JP2018105634A - Combination scale - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To handle an operator having a lower access level while limiting operations according to an access level. SOLUTION: The operation mode is switched according to the access level of the authenticated operator, and the initial zero point calibration and the setting of the product type for setting the operation parameter are performed by the operator having the higher access level, and the operator having the lower access level The set product type can be selected and the operation can be started, the initial zero point calibration is performed for each type of measuring hopper to obtain the initial zero point value, and in the product type setting, the initial value for each type of measuring hopper is obtained. When the zero point value is set in association with each other and the operator selects the product type, the initial zero point value can be set according to the type of the weighing hopper. [Selection diagram] FIG. 9

Description

  The present invention relates to a combination weigher that combines and weighs objects to be weighed so as to have a weight within a predetermined weight range.

  The combination weigher generally includes a plurality of weighing hoppers, and the combination weight obtained by variously combining the weights of the objects to be weighed supplied to the plurality of weighing hoppers is equal to or equal to the target combination weight. A combination of weighing hoppers having a weight within a close predetermined weight range is selected, and an object to be weighed is discharged from the selected weighing hopper. Usually, a combination weigher is used together with a packaging machine, and an object to be weighed in a predetermined weight range measured by the combination weigher is discharged from the combination weigher, put into the packaging machine, and packaged as one packaged product by the packaging machine.

  There are various types of objects to be weighed by such combination weighers, and some objects to be weighed are easily attached. When an object to be weighed adheres to the weighing hopper, the actual weight of the object to be discharged from the weighing hopper becomes smaller than the weighed weight, and the weighing accuracy is lowered.

  For this reason, depending on the properties of the object to be weighed, the weighing hopper is changed from a standard weighing hopper to a dimple-specific weighing hopper made of a plate material on which unevenness to which the object to be weighed does not adhere is formed. The wall surface is exchanged with a mesh-type weighing hopper or the like made of mesh-like fibers.

  By the way, in the combination weigher, the initial calibration of the zero point of the weighing hopper, that is, the initial zero calibration is performed at the time of installation and periodic inspection. This initial zero calibration is performed by acquiring the weight value of the empty state in which the weighing hopper is free of objects and foreign objects as the initial zero value and storing it, and is performed with the standard weighing hopper attached. .

  This initially set initial zero value serves as a reference for the allowable range of weighing and affects the weighing error. Therefore, it has an operator with a high access level, for example, an administrator or expert knowledge. Only the manufacturer's engineer can perform initial zero calibration.

  On the other hand, in a daily operation, a general operator with a low access level adjusts the zero point of the weighing hopper immediately after the combination weigher is turned on, and the measured zero value is a predetermined value based on the initial zero value. When it is out of the allowable range, an error is notified. The cause of this error is, for example, drift due to aging of the load cell.

  In this way, when the zero value is out of the predetermined allowable range based on the initial zero value, an error is notified, so the weighing hopper can be connected to the standard according to the properties of the object to be weighed. When the weighing hopper of the specification is replaced with, for example, a weighing hopper of the dimple specification, the weight difference between the two weighing hoppers is large, and an error may be reported outside the predetermined allowable range.

  In such a case, it is necessary to perform initial zero point calibration again for the weighed hopper of the dimple specification that has been replaced, but the initial zero point calibration can be performed only by an operator such as a limited administrator with a high access level as described above. It cannot be performed by a general operator with a low access level.

  For this reason, it takes time for an operator such as a manager with a high access level on behalf of a general operator to go to the site and finish the initial zero calibration, and the operation rate of the combination weigher is reduced. As the type of the object to be weighed is frequently switched and the frequency of exchanging the weighing hopper increases, it becomes more remarkable. Moreover, since it is necessary to perform initial zero calibration every time the weighing hopper is replaced, the burden on an operator such as an administrator with a high access level is large.

  In Patent Document 1, in a semi-automatic combination weigher that manually puts an object to be weighed into a weighing hopper (weighing tank), when the objects to be weighed are combined and weighed, a specific object to be weighed, for example, an elongated asparagus, is measured In order to prevent the hopper from entering the hopper and contacting the platform other than the weighing hopper, it is described that an adapter is attached to the weighing hopper when the specific object to be weighed is measured.

  In Patent Document 1, various operating conditions including tare amounts of various adapters and a zero correction range are set, the above operating conditions are stored in the control unit, and the operating conditions suitable for the adapter to be used are changed when the operating conditions are changed. Is read from the storage device, a new reference zero is set, and a zero error is detected based on the new reference zero.

Japanese Utility Model Publication No. 7-38926

In Patent Document 1, the access level is not disclosed at all. Therefore, there is no description about the setting operation or the stored content according to the access level.
An operator such as a manager with a high access level has to perform initial zero calibration, and thus the above-mentioned problem that the operating rate of the combination weigher decreases is not disclosed.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and restricts the operation according to the access level, and can be handled not only by an operator with a higher access level but also by an operator with a lower access level. The purpose is to do so.

  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention is configured as follows.

