-specialized vehicle planning process (step S4) of the new-model vehicle planning support process performed by the server computer 1 in this embodiment.

In the figure, Step S31: Step S21 (FIG. 2) in the detailed description of the planning process (Step S3) of the new model vehicle based on the above-mentioned target performance and target specifications.
As in the case of 7), using the menu screens shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, various conditions to be referred to when verifying whether or not a new-type vehicle is established, The operator sets the server computer 1 as necessary.

Step S32: In the area 221 of the menu screen shown in FIG. 22A, various performance items at the vehicle level of the new model vehicle are displayed. On this menu screen, the operator selects a performance item that the new model vehicle to be planned intends to specialize at the vehicle level. If any performance item is selected by the operator, the process proceeds to step S33.

Step S33: On the menu screen shown in FIG. 22B, the operator selects by what approach procedure the performance item selected on the menu screen shown in FIG. 22A is specialized. There is a need.

In this embodiment, as an approach procedure for specializing the performance item desired by the operator, as shown in the menu screen shown in FIG. 22B, a procedure based on the vehicle genre and segment (approach 1).
And a procedure (approach 2) based on the target evaluation points are prepared. On the same screen, approach 1 (button 22
If 5) is selected, the process proceeds to step S34, and if approach 2 (button 226) is selected, the process proceeds to step S35.

Step S34: Since the approach 1 was selected by the operator in step S33, the setting screen shown in FIG. 23A is displayed in this step. On this setting screen, the operator
On the menu screen of (a), it is necessary to input predetermined items for the performance item selected earlier.

More specifically, in the area 231 of the setting screen shown in FIG. 23A, the genre and segment of the new model vehicle to be planned, the necessity of the carryover parts and / or the carryover module, and the new model vehicle planning. It is necessary to set the range of the database 3 (condition of data to be extracted) to be referred to when searching. Here, as the genre and the segment, it is possible to intentionally set a plurality of types having similar exercise performances and vehicle characteristics.

The selection of the carryover component and / or the carryover module in step S34 is performed by the same screen development as the man-machine interface described above with reference to FIGS. In addition, when setting the reference range of the database 3 for planning search,
The comparison target vehicle can be selected.

As described above, in this embodiment, since the reference range of the database 3 is set by the user, the reference range of the database is limited to the setting range desired by the user at the time of planning verification by the computer. Realistic and efficient plan verification that reflects the user's intention is realized.

Step S35: Since the approach 2 was selected by the operator in step S33, the setting screen shown in FIG. 24A is displayed in this step. In the area 241 of this setting screen, the operator selects the performance item previously selected on the menu screen of FIG. 22A, the target evaluation point for the previously selected performance item, and the range of the database 3 to be referred to in the plan search. It is necessary to set (condition of data to be extracted).

More specifically, in the area 241 of the setting screen shown in FIG. 24 (a), the operator selects the performance item (the In the example shown in the figure, the target evaluation score to be achieved is the same as the evaluation score of the various performance items stored in the database 3,
It is necessary to set a maximum of 10 points and set a part or module that is a large factor (factor) that governs the performance item.

Further, in the setting screen, various items such as the weight of the vehicle can be set in order to regulate the range of the database 3 referred to by the server computer 1 at the time of planning search, and in the case of the approach 1 described above. Similarly, the carryover component and / or carryover module, the genre or segment of the existing vehicle, and the comparison target vehicle can be selected. Here, as the genre and segment of the existing vehicle, it is possible to intentionally set a plurality of types having similar exercise performances and vehicle characteristics.

Step S36: FIG. 23 (a) or FIG.
In the setting screen shown in FIG. 4 (a), when the operator operates the “search” buttons 232 and 242,
It proceeds to step S37.

Step S37: When the approach 1 is selected, based on the condition set using the setting screen of FIG. 23 (a) in step S34, a plan for a new vehicle satisfying the condition is searched for. To be done. On the other hand, when the approach 2 is selected, based on the condition set by using the setting screen of FIG. 24 (a) in step S35, the plan of the new vehicle satisfying the condition is searched. At the time of the search, the information of various items stored in the database 3 is referred to within the limit of the reference range set by the operator, and the evaluation points of the performance items are calculated by the above-described target performance and target specifications. It is carried out in the same procedure as the comprehensive evaluation point in the planning process of the new model vehicle based on.

FIG. 23B is a diagram showing an example of the result of the plan search for a new model vehicle when the approach 1 is selected, and the search result area 234 shown in FIG. 23 has been previously selected. The best combination of existing parts and / or existing modules (corresponding to the display item in the detail column) for realizing a new model vehicle that satisfies the target item (in this case, maneuverability) The expected evaluation point (expected ability value) and the cost required for the best combination that can achieve the expected evaluation point are displayed.
The cost is obtained by accumulating the cost information stored in the database 3 at the part level and the module level for the existing parts and / or the existing modules selected to form the best combination.

