Patent Description:
A component mounting line disclosed in Patent Literature <NUM> includes a component mounter, a feeder storage, and an exchanging robot. The component mounter mounts a component supplied from a feeder on a board. The feeder storage stores the feeder detachable from the component mounter. The exchanging robot conveys the feeder, and exchanges the feeder between the feeder storage and the component mounter. As a result, in the component mounting line disclosed in Patent Literature <NUM>, it attempts to automate a supply operation of the feeder for supplying the feeder stored in the feeder storage to the component mounter.

<CIT> relates to component mounting and in particular, to optimization processing of a production job continued during the production, so as to provide an updated production job. A component mounter mounts components on a circuit board, and an automatic exchanging device supplies components by setting and removing component feeders. A board product is manufactured, based on the production job. The efficiency of the production job is displayed to an operator who checks performance and may set target values of production job progress.

<CIT> relates to factory automation and in particular, to system simulation using captured image data for a target workpiece and a model for the system. A simulator comprises a HDD drive storing a simulation program and a display unit. The simulator simulates a manufacturing system that includes multiple robots performing predetermined work on the workpiece placed on a conveyor moving the workpiece. A visual sensor captures image data of a section of the conveyor. Based on the image data and robot's status value, a control instruction of the robot is generated. Simulator has a visual sensor simulator and controller simulator, which generate time series data of changes of the workpiece or robot, after parameter settings of the system model and visual sensor. The time series data are reproduced on the display unit to visualize the simulation results.

<CIT> relates to mounting components in a component mounting line and in particular, to support of component replenishment to prevent a decrease in facility operation rate due to component shortage, in which a component shortage time of each part feeder is predicted.

In the component mounting line disclosed in Patent Literature <NUM>, the component mounter produces a board product while receiving the supply of the feeder by the exchanging robot. Therefore, it is demanded to grasp a temporal change of the operating status of the component mounter and a temporal change of the operating status of the exchanging robot.

In view of such a circumstance, the present description discloses a simulation device and a simulation method that can output a temporal change of an operating status of a board work machine and a temporal change of an operating status of an article moving device.

A simulation device includes a simulation section and an output section. Accordingly, the simulation device can output a temporal change of an operating status of a board work machine and a temporal change of an operating status of an article moving device. It is also possible to similarly apply the above description of the simulation device to the simulation method.

As shown in <FIG>, board production line <NUM> includes at least one (four in <FIG>) component mounter <NUM>, exchange system <NUM>, article moving device <NUM>, storage device <NUM>, and line control computer <NUM>. Four component mounters <NUM> are installed along a conveyance direction of board <NUM> shown in <FIG>. Component mounter <NUM> is included in board work machine WM that performs predetermined board work on board <NUM>. The board work by component mounter <NUM> includes a carrying-in operation and a carrying-out operation of board <NUM>, a pick-up operation and a mounting operation of a component, and the like. Component mounter <NUM> is detachably provided with, for example, cassette-type feeder <NUM>.

Storage device <NUM> used, for example, for storing feeder <NUM> is installed on a board carrying-in side (on a paper left side of <FIG>) of board production line <NUM>. In addition, board production line <NUM> is provided with exchange system <NUM> and article moving device <NUM>, and performs a replenishment operation, an exchange operation, and a collection operation of feeder <NUM>. It should be noted that a configuration of board production line <NUM> can be appropriately added or changed depending on, for example, a type of a board product to be produced. Specifically, for example, board work machine WM, such as a solder printing machine, an inspection machine, or a reflow furnace, can be appropriately installed in board production line <NUM>.

Each device constituting board production line <NUM> is configured to be able to input and output various data to and from line control computer <NUM> via a network. For example, storage device <NUM> includes multiple slots. Storage device <NUM> stores feeder <NUM> equipped in multiple slots. Feeder <NUM> equipped in the slot of storage device <NUM> is placed in a state capable of communicating with line control computer <NUM>. As a result, the slot of storage device <NUM> and an identification code of feeder <NUM> equipped in the slot are recorded in line control computer <NUM> in association with each other.

In addition, line control computer <NUM> monitors an operation status of board production line <NUM>, and integrally controls board work machine WM, such as component mounter <NUM>, exchange system <NUM>, article moving device <NUM>, and storage device <NUM>. Various data for controlling board work machine WM, exchange system <NUM>, article moving device <NUM>, and storage device <NUM> are stored in line control computer <NUM>. Line control computer <NUM> transmits various data, such as a control program, when, for example, component mounter <NUM> executes a mounting process of the component.

As shown in <FIG>, each of four component mounters <NUM> includes board conveyance device <NUM>, component supply device <NUM>, and head driving device <NUM>. In the following description, it is assumed that a horizontal width direction of component mounter <NUM>, which is the conveyance direction of board <NUM>, is an X-direction, a horizontal depth direction of component mounter <NUM> is a Y-direction, and a vertical direction (paper up-down direction of <FIG>) perpendicular to the X-direction and the Y-direction is a Z-direction.

Board conveyance device <NUM> is configured by, for example, a belt conveyor and a positioning device. Board conveyance device <NUM> sequentially conveys board <NUM> in the conveyance direction, and positions board <NUM> at a predetermined position in the device. Board conveyance device <NUM> carries board <NUM> out of component mounter <NUM> after the mounting process by component mounter <NUM> is terminated.

Component supply device <NUM> supplies component to be mounted on board <NUM>. Component supply device <NUM> includes first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM> that can be equipped with multiple feeders <NUM>. In the present embodiment, first slot <NUM> is disposed in an upper part of a front side of component mounter <NUM> to hold equipped feeder <NUM> in an operable manner. An operation of feeder <NUM> equipped in first slot <NUM> is controlled in the mounting process by component mounter <NUM> to supply the component in an extraction section provided at a defined position on an upper part of feeder <NUM>.

In the present embodiment, second slot <NUM> is disposed below first slot <NUM> to store equipped feeder <NUM>. That is, second slot <NUM> preliminarily holds feeder <NUM> used for production, or temporarily holds used feeder <NUM> used for production. It should be noted that the exchange operation of feeder <NUM> between first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM> is performed by article moving device <NUM>.

In addition, when feeder <NUM> is equipped in first slot <NUM> or second slot <NUM> of component supply device <NUM>, electric power is supplied from component mounter <NUM> via a connector. Moreover, feeder <NUM> is placed in a state capable of communicating with component mounter <NUM>. Feeder <NUM> equipped in first slot <NUM> controls a feeding operation of a carrier tape accommodating the component based on a control instruction or the like by component mounter <NUM>. As a result, feeder <NUM> supplies component in the extraction section provided in the upper part of feeder <NUM> so as to be able to be picked up by a holding member of mounting head <NUM>.

