HK1226829A1 - Programmable display and control method - Google Patents

Description

Programmable display and control method

Technical Field

The invention relates to a programmable display for a control device.

Background

The programmable display device includes at least: a display unit for displaying an image, an input unit for touch input, an interface for communication with a controller such as a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), and a control unit for controlling the above units. The programmable display is an operation type display having a function of displaying an operation state of the controller on an image displayed on the display unit and receiving an operation input for giving a control instruction to the controller from the input unit on the display unit. In general, a programmable display has a graphic display function, and thus can function as an operation terminal of a control system by displaying an operation panel, a switch, a display lamp, and the like on a prepared image. In the control system, display of the operation status and the like of each controller and control instruction to the controller are performed by a programmable display disposed in the vicinity of the controller.

In addition, the programmable display stores various data generated inside and outside. As the above data, data (entry data, report data) as a result of the control operation is generated in the controller or the programmable display. As the data, data (method data) for controlling the controller is stored in the external memory and acquired by the programmable display as necessary.

Documents of the prior art

Patent document

Patent document 1, Japanese laid-open patent publication (Japanese patent application laid-open No. 2010-278941 (published on 12.9.2010))

Conventionally, a programmable display is mounted on each FA device and machine to be controlled by the programmable display. Therefore, in a factory in which a plurality of FA devices and the like are arranged, programmable displays corresponding to the number of FA devices and the like are required, and as a result, there is a problem that the equipment cost of the entire factory increases.

When data is acquired from the external memory to the programmable display or data is acquired from the programmable display, data input and output are performed via wireless communication or wired communication, which is difficult from the viewpoint of communication stability, reliability, or safety. Therefore, conventionally, input/output of the created method data is performed via a portable memory such as a USB memory. Since the periodic inspection of each device in the plant is performed for a plurality of devices, the inspection is performed by the user viewing data indicating the state of each device output or displayed on the programmable display. Therefore, there is a possibility that an artificial error is generated in the inspection result. Accordingly, the conventional programmable display has a problem of low convenience in inputting and outputting data.

Disclosure of Invention

The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to provide a programmable display device capable of suppressing the cost of the device and improving the convenience of data input/output.

In order to solve the above problem, a programmable display device according to the present invention includes: a touch panel that displays an operation image for accepting an input operation by a user, an input control unit that specifies a process based on the input operation with respect to the operation image, a device control unit that controls a device based on the process specified by the input control unit, a device information acquisition unit that acquires data related to the device, and a display control unit that displays a data image based on the acquired data on the touch panel, the programmable display including: a cradle unit that includes the device control unit, the device information acquisition unit, and a cradle communication unit that transmits and receives information to and from the outside by short-range wireless communication, and that is connected to the device to be controlled; and a handwriting unit that includes the touch panel, the input control unit, the display control unit, and a handwriting communication unit that transmits and receives information to and from the outside by short-range wireless communication, and that is attachable to and detachable from the cradle unit, wherein the cradle unit and the handwriting unit transmit and receive information to and from each other using the cradle communication unit and the handwriting communication unit.

In order to solve the above-described problems, a method of controlling a programmable display according to the present invention is a method of controlling a programmable display including a cradle unit having a cradle communication unit for transmitting and receiving information to and from an outside, the cradle unit being connected to the device to be controlled, and a handwriting communication unit having a handwriting communication unit for transmitting and receiving information to and from the outside, the handwriting communication unit being detachably attached to the cradle unit, the method including: a confirmation signal receiving step of receiving a confirmation signal from the cradle communication unit, which is a short-range wireless signal for confirming whether or not the cradle unit is connected to the handwriting unit, by the handwriting communication unit; a response signal transmission step of transmitting a response signal, which is the short-range wireless signal for responding to the confirmation signal, by the handwriting communication unit; and a short-range wireless communication start step in which the cradle communication unit and the handwriting communication unit start transmission and reception of information using short-range wireless communication.

According to the above configuration, the programmable display device of the present invention can be separated from the handwriting portion with respect to the cradle portion connected to the device to be controlled. The cradle unit mainly controls the device and acquires information from the device, and the handwriting unit includes a touch panel and mainly performs input control and display control.

Thus, the user can control the device by connecting the handwriting portion to the cradle portion connected to the device to be controlled. In other words, only the cradle portion is required to be the number corresponding to the number of devices, and the handwriting portion does not need to be prepared the number corresponding to the number of devices. Therefore, the equipment cost can be suppressed.

In addition, according to the above configuration, the handwriting portion can be attached to and detached from the tray portion, and thus can be detached and transported. Thus, when data is transmitted and received between an information processing device independent from a communication network including a device and the device, the data is stored in the handwriting portion, and when the information processing device or the device (cradle portion) is connected, the data can be transmitted and received automatically or by a user operation. In the case of performing an inspection or the like over a plurality of devices, a handwriting unit is connected to each device, and necessary data is output and displayed, thereby enabling the inspection.

Accordingly, a programmable display device can be provided which can suppress the cost at the time of mounting and improve the convenience of data input/output.

In addition, according to the above configuration, the programmable display of the present invention transmits and receives information to and from each other between the handwriting unit and the stand unit by using the short-range wireless communication. In other words, if the handwriting portion and the cradle portion are not close to each other, the handwriting portion and the cradle portion cannot transmit and receive information. Therefore, since an unspecified number of persons cannot control the device using the handwriting portion from a position away from the device, safety can be improved in the programmable display in which the handwriting portion and the cradle portion can be separated.

The programmable display according to each aspect of the present invention may be realized by a computer, and in this case, a control program for realizing the programmable display of the programmable display by the computer by operating the computer as each means provided in the programmable display and a computer-readable recording medium recording the control program also fall within the scope of the present invention.

The effects of the present invention are as follows.

The present invention has an effect of providing a programmable display that can suppress the cost at the time of mounting and improve the convenience of data input/output.

Drawings

Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system including a programmable display according to embodiment 1 of the present invention.

Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an appearance of a handwriting portion of the programmable display according to embodiment 1 of the present invention.

Fig. 3 is a schematic view showing an external appearance of a holder portion of a programmable display according to embodiment 1 of the present invention.

Fig. 4 is a transition diagram showing a flow of connection between the handwriting portion and the cradle portion of the programmable display according to embodiment 1 of the present invention.

Fig. 5 is a schematic view showing an external appearance of the business use cradle of the present invention.

Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of the programmable display according to embodiment 1 of the present invention.

Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system including a programmable display according to embodiment 2 of the present invention.

Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing of the programmable display according to embodiment 2 of the present invention.

Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system including a programmable display according to a modification of embodiment 2 of the present invention.

Fig. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system including a programmable display according to a modification of embodiment 1 or 2 of the present invention.

Fig. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system including a programmable display according to another modification of embodiment 1 or 2 of the present invention.

Detailed Description

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail. For convenience of explanation, members having the same functions as those of the members shown in the embodiments are given the same reference numerals, and explanations thereof are appropriately omitted. The dimensions such as the shape, length, size, and width of the structure shown in the drawings do not reflect the actual shape and dimensions, and are appropriately changed to clarify and simplify the drawings.

< embodiment 1 >

An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to fig. 1 to 6.

[ constitution of control System ]

First, the configuration of the control system 1 according to the present invention will be described with reference to fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system 1 including a programmable display 2 according to the present embodiment.

As shown in fig. 1, a control system 1 according to the present embodiment includes a programmable display 2, a programmable logic controller 5 (hereinafter referred to as "PLC 5"), and a device 6. Further, a plurality of devices 6 may be provided.

