JP7761140B2 - display device - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a display device.

Guidelines for semiconductor manufacturing equipment are defined by SEMI (Semiconductor Equipment and Materials International) standards. SEMI E95 defines specifications for the human interface of semiconductor manufacturing equipment. According to SEMI E95, the management screen displayed on a display device used with semiconductor manufacturing equipment has a title panel, information panel, command panel, and navigation panel. Display devices used with semiconductor manufacturing equipment may display dialog boxes such as error messages.

The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 relates to modal and modeless dialogs. A modal dialog is a type of dialog box that prevents operation of other areas and elements on the screen. A modeless dialog is a type of dialog box that allows operation of other areas and elements on the screen.

Patent No. 6542163

When displaying a dialog box, the control screen displayed on a display device used in semiconductor manufacturing equipment must be displayed in a manner that complies with the specifications defined in SEMI E95. Specifically, when displaying a dialog box, the control screen must be displayed in a manner that locks the information panel and command panel so that they cannot be operated, and leaves the title panel and navigation panel unlocked.

If modal or modeless dialogs are used as is, the management screen displayed on the display device will not meet the specifications set out in SEMI E95. While it is possible to meet the specifications set out in SEMI E95 by improving the modal or modeless dialogs, the management screen displayed on the display device will have an extremely complex configuration.

One aspect of the present invention is a display device used in a system for transporting or storing items. The display device is capable of displaying a window assigned to software used in the system. The display device is capable of displaying a message box embedded within the window area to notify a user of a message. The window includes a first area in which a first operation element is displayed as an operation element operable by the user. The window includes a second area in which a second operation element is displayed as an operation element. The second operation element includes a first switching operation element that instructs the display of the first area to switch from the first display to the second display. The second operation element includes a second switching operation element that instructs the display of the first area to switch from the second display to the first display. When displaying a message box, the display device displays the operation element displayed in the area in which the message box is embedded as inoperable, and displays the operation element displayed in other areas as operable. When displaying the message box, the display device displays the message box embedded within the first area. The display device is capable of displaying, as the message box, a dialog box that prompts the user to perform at least one of a character input operation and an item selection operation. If the first switching operation element is operated when the operation on the dialog box is not completed, the display device hides the dialog box when switching to the second display. If the second switching operation element is operated when the dialog box is hidden, the display device re-displays the dialog box reflecting the operation performed before hiding it when switching to the first display.

The display device of the presented embodiment has a simple configuration that, when a message box is displayed, disables the first operating element displayed in the first area and enables the second operating element displayed in the second area. In other words, the display device of the presented embodiment can meet the specifications defined in SEMI E95 with a simple configuration.

The display device may be capable of displaying information about the system in the first area. The display device may display a message box in a draggable manner. In this embodiment, when information displayed in the first area is obscured by the message box and becomes difficult or impossible to see, the display device can drag the message box to make the information visible.

The display device may be capable of displaying multiple windows assigned to software. The display device may display the message box embedded within the area of the active window among the multiple windows when the message box is displayed. The display device may display the message box so that it cannot be dragged outside the active window. When displaying a message box while multiple windows are displayed, the display device of this embodiment allows the user to reliably identify which window the displayed message box corresponds to.

The display device may display the message box so that it cannot be dragged outside the first area. In this embodiment, even if the message box is dragged, the display device does not interfere with operations on the second operation element displayed in the second area.

The second operation element may include a first switching operation element that gives an instruction to switch the display of the first area from the first display to the second display. The second operation element may include a second switching operation element that gives an instruction to switch the display of the first area from the second display to the first display. If the first switching operation element is operated while a message box is displayed, the display device may hide the message box when switching to the second display. If the second switching operation element is operated while the message box is hidden, the display device may re-display the message box when switching to the first display. In this embodiment, if a message box is displayed while the first display is being performed, the display device can notify the content communicated by the message box even if it is switched to the second display and then returned to the first display.

