JP7190139B2 - Weighing system - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to a weighing system, an electronic scale, and a marker for an electronic scale for performing inventory management of processed materials based on the weight of processed products measured by an electronic scale.

Processed products such as precious metals (for example, dental laboratory products, hereinafter simply referred to as processed products) are manufactured by cutting and polishing raw materials such as precious metals (hereinafter simply referred to as processed materials). In general, the manufacturer of the processed product calculates the cost of the processed material according to the weight of the processed product and charges the cost to the orderer.

A scale is utilized to measure the weight of the processed product. Conventionally, an electronic scale has a weighing pan installed on the surface of the balance, measures the weight of an object placed on the weighing pan, and displays the weight of the weighing object as a numerical value. Various types are known.

For example, in Patent Document 1, a weighing unit is provided on the top surface of a scale body, a display unit for displaying weighing results is provided on the side surface of the scale body, and a camera is held on the upper end of a pillar erected on the top surface of the scale body. An electronic kitchen scale is disclosed in which a unit is installed and a camera for photographing a dish on which the weighing unit is placed is provided on the lower surface of the camera holding unit.

Further, in Patent Document 2, a weighing pan on which an object to be weighed is placed is installed on the upper surface of the main body, two pillars are erected on the upper surface of the main body, and a support member is stretched between the upper ends of the pillars. A weighing device is described in which a touch panel is attached to a supporting member, and a camera for imaging an object to be weighed is attached below the touch panel.

JP 2014-167388 A JP 2016-176818 A

The manufacturer of the processed product measures the weight of the processed product using an electronic scale as described in Patent Literatures 1 and 2, and a constant factor greater than 1 (1.05 to 1.00) for the measured weight. 15) (hereinafter referred to as "correction for processing") and charge the orderer for the amount corresponding to the corrected weight for processing. Processing compensation is a process performed to add the weight of the processed product to the weight corresponding to the processing material lost during processing such as cutting and polishing. Here, the above-mentioned coefficients used for calculating the added amount are determined empirically according to the type and size of the processed product.

However, such processing correction is a very complicated process for the manufacturer and requires a certain number of man-hours. In addition, the fact that coefficients are determined based on the experience of the manufacturer has been a factor in the client's sense of ambiguity.
Therefore, for example, it is required to weigh and correct the weight of processed products with high accuracy and fairness, to leave evidence that it has been weighed and corrected with high accuracy and fairness, and to make the evidence easily accessible.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve such problems. Intended to provide a marker.

A weighing system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a data acquisition unit that acquires image data obtained by photographing a display unit of an electronic scale that displays a measurement result of the weight of a processed product, and an icon that includes the image data. and a calendar display unit for displaying on a calendar corresponding to the shooting date and time.
In the weighing system according to one embodiment of the present invention, in association with the icon, at least the date and time of photography, the weight of the processed product, the corrected weight of the processed product, or information identifying the processed product Show one.
A weighing system according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes a calibration unit that captures an image of the display unit of the electronic balance that is being calibrated to generate image data, and the data acquisition unit includes: The image data is acquired from the calibration unit.
In the weighing system according to one embodiment of the present invention, the calibration section restricts the operation of the weighing system when the period from the previous calibration to the present exceeds a predetermined threshold.
A weighing system according to an embodiment of the present invention further includes a data logger section for capturing an image of the display section of the electronic scale measuring the weight of the processed product to generate image data, wherein the data logger section obtains the weight of the processed product by extracting and enlarging only the periphery of the display unit from the image data to generate enlarged image data, and performing character recognition using the enlarged image data.

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a weighing system, an electronic scale, and an electronic scale marker for performing inventory management of processed materials based on the weight of processed products measured by an electronic scale.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the electronic scale 1 when the lid is upright; FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the electronic scale 1 when the cover is collapsed; 2 is a plan view of a scale main body of the electronic scale 1; FIG. FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the electronic scale 1 when the lid is upright; 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a processing material weighing system 1000. FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of processing of a processed portion correction unit 130; 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a weighing system 2000 for processing materials; FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a weighing system 3000 for processing materials; FIG. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example in which markers having a predetermined color or shape are provided at two or more locations (for example, four corners) on the upper surface of the scale body. It is a figure explaining the example which provided the marker in the predetermined position near the display part of the electronic balance. It is a figure which shows an example of the icon displayed on an evidence calendar. It is a figure which shows an example of an evidence calendar. 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a weighing system 4000 for processing materials. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing how the electronic balance 1 is calibrated. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a weighing system 5000 for processing materials; FIG.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
<Embodiment 1>
First, an electronic balance 1 used in Embodiment 1 of the present invention will be described. 1 to 3 are diagrams showing an example of the electronic balance 1. FIG. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the electronic balance 1 includes a balance body 2 and a lid 3 capable of closing the top surface of the balance body 2 .

The peripheral surface of the scale body 2 is covered with a relatively flat resin case 4. On the upper surface of the case 4, as shown in FIG. A display unit 6 for displaying the weight of the object A, and various operation buttons such as an ON/OFF switch 7 and a reset button 9 are provided.

Although not shown, the case 4 incorporates a weight detection device for measuring the weight of the object A placed on the weighing pan 5, a control board having a calculation section and a storage section, a power supply, and the like. Preferably, a connector 11 for detachably connecting a storage medium B such as a USB memory is provided on the side surface of the case 4 (FIGS. 1 and 2).