[ constitution of PLC ]

The PLC5 as an external device acquires the state of the device 6 of the input source via the input unit, and gives a control instruction to the device 6 of the output destination via the output unit. The PLC5 performs the above-described operations for each predetermined scanning time, for example, several tens of ms, based on a sequence program (ladder program or the like) created by the user.

As the input source device 6, a device such as a sensor (temperature sensor, optical sensor, or the like) or a switch (push switch, limit switch, pressure switch, or the like) can be used. As the device 6 of the output destination, an actuator, a relay, an electromagnetic valve, a display, or the like can be used. These devices 6 are disposed in required parts of various FA apparatuses and the like in a production line and constitute a part of the control system 1.

The device 6 may be a specific area of the data memory 431 provided for storing data input by the user from the touch panel 31 described later. The device 6 may be a specific area of memory within the PLC 5.

The memory (device memory) in the PLC5 stores data (word data, bit data) indicating the state of the device 6 (output value from the device 6, set value set for the device 6) in an area specified by the device address. In the above memory, a word device and a bit device are set. The word device is set as an area of word data such as a data storage numerical value to be input and output, and is specified by a word address (device address). The bit device is set as an area for storing bit data in on/off states and is specified by a bit address (device address). Thus, by designating a device address and accessing an arbitrary word device or bit device in the memory, the device 6 can be controlled to individually fetch data on the state of the device 6.

[ constitution of programmable display ]

(basic function of programmable display)

The programmable display 2 includes a cpu (central processing unit) that executes commands of an HMI control program for realizing each function, a rom (read Only memory) that stores the HMI control program, a ram (random Access memory) that allows the HMI control program to be developed, a storage device (recording medium) such as a memory that stores the HMI control program and various data, and the like. The programmable display 2 is a dedicated computer that displays image data for display and input operations created by a user to realize operation functions and display functions specific to the programmable display, and is preferably used as an HMI device. The image data is created by combining process specifying information that specifies various processes related to an input operation and a display operation. The programmable display 2 can specify the operation of the state of the display device 6 based on the image data and can control the operation of the state of the device 6 in accordance with the input operation.

The programmable display 2 communicates with the PLC5 via the communication cable 50 by its communication function, acquires the state of each device 6 stored in the memory of the PLC5 as entry data or report data, and displays the state of each device 6 on the display unit 312, which will be described later, for example. The programmable display 2 transmits a control instruction including method data to the PLC5 in response to an input operation to the input unit 311, which will be described later, through its communication function.

Note that the state of the device 6 may be instructed every time it is acquired or changed, and the PLC5 may be communicated with a memory space (for example, a data memory 431 described later) in the programmable display 2 at predetermined time intervals and at predetermined signal (event) intervals, while accessing the memory space, and may be synchronized with the actual state to which the respective addresses are assigned.

(constitution of each part of programmable display)

The programmable display 2 of the present embodiment includes a handwriting unit 3 and a holder unit 4. That is, the programmable display 2 of the present embodiment is configured to be separable from the bracket portion 4 with respect to the handwriting portion 3. The external appearance of the handwriting unit 3 and the holder unit 4, and the method of attaching and detaching the handwriting unit 3 and the holder unit 4 will be described later. The programmable display 2 includes a touch panel 31, a control unit 32, a storage unit 33, an NFC unit 34 (handwriting communication unit), a power receiving unit 35 (power acquisition unit), and an external power supply detection unit 36 in the handwriting unit 3. The programmable display 2 includes an input unit 41, a control unit 42, a storage unit 43, an NFC unit 44 (cradle communication unit), a power supply unit 45 (power supply unit), a display unit 46, and an interface (I/F) unit 47 in the cradle unit 4. Hereinafter, main parts of the programmable display 2 will be described.

(constitution of each part of handwriting part)

The touch panel 31 includes an input unit 311 and a display unit 312. The input unit 311 is an input device for inputting an instruction signal to the programmable display 2 by a user. The input unit 311 is configured by a touch surface that receives contact (including proximity) by a pointer (such as a finger of a user), and a touch sensor that detects contact between the pointer and the touch surface and an input position based on the contact. The touch sensor may be implemented by any sensor as long as it can detect contact/non-contact between the pointer and the touch surface. For example, it can be realized by a pressure sensor, a capacitance sensor, an optical sensor, or the like. Specifically, the input unit 311 supplies a signal generated by a touch operation of the user to an input processing unit 321 described later.

The display portion 312 is a display device that displays information processed by the programmable display 2. Information processed by a display processing unit 322 described later is displayed on the display unit 312. For example, an operation image for accepting an operation for controlling the device 6 is displayed on the display unit 312. The display unit 312 is formed of a display device such as an LCD (liquid crystal display).

The control unit 32 processes the instruction signal mainly input from the input unit 311 or the information displayed on the display unit 312 based on the acquired signal or information. The control unit 32 includes an input processing unit 321 (input control means), a display processing unit 322 (display control means), and a user authentication unit 323 (function restriction means, user information determination means). The control unit 32 may include various components for using the handwriting unit 3 as a normal handwriting terminal.

The input processing unit 321 specifies predetermined processing specifying information based on the presence or absence of a touch operation and the coordinate information of the touch position, which are clarified based on the signal of the touch operation by the user detected by the input unit 311. Then, the specific process designation information is supplied to the NFC unit 34. The input processing unit 321 then supplies the display processing unit 322 with the presence or absence of a clear touch operation and coordinate information of the touch position. The input processing unit 321 may be configured to hold the coordinate information of the touch position in time series, and to be able to recognize the coordinate information of the trajectory of the touch operation that is continuously input for a predetermined period.

The display processing unit 322 generates an image to be displayed on the display unit 312 based on the information supplied from the NFC unit 34 or the input processing unit 321. Specifically, when the display processing unit 322 acquires information from the NFC unit 34 or the input processing unit 321, it acquires, based on the acquired information, method data stored in the data memory 331 of the storage unit 33 described later, image data stored in the image memory 332, and/or data (entry data, report data) indicating the state of the device 6 supplied from the NFC unit 34, and generates an image (data image) to be displayed on the display unit 312. Then, the generated image is displayed on the display unit 312. Alternatively, the display processing unit 322 acquires image data stored in the image memory 332 of the storage unit 33 described later, and generates the operation image.

The user authentication unit 323 limits the functions of each unit of the handwriting unit 3. The user authentication unit 323 identifies the user based on the information input by the user. Specifically, when the user authentication unit 323 acquires information input to the handwriting unit 3 in order to authenticate the user, it searches the user memory 333 of the storage unit described later for information matching the acquired information. When the information can be obtained in agreement, the function restriction of each part of the handwriting unit 3 is released. On the other hand, when the matching information cannot be acquired, the function restriction of each part of the handwriting unit 3 is maintained. When the handwriting unit 3 and the holder unit 4 are connected, that is, when both function as the programmable display 2, and the above-described matched information can be acquired, the function restriction of each unit of the handwriting unit 3 and the holder unit 4 is released, and the programmable display 2 can be used. The functional limitations of each part of handwriting unit 3 and bracket unit 4 are not particularly limited, and may be determined appropriately according to the situation of using handwriting unit 3 and programmable display 2, and the like. In addition, the input method of the information for user authentication is not particularly limited. For example, the password may be input through the touch panel 31, or the ID may be read through a reading unit not shown.

The NFC data specifying unit 324 specifies data (for example, method data) stored in the data memory 331 described later, which is to be transmitted to the cradle unit 4 (device 6) to which the handwriting unit 3 is connected. Specifically, when Information (ID) for uniquely identifying the cradle unit 4 or the device 6 acquired from the cradle unit 4 by the NFC unit 34 is supplied to the NFC data specifying unit 324, data having an ID matching the ID is read from the data memory 331. Then, the read data is supplied to the NFC unit 34. Thus, only by connecting handwriting unit 3 to bracket unit 4, it is possible to automatically specify data to be transmitted to the connected bracket unit 4 (device 6) from a plurality of data stored in handwriting unit 3.

