JP7605000B2 - Information management method and information management system - Google Patents

Description

This technology relates to an information management method and an information management system.

Efforts are underway to expand standard networks (e.g., Ethernet (registered trademark)) used in general information networks so that they can also be used in industrial networks. More specifically, the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) 802.1 Time Sensitive Networking (TSN) (hereinafter simply referred to as "TSN") is known, which is based on Ethernet (registered trademark) and has been improved to make the network behave deterministically. TSN makes it easier to achieve real-time communication using general-purpose hardware such as Ethernet (registered trademark).

In addition, OPC UA (OPC Unified Architecture), which is internationally standardized as IEC 62541, is attracting attention as a communications stack for data communication between devices. The combination of TSN and OPC UA is also known as "OPC UA over TSN."

In this way, technological advances are occurring rapidly in the field of industry automation.

On the other hand, when building a system consisting of multiple devices, there is a need to simulate performance in advance.

For example, International Publication No. 2019/220605 (Patent Document 1) discloses a simulation device that executes a simulation of a programmable logic controller. Furthermore, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2008-030690 (Patent Document 2) discloses a simulation method that can predict abnormalities that may occur in each device that constitutes a control system.

In addition, JP 2020-048172 A (Patent Document 3) discloses a verification device that performs efficient functional verification of open network equipment.

International Publication No. 2019/220605 JP 2008-030690 A JP 2020-048172 A

The prior art documents mentioned above perform simulations by combining pre-prepared models, but it is not easy to maintain the accuracy of such models.

This technology provides a way to more easily improve the accuracy of models used in simulations, pre-verification, etc.

According to an embodiment of the present technology, an information management method executed by one or more computers is provided. The information management method includes the steps of generating a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices, collecting information from the one or more devices, updating the first instance model based on the collected information, generating type model information based on the updated first instance model, and updating a managed type model based on the generated type model information.

According to this configuration, the instance model can be updated based on information about one or more devices included in the actual configuration, and the type model can be updated based on the updated instance model. This series of information chains can be used to configure a type model that reflects information collected from one or more actual configurations. This can increase the accuracy of the type model and also improve reusability.

The information management method may further include a step of instantiating the type model to generate a second instance model, and a step of reflecting the generated second instance model in a corresponding new real configuration. According to this configuration, before realizing a new real configuration, a corresponding second instance model is generated, and the generated second instance model can be used to perform a preliminary study of the new real configuration.

The step of generating the second instance model may include a step of copying the first instance model. This configuration makes it easy to carry out advance considerations such as changing the existing actual configuration.

The information management method may further include a step of running a simulation using the generated new instance model. With this configuration, it is possible to evaluate whether the required performance, etc. is achieved in the new actual configuration by a preliminary simulation.

The step of generating type model information may include a step of removing information specific to the instance model from the updated instance model. With this configuration, generalized type model information can be generated by removing information specific to the actual configuration contained in the instance model.

The instance model may be generated in a restricted first virtual space. The type model may be managed in a second virtual space accessible from multiple first virtual spaces. With this configuration, the type model managed in the second virtual space can be used for instance models generated in multiple first virtual spaces.

The type model and the instance model may be assigned identification information to identify the same type. With this configuration, when generating an instance model, the elements of the model corresponding to each device can be easily identified.

The step of updating the first instance model may include a step of calculating an error between the collected information and the first instance model, and changing a value of the first instance model based on the calculated error. With this configuration, it is possible to generate a first instance model that more accurately reflects the behavior and operation of the actual configuration.

According to another embodiment of the present technology, there is provided an information management system including a first computer and a second computer. The first computer includes a means for generating a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices, a means for acquiring information from the one or more devices, a means for updating the first instance model based on the acquired information, and a means for generating type model information based on the updated first instance model. The second computer includes a means for updating the managed type model based on the generated type model information.

This technology makes it easier to improve the accuracy of models used in simulations, pre-verification, and other processes.