The cover 3 is attached to one end of the scale main body 2 so as to be able to rise and fall, and clicks to stop when it stands up to a predetermined angle. A camera 12 such as a CCD camera and an illumination device 10 such as an LED are installed on the surface of the lid 3 facing the scale body 2 . The camera 12 is installed at a position and an angle capable of capturing an image of the upper surface of the scale body 2 including the weighing pan 5 and the display unit 6 when the lid 3 is raised to a predetermined angle and clicked and stopped.

The illumination device 10 automatically emits light when the object A to be weighed is placed on the weighing pan 5 or emits light by operating an operation button, and the weighing pan 5 and the scale body 2 including the display unit 6 are illuminated. The light is directed toward the upper surface of the . The angles of the camera 12 and the lighting device 10 may be adjustable.

After the lid 3 is raised to a predetermined angle to expose the surface of the scale main body 2 and the ON/OFF switch 7 is operated to activate the weighing pan 5, the weight is detected. The device measures the weight of the object A to be weighed, and the weight is displayed on the display section 6 as a number.

Next, the camera 12 photographs the upper surface of the scale main body 2 including the weighing pan 5 and the display section 6, and the image data photographed by the camera 12 is stored in the storage section of the control board. At this time, the camera 12 preferably captures the object A placed on the weighing pan 5 and the weight of the object A displayed on the display unit 6 into one image at the same time. The imaging by the camera 12 may be performed automatically after the weight is displayed on the display unit 6, or may be performed by operating an operation button. Also, after imaging by the camera 12, trapezoidal correction processing may be performed as necessary. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, markers 61 having a predetermined color or shape may be provided at two or more locations (for example, four corners) on the upper surface of the scale body 2 in order to facilitate trapezoidal correction processing. In this case, correct and reliable processing can be performed by performing trapezoidal correction using the marker 61 as a base point.

Further, if the storage medium B is connected to the connector 11 of the scale body 2, the image data captured by the camera 12 can be stored in the storage medium B. In addition, the electronic scale 1 transmits the weight of the object to be weighed A, which is the measurement result, and the image data captured by the camera 12, using a wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or WiFi, or other wired or wireless communication means. It may be sent to an electronic device (not shown) outside the electronic scale 1 .

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of the electronic balance 1. As shown in FIG. In this example, a camera 12 and an illumination device 10 are installed on the upper surface of the scale body 2 . Further, the lid 3 is provided on the surface facing the scale body 2 so that the image of the top surface of the scale body 2 including the weighing pan 5 and the display unit 6 is directed toward the camera 12 when the lid 3 is raised up to a predetermined angle. It has reflecting means 13 for reflecting light. As the reflecting means 13, for example, there is a mirror or a highly reflective metal deposition layer.

Therefore, when the ON/OFF switch 7 is operated with the cover 3 erected at a predetermined angle and the object A to be weighed is placed on the weighing pan 5, the weight of the object A to be weighed is displayed on the display section 6, and the reflection means 13 Since the image of the upper surface of the scale main body 2 is reflected toward the camera 12, the camera 12 images together the object A to be weighed on the weighing pan 5 and the display 6 displaying its weight. Other configurations and methods of use are similar to those of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, so common reference numerals are given to the same parts, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

Next, a processing material weighing system 1000 including the electronic scale 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the weighing system 1000. As shown in FIG. Weighing system 1000 includes management device 100 , input means 200 , and electronic scale 1 .

The management device 100 has an input means interface 110, an electronic scale interface 120, a processed component correction unit 130, a storage unit 140, and an output unit 150. The management device 100 has a central processing unit (CPU) and a storage device. logically implements each of the above processing units by executing the program stored in the storage device. The management device 100 may be a single device, or may be a computer system implemented by a plurality of devices performing parallel or distributed processing. The management device 100 is typically arranged in the same network as the input means 200 and the electronic scale 1, or is directly connected to the same network. It may be remotely located. For example, the management device 100 may be a smart phone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, or the like, or may be implemented as a so-called cloud service.

The input means interface 110 is connected to the input means 200 for wired or wireless communication. The input means interface 110 acquires information or the like for identifying processed products via the input means 200 . The input means 200 can typically be a bar code scanner, keyboard, imaging unit capable of image recognition, IC tag reader, etc., but is not limited to these. The input means 200 reads, for example, a barcode or the like described in an instruction sheet sent from a dental clinic, acquires identification information (hereinafter simply referred to as identification information) that can uniquely identify an order, and inputs the input means interface 110. output to

Also, the input means interface 110 may acquire information on processing input by the user using the input means 200 . The information about processing may include, for example, information for identifying materials used for processing, information for identifying processing bases, information for identifying processing workers, information for identifying orderers, information for identifying processing steps, and the like. The processing steps include, for example, in the case of manufacturing a dental technical product, steps such as storage of materials, delivery (carrying out) of materials, risers, before polishing, after polishing, and recovery of surplus materials. A user can use the weighing system 1000 to weigh and record materials each time at least one of these steps is performed.

In general, the identification information is stored in a management system (not shown) in association with information related to ordering. Information regarding the order may include, for example, the type of work product (such as the tooth part), the material to be used, the size of the work product, and the like.