The transmitted data may be specified by the user operating the touch panel 31.

The storage unit 33 stores various data in a non-transitory or transitory manner. The storage unit 33 includes a data memory 331, an image memory 332, a user memory 333, and a job memory 334. The storage unit 33 may store various data for using the handwriting unit 3 as a normal handwriting terminal.

The data memory 331 is composed of an sram (static Random Access memory) and a dram (dynamic Random Access memory), and stores various data generated outside or inside the programmable display 2. Since the data memory 331 stores different types of data as described above, it is not necessary to be configured with a single memory, but it is preferable to be configured with different types of memories according to the types of data, and even if the same memory is used, the storage area is different according to the type of data.

The data includes entry data, report data, and method data. The entry data is data obtained by the PLC5 from the device 6, data generated inside the programmable display 2, and stored in the data memory 331 together with the generation time. The report data is data created based on the entry data, and the result extracted under a predetermined condition is displayed. The method data is data supplied from the outside of the programmable display 2 as described above, and is supplied to the programmable display 2 via the USB memory, for example. Further, an ID for uniquely specifying method data for a certain device 6 is added in advance to the method data.

The image memory 332 is a memory for storing image files and the like, and can use a feprom (flasherable and Programmable rom). The image file is a file in which data of one or more images (unit images each composed of image data having a size of 1 frame) displayed on the programmable display 2 is stored. The image file is generally prepared as a design file of a set composed of a series of related plural image data corresponding to the control system 1 including the device 6, a product manufactured in the control system 1, and the like.

The image data is created by image creation software, and is configured to arrange a component image, a drawing, and a description text on the base image. As the component images, switches (on, off, change-over, push-button, and the like), lamps, numeric keys, various display means (for example, numerical value display means, meter display means, graph display means, alarm display means, and the like), and the like are prepared in the image creation software. In the component image, processing contents for realizing the functions are set as the processing specifying information. For example, processing specifying information specifying the processing contents of rewriting the value of the bit device specified by the desired bit address between "0" and "1" when the touch operation is performed is set in advance in the component image of the switch by the image creation software.

The user memory 333 is a memory for storing information for uniquely specifying a user who uses the programmable display 2 and the handwriting unit 3. The job memory 334 is used for jobs in arithmetic processing such as display processing.

The NFC unit 34 is a communication device that transmits and receives information by near field communication (hereinafter, also referred to as "NFC"). The NFC unit 34 operates by power supplied from the cradle unit 4 via a power supply unit 45 described later. The NFC unit 34 receives the above-described entry data, report data, and the like from the NFC unit 44 of the cradle unit 4, which will be described later, by short-range wireless communication. The NFC unit 34 supplies the received various data to the control unit 32 and stores the data in the storage unit 33. The NFC unit 34 transmits the above-described method data and process specification information based on the touch operation by the user to the NFC unit 44.

Power receiving unit 35 receives electric power from the outside of handwriting unit 3. Specifically, power receiving unit 35 receives electric power from power supply unit 45 of cradle unit 4 described later, and supplies the electric power to each unit (e.g., NFC unit 34) of handwriting unit 3. The power receiving unit 35 is assumed to be configured to connect the power-supplied unit 45 to the terminal, but is not limited to this configuration.

External power supply detection unit 36 (external power supply detection means) detects that electric power is supplied from the outside of handwriting unit 3. Specifically, the external power supply detection unit 36 detects that the power reception unit 35 receives power from the outside, and supplies the power to the NFC unit 34. The external power supply detection unit 36 is configured as a circuit for detecting an external power supply, for example.

Accordingly, the handwriting unit 3 has a function of main input and display among various functions of the programmable display 2.

(constitution of each part of bracket part)

The input unit 41 is an input device for inputting an instruction signal to the programmable display 2 by a user. The input unit 41 is preferably used for simple operation of the device 6 (simple operation such as RUN/STOP). Thereby, the device 6 can be operated when the handwriting portion 3 is not at hand. Specifically, the input unit 41 can stop and operate the device 6 in an emergency. For example, the key may be a physical key, or may be a touch panel. Alternatively, both of them may be provided. The cradle unit 4 may not include the input unit 41.

The controller 42 gives a control instruction of the device 6 to the PLC5 mainly based on the information supplied from the handwriting unit 3, and acquires information on the state of the device 6 from the PLC 5. The control unit 42 includes a device control unit 421 (apparatus control means), a device information acquisition unit 422 (apparatus information acquisition means), and a user authentication unit 423.

The device control section 421 controls the device 6. Specifically, the device control unit 421 communicates with the PLC5 based on the process specification information supplied from the NFC unit 44, thereby controlling the device 6. The device control unit 421 checks the method data supplied from the NFC unit 44, and transmits the checked method data to the PLC5 as necessary. At this time, the device control unit 421 refers to an address setting file described later, and writes method data in the PLC 5. Specifically, the device control unit 421 reads out a plurality of data in the data format set in the address setting file from the method data supplied from the NFC unit 44, and writes in the address (device address) of the PLC5 set in the address setting file.

The device information acquisition unit 422 acquires information on the state (operating state) of the device 6. Specifically, the device information acquiring unit 422 communicates with the PLC5 at predetermined time intervals and at predetermined signals, thereby acquiring the state of the device 6 connected to the PLC5 as state data from the device memory of the PLC 5. Then, the device information acquisition unit 422 supplies the acquired state data to the NFC unit 44. The device information acquiring unit 422 may store the acquired state data in the storage unit 43, or may display the acquired state data on the display unit 46 when the handwriting unit 3 and the cradle unit 4 are not connected.

The user authentication unit 423 restricts the functions of each unit of the cradle unit 4. The user authentication unit 423 specifies a user based on information input by the user. Specifically, when the user authentication unit 423 acquires information input to the cradle unit 4 in order to authenticate the user, it searches the user memory 433 of the storage unit, which will be described later, for information that matches the acquired information. When the information can be obtained in accordance with the information, the function restriction of each part of the bracket portion 4 is released. On the other hand, when the matching information cannot be acquired, the function restriction of each part of the bracket portion 4 is maintained. The functional limitations of each part of the bracket unit 4 are not particularly limited, and may be appropriately determined according to the situation of using the bracket unit 4 and the programmable display 2, and the like. In addition, the input method of the information for user authentication is not particularly limited. For example, the password may be input via the touch panel 31, or the user ID may be read via a reading unit not shown.

The storage unit 43 stores various data in a non-temporary manner or a temporary manner. The storage unit 43 includes a data memory 431, a setting memory 432, a user memory 433, and a work memory 434.

The data memory 431 is formed of SRAM or DRAM, and stores various data generated outside or inside the programmable display 2. Since the data memory 431 stores different types of data as described above, it is not necessary to constitute a single memory, but it is preferable to constitute different types of memories according to the types of data, and to make the storage areas different according to the types of data even in the same memory. The above-mentioned data includes the above-mentioned entry data, report data, and method data.

The setting memory 432 stores an address setting file. The address setting file is referred to when the device control unit 421 instructs the PLC5 to read log data, report data, and write method data, and sets device addresses for reading and writing the log data, the report data, and the method data, and various information on the log data, the report data, and the method data. The setting memory 432 may store Information (ID) for uniquely identifying the cradle portion 4 or the device 6.

