JP2024070103A - Management method, management device, management system, program and storage medium - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a management method, a management device, a management system, a program and a storage medium that can more easily manage a position and a state of an article.SOLUTION: A management method according to an embodiment comprises first processing. In the first processing, a plurality of first identifiers with which article data indicating information of an article are respectively associated are respectively attached to a plurality of articles. In the first processing, a transmitter and a second identifier associated with the transmitter are further attached to an article group in which the plurality of articles are collected. In the first processing, the plurality of first identifiers are further associated with the second identifier by reading the plurality of first identifiers and reading the second identifier by a reader that can read the plurality of first identifiers.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Embodiments of the present invention relate to a management method, a management device, a management system, a program, and a storage medium.

There is a management method that uses identifiers to manage the status of items. There is a demand for technology that can more easily manage the location and status of items using this management method.

Patent No. 6931007

The problem that this invention aims to solve is to provide a management method, a management device, a management system, a program, and a storage medium that can more easily manage the location and status of items.

The management method according to the embodiment includes a first process. In the first process, a plurality of first identifiers, each of which is linked to item data indicating information about the item, are attached to a plurality of items. In the first process, a transmitter and a second identifier linked to the transmitter are further attached to an item group that groups the plurality of items. In the first process, the plurality of first identifiers are further read, and the second identifier is read with a reader capable of reading the plurality of first identifiers, thereby linking the plurality of first identifiers to the second identifier.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a management system according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a management method according to an embodiment. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the warehousing process. FIG. 4 is a table illustrating the part data. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a structural unit of a product. FIG. 6 is a table illustrating the part data. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the transport process. FIG. 8 is a table illustrating example position data. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a moving body. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a transfer sequence by a moving body. FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a state during transportation by a moving body. 12A and 12B are examples of user interface outputs from a management device according to an embodiment. 13A and 13B are examples of user interface outputs from the management device according to the embodiment. FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a management system according to a modified example of the embodiment. FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a hardware configuration.

Each embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this specification and each drawing, elements similar to those already described will be given the same reference numerals and detailed descriptions will be omitted as appropriate.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a management system according to an embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 1, the management system 1 according to the embodiment includes a management device 10, a storage device 11, a terminal device 12, an identifier 21 (first identifier), an identifier 22 (second identifier), a reader 23 (first reader), a transmitter 31 (first transmitter), a transmitter 32 (second transmitter), and a receiver 33.

The management device 10 manages data related to items. The storage device 11 stores data necessary for processing by the management device 10, data obtained by processing by the management device 10, etc.

The identifier 21 and the identifier 22 have unique identification information and are attached to the items. The identifier 21 and the identifier 22 are one-dimensional barcodes, two-dimensional barcodes, Radio Frequency IDentifier (RFID) tags, Integrated Circuit (IC) tags, etc. As described below, the identifier 21 is attached to the item. The identifier 22 is attached to a group of items that is a collection of multiple items.

The reader 23 reads the identifier 21 and the identifier 22. If the identifier 21 and the identifier 22 are barcodes, the reader 23 is a barcode reader. If the identifier 21 and the identifier 22 are RFID tags, the reader 23 is an RFID reader. If the identifier 21 and the identifier 22 are IC tags, the reader 23 is an IC reader. The reader 23 transmits the read data to the management device 10. The management device 10 may receive the read data via the storage device 11. The type of the identifier 22 is the same as the type of the identifier 21. Therefore, the identifier 21 and the identifier 22 can be read by a common reader 23. For example, the reader 23 capable of reading the identifier 21 can also read the identifier 22.

The transmitter 31 emits radio waves including unique identification information. The transmitter 31 may be a beacon, an Ultra-Wide Band (UWB) tag, or the like. The reach of the radio waves from the transmitter 31 is longer than the reach of the radio waves from an RFID tag or an RFID reader. The receiver 33 is capable of receiving the radio waves emitted from the transmitter 31. The receiver 33 calculates the position of the transmitter 31 based on the identification information included in the radio waves and the strength of the radio waves.

Multiple receivers 33 may be used to obtain the position of one transmitter 31. Preferably, a directional receiver 33 is used that has the function of receiving radio waves strongly in a specific direction. By using a directional receiver 33, the position of the transmitter 31 can be obtained with one receiver 33. The installation area of the receiver 33 can be reduced, allowing for more efficient use of the site.

The terminal device 12 is a device that has input means and output means and can be operated by a worker. The terminal device 12 is a general-purpose or dedicated personal computer, a smart device, etc. The smart device is a tablet, a smartphone, smart glasses, a smart watch, etc.

The storage device 11, the terminal device 12, the reader 23, and the receiver 33 are connected to the management device 10 via wired communication, wireless communication, or a network, and can communicate data with the management device 10.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a management method according to an embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the management method M according to the embodiment mainly includes a warehousing process S100 (first process) and a transport process S200 (second process).

FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the warehousing process.
In the warehousing process S100, first, an item is delivered (step S101). In the delivery, the purchaser of the item receives the item sent from the order recipient. The item is, for example, a part. A part may be an object that is a combination of multiple elements. Here, the smallest unit in the design of a product is called a "part." The following describes the case where the item is a part.