The electronic scale interface 120 is connected to the electronic scale 1 for wired or wireless communication. The electronic scale 1 outputs at least the measured value of the weight of the processed product to the electronic scale interface 120 . Preferably, the electronic balance 1 captures image data captured by the camera 12, that is, an image containing the object A placed on the weighing pan 5 and the weight of the object A displayed on the display unit 6 at the same time. Data may be output in association with the weight of the processed product. The electronic scale interface 120 outputs the weight of the processed product to the processed component correction unit 130 . Alternatively, if the processing amount correction processing is unnecessary, the electronic scale interface 120 outputs the weight of the processed product to the storage unit 140 or the output unit 150 .

In order to add the weight of the processed material lost in the processing process to the weight of the processed product, the processing amount correction unit 130 obtains the measured value of the weight of the processed product output by the electronic scale interface 120, and adds 1 to the measured value. Processed portion correction processing is performed by multiplying by a larger constant coefficient (approximately 1.05 to 1.15). For example, the processed portion correction unit 130 holds a correction table as shown in FIG. 6 in a storage area (not shown). The correction table in FIG. 6 is a table that associates the finished weight of the processed product with the coefficient. In this case, the processed product correction unit 130 refers to the correction table and acquires the coefficient corresponding to the weight of the processed product acquired by the electronic scale interface 120 . Then, the weight of the processed product is multiplied by the coefficient to obtain the weight after correction for the processed product.

The format of the correction table is not limited to this. For example, coefficients can be set according to the type of processed product (teeth part, etc.), material, size, orderer (dentist's office, etc.), or a combination of these. It may be configured so that it can be specified. In this case, the processing part correction unit 130 uses the identification information of the above-mentioned instruction sheet to obtain information such as the type of processed product (tooth part, etc.), material, size, orderer, etc. from an instruction sheet management system (not shown). Information can be obtained. Alternatively, the processed portion correction unit 130 may directly acquire these pieces of information input by the user via the above-described input means 200 or the like.

Further, instead of the correction table, the processed component correction unit 130 may have a conversion formula, a statistical model, a machine-learned model, or the like, which inputs the weight of the processed product and outputs the coefficient or the weight after correction. .

The processed amount correction unit 130 outputs the weight after the processed amount correction to the storage unit 140 or the output unit 150 . Preferably, the identification information acquired by the input means interface 110 and the image data acquired by the electronic scale interface 120 are output in association with the weight after correction of the processed amount.

The storage unit 140 acquires and stores the weight after processing correction from the processing correction unit 130 . Alternatively, the weight of the processed product is obtained from the electronic scale interface 120 and stored. Preferably, the weight is stored in association with the identification information and image data.

The output unit 150 acquires the post-process correction weight from the process correction unit 130 and outputs it to the outside. Alternatively, the weight of the processed product is acquired from the electronic scale interface 120 and output to the outside. Preferably, the weight is output in association with the identification information and the image data.

The information stored by the storage unit 140 and the information output by the output unit 150 are, for example, descriptions on delivery slips, descriptions on bills, registration in an order management system, and inventory of processed materials in the manufacturer's office. Can be used for management, etc.

Conventionally, in dental laboratories, when processing materials are purchased, the purchase amount is manually entered into the management system, and when the person in charge of processing takes out processing materials, the amount taken out is manually entered into the management system. So, I managed the amount of purchase and the amount of takeout. However, it has been difficult to control the amount of processing material used. This is because the amount of processing materials lost during processing such as cutting and polishing could not be measured, and the amount actually used for processing was unknown. In this respect, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to automatically calculate and record the amount of processing material used and the amount of processing material lost during the processing process at important points in the processing process. This makes it possible to manage the inventory of processed materials by referring to the recorded data. That is, it is possible to identify the amount of processing material used and the amount of inventory at a certain point in time up to the present. Also, past performance values can be used to estimate the usage and inventory of processing materials at some point in the future. It is also possible to specify the amount of processing material used and the weight of the processed product for each processing base and processing operator, and calculate the loss rate of the processing material. Such information is useful, for example, when instructing processing workers. In addition, the weight data (the measured value of the weight of the workpiece A or the numerical value indicating the weight after the measured value has been corrected for the amount of processing) is image data captured by the camera 12, that is, placed on the weighing pan 5. The weight data of the object A placed on the display unit 6 and the weight of the object A displayed on the display unit 6 are stored or output in association with the image data. You can leave physical evidence that proves something.

In addition, conventionally, the amount of processing materials used was calculated based on experience, so the calculation standards differed depending on the person in charge of processing and dental laboratory, which was a factor that made the orderer feel uncertain. However, according to the present invention, the machining amount correction can be performed on a consistent basis. Therefore, the breakdown of processing costs becomes clear for the orderer.

In some cases, dentists themselves purchase processing materials and entrust the processing materials to dental laboratories for processing. In such a case, the output unit 150 can calculate the inventory amount of the processing material based on, for example, the purchase record of the processing material and the use record (or predicted value), and present it to the dentist or the like. is. Furthermore, the output unit 150 may issue an alert prompting purchase or automatically execute order processing when, for example, a predetermined inventory amount falls below a threshold value.

Also, in a dental laboratory, it is an advantage that all persons in charge of processing can correct the processed portion based on the same standard. For example, the output unit 150 can determine whether or not the processing technique is skillful or illegal, depending on whether or not there is a discrepancy between the amount of processing material taken out and the amount of use corrected for processing. .