1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an overall configuration of an information management system according to an embodiment of the present invention; 1 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to collection of information on an actual configuration in an information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of information collected in an information management system according to the present embodiment. 11 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to information transmission to a private virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to updating an instance model of a private virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to information transmission to a public virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to updating information of a type model of a public virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram for illustrating a process related to configuration of a private virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. 11 is a diagram for explaining a process relating to reflection on an actual configuration in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. FIG. 13 is a diagram for illustrating another process related to configuration of a private virtual space in the information management system according to the present embodiment. 13 is a diagram for explaining another process relating to reflection on an actual configuration in the information management system according to the embodiment. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device 150 that realizes a public virtual space of the information management system according to the present embodiment. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a switch in the information management system according to the present embodiment. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure in the information management system according to the present embodiment.

The embodiment of the present technology will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the same or equivalent parts in the drawings will be given the same reference numerals and their description will not be repeated.

<A. Application Examples>
First, an example of a situation in which the present invention is applied will be described.

Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. With reference to Figure 1, the information management system 1 includes a public virtual space 10 and one or more private virtual spaces 20A, 20B, ... (hereinafter, sometimes collectively referred to as "private virtual spaces 20").

In the configuration example shown in FIG. 1, private virtual space 20A is configured to correspond to real configuration 30A, and private virtual space 20B is configured to correspond to real configuration 30B. Note that real configurations 30A, 30B, ... may be collectively referred to as "real configuration 30."

Normally, a private virtual space 20 is a restricted virtual space that can only be accessed by the owner or administrator of the corresponding real configuration 30. In contrast, a public virtual space 10 is a virtual space that can be accessed not only by the owner or administrator of a specific real configuration 30, but also by third parties. In other words, the public virtual space 10 corresponds to a virtual space that can be accessed from multiple private virtual spaces 20.

The real configuration 30 refers to an entity consisting of one or more devices that exist in the real world. Typically, the real configuration 30 corresponds to one or more network-connected devices that constitute a real manufacturing line or manufacturing equipment.

The information management system 1 according to this embodiment manages information by modeling the actual configuration 30 or the devices included in the actual configuration 30 as accurately as possible. Furthermore, the information management system 1 provides more accurate preliminary simulations, etc., based on the modeled information, prior to the realization of a new actual configuration 30.

The public virtual space 10 includes information that defines models of devices included in the real configuration 30. Typically, the public virtual space 10 is accessible or available not only to the entity (corporation or organization) that owns the specific real configuration 30, but also to third parties who meet certain requirements. The information managed by the public virtual space 10 is basically "type model" information. A "type model" is a model that defines the characteristics and properties that devices belonging to the same type or format have in common. In other words, a "type model" refers to information such as common features and properties that are not dependent on individual devices.

Private virtual space 20 includes information configured to correspond to a corresponding real configuration 30. The collection of information included in private virtual space 20 is sometimes referred to as an "asset."

Typically, the private virtual space 20 includes information specific to the corresponding real configuration 30. The private virtual space 20 has an "instance model" that reflects the unique information for the "type model" managed by the public virtual space 10. The "instance model" is generated by adding information specific to the real configuration 30 to the "type model" and instantiating it. Furthermore, the "instance model" configured in the private virtual space 20 is at least a part of the "assets" of the private virtual space 20.

As described below, part of the information of the "instance model" managed by the private virtual space 20 is provided (feedback) to the public virtual space 10. At this time, information contained in the "instance model" that is specific to the corresponding real configuration 30 is excluded from the content provided to the public virtual space 10. In this way, the information processing device that manages the private virtual space 20 generates type model information by removing information specific to the instance model from the updated instance model.

Below, an example of information management processing using the information management system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described. In the following description, an example is given of a case in which a new actual configuration 30B is configured by reflecting information collected in an existing actual configuration 30A. Note that actual configurations 30A and 30B are not necessarily identical. Note that the following information management method is executed by one or more computers. An example of the hardware configuration of the computer will be described later.

First, (1) information on the real configuration 30A is collected. The information collected from the real configuration 30A is (2) sent to the private virtual space 20A. In the private virtual space 20A, (3) assets (instance models) are updated based on the information sent from the real configuration 30A.

Furthermore, (4) the asset information updated in the private virtual space 20A is transmitted to the public virtual space 10. In the public virtual space 10, (5) the type model information is updated based on the information transmitted from the private virtual space 20A.

After that, (6) a private virtual space 20B corresponding to the target actual configuration 30B is configured. Then, in the configured private virtual space 20B, (7) necessary simulations, etc. are executed. Depending on the simulation results, the configuration of the private virtual space 20B may be changed or updated.