Head driving device <NUM> moves moving body <NUM> in the horizontal direction (X-direction and Y-direction) by a linear motion mechanism. Mounting head <NUM> is fixed to moving body <NUM> by a clamp member in an exchangeable (detachable) manner. Mounting head <NUM> is moved in the XY-directions integrally with moving body <NUM> by the linear motion mechanism of head driving device <NUM>. Mounting head <NUM> picks the component supplied by component supply device <NUM> up by the holding member. As the holding member, for example, a suction nozzle that picks the component up by supplied negative pressure air, a chuck that grips the component, or the like can be used.

Mounting head <NUM> holds the holding member so as to be movable in the Z-direction and to be rotatable around a Q-axis parallel to the Z-axis. Mounting head <NUM> adjusts a position and an angle of the holding member depending on a posture of the picked up component. Moreover, mounting head <NUM> mounts the component to a mounting position of board <NUM> as instructed by the control program. A total time of a time required for a predetermined number of cycles of a pick-and-place cycle of the component and a time required for carrying board <NUM> in and out is a cycle time per board <NUM>.

It should be noted that the holding member provided in mounting head <NUM> can be appropriately changed depending on a type of component in the mounting process of mounting the component on board <NUM>. Component mounter <NUM> attaches the suction nozzle accommodated in a nozzle station to mounting head <NUM>, for example, in a case in which the suction nozzle used in the mounting process to be executed is not attached to mounting head <NUM>. The nozzle station is detachably equipped in a predetermined position in component mounter <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, feeder <NUM> includes feeder main body <NUM> and driving device <NUM>. Feeder main body <NUM> of the present embodiment is formed in a flat box shape. Feeder main body <NUM> holds a reel on which the carrier tape accommodating a large number of components is wound in a detachable (exchangeable) manner. Driving device <NUM> includes a sprocket that engages a feeding hole provided in the carrier tape. Driving device <NUM> rotates the sprocket to feed and move the carrier tape.

An operation of driving device <NUM> of feeder <NUM> is controlled by a control device (not shown). When feeder <NUM> is equipped in first slot <NUM> of component mounter <NUM>, feeder <NUM> receives the electric power supplied from component mounter <NUM> via the connector. As a result, the control device of feeder <NUM> is placed in a state capable of communicating with component mounter <NUM>. It is also possible to similarly apply the above description of first slot <NUM> to second slot <NUM>. As a result, component mounter <NUM> can detect the replenishment and the collection of feeder <NUM> in first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, exchange system <NUM> includes first rail <NUM> and second rail <NUM>. First rail <NUM> and second rail <NUM> form a traveling path of article moving device <NUM>. First rail <NUM> is provided along an arrangement direction of four component mounters <NUM>, and is provided between first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM> in the up-down direction (Z-direction). Second rail <NUM> is provided along the arrangement direction of four component mounters <NUM>, and is provided below second slot <NUM> in the up-down direction (Z-direction). First rail <NUM> and second rail <NUM> extend over substantially the entire area in the conveyance direction of board <NUM> in board production line <NUM>.

Article moving device <NUM> is provided so as to be able to travel along the traveling path formed by first rail <NUM> and second rail <NUM>. Article moving device <NUM> receives the electric power supplied from a power transmission section by non-contact power supply, for example, via a power receiving section provided to face the power transmission section provided in first rail <NUM>. The electric power received by the power receiving section is used for traveling of article moving device <NUM>, a predetermined operation, or the like via a power receiving circuit. It should be noted that article moving device <NUM> detects, for example, a position (current position) on the traveling path by a position detection device. As the position detection device, for example, an optical detection method, a detection method using electromagnetic induction, or the like can be applied.

The "predetermined operation" includes an exchange operation for exchanging device DD0 detachably provided in board work machine WM, such as component mounter <NUM>, with board work machine WM. In the present embodiment, article moving device <NUM> uses feeder <NUM> that supplies the component to be mounted on board <NUM> as device DD0, and performs the exchange operation of feeder <NUM> between component mounter <NUM>, which is board work machine WM, and storage device <NUM>.

In the present embodiment, article moving device <NUM> conveys feeder <NUM> from storage device <NUM> to first slot <NUM> or second slot <NUM> of component mounter <NUM>, and performs the replenishment operation of feeder <NUM>. In addition, article moving device <NUM> performs the exchange operation of feeder <NUM> between first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM> of component mounter <NUM>. Further, article moving device <NUM> conveys feeder <NUM>, which is no longer needed, from component mounter <NUM> to storage device <NUM>, and performs the collection operation of feeder <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, article moving device <NUM> includes at least one (two in <FIG>) holding section <NUM> and control device <NUM>. In the present embodiment, each of two holding sections <NUM> can simultaneously clamp multiple (two in <FIG>) feeders <NUM>, and can simultaneously hold multiple (two) feeders <NUM>. In addition, each of two holding sections <NUM> is independently movable along an attachment/detachment direction (Y-direction in the present embodiment) of feeder <NUM> by, for example, the linear motion mechanism or the like, and can simultaneously move multiple (two) feeders <NUM> along the Y-direction.

Further, two holding sections <NUM> are integrally movable in the up-down direction (Z-direction) by, for example, the linear motion mechanism or the like, and can simultaneously move multiple (four) feeders <NUM> in the Z-direction. It should be noted that article moving device <NUM> can, for example, multiple (four) holding sections <NUM>. In this case, each of multiple (four) holding sections <NUM> clamps one feeder <NUM>, so that multiple (four) feeders <NUM> can be moved independently in the Y-direction and the Z-direction. In addition, a form of holding section <NUM> is not limited to the clamp mechanism and the linear motion mechanism, and can have various forms. For example, holding section <NUM> can include a protruding portion that can be fitted into a hole portion provided in feeder <NUM>. In this case, feeder <NUM> is held by fitting the protruding portion of holding section <NUM> into the hole portion of feeder <NUM>.

Control device <NUM> includes a well-known computing device and a memory device, in which a control circuit is configured (all not shown). Control device <NUM> is connected to four component mounters <NUM>, exchange system <NUM>, storage device <NUM>, and line control computer <NUM> in a communicable manner. Control device <NUM> controls the traveling of article moving device <NUM>, the operations of two holding sections <NUM>, and the like. With the configuration described above, article moving device <NUM> can be moved to a predetermined position along first rail <NUM> and second rail <NUM>, and can perform the exchange operation of feeder <NUM> at a stopping position.