<Embodiment 2>
FIG. 7 shows the configuration of a weighing system 2000 according to the second embodiment. A weighing system 2000 includes an electronic scale 1 , a management device 100 and a terminal device 300 .

An electronic balance 1 according to Embodiment 2 has a balance main body 2 . The structure of the scale main body 2 is the same as that of the first embodiment. That is, the scale main body 2 has a case 4, and on the upper surface of the case 4 are a weighing pan 5 on which the object A to be weighed is placed, a display portion 6 for displaying the weight of the object A to be weighed, an ON/OFF switch 7, and a reset switch. A button 9 or the like is provided. Inside the case 4, a weight detection device for measuring the weight of the object A placed on the weighing pan 5, a control board having a calculation section and a storage section, a power supply, and the like are incorporated.

The terminal device 300 has a data logger section 310 and an information input section 320 . The terminal device 300 is preferably a portable information processing terminal, typically a smart device such as a smart phone or a tablet terminal. The terminal device 300 has hardware such as a CPU, a memory, an input/output device (including a wired or wireless communication device, an output device such as a display device, and an input device such as a touch panel), a camera, etc., and the CPU executes programs. Thus, the functions of the data logger section 310 and the information input section 320 are logically realized.

The data logger section 310 uses the camera of the terminal device 300 to obtain an image of the display section 6 of the electronic scale 1 displaying the weight of the object A to be weighed. The data logger section 310 can display on the screen of the terminal device 300 a mark, a frame, or the like for aligning the position of the display section 6 at the time of photographing. The user captures an image on the display unit 6 by aligning the position with the mark or frame. Then, the data logger section 310 executes character recognition processing within the area indicated by the mark or frame in the character recognition processing described later. As a result, it is possible to limit the target area of the processing for recognizing characters in the image, so that it is possible to shorten the time required for character recognition processing and improve the recognition accuracy.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 10 , the electronic balance 1 may have a marker 62 (mark, frame, etc.) that can be recognized by the data logger section 310 at a predetermined position near the display section 6 . The marker 62 is, for example, a mark indicating an end point (typically a corner portion) of an arbitrary area (typically a rectangular area) surrounding the display section 6, a line segment or figure indicating a part of the area, or the It may be a frame indicating the shape of the area. As the marker 62, a mark or a frame is typically printed on the upper surface of the scale main body 2, or attached to the electronic scale 1 by attaching a predetermined sticker or the like that can be attached to the electronic scale. The data logger unit 310 first recognizes the mark or frame in the image in the character recognition process described later, and then executes the character recognition process within the area indicated by the mark or frame. As a result, it is possible to limit the target area of the processing for extracting characters from the image, thereby shortening the character recognition processing time and improving the recognition accuracy.

Also, the data logger unit 310 may perform trapezoidal correction processing after imaging, if necessary. In order to facilitate trapezoidal correction processing, markers 61 having a predetermined color or shape may be provided, for example, at the four corners of the upper surface of the scale body 2 . In this case, correct and reliable processing can be performed by performing trapezoidal correction using the marker 61 as a base point. Note that the mark or frame as the marker 62 defining the area including the display section drawn on the upper surface of the weighing body 2 may be used as the marker 61 for trapezoidal correction of the area including the display section. .

When the data logger section 310 acquires an image including the display section 6, it recognizes characters in the image and outputs the recognition result as numerical data indicating the weight of the object A to be weighed. Character recognition processing from an image, that is, OCR (Optical Character Recognition) can be realized by a known technique, so detailed description thereof will be omitted here. As described above, in the present embodiment, the data logger unit 310 displays on the screen of the terminal device 300 a mark, a frame, or the like for aligning the position of the display unit 6 at the time of photographing. By providing a mark, frame, or the like that can be recognized by the data logger section 310 at a predetermined position, it is possible to improve the time and accuracy of character recognition processing.

Note that the data logger section 310 may execute character recognition processing successively each time an image is captured, or may collectively execute character recognition processing after a plurality of images are captured. The data logger section 310 may also have a user interface for allowing the user to confirm whether or not the character recognition result is correct, and to correct the character recognition result if necessary. For example, a photographed image, character recognition results based on the image, a button for approving the character recognition results, a keypad for editing the character recognition results, and the like can be displayed on the screen.

Here, when the data logger section 310 takes an image of the display section 6 of the electronic balance 1, it is preferable that the object to be weighed A placed on the weighing pan 5 is captured in the image at the same time. It is possible to leave physical evidence suggesting that the numerical data output by the data logger section 310 certainly indicates the weight of the object A to be weighed.

The data logger unit 310 transmits numerical data indicating the weight of the object A to be weighed to the management device 100 using the wired or wireless communication device of the terminal device 300 . The communication device can transmit data using a wireless communication standard such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or WiFi. Further, the data logger section 310 may associate the photographed image with the weight of the object A to be weighed and transmit it to the management device 100 . This makes it possible to reliably leave information that supports the measurement results.

