JP7819670B2 - Production Instruction System - Google Patents

Description

This disclosure relates to a production instruction system.

Patent Document 1 discloses a production support system for workers in a cell production system in which one worker is responsible for many tasks to assemble a single product from multiple types of parts. In this production support system, a parts supply device supplies parts to workers under computer control. The worker receives the parts and performs assembly work while checking the information displayed on the computer's display. When the parts supply device supplies a part, the computer monitors whether the worker has picked up the part, and controls the equipment so that the next process cannot be carried out until the part has been picked up.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-313294

The production support system in Patent Document 1 is a dedicated facility for manufacturing a single product. In recent years, manufacturing equipment has been used that can receive manufacturing instruction data for multiple types of products from a computer and automatically manufacture the products in accordance with the manufacturing instructions. In such manufacturing equipment, the manufacturing equipment holds identification information for each of the multiple types of products. The computer is communicatively connected to the manufacturing equipment. A worker inputs instructions to the manufacturing equipment, requesting that the computer send identification information for a specific product they wish to manufacture. In accordance with the worker's input, the manufacturing equipment transmits the product identification information and a request signal requesting manufacturing instructions to the computer. In response to the request signal, the computer transmits product instruction data to the manufacturing equipment. The manufacturing equipment automatically manufactures the product in accordance with information indicating the work process contained in the instruction data. In this way, the manufacturing equipment can manufacture a specific product from among multiple types of products.

In this type of manufacturing equipment, workers must input instructions to the manufacturing equipment to send information about the products they want to manufacture to a computer, which can be a burden on workers. To reduce this burden, a system that reduces the amount of instruction input required by workers is needed.

This disclosure can be realized in the following forms:

(1) According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a production instruction system is provided, which includes one or more production devices capable of producing a plurality of types of parts, including parts of the same type produced with different specifications, a plurality of arrangement units, each of which is used to produce one of the plurality of types of parts and is exchangeably arranged on the production device, and which includes an information storage unit that stores information on the type of one of the parts and is configured to be able to overwrite new specification information while the specification information is being stored, an information writing unit that can acquire information stored in the information storage unit and overwrite the new specification information on the information storage unit, and a production instruction system that stores predetermined production specifications for the plurality of types of parts. and an information holding device that holds a list of orders, wherein the information writing unit acquires information on the type of the one part held by the information holding unit of the placement unit arranged on the production equipment and transmits the acquired information on the type of the one part to the information holding device, the information holding device transmits information on the new specification according to the order of the list based on the received information on the type of the one part to the information writing unit, the information writing unit overwrites the received information on the new specification on the information holding unit that acquired the information on the type of the one part, and the production equipment is arranged with the placement unit having the information holding unit overwritten with the information on the new specification, and produces the part on the placement unit based on the information on the new specification.
In this type of production instruction system, the information writing unit receives new specification information corresponding to the order of the list stored in the information storage device. The information writing unit overwrites the new specification information in the information storage unit, and the production device produces parts corresponding to the specifications stored in the information storage unit on the placement unit, eliminating the need for workers to input new specification information into the production device. This reduces the burden on workers compared to a system in which workers input specification information into the production device each time, and the production device produces parts according to the input information.
(2) The production instruction system of the above form may further include a waiting section that is installed in a location different from the production device and where the plurality of placement sections wait, and a transport section that is capable of transporting the placement sections between the production device and the waiting section.
(3) In the production instruction system of the above aspect, the information writing unit may be disposed on a conveyance path of the placement unit that connects the standby unit and the production device.
In this production instruction system, new specification information is overwritten in the information storage unit on the transport route connecting the production equipment and the standby unit, which improves the efficiency of parts production compared to a system in which no information writing unit is located on the transport route.
(4) In the production instruction system of the above form, the one or more production devices may include a plurality of production devices, the transport unit may be capable of transporting the placement unit between each of the plurality of production devices and the waiting unit, and the information writing unit may be located in the waiting unit.
According to this production instruction system, in an embodiment with multiple production machines, new specification information is overwritten in the information storage unit in the standby unit, which reduces the movement time of the placement unit compared to, for example, an embodiment in which the information writing unit is located near one production machine.

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a production instruction system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for managing the production of a plurality of parts according to the present embodiment. A diagram explaining a list. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a production instruction system according to a second embodiment. FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a production instruction system according to a third embodiment.