In board production line <NUM>, component mounter <NUM> produces the board product while receiving the supply of feeder <NUM> by article moving device <NUM>. Therefore, it is demanded to grasp the temporal change of the operating status of component mounter <NUM> and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>. Accordingly, in the present embodiment, simulation device <NUM> is provided.

Simulation device <NUM> can be provided in various electronic computers, control devices, and the like. As shown in <FIG>, simulation device <NUM> according to the present embodiment is provided in electronic computer <NUM>. Electronic computer <NUM> includes a well-known computing device, a memory device, an input device, and an output device. Simulation device <NUM> can be formed, for example, on line control computer <NUM>, a host computer that manages multiple board production lines <NUM>, a cloud, or the like.

In addition, as shown in <FIG>, simulation device <NUM> includes simulation section <NUM> and output section <NUM> when viewed as control blocks. Simulation device <NUM> further includes display section <NUM>. In the present invention, simulation device <NUM> includes simulation section <NUM>, output section <NUM>, and display section <NUM>. In addition, simulation device <NUM> executes computing processing according to the flowchart shown in <FIG>. Simulation section <NUM> performs the processing and determination shown in steps S11 to S16. Output section <NUM> performs the processing shown in step S17. Display section <NUM> performs the processing shown in step S18.

Simulation section <NUM> simulates an operating status of board work machine WM that performs predetermined board work on board <NUM> to produce the board product, and an operating status of article moving device <NUM> that supplies article AR0 needed for the production of the board product to board work machine WM, based on the production plan of the board product (steps S11 to S16 shown in <FIG>).

As shown in <FIG>, board production line <NUM> according to the present embodiment includes board work machine WM including component mounter <NUM>, article moving device <NUM>, and storage device <NUM>. Storage device <NUM> can store, in addition to feeder <NUM>, article AR0 needed for the production of the board product by board work machine WM. For example, device DD0 detachably provided in board work machine WM is included in article AR0.

In a case in which board work machine WM is component mounter <NUM>, for example, feeder <NUM>, the reel or a component tray that accommodates multiple components, mounting head <NUM>, the holding member (suction nozzle, chuck, or the like), the nozzle station, and the like are included in device DD0. In a case in which board work machine WM is a solder printing machine that prints solder on board <NUM>, for example, a solder cup, a mask, a squeegee, a dispense head, and the like are included in device DD0. In a case in which board work machine WM is an inspection machine, for example, an inspection head and the like are included in device DD0. The inspection machine includes a solder inspection machine that inspects solder printed on board <NUM>, an appearance inspection machine that inspects a component mounted on board <NUM>, and the like.

Similarly, article moving device <NUM> can supply, in addition to feeder <NUM>, article AR0 stored in storage device <NUM> to board work machine WM, and collect article AR0, which is no longer needed in board work machine WM, in storage device <NUM>. In addition, in the present embodiment, component mounter <NUM> that is board work machine WM includes first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM>. Another board work machine WM can also include first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM>, and article AR0 to be held is not limited to feeder <NUM>.

That is, board work machine WM can include first slot <NUM> that holds article AR0 needed for the production of the board product in an exchangeable manner, and second slot <NUM> that can preliminarily hold article AR0 or can temporarily hold article AR0 to be collected. Article moving device <NUM> can perform the exchange operation of article AR0 between first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM>.

In addition, as shown in <FIG>, line control computer <NUM> includes memory device 6DS. As memory device 6DS, for example, a magnetic memory device such as a hard disk device, a memory device using a semiconductor element, such as a flash memory, or the like can be used. Memory device 6DS stores a production plan of the board product.

Simulation section <NUM> can acquire the production plan from management device LC0 that manages the production plan, and can perform the simulation based on the acquired production plan. In the present embodiment, line control computer <NUM> corresponds to management device LC0. As a result, simulation section <NUM> can easily set the production plan included in a simulation condition.

In addition, simulation section <NUM> can also cause an operator to input the production plan, and perform the simulation based on the production plan input by the operator. In this case, the operator can individually set the production plan included in the simulation condition, and also can easily change the simulation condition. It should be noted that simulation section <NUM> may acquire the production plan from management device LC0, cause the operator to change a part of the acquired production plan, and may set the simulation condition including the production plan.

In any case, the production plan of the board product includes at least a type and a production scheduled number of the board products, and a type and a needed number of articles AR0. Board work machine WM produces the board product while receiving the supply of article AR0 by article moving device <NUM>. Accordingly, in order for simulation section <NUM> to simulate the operating status of board work machine WM and the operating status of article moving device <NUM>, at least information described above is needed as the simulation condition.

In addition, for example, board production line <NUM> shown in <FIG> includes four component mounters <NUM>. Since board <NUM> is sequentially conveyed to four component mounters <NUM>, the production time of the board product by component mounter <NUM> is affected by component mounter <NUM> having the longest production time among four component mounters <NUM>. Similarly, the production time of the board product is affected by a solder printing machine, a solder inspection machine, or the like on the upstream side. In addition, the production time of the board product is affected by a reflow furnace, an appearance inspection machine, or the like on the downstream side. Accordingly, the simulation condition may include the production required time of board work machine WM that becomes a bottleneck. For example, in a case in which board work machine WM is component mounter <NUM>, the production required time can be represented by using a cycle time.

Further, for example, production stop time of component mounter <NUM> occurring by the changeover differs between a case in which the changeover is started after the production of all four component mounters <NUM> is stopped and a case in which the changeover is started from component mounter <NUM> on which the changeover is enabled. Accordingly, the simulation condition may include a method of changeover of board work machine WM. It should be noted that the changeover is performed, for example, when the production plan of the board product is switched, a configuration of each device of board work machine WM (including article AR0) is changed as needed, and a control program for driving and controlling board work machine WM is changed as needed.

In addition, for example, there is a case in which the notice of the supply of article AR0 is given before article AR0 is needed for the production of the board product, and article AR0 can be preliminarily held in second slot <NUM> of board work machine WM. In this case, there is a possibility that the type and the number of article AR0 that can be prepared in second slot <NUM> in advance are changed and the operating status of board work machine WM and the operating status of article moving device <NUM> are changed due to a time difference between the scheduled time during which article AR0 is needed for the production of the board product and the notice time during which the notice of the supply of article AR0 is given. Accordingly, the simulation condition may include the notice time during which the notice of the supply of article AR0 is given.

It is also possible to similarly apply the above description to the shortage of the supply supplied from article AR0. For example, in a case in which article AR0 is feeder <NUM>, a component accommodated in a carrier tape wound on a reel corresponds to the supply. In this case, the simulation condition may include the notice time during which the notice of the shortage of the component supplied from feeder <NUM> is given. It is also possible to similarly apply the above description to a case in which article AR0 is a component tray, a nozzle station, a solder cup, or the like, for example.