The display device may be capable of displaying a dialog box as a message box, prompting the user to perform at least one of a character input operation and an item selection operation. If the first switching operation element is operated when the operation on the dialog box is incomplete, the display device may hide the dialog box when switching to the second display. If the second switching operation element is operated when the dialog box is hidden, the display device may re-display the dialog box reflecting the operation performed before hiding it when switching to the first display. The display device of this embodiment can eliminate the need to redo the operation on the re-displayed dialog box when hiding a dialog box on which the operation is incomplete.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, are included for the purpose of illustrating the principles of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention to the particular embodiments illustrated herein. The drawings are not to scale unless specifically indicated otherwise.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a transport system TS1 according to one embodiment. 1 is a block diagram of a transportation management device 100 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the screen layout of window W1 according to one embodiment. 10 is a flowchart for displaying a message box MB1 according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a message box MB1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example regarding dragging of a message box MB1 according to an embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a window system according to an embodiment. 10 is a flowchart for displaying a message box MB1 in a window system according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a display of a message box MB1 in a window system according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display example regarding dragging of a message box MB1 in a window system according to an embodiment. 10 is a flowchart relating to the display of a message box MB1 accompanying switching of the display in the first area according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a message box MB1 displayed when the display of the first area is switched according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a message box MB1 displayed when the display of the first area is switched according to an embodiment. 10 is a flowchart relating to the display of a message box MB1 accompanying switching of the display in the first area according to one embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a dialog box DB1 according to an embodiment. 10 is a flowchart relating to the display of a dialog box DB1 accompanying switching of the display in the first area according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a dialog box DB1 when the display of the first area is switched according to an embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a dialog box DB1 when the display of the first area is switched according to an embodiment.

Reference will now be made in detail to preferred embodiments of the invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. While the invention will be described in conjunction with the preferred embodiments, it should be understood that there is no intention to limit the invention to these embodiments. On the contrary, the invention is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents, which may be included within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims. Furthermore, in the following detailed description of the invention, numerous specific details are set forth to provide a thorough understanding of the invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, components, and circuits have not been described in detail as not to unnecessarily obscure aspects of the invention.

Figure 1 is a block diagram of a transport system TS1 according to one embodiment. The transport system TS1 is a system that transports items. The transport system TS1 is equipped with a transport management device 100. The transport management device 100 is a computer that manages information related to the transport system TS1.

Figure 2 is a block diagram of a transport management device 100 according to one embodiment. The transport management device 100 comprises a central processing unit 110, a memory device 120, an input device 130 and an output device 140.

The central processing unit 110 is a device that controls the memory device 120, input device 130, and output device 140, and performs data calculations, etc.

The storage device 120 is a device for saving and storing data and programs. The storage device 120 stores, for example, the transport software used in the transport system TS1.

The input device 130 is a device for providing data, information, instructions, etc. to the transport management device 100. The input device 130 is, for example, a mouse or a touch panel. A mouse is an egg-sized device that is moved on a flat surface to indicate the amount and direction of movement. A touch panel is a device that allows input by touching the screen with a fingertip or a special pen.

The output device 140 is a device that receives data from the storage device 120 and physically presents it externally in a form that can be recognized by humans. The transport management device 100 is equipped with a display device 141 as the output device 140. The display device 141 is a display that emits light on the screen to project an image.

Figure 3 shows the screen layout of window W1 in one embodiment. When the transport software is executed, the display device 141 displays window W1 on the display screen F1. Window W1 is a rectangular display area allocated to the transport software on the display screen F1 of the display device 141. The screen layout of window W1 defines how the display and operation elements of the transport software are arranged on the display screen F1.

The screen layout of window W1 has a title panel P1, an information panel P2, a command panel P3, and a navigation panel P4. The display area of the information panel P2 and the display area of the command panel P3 are examples of the first area. The display area of the title panel P1 and the display area of the navigation panel P4 are examples of the second area.

The title panel P1 is an area where a GUI (Graphical User Interface) that can be operated by the user is displayed. The GUI makes extensive use of images and figures to present information, and is an operational element that allows most basic operations to be performed by specifying a position on the display screen F1 using a mouse, touch panel, etc. In the screen layout of this embodiment, the GUI displayed on the title panel P1 is a first button B1 and a second button B2. The buttons are rectangular input elements for selecting an item. The first button B1 and the second button B2 are examples of second operational elements.

The information panel P2 is an area where a GUI that can be operated by the user and information about the transport system TS1 are displayed. In the screen layout of the embodiment, the GUI displayed on the information panel P2 is a first radio button RB1 and a second radio button RB2. A radio button is a small, round button-shaped input element for selecting one item from multiple items. The first radio button RB1 and the second radio button RB2 are examples of a first operation element.

The command panel P3 is an area where a GUI that can be operated by the user is displayed. In the screen layout of the embodiment, the GUI displayed in the command panel P3 is the third button B3 and the fourth button B4. The third button B3 and the fourth button B4 are examples of the first operation element.