A. First embodiment:
A1. Configuration of the first embodiment:
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a production instruction system 1 according to this embodiment. The production instruction system 1 manages the production of multiple types of parts. In this embodiment, the multiple types of parts are three types of parts used in the production of vehicles, specifically, an engine compartment, a front floor, and a ladder. In this embodiment, the three types of parts include parts of the same type that are produced according to different specifications. The specifications will be described later. As shown in FIG. 1 , the production instruction system 1 includes a first placement unit 110, a second placement unit 120, a third placement unit 130, a production device 20, an information writing unit 30, a part removal unit 40, a transport unit 50, a standby unit 60, an information holding device 70, and a transport instruction unit 80.

Before describing the first placement unit 110, the second placement unit 120, and the third placement unit 130, we will explain the configuration common to the first placement unit 110, the second placement unit 120, and the third placement unit 130. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the first placement unit 110, the second placement unit 120, and the third placement unit 130, they will be referred to as the "placement unit 10." The placement unit 10 is used to produce one of multiple types of parts. In this embodiment, as described above, the placement unit 10 is used to produce one of three types of parts. Furthermore, parts produced by the production device 20 are placed in the placement unit 10. In this embodiment, parts of the same type but with different specifications are produced in the same placement unit 10. The placement unit 10 is arranged interchangeably on the production device 20. The specific method for placing the placement unit 10 on the production device 20 will be explained later.

The first placement unit 110 is used for producing engine compartments and places the produced engine compartments. The first placement unit 110 includes a first jig 111 and a first information storage unit 112. The first jig 111 assists in the production of engine compartments and secures the produced engine compartments. In this embodiment, the first information storage unit 112 is an RF tag. The first information storage unit 112 stores in advance identification information for the engine compartment, which is one of three types of parts. In this embodiment, the identification information stored in the first information storage unit 112 includes information on the type of part, the engine compartment, and information on one of the different specifications. In this embodiment, the specification information includes, for example, information such as the dimensions of the part of the engine compartment where the engine is mounted and the location of the washer tank. The specification information varies depending on the type of vehicle and the type of part. The first information storage unit 112 is configured to be able to overwrite the specification information with new specification information while it is still retaining the specification information.

The second placement unit 120 is used for the production of front floors and places the produced front floors. The second placement unit 120 is equipped with a second jig 121 and a second information storage unit 122. The second jig 121 assists in the production of the front floor and secures the produced front floor. The function and structure of the second information storage unit 122 are similar to those of the first information storage unit 112. The second information storage unit 122 stores in advance the identification information of the front floor, which is one of three types of parts. In this embodiment, the identification information stored by the second information storage unit 122 is information on the type of part, the front floor, and information on one of the different specifications.

The third placement unit 130 is used for producing ladders and places the produced ladders. The third placement unit 130 includes a third jig 131 and a third information storage unit 132. The third jig 131 assists in the production of ladders and secures the produced ladders. The function and structure of the third information storage unit 132 are similar to those of the first information storage unit 112. The third information storage unit 132 stores in advance identification information for the ladder, which is one of three types of parts. In this embodiment, the identification information stored in the third information storage unit 132 is information on the type of part, the ladder, and information on one of the different specifications. Hereinafter, when there is no need to distinguish between the first information storage unit 112, the second information storage unit 122, and the third information storage unit 132, they will be referred to as the "information storage unit IS."

The production device 20 can produce multiple types of parts. More specifically, the production device 20 can produce multiple types of parts, including parts of the same type produced with different specifications. In this embodiment, the production device 20 can produce the three types of parts described above. The production device 20 can communicate with the information writing unit 30, the information holding unit 70, and the transport instruction unit 80. The production device 20 holds production methods with different specifications for each type of part. The production device 20 acquires identification information held by the information holding unit IS provided in the placement unit 10 arranged in the production device 20, and produces a part on the placement unit 10 based on the type information and specification information of one part included in the identification information. The production device 20 includes a production unit 200, a first identification information acquisition unit 210, a second identification information acquisition unit 220, a production instruction display 230, a robot controller 240, a control panel 250, and a processing unit 260.

The production unit 200 has the function of assembling small parts (not shown) from the production device 20 to produce parts, and also serves as a location. Small parts are small components that make up a part. The small parts are pre-arranged in the production unit 200. The production unit 200 includes a robot 201 and a partition unit 202. The robot 201 assembles parts using the placement unit 10. The robot 201 has four arms 201a, and parts are assembled by the linked operation of each arm 201a. The partition unit 202 separates the production unit 200 from other areas. The robot 201 and the second identification information acquisition unit 220 are arranged inside the partition unit 202. The partition unit 202 has an entrance 202a and an exit 202b. The entrance 202a is the section through which the placement unit 10 enters the interior of the partition unit 202. The exit 202b is the part through which the placement unit 10 moves out of the partition unit 202.