Generally, a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode is attached to the delivered part. The worker reads the barcode of the part using a barcode reader (step S102). When the management device 10 receives the read barcode, it refers to the part data (item data) (step S103).

4 and 6 are tables showing examples of part data, and Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing examples of component units of a product.
The part data indicates information about the part. For example, as shown in Fig. 4, the part data 100 includes an order number 101, a product number 102a, a constituent unit ID (constituent unit data) 102b, a part ID 102c, a product name 103, a model number 104, a manufacturer 105, and a scheduled start date 106.

The order number 101 is a unique identification number that is automatically issued when each part is ordered. Even for the same part, different order numbers 101 are assigned if they are ordered at different times. Each part can be identified by the order number 101. The order number 101 is an example of first identification data. The management device 10 may issue the order number 101.

Product number 102a is an identification number for the product in which each part is used. Structural unit ID 102b is an identification number for the structural unit in which each part is used. A structural unit is a main component of a product and is a collection of parts. Structural units are divided by function and are also called units, modules, components, etc. Part ID 102c is a design identification number for the product in which each part is used.

The product number 102a, constituent unit ID 102b, and part ID 102c are assigned when the product is designed. In addition to the order number 101, each part can also be identified by the combination of the product number 102a, constituent unit ID 102b, and part ID 102c. The combination of the product number 102a, constituent unit ID 102b, and part ID 102c is an example of second identification data.

For example, the product 150 shown in FIG. 5 is composed of multiple structural units 151 to 156. The structural units 151 to 156 have different functions. For example, the specifications of the product 150 are determined first, and structural units are determined for each function classified based on the specifications. Each of the structural units 151 to 156 is composed of a combination of multiple parts 160. The product number 102a, structural unit ID 102b, and part ID 102c are assigned to each part 160 when the product 150 is designed.

Product name 103 indicates the name of the part. Model 104 indicates the model of the part. Manufacturer 105 indicates the manufacturer of the part. Planned date 106 indicates the time when the part will be used in production. Planned date 106 is registered based on a production schedule created in advance. The production schedule includes the start date of assembly of each component unit, the assembly location, the planned start date of each part, etc. The production schedule is created by a schedule manager at the production site. The production schedule may be created through the management device 10.

The management device 10 checks to see which part in the part data corresponds to the part whose barcode has been read (step S104). The management device 10 issues a new identifier 21. At this time, the part data of the delivered part is linked to the new identifier 21. The worker attaches the issued identifier 21 to the part (step S105). For example, the identifier 21 is affixed to the part.

The worker groups multiple parts, each of which has an identifier 21 attached, into one (step S106). At this time, parts that have been assigned the same structural unit ID 102b are extracted and grouped together. The multiple parts are grouped together in a container, bag, shelf, or the like. Here, a group of grouped parts is called a parts group (item group).

The worker attaches the transmitter 31 to the group of parts (step S107). The worker attaches the identifier 22 linked to the transmitter 31 to the transmitter 31 (step S108). For example, the identifier 22 is affixed to the transmitter 31. The identifier 22 may be attached to the group of parts to which the transmitter 31 is attached. As long as one identifier 22 is attached corresponding to one transmitter 31, the specific method of attaching the identifier 22 is arbitrary. The worker reads the identifier 21 and the identifier 22 with the reader 23 (step S109).

To make the work in step S109 more efficient, it is preferable that the identifiers 21 and 22 are RFID tags, and the reader 23 is an RFID reader. The RFID reader emits radio waves. When the RFID tag receives the radio waves, it emits radio waves containing unique identification information. The RFID reader receives the radio waves transmitted from the RFID tag. By using the RFID tag and RFID reader, the data of multiple RFID tags can be read simultaneously and without contact. For example, an RFID reader is installed in an aisle, and as a group of parts pass through the aisle, multiple RFID tags are read at the same time.

The management device 10 links the identifier 21 of the read part to the identifier 22 of the read part group (step S110). The management device 10 specifies a storage location (first location) for the part group (step S111). The worker transports the part group to the specified storage location (step S112). The part group is stored in the storage location to which it was transported.

Figure 6 shows an example in which various data are linked to the part data shown in Figure 4. Compared to the part data 100 shown in Figure 4, the part data 110 shown in Figure 6 further includes an individual ID 111, an issue date 112, a group ID 113, a read date 114, a transporter 115, and a storage location ID 116.

The individual ID 111 is the identification data of the identifier 21 attached to each part. The issue date 112 indicates the time when the identifier 21 was issued to the part. The group ID 113 indicates the identification data of the identifier 22 issued to a group of parts. Parts linked to the same group ID 113 are included in the same group of parts.

The reading date 114 indicates the time when the identifier 21 of each part was read. The transporter 115 indicates the ID of the person who transported the part group and read the identifier 21 and identifier 22. The storage location ID 116 indicates the storage location of the specified part group. As shown in FIG. 6, data such as the ID of the identifier 21 and the ID of the identifier 22 are sequentially linked to each part data according to each step of the warehousing process S100.

This completes the parts receiving process S100. The parts transported in the receiving process S100 are stored at the storage location until the transport process S200 is executed. During storage, the transmitter 31 emits radio waves continuously or intermittently. The receiver 33 receives the radio waves and calculates the position of the transmitter 31.