The navigation panel P4 is an area where a GUI that can be operated by the user is displayed. In the screen layout of the embodiment, the GUIs displayed on the navigation panel P4 are the fifth button B5 and the sixth button B6. The fifth button B5 is a GUI that gives an instruction to switch the display of the information panel P2 from the first display to the second display. The sixth button B6 is a GUI that gives an instruction to switch the display of the information panel P2 from the second display to the first display. The fifth button B5 and the sixth button B6 are examples of a second operation element. The fifth button B5 is an example of a first switching operation element. The sixth button B6 is an example of a second switching operation element.

Figure 4 is a flowchart related to the display of message box MB1 according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is a diagram showing an example of the display of message box MB1 according to one embodiment. Message box MB1 is a rectangular area displayed on the display screen F1 of display device 141 to notify the user of some kind of communication. The following describes the processing related to the display of message box MB1. For example, the central processing unit 110 sets an interval timer when executing the transport software, and executes the processing shown in Figure 4 using the first interrupt signal generated by the interval timer as the first trigger. The interval timer is a mechanism that notifies the user every time a certain amount of time has passed. The first interrupt signal is a signal that causes the central processing unit 110 to temporarily suspend the currently executing processing and forcibly execute the processing shown in Figure 4. The first trigger is a mechanism in the transport software that automatically starts the processing shown in Figure 4 when the first interrupt signal is generated.

First, the central processing unit 110 determines whether there is any information to be communicated to the user (S101). In S101, the central processing unit 110 determines that there is information to be communicated to the user, for example, when a failure occurs in the transport system TS1. The central processing unit 110 determines that there is information to be communicated to the user, for example, when an error occurs in the processing of the transport software. The central processing unit 110 determines that there is information to be communicated to the user, for example, when a failure occurs in the transport management device 100. The central processing unit 110 determines that there is information to be communicated to the user, for example, when data, information, instructions, etc. input using the input device 130 are not permitted.

If there is no communication content to be notified to the user in S101 (S101; NO), the central processing unit 110 terminates the processing shown in Figure 4.

If there is information to be communicated to the user in S101 (S101; YES), the central processing unit 110 displays a message box MB1 embedded within the display area of the first region (S102). In S102, the central processing unit 110 displays the message box MB1 embedded within the display area surrounding the information panel P2 and the command panel P3. When the processing of S102 is executed, the display device 141 displays the message box MB1 embedded within the display area surrounding the information panel P2 and the command panel P3, as shown in FIG. 5. The central processing unit 110 displays window W1, for example, as a frame window. The display position of window W1 is defined in the screen coordinate system. Furthermore, the central processing unit 110 displays, for example, a title panel P1, an information panel P2, a command panel P3, and a navigation panel P4 in the client window of window W1. The central processing unit 110 then displays the message box MB1, for example, as a document window for window W1. The display position of the message box MB1 is defined in the client coordinate system in the client area of the window W1. The central processing unit 110 defines the display position of the message box MB1 so that the message box MB1 is displayed within the display area surrounding the information panel P2 and the command panel P3 displayed in the client window.

Next, the central processing unit 110 displays the first operating element as inoperable (S103). In S103, the central processing unit 110 displays the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 as inoperable. In Figure 5, the hatched area is the display area where the GUI is displayed as inoperable. When the processing of S103 is executed, the display device 141 displays the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 as inoperable, as shown in Figure 5.

Next, the central processing unit 110 determines whether the operation on message box MB1 has been completed (S104). For example, the central processing unit 110 sets an interval timer when message box MB1 is displayed, and executes the processing of S104 using a second interrupt signal generated by the interval timer as a second trigger. The second interrupt signal is a signal that causes the central processing unit 110 to temporarily suspend the processing currently being executed and forcibly execute processing of S104. The second trigger is a mechanism in the transport software that automatically launches processing of S104 when the second interrupt signal is generated.

If the operation on message box MB1 has not been completed at S104 (S104; NO), the central processing unit 110 resumes the processing that was being executed up to that point.

If the operation on message box MB1 is completed in S104 (S104; YES), the central processing unit 110 closes message box MB1 (S105).

Next, the central processing unit 110 displays the first operating element in an operable manner (S106). In S106, the central processing unit 110 displays the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 in an operable manner.