More preferably, the data logger section 310 performs processing correction processing on numerical data indicating the weight of the object A to be weighed, and then transmits weight data after processing correction to the management device 100 . The content of the processing portion correction processing is the same as the content of the processing performed by the processing portion correction section 130 described above. That is, the data logger unit 310 multiplies the numerical data indicating the weight of the object A to be weighed by a constant coefficient (approximately 1.05 to 1.15) larger than 1 to obtain the weight data after the correction of the processed amount. Calculate The coefficients may be given by arbitrary conversion formulas, statistical models, machine-learned models, etc., in addition to the correction table shown in FIG. Also, the coefficient may vary depending on the type of processed product (tooth portion, etc.), material, size, and the like. In this case, information such as the type of processed product (part of the tooth, etc.), material, size, etc. may be directly input via the input device of the terminal device 300, or may be input via the information input unit 320, which will be described later. can be

The information input unit 320 uses the camera and input device of the terminal device 300 to acquire information and the like for identifying processed products. For example, the camera of the terminal device 300 reads a bar code or the like written on the instruction sheet, and acquires identification information that can uniquely identify the order. The information input unit 320 transmits the acquired identification information to the management device 100 . The information input unit 320 may also transmit an image including a barcode or the like to the management device 100 together. Preferably, both the identification information acquired by the information input unit 320 and the weight data acquired or generated by the data logger unit 310 are output to the management device 100 . In other words, the identification information and the weight data are associated and output to the management device 100 .

Note that the data logger section 310 and the information input section 320 may be implemented as a single unit. For example, the camera of the terminal device 300 is connected to the object A placed on the weighing pan 5, the display unit 6 of the electronic scale 1 displaying the weight of the object A, and the instruction sheet. and a barcode, etc., are simultaneously imaged. The data logger unit 310 and the information input unit 320 obtain weight data (numerical data indicating the weight of the object A to be weighed, or numerical data after the weight of the object A to be weighed has been corrected for processing) from this one image. and identification information. This allows the user to record the weighing results more easily.

The management device 100 has an input section 160 , a storage section 140 and an output section 150 . The management device 100 is an information processing device, preferably a personal computer or a server computer implemented as a so-called cloud service. The management device 100 has hardware such as a CPU, memory, and input/output devices (including wired or wireless communication devices, output devices such as display devices, and input devices such as keyboards). The functions of the input unit 160, the storage unit 140, and the output unit 150 are realized logically.

The input unit 160 receives identification information acquired by the information input unit 320, weight data acquired or generated by the data logger unit 310, image data, and the like from the terminal device 300 via a wired or wireless communication device.

The storage unit 140 stores weight data after processing correction in association with identification information and image data. The output unit 150 outputs the weight after correction of the processed amount to the outside. Preferably, the weight after correction for the processed portion can be output together with the identification information and the image data. The information stored by the storage unit 140 and the information output by the output unit 150 are, for example, descriptions on delivery slips, descriptions on bills, registration in an order management system, and inventory of processed materials in the manufacturer's office. Can be used for management, etc.

Note that if the data logger section 310 of the terminal device 300 does not perform the processing correction process, the management apparatus 100 may have the processing correction section 130 as in the first embodiment. In this case, the processed amount correction unit 130 performs the processed amount correction process based on the numerical data indicating the weight of the object A to be weighed acquired by the data logger unit 310 .

<Embodiment 3>
In Embodiment 3, instead of the terminal device 300 recognizing characters displayed on the display unit 6 of the electronic scale 1 , the electronic scale 1 transmits weight data, which is the measurement result, to the terminal device 300 . As a result, character recognition processing in the terminal device 300 can be omitted.

FIG. 8 shows the configuration of a weighing system 3000 according to the third embodiment. A weighing system 3000 includes an electronic scale 1 , a management device 100 and a terminal device 300 . Compared with Embodiment 2, the configurations of the electronic scale 1 and the terminal device 300 are partly different, but the other configurations are the same. Here, differences from the second embodiment will be mainly described, and descriptions of common points will be omitted.

The electronic scale 1 according to this embodiment has a wired or wireless communication device for transmitting the weight of the object A to be weighed, which is the measurement result, to the outside. Typically, the electronic scale 1 can transmit data using wireless communication standards such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and WiFi. The electronic scale 1 displays the measurement result of the weight of the object A to be weighed on the display unit 6, and transmits the measurement result to the data logger unit 310 of the terminal device 300 via a wired or wireless communication device.
Alternatively, in the present embodiment, the electronic balance 1 may be one that does not have the display section 6 (such as a weight sensor). Instead, for example, the terminal device 300 that has received the measurement result from the electronic scale 1 displays the weight on a display unit (not shown). In this case, the data logger unit 310 does not need to perform OCR processing, and treats the measurement result received from the electronic scale 1 as it is as numerical data indicating the weight of the object A to be weighed.

The data logger section 310 of the terminal device 300 according to the present embodiment receives the weight data of the object A to be weighed from the electronic scale 1 through a wired or wireless communication device. The data logger unit 310 uses the camera of the terminal device 300 to display the object A placed on the weighing pan 5 and the display unit 6 of the electronic scale 1 displaying the weight of the object A. can be captured at the same time. Data logger section 310 transmits the weight data to management device 100 . At this time, it is preferable to transmit the weight data and the photographed image in association with each other. This makes it possible to reliably leave information that supports the measurement results. Also in this embodiment, the data logger section 310 may perform processing correction processing.
If the electronic balance 1 does not have the display unit 6 (such as a weight sensor), the data logger unit 310 uses the camera of the terminal device 300 to measure the object placed on the weighing pan 5. Take an image containing A. After that, the weight data received from the electronic scale 1 and the photographed image can be associated with each other and transmitted to the management device 100 .