The user memory 433 is a memory for storing information for uniquely specifying the user who uses the cradle portion 4. The work memory 434 is used for temporarily storing data to be exchanged with the PLC 5.

The data stored in the various memories of the storage unit 33 and the storage unit 43 are examples, and are not limited to the above examples. For example, a setting memory may be present in the storage unit 33 of the handwriting unit 3, or an image memory may be present in the storage unit 43 of the cradle unit 4.

The NFC unit 44 is a communication device that transmits and receives information by near field communication, as in the case of the NFC unit 34. The NFC unit 44 supplies power to the cradle unit 4, and operates with power from a power supply unit in the FA device, not shown. The NFC unit 44 receives the data and the processing specification information from the NFC unit 34 by the proximity wireless communication. The NFC unit 44 transmits the entry data and the report data to the NFC unit 34 by the proximity wireless communication. The NFC unit 44 periodically outputs a polling NFC signal to check whether or not the handwriting unit 3 is connected to the cradle unit 4. In other words, when the handwriting unit 3 is connected to the cradle unit 4, the response signal from the NFC unit 34 is output in response to the polling NFC signal. This enables the NFC unit 34 and the NFC unit 44 to transmit and receive information by the proximity wireless communication.

The power supply unit 45 supplies electric power to the outside of the bracket unit 4. Specifically, the power supply unit 45 receives electric power from a power supply unit in the FA equipment, not shown, and supplies the electric power to the power receiving unit 35 of the handwriting unit 3 connected to the cradle unit 4. The power feeding unit 45 is assumed to be connected to the power receiving unit 35 and the terminal, but is not limited to this configuration.

The display unit 46 is a display device that displays information processed by the programmable display 2. Specifically, when the handwriting unit 3 and the cradle unit 4 are not connected, the display unit 46 displays the state data of the device 6 acquired by the device information acquisition unit 422. The bracket portion 4 may be configured without the display portion 46.

The interface unit 47 is a communication control unit for performing communication between the programmable display 2 and the PLC 5. The interface 47 is configured to perform serial communication, USB communication, or network communication in accordance with the manufacturer or model of the PLC 5.

[ outer appearance of handwriting part and holder part ]

Next, the external appearance of the handwriting portion 3 and the holder portion 4 will be described with reference to fig. 2 and 3. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing an external appearance of handwriting portion 3, and fig. 3 is a schematic diagram showing an external appearance of bracket portion 4.

First, the appearance of the handwriting unit 3 will be described. The external appearance of the handwriting unit 3 shown in fig. 2 is an example, and components other than those shown below may be provided. For example, a USB connector or the like may be provided. As shown in fig. 2(a), the handwriting portion 3 includes a touch panel 31 on one surface thereof. Hereinafter, the surface of the handwriting unit 3 having the touch panel 31 is referred to as "front surface" of the handwriting unit 3.

As shown in fig. 2 b, the handwriting portion 3 includes a power receiving portion 35, a power switch 37, and a hook 38 (the 1 st connecting portion) on the surface (the reverse surface) opposite to the front surface. Hereinafter, the surface of handwriting unit 3 opposite to the front surface is referred to as "the back surface" of handwriting unit 3.

The power receiving unit 35 is configured as a terminal in fig. 2 (b). Power receiving unit 35 is disposed at a position connected to power supply unit 45 when handwriting unit 3 and carriage unit 4 are connected. The power receiving unit 35 is an example of a terminal configuration, and is not limited to this configuration. The power switch 37 is a switch for supplying power to the handwriting unit 3 and enabling the handwriting unit 3 to operate.

The hook 38 is a hook-shaped member shown in fig. 2 (c). The hook 38 may have a hinge as shown in fig. 2 (c). That is, the hook 38 shown in fig. 2(c) is configured such that a portion parallel to the back surface can rotate about the hinge.

Next, the appearance of the bracket portion 4 will be described. The external appearance of the bracket portion 4 shown in fig. 3 is an example, and components other than those shown below may be provided. For example, a physical key or the like for operating the device may be provided.

As shown in fig. 3(a), the bracket portion 4 includes a display portion 46 on one surface thereof. Hereinafter, the surface of the display unit 46 having the bracket unit 4 will be referred to as "front surface" of the bracket unit 4. The bracket portion 4 includes a power supply portion 45 and a magnet 49 (3 rd connection portion) on the front surface thereof.

The power supply portion 45 is configured as a terminal in fig. 3 (a). Power supply unit 45 is disposed at a position connected to power receiving unit 35 when handwriting unit 3 and holder unit 4 are connected. The power feeding unit 45 is illustrated as an example of a terminal configuration, but is not limited to this configuration.

Magnet 49 maintains the connection between handwriting unit 3 and bracket unit 4 by magnetic force when it contacts the back surface of handwriting unit 3. That is, the back surface of handwriting portion 3 is made of metal attracted to a magnet. The type and material of the magnet 49 are not particularly limited as long as the magnet can attach and detach the handwriting unit 3 and the bracket unit 4.

As shown in fig. 3 b, the surface of the bracket portion 4 which is the upper surface when connected to the device 6 includes a recess 48 (the 2 nd connecting portion). Hereinafter, a surface of the bracket portion 4 which becomes an upper surface when connected to the device 6 is referred to as an "upper surface" of the bracket portion 4.

The recess 48 is a rectangular recess. Specifically, the recess is a recess into which the hook 38 of the handwriting portion 3 is inserted. That is, in fig. 3(b), the shape is rectangular, but this is an example, and if the hook 38 can be inserted, the shape, size, depth, and other dimensions are not particularly limited.

As shown in fig. 3(a), the handwriting unit 3 and the holder unit 4 are connected, so that the front surface of the holder unit 4 can be completely hidden by the handwriting unit 3. For example, the area of the front surface of the holder portion 4 may be set to such an extent that the handwriting portion 3 can be connected by a connection method described later, and thus the area occupied by the holder portion 4 in the device 6 can be reduced.

[ connecting method of handwriting part and bracket part ]

Next, a method of attaching the handwriting portion 3 and the holder portion 4 will be described with reference to fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a transition diagram showing a flow of connection between the handwriting unit 3 and the bracket unit 4. First, as shown in fig. 4(a), the hook 38 of the handwriting portion 3 is inserted into the recess 48 of the bracket portion 4. At this time, it is preferable to rotate the end portion of the hook 38 (the portion inserted into the concave portion 48) in advance in a direction away from the housing of the handwriting portion 3 so that the hook 38 can be easily inserted. Next, as shown in fig. 4(b), the housing of the handwriting portion 3 is pressed toward the cradle portion 4. As a result, as shown in fig. 4(c), the back surface of the handwriting portion 3 is magnetically fixed by being in contact with the magnet 49 of the bracket portion 4.

Accordingly, the handwriting portion 3 and the bracket portion 4 of the present embodiment are connected by two fixing methods, i.e., fixing by inserting the hook 38 into the recess 48 and fixing by magnetic force by bringing the back surface of the handwriting portion 3 into contact with the magnet 49. This allows the handwriting portion 3 and the bracket portion 4 to be connected easily and stably.

In the method of separating handwriting unit 3 from bracket unit 4, first, the frame of handwriting unit 3 is pulled in a direction away from bracket unit 4, thereby releasing the fixation by the magnetic force between the back surface of handwriting unit 3 and magnet 49. Next, the handwriting portion 3 is lifted up, and the hook 38 is pulled out from the concave portion 48. Accordingly, the handwriting unit 3 can be separated from the cradle unit 4 by a simple method.