Before describing the first identification information acquisition unit 210 and the second identification information acquisition unit 220, we will explain the configuration common to the first identification information acquisition unit 210 and the second identification information acquisition unit 220. The first identification information acquisition unit 210 and the second identification information acquisition unit 220 acquire identification information stored in the information storage unit IS of the placement unit 10 arranged in the production device 20. The first identification information acquisition unit 210 and the second identification information acquisition unit 220 in this embodiment differ in their locations and the timing at which they acquire identification information.

The first identification information acquisition unit 210 acquires identification information held by the information holding unit IS of the placement unit 10 before it is placed in the production unit 200. The first identification information acquisition unit 210 transmits the acquired identification information to the robot controller 240. The first identification information acquisition unit 210 is placed at the entrance 202a of the production unit 200. In this embodiment, the first identification information acquisition unit 210 is an RFID reader/writer.

The second identification information acquisition unit 220 acquires identification information held by the information holding unit IS of the placement unit 10 arranged in the production unit 200. The second identification information acquisition unit 220 transmits the acquired identification information to the robot controller 240. The second identification information acquisition unit 220 is arranged inside the partition unit 202. More specifically, the second identification information acquisition unit 220 is arranged in a position where it can read the identification information of the information holding unit IS when the placement unit 10 is arranged in the production unit 200. The second identification information acquisition unit 220, like the first identification information acquisition unit 210, is an RFID reader/writer.

The production instruction display 230 displays information regarding the production method for the parts corresponding to the identification information acquired by the first identification information acquisition unit 210 and the second identification information acquisition unit 220. In this embodiment, the production instruction display 230 is a monitor.

The robot controller 240 controls the operation of the robot 201 of the production device 20. The robot controller 240 controls the robot 201. The robot controller 240 holds instruction information for producing each type of part. In this embodiment, the instruction information includes information for producing each part with different specifications. For example, the instruction information includes information for the production device 20 to produce an engine compartment corresponding to a certain specification. The instruction information also includes information on small parts required for the production device 20 to produce the part, the part production process, and the method for arranging the produced parts in the placement unit 10. The robot controller 240 receives identification information from the first identification information acquisition unit 210 and the second identification information acquisition unit 220. The robot controller 240 controls the operation of the robot 201 based on instruction information corresponding to the type of part included in the identification information and the specification information. The control panel 250 drives and operates the production device 20, and controls abnormalities.

The processing unit 260 receives information on one component type included in the identification information from the information description unit 30. Upon receiving the information on one component type, the processing unit 260 transmits a request signal RS to the information holding device 70, which includes the information on one component type and is a signal requesting specification information according to the order in the list of one component type. The list will be explained later. The processing unit 260 receives the specification information from the information holding device 70 according to the order in the list, and transmits the specification information to the information description unit 30. In this embodiment, the processing unit 260 includes a processor (not shown).

The information description unit 30 can acquire identification information stored in the information storage unit IS and write specification information to the information storage unit IS. The information description unit 30 can also overwrite new specification information to the information storage unit IS. The information description unit 30 acquires identification information stored in the information storage unit IS of the placement unit 10 arranged in the production device 20. The information description unit 30 acquires information on the type of one component included in the identification information. The information description unit 30 transmits the acquired information on the type of one component to the processing unit 260, which then transmits it to the information storage device 70 via the processing unit 260. The information description unit 30 then receives new specification information from the information storage device 70 via the processing unit 260 in accordance with the order in the list. The information description unit 30 overwrites the information storage unit IS from which the information on the type of one component was acquired with the received new specification information. The information description unit 30 can also write specification information to an information storage unit IS that does not have any specification information stored therein. In this embodiment, the information writing unit 30 is located on the transport path TP of the placement unit 10, which connects the waiting unit 60 and the production device 20. The information writing unit 30 is located farther from the entrance 202a of the production unit 200 than the first identification information acquisition unit 210. In this embodiment, the information writing unit 30 is an RFID reader/writer, similar to the first identification information acquisition unit 210 and the second identification information acquisition unit 220.