The best combination of existing parts and / or existing modules displayed on the screen of FIG. 23 (b) is the information calculated by using the information of various items related to the existing vehicle stored in the database 3. Therefore, in other words, the best combination indicates the performance of the new vehicle that can be realized with respect to the performance item desired by the operator under the actual conditions such as the current production capacity and the actual capacity of the vehicle manufacturer who operates this system. Information.

FIG. 24B is a diagram showing an example of the result of the plan search for a new model vehicle when the approach 2 is selected. The search result shown in the area 244 of FIG. With respect to the target item (in this case, maneuverability) selected in, the parts or modules that satisfy the target evaluation points set in FIG. 24 (a) (in this case,
Two types of tires) are displayed.

Step S38: In FIG. 23 (b) or FIG. 24 (b) displayed in step S37,
When the "examination of specifications" buttons 235 and 245 are operated, a screen as shown in FIG. 25 is displayed, and the operator can examine the search result on this screen.

FIG. 25 is a diagram exemplifying a tree configuration diagram displayed for reviewing / editing the search result calculated by the server computer 1 for the performance item selected by the operator.

In the tree structure shown in the figure, for the performance item previously selected by the operator, instead of the existing parts and / or the existing modules forming the best combination calculated by the server computer 1,
The configurations of the existing modules and existing parts that control the performance items are roughly classified and displayed in three levels of a vehicle level, a module level, and a parts level. here,
The module level display items may be further classified into sub-modules of a plurality of layers, depending on the type of performance item to be noted. In this case, at the vehicle level, "fuel consumption" is set as the performance item desired by the operator.
Is selected, and module level 1 has "engine performance", "drive system performance", "vehicle weight", "aerodynamic performance" as performance elements necessary to achieve the "fuel efficiency". "," Rolling resistance "items are associated with each other, and the module-level 1 performance elements are associated with the module-level 2 which constitutes each performance element.
The sub-performance elements of are associated. Each sub-performance element is associated with at least one component that controls the sub-performance element.

When "operability" is selected at the vehicle level as the performance item desired by the operator, the performance elements necessary to achieve that "operability" are:
The module level (module level 1) includes "tire / suspension characteristics", "engine performance", "drive system performance", "weight", "weight distribution", and "steering gear ratio".

On this screen, the operator selects an existing component corresponding to the selected desired item on the detailed screen (not shown) displayed by selecting the desired item at the module level or the component level desired to be examined. Alternatively, the specification information of the existing module can be edited (changed). Further, the operator selects the desired item at the module level or the component level desired to be examined, and changes the setting of the existing part or existing module corresponding to the selected desired item to another existing module or existing part. Is also possible.

Step S39: After the examination / editing in step S38, the operator returns to the setting screen shown in FIG. 23A or FIG.
If the button has been operated, in accordance with the procedure of the selected approach 1 or approach 2, step S3
With the information changed in step 8 reflected, step S
At 37, the new vehicle plan is searched again.

As described above, according to the above-described performance specialized vehicle planning process, a simple setting operation in Approach 1 or Approach 2 is performed for a specific performance item to be specialized in a new model vehicle. Since the vehicle configuration to be adopted for the new model vehicle is automatically calculated, it is possible to easily plan a new model vehicle in which the performance items desired by the user are specialized.

When the approach 2 is selected by the operator in the above-described performance-specific vehicle planning process, only the target evaluation value is set for the specific performance item to be specialized in the new model vehicle. Since the vehicle configuration to be adopted for the new model vehicle is automatically calculated, it is possible to easily plan a new model vehicle in which the performance items desired by the user are specialized.

Further, in the above-described performance-specific vehicle planning process, the operator changes the displayed tree configuration diagram by an easy operation, until the operator obtains a plan of a new vehicle satisfying the target performance. By causing the server computer 1 to execute the processes of S37 to S39, it is possible to efficiently refine the best vehicle configuration.

As in the above-described embodiment, the planning information of the new-type vehicle created by the planning department using the server computer 1 is already used in the conventional vehicle in each process such as designing / analyzing / vehicle evaluation test. It is the information created based on the realized real information. For this reason, the information is more accurate than the specifications described in the conventional plan documents, and the design department that received the plan information uses the plan information as an “absolute work instruction sheet” as it should be. The concrete mass production design can be started immediately.

Further, even for the management team of a company that has to decide whether to develop or sell a new vehicle, the planning department will judge the plan of the new vehicle proposed before the mass production design by the design department. At this time, if the planning information summarized as in the above-described embodiment can be referred to, the planning information is systematic information based on the actual information already realized in the conventional vehicle, and if necessary, Since it can be displayed graphically, it is possible to imagine concretely and easily the items to be examined, such as the product characteristics and validity of the new model vehicle to be judged, as compared to the case of referring to a document as in the past. A more accurate decision can be made quickly.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a computer network to which a planning support system for a new vehicle according to the present embodiment can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a diagram conceptually showing a work flow from planning work of a new vehicle to production technical work in the present embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a diagram conceptually illustrating various types of information stored in a database 3 in the present embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a data format of individual records stored in a database 3 in the present embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a main menu screen of the new vehicle planning support system in the present embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an input screen for setting upper and lower limits of regulation when verifying the planning information of a new vehicle.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a screen for setting various target specifications to be realized at a vehicle level in a planning process for a new vehicle based on target performance and target specifications, and a screen for setting various target performances.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a setting screen for setting various target specifications to be realized at a module level in a planning process of a new vehicle based on target performance and target specifications.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a setting screen for setting a carryover component or a carryover module.