[ use of handwriting part and cradle part alone ]

Next, the use of the single writing section 3 and the single bracket section 4 will be described. First, the handwriting unit 3 is separated from the holder unit 4, and a normal handwriting terminal can be used. At this time, the handwriting unit 3 is operated by a power supply unit (battery) not shown. Further, from the viewpoint of safety, it is preferable that the handwriting section 3 can be used only by a limited user (a worker in a factory, or the like). Therefore, the handwriting unit 3 can also perform user authentication. The method of user authentication is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, input of a password or reading of a user ID by short-range wireless communication.

Further, the cradle unit 4 can move information stored in another information processing apparatus by storing information acquired from the PLC5 in the storage unit 33 of the handwriting unit 3.

Here, a case will be described in which information is moved to a personal computer for business use as an example of moving information acquired from the PLC5 to another information processing apparatus. In general, a personal computer for business use is often installed in a place different from a place (a factory or the like) where FA equipment or the like is installed. In addition, personal computers for business use are often independent from a communication network (such as a LAN) in a factory from the viewpoint of security and safety. Therefore, if the programmable display is provided in the FA device or the like as in the related art, when information acquired from the programmable display is processed by a personal computer for business use, it is necessary to input and output information via a USB memory or the like, and there is a problem that convenience is impaired.

On the other hand, in the case of the programmable display 2 of the present embodiment, information such as entry data and report data is stored in the storage unit of the handwriting unit 3, and when the handwriting unit 3 is separated from the cradle unit 4, the handwriting unit 3 can be transported to a place where a personal computer for business use is installed. Further, when the handwriting unit 3 is connected to a personal computer for business use, the stored information can be moved to the personal computer for business use.

Fig. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an external appearance of the office tray 40 used when the handwriting portion 3 is connected to the personal computer for office. As shown in fig. 5(a), office holder 40 includes power supply unit 405 and magnet 409 on the surface that contacts the back surface of handwriting unit 3. Hereinafter, the surface of office tray 40 that contacts the back surface of handwriting unit 3 is referred to as the "front surface" of office tray 40. The power supply portion 405 and the magnet 409 are the same as the power supply portion 45 and the magnet 49 of the bracket portion 4, respectively, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted.

The surface of the business use tray 40 that becomes the upper surface when installed (hereinafter referred to as the "upper surface" of the business use tray 40) includes a recess 408. The recess 408 is the same as the recess 48 of the bracket portion 4, and therefore, the description thereof is omitted.

In other words, the handwriting unit 3 and the bracket unit 4 are connected as shown in fig. 5(b) by the same method as the above-described method of connecting the handwriting unit 3 and the bracket unit 4. This enables the handwriting unit 3 to communicate with a personal computer for business use via the communication cable 400. Therefore, it is possible to acquire entry data and report data from the handwriting unit 3, and store method data created by a personal computer for business use in the handwriting unit 3.

The connection of the handwriting unit 3 to an information processing device such as a personal computer for business use is not limited to the above example. For example, the handwriting unit 3 and the information processing apparatus may be directly connected by USB connection. However, the use of office bracket 40 has an advantage that the user does not need to hold handwriting part 3 when connecting the office personal computer and handwriting part 3.

Further, since the handwriting section 3 and the bracket section 4 are separable, the number of necessary handwriting sections 3 may be smaller than the number of bracket sections 4 required to correspond to the number of FA devices and the like. For example, it is possible to transmit method data corresponding to each device to a plurality of different devices using one handwriting unit 3, and to store entry data and report data acquired from the plurality of different devices in one handwriting unit 3.

Next, the use of the bracket portion 4 alone will be described. As described above, the bracket portion 4 can display the simple state of the device 6 and can easily operate the device 6 by itself. The simple operation specifically means stopping, starting, and the like of the device 6. Thus, even when the handwriting unit 3 is not present, the device 6 can be stopped in a situation where the device 6 should be stopped, such as in an emergency. Further, the operation of the device 6 by the bracket portion 4 is preferably configured to be performed only by a limited user. Therefore, the cradle unit 4 can also perform user authentication. The method of user authentication is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, input of a password or reading of a user ID by short-range wireless communication.

[ procedure for processing programmable display ]

Next, a flow of processing of the programmable display 2 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of the connection detection processing of the handwriting unit 3.

First, when handwriting unit 3 is activated (yes at S1), external power supply detection unit 36 determines whether or not electric power is supplied from the outside to the handwriting unit (S2). Specifically, external power supply detection unit 36 detects the power supplied from power supply unit 45 to power reception unit 35. Here, when the external power source detection unit 36 detects the electric power supplied from the power supply unit 45 to the power reception unit 35 (yes in S2), the external power source detection unit 36 supplies the electric power to the NFC unit 34. This activates the NFC unit 34 and detects the connection of the handwriting unit 3 to the cradle unit 4.

Next, when the activated NFC unit 34 receives the confirmation signal transmitted from the NFC unit 44 (yes in S3, confirmation signal reception step), it transmits a response signal to the confirmation signal to the NFC unit 44(S4, response signal transmission step). Here, the confirmation signal is a short-range wireless signal transmitted from NFC unit 44 and is a signal transmitted to confirm whether or not cradle unit 4 is connected to handwriting unit 3. By the transmission and reception of the confirmation signal and the response signal, it is possible to determine that the cradle unit 4 is connected to the handwriting unit 3. Finally, transmission and reception of information between the NFC unit 34 and the NFC unit 44 are started (S5, near field wireless communication start step).

[ Effect of the invention in embodiment 1 ]

Accordingly, the programmable display 2 of the present embodiment includes the cradle portion 4 connected to the FA device or the like to be controlled and the handwriting portion 3 detachably attached to the cradle portion 4. Accordingly, only the cradle unit 4 is required to be the number corresponding to the number of FA devices and the like, and the handwriting unit 3 does not need to prepare the number corresponding to the number of FA devices and the like. Therefore, the equipment cost can be suppressed.

Further, since the handwriting unit 3 can be transported, when data is transmitted and received between an information processing apparatus independent of a communication network including FA equipment and the FA equipment, the handwriting unit 3 may be connected to the cradle unit 4 after the data is transmitted from the information processing apparatus to the handwriting unit 3, or may be connected to only the information processing apparatus by separating the handwriting unit 3 from the cradle unit 4 after the data acquired from the device 6 is stored in the handwriting unit 3.

Since the data acquired from the device 6 is stored and transported to the handwriting unit 3, when the inspection is performed over a plurality of FA apparatuses and the like, the handwriting unit 3 may be connected to the holder unit 4 provided for each FA apparatus and the like, and only necessary data may be acquired. This can reduce the possibility of human error in the inspection. This can improve convenience of data input/output.

The handwriting unit 3 and the cradle unit 4 transmit and receive various kinds of information by the near field communication between the NFC unit 34 and the NFC unit 44, respectively. In other words, if the handwriting unit 3 and the cradle unit 4 are not close to each other, the information cannot be transmitted and received. Accordingly, since the user located at a position separated from the FA equipment or the like cannot control the device 6 using the handwriting unit 3, safety can be improved in the programmable display 2 in which the handwriting unit 3 and the cradle unit 4 can be separated.

When connected to the cradle unit 4, the NFC unit 34 operates with electric power supplied from the cradle unit 4 to the handwriting unit 3, instead of a power supply unit (internal battery), not shown, of the handwriting unit 3. Further, the external power supply detection unit 36 detects the power supplied from the cradle unit 4, supplies power to the NFC unit 34, and starts the proximity wireless communication with the NFC unit 44. Accordingly, the NFC unit 34 operates only when the handwriting unit 3 is connected to the cradle unit 4. NFC unit 34 operates by the power supplied from holder unit 4 to start communication with NFC unit 44, and holder unit 4 can recognize connection with handwriting unit 3. In addition, power consumption of handwriting unit 3 can be reduced.