The part removal unit 40 is capable of removing parts from the placement unit 10. In particular, the part removal unit 40 removes parts from the placement unit 10 when the placement unit 10 exits the exit 202b of the production device 20 and is placed in a predetermined location. The part removal unit 40 is located at a position closer to the exit 202b of the production device 20 than the entrance 202a, and outside the partition unit 202.

The conveying unit 50 is capable of transporting the placement unit 10 between the production device 20 and the standby unit 60. In this embodiment, the conveying unit 50 transports the placement unit 10 in response to instructions from the transport instruction unit 80. In this embodiment, the conveying unit 50 is connected to the information writing unit 30, the first identification information acquisition unit 210, the second identification information acquisition unit 220, the location in the production device 200 where the placement unit 10 should be located when parts are produced, the part removal unit 40, and the standby unit 60. In this specification, "connected" means that the information writing unit 30, the first identification information acquisition unit 210, the second identification information acquisition unit 220, the production device 200, the part removal unit 40, etc. are located in a location where they can perform their functions with respect to the placement unit 10. In this embodiment, the conveying unit 50 is a device that is equipped with the placement unit 10 and automatically moves between the standby unit 60 and the production device 20. Figure 1 shows a transport path TP, which is an example of the path along which the conveying unit 50 moves.

One transport unit 50 is provided for each of the first placement unit 110, second placement unit 120, and third placement unit 130. The transport unit 50 equipped with the first placement unit 110 will be referred to as the first transport unit 510, the transport unit 50 equipped with the second placement unit 120 will be referred to as the second transport unit 520, and the transport unit 50 equipped with the third placement unit 130 will be referred to as the third transport unit 530.

The standby unit 60 is a location where the placement unit 10 waits. As shown in FIG. 1, the standby unit 60 is installed in a location different from the production equipment 20. In this embodiment, the standby unit 60 is installed in a room where all components of the production instruction system 1 except the information retention device 70 are installed, and in a location different from the production equipment 20.

The information holding device 70 is a computer capable of providing various information, including specification information, to the processing unit 260 of the production device 20 via communications. In this embodiment, the information holding device 70 is a host computer. In this specification, the term "host computer" is a concept that includes a hardware device and an operating system, and refers to a hardware device that operates under the control of an operating system.

The information holding device 70 holds a list of predetermined production orders for multiple types of parts. In this embodiment, the information holding device 70 holds a list for each of three types of parts. Specifically, the information holding device 70 holds a list for the engine compartment, a list for the front door, and a list for the ladder. Each list indicates a predetermined production order for one of the three types of parts. In this embodiment, information on the specifications of the different placement units 10 for one part is listed, each numbered in order. Note that the list may include five consecutive items with the same specification, followed by five consecutive items with different specifications. The production order is determined in advance by the worker and input into the information holding device 70. The information holding device 70 then generates the list.

The information holding device 70 receives a request signal RS containing information about one part type from the processing unit 260 of the production device 20. Based on the information about one part type, the information holding device transmits new specification information to the information writing unit 30 via the processing unit 260, according to the order in the list. The order of the transmitted specification information is processed according to the order in the list. When the information holding device 70 next receives a request signal RS, the specification information next in the order in which it was transmitted is transmitted. In this embodiment, the information holding device 70 is located in a room separate from the room in which the components of the production instruction system 1 other than the information holding device 70 are located. For ease of understanding, the information holding device 70 is shown on the right side of the page in Figure 1.

The transport instruction unit 80 sends signals to the transport unit 50 instructing it to move or stop the placement unit 10. Signals instructing it to move or stop the placement unit 10 include, for example, a signal to move the placement unit 10 to a position where the information writing unit 30 can be connected and to stop it for a predetermined period of time, or a signal to the transport unit 50 that has stopped for the predetermined period of time to move the placement unit 10 to a position where the first identification information acquisition unit 210 can be connected and to stop it for a predetermined period of time. The transport instruction unit 80 is capable of sending and receiving signals to the processing unit 260 of the production device 20. The transport instruction unit 80 receives signals indicating the production status of parts from the production device 20, and issues instructions to the transport unit 50 to transport parts according to the production status.

A2. Method for managing the production of multiple parts using the production instruction system 1:
2 is a flowchart showing an example of a method for managing the production of a plurality of parts in this embodiment. It is assumed that, before the start of processing, the information storage unit IS of the placement unit 10 does not contain information about the next specification in the list stored in the information storage device 70. Also, before the start of processing, the first placement unit 110, the second placement unit 120, and the third placement unit 130 are stored in the waiting unit 60 shown in FIG. 1.