The management device 10 receives the calculated position from the receiver 33. One identifier 22 and one transmitter 31 are attached to one part group. In the part data 110, the identifier 22 attached to the part group and the identifier 21 attached to each part are linked to each other. The management device 10 can estimate which part group is located in which position from the position of the transmitter 31. In this way, the position of each part group is managed even during storage.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the transport process.
In the transport process S200, the management device 10 specifies a transport position (second position) for the group of parts (step S201). For example, when the scheduled start date of work approaches, the transport of the group of parts is decided and the transport position is specified. The management device 10 transmits the transport position to the terminal device 12. The worker transports the group of parts to the transport position while checking the transport position displayed on the terminal device 12 (step S202).

FIG. 8 is a table illustrating example position data.
The management device 10 can output, for example, the position data shown in Fig. 8. The position data 200 includes a group ID 201, coordinates 202a to 202c, a delivery position ID 203, and coordinates 204a to 204c.

Group ID 201 indicates identification data for each part group. Coordinates 202a to 202c indicate the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the part group, respectively. Transport position ID 203 indicates identification data for the position to which the part is transported. A transport position ID 203 is assigned in advance to each position to which the part can be transported. Coordinates 204a to 204c indicate the X, Y, and Z coordinates of the transport position, respectively.

In the example shown in FIG. 8, an instruction is given to transport a group of parts identified by group ID 201a from coordinates (705, 191, 0.7) to coordinates (938, 640, 0) identified by transport position ID 203.

During transportation, the transmitter 31 repeatedly transmits radio waves and the receiver 33 repeatedly calculates the position. The management device 10 determines whether the calculated position of the part group has reached the transportation position (step S203). When the part group has reached the transportation position, the transportation process S200 is completed. The part group at the transportation position is used for production on the next scheduled production start date.

Advantages of the embodiment will be described.
According to the management method M of the embodiment, part data is linked to an identifier 21. A plurality of identifiers 21 are attached to a plurality of parts, respectively. The status of each part can be managed by reading the identifier 21 of each part when the parts are stored in a warehouse, transported, etc. Furthermore, according to the management method M, a transmitter 31 is attached to a parts group that groups together a plurality of parts. In addition to the status of the parts group, the position of the parts group can be managed using radio waves from the transmitter 31.

Furthermore, the transmitter 31 is linked to the identifier 22. The identifier 21 of each part in the part group is linked to the identifier 22. Since the identifiers 21 and 22 are of the same type, they can be read by a common reader 23. The identifiers 21 and the identifiers 22 (transmitters 31) of each part can be easily linked. For example, there is no need to link the identification information of each transmitter 31 to the identifiers 21. Also, since the number of readers 23 can be reduced, the costs required for managing parts can be reduced.

The management method according to the embodiment makes it easier to manage the location and status of items.

For more efficient management of items, it is preferable that the identifiers 21 and 22 are capable of transmitting and receiving radio waves. In other words, it is preferable that the identifiers 21 and 22 are readable by the reader 23 without contact and without requiring visibility. If the identifiers 21 and 22 are contact-type or require visibility for reading, the reader 23 must read each identifier one by one, which takes time to read the identifiers 21 and 22. If the identifiers 21 and 22 are readable without contact and without requiring visibility, it is not necessary to read each identifier one by one with the reader 23. It is also possible to read multiple identifiers 21 at once. This makes it possible to read the identifiers 21 and 22 more efficiently.

For example, the management device 10 automatically links the identifier 21 and the identifier 22 that are read at the same time. This eliminates the need for the worker to specify the identifier to be linked. Linking the identifier 21 and the identifier 22 can be made more efficient.

From the standpoint of the non-contact readable distance (radio wave reach) and reading accuracy, it is preferable that identifier 21 and identifier 22 are RFID tags and reader 23 is an RFID reader.

The management method according to the embodiment is particularly suitable for sites that produce indented products (products made to order). For mass-produced products, the manufacturing line is generally systematized, and the identification data of parts is centrally managed from delivery to shipment. In contrast, in the production of indented products, the number of parts used, the type of parts, and the production process differ for each product. There is no fixed manufacturing line. Free location is often adopted to improve the storage efficiency of parts. For this reason, the management of the position and status of parts is more complicated for indented products than for mass-produced products. According to the embodiment, it becomes possible to more easily manage the status and position of items even in the production of indented products.

For a group of parts, as shown in FIG. 6, it is preferable that multiple parts that have been assigned a common structural unit ID 102b are grouped together. A "structural unit" is a functional unit based on the specifications of the device to be assembled, and is determined at the time of design. When a device is designed, the device specifications are determined first. Next, the functions of the device are defined. The "functions" are defined arbitrarily by the designer. Then, a design drawing for the device is created. By assigning structural units corresponding to functional units, it becomes possible to manage parts during product manufacturing based on design data.

As a specific example, a screw fastening device will be described. In designing a screw fastening device, the specifications of the screw fastening device are first determined. Next, the work and roles of the device are roughly classified based on the device specifications. For each classification, the collected work and roles are defined as "functions". Next, a structure for realizing each function is designed. This results in the creation of drawings such as assembly drawings. For each assembly drawing, the structure is broken down into parts, and each part is arranged. The arranged parts are then organized into structural units that correspond to the functions determined at the time of design, using a management method according to the embodiment.