Finally, (8) the contents of private virtual space 20B are reflected in actual configuration 30B. By constructing such a data chain, the accuracy of the model and the simulation using the model can be improved, and errors that occur when reflected in the actual configuration can be reduced.

In the above explanation, an example was given of constructing a new real configuration 30B, but it can also be used for applications such as modifying an existing real configuration 30A to real configuration 30B. In this case, a private virtual space 20B that is substantially the same as private virtual space 20A is constructed, and then a simulation based on private virtual space 20B is performed while appropriately modifying the configuration of private virtual space 20B. Finally, the contents of private virtual space 20B after the modification are reflected in real configuration 30B.

Each process will be described in detail below.
B. Processing Details
(1) Collecting information on actual configuration
2 is a diagram for explaining a process related to collection of information of an actual configuration 30A in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 2, a production system including a network-connected programmable logic controller (PLC) is shown as an example of the actual configuration 30A.

In the actual configuration 30A shown in FIG. 2, two PLCs 300 are network-connected via a switch 310. The two PLCs and the switch 310 exchange data using a network protocol that conforms to, for example, TSN (Time-Sensitive Networking). The data exchange is managed by a network controller 320.

Furthermore, in the actual configuration 30A, the monitoring device 330 is connected to the network via the switch 312.

The network controller 320 and the monitoring device 330 collect information on the devices included in the real configuration 30A. The network controller 320 and the monitoring device 330 may collect information on the devices included in the real configuration 30A periodically or for each event. Furthermore, in addition to the start-up phase of the real configuration 30A, information on the devices included in the real configuration 30A is also collected during the operation phase of the real configuration 30A.

The network controller 320 mainly collects information related to network communications (communication information 322). For example, the network controller 320 collects communication information 322 from each device (such as the PLC 300 and the switch 310) using the OPC UA protocol that conforms to the OPC UA information model or the NETCONF protocol that conforms to the YANG (Yet Another Next Generation) model.

The monitoring device 330 mainly collects production information 332 from the operating production system. For example, the monitoring device 330 collects the production information 332 from each device (such as the PLC 300) using OPC UA client-server communication that conforms to the OPC UA information model.

Figure 3 shows an example of information collected in the information management system 1 according to this embodiment.

Figure 3 (A) shows an example of information for each device collected according to the OPC UA companion specification. Items of information for each device include, for example, input/output data equivalent to tracing the monitored data, operation logs, events, etc.

Figure 3 (B) shows an example of information related to network management and control centered on the TSN. Items of information related to network management and control include, for example, user settings such as network configuration and cyclic communication settings, device capabilities, and communication diagnostic information.

Note that at least a portion of the communication information 322 and/or production information 332 collected by the network controller 320 and/or the monitoring device 330 is information specific to the actual configuration 30.

(2) Sending information to a private virtual space
4 is a diagram for explaining a process related to information transmission to the private virtual space 20A in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. With reference to FIG. 4, information collected by the network controller 320 and/or the monitoring device 330 is transmitted to the private virtual space 20A. Transmission of information from the real configuration 30A to the private virtual space 20A may be performed periodically or for each event.

The private virtual space 20A has a shared data storage unit 250, in which information from the real configuration 30A is stored sequentially. Information may be transmitted from the real configuration 30A to the private virtual space 20A using OPC UA PubSub over MQTT, which combines OPC UA PubSub communication and the MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport) protocol. It is preferable that the information is encrypted before transmission.

[(3) Updating assets (instance models)]
FIG. 5 is a diagram for illustrating a process relating to updating an instance model of private virtual space 20A in information management system 1 according to the present embodiment.

Referring to FIG. 5, the private virtual space 20A is configured to correspond to the actual configuration 30. More specifically, in the private virtual space 20A, two virtual PLCs 200 are network-connected via a virtual switch 210. Also, in the private virtual space 20A, a virtual network controller 220 is connected to the virtual switch 210, and a virtual monitoring device 230 is connected to the virtual network via a virtual switch 212.

The virtual network controller 220 and/or the virtual monitoring device 230 included in the private virtual space 20A refer to the communication information 322 and/or the production information 332 stored in the shared data storage unit 250 to update the assets (instance model) of the private virtual space 20A. That is, the virtual network controller 220 and/or the virtual monitoring device 230 update the information of the instance model of the private virtual space 20A so that it matches the information of the corresponding device in the actual configuration 30A.