The user authentication unit 323 can limit the functions of the handwriting unit 3 (the programmable display 2 when the handwriting unit 3 and the cradle unit 4 are connected). The user authentication unit 423 can limit the functions of the cradle unit 4. The user authentication unit 323 and the user authentication unit 423 release the restriction when the user information input from the outside matches the user information stored in the user memory 333 and the user memory 433, respectively. This enables only a registered user to use the handwriting unit 3, the cradle unit 4, and the programmable display 2 when these are connected. This prevents an unspecified number of personal control devices 6 from using the handwriting unit 3.

The back surface of the handwriting portion 3 is made of metal, and a hook 38 having a hook shape is provided on the back surface. On the other hand, the bracket portion 4 has a concave recess 48 on its upper surface and a magnet 49 on its front surface. Thus, the fixing can be performed by two fixing methods, namely, fixing by inserting the hook 38 into the recess 48 and fixing by magnetic force by contacting the back surface of the handwriting portion 3 with the magnet 49. Therefore, the handwriting unit 3 and the bracket unit 4 can be connected simply and stably. Further, the convex shape can be easily separated from the concave shape by inserting the convex shape into the concave shape and by fixing the magnet.

[ modification of embodiment 1 ]

Next, a modification of embodiment 1 will be described. In the present modification, power receiving unit 35 of handwriting unit 3 and power feeding unit 45 of bracket unit 4 are configured to wirelessly supply power. In other words, when the handwriting unit 3 and the bracket unit 4 are connected, electric power is supplied from the bracket unit 4 to the handwriting unit 3 by wireless communication.

Thus, the power receiving portion 35 and the power feeding portion 45 are configured such that the terminals are not exposed. Therefore, there is an advantage that the problem caused by the configuration of "power is always supplied to power supply unit 45" in embodiment 1 described later in embodiment 2 does not occur.

< embodiment 2 >

Another embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to fig. 7 and 8. In the present embodiment, the programmable display 21 that performs the drip-proof process on the power supply unit 45 will be described.

When power receiving unit 35 and power feeding unit 45 in embodiment 1 are terminals, power feeding unit 45 is exposed when handwriting unit 3 is separated from cradle unit 4. In the configuration of embodiment 1, electric power is always supplied to power supply unit 45. Here, in a factory for manufacturing foods, medicines, and the like, it is frequent that liquid falls onto FA equipment and the like, and in this case, if liquid adheres to the power supply unit 45 to which power is supplied, it causes a short circuit.

Therefore, programmable display 21 according to the present embodiment is configured to supply power to power supply unit 45 only when handwriting unit 7 is connected to bracket unit 8. Accordingly, when power supply portion 45 is exposed, power is not supplied to power supply portion 45, and therefore the possibility of occurrence of a short circuit can be reduced. Here, in order to determine whether or not the handwriting unit 7 is connected to the cradle unit 8, it is determined whether or not the near field communication between the NFC unit 34 and the NFC unit 44 can be performed. This will be described in detail later.

[ constitution of programmable display ]

Next, the structure of the programmable display 21 will be described with reference to fig. 7. Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the control system 1 including the programmable display 21 according to the present embodiment.

The handwriting unit 7 of the present embodiment includes a power supply unit 71. The power supply unit 71 is a battery and supplies electric power for operating the handwriting unit 7. That is, the NFC unit 34 of the present embodiment is configured to be activated by power from the power supply unit 71 of the handwriting unit 7. Note that NFC unit 34 may be configured to operate with power supplied from power supply unit 45 after handwriting unit 7 and cradle unit 8 are connected. Thus, in addition to the short-range wireless communication for confirming the connection of the handwriting unit 7 and the cradle unit 8, the NFC unit 34 is also operated by the electric power supplied from the cradle unit 8, and therefore, the power consumption of the handwriting unit 7 can be reduced. In handwriting unit 7 of the present embodiment, external power supply detection unit 36 provided in handwriting unit 3 of embodiment 1 can be omitted.

The carriage unit 8 of the present embodiment includes a power supply determination unit 81 (power control means and communication determination means). Power supply determination unit 81 determines whether or not information can be transmitted and received by short-range wireless communication with handwriting unit 3, and supplies power to power supply unit 45 when the information can be transmitted and received. Specifically, when information indicating that the response signal from the NFC unit 34 is present is supplied from the NFC unit 44, the power supply determination unit 81 supplies power from a power supply unit such as an FA device, not shown, to the power supply unit 45. Accordingly, when the NFC unit 34 and the NFC unit 44 cannot perform the short-range wireless communication, that is, when the handwriting unit 7 and the cradle unit 8 are not connected, power is not supplied to the power supply unit 45, and therefore, the possibility of occurrence of a short circuit can be reduced.

[ procedure for processing programmable display ]

Next, a flow of processing of the programmable display 21 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to fig. 8. Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing a flow of the connection detection process of the bracket portion 8. Fig. 8 shows a flow of the connection detection process in a state where the supply of electric power to power supply unit 45 is stopped.

First, when the timing to perform polling is reached (yes in S11), the NFC unit 44 transmits a polling signal (short-range wireless signal) (S12). Whether or not polling is to be performed may be determined by measuring a predetermined cycle of, for example, several ms with a timer, not shown.

Next, when receiving the response signal from the NFC unit 34 of the handwriting unit 7 (yes in S13), the NFC unit 44 supplies NFC-enabled information indicating the reception to the power supply determination unit 81. When the NFC possible information is supplied, power supply determination unit 81 supplies power from a power supply unit (not shown) to power supply unit 45 (S14).

Next, when the timing to perform polling is again reached (yes in S15), the NFC unit 44 transmits a polling signal (short-range wireless signal) (S16). When receiving the response signal from NFC unit 34 of handwriting unit 7 (yes at S17), NFC unit 44 returns to step S15. On the other hand, when the response signal from the NFC unit 34 of the handwriting unit 7 is not received (no in S17), in other words, when the handwriting unit 7 is separated from the cradle unit 8, NFC impossible information indicating the reception is supplied to the power supply determination unit 81. When the NFC impossible information is supplied, the power supply determination unit 81 stops the supply of power from the power supply unit (not shown) to the power supply unit 45 (S18).

[ Effect of the invention in embodiment 2 ]

Accordingly, when it is determined that the near field communication between the NFC unit 34 and the NFC unit 44 is executable, the programmable display 21 of the present embodiment supplies power to the power supply unit 45. Accordingly, it is possible to determine whether or not handwriting portion 7 and carriage portion 8 are connected, in other words, whether or not power supply portion 45 is exposed, and when power supply portion 45 is exposed, power is not supplied to power supply portion 45, so that the possibility of occurrence of a short circuit can be reduced even in a place where liquid may adhere to power supply portion 45.

[ modification of embodiment 2 ]

Next, a modification of embodiment 2 will be described below with reference to fig. 9. In the handwriting unit 70 of the programmable display 22 according to the present modification, the NFC unit 34 operates using the signal output by the NFC unit 44 as an electromotive force. That is, unlike embodiment 2 described above, the NFC unit 34 is not supplied with power from a power supply unit (battery) shown in fig. 9. Specifically, the NFC unit 34 is activated by a polling signal (near field communication signal) output from the NFC unit 44 when receiving the signal. Then, the NFC unit 34 transmits a response signal to the polling signal to the NFC unit 44. When the NFC unit 44 receives the response signal, NFC possible information indicating the reception is supplied to the power supply determination unit 81 in the same manner as in embodiment 2. When the NFC possible information is supplied, power supply determination unit 81 supplies power from a power supply unit, not shown, to power supply unit 45.