An example of the functions of a screw tightening device is described below. For example, an automatic screw tightening device is designed that automatically performs the process from supplying to dispensing parts. The roles of this screw tightening device are roughly classified into "screw tightening," "supplying parts," and "dispensing parts." Each category of roles is further classified. For example, the role of "screw tightening" can be classified into "tightening the screw," "holding the part when tightening the screw," "positioning the part when tightening the screw," and so on. For each category, a "function" is defined. A screw tightening unit, a part gripping unit, and a part positioning unit are designed to correspond to each of these functions. Then, a common component unit ID is assigned to the parts required for the production of each unit, and they are organized as component units.

In particular, at manufacturing sites for indented products (made-to-order products), the number of parts used, the type of parts, and the manufacturing process may differ for each production run. This makes it difficult to manage parts based on manufacturing data such as the type of product and the manufacturing process. It is necessary to manage parts using design data. According to the embodiment, by grouping together parts included in a common structural unit, it is possible to automate at least a portion of the parts management corresponding to the design data.

When a structural unit corresponds to a functional unit, parts for assembling the same structural unit are used at the same time. When multiple parts with a common structural unit ID 102b are grouped together, the parts can be prepared efficiently and the number of parts to be transported can be reduced when assembling the structural unit.

Data required to assemble the constituent units (drawings, work instructions, etc.) is often also organized by constituent unit. This reduces the amount of data to be referenced when assembling the constituent units, making assembly work more efficient. The production schedule also includes the start date for assembly of each constituent unit, the assembly location, the planned start date for each part, and so on. By setting the constituent units to correspond to the functional units at the time of design, it is possible to automate at least part of the creation of the production schedule using design data. Furthermore, by grouping parts according to their constituent units, management of the production schedule becomes easier. It also becomes easier to calculate or manage progress in the production schedule.

Each part is assigned first identification data for identifying the part in addition to second identification data including product number 102a, structural unit ID 102b, and part ID 102c. The second identification data is design-related data and is not general-purpose. By assigning the first identification data, it becomes easier for people other than the designer to handle the part data.

In the management method M according to the embodiment, a robot capable of transporting items may be used. For example, in step S106, the task of assembling a plurality of parts to form a parts group may be performed by a robot. For example, a robot equipped with a suction mechanism, a clamping mechanism, or a jamming mechanism and capable of holding items may be used. The management device 10 transmits instructions to the robot to cause the robot to form a parts group.

A moving object capable of transporting parts may be used. The moving object may be an automated guided vehicle (AGV or AMR), a drone, etc. The management device 10 transmits instructions to the moving object and controls the moving object.

For example, in the warehousing process S100, the management device 10 sends instructions to the mobile body and has the mobile body transport the group of parts to which the identifier 22 and transmitter 31 are attached. In step S109, the management device 10 has the mobile body transporting the group of parts pass the RFID reader 23. In step S111, the management device 10 instructs the mobile body as to the storage location. In step S112, the management device 10 has the mobile body transport the group of parts to the storage location.

In step S201 of the transport process S200, the management device 10 instructs the mobile unit 300 on the group of parts to be transported, the storage location of the group of parts, and the transport location of the group of parts. In step S202, the management device 10 causes the mobile unit 300 to transport the group of parts to the transport location.

As shown in FIG. 1, a transmitter 32 may be used to specify a transport position. Like transmitter 31, transmitter 32 is a beacon, a UWB tag, or the like. For example, a worker places transmitter 32 as a marker at a position where the worker wants the mobile body to transport the group of parts. Receiver 33 calculates the position of transmitter 32 from the radio waves of transmitter 32. Management device 10 receives the calculated position. Management device 10 transmits an instruction to the mobile body to transport the group of parts to the calculated position.

FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a moving body.
For example, as shown in FIG. 9 , a moving body 300 includes a housing 301 , wheels 302 , a driving unit 303 , a camera 304 , an elevator device 306 , an arm 307 , and a control device 310 .

The housing 301 is box-shaped and contains elements necessary for the operation of the moving body 300. The wheels 302 are provided under the housing 301 and are in contact with the floor surface. The drive unit 303 drives the wheels 302 to move the moving body 300. The camera 304 captures an image in front of the moving body 300. Instead of or in addition to the camera 304, a sensor for detecting objects around the moving body 300 may be provided. The sensor may be a distance measuring sensor such as a laser range finder.

The lifting device 306 raises or lowers the arm 307. The arm 307 is fork-shaped and can move in the front-to-rear direction. The arm 307 can hold an item placed on a shelf or the like, or place an item on the shelf.

The control device 310 controls the operation of the moving body 300. The control device 310 can also communicate data with the management device 10. The control device 310 determines obstacles ahead of the moving body 300 from the images captured by the camera 304. The control device 310 moves the moving body 300 to a specified position while avoiding collisions with the obstacles. The control device 310 controls the lifting device 306 and the arm 307 to hold or place items.