In addition, the scheduled time needed for the production of the board product by article AR0 to be supplied is changed depending on an initial value of the remaining number of the supplies supplied from article AR0. Accordingly, the simulation condition may include the initial value of the remaining number of the supplies supplied from article AR0. It should be noted that in a case in which article AR0 is feeder <NUM> and the supply is the component, the initial value of the remaining number of the supplies can be set, for example, for each tape width of the carrier tape. As the tape width is increased, the size of the accommodated component is increased, so that the number of accommodated components tends to be decreased.

In addition, for example, there is a possibility that an order of use, the frequency of use, and the like of device DD0 are changed depending on the initial disposition of device DD0 detachably provided in board work machine WM in first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM>. Accordingly, the simulation condition may include the initial disposition of device DD0 detachably provided in board work machine WM in first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM>. By including at least one of the matters described above in the simulation condition, simulation section <NUM> can perform the simulation close to the actual operating status of board work machine WM and the operating status of article moving device <NUM>.

Simulation section <NUM> simulates the operating status of board work machine WM and the operating status of article moving device <NUM> based on the simulation condition including the production plan of the board product. First, simulation section <NUM> performs initial setting of the simulation (step S11 shown in <FIG>). The initial setting includes the setting of the simulation condition described above, the supply plan of article AR0 and the supply plan of the supplies supplied from article AR0, the creation of the collection plan of article AR0, which is no longer needed, and the like.

In the present embodiment, simulation section <NUM> creates the supply plan of feeder <NUM> that is article AR0, the supply plan of the component supplied from feeder <NUM>, and the collection plan of feeder <NUM>, which is no longer needed. The supply plan of the component includes feeder <NUM> that supplies the component, a holding member that picks the component up, a mounting position on board <NUM> on which the component is mounted, an order of supplying the component (order of mounting the component on board <NUM>), the supply number of the component, and the like. The supply plan of the component is optimized such that the cycle time is optimized based on the production plan of the board product. A method of optimization is not limited, and a well-known method can be used.

The supply plan or the collection plan of feeder <NUM> includes component mounter <NUM> that performs the supply or the collection, a position in first slot <NUM> or second slot <NUM>, the timing and the order of supplying or collecting feeder <NUM>, the number of feeders <NUM>, and the like. The supply plan or the collection plan of feeder <NUM> is optimized such that, for example, the number of feeders <NUM> to be supplied or collected at once, the movement amount of article moving device <NUM>, the number of movements, and the like are optimized. A method of optimization is not limited, and a well-known method can be used.

Next, simulation section <NUM> sequentially executes the supply plan of article AR0, the supply plan of the supply, and the collection plan of article AR0, and stores the execution time needed to execute these plans in the memory device of electronic computer <NUM> (step S12). In the present embodiment, simulation section <NUM> calculates the required time (operating time of component mounter <NUM>) each time the component is supplied by component mounter <NUM> and the component is mounted on board <NUM>, and stores the calculated required time in the memory device. In the present description, the time zone in which board work machine WM is operated is referred to as first operating time zone TD1.

Simulation section <NUM> calculates the required time (operating time of article moving device <NUM>) each time the supply operation, the exchange operation, the collection operation, or the like of feeder <NUM> is performed, and stores the calculated required time in the memory device. Similarly, simulation section <NUM> calculates the time during which article moving device <NUM> is stopped (time during which article moving device <NUM> waits without performing the operation described above), and stores the calculated time in the memory device. In the present description, the time zone in which article moving device <NUM> is operated is referred to as second operating time zone TD2. The time zone in which article moving device <NUM> is stopped is referred to as second stop time zone TN2.

In addition, simulation section <NUM> calculates the remaining number of the supplies supplied from article AR0, and stores the remaining number of supplies in the memory device (step S13). In the present embodiment, each time the component is supplied from feeder <NUM>, the remaining number of the components is reduced and stored in the memory device. When the remaining number of the components is zero, the shortage of the component to be supplied occurs.

Further, simulation section <NUM> determines whether a production stop of the board product has occurred (step S14). In the present embodiment, simulation section <NUM> can determine that the production stop of the board product by component mounter <NUM> has occurred in a case in which feeder <NUM> needed for the production of the board product is not equipped in first slot <NUM> (occurrence of the changeover). In addition, simulation section <NUM> can determine that the production stop of the board product by component mounter <NUM> has occurred in a case in which the remaining number of the components supplied from feeder <NUM> equipped in first slot <NUM> is zero (shortage of the component or shortage of feeder <NUM>).

When the production stop of the board product has occurred (Yes in step S14), simulation section <NUM> calculates the production stop time of board work machine WM, and stores the production stop time in the memory device (step S15). In the present description, the time zone in which board work machine WM is stopped (time zone in which board work machine WM waits without performing the board work) is referred to as first stop time zone TN1. In a case in which the production of the board product continues (No in step S14), simulation section <NUM> does not execute the processing shown in step S15. Next, simulation section <NUM> determines whether all the supplies (components) included in the supply plan have been supplied (step S16).

In a case in which all the supplies (components) included in the supply plan are supplied (Yes in step S16), output section <NUM> outputs time series information indicating the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM> (step S17). In addition, display section <NUM> causes display device 7DP to display the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM> in a timeline and three-dimensionally (step S18).

In a case in which all the supplies (components) included in the supply plan have not been supplied (No in step S16), the control returns to the processing shown in step S12, and the processing and determination shown in steps S12 to S16 are repeated until all the supplies (components) included in the supply plan are supplied. In addition, in the simulation, simulation section <NUM> acquires the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>.

Output section <NUM> outputs the time series information indicating the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>, which are results of simulation by simulation section <NUM> (step S17 shown in <FIG>).

Output section <NUM> can output various time series information based on the results of simulation by simulation section <NUM>. For example, in a case in which board work machine WM is component mounter <NUM>, output section <NUM> can output the time series information indicating the temporal change of the operating status of each device of board conveyance device <NUM>, component supply device <NUM>, and head driving device <NUM> shown in <FIG> (including device DD0 detachably provided in component mounter <NUM>).

For example, the operation and the state of component supply device <NUM> when a predetermined component (supply) is supplied from predetermined feeder <NUM> equipped at a predetermined position in first slot <NUM> of component supply device <NUM>, as well as the change thereof, are included in the temporal change of the operating status of component mounter <NUM>. The operation and state of head driving device <NUM> when the component is picked up and held by a predetermined holding member of predetermined mounting head <NUM> and the component is mounted on a predetermined mounting position of board <NUM>, as well as the change thereof, are included in the temporal change of the operating status of component mounter <NUM>.