Figure 6 shows an example display of message box MB1 being dragged in one embodiment. Message box MB1 is draggable. Dragging involves holding down a mouse button while moving the mouse, or an equivalent operation on other devices. Because message box MB1 is displayed embedded within the first area, it cannot be dragged outside the first area. Even if message box MB1 is dragged outside the display area of the first area, it will not move beyond the boundary of the first area, as shown in Figure 6.

Figure 7 is a diagram showing an example of a window system display according to one embodiment. The transport software can employ a window system. The window system is a method of simultaneously displaying multiple windows W1 assigned to the transport software on the display screen F1 of the display device 141, allowing them to be instantly switched between. The window W1 displayed in the foreground is the active window. The active window is the window W1 currently selected and the window being operated on.

Figure 8 is a flowchart related to the display of a message box MB1 in a window system according to one embodiment. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of the display of a message box MB1 in a window system according to one embodiment. In Figure 8, processes that are the same as those shown in Figure 4 are assigned the same reference numerals. The following describes the process related to the display of a message box MB1 in a window system. For example, the central processing unit 110 sets an interval timer when executing the transport software, and executes the process shown in Figure 8 using the third interrupt signal generated by the interval timer as the third trigger. The third interrupt signal is a signal that causes the central processing unit 110 to temporarily suspend the currently executing process and forcibly execute the process shown in Figure 8. The third trigger is a mechanism in the transport software that automatically starts the process shown in Figure 8 when the third interrupt signal is generated.

First, the central processing unit 110 determines whether there is any communication content that should be notified to the user (S101).

If there is no communication content to be notified to the user in S101 (S101; NO), the central processing unit 110 terminates the processing shown in Figure 8.

If there is information to be communicated to the user in S101 (S101; YES), the central processing unit 110 displays a message box MB1 embedded in the display area of the first region in the active window (S202). In S202, the central processing unit 110 displays the message box MB1 embedded in the display area surrounding the information panel P2 and command panel P3 in the active window. When the processing of S202 is executed, the display device 141 displays the message box MB1 embedded in the display area surrounding the information panel P2 and command panel P3 in the active window, as shown in FIG. 9.

Next, the central processing unit 110 displays the first operational element in the active window as inoperable (S203). In S203, the central processing unit 110 displays the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 in the active window as inoperable. In Figure 9, the hatched area is the display area in which the GUI is displayed as inoperable. When the processing of S203 is executed, the display device 141 displays the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 as inoperable, as shown in Figure 9.

Next, the central processing unit 110 determines whether the operation on message box MB1 has been completed (S104).

If the operation on message box MB1 has not been completed at S104 (S104; NO), the central processing unit 110 resumes the processing that was being executed up to that point.

If the operation on message box MB1 is completed in S104 (S104; YES), the central processing unit 110 closes message box MB1 (S105).

Next, the central processing unit 110 displays the first operational element in the active window in an operable manner (S206). In S206, the central processing unit 110 displays the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 in the active window in an operable manner.

Figure 10 shows an example display of message box MB1 being dragged in a window system according to one embodiment. Because message box MB1 is displayed embedded in the first region of the active window, it cannot be dragged outside the first region of the active window. Even if message box MB1 is dragged outside the display area of the first region of the active window, it will not move beyond the boundary of the first region, as shown in Figure 10.

Figure 11 is a flowchart related to the display of a message box MB1 in response to a change in display in the first area according to one embodiment. Figures 12 and 13 are diagrams showing an example of the display of a message box MB1 in response to a change in display in the first area according to one embodiment. The following describes the processing related to the display of a message box MB1 in response to a change in display on the information panel P2. For example, the central processing unit 110 sets an interval timer when executing the transport software, and executes the processing shown in Figure 11 using the fourth interrupt signal generated by the interval timer as the fourth trigger. The interval timer is a mechanism that notifies the user that a certain period of time has elapsed. The fourth interrupt signal is a signal that causes the central processing unit 110 to temporarily suspend the processing currently being executed and forcibly execute the processing shown in Figure 11. The fourth trigger is a mechanism in the transport software that automatically launches the processing shown in Figure 11 when the fourth interrupt signal is generated.

When the display of the information panel P2 is set to the first display, the central processing unit 110 displays, for example, the first information as information relating to the transport system TS1. When the display of the information panel P2 is set to the second display, the central processing unit 110 displays, for example, the second information as information relating to the transport system TS1. The following description will be given assuming that the state in which the display of the information panel P2 is set to the first display is the initial state.