In the example shown in FIG. 9, a moving body 300 carries a container 320 on an arm 307. The container 320 contains a group of parts (not shown). An identifier 22 is attached to the container 320. The moving body 300 passes through a gate-shaped reader 23. The reader 23 reads the identifier 22 of the container 320 and the identifier 21 of each part.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a transfer sequence by a moving body.
A specific transport sequence when the moving body 300 is used in the transport process S200 will be described. The receiver 33 calculates the position of the transmitter 31 from the radio waves of the transmitter 31 attached to the group of parts to be transported (step S201a). The receiver 33 calculates the position of the transmitter 32 from the radio waves of the transmitter 32 (step S201b). The receiver 33 that receives the radio waves of the transmitter 32 may be the same as the receiver 33 that receives the radio waves of the transmitter 31, or may be different from the receiver 33 that receives the radio waves of the transmitter 31.

The management device 10 acquires the positions of the transmitters 31 and 32 (step S201c). The management device 10 transmits an instruction to the mobile unit 300 to transport the group of parts from the position of the transmitter 31 (storage position) to the position of the transmitter 32 (transport position) (step S201d).

FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing a state during transportation by a moving body.
The mobile unit 300 moves to a storage position (step S202a). For example, the part group 330 includes a plurality of parts 331 to 334. Identifiers 21a to 21d are attached to the parts 331 to 334, respectively. An identifier 22 and a transmitter 31 are attached to the part group 330. The part group 330 is stored on a shelf 340. In addition, a marker 345 for detecting the orientation of the shelf 340 is attached to the shelf 340. An ArUco marker or the like can be used as the marker 345.

In step S202a, the mobile body 300 approaches the shelf 340 while avoiding obstacles based on the image captured by the camera 304. The mobile body 300 detects the orientation of the shelf 340 based on the image captured by the camera 304 of the marker 345 (step S202b). The mobile body 300 moves to a position where it can hold the group of parts 330 by the arm 307, and holds the group of parts 330 by the arm 307 (step S202c). The mobile body 300 may hold the shelf 340 on which the group of parts 330 is stored.

The moving body 300 moves to the transfer position while avoiding obstacles based on the image captured by the camera 304 (step S202d). The group of parts 330 is transferred to the shelf 350. The shelf 350 is equipped with a transmitter 32. In addition, the shelf 350 is equipped with a marker 355 for detecting the orientation of the shelf 350. An ArUco marker or the like can be used as the marker 355.

The mobile body 300 detects the orientation of the shelf 350 based on the image of the marker 355 captured by the camera 304 (step S202e). The mobile body 300 moves to a position where the group of parts 330 can be placed, and places the group of parts 330 on the shelf 350 using the arm 307 (step S202f). If the mobile body 300 is transporting the shelf 340, the mobile body 300 places the shelf 340 at the position indicated by the transmitter 32. This completes the transport process by the mobile body 300.

For example, the mobile body 300 automatically transports the group of parts from a storage position to a transport position on the day before the scheduled start of construction. A pre-registered planned assembly position is used as the transport position. The mobile body 300 may transport the group of parts so that the group of parts is aligned in the order of the planned dates.

The management device 10 may display a user interface (UI) showing the position of each part group on the display unit of the terminal device 12.

12A and 12B are examples of user interface outputs from a management device according to an embodiment.
12A shows a UI 400 that displays a map 401 showing a production site. The production site includes a storage area 402 where a group of parts is stored, and an assembly area 403 (first area) where products are assembled using the parts.

Map 401 displays marks 411-414 indicating the position of each identifier 22, and marks 421-424 indicating transport positions. Marks 411-414 each indicate a group ID. Marks 421-424 each indicate a transport position ID. For example, by displaying position data 200 and UI 400, the user can easily understand which part group is being transported to where. The user may be a worker who handles the parts, a production manager, or the like.

The UI 400 may allow the user to change the positions of the marks 421 to 424. The management device 10 accepts the change in the positions of the marks 421 to 424 and corrects the position data 200. When the part group is transported using a mobile object, the management device 10 transmits an instruction in real time to the mobile object 300 to transport the part group to the changed position.

As shown in FIG. 12(b), the UI 400 may display a schedule for each part group. In the illustrated example, messages 431-434 indicating the planned start date for each part group are displayed on marks 411-414. The messages may display the difference between the current time and the planned time, or may display the planned date.

As shown in FIG. 12(b), the display mode may change depending on the difference between the current time and the scheduled date. In the illustrated example, for marks 411 to 414, parts with scheduled dates far away, parts with scheduled dates coming up, and parts whose scheduled dates have passed are displayed in different ways.

By displaying UI 400, the user can understand the location and status of each group of parts while comparing it with the production schedule.

The management device 10 may issue a notification when a part with an upcoming scheduled delivery date or a group of parts whose scheduled delivery date has passed is in the storage location. For example, the management device 10 causes the terminal device 12 to display a notification indicating that a part with an upcoming scheduled delivery date or a group of parts whose scheduled delivery date has passed is in the storage location. The management device 10 may send an email including the notification to a terminal device registered in advance. The notification may further include content encouraging a revision of the production schedule.

The management device 10 can also calculate daily usage in the assembly area based on the location of each part and the scheduled start date of construction. For example, the usage at the current time is calculated based on the location of each part group. The usage at a past time is calculated based on the past location of each part group. The usage at a future time is calculated based on the scheduled start date of construction of each part group. The management device 10 may output daily usage in the assembly area.