In step S10 shown in FIG. 2, the transport instruction unit 80 first transmits a signal to the first transport unit 510 to transport the first placement unit 110 to a position where it can connect with the information writing unit 30 and to stop for a predetermined period of time. This causes the first placement unit 110 to be transported to the information writing unit 30 by the first transport unit 510. The predetermined period of time can be set by the operator, such as 5 seconds or 10 seconds. In step S20, the information writing unit 30 acquires the identification information stored in the information storage unit IS of the transported first placement unit 110. The information storage unit 30 transmits information on the type of one component, contained in the identification information, to the information storage device 70 via the processing unit 260.

Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the list. In step S30 of Figure 2, as shown in Figure 3, the information holding device 70, which has received the request signal RS, selects new specification information for the next item in the list for one part type. The information holding device 70 transmits the new specification information for the next item in the list to the processing unit 260. The processing unit 260 then transmits the new specification information to the information writing unit 30. In step S40 of Figure 2, the information writing unit 30 overwrites the new specification information in the first information holding unit 112.

In step S50, the transport instruction unit 80 instructs the first transport unit 510 to transport the first placement unit 110 to a position where the first identification information acquisition unit 210 can connect. The first identification information acquisition unit 210 then acquires the identification information from the first information storage unit 112 of the first placement unit 110 and sends it to the robot controller 240. The robot controller 240, having received the identification information, sends a signal to the robot 201 in the production unit 200 to prepare for part production based on the identification information. Preparation for production refers to preparations for efficient part production, such as moving the arm 201a of the robot 201 to a predetermined position or moving small parts that have been pre-arranged in the production unit 200 close to the arm 201a.

In step S60, the transport instruction unit 80 sends a signal to the first transport unit 510 to move the first placement unit 110 to a position where the arm 201a can be connected and stop it. This places a placement unit 10 in the production device 20 that has an information storage unit IS that has been overwritten with new specification information. In step S70, the second identification information acquisition unit 220 acquires the identification information stored in the first information storage unit 112 of the first placement unit 110 placed in the production unit 200 and sends the identification information to the robot controller 240.

In step S80, the robot controller 240 sends a signal to the robot 201 to start producing the engine compartment. When the robot controller 240 receives the identification information from the second identification information acquisition unit 220 in step S70, it has received an instruction to start producing the part. The production device 20 produces the engine compartment, which is a part, on the first placement unit 110 based on the new specification information contained in the identification information. At this time, the first jig 111 provided in the first placement unit 110 is used to produce the engine compartment.

In step S90, the control panel 250 sends a signal to the processing unit 260 indicating that the work has been completed. The processing unit 260 then sends a signal indicating that the work has been completed to the transport instruction unit 80. The transport instruction unit 80 then sends a signal to the first transport unit 510 to move the first placement unit 110 to a position where it can connect with the component removal unit 40. In step S100, the component removal unit 40 removes a component from the first placement unit 110. The removed component is transported to another location by a device not shown.

In step S110, of the multiple types of parts, parts different from the parts produced in the processing up to step S100 are produced. In this embodiment, a front floor is produced by the production device 20. Similar to the processing in step S10 described above, the transport instruction unit 80 instructs the second transport unit 520 to transport the second placement unit 120 to a position where the information writing unit 30 can be connected. Thereafter, processing similar to the processing in steps S20 to S100 described above is executed, and a front floor is produced on the second placement unit 120. In step S120, of the multiple types of parts, parts different from the parts produced in the processing in step S110 are produced. In this embodiment, a ladder is produced on the third placement unit 130 by the production device 20.

In step S130, the processing unit 260 determines whether to end the process. The process ends when, for each type of part, production of the parts with the specifications in the order of the list entered into the processing unit 260 by the worker has been completed. In this embodiment, the processing unit 260 determines to end the process when production of the part with the tenth specification on the list has been completed for each of the three types of parts. If the processing unit 260 determines not to end the process, the process proceeds to step S10.

For example, if production of the engine compartment of the tenth specification by the production device 20 is completed, but production of the front floor and ladder of the tenth specification is not completed, the processing unit 260 will skip the engine compartment production process, and steps S110 to S130 will be repeatedly executed.

After the above process is completed, the engine compartment, front floor, ladder, and other parts produced in the above process are assembled in an assembly device (not shown) to produce a vehicle.