First, the central processing unit 110 determines whether the first switching operation element has been operated (S301). In S301, the central processing unit 110 determines that the first switching operation element has been operated when the fifth button B5 has been pressed.

If the first switching operation element is not operated in S301 (S301; NO), the central processing unit 110 terminates the processing shown in FIG. 11.

If the first switching operation element is operated in S301 (S301; YES), the central processing unit 110 determines whether the message box MB1 is being displayed (S302). The storage device 120 stores, for example, a flag indicating whether the message box MB1 is being displayed. The flag is an area for saving the results when the display state of the message box MB1 is changed. For example, if the message box MB1 is not being displayed, the flag takes the value "0." For example, if the message box MB1 is being displayed, the flag takes the value "1." The central processing unit 110 changes the value of the flag to "1," for example, when it executes the processes of S102 and S202. The central processing unit 110 changes the value of the flag to "0," for example, when it executes the process of S105. In S302, the central processing unit 110 determines whether the message box MB1 is being displayed, for example, by referencing the value of the flag.

If message box MB1 is being displayed in S302 (S302; YES), the central processing unit 110 hides message box MB1 (S303).

If the message box MB1 is not being displayed in S302 (S302; NO), or after executing the processing of S303, the central processing unit 110 switches the display of the first area from the first display to the second display (S304). In S304, the central processing unit 110 switches, for example, the display of the information panel P2 from the first display to the second display.

Next, the central processing unit 110 displays the first operating element in an operable manner (S305). In S305, the central processing unit 110 displays, for example, the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 in an operable manner. When the processing of S303 to S305 is executed, the display device 141 hides the message box MB1 and switches the display of the information panel P2 from the first display shown in FIG. 12 to the second display shown in FIG. 13. When switching the display of the information panel P2, the display device 141 displays the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 in an operable manner.

Next, the central processing unit 110 determines whether the second switching operation element has been operated (S306). For example, the central processing unit 110 sets an interval timer when the display of the first area is switched to the second display, and executes the processing of S306 using the fifth interrupt signal generated by the interval timer as the fifth trigger. The fifth interrupt signal is a signal that causes the central processing unit 110 to temporarily suspend the processing currently being executed and forcibly execute the processing of S306. The fifth trigger is a mechanism in the transport software that automatically starts the processing of S306 when the fifth interrupt signal is generated. In S306, the central processing unit 110 determines that the second switching operation element has been operated when the sixth button B6 has been pressed.

If the second switching operation element is not operated at S306 (S306; NO), the central processing unit 110 resumes the processing that was being executed up to that point.

If the second switching operation element is operated in S306 (S306; YES), the central processing unit 110 switches the display of the first area from the second display to the first display (S307). In S307, the central processing unit 110 switches, for example, the display of the information panel P2 from the second display to the first display.

Next, the central processing unit 110 re-displays the message box MB1 (S308). In S308, the central processing unit 110 re-displays the message box MB1 that was hidden in S303.

Next, the central processing unit 110 displays the first operation element as inoperable (S309). In S309, the central processing unit 110 displays, for example, the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 as inoperable. When the processes of S307 to S309 are executed, the display device 141 switches the display of the information panel P2 from the second display shown in FIG. 13 to the first display shown in FIG. 12 and redisplays the message box MB1. When switching the display of the information panel P2, the display device 141 displays the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 as inoperable. The message box MB1 only needs to be redisplayed within the display area of the first region, and may be redisplayed in a position different from the position before it was hidden.

Figure 14 is a flowchart related to the display of a message box MB1 in response to a change in display in the first area according to one embodiment. In Figure 14, processes that are the same as those shown in Figure 11 are given the same reference numerals. Below, a modified example of the process related to the display of a message box MB1 in response to a change in display in the first area will be described, assuming that the initial state is when the display of the information panel P2 is in the first display.

First, the central processing unit 110 determines whether the first switching operation element has been operated (S301).

If the first switching operation element is not operated in S301 (S301; NO), the central processing unit 110 terminates the processing shown in FIG. 14.

If the first switching operation element is operated in S301 (S301; YES), the central processing unit 110 determines whether the message box MB1 is being displayed (S302).