13A and 13B are examples of user interface outputs from a management device according to the embodiment.
13A displays a map 401 and a time (date) 440. The management device 10 displays on the map 401 the usage status of the assembly area 403 on the day indicated by the time 440.

In the illustrated example, sections 451 to 454 are displayed in assembly area 403. Sections that are occupied during assembly are displayed with identification data (group ID) of the parts group used in that section. Sections that are not occupied and are available are displayed in a different manner from occupied sections.

The user can specify the time 440. The management device 10 accepts the change to the time 440. The management device 10 displays the usage status of the assembly area 403 at the specified time on the map 401, as shown in FIG. 13(b).

FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of a management system according to a modified example of the embodiment.
1, the management system 1a according to the modified example further includes a reader 24 (second reader) and a reader 25 (third reader). The reader 24 reads the identifiers 21 and 22 of the parts group transported from the storage position to the transport position. The reader 25 reads the identifiers 21 of the parts used in the assembly. The readers 24 and 25 transmit the read data to the management device 10.

The management device 10 may compare the results of reading by the reader 23 with the results of reading by the reader 24. If no parts have been added or removed, the identifiers 21 of each part read by the reader 23 will match the identifiers 21 of each part read by the reader 24. If the number of identifiers 21 read by the reader 24 is increased or decreased compared to the number of identifiers 21 read by the reader 23, this indicates that a part has been added to the part group or a part has been removed from the part group.

The management device 10 may update the status of each part depending on the results of reading by the reader 24 and the reader 25. For example, the management device 10 determines the status of the part read by the reader 23 to be "in storage". The management device 10 determines the status of the part read by the reader 24 to be "dispatched". The management device 10 determines the status of the part read by the reader 25 to be "used".

Like reader 23, reader 24 and reader 25 are preferably capable of reading identifiers 21 and 22 without contact and without the need for visibility. For example, reader 24 is provided in the shape of a gate between the storage area and the assembly area. Reader 25 is provided in the collection box for identifier 21. The collection box is preferably made of a metal that blocks radio waves, such as SUS. Reader 25 is attached inside the collection box. No special processing is required for the radio waves emitted by the reader inside the collection box, but if the same identifier 21 is read multiple times by reader 25, reader 25 will only accept the first reading and will ignore subsequent readings.

The management device 10 may update the production schedule according to the result of reading by the reader 25. When the identifier 21 of a part is read by the reader 25, it indicates that the part has been used in assembly. The management device 10 determines that the start of construction of the structural unit in which the part is used has begun. The management device 10 updates the progress of the production in which the part is used.

The reader 24 may be provided on the mobile body 300. The mobile body 300 reads the identifiers 21 and 22 of the parts held by the arm 307. The mobile body 300 may also read the identifiers 21 and 22 of the parts in the storage area that are not immediately transported. This allows the status of the parts stored in the storage area to be constantly managed. For example, if any part is taken out, this is immediately detected.

If there is a part that is included in the group of parts read by the reader 23 but is not included in the group of parts read by the reader 24 or the reader 25 mounted on the mobile body 300, the management device 10 may determine that the part is lost. If it is determined that the part is lost, the management device 10 may send a notification to the terminal device 12.

FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing a hardware configuration.
15 is used as the management device 10 and the terminal device 12. The computer 90 includes a CPU 91, a ROM 92, a RAM 93, a storage device 94, an input interface 95, an output interface 96, and a communication interface 97.

The ROM 92 stores a program that controls the operation of the computer 90. The ROM 92 stores programs necessary for the computer 90 to execute each of the above-mentioned processes. The RAM 93 functions as a storage area in which the programs stored in the ROM 92 are expanded.

The CPU 91 includes a processing circuit. The CPU 91 uses the RAM 93 as a work memory and executes a program stored in at least one of the ROM 92 and the storage device 94. During program execution, the CPU 91 controls each component via the system bus 98 and executes various processes.

The storage device 94 stores data necessary for executing the program and data obtained by executing the program.

The input interface (I/F) 95 can connect the computer 90 to the input device 95a. The input I/F 95 is, for example, a serial bus interface such as USB. The CPU 91 can read various data from the input device 95a via the input I/F 95.

The output interface (I/F) 96 can connect the computer 90 to the output device 96a. The output I/F 96 is, for example, a video output interface such as a Digital Visual Interface (DVI) or a High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HPMI (registered trademark)). The CPU 91 can transmit data to the output device 96a via the output I/F 96 and cause an image to be displayed on the output device 96a.

The communication interface (I/F) 97 can connect the computer 90 to a server 97a external to the computer 90. The communication I/F 97 is, for example, a network card such as a LAN card. The CPU 91 can read various data from the server 97a via the communication I/F 97.

The storage device 94 includes one or more selected from a hard disk drive (HDD) and a solid state drive (SSD). The input device 95a includes one or more selected from a mouse, a keyboard, a microphone (audio input), and a touchpad. The output device 96a includes one or more selected from a monitor, a projector, a printer, and a speaker. A device having the functions of both the input device 95a and the output device 96a, such as a touch panel, may also be used.