Similarly, output section <NUM> can output the time series information indicating the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>. For example, the operation and state of article moving device <NUM> when predetermined feeder <NUM> equipped at a predetermined position in a slot of storage device <NUM> is conveyed to predetermined component mounter <NUM> and carried into a predetermined position in a predetermined slot of component mounter <NUM>, as well as the change thereof, are included in the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>. As described above, the slot of component mounter <NUM> includes first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM>.

In addition, the operation and state of article moving device <NUM> when feeder <NUM> equipped in first slot <NUM> and feeder <NUM> equipped in second slot <NUM> are exchanged with each other, as well as the change thereof, are included in the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>. Further, the operation and state of article moving device <NUM> when feeder <NUM>, which is no longer needed in component mounter <NUM>, is collected from component mounter <NUM> to storage device <NUM>, as well as the change thereof, are included in the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>. In any case, the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM> includes the operation and the state of holding section <NUM> when holding section <NUM> shown in <FIG> carries feeder <NUM> in or out, as well as the change thereof.

<FIG> shows an example of a result of output by output section <NUM>. <FIG> schematically shows supply information and mounting information of the component for each predetermined time (for example, step time of simulation), as well as supply information, exchange information, and collection information of feeder <NUM>. The supply information of the component is a set of the time series information indicating the temporal change of each operation and each state of component supply device <NUM>. The mounting information of the component is a set of the time series information indicating the temporal change of each operation and each state of head driving device <NUM>. The supply information, the exchange information, and the collection information of feeder <NUM> are a set of the time series information indicating the temporal change of each operation and each state of article moving device <NUM> including the operation and the state of holding section <NUM>.

Specifically, at time T11, the supply information of the component is indicated by information D11, and the mounting information of the component is indicated by information D21. In addition, at time T11, the supply information of feeder <NUM> is indicated by information D31, the exchange information is indicated by information D41, and the collection information is indicated by information D51. Similarly, at time T12, the supply information of the component is indicated by information D12, and the mounting information of the component is indicated by information D22. In addition, at time T12, the supply information of feeder <NUM> is indicated by information D32, the exchange information is indicated by information D42, and the collection information is indicated by information D52.

The time series information output by output section <NUM> can be used in various methods. For example, the time series information output by output section <NUM> can be graphed by well-known spreadsheet software or the like. As a result, a user of simulation device <NUM> can easily compare the temporal change of the operating status of desired board work machine WM with the temporal change of the operating status of desired article moving device <NUM>.

Based on the time series information output by output section <NUM>, display section <NUM> causes display device 7DP to display first operating time zone TD1 and first stop time zone TN1 with second operating time zone TD2 and second stop time zone TN2 in a timeline in a comparative manner (step S18 shown in <FIG>).

<FIG> shows an example of a result of display by display section <NUM>. First display region DA1 indicates a region in which display device 7DP displays the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM> in a timeline. Second display region DA2 indicates a region in which display device 7DP displays an operating ratio or the like of article moving device <NUM>. Third display region DA3 shows a region in which display device 7DP three-dimensionally displays the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>. Fourth display region DA4 shows a region in which display device 7DP displays the operation state or the like of article moving device <NUM>.

<FIG> shows a display example of first display region DA1. First display region DA1 includes upper stage region TL1 indicating the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>), lower stage region TL2 indicating the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>, and middle stage region TL3 indicating production time zone TP0. In addition, in first display region DA1, timeline bar TB0 is moved depending on the time elapse from reference time T0 of the simulation. In <FIG>, timeline bar TB0 indicates time T1, whereas the states at time T1 are shown in second display region DA2 to fourth display region DA4 shown in <FIG>.

In upper stage region TL1, first operating time zone TD1 and first stop time zone TN1 are displayed to be distinguishable from each other. In <FIG>, first operating time zone TD1 is indicated by the same color as the drawing, and first operating time zone TD1 is indicated by a broken line for convenience of illustration. Display device 7DP can display, for example, first operating time zone TD1 in a transparent manner. First stop time zone TN1 is displayed in a different color from first operating time zone TD1. Display device 7DP can display, for example, first stop time zone TN1 in red.

In addition, in the present description, a time zone in first operating time zone TD1, in which the scheduled production plan is changed due to the shortage of article AR0 in board work machine WM, and board work machine WM performs the board work based on the changed production plan is referred to as recovery production time zone TP1. As described above, the production plan is managed by management device LC0. For example, when a part of article AR0 needed in board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) is insufficient, board work machine WM cannot execute the board work based on the scheduled production plan. However, board work machine WM may be capable of performing a preceding operation of performing the board work by using only existing article AR0. In this case, management device LC0 can change the production plan such that board work machine WM executes the preceding operation. The time zone in which board work machine WM performs the preceding operation is included in recovery production time zone TP1.

In addition, when the shortage of article AR0 is supplied to board work machine WM, board work machine WM can perform a subsequent operation of performing the board work by using supplied article AR0. In this case, management device LC0 can change the production plan such that board work machine WM executes the subsequent operation after the preceding operation is completed or together with the preceding operation. The time zone in which board work machine WM performs the subsequent operation is included in recovery production time zone TP1. It should be noted that the subsequent operation can be performed in board work machine WM in which the shortage of article AR0 has occurred, or can be performed in board work machine WM at a later stage (on the downstream side) from board work machine WM.

Since there is possibility that the production plan changed in this manner causes a decrease in the production efficiency as compared with the scheduled production plan, it is preferable that recovery production time zone TP1 can be distinguished from other operating time zones of board work machine WM. Accordingly, display section <NUM> of the present embodiment displays recovery production time zone TP1 to be distinguishable from other operating time zones of board work machine WM. It should be noted that display section <NUM> can display only the time zone, in recovery production time zone TP1, in which board work machine WM performs the preceding operation to be distinguishable from other operating time zones of board work machine WM.

Recovery production time zone TP1 is displayed in a different color from first operating time zone TD1 excluding recovery production time zone TP1. Display device 7DP can display, for example, recovery production time zone TP1 in yellow. As a result, the user of simulation device <NUM> can visually recognize a relationship between recovery production time zone TP1 and the operating status of article moving device <NUM>. It should be noted that, in <FIG>, for convenience of illustration, recovery production time zone TP1 is denoted by a symbol for a part of the time zone. In upper stage region TL1, a time zone which is not denoted by a symbol indicated by a solid-line square indicates recovery production time zone TP1.