If message box MB1 is being displayed in S302 (S302; YES), central processing unit 110 hides message box MB1 (S403). In S403, central processing unit 110 stores, in storage device 120, the position information of message box MB1 at the time of hiding. For example, central processing unit 110 stores, in storage device 120, the absolute coordinates of message box MB1 in the coordinate system of display screen F1. For example, central processing unit 110 stores, in storage device 120, the relative coordinates of message box MB1 with respect to window W1 in the coordinate system of display screen F1. For example, central processing unit 110 stores, in storage device 120, the relative coordinates of message box MB1 with respect to the first area.

If the message box MB1 is not being displayed in S302 (S302; NO), or after executing the processing of S403, the central processing unit 110 switches the display of the first area from the first display to the second display (S304).

Next, the central processing unit 110 displays the first operating element in an operable manner (S305).

Next, the central processing unit 110 determines whether the second switching operation element has been operated (S306).

If the second switching operation element is not operated at S306 (S306; NO), the central processing unit 110 resumes the processing that was being executed up to that point.

If the second switching operation element is operated in S306 (S306; YES), the central processing unit 110 switches the display of the first area from the second display to the first display (S307).

Next, the central processing unit 110 re-displays the message box MB1 (S408). In S408, the central processing unit 110 re-displays the message box MB1 in the same position as when it was hidden. The central processing unit 110, for example, reads the position information of the message box MB1 from the storage device 120 and re-displays the message box MB1 according to the read position information.

Next, the central processing unit 110 displays the first operating element as inoperable (S309).

In the embodiment shown in Figures 3 to 14, the message box MB1 displays a message in text or the like and a single button labeled "OK" or the like. The display device 141 is capable of displaying a dialog box DB1 as the message box MB1. The dialog box DB1 is a rectangular area displayed to prompt the user to enter some kind of input.

Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of the display of a dialog box DB1 according to one embodiment. In the embodiment shown in Figure 15, the display device 141 displays a dialog box DB1 that prompts the user to enter characters for an ID (identification) and a password. The dialog box DB1 may be of any type that prompts the user to enter some kind of input, and is not limited to a type that prompts the user to enter characters. The dialog box DB1 may be of a type that prompts the user to select an item from a list. The dialog box DB1 may be of a type that requires complex operations, such as combining multiple input elements.

Figure 16 is a flowchart related to the display of the dialog box DB1 when the display in the first area is switched in one embodiment. Figures 17 and 18 are diagrams showing an example of the display of the dialog box DB1 when the display in the first area is switched in one embodiment. In Figure 16, processes that are the same as those shown in Figure 11 are given the same symbols. Below, the process related to the display of the dialog box DB1 when the display in the first area is switched is explained, assuming that the initial state is when the display of the information panel P2 is in the first display.

First, the central processing unit 110 determines whether the first switching operation element has been operated (S301).

If the first switching operation element is not operated in S301 (S301; NO), the central processing unit 110 terminates the processing shown in FIG. 16.

If the first switching operation element is operated in S301 (S301; YES), the central processing unit 110 determines whether the dialog box DB1 is being displayed (S502). The storage device 120 stores, for example, a flag indicating whether the dialog box DB1 is being displayed. The flag is an area for saving the results when the display state of the dialog box DB1 is changed. For example, if the dialog box DB1 is not being displayed, the flag takes the value "0." For example, if the dialog box DB1 is being displayed, the flag takes the value "1." For example, the central processing unit 110 changes the value of the flag to "1" when the dialog box DB1 is displayed. For example, the central processing unit 110 changes the value of the flag to "0" when the dialog box DB1 is closed. In S502, the central processing unit 110, for example, references the value of the flag to determine whether the dialog box DB1 is being displayed.

If dialog box DB1 is being displayed in S502 (S502; YES), the central processing unit 110 hides dialog box DB1 (S503). In S503, the central processing unit 110 stores information regarding the input status for dialog box DB1 at the time of hiding in the storage device 120. If a dialog box DB1 of the type that prompts the user to input characters is displayed, the central processing unit 110 stores the character information that has already been entered in the storage device 120. If a dialog box DB1 of the type that prompts the user to select an item from a list is displayed, the central processing unit 110 stores information regarding the item that has already been selected in the storage device 120. If a dialog box DB1 of the type that requires complex operations, such as combining multiple input elements, is displayed, the central processing unit 110 stores information regarding operations that have already been performed in the storage device 120.

If the dialog box DB1 is not being displayed in S502 (S502; NO), or after executing the processing of S503, the central processing unit 110 switches the display of the first area from the first display to the second display (S304).