This enables NFC communication to be performed without receiving power supply from the power supply unit of handwriting unit 70.

(modification example common to embodiments 1 and 2.)

Next, a modification common to embodiments 1 and 2 will be described below with reference to fig. 10 and 11.

The programmable display device according to the present invention can switch between the configurations of embodiments 1 and 2 described above, that is, the configuration in which power is always supplied to the power supply unit 45 and the configuration in which power is supplied to the power supply unit 45 only when the NFC unit 34 and the NFC unit 44 can perform the proximity wireless communication. The switching may be performed by a switch not shown, for example.

As shown in fig. 10, the handwriting unit 9 of the programmable display 23 according to the present invention may include a wireless communication unit 91 (wireless communication determination means). The wireless communication unit 91 is a communication device that detects a wireless lan (local area network) and performs wireless communication. The wireless communication unit 91 may determine whether or not a predetermined wireless LAN (for example, a wireless LAN available in a factory site) can be detected. In addition, when the detection is impossible, the user authentication unit 323 may limit the function of the handwriting unit 9. This prevents the user from taking the handwriting unit 9 to an outside of a factory and using it, and from stealing the handwriting unit 3. The Wireless LAN may be Wi-Fi (Wireless fidelity, registered trademark), for example.

Further, when the wireless communication unit 91 detects a predetermined wireless LAN and the user authentication unit 323 acquires information matching the information input to the handwriting unit 9 from the user memory 333 in order to authenticate the user, the user authentication unit 323 may release the function restriction.

The wireless communication unit 91 may not have a function of performing wireless communication, but may have only a function of determining whether or not detection of a predetermined wireless LAN is possible. The object detected by the wireless communication unit 91 is not limited to the wireless LAN, and may be, for example, a wan (wide area network).

As shown in fig. 11, the handwriting unit 90 of the programmable display 24 according to the present invention may include a GPS92 (position information determination means). The GPS92 includes a sensor that detects position information indicating the position of the handwriting unit 90. The GPS92 may determine whether or not the detected position information is position information indicating a predetermined range (for example, the inside of a factory site). When it is determined that the user is not within the predetermined range, user authentication unit 323 may limit the functions of handwriting unit 90. This prevents the user from taking handwriting unit 90 to an outside of a factory and using it, and from stealing handwriting unit 3.

When the GPS92 determines that the handwriting unit 90 is within the predetermined range and the user authentication unit 323 acquires information matching the information input to the handwriting unit 90 from the user memory 333 in order to authenticate the user, the user authentication unit 323 may release the function restriction.

The programmable display device of the present invention may be configured to include the power receiving unit 35 and the power supply unit 45 that wirelessly supply power, and to supply power to the power supply unit 45 only when the NFC unit 34 and the NFC unit 44 can perform the proximity wireless communication. In this case, the NFC unit 34 may be configured to be activated by power from a power supply unit (internal battery) of the handwriting unit, or may be configured to operate using a signal output from the NFC unit 44 as an electromotive force.

[ software-based embodiment ]

The control modules (particularly, the input Processing unit 321, the display Processing unit 322, the user authentication unit 323, the device control unit 421, the device information acquisition unit 422, and the user authentication unit 423) of the handwriting unit 3, the handwriting unit 7, the handwriting unit 70, the handwriting unit 9, and the handwriting unit 90, and the cradle unit 4 and the cradle unit 8 may be implemented by logic circuits (hardware) formed on an integrated circuit (IC chip) or the like, or may be implemented by software using a cpu (central Processing unit).

In the latter case, the handwriting unit 3, the handwriting unit 7, the handwriting unit 70, the handwriting unit 9, the handwriting unit 90, the cradle unit 4, and the cradle unit 8 include a CPU that executes instructions of a program as software for realizing each function, a rom (read Only memory) that records the program and various data as being readable by a computer (or CPU), a ram (random Access memory) that develops the program in a storage device (these are referred to as "recording media"), and the like. The object of the present invention can be achieved by reading the program from the recording medium and executing the program by a computer (or CPU). As the recording medium, a "non-transitory tangible medium" such as a magnetic tape, a magnetic disk, a card, a semiconductor memory, a programmable logic circuit, or the like can be used. The program may be supplied to the computer via an arbitrary transmission medium (a communication network, a broadcast wave, or the like) through which the program can be transmitted. The present invention can be realized in the form of a data signal embedded in a carrier wave, in which the program is realized by electronic transmission.

[ Note ] for

The present invention can also be explained as follows.

That is, in the programmable display device according to the present invention, the handwriting unit further includes a power acquisition unit that acquires power from outside and an external power supply detection unit that detects supply of power from outside, and the handwriting communication unit may start the short-range wireless communication when the external power supply detection unit detects that the power acquisition unit acquires power from outside.

According to the above configuration, in this case, the handwriting communication unit operates by external power to start short-range wireless communication. This reduces power consumption of the handwriting communication unit. The power supplied from the outside can be supplied from the cradle portion. That is, the handwriting communication unit operates when the handwriting unit is connected to the cradle unit. Thus, the cradle communication unit can receive the short-range wireless communication from the handwriting communication unit, and therefore, the handwriting unit and the cradle unit can transmit and receive information to and from each other.

In the programmable display device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the holder portion further includes a power supply portion that supplies power to the outside, a power control unit that controls power supplied from a power supply of the device to the power supply portion, and a communication determination unit that determines whether or not transmission and reception of information by the short-range wireless communication with the handwriting portion are possible, and when the communication determination unit determines that transmission and reception of information by the short-range wireless communication with the handwriting portion are possible, the power control unit supplies power from the power supply of the device to the power supply portion.

According to the above configuration, when the cradle unit determines that the short-range wireless communication between the handwriting communication unit and the cradle communication unit can be performed, the power supply unit is supplied with power from the power supply of the device. Accordingly, it is possible to determine whether or not the handwriting portion and the cradle portion are connected, in other words, whether or not the power supply portion is exposed, and to prevent power from being supplied to the power supply portion when the power supply portion is exposed.

In the programmable display device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the handwriting communication unit operates using a signal transmitted from the cradle communication unit as an electromotive force.

According to the above configuration, the handwriting communication unit is activated when receiving the signal transmitted from the cradle communication unit. Thus, the short-range wireless communication can be performed without receiving power supply from the power supply of the handwriting unit.

In the programmable display device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the handwriting unit further includes function limiting means for limiting a function of the handwriting unit, a storage unit for storing user information for uniquely identifying the user, and user information determination means for determining whether or not the user information stored in the storage unit matches user information input from outside, and the function limiting means releases the limitation of the function of the handwriting unit when the user information determination means determines that the user information matches the user information.

According to the above configuration, the function of the handwriting unit can be restricted, and when the stored user information matches the user information input from the outside, the restriction can be released. Thus, only the user who stores the user information in the handwriting portion can use the handwriting portion whose function is not limited. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an unspecified number of persons from controlling the apparatus and using the handwriting portion. In addition, the handwriting portion can be prevented from being stolen by an unregistered user.

In the programmable display device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the handwriting unit further includes wireless communication determination means for determining whether or not wireless communication other than short-range wireless communication via a predetermined communication network is possible, and the function restriction means releases the restriction of the function of the handwriting unit when the wireless communication determination means determines that wireless communication via the predetermined communication network is possible and determines that the user information determination means matches.