In lower stage region TL2, second operating time zone TD2 and second stop time zone TN2 are displayed to be distinguishable from each other. In <FIG>, second stop time zone TN2 is shown in the same color as the drawing, and second stop time zone TN2 is shown by a broken line for convenience of illustration. Display device 7DP can display, for example, second stop time zone TN2 in a transparent manner. Second operating time zone TD2 is displayed in a different color from second stop time zone TN2.

Display section <NUM> can display first supply time zone TS1 to be distinguishable from other operating time zones of article moving device <NUM>. First supply time zone TS1 refers to a time zone, in second operating time zone TD2, in which article moving device <NUM> is operated to supply article AR0, which is needed due to the shortage of article AR0 or the changeover in board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>).

In <FIG>, in first supply time zone TS1, replenishment time zone TS11 and changeover time zone TS12 are displayed to be distinguishable from each other. Replenishment time zone TS11 refers to a time zone, in second operating time zone TD2, in which article moving device <NUM> is operated to supply article AR0, which is needed due to the shortage of article AR0 in board work machine WM. Changeover time zone TS12 refers to a time zone, in second operating time zone TD2, in which article moving device <NUM> is operated to supply article AR0, which is needed due to the changeover in board work machine WM.

Display device 7DP can display, for example, replenishment time zone TS11 in yellow, and display changeover time zone TS12 in red. It should be noted that, in <FIG>, for convenience of illustration, replenishment time zone TS11 is denoted by a symbol for a part of the time zone. In lower stage region TL2, a time zone which is not denoted by a symbol indicated by a solid-line square indicates replenishment time zone TS11 except time zone TZ1. In time zone TZ1, second supply time zone TS2 and replenishment time zone TS11, which will be described below, are alternately repeated.

As a result, the user of simulation device <NUM> can visually recognize a relationship between first supply time zone TS1 and the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>). For example, the user of simulation device <NUM> can recognize that recovery production time zone TP1 often occurs immediately after replenishment time zone TS11. In addition, the user of simulation device <NUM> can recognize that first stop time zone TN1 in which board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) is stopped has occurred immediately before or immediately after changeover time zone TS12. It should be noted that when the notice of the supply of article AR0 is given before article AR0 is needed for the production of the board product, display section <NUM> can display a time zone, in second operating time zone TD2, in which article moving device <NUM> is operated to supply article AR0 to be distinguishable from other operating time zones.

Display section <NUM> can display second supply time zone TS2 to be distinguishable from other operating time zones of article moving device <NUM>. Second supply time zone TS2 refers to a time zone, in second operating time zone TD2, in which article moving device <NUM> is operated to preliminarily supply article AR0 to board work machine WM. Display device 7DP can display, for example, second supply time zone TS2 in blue.

As a result, the user of simulation device <NUM> can visually recognize a relationship between second supply time zone TS2 and the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>). It should be noted that display section <NUM> can also display a time zone in which article moving device <NUM> is operated to preliminarily supply article AR0 to be used in the next production plan, and a time zone in which article moving device <NUM> is operated to preliminarily supply article AR0 to be used in a subsequent production plan to be distinguishable from each other.

Display section <NUM> can display collection time zone TS3 to be distinguishable from other operating time zones of article moving device <NUM>. Collection time zone TS3 refers to a time zone, in second operating time zone TD2, in which article moving device <NUM> is operated to collect article AR0, which is no longer needed in board work machine WM. It should be noted that collection time zone TS3 does not include a time zone in which both the supply and the collection of article AR0 are performed. Display device 7DP can display, for example, collection time zone TS3 in gray. As a result, the user of simulation device <NUM> can visually recognize a relationship between collection time zone TS3 and the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>).

In the present embodiment, display section <NUM> causes display device 7DP to display first operating time zone TD1 and first stop time zone TN1, and second operating time zone TD2 and second stop time zone TN2 in a timeline in a comparative manner, based on the time series information output by output section <NUM>. As a result, the user of simulation device <NUM> can visually recognize a relationship between the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM (first operating time zone TD1 and first stop time zone TN1) and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM> (second operating time zone TD2 and second stop time zone TN2).

For example, as the number of times that first stop time zone TN1 in which board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) is stopped occurs is larger and second operating time zone TD2 in which article moving device <NUM> is operated is longer (operating ratio of article moving device <NUM> is higher), the possibility that the supply lash of article AR0 by article moving device <NUM> has occurred is higher. In addition, as the number of times that first stop time zone TN1 in which board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) is stopped occurs is larger and second operating time zone TD2 in which article moving device <NUM> is operated is shorter (operating ratio of article moving device <NUM> is lower), the possibility that the state in which article moving device <NUM> cannot supply article AR0 has occurred is higher.

The replenishment of article AR0 to storage device <NUM> is performed by a worker or an unmanned conveyance vehicle (automatic guided vehicle). In addition, article AR0 used in the production plan at the present time (time T1 shown in <FIG>) has a higher priority of supply than article AR0 used in the subsequent production plan. Accordingly, as the state in which article moving device <NUM> cannot supply article AR0, for example, a case in which article AR0 needed for board work machine WM is not stored in storage device <NUM>, a case in which the priority of supply is low and article AR0 cannot be supplied to second slot <NUM> in advance for the convenience of the production plan are assumed. As described above, the user of simulation device <NUM> can easily compare the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM with the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>, and can analyze the problems relating to the supply and the collection of article AR0 by article moving device <NUM>.

In addition, display section <NUM> can display production time zone TP0 from the start of production to the termination of production of the board product in a timeline for each production plan. For example, in middle stage region TL3 shown in <FIG>, production time zone TP0 is displayed for each production plan. Display device 7DP can display, for example, production time zone TP0 in blue. As a result, the user of simulation device <NUM> can visually recognize a relationship among the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM (first operating time zone TD1 and first stop time zone TN1), the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM> (second operating time zone TD2 and second stop time zone TN2), and production time zone TP0.

For example, the user of simulation device <NUM> can recognize that changeover time zone TS12 often occurs in a time zone between production time zone TP0 according to one production plan and production time zone TP0 according to the next production plan. In addition, the user of simulation device <NUM> can recognize that collection time zone TS3 has occurred in a case in which changeover time zone TS12 does not occur in the time zone described above.

It should be noted that display device 7DP can display the operating ratio or the like of article moving device <NUM> in second display region DA2 shown in <FIG>. Display section <NUM> can cause display device 7DP to display time TM1, time TM2, and operating ratio LR1 based on the results of simulation by simulation section <NUM>. Time TM1 represents the entire time (integration time) of the simulation. Time TM2 represents an operating time of article moving device <NUM> (integration time of second operating time zone TD2). Operating ratio LR1 represents the operating ratio of article moving device <NUM>, and is calculated by dividing time TM2 by time TM1.