Next, the central processing unit 110 displays the first operating element in an operable manner (S305). When the processes of S503, S304, and S305 are executed, the display device 141 hides the dialog box DB1 and switches the display of the information panel P2 from the first display shown in Figure 17 to the second display shown in Figure 18. When switching the display of the information panel P2, the display device 141 displays the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 in an operable manner.

Next, the central processing unit 110 determines whether the second switching operation element has been operated (S306).

If the second switching operation element is not operated at S306 (S306; NO), the central processing unit 110 resumes the processing that was being executed up to that point.

If the second switching operation element is operated in S306 (S306; YES), the central processing unit 110 switches the display of the first area from the second display to the first display (S307).

Next, the central processing unit 110 re-displays the dialog box DB1 (S508). In S508, the central processing unit 110 re-displays the dialog box DB1 so that the input state when it was hidden in S503 is maintained. The central processing unit 110, for example, reads information regarding the input state for the dialog box DB1 from the storage device 120 and re-displays the dialog box DB1 in accordance with the read information.

Next, the central processing unit 110 displays the first operating element as inoperable (S309). When the processes of S307, S508, and S309 are executed, the display device 141 switches the display of the information panel P2 from the second display shown in FIG. 18 to the first display shown in FIG. 17, and re-displays the dialog box DB1. When switching the display of the information panel P2, the display device 141 displays the first radio button RB1, the second radio button RB2, the third button B3, and the fourth button B4 as inoperable. The dialog box DB1 only needs to be re-displayed within the display area of the first region, and may be re-displayed in a position different from the position before it was hidden.

It should be understood that embodiments of the present invention are compatible with and may be implemented in a variety of different types of tangible storage devices 120. Storage devices 120 may be considered non-transitory storage media, even though they may be altered or rewritten. The reference to non-transitory storage media is not intended to limit the nature of the media, which may include a variety of storage media, and non-transitory computer-readable media includes all computer-readable media. The only exception is a transitory propagating signal.

It should be understood that the following is a list of exemplary concepts or embodiments associated with the novel techniques. It should also be understood that this list is not exhaustive and does not necessarily include all possible embodiments. The following concepts and embodiments may be implemented in hardware. In one embodiment, the following method or process describes operations performed by various processing components or units. In an exemplary embodiment, instructions or instructions associated with a method, process, operation, etc. may be stored in a memory and may cause a processor to perform the operation, function, act, etc.

The display device 141 is used in the transport system TS1, which transports items. The display device 141 is capable of displaying a window W1 assigned to the transport software used in the transport system TS1. The display device 141 is capable of displaying a message box MB1 that is embedded within the window W1 and notifies the user of the content of the message. The window W1 includes an information panel P2 that displays a first radio button RB1 and a second radio button RB2 as user-operable operation elements. The window W1 includes a command panel P3 that displays a third button B3 and a fourth button B4 as user-operable operation elements. The window W1 includes a title panel P1 that displays a first button B1 and a second button B2 as operation elements. The window W1 includes a navigation panel P4 that displays a fifth button B5 and a sixth button B6 as operation elements. When the display device 141 displays the message box MB1, the operation elements displayed in the area where the message box MB1 is embedded are displayed inoperable, and the operation elements displayed in other areas are displayed operable. When displaying the message box MB1, the display device 141 embeds and displays the message box MB1 within an area surrounding the information panel P2 and the command panel P3.

The display device 141 of this embodiment has a simple configuration that disables the operation elements displayed in the area surrounding the information panel P2 and command panel P3 when the message box MB1 is displayed. The display device 141 has a simple configuration that enables the operation elements displayed in the title panel P1 area and the navigation panel P4 area when the message box MB1 is displayed. In other words, the display device 141 of this embodiment can meet the specifications set forth in SEMI E95 with a simple configuration.

The display device 141 can display information about the transport system TS1 on the information panel P2. The display device 141 displays a message box MB1 that can be dragged.

In this embodiment, when the information displayed on the information panel P2 is hidden by the message box MB1 and becomes difficult or impossible to see, the display device 141 allows the information to be made visible by dragging the message box MB1.

The display device 141 is capable of displaying multiple windows W1 assigned to the transport software. The display device 141 displays the message box MB1 embedded within the area of the active window when the message box MB1 is displayed among the multiple windows W1. The display device 141 displays the message box MB1 so that it cannot be dragged outside the range of the active window.

In this embodiment, when displaying a message box MB1 while multiple windows W1 are displayed, the display device 141 can reliably recognize which window W1 the message box MB1 corresponds to.