According to the above configuration, the restriction of the function of the handwriting unit is released when wireless communication (except short-range wireless communication) via a predetermined communication network is possible in addition to the matching of the user information. In other words, when the handwriting unit is located at a position where wireless communication via a predetermined communication network is not possible, the function restriction is not removed. Thus, even if the user takes the handwriting part away and steals the handwriting part, the handwriting part with the released function limit cannot be used, and therefore, the handwriting part can be prevented from being taken away and stolen.

In the programmable display device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the handwriting unit further includes position information determination means for acquiring position information of a local terminal and determining whether or not the acquired position information is included in a predetermined range, and the function restriction means releases the restriction of the function of the handwriting unit when the position information determination means determines that the acquired position information is included in the predetermined range and the user information determination means determines that the acquired position information is matched.

According to the above configuration, the restriction of the function of the handwriting unit is released when the handwritten position information is included in the predetermined range in addition to the matching of the user information. In other words, when the handwriting portion is out of the predetermined range, the function restriction is not released. Thus, even if the user takes away the handwriting portion and steals it, the handwriting portion whose function restriction is released cannot be used, and therefore, the user can be prevented from taking away and stealing it.

In the programmable display device according to the present invention, it is preferable that the handwriting portion further includes a 1 st link portion having a hook shape and a metal back surface on a surface opposite to a surface having the touch panel, the bracket portion further includes a 2 nd link portion having a concave shape and provided on a surface on an upper side when the handwriting portion is attached to the bracket portion, and a 3 rd link portion being a magnet provided on a surface contacting the back surface of the handwriting portion when the handwriting portion is attached to the bracket portion, the bracket portion is inserted into the 1 st link portion of the handwriting portion at the 2 nd link portion, and the 3 rd link portion contacts the back surface of the handwriting portion, thereby fixing the handwriting portion.

According to the above configuration, the connection portion is fixed by two fixing methods, namely, fixing by inserting the 1 st connection portion into the 2 nd connection portion and fixing by magnetic force by bringing the back surface of the handwriting portion into contact with the 3 rd connection portion. Therefore, the handwriting part and the bracket part can be simply and stably connected. Further, the convex shape can be easily inserted into the concave shape and fixed by the magnet, so that the separation can be easily performed.

The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made within the scope of the claims, and embodiments obtained by appropriately combining the mechanisms of the techniques disclosed in the respective different embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

Industrial applicability of the invention

The present invention can be applied to a programmable display for a control device.

Description of reference numerals

2-a programmable display device, which is provided with a display,

3-the part of the hand-writing part,

4-the part of the bracket is provided with a bracket,

31-a touch panel, the touch panel,

33-a storage section for storing the data,

34-NFC section (handwriting communication section),

35-a power receiving unit (power acquiring unit),

36-external power source detection unit (external power source detection means),

38-clasp (connection No. 1),

44-NFC section (cradle communication section),

45-a power supply section (power supply section),

48-recess (2 nd connection),

49-magnet (No. 3 connecting part),

81-power supply determination unit (power control means, communication determination means),

91-wireless communication unit (wireless communication determination means),

92-GPS (position information determination means),

321-an input processing unit (input control means),

322-display processing section (display control means),

323-user authentication unit (function restriction means, user information determination means),

421-device control section (apparatus control means),

422-device information acquisition section (equipment information acquisition means),

s3 — an acknowledgement signal reception step,

s4-response signaling step,

s5 — short-range wireless communication start step.

Claims (9)

1. A programmable display device is provided with: a touch panel that displays an operation image for accepting an input operation by a user, an input control unit that specifies a process based on the input operation with respect to the operation image, a device control unit that controls a device based on the process specified by the input control unit, a device information acquisition unit that acquires data relating to the device, and a display control unit that controls the touch panel to display a data image based on the acquired data, the programmable display including:

a cradle unit having the device control means, the device information acquisition means, and a cradle communication unit that transmits and receives information to and from the outside by short-range wireless communication, the cradle unit being connected to the device to be controlled; and

a handwriting unit which has the touch panel, the input control means, the display control means, and a handwriting communication unit that transmits and receives information to and from the outside by short-range wireless communication, and which is attachable to and detachable from the holder unit,

the cradle unit and the handwriting unit transmit and receive information to and from each other using the cradle communication unit and the handwriting communication unit.

2. The programmable display of claim 1,

the handwriting unit further includes:

a power acquisition unit that acquires power from outside; and

an external power supply detection means for detecting the supply of electric power from the outside,

the handwriting communication unit starts the short-range wireless communication when the external power supply detection unit detects that the power acquisition unit acquires power from the outside.

3. The programmable display of claim 1,

the bracket portion further includes:

a power supply unit that supplies power to the outside;

a power control mechanism that controls power supplied from a power source of the device to the power supply unit; and

a communication determination unit that determines whether or not transmission/reception of information by the short-range wireless communication with the handwriting unit is possible,

when the communication determination means determines that the transmission/reception of information by the short-range wireless communication with the handwriting unit is possible, the power control means supplies the power from the power supply of the device to the power supply unit.

4. The programmable display of any one of claims 1-3,

the handwriting communication unit operates using a signal transmitted from the cradle communication unit as an electromotive force.

5. The programmable display of any one of claims 1-4,

the handwriting unit further includes:

a function limiting mechanism that limits a function of the handwriting unit;

a storage unit that stores user information that uniquely identifies the user; and

user information determination means for determining whether or not the user information stored in the storage unit matches user information input from outside,

the function restriction means releases the restriction of the function of the handwriting unit when the user information determination means determines that the functions match.

6. The programmable display of claim 5,

the handwriting unit further includes a wireless communication determination means for determining whether or not wireless communication other than short-range wireless communication via a predetermined communication network is possible,

the function restriction unit releases the restriction of the function of the handwriting unit when the wireless communication determination unit determines that the wireless communication is possible through the predetermined communication network and the user information determination unit determines that the wireless communication is consistent with the predetermined communication network.

7. The programmable display of claim 5,

the handwriting unit further includes position information determination means for acquiring position information of a local terminal and determining whether or not the acquired position information is included in a predetermined range,

the function restriction means releases the restriction of the function of the handwriting unit when the position information determination means determines that the handwriting unit is included in the predetermined range and the user information determination means determines that the handwriting unit is matched.

8. The programmable display of any one of claims 1-7,

the handwriting portion further includes a back surface made of metal, the back surface being opposite to a surface of the handwriting portion having the touch panel, and the handwriting portion further includes a 1 st connecting portion of a hook shape provided on the back surface,

the bracket portion further includes: a concave-shaped 2 nd connecting portion provided in an upward-facing surface of the bracket portion when the bracket portion is connected to the apparatus; and a 3 rd connecting part formed of a magnet provided on a surface of the bracket part, the surface being in contact with the back surface of the handwriting part when the handwriting part is mounted on the bracket part,

the 1 st link part of the handwriting part is inserted into the 2 nd link part of the bracket part, and the 3 rd link part is brought into contact with the back surface of the handwriting part, thereby fixing the handwriting part.

9. A method for controlling a programmable display, comprising: a cradle unit having a cradle communication unit for transmitting and receiving information to and from the outside and connected to a device to be controlled, and a handwriting unit having a handwriting communication unit for transmitting and receiving information to and from the outside and detachably attached to the cradle unit, the method for controlling a programmable display device comprising:

a confirmation signal receiving step in which the handwriting communication unit receives a confirmation signal from the cradle communication unit, which is a short-range wireless signal for confirming whether or not the cradle unit is connected to the handwriting unit;

a response signal transmission step of transmitting a response signal, which is the short-range wireless signal for responding to the confirmation signal, to the handwriting communication unit; and

a short-range wireless communication start step in which the cradle communication unit and the handwriting communication unit start transmission and reception of information using short-range wireless communication.