By performing such update processing periodically or for each event, the assets (instance model) of the private virtual space 20A can be maintained in a state that reflects the actual configuration 30A.

(4) Transmitting information to public virtual space
6 is a diagram for explaining a process related to information transmission to the public virtual space 10 in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 6, the information transmitted from the private virtual space 20A to the public virtual space 10 is information of an instance model (instance information) converted into information of a type model (type information).

Here, the type model information (type information) includes generalized information, so to speak, of the assets of the private virtual space 20A, excluding information specific to the actual configuration 30A. For example, the type information includes the following:

(a) A formula or function that defines characteristics such as response performance, delay time, processing time, memory usage, etc. (b) A threshold value for determining a state such as the number of allowable errors, the allowable years of operation, and state transition conditions (c) Type-specific information such as potential performance singularities and frequencies of devices of the same type In addition to the type information described above, environmental information from the instance information may be transmitted to the public virtual space 10. For example, since the product life of a device depends on the environment, environmental information may be transmitted to the public virtual space 10 together with the type information, and the type model managed by the public virtual space 10 may be updated to reflect the environmental information.

Examples of environmental information include automatically or manually measured information such as temperature and humidity, and information on processing load. However, environmental information is not limited to these types of information, and may be any information that can determine environmental dependency trends and characteristics.

(5) Updating the Type Model
7 is a diagram for explaining a process related to updating information of a type model of the public virtual space 10 in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 7, the information (type information) of the type models 100, 110 managed in the public virtual space 10 is given identification information 101, 111 for identifying the type. Meanwhile, the information (instance information) of the instance model managed in the private virtual space 20A is also given identification information 201, 211 for identifying the type. Models corresponding to the same type are given the same identification value and are associated with each other.

In this way, type models and instance models are given identification information to identify the same type. Note that DIDs (Decentralized Identifiers) or the like can be used as identification information given to models. Using decentralized IDs can facilitate management of models using a decentralized database such as a blockchain.

The model is not limited to the PLC mentioned above, but also includes networks, switches, and any devices connected to a network.

The public virtual space 10 updates the type model information based on the type information sent from the private virtual space 20A.

It is also possible to set an owner for the type model information managed in the public virtual space 10. In this case, the owner of the type model managed in the public virtual space 10 may decide whether or not to update the information.

In this case, for example, when any of the instance models managed by the private virtual space 20A is updated, the updated content is provided to the owner of the type model managed by the public virtual space 10 that corresponds to that instance model.

The owner selects from the provided content the information that should be reflected in the type model managed by the public virtual space 10. This ensures that only the information selected by the owner is reflected in the type model.

By having such an owner select the information to be reflected, it is possible to prevent specific information from being reflected in the type model, thereby improving the model accuracy of the type model. Note that the owner may be a human user, or may be replaced by an AI (Artificial Intelligence) engine.

In addition, an AI engine may be used to extract information on the type model to be reflected. For example, information on a large number of instance models of the same type transmitted from the private virtual space 20A may be statistically analyzed to extract information specific to that type. Furthermore, the update content of the type information may be determined by reflecting the environmental information provided and transmitted from the private virtual space 20A. For example, the dependency of the environmental temperature, etc., may be estimated from the large amount of information provided and transmitted from the private virtual space 20A.

By carrying out the above series of processes, the accuracy of the type model managed by the public virtual space 10 can be improved based on the information managed and collected by the actual configuration 30A.

[(6a) Configuration of Private Virtual Space 20B, and (7a) Execution of Simulation]
8 is a diagram for explaining processing related to the configuration of a private virtual space 20B in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. With reference to FIG. 8, for example, an asset (instance model) is configured in the private virtual space 20B in correspondence with a newly realized actual configuration 30B.

More specifically, from the information on type models 100, 110 managed by the public virtual space 10, a type model corresponding to identification information 101, 111 showing the same identification value as identification information 201, 211 for identifying the type of device used in the actual configuration 30B is selected. Then, the selected type model is instantiated, and an asset (instance model) is configured in the private virtual space 20B.

In more specific steps, the user selects the desired device by any method and specifies the connection form and method between the devices. Then, a type model corresponding to the specified device is selected from the public virtual space 10, and instance model information (instance information) is reflected in the selected public. Note that the instance information may be information collected from the private virtual space 20A, or information consisting of average values prepared in advance may be used.