According to the production instruction system 1 of this embodiment, the information writing unit 30 receives new specification information corresponding to the order of the list held by the information holding device 70. The information writing unit 30 overwrites the information holding unit IS with the new specification information, and the production device 20 produces parts corresponding to the specifications written in the information holding unit IS on the placement unit 10, eliminating the need for workers to input new specification information into the production device 20. This reduces the burden on workers compared to a system in which workers input specification information into the production device 20 each time, and the production device 20 produces parts according to the input information.

Furthermore, if an operator wants the production device 20 to produce a specific type of part, the transport unit 50 can transport the placement unit 10 used to produce that type of part to the production device 20, and the placement unit 10 used to produce other types of parts can be placed on standby in the standby unit 60. This reduces the burden on the operator compared to when the operator transports the placement unit 10 to the production device 20.

In addition, by arranging the information writing unit 30 on the transport path TP, new specification information is overwritten in the information storage unit IS on the transport path TP connecting the production device 20 and the waiting unit 60. This improves the efficiency of part production compared to a configuration in which the information writing unit 30 is not arranged on the transport path TP.

B. Second embodiment:
The production instruction system 1B of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that there are multiple placement units used for producing engine compartments. The other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the same reference numerals are used and detailed descriptions are omitted.

Figure 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating a production instruction system 1B of the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 4, the production instruction system 1B of the second embodiment further includes a fourth placement unit 140 and a fourth conveyor unit 540 in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment. The fourth placement unit 140 has a configuration similar to that of the first placement unit 110. That is, the fourth placement unit 140 is used for producing engine compartments. The fourth placement unit 140 includes a fourth information storage unit 142. The configuration of the fourth information storage unit 142 is similar to that of the first information storage unit 112. The fourth conveyor unit 540 is capable of transporting the fourth placement unit 140 between the production device 20 and the standby unit 60. The fourth conveyor unit 540 has a configuration similar to that of the first conveyor unit 510.

In the second embodiment, the first placement unit 110, the second placement unit 120, the fourth placement unit 140, and the third placement unit 130 are placed on the production device 20 in this order, and parts are produced. Note that, for example, the first placement unit 110, the fourth placement unit 140, the second placement unit 120, and the third placement unit 130 may also be placed on the production device 20 in this order.

The second embodiment also produces the same effects as the first embodiment. In the second embodiment, the production instruction system 1B further includes multiple placement units 10 for producing engine compartments, which are one of the multiple types of parts. Because the information holding device 70 holds a list of specification orders, even in an embodiment where multiple placement units 10 exist for producing the same engine compartment, the engine compartments are produced in the order listed. Because the production instruction system 1B includes multiple placement units 10 for producing the same part, the efficiency of part production in the production instruction system 1B can be improved.

C. Third embodiment:
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a production instruction system 1C of the third embodiment. The production instruction system 1C of the third embodiment includes multiple production devices 20, 20C and multiple component pick-up units 40, 40C, and differs from the first embodiment in that the information description unit 30 is located in a different position than in the first embodiment. Since the other components are the same as those in the first embodiment, the same reference numerals are used and detailed descriptions are omitted. The production instruction system 1C of the third embodiment includes a first production device 20, a second production device 20C, a first component pick-up unit 40, and a second component pick-up unit 40C. The first production device 20 is the same as the production device 20 of the first embodiment. The configuration of the second production device 20C is the same as that of the first production device 20.

The first production device 20 and the second production device 20C each hold device identification information, which is information for identifying the first production device 20 and the second production device 20C. In this embodiment, the device identification information of the first production device 20 is ID1, and the device identification information of the second production device 20C is ID2. The request signal RS sent from the first production device 20 or the second production device 20C to the information holding device 70 includes the respective device identification information.

The information writing unit 30 is located in the waiting unit 60. The information writing unit 30 overwrites the new specification information in the information storage unit IS of the placement unit 10 before it is placed on the first production device 20 or the second production device 20C.

The configuration of the second component removal unit 40C is the same as the configuration of the first component removal unit 40. The first component removal unit 40 removes components from the placement unit 10 in which components produced by the first production device 20 are placed. The second component removal unit 40C removes components from the placement unit 10 in which components produced by the second production device 20C are placed.

The transport unit 50 is capable of transporting the placement unit 10 between the first production device 20, the second production device 20C, and the standby unit 60. For example, the transport unit 50 can transport the first placement unit 110 to the first production device 20, where it is used for the production of engine compartments and then returned to the standby unit 60, and then transport it to the second production device 20C.