The information input unit 320 of the terminal device 300 and the management device 100 operate in the same manner as in the second embodiment. As a result, the weight data and the identification information are associated and stored in the storage unit 140 of the management device 100 .
Here, the terminal device 300 may acquire the weight data after processing correction, the name of the dental clinic associated with the identification information, and the like from the management device 100, and display them on a display unit (not shown). For example, when the user uses the terminal device 300 to photograph the technical object placed on the electronic scale 1 and the instruction sheet with identification information at the same time, the display unit displays the photographed image, the weight data of the object to be weighed A, and the correction of the processed amount. It is configured so that later weight data and the name of the dental clinic that issued the instruction are displayed. As a result, the user can immediately visually recognize the measurement result and weight data after correction of the processed portion. In addition, even when complicated correction rules such as correction coefficients differ depending on the orderer are determined, it is possible to immediately check the weight data after correction of the processed portion and the grounds thereof.

<Embodiment 4>
A weighing system 4000 according to the fourth embodiment has a function of displaying acquired image data and the like in a calendar format. For example, when the weighing system 4000 acquires image data containing the object A to be weighed and the weight of the object A to be weighed output to the display unit 6, the icon 500 containing this image data is displayed on the calendar 600. to add. At this time, the icon 500 may be associated with the shooting date and time, weight data of the object A to be weighed, identification information, and the like.

With this calendar 600 (hereinafter referred to as the evidence calendar 600), dental laboratories, dental clinics, etc., can view evidence showing changes in inventory of dental materials such as precious metals and transitions in processing processes in an easy-to-understand interface with excellent at-a-glance. can be managed more strictly.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of the icon 500. As shown in FIG. Image data 510 captured by the camera 12 (typically, the weight of the object A placed on the weighing pan 5, the weight of the object A displayed on the display unit 6, and identification information are encoded in the icon 500). containing the instruction sheet 511, etc., including a bar code, etc.). In addition, the date and time 521 when the image data was captured, the weight data 522 of the object A to be weighed, the weight data 523 after correction of the processed amount, identification information, and various information linked to the identification information (material name “aaaaa” , laboratory name “bbbbb”, etc.) may additionally be displayed on the icon 500 . Alternatively, such additional information may be associated with the icon 500 and displayed by an arbitrary method (such as a pop-up) when a predetermined operation (such as a selection operation) is performed on the icon 500. .

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an evidence calendar 600. As shown in FIG. The evidence calendar 600 of this example is assumed to be viewed by a dental clinic, and only the icon 500 related to the supplier (dental laboratory) selected by the display target selection button 610 provided at the top is filtered and displayed. be able to. The evidence calendar 600 can display calendars in various known formats such as daily display, weekly display, and monthly display. Evidence calendar 600 displays icon 500 shown in FIG. 11 in the calendar. Typically, an icon 500 is displayed in the date column corresponding to the shooting date and time of the image data. When it is necessary to display a plurality of icons 500 on the same date, as shown in FIG. 12, the plurality of icons 500 may be displayed collectively by overlapping them. Also, the display form (color, shape, etc.) of the icon 500 may be changed according to the supplier, the processing base, the worker, the work process, and the like.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing the configuration of weighing system 4000 in this embodiment. Weighing system 4000 is characterized in that calendar display device 400 is added, but other configurations are the same as those of weighing systems 1000, 2000, and 3000 shown in the first to third embodiments. FIG. 13 shows a case where a calendar display device 400 is added to the weighing system 3000 of Embodiment 3 as an example. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, differences in operation and function from Embodiments 1 to 3 will be mainly described in detail.

The calendar display device 400 has a data acquisition section 410 and a calendar display section 420 . The data acquisition unit 410 acquires image data (typically, the object A placed on the weighing pan 5, the object to be weighed displayed on the (which contains the weight of A). In addition, data such as the date and time when the image data was captured, the weight data of the object A to be weighed, the weight data after correction of the processed amount, and the identification information may be obtained. Note that the data acquisition unit 410 can also acquire these pieces of information directly from the terminal device 300 without going through the management device 100 . Calendar display unit 420 displays calendar 600 in various known formats such as daily display, weekly display, and monthly display. At this time, the icon 500 shown in FIG. 11 is displayed on the date of the calendar 600 corresponding to the shooting date and time of the image data.

Note that the calendar display device 400 may be connected to a plurality of weighing systems 1000, 2000, or 3000. FIG. For example, the calendar display device 400 installed in a dental clinic may be connected to each of the weighing systems 1000, 2000, or 3000 installed in a plurality of dental laboratories to which orders are placed. As a result, the dental clinic, which is the orderer, can list icons 500 related to a plurality of orderers (dental laboratories). Also, the calendar display device 400 installed at the main base of the dental laboratory may be connected to each of the weighing systems 1000, 2000, or 3000 installed at each of a plurality of processing bases or workers. This allows the administrator of the dental laboratory to list icons 500 related to a plurality of processing bases or workers. Since the icon 500 incorporates information necessary for management of dental materials and processing steps, the orderer and manager can easily check the inventory status of dental materials entrusted to each laboratory, processing base, or worker. , the status of the workpiece in the machining process can be centrally and efficiently managed in chronological order.