FIG. 10 is a diagram exemplifying a display screen of a three-dimensional shape displayed when setting a carryover component or a carryover module.

FIG. 11 is a diagram exemplifying a display screen of a three-dimensional shape displayed when setting a carryover component or a carryover module.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a menu screen for performing various verifications in a planning process for a new-type vehicle based on target performance and target specifications.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a comparative display example of verification results in a planning process for a new-type vehicle based on target performance and target specifications.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a menu screen for evaluating the validity of the verification result in the planning process of the new-model vehicle based on the target performance and the target specifications.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a display example of a validity evaluation result in a planning process for a new vehicle based on target performance and target specifications.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a display example of a validity evaluation result in a planning process for a new-type vehicle based on target performance and target specifications.

FIG. 17 is a diagram exemplifying a layout verification screen in a planning process for a new vehicle based on target performance and target specifications.

FIG. 18 is a diagram exemplifying a menu screen for setting a plurality of types of verification conditions for planning verification in a planning process for a new vehicle or a planning process for a performance-specific vehicle based on target performance and target specifications.

FIG. 19 is a diagram exemplifying a screen for setting association among a plurality of types of verification conditions.

FIG. 20 is a diagram exemplifying a screen for setting priority among a plurality of types of verification conditions.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of an evaluation index setting screen.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a menu screen in a planning process for a performance-specific vehicle.

FIG. 23 is a diagram exemplifying a setting screen for performing a search by Approach 1 in a performance-specific vehicle planning process and a search result display screen.

FIG. 24 is a diagram exemplifying a setting screen for performing a search by Approach 2 in the performance-specific vehicle planning process, and a search result display screen.

FIG. 25 is a diagram exemplifying a tree configuration diagram displayed for reviewing / editing a search result calculated by the server computer 1 for a performance item selected by an operator.

FIG. 26 is a server computer 1 according to the present embodiment.
6 is a flowchart showing an outline of a planning support process for a new-type vehicle carried out by.

FIG. 27 is a server computer 1 according to the present embodiment.
Of the new vehicle planning support processing performed by the new vehicle planning processing based on target performance and target specifications (step S
It is a flow chart which shows the details of 3).

FIG. 28 is a server computer 1 according to the present embodiment.
10 is a flowchart showing details of the performance-specialized vehicle planning processing (step S4) of the new vehicle planning support processing performed by.

[Explanation of symbols]

1: server computer, 2: User terminal, 3: Database, 4: Experimental device, 5: communication network,

Claims (4)

[Claims] 1. A computer program for supporting the planning of a new vehicle, an information storage function of storing information on a plurality of comparison target vehicles in a database, and inputting information on a new vehicle to be planned. , The comparison target vehicle to be marked by the new model vehicle is input by the input function so that the user can set the computer in the computer by referring to the database and the planning by the user. Based on the information about the new model vehicle and the information about the comparison target vehicle to be marked stored in the database, calculate information that enables comparison between the new model vehicle and the comparison target vehicle to be marked,
A computer program, which gives an operation instruction for realizing a calculation result and an information providing function for providing the user. 2. The information storage function allows the database to store specification information and performance information of individual comparison target vehicles as information about the plurality of comparison target vehicles, and the input function includes: The target specifications and target performance of the new vehicle can be input as the information about the new vehicle, and the information providing function includes the specification information and performance information of the new vehicle and the comparison target vehicle to be marked. 2. The computer according to claim 1, wherein the new vehicle and the comparison target vehicle to be marked are displayed comparably on a graph of the same basic axis by performing an operation based on the specification information and the performance information. Computer program. 3. The information storage function standardizes in the database, as information on the plurality of comparison target vehicles, the performance of each module for each of the plurality of modules forming each comparison target vehicle. An evaluation value is stored, and the input function represents the performance of a module that is desired to be compared with a module that constitutes the new model vehicle among a plurality of modules that constitute the comparison target vehicle to be marked. The evaluation value can be changed from a default value to a value desired by the user, and the information providing function, based on the evaluation value after the change, the new model vehicle and the comparison target vehicle to be marked, in module units. The computer program according to claim 1, wherein the computer program is compared with. 4. The information storage function allows a plurality of items of performance information representing performance of individual comparison target vehicles to be stored in the database as information about the plurality of comparison target vehicles on a scale common to those items. It is stored as a standardized evaluation value, and the input function is an evaluation value representing the performance of the comparison target vehicle to be marked, which is desired to be compared with the target performance of the new model vehicle, from the default value. It is possible to change to a value desired by the user, and the information providing function compares the new model vehicle and the comparison target vehicle to be marked on a performance item basis based on the changed evaluation value. The computer program according to claim 1.