As described above, when (a) a formula or function that defines a characteristic is used as the type information, the instance information may be calculated from the formula or function depending on the target real configuration 30B or the corresponding instance model. Also, when (b) a threshold value for determining a state and/or (c) type-specific information is used as the type information, the type information may be used as it is as the instance information.

Furthermore, for information that depends on the environment, environmental factors may be calculated and instance information may be generated according to the target actual configuration 30B or the corresponding instance model.

Furthermore, if necessary, a simulation is performed to verify whether the desired operation or processing can be executed using the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B. Depending on the results of the simulation, the instance information generated in the private virtual space 20B is updated as appropriate.

By using the above processing procedure, the behavior of real configuration 30B can be predicted or understood in advance before the real configuration 30B is actually constructed.

[(8a) Reflection in actual configuration 30B]
9 is a diagram for explaining a process related to reflection to the real configuration 30B in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 9, when instance information considered to be appropriate is determined as a result of a simulation using an instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B, necessary information is set in the real configuration 30B based on the determined instance information.

For example, necessary information is sent from the virtual network controller 220 in the private virtual space 20B to the monitoring device 330 in the actual configuration 30B. Necessary information is sent from the virtual monitoring device 230 in the private virtual space 20B to the monitoring device 330 in the actual configuration 30B.

Furthermore, the network controller 320 performs the necessary device settings for the devices (such as the PLC 300 and the switch 310) included in the actual configuration 30B according to the information from the private virtual space 20B.

As described above, the results of a simulation using an instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B can be directly reflected in the actual configuration 30B, and by achieving a highly accurate simulation, the reproducibility of the results when reflected in the actual configuration 30B can be improved.

[(6b) Configuring Private Virtual Space 20B, and (7b) Executing Simulation]
Fig. 10 is a diagram for explaining another process related to the configuration of the private virtual space 20B in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. With reference to Fig. 10, for example, a case is assumed in which the existing real configuration 30A is changed to the real configuration 30B. In this case as well, an asset (instance model) corresponding to the changed real configuration 30B is configured in the private virtual space 20B.

More specifically, first, an asset (instance model) corresponding to real configuration 30A (private virtual space 20A) is copied to private virtual space 20B. Then, a type model corresponding to identification information 101 indicating the same identification value as identification information 201 for specifying the type of device to be added in real configuration 30B is selected from public virtual space 10. Then, the selected type model is instantiated and added to private virtual space 20B.

In more detail, the user selects the device to be added by any method and specifies the connection form and method between the devices. Then, a type model corresponding to the specified device is selected from the public virtual space 10, and the instance model information (instance information) is reflected in the selected public. The process related to instantiation is the same as that shown in FIG. 8 above.

Furthermore, if necessary, a simulation is performed to verify whether the desired operation or processing can be executed using the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B. Depending on the results of the simulation, the instance information generated in the private virtual space 20B is updated as appropriate.

By using the above processing procedure, the behavior of real configuration 30B can be predicted or understood in advance before the real configuration 30B is actually constructed.

[(8b) Reflection in actual configuration 30B]
11 is a diagram for explaining another process related to reflection to the real configuration 30B in the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to FIG. 11, when instance information considered appropriate is determined as a result of a simulation using an instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B, necessary information is set in the real configuration 30B based on the determined instance information.

For example, necessary information is sent from the virtual network controller 220 in the private virtual space 20B to the monitoring device 330 in the actual configuration 30B. Necessary information is sent from the virtual monitoring device 230 in the private virtual space 20B to the monitoring device 330 in the actual configuration 30B.

Furthermore, the network controller 320 performs necessary setting changes to existing devices (such as PLC 300 and switch 310) included in the actual configuration 30B according to the information from the private virtual space 20B, and performs necessary device settings for added devices (such as PLC 300).

As described above, the results of a simulation using an instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B can be directly reflected in the actual configuration 30B, and by achieving a highly accurate simulation, the reproducibility of the results when reflected in the actual configuration 30B can be improved.