Each process executed by the management device 10 may be realized by one computer 90, or may be realized by the cooperation of multiple computers 90.

The above various data processing may be recorded as a program that can be executed by a computer on a magnetic disk (such as a flexible disk or hard disk), an optical disk (such as a CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-ROM, DVD±R, DVD±RW), a semiconductor memory, or other non-transitory computer-readable storage medium.

For example, information recorded on a recording medium can be read by a computer (or an embedded system). The recording medium may have any recording format (storage format). For example, the computer reads a program from the recording medium and causes the CPU to execute the instructions described in the program based on the program. The computer may also acquire (or read) the program via a network.

The invention according to the embodiment may include the following features.
(Feature 1)
attaching a plurality of first identifiers, each of which is linked to item data indicating information of the item, to a plurality of items, respectively;
Attaching a transmitter and a second identifier linked to the transmitter to an item group including the plurality of items;
reading the plurality of first identifiers and reading the second identifier with a reader capable of reading the plurality of first identifiers, thereby linking the plurality of first identifiers with the second identifier;
A management method comprising a first process.
(Feature 2)
the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier are capable of transmitting and receiving radio waves;
2. The management method according to feature 1, wherein a reach of radio waves from the transmitter is longer than a reach of radio waves from each of the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier.
(Feature 3)
The management method according to feature 2, further comprising: passing the group of items through a first reader to link the plurality of first identifiers to the second identifiers.
(Feature 4)
the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier are RFID tags;
4. The method of claim 3, wherein the first reader is an RFID reader.
(Feature 5)
Each of the item data is
First identification data;
second identification data relating to the design, different from the first identification data;
Including,
The second identification data includes constituent unit data indicating a constituent unit of a product,
5. The management method according to any one of features 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of items to which common constituent unit data is assigned are grouped into the item group.
(Feature 6)
The constituent units are determined for each classified function of the product,
The management method according to feature 5, wherein the group of items is a plurality of parts for producing a unit having one of a plurality of the functions.
(Feature 7)
The management method according to any one of features 1 to 6, further comprising a transport process for transporting the group of items to a moving body after the first process.
(Feature 8)
In the transport process,
Calculating the position of the group of articles using radio waves transmitted from the transmitter;
The group of articles is transported by the moving body from the position to another position.
8. The method of claim 7.
(Feature 9)
the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier are capable of transmitting and receiving radio waves;
The management method described in feature 8, wherein, during the transportation process, the moving body transporting the group of items from the position to the other position passes a second reader, and the second reader reads the multiple first identifiers and the second identifier.
(Feature 10)
Linking a plurality of item data indicating information of a plurality of items, respectively, to a plurality of first identifiers;
A first transmitter attached to the group of items in which the plurality of items are grouped is associated with a second identifier;
A management device that associates the plurality of first identifiers with the second identifier.
(Feature 11)
11. The management device of feature 10, further comprising: a management unit that associates the plurality of first identifiers read by a first reader with the second identifier read by the first reader.
(Feature 12)
The moving body that conveyed the group of articles is passed through the first reader;
The management device according to feature 11, further comprising: causing the moving body to transport the group of items that have passed the first reader to a first position.
(Feature 13)
the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier are RFID tags;
13. The management device of feature 12, wherein the first reader is an RFID reader.
(Feature 14)
passing the moving body, which conveys the group of articles from the first position to the second position, through a second reader;
14. The management device of feature 12 or 13, wherein the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier are read by the second reader.
(Feature 15)
15. The management device of feature 14, wherein a location of a second transmitter different from the first transmitter is used as the second location.
(Feature 16)
16. The management device of feature 14 or 15, further comprising updating a status of each of the plurality of items in response to a result of reading the plurality of first identifiers by each of the first reader and the second reader.
(Feature 17)
Each of the item data is
First identification data;
second identification data relating to the design, different from the first identification data;
Including,
The second identification data includes constituent unit data indicating a constituent unit of a product,
The management device according to any one of features 10 to 16, wherein the plurality of articles to which the common constituent unit data is assigned are extracted from the entirety of the articles.
(Feature 18)
The constituent units are determined for each classified function of the product,
20. The management device of feature 17, wherein the group of items is a plurality of parts for producing a unit having one of a plurality of the functions.
(Feature 19)
19. The management device according to any one of features 10 to 18, wherein the location of the first transmitter and a planned date on which any of the plurality of articles is to be used are displayed on a display unit.
(Feature 20)
The management device of feature 19 further causes the display unit to display the position to which the group of items is transported in the first area.
(Feature 21)
a third reader reads the first identifier removed from any of the articles that have been used;
The management device according to any one of features 10 to 20, further comprising: updating a progress of production in which any one of the parts is used, depending on a result of reading the removed first identifier by the third reader.
(Feature 22)
A management device according to any one of features 10 to 21;
a first reader for reading the plurality of first identifiers;
A moving body that transports the group of articles;
A management system equipped with

The embodiments described above provide a management method, a management device, a management system, a program, and a storage medium that can more easily manage the location and status of items.

Although several embodiments of the present invention have been illustrated above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be implemented in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, modifications, etc. can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope and gist of the invention, as well as within the scope of the invention and its equivalents described in the claims. Furthermore, the above-mentioned embodiments can be implemented in combination with each other.