The display device 141 displays the message box MB1 so that it cannot be dragged outside the area surrounding the information panel P2 and the command panel P3.

In this embodiment, the display device 141 does not interfere with operations on the operating elements displayed on the title panel P1 and navigation panel P4 even when the message box MB1 is dragged.

The fifth button B5 issues an instruction to switch the display of the information panel P2 from the first display to the second display. The sixth button B6 issues an instruction to switch the display of the information panel P2 from the second display to the first display. If the fifth button B5 is operated when the message box MB1 is displayed, the display device 141 will hide the message box MB1 when switching to the second display. If the sixth button B6 is operated when the message box MB1 is hidden, the display device 141 will re-display the message box MB1 when switching to the first display.

In this embodiment, when the display device 141 displays the message box MB1 while the first display is being displayed, it can notify the content communicated by the message box MB1 even if it is switched to the second display and then returned to the first display.

The display device 141 is capable of displaying a dialog box DB1 as a message box MB1, which prompts the user to perform at least one of a character input operation and an item selection operation. If the fifth button B5 is operated when the operation on the dialog box DB1 has not been completed, the display device 141 hides the dialog box DB1 when switching to the second display. If the sixth button B6 is operated when the dialog box DB1 is hidden, the display device 141 re-displays the dialog box DB1 reflecting the operations performed before hiding it when switching to the first display.

In this embodiment, the display device 141 can eliminate the need to redo operations on a re-displayed dialog box DB1 when the dialog box DB1 on which operations have not been completed is hidden.

The foregoing descriptions of specific embodiments of the present invention have been presented for purposes of illustration and description. They are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed, and it will be apparent that many modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. These embodiments best explain the principles of the present invention and its practical application. Thus, these embodiments were chosen and described to enable others skilled in the art to best utilize the present invention and its various embodiments, with various modifications suited to the particular uses contemplated. It is intended that the scope of the present invention be defined by the claims appended hereto, and any equivalents thereof. Furthermore, to the extent permitted by law, the disclosures of Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-076185 and all documents cited in the above embodiments, etc., are incorporated herein by reference.

The display device 141 in the above embodiment is a display used in the transport system TS1. The display device 141 may be any display that displays in accordance with the SEMI standard, and is not limited to a display used in the transport system TS1. The display device 141 may be, for example, a display used in an item storage system that stores items.

100 Transport management device, 110 Central processing unit, 120 Storage device, 130 Input device, 140 Output device, 141 Display device, B1 First button, B2 Second button, B3 Third button, B4 Fourth button, B5 Fifth button, B6 Sixth button, DB1 Dialog box, F1 Display screen, MB1 Message box, P1 Title panel, P2 Information panel, P3 Command panel, P4 Navigation panel, RB1 First radio button, RB2 Second radio button, TS1 Transport system, W1 Window

Claims (4)

A display device used in a system for transporting or storing items,
a window allocated to software used in the system;
A message box is displayed embedded in the window area and notifies the user of the contents of the message.
The window is
a first area in which a first operation element is displayed as an operation element operable by a user;
a second area in which a second operation element is displayed as the operation element,
The second operating element is
a first switching operation element that issues an instruction to switch the display of the first area from a first display to a second display;
a second switching operation element that gives an instruction to switch the display of the first area from the second display to the first display,
When the message box is displayed, the operation element displayed in the area in which the message box is embedded is displayed in an inoperable state, and the operation element displayed in another area is displayed in an operable state;
When displaying the message box, the message box is embedded in the first area and displayed ;
As the message box, a dialogue box can be displayed that prompts the user to perform at least one of a character input operation and an item selection operation,
If the first switching operation element is operated when the operation on the dialog box has not been completed, the dialog box is hidden when switching to the second display;
A display device that, when the second switching operation element is operated while the dialog box is hidden, re-displays the dialog box, reflecting the operation performed before the dialog box was hidden, when switching to the first display . information about the system can be displayed in the first area;
The display device according to claim 1 , wherein the message box is displayed in a draggable manner. A plurality of the windows assigned to the software can be displayed;
The message box is displayed by being embedded within the area of an active window among the plurality of windows when the message box is displayed;
The display device according to claim 2 , wherein the message box is displayed so that it cannot be dragged outside the range of the active window. The display device of claim 2, wherein the message box is displayed so that it cannot be dragged outside the first area.