In the third embodiment of the production instruction system 1C, in a configuration with multiple production devices 20, new specification information is overwritten in the information storage unit IS in the waiting unit 60. This reduces the movement time of the placement unit 10 compared to, for example, a configuration in which the information writing unit 30 is located close to one production device 20.

D. Other Embodiments D1. Other Embodiment 1:
(1) In the above embodiment, the multiple types of parts are three types of parts used in vehicle production, specifically an engine compartment, a front floor, and a ladder. However, for example, the multiple types of parts may be two or four types of parts used in vehicle production, or may be parts other than the engine compartment, the front floor, and the ladder. Furthermore, the multiple types of parts may be parts used in, for example, ship or aircraft production.

(2) In the first embodiment described above, the production instruction system 1 includes a first placement unit 110, a second placement unit 120, and a third placement unit 130, each of which is used to produce one of three types of parts. Note that, for example, in a mode in which the production instruction system produces two types of parts, the system may include two placement units as the multiple placement units. Furthermore, for example, in a mode in which the production system can produce five types of parts, the system may include two placement units used to produce each of the two types of parts.

(3) In the above embodiment, the production device 20 includes a first identification information acquisition unit 210 and a second identification information acquisition unit 220. Note that, for example, in a mode in which each component of the production device is not prepared, the production device does not need to include a first identification information acquisition unit. Furthermore, the first identification information acquisition unit and the second identification information acquisition unit are RFID readers/writers. Note that, for example, the first identification information acquisition unit and the second identification information acquisition unit may only have the function of acquiring information held by an RF tag.

(4) In the above embodiment, the information storage unit IS is an RF tag. The information storage unit IS may also be, for example, a QR code (registered trademark) or a barcode. In this embodiment, the identification information acquisition unit has the function of acquiring information stored in the QR code (registered trademark) or barcode.

(5) In the above embodiment, the information description unit 30 is an RFID reader/writer, similar to the first identification information acquisition unit 210 and the second identification information acquisition unit 220. Note that, for example, the first identification information acquisition unit and the second identification information acquisition unit may only have the function of acquiring information held by the RF tag, and the information description unit may be capable of acquiring and overwriting information.

(6) In the above embodiment, the information description unit 30 transmits information about one component type to the information holding device 70 via the processing unit 260, and receives new specification information via the processing unit 260. Note that, for example, the information description unit may transmit information about one component type directly to the information holding device, and receive new specification information directly from the information holding device.

(7) In the above embodiment, preparation for part production is performed in the processing of step S50 in FIG. 2. Note that the processing of step S50 may be omitted, for example, depending on the type of part or the work time.

(8) In the above embodiment, the production department 200 has the function of assembling small parts (not shown) of the production device 20 to produce parts, and also serves as a location.
Work other than assembling small parts, such as painting and machining, may be performed.

(9) In the first embodiment described above, parts are repeatedly transported to the production device 20 in the order of the first placement unit 110, the second placement unit 120, and the third placement unit 130, and the production of parts is repeatedly carried out in the order of the engine compartment, the front floor, and the ladder. Note that, for example, if a worker wants the production device to produce only the engine compartment and the ladder depending on the progress of production, the worker may input instructions to the processing unit in advance, so that only the first placement unit and the third placement unit are repeatedly transported to the production device.

(10) In the above embodiment, before processing begins, the information storage unit IS of the placement unit 10 does not contain information about the next specification in the list stored by the information storage device 70. Note that, for example, before processing begins, the information storage unit IS of the placement unit may only contain information about the type of part, and in step S30, specification information corresponding to number 1 on the list may be written to the information storage unit of the placement unit.

(11) In the above embodiment, the transport unit 50 transports the placement unit 10 in response to instructions from the transport instruction unit 80. Note that, for example, the transport unit may transport the placement unit in response to instructions from a processing unit of the production device.

(12) In the third embodiment described above, the production instruction system 1C was equipped with two production devices. Note that the production instruction system may be equipped with multiple production devices, such as three or five, as one or more production devices, and each of the multiple production devices may hold device identification information, which is information for identifying the respective production devices.

(13) Depending on the progress of work, multiple production machines may all produce the same part, or each production machine may produce a different part. For example, if an operator determines that engine compartment production should be expedited, the operator may input instructions to each production machine, causing all production machines to produce engine compartments in the order listed on the layout unit for producing engine compartments.