A series of processes until the evidence calendar 600 is displayed will be described in chronological order. First, the terminal device 300 simultaneously displays the object A placed on the weighing pan 5 and the display section 6 of the electronic scale 1 on which the weight of the object A is output, using the camera within the device. Take the captured image. Preferably, the processing instructions sent from the dental clinic can be included in the image at the same time.

In addition to the weight data of the object A weighed by the electronic scale 1, the terminal device 300 adds the image data to the weight data of the object A to be weighed by the electronic scale 1, as well as the correction amount, the name of the precious metal, the name of the worker who performs the processing, the name of the processing base, the unique identification number, It is transmitted to the management device 100 after being associated with information related to processing and ordering, such as the shooting date/time, order date, and delivery date.

Next, the input unit 160 of the management device 100 acquires the image data and related data. A storage unit 140 and an output unit 150 store and output image data and related data.

The data acquisition unit 410 of the calendar display device 400 monitors the storage unit 140 at predetermined intervals and detects that new image data or the like has been accumulated. Alternatively, when the output unit 150 outputs newly acquired image data or the like, the data acquisition unit 410 receives the data. Based on the new image data and related data acquired in this manner, the calendar display unit 420 creates new icons 500 and displays them on the calendar 600 .

Furthermore, by linking the evidence calendar 600 with the administrator's ordering system, it is possible to calculate the optimal value of the order amount based on the periodic usage record of dental materials, and to check the progress of the work process of each workpiece at any time. You can add a function like

<Embodiment 5>
The weighing system 5000 according to the fifth embodiment is characterized by having a function that requires periodic calibration of the electronic scale 1 as a drive requirement for the weighing system 5000 . That is, the weighing system 5000 does not operate unless the electronic scale 1 is calibrated at predetermined intervals.

Calibration is the calibration of weighing instruments. In other words, it is a task of measuring the difference between the amount of the state of the physical phenomenon displayed by the measuring instrument and the amount of the state of the specific physical phenomenon that serves as a standard, and making adjustments to minimize the difference. In this embodiment, calibration is performed by comparing the weight displayed on the electronic balance 1 and the weight of a standard object and making necessary adjustments.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing how calibration using a standard is performed in the electronic balance 1 to be calibrated. A calibration procedure for the electronic balance 1 will be described. First, the electronic balance 1 to be calibrated is zero-adjusted (zero-reset) in a no-load state. Next, as shown in FIG. 14, a standard with a predetermined weight is placed for calibration. Here, it is confirmed whether the electronic scale 1 displays a predetermined weight with accuracy within an allowable range. The electronic balance 1 is adjusted when the error exceeds the allowable accuracy. In some cases, accuracy is ensured by repeating this work several times.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a weighing system 5000 according to this embodiment. The weighing system 5000 is characterized in that a calibration unit 330 is added to the terminal device 300, but other configurations are the same as those of the weighing systems 2000, 3000, or 4000 shown in Embodiments 2 to 4. is. FIG. 15 shows, as an example, a case where a calibration section 330 is added to the weighing system 3000 of the third embodiment. Hereinafter, in this embodiment, differences in operation and function from Embodiments 2 to 4 will be mainly described in detail.

(recommendation of calibration implementation)
The terminal device 300 activates the calibration unit 330 when the terminal is activated or at a predetermined timing. The calibration unit 330 reads out the last calibration execution date and time stored in a storage area (not shown) of the terminal device 300 . Alternatively, the last calibration implementation date and time may be acquired by accessing the storage unit 140 of the management apparatus 100 and reading the storage date and time of the image data captured during the last calibration. The calibration unit 330 calculates the difference between the previous calibration implementation date and time and the current date and time, and if the period exceeds a predetermined calibration implementation interval, the terminal device 300 other than the calibration unit 330 restrict the activation of the functions of Also, the user is notified to perform calibration.

(Implementation of calibration)
The terminal device 300 activates the calibration unit 330, for example, when detecting that the user has pressed a button or the like for instructing “execute calibration”. The calibration unit 330 captures an image of the standard placed on the weighing pan 5 and the display unit 6 of the electronic balance 1 outputting the weight of the standard by the camera in the apparatus. The calibration unit 330 transmits the captured image data and the weight data of the standard object to the management device 100 . The storage unit 140 of the management device 100 stores the received image data and the like together with the date and time. Preferably, the calibration unit 330 stores the date and time when the calibration was performed this time in a storage area (not shown) of the terminal device 300 .

If the weighing system 5000 includes the calendar display device 400 described in Embodiment 4, the calendar display unit 420 may display an icon including image data acquired during calibration on the evidence calendar. . At this time, the icon preferably displays characters or has a special display form to indicate that this is an image to be calibrated. As a result, administrators of dental clinics and dental laboratories can confirm whether or not each supplier, processing base, processing company, etc. regularly performs calibration by checking the evidence calendar. can.

According to the present embodiment, it is possible to give strong motivation to calibrate the electronic scale 1 . This ensures regular accuracy in weighing dental materials and workpieces and prevents loss of both resulting from accumulation of small errors.

Note that although an example in which the calibration unit 330 is provided in the terminal device 300 has been described in the present embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, it is possible to provide a calibration unit as one function of the electronic balances 1 of the first to fourth embodiments. In this case, the electronic scale 1 can limit activation of weighing functions other than those for the purpose of calibration if the elapsed time since the previous calibration exceeds a predetermined threshold value.