1, 1a: Management system, 10: Management device, 11: Storage device, 12: Terminal device, 21, 21a to 21d, 22: Identifier, 23 to 25: Reader, 31, 32: Transmitter, 33: Receiver, 90: Computer, 91: CPU, 92: ROM, 93: RAM, 94: Storage device, 95: Input interface, 95a: Input device, 96: Output interface, 96a: Output device, 97: Communication interface, 97a: Server, 98: System bus, 100, 110: Part data, 150: Product, 151 to 156: Structural unit, 160: Part, 200: Position data, 201, 201a: Group ID, 202a to 202c: Coordinates, 203: Transport position ID, 204a to 204c: Coordinates, 300: moving body, 301: housing, 302: wheels, 303: driving unit, 304: camera, 306: lifting device, 307: arm, 310: control device, 320: container, 330: parts group, 331 to 334: parts, 340: shelf, 345: marker, 350: shelf, 355: marker, 401: map, 402: storage area, 403: assembly area, 411 to 414, 421 to 424: marks, 431 to 434: messages, 451 to 454: sections, M: management method

Claims (24)

attaching a plurality of first identifiers, each of which is linked to item data indicating information of the item, to a plurality of items, respectively;
Attaching a transmitter and a second identifier linked to the transmitter to an item group including the plurality of items;
reading the plurality of first identifiers and reading the second identifier with a reader capable of reading the plurality of first identifiers, thereby linking the plurality of first identifiers with the second identifier;
A management method comprising a first process. the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier are capable of transmitting and receiving radio waves;
The management method according to claim 1 , wherein a reachable distance of the radio waves from the transmitter is longer than a reachable distance of the radio waves from each of the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier. The management method according to claim 2, wherein the plurality of first identifiers are linked to the second identifiers by passing the group of items through a first reader. the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier are RFID tags;
The management method according to claim 3 , wherein the first reader is an RFID reader. Each of the item data is
First identification data;
second identification data relating to the design, different from the first identification data;
Including,
The second identification data includes constituent unit data indicating a constituent unit of a product,
The management method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the plurality of items to which common constituent unit data is assigned are grouped into the item group. The constituent units are determined for each classified function of the product,
The management method according to claim 5 , wherein the group of items is a plurality of parts for producing a unit having one of a plurality of the functions. The management method according to claim 1, further comprising a transport process for transporting the group of items to a moving body after the first process. In the transport process,
Calculating the position of the group of articles using radio waves transmitted from the transmitter;
The group of articles is transported by the moving body from the position to another position.
The management method according to claim 7. the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier are capable of transmitting and receiving radio waves;
The management method according to claim 8 , wherein, in the transport process, the moving body transporting the group of items from the position to the other position passes a second reader, and the second reader reads the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier. Linking a plurality of item data indicating information of a plurality of items, respectively, to a plurality of first identifiers;
A first transmitter attached to the group of items in which the plurality of items are grouped is associated with a second identifier;
A management device that associates the plurality of first identifiers with the second identifier. The management device according to claim 10, which links the plurality of first identifiers read by a first reader with the second identifier read by the first reader. The moving body that conveyed the group of articles is passed through the first reader;
The management device according to claim 11 , further comprising: causing the moving body to transport the group of articles that have passed the first reader to a first position. the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier are RFID tags;
The management device according to claim 12 , wherein the first reader is an RFID reader. passing the moving body, which conveys the group of articles from the first position to the second position, through a second reader;
The management device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein the plurality of first identifiers and the second identifier are read by the second reader. The management device according to claim 14, wherein the position of a second transmitter different from the first transmitter is used as the second position. The management device according to claim 14, wherein the status of each of the plurality of items is updated according to the results of reading the plurality of first identifiers by each of the first reader and the second reader. Each of the item data is
First identification data;
second identification data relating to the design, different from the first identification data;
Including,
The second identification data includes constituent unit data indicating a constituent unit of a product,
14. The management device according to claim 10, further comprising: extracting the plurality of articles to which the common constituent unit data is assigned from the entirety of the articles. The constituent units are determined for each classified function of the product,
The management device according to claim 17 , wherein the group of items is a plurality of parts for producing a unit having one of a plurality of the functions. The management device according to any one of claims 10 to 13, which displays on a display unit the location of the first transmitter and the planned date on which any one of the plurality of items is to be used. The management device according to claim 19, further displaying on the display unit the position to which the group of items is transported in the first area. a third reader reads the first identifier removed from any of the articles that have been used;
The management device according to any one of claims 10 to 13, further comprising: updating a progress of production in which any one of the parts is used, according to a result of reading the removed first identifier by the third reader. A management device according to any one of claims 10 to 13,
a first reader for reading the plurality of first identifiers;
A moving body that transports the group of articles;
A management system equipped with On the computer,
Linking a plurality of item data indicating information of a plurality of items, respectively, to a plurality of first identifiers;
A first transmitter attached to the group of items in which the plurality of items are grouped is associated with a second identifier;
Linking the plurality of first identifiers to the second identifier;
program. A storage medium storing the program according to claim 23.

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