C. Hardware Configuration Example
(c1: Example of hardware configuration for realizing public virtual space 10)
Fig. 12 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device 150 that realizes the public virtual space 10 of the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to Fig. 12, the information processing device 150 is an example of a computer, and includes one or more processors 152, one or more main memories 154, a display unit 156, an input unit 158, one or more communication interfaces 160, and a storage 170. Each component is electrically connected via a bus 162.

The processor 152 is composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit), etc., and realizes various processes as described below by reading various programs stored in the storage 170, expanding them into the main memory 154, and executing them.

The display unit 156 is configured with a liquid crystal display or the like, and displays the results of processing by the processor 152. The input unit 158 is configured with a keyboard, mouse, or the like, and accepts operations from the user. The communication interface 160 exchanges data with any device.

Storage 170 is composed of a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD), and stores, for example, an OS 172, an information management program 174, and a data set 176 that includes type model information (type data), etc.

Although FIG. 12 shows an example of a configuration in which the necessary functions are provided by the processor 152 executing a program, some or all of these provided functions may be implemented using a dedicated hardwired circuit (e.g., an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array)). In other words, the processes executed by the information processing device 150 and the functions provided may be realized by processing circuitry including a processor, an ASIC, an FPGA, etc.

Furthermore, the public virtual space 10 may be realized by distributing multiple information processing devices 150, and any hardware resources may be adopted to realize the information management system 1.

(c2: Example of Hardware Configuration for Realizing Private Virtual Space 20)
The private virtual space 20 of the information management system 1 according to this embodiment can also be realized by using a computer similar to the information processing device 150 shown in FIG.

(c3: Example of a hardware configuration for managing and collecting information on the actual configuration 30)
Fig. 13 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a switch 310 of the information management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Referring to Fig. 13, the switch 310 is an example of a computer, and includes a processor 3102, a main memory 3104, a higher-level communication interface 3106, a field communication interface 3108, and a storage 3120. Each component is electrically connected via a bus 3110.

The processor 3102 is composed of a CPU, MPU, GPU, etc., and realizes the processing of the switch 310 by reading various programs stored in the storage 3120, expanding them in the main memory 3104, and executing them.

The upper communication interface 3106 is responsible for data communication with the information processing device that realizes the private virtual space 20.

The field communication interface 3108 is responsible for transferring frames sent and received from the PLC 300. The field communication interface 3108 includes a communication circuit that complies with a communication standard such as Ethernet (registered trademark).

Storage 3120 typically stores an OS 3122 for implementing basic processing, and a system program 3124 for implementing the management and collection of information as described above.

Figure 13 shows an example of a configuration in which the necessary functions are provided by the processor 3102 executing a program, but some or all of these provided functions may be implemented using a dedicated hardwired circuit (e.g., an ASIC or FPGA.

The network controller 320 is also realized by a hardware configuration example similar to that shown in FIG. 13.

D. Processing Procedure
Next, a processing procedure in information management system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

Figure 14 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure in the information management system 1 according to this embodiment. Figure 14 shows an example including a public virtual space 10, private virtual spaces 20A and 20B, and actual configurations 30A and 30B.

Referring to FIG. 14, the actual configuration 30A is configured (step S2). The configured actual configuration 30A includes a collection entity that can collect information from devices included in the actual configuration 30A, such as a network controller 320 and a monitoring device 330.

The information processing device also generates an asset (instance model) corresponding to the configured actual configuration 30A in the private virtual space 20A in accordance with instructions from the user (step S4). In this way, the information processing device that manages the private virtual space 20A executes a process of generating an instance model (first instance model) corresponding to the actual configuration 30A that includes one or more devices. Note that the instance model is generated using a type model managed by the public virtual space 10.

The collection entity of the real configuration 30A (network controller 320 or monitoring device 330) collects information from devices included in the real configuration 30A (step S6) and transmits the information to the private virtual space 20A (step S8). In this way, the information processing device obtains information from one or more devices included in the real configuration 30A.

The information processing device providing the private virtual space 20A calculates the error (deviation or difference) between the information from the actual configuration 30A and the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20A (step S10), and updates the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20A based on the calculated error (step S12).

In this way, the information processing device updates the instance model (first instance model) corresponding to the actual configuration 30A based on the collected information. More specifically, the information processing device calculates the error between the collected information and the instance model, and updates the instance model by changing the value of the instance model based on the calculated error.

The processing of steps S6 to S12 is repeated according to the operation of the actual configuration 30A and the execution of the processing.