<Embodiment 6>
In the sixth embodiment, when the weight output to the display unit 6 of the electronic scale 1 is photographed by the camera of the terminal device 300 or the like, the data logger unit 310 recognizes the display unit 6 and enlarges the display (hereinafter referred to as , magnifying glass function). As a result, it is possible to improve recognition accuracy when the data logger unit 310 performs character recognition processing by OCR.

The configuration of the weighing system 6000 in this embodiment is similar to the configuration of the weighing systems 2000, 3000, 4000, or 5000 shown in the second to fifth embodiments, but the data logger section 310 of the weighing system 6000 has a magnifying glass function. It is characterized by having Hereinafter, in this embodiment, differences in operation and function from the second to fifth embodiments will be mainly described in detail.

The data logger unit 310 uses the camera of the terminal device 300 to photograph the display unit 6 of the electronic scale 1 displaying the weight of the object A to be weighed to acquire image data. At the time of photographing, the marker 62 indicating the position of the display section 6 is included in the image.

The data logger section 310 cuts out the area within the image defined by the marker 62 and generates enlarged image data with an increased magnification. At this time, predetermined image processing such as noise removal and enhancement may be added to the enlarged image data. The data logger section 310 uses this enlarged image data to perform character recognition by OCR. Further, the data logger unit 310 can display the enlarged image data on the screen for the user to confirm.

According to the present embodiment, data logger section 310 performs character recognition processing by OCR within the area defined by marker 62 . As a result, it is possible to limit the target area of the processing for extracting characters from the image, thereby shortening the character recognition processing time and improving the recognition accuracy. Further, by performing character recognition processing using the enlarged image data of the area limited by the marker 62, the recognition accuracy can be further improved.

In general, character recognition processing by OCR does not guarantee 100% accuracy. In particular, the digital numbers on low-brightness liquid crystal displays used in general electronic scales may not be read accurately, in which case the operator has to manually correct and input the weight numbers. In this regard, according to the present embodiment, the OCR accuracy can be improved, so the efficiency of a series of work processes can be improved.

The data logger unit 310 may be provided with a user interface for allowing the user to confirm whether or not the character recognition result is correct, and to correct the character recognition result as necessary. Automation) may be combined to automate the work of inputting numerical values into the information input unit 320 in the terminal device 300 .

It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, in the above-described embodiment, the user of the terminal device 300 approves and corrects the character recognition result from the image. can be For example, a user interface for approval and correction of character recognition results may be provided on the management device 100 side. As a result, for example, a manager of a dental laboratory, a doctor of a dental clinic, or the like can confirm physical evidence of the weight data and correct the weight data as necessary.

In addition, although the above-described embodiment has been described by taking the work of manufacturing a dental technical product as an example, the present invention is not limited to this, and can be applied to various work that requires inventory management of processing materials. . Specifically, it can easily be applied to the manufacture of jewelry that processes metal materials. Further, each processing means constituting the present invention may be configured by hardware, or may be logically realized by causing a CPU to execute a program. Programs may be provided to computers by various types of temporary or non-transitory media.

Further, in the above-described embodiment, the management device 100, the terminal device 300, and the calendar display device 400 are described as separate hardware, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the processes provided by these devices Means can be implemented in any hardware integrated or distributed. For example, all the processing means included in the management device 100, the terminal device 300, and the calendar display device 400 may be implemented in one piece of hardware. Alternatively, the present invention may be implemented by implementing arbitrary processing means in a plurality of pieces of hardware that are communicatively connected, and by linking these pieces of hardware.

A object to be weighed B storage medium 1 electronic scale 2 scale main body 3 cover 4 case 5 weighing plate 6 display 61 marker 62 marker 7 ON/OFF switch 8 processed component correction operation button 9 reset button 10 illumination device 11 connector 12 camera 13 reflection means 100 management device 110 input means interface 120 electronic scale interface 130 processed component correction unit 140 storage unit 150 output unit 200 input means 300 terminal device 310 data logger unit 320 information input unit 330 calibration unit 400 calendar display device 410 data acquisition Section 420 Calendar Display Section 500 Icon 510 Image Data 521 Date and Time of Photographing 522 Weight Data 523 Weight Data after Processed Text Correction 600 Calendar (Evidence Calendar)
610 Display object selection button 1000 Weighing system 2000 Weighing system 3000 Weighing system 4000 Weighing system 5000 Weighing system

Claims (5)

a data acquisition unit for acquiring image data obtained by photographing the display unit of the electronic scale displaying the measurement result of the weight of the processed product;
A weighing system, comprising: a calendar display unit that displays an icon containing the image data on a calendar in association with the date and time of the photographing. 2. The weighing system according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the date and time of the photographing, the weight of the processed product, the corrected weight of the processed product, or information identifying the processed product is displayed in association with the icon. further comprising a calibration unit that captures an image of the display unit of the electronic balance that is being calibrated to generate image data;
The weighing system according to claim 1, wherein the data acquisition section acquires the image data from the calibration section. 4. The weighing system according to claim 3, wherein the calibration section limits the operation of the weighing system when a period from the previous calibration to the present exceeds a predetermined threshold. further comprising a data logger section for capturing an image of the display section of the electronic scale measuring the weight of the processed product to generate image data;
The data logger unit generates enlarged image data obtained by cutting out only the periphery of the display unit from the image data and performing character recognition using the enlarged image data, thereby obtaining the weight of the processed product. Item 1. Weighing system according to item 1.

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