D2. Alternative embodiment 2:
(1) In the above embodiment, the production instruction system 1 includes the standby unit 60 and the transport unit 50. However, the production instruction system does not need to include a standby unit, for example, in a configuration in which the transport unit repeatedly transports the placement unit between the production device and the part removal unit without stopping. In this configuration, the placement unit may be transported to another location (not shown) by an operator after processing is completed.

(2) In the above embodiment, the transport unit 50 is a device that is equipped with the placement unit 10 and automatically moves between the standby unit 60 and the production device 20. Note that the transport unit may be, for example, a belt conveyor. Also, for example, in a configuration in which the placement unit is equipped with wheels, the transport unit may be a rail or a device that pulls the placement unit. Also, for example, in a configuration in which a worker transports the placement unit, the production instruction system may not be equipped with a transport unit.

D3. Alternative embodiment 3:
In the first embodiment, the information writing unit 30 is arranged on the transport path TP connecting the standby unit 60 and the first identification information acquisition unit 210. Note that, for example, the information writing unit may be arranged on the path connecting the standby unit and the component removal unit, or may not be arranged on the transport path of the placement unit connecting the standby unit and the production device.

D4. Alternative embodiment 4:
In the third embodiment, the information writing unit 30 is arranged in the standby unit 60. In an aspect in which the production instruction system includes a plurality of production apparatuses, the information writing unit may be arranged on a transport route connecting the standby unit and the first production apparatus. In this aspect, the placement unit including the information storage unit in which new specification information has been overwritten in the information writing unit may be transported to the second production apparatus.

This disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be realized in various configurations without departing from its spirit. For example, the technical features of the embodiments corresponding to the technical features in each aspect described in the Summary of the Invention section can be replaced or combined as appropriate to solve some or all of the above-described problems or achieve some or all of the above-described effects. Furthermore, if a technical feature is not described as essential in this specification, it can be deleted as appropriate.

1, 1B, 1C...production instruction system, 10...placement unit, 20...production equipment, first production equipment, 20C...second production equipment, 30...information writing unit, 40, 40C...part removal unit, 50...transport unit, 60...waiting unit, 70...information retention device, 80...transport instruction unit, 110...first placement unit, 111...first jig, 112...first information retention unit, 120...second placement unit, 121...second jig, 122...second information retention unit, 130...third placement unit, 131...third jig, 132...third information retention unit, 140... Fourth placement unit, 142...fourth information storage unit, 200...production unit, 201...robot, 201a...arm, 202...partition unit, 202a...entrance, 202b...exit, 210...first identification information acquisition unit, 220...second identification information acquisition unit, 230...production instruction display, 240...robot controller, 250...control panel, 260...processing unit, 510...first transport unit, 520...second transport unit, 530...third transport unit, 540...fourth transport unit, IS...information storage unit, RS...request signal, TP...transport path

Claims (4)

A production instruction system,
one or more production devices capable of producing a plurality of types of parts, including parts of the same type produced to different specifications;
A plurality of placement units, each of which:
used to produce one of the plurality of types of parts;
replaceably disposed on the production device,
a plurality of placement units, each including an information storage unit that stores information on the type of one of the components, the information storage unit being configured to be able to overwrite new specification information while the specification information is being stored;
an information writing unit capable of acquiring information stored in the information storage unit and overwriting the information of the new specification onto the information storage unit;
an information storage device that stores a list of a predetermined production order for the plurality of types of parts;
Equipped with
the information description unit acquires information on the type of the one part stored in the information storage unit of the placement unit arranged in the production device, and transmits the acquired information on the type of the one part to the information storage unit;
the information holding device transmits the new specification information to the information writing unit in accordance with the order of the list based on the received information on the type of the one part;
the information writing unit overwrites the received information of the new specification in the information holding unit that has acquired the information of the type of the one part;
The production device is provided with the placement unit having the information storage unit overwritten with information of the new specifications, and the part is produced on the placement unit based on the information of the new specifications. The production instruction system according to claim 1, further comprising:
a standby unit that is installed in a location different from the production device and where the plurality of placement units wait;
A production instruction system comprising: the production device; and a transport unit capable of transporting the placement unit between the production device and the standby unit. The production instruction system according to claim 2,
A production instruction system, wherein the information description unit is disposed on a transport path of the placement unit that connects the standby unit and the production device. The production instruction system according to claim 2,
The one or more production devices include a plurality of production devices,
the transport unit is capable of transporting the placement unit between each of the plurality of production devices and the standby unit,
A production instruction system, wherein the information entry unit is disposed in the waiting unit.