In addition, display section <NUM> displays board production line <NUM> in which board work machine WM and article moving device <NUM> are provided in a virtual space by a simulation, and sterically display the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM> depending on the time elapse of the timeline (step S18 shown in <FIG>). For example, display device 7DP can display the temporal changes in third display region DA3 shown in <FIG>.

In <FIG>, the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) and the operating status of article moving device <NUM> at time T1 (see <FIG>) indicated by timeline bar TB0 are sterically displayed (three-dimensionally displayed). Depending on the time elapse of the timeline, the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) is temporally changed, and the operating status of article moving device <NUM> is temporally changed. As a result, the user of simulation device <NUM> can recognize the operation of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) and the operation of article moving device <NUM> by a simulation. It should be noted that although board production line <NUM> shown in <FIG> includes four board work machines WM (component mounters <NUM>), nine board work machines WM (component mounters <NUM>) are shown in <FIG>.

Display section <NUM> can display recovery production machine WM0, board work machine WM that performs the board work based on the scheduled production plan, and board work machine WM that is stopped without performing the board work to be distinguishable. Similar to recovery production time zone TP1 described above, recovery production machine WM0 refers to board work machine WM that performs the board work, after the scheduled production plan is changed due to the shortage of article AR0 in board work machine WM, based on the changed production plan.

Display section <NUM> can, for example, display display lamp LP1 indicating the operating status of board work machine WM by the simulation (component mounter <NUM>). Display lamp LP1 simulates a display lamp provided in board work machine WM, and the light emitting color thereof is changed depending on the operating status of board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>). Display device 7DP can display, for example, board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) that performs the board work based on the scheduled production plan by green display lamp LP1. Display device 7DP can display, for example, recovery production machine WM0 (component mounter <NUM>) by yellow display lamp LP1. Display device 7DP can display, for example, board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) that is stopped without performing the board work by red display lamp LP1. It should be noted that display section <NUM> can also display display lamp LP2 indicating the operating status of article moving device <NUM> by the simulation.

Display section <NUM> can sterically display the supply operation of supplying and conveying article AR0 stored in storage device <NUM> to board work machine WM to which article is to be supplied by article moving device <NUM>, the collection operation of conveying and collecting article AR0, which is no longer needed in board work machine WM, to storage device <NUM> by article moving device <NUM>. Specifically, in a case in which display section <NUM> causes display device 7DP to display the supply operation, article moving device <NUM> shown in <FIG> is moved from storage device <NUM> toward board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) to which article AR0 is to be supplied. In a case in which display section <NUM> causes display device 7DP to display the collection operation, article moving device <NUM> is moved from board work machine WM (component mounter <NUM>) toward storage device <NUM>. As a result, the user of simulation device <NUM> can visually recognize the supply operation and the collection operation of article moving device <NUM> by a simulation.

In addition, in the present embodiment, board work machine WM includes first slot <NUM> that holds article AR0 used for the production of the board product in an exchangeable manner, and second slot <NUM> that can preliminarily hold article AR0 or can temporarily hold article AR0 to be collected. In addition, article moving device <NUM> performs the exchange operation of article AR0 between first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM>. In this form, display section <NUM> can sterically display an occupation region of article AR0 in first slot <NUM> and an occupation region of article AR0 in second slot <NUM>.

For example, in a case in which article AR0 is feeder <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, display section <NUM> can sterically display the occupation region of article AR0 in first slot <NUM> and the occupation region of article AR0 in second slot <NUM> by rectangular parallelepiped simulating feeder <NUM>. In this case, the region occupied by the rectangular parallelepiped in first slot <NUM> corresponds to the occupation region of feeder <NUM> in first slot <NUM>. In second slot <NUM>, the region occupied by the rectangular parallelepiped corresponds to the occupation region of feeder <NUM> in second slot <NUM>. As a result, the user of simulation device <NUM> can visually recognize an occupation state or an empty state of article AR0 (feeder <NUM>) in first slot <NUM> and second slot <NUM>.

In addition, display section <NUM> can change the display color depending on equipped article AR0 (in this case, feeder <NUM>). Display device 7DP can display, for example, feeder <NUM>, which is initially disposed, in green. Display device 7DP can display, for example, feeder <NUM>, which is needed due to the shortage of feeder <NUM> (component supplied from feeder <NUM>), in yellow. Display device 7DP can display, for example, feeder <NUM>, which is needed due to the changeover, in red. Display device 7DP can display, for example, feeder <NUM> to be used in the next production plan in blue. The display colors described above coincide with the display colors in the timeline display. It should be noted that display device 7DP can also display feeder <NUM> used for the production plan at the present time (time T1 shown in <FIG>) and feeder <NUM> used for the production plan subsequent to the next production plan to be distinguishable.

<FIG> shows a display example of fourth display region DA4. Based on the time series information output by output section <NUM>, display section <NUM> can cause display device 7DP to display production plan information DB1, operation state information DB2 of article moving device <NUM>, camera information DB3, operation content information DB4 of article moving device <NUM>, use state information DB5 and setting information DB6 of holding section <NUM>, and the like.

Production plan information DB1 includes information regarding the production plan. The production plan is identified by an identification number. Display device 7DP can display, for example, the identification number of the production plan at the present time (time T1 shown in <FIG>) of the simulation and the total number of the production plans as production plan information DB1. Operation state information DB2 of article moving device <NUM> includes text information regarding the operation state of article moving device <NUM>. Display device 7DP can display, for example, the step number of the present time (time T1 shown in <FIG>) of the simulation, the total number of steps, and the operation state (text information) of article moving device <NUM> as operation state information DB2.

Camera information DB3 includes, in third display region DA3 shown in <FIG>, information regarding a line-of-sight direction when display device 7DP sterically displays the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>. In the present embodiment, the line-of-sight direction includes five directions. Display device 7DP sterically displays the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM> from the line-of-sight direction specified by the designated number.

Operation content information DB4 of article moving device <NUM> includes information regarding the operation content of article moving device <NUM> and information regarding target article AR0 (for example, feeder <NUM>). Display device 7DP can selectively display, for example, moving state 81a of article moving device <NUM>, carrying-out state 81b in which article moving device <NUM> carries article AR0 (for example, feeder <NUM>) out by using holding section <NUM>, and carrying-in state 81c in which article AR0 is carried in. Display device 7DP can selectively display first target 81d, second target 81e, third target 81f, and fourth target <NUM>. First target 81d represents an operation with respect to article AR0 used in the production plan at present time (time T1 shown in <FIG>). Second target 81e represents an operation with respect to article AR0 used in the next production plan. Third target 81f represents an operation with respect to article AR0 used in the next after the next production plan. Fourth target <NUM> represents an operation with respect to article AR0 used in the subsequent production plan.