The information processing device providing the private virtual space 20A generates type model information (type information) from the updated instance model (step S14) and transmits it to the public virtual space 10 (step S16). In this way, the information processing device generates type model information based on the instance model (first instance model) corresponding to the updated actual configuration 30A.

The information processing device providing the public virtual space 10 calculates the error (deviation or difference) between the type model information from the private virtual space 20A and the type model managed by the public virtual space 10 (step S18), and updates the type model managed by the public virtual space 10 based on the calculated error (step S20). In this way, the information processing device updates the managed type model based on the generated type model information.

The processes in steps S14 to S20 are repeated as appropriate.
Next, the information processing device generates an asset (instance model) corresponding to the target real configuration 30B in the private virtual space 20B according to the instruction from the user (step S22). In this way, the information processing device that manages the private virtual space 20B instantiates the type model to generate an instance model (second instance model) corresponding to the real configuration 30B. Note that the instance model is generated by using the type model managed by the public virtual space 10.

Alternatively, in the processing example shown in FIG. 10 above, the information processing device managing the private virtual space 20B copies the instance model of the private virtual space 20A and generates an instance model in the private virtual space 20B.

The user then uses the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B to execute a desired simulation, etc. (step S24). The user changes or updates the parameters of the instance model, etc., depending on the results of the simulation. In this way, the information processing device that manages the private virtual space 20B executes a simulation using the newly generated instance model.

When the simulation results show that the desired performance is likely to be achieved, the user reflects the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B in the corresponding real configuration 30B (step S26). In this way, the information processing device reflects the generated instance model in the corresponding new real configuration 30B. More specifically, the process of reflecting the instance model includes a process of setting (copying) the parameters set in the instance model to the corresponding device of the real configuration. As a result, the real configuration 30B will operate according to the settings, etc. corresponding to the instance model generated in the private virtual space 20B.

The processing of steps S2 to S20 and the processing of steps S22 to S26 may be performed in parallel, and the order of execution does not matter.

<E. Application Examples>
The information management system 1 according to the present embodiment is typically applicable to the following fields.

(1) Factory Automation (FA)
The information management system 1 can be applied to simulations of communication between devices and controllers such as PLCs for controlling equipment and lines. By making communication more efficient through such simulations, it is possible to improve control responsiveness and reduce takt time. In addition, it is also possible to perform advance verification of module recombination in response to needs for flexible changes to the manufacturing line.

(2) Building Automation (BA)
The information management system 1 can be applied to simulations of communication between controllers that control elevators, air conditioners, lighting, etc., and each device. By improving the efficiency of communication through such simulations, it is possible to improve control responsiveness. It is also possible to perform advance verification of whether the usage efficiency can be controlled in real time according to the external environment and people's movements.

(3) Process Automation (PA)
The information management system 1 can be applied to simulations of communication between a controller for controlling equipment or processes and each device. By making communication more efficient through such simulations, control responsiveness can be improved. In addition, it is also possible to perform advance verification of whether material and power consumption can be reduced. Furthermore, in response to needs for flexible changes to the manufacturing line, advance verification of module recombination can be performed.

(4) Smart Grid The information management system 1 can be applied to simulations of communication between controllers that control wind power and solar panels and other devices. By improving the efficiency of communication through such simulations, control responsiveness can be improved. In addition, it is also possible to perform advance verification of whether power generation efficiency and usage efficiency can be controlled in real time in response to external environmental factors.

<F. Summary>
The information management system according to the present embodiment manages type models used for simulations and the like, and can update the type models based on information provided from the actual configuration.

Typically, models used for simulations are constructed based on the results of measuring and evaluating the control performance of controllers and the communication performance of network devices during the manufacturing stage. However, depending on the measurement and evaluation methods and conditions, it may not be possible to construct a model that adequately reflects the state of the actual configuration. For this reason, even if evaluation is performed in advance using simulations, it is often necessary to make adjustments in the actual configuration through trial and error.

The information management system according to this embodiment can calculate the error (deviation or difference) between the model and the actual configuration by correctly reflecting the state of the actual configuration in the private virtual space. By feeding back such an error between the model and the actual configuration to the public virtual space, the model accuracy of the type model managed by the public virtual space can be improved.

In addition, the models managed by the public virtual space can be used for the next simulation, allowing the accuracy of the simulation models to be gradually improved.

<G. Notes>
The present embodiment as described above includes the following technical idea.

[Configuration 1]
An information management method executed by one or more computers (150), comprising:
generating (S4) a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices (300, 310);
collecting information from said one or more devices (S6);
updating the first instance model based on the collected information (S12);
generating type model information based on the updated first instance model (S14);
and updating (S20) the managed type model based on the generated type model information.

[Configuration 2]
A step (S22) of instantiating the type model to generate a second instance model;
2. The information management method according to claim 1, further comprising: a step (S26) of reflecting the generated second instance model in a corresponding new actual configuration.

[Configuration 3]
3. The information management method according to configuration 2, wherein the step of generating the second instance model includes the step of copying the first instance model.

[Configuration 4]
The information management method according to configuration 2 or 3, further comprising a step (S24) of executing a simulation using the generated new instance model.

[Configuration 5]
An information management method according to any one of configurations 1 to 4, wherein the step of generating information of the type model includes a step of removing information specific to the instance model from the updated instance model.

[Configuration 6]
The instance model is generated in a limited first virtual space (20);
6. The information management method according to any one of configurations 1 to 5, wherein the type model is managed in a second virtual space (10) accessible from a plurality of first virtual spaces.

[Configuration 7]
The information management method according to any one of configurations 1 to 6, wherein the type model and the instance model are given identification information (101, 111, 201, 211) for identifying the same type.

[Configuration 8]
The information management method according to any one of configurations 1 to 7, wherein the step of updating the first instance model includes a step of calculating an error between the collected information and the first instance model, and changing a value of the first instance model based on the calculated error.

[Configuration 9]
An information management system (1) comprising a first computer (150) and a second computer (150),
The first computer comprises:
A means (S4) for generating a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices;
A means (S8) for acquiring information from the one or more devices;
A means (S12) for updating the first instance model based on the acquired information;
and generating type model information based on the updated first instance model (S14),
The second computer comprises:
The information management system includes a means (S20) for updating a managed type model based on the information of the generated type model.

The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims.

1 Information management system, 10 Public virtual space, 20, 20A, 20B Private virtual space, 30, 30A, 30B Actual configuration, 100, 110 Type model, 101, 111, 201, 211 Identification information, 150 Information processing device, 152, 3102 Processor, 154, 3104 Main memory, 156 Display unit, 158 Input unit, 160 Communication interface, 162, 3110 Bus, 170, 3120 Storage, 172, 3122 OS, 174 Information management program, 176 Data set, 200 Virtual PLC, 210, 212 Virtual switch, 220 Virtual network controller, 230 Virtual monitoring device, 250 Shared data storage unit, 300 PLC, 310, 312 Switch, 320 Network controller, 322 Communication information, 330 monitoring device, 332 production information, 3106 upper communication interface, 3108 field communication interface, 3124 system program.

Claims (9)

1. An information management method executed by one or more computers, comprising:
managing a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices;
collecting information from the one or more devices;
updating the first instance model based on the collected information;
generating type model information based on the updated first instance model;
and updating a managed type model based on the generated type model information. instantiating the type model to generate a second instance model;
The information management method according to claim 1 , further comprising: reflecting the generated second instance model in a corresponding new actual configuration. The information management method according to claim 2, wherein the step of generating the second instance model includes a step of copying the first instance model. The information management method according to claim 2 or 3, further comprising a step of executing a simulation using the generated new instance model. The information management method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the step of generating the type model information includes a step of removing information specific to the instance model from the updated instance model. The instance model is managed in a limited first virtual space;
6. The information management method according to claim 1, wherein the type model is managed in a second virtual space accessible from a plurality of first virtual spaces. The information management method according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the type model and the instance model are given identification information for identifying the same type. The information management method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the step of updating the first instance model includes a step of calculating an error between the collected information and the first instance model, and changing a value of the first instance model based on the calculated error. An information management system including a first computer and a second computer,
The first computer comprises:
means for managing a first instance model corresponding to an actual configuration including one or more devices;
means for obtaining information from said one or more devices;
means for updating the first instance model based on the acquired information;
generating type model information based on the updated first instance model;
The second computer comprises:
The information management system includes a means for updating a managed type model based on the generated type model information.

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