In addition, display device 7DP can selectively display first application <NUM> indicating article AR0 used for the changeover, second application 81i indicating article AR0 needed due to the shortage, third application 81j indicating article AR0 needed after the shortage, and fourth application <NUM> indicating article AR0 for which the notice of the shortage is given.

Use state information DB5 of holding section <NUM> includes information regarding the use state of holding section <NUM> at time T1 (refer to <FIG>) indicated by timeline bar TB0. In the present embodiment, each of two holding sections <NUM> shown in <FIG> can hold two feeders <NUM> and carry two feeders <NUM> into the slot or out of the slot in article moving device <NUM>. Feeder <NUM> held by holding section <NUM> is identified by identification numbers <NUM> to <NUM>. Display device 7DP can display, for example, the identification number of feeder <NUM> held by holding section <NUM> and the target slot (first slot <NUM> or second slot <NUM>).

The display of the identification number indicates a carrying-in state in which holding section <NUM> holds feeder <NUM> and carries feeder <NUM> into the slot or a carrying-out state in which feeder <NUM> is carried out of the slot (during use of holding section <NUM>). The non-display of the identification number indicates a state in which holding section <NUM> does not hold feeder <NUM> (holding section <NUM> is not used). In the present embodiment, article moving device <NUM> includes holding section <NUM> that holds article AR0 and carries article AR0 in and out of board work machine WM. In this form, display section <NUM> can display the carrying-in state and the carrying-out state of article AR0 by holding section <NUM>. As a result, the user of simulation device <NUM> can recognize the use state of holding section <NUM>.

Setting information DB6 includes various setting information relating to the simulation. Display device 7DP is configured by a touch panel, and display device 7DP also serves as an input device that receives various manipulations by the user. When the user of simulation device <NUM> manipulates manipulation section 82a, it is possible to select a simulation setting file. When the user of simulation device <NUM> manipulates manipulation section 82b, it is possible to set the reproduction speed of the simulation (speed of the time elapse of the timeline). When the user of simulation device <NUM> manipulates manipulation section 82c, the reproduction speed of the simulation is set to be decreased (for example, <NUM>/<NUM> times). When the user of simulation device <NUM> manipulates manipulation section 82d, the reproduction of the simulation is temporarily stopped. When the user of simulation device <NUM> manipulates manipulation section 82e, the reproduction speed of the simulation is set to be increased (for example, doubled).

When the user of simulation device <NUM> manipulates manipulation section 82f, a file in which the results of simulation are recorded is displayed. When the user of simulation device <NUM> manipulates manipulation section <NUM>, the display (simplified display or display shown in <FIG>) of board production line <NUM> displayed in third display region DA3 shown in <FIG> is changed. When the user of simulation device <NUM> manipulates manipulation section <NUM>, the display or non-display of setting information DB6 is changed.

As shown in <FIG>, in the present embodiment, storage device <NUM> is provided in board production line <NUM>, and article moving device <NUM> can travel along a traveling path formed by first rail <NUM> and second rail <NUM> of exchange system <NUM>. However, storage device <NUM> and article moving device <NUM> are not limited to the forms described above, and can take various forms. For example, storage device <NUM> can be provided at a position separated from board production line <NUM>, and can supply article AR0 to multiple board production lines <NUM> and collect article AR0 from multiple board production lines <NUM>.

In addition, for example, article moving device <NUM> can use an unmanned conveyance vehicle. The unmanned conveyance vehicle is an automatic guided vehicle (AGV) that can perform self-traveling without requiring a driving manipulation by the worker. The unmanned conveyance vehicle, which is article moving device <NUM>, can travel, for example, between the storage device provided at a position separated from board production line <NUM> and board work machine WM (for example, component mounter <NUM>). It should be noted that in the unmanned conveyance vehicle, multiple traveling routes may be assumed.

In addition, in a case in which multiple unmanned conveyance vehicles travel, the priority may be set in multiple unmanned conveyance vehicles. For example, the priority of the unmanned conveyance vehicle that conveys article AR0 due to the occurrence of the shortage of article AR0 is set higher than the priority of the unmanned conveyance vehicle that conveys article AR0 for the changeover. In addition, in a case in which the storage device supplies article AR0 to multiple board production lines <NUM>, the priority of the unmanned conveyance vehicle may be set depending on the production priority in board production line <NUM> which is a conveyance destination. Further, the priority of the unmanned conveyance vehicle that supplies article AR0 is set higher than the priority of the unmanned conveyance vehicle that collects article AR0. As described above, in a case in which article moving device <NUM> is the unmanned conveyance vehicle, simulation section <NUM> can simulate the operating status of board work machine WM and the operating status of article moving device <NUM>, including the traveling route and the priority of the unmanned conveyance vehicle, the operating statuses of other unmanned conveyance vehicles, the operating statuses of other board production lines <NUM>, and the like.

It is also possible to similarly apply the above description of simulation device <NUM> to the simulation method. Specifically, the simulation method includes a simulation step and an output step. The simulation step corresponds to the control performed by simulation section <NUM>. The output step corresponds to the control performed by output section <NUM>. The simulation method can further include a display step. The display step corresponds to the control performed by display section <NUM>.

Simulation device <NUM> includes simulation section <NUM> and output section <NUM>. Accordingly, simulation device <NUM> can output the temporal change of the operating status of board work machine WM and the temporal change of the operating status of article moving device <NUM>. It is also possible to similarly apply the above description of simulation device <NUM> to the simulation method.

Claim 1:
A simulation device (<NUM>) comprising:
a simulation section (<NUM>) configured to simulate based on a production plan of a board product:
- an operating status of a board work machine (WM) configured to perform predetermined board work on a board (<NUM>) and to produce the board product, and
- an operating status of an article moving device (<NUM>) configured to supply an article (ARO) needed for production of the board product to the board work machine, wherein the article moving device includes a control device (<NUM>) configured to control movement of the article moving device,
the production plan including type and number of needed articles, type and number of board products, wherein the production plan being input and changeable by an operator;
an output section (<NUM>) configured to output time series information indicating a temporal change of the operating status of the board work machine and a temporal change of the operating status of the article moving device, which are results of simulation by the simulation section; and
a display section (<NUM>) configured to, based on the outputted time series information, display
- a first operating time zone (TD1) in which the board work machine is operated and a first stop time zone (TN1) in which the board work machine is stopped, and
- a second operating time zone (TD2) in which the article moving device is operated and a second stop time zone (TN2) in which the article moving device is stopped
on a display device (7DP) in a timeline in a comparative manner.