(1) The present invention provides an operation mode according to an operation unit operated by an operator, an authentication unit that authenticates an operator who operates the operation unit, and an access level of an authenticated operator who operates the operation unit. An operation mode switching unit for switching,
The operation mode switching unit is set to a first operation mode in which a product type can be selected from a plurality of product types in which operation parameters are set in operation of the operation unit by an operator of a first access level, In operation of the operation unit by an operator with an access level higher than one access level, the second operation mode in which initial zero value calibration for obtaining an initial zero value can be performed is set, and access higher than the first access level is set. In the operation of the operation unit by the level operator, a third operation mode is set in which the operation parameters can be set for each of the plurality of types.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to perform initial zero calibration in the second operation mode by an authorized operator with an access level higher than the first access level, and in the third operation mode, the operation is performed for each of a plurality of types. Parameters can be set, and the first access level operator with a lower access level can select a product type from among a plurality of product types. While it is restricted that it can be performed only by an administrator or an engineer from a manufacturer with specialized knowledge, a general operator at a lower access level selects and operates a product from a plurality of products for which operation parameters are set. Can start. Also, initial zero point calibration is performed for each type of weighing hopper to obtain the initial zero point value, and when setting operation parameters for each product type, the initial zero value for each type of weighing hopper is associated with each product type. By setting, it becomes possible for a general operator with a lower access level to set an initial zero point value according to the type of the weighing hopper simultaneously with the selection of the type.

(2) In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the combination weigher is capable of detachably attaching a plurality of types of weighing hoppers according to the object to be weighed.
In the second operation mode, it is possible to obtain the initial zero value corresponding to each type by performing the initial zero calibration for each type of the weighing hopper, and in the third operation mode, The initial zero value acquired in the second operation mode is set in association with each of the plurality of types of the plurality of varieties, and is associated with the type selected in the first operation mode. When the initial zero value is different from the already set initial zero value associated with the product type before selection, the previously set initial zero value is set to the initial value associated with the selected product type. An initial zero value changing unit for changing to a zero value is provided.

  According to this embodiment, different types of weighing hoppers can be mounted according to the properties of the object to be weighed, and in the second operation mode by an operator with a higher access level, the initial zero point is set for each type of weighing hopper. Perform each calibration to obtain the initial zero value corresponding to each type, and in the third operation mode by the operator with the higher access level, set the operation parameters for each type of multiple types and support that type The initial zero value corresponding to the type of the weighing hopper to be set is set in association with each other. That is, in the third operation mode, an initial zero value corresponding to the type of weighing hopper is set in association with each type.

  When the initial zero value associated with the product selected in the first operation mode by the general operator with the lower access level is different from the already set initial zero value associated with the product before selection, that is, When the selected product is a product that needs to replace the weighing hopper before selection with a different type of weighing hopper, the initial zero value changing unit changes the initial zero value corresponding to the selected product.

  As a result, when a general operator with a lower access level selects a product type and the selected product type uses a weighing hopper of a different type from the weighing hopper of the product type before selection, the initial zero value is changed. The initial zero value corresponding to the weighing hopper corresponding to the selected product is changed by the unit, so that a general operator with a lower access level replaces the weighing hopper with the weighing hopper corresponding to the selected product and adjusts the zero point. The zero value does not deviate from a predetermined allowable range based on the initial zero value, and no error is notified.

  Therefore, a general operator with a lower access level can start operation immediately after adjusting the zero point, and the zero point adjustment is performed by replacing the weighing hopper with a different type of weighing hopper as in the past. Sometimes, the zero value is out of the predetermined allowable range based on the initial zero value, an error is reported, and an operator such as an administrator with a higher access level performs the initial zero calibration again for the replaced weighing hopper. There is no need to do it.

  As a result, the operating rate of the combination weigher can be increased as compared with the conventional case, and the burden on the operator such as an administrator with a higher access level can be reduced.

  (3) In another embodiment of the present invention, a notifying unit for notifying that the weighing hopper mounted on the combination weigher should be replaced with a different type of weighing hopper, and the selected in the first operation mode. A determination unit that determines whether or not the initial zero value associated with the product type is different from the already set initial zero value associated with the product type before selection; When it is determined that the values are different, notification is performed by the notification unit.

  For example, the notification unit preferably displays a message or the like, but may notify the user by printing or voice.

  According to this embodiment, when a general operator with a lower access level selects a product type corresponding to the object to be weighed in the first operation mode, the initial zero value associated with the product type is the value before the selection. If it is different from the initial zero value that has already been set, that is, if the type of the weighing hopper corresponding to the selected type is different from the type of the weighing hopper corresponding to the type before selection, a notification is given that the weighing hopper should be replaced. Therefore, it is possible to prevent an unskilled operator or the like from forgetting to replace the weighing hopper according to the type.

  (4) In the embodiment of (3), whether or not the weighing hopper has been replaced with a different type of weighing hopper based on the initial zero value and a load signal from a weight sensor that detects the weight of the weighing hopper. A replacement determination unit that determines whether or not a determination result is notified, and a determination result notification unit that notifies the determination result by the replacement determination unit may be provided.

  According to this embodiment, when a general operator with a lower access level selects a product according to the object to be weighed in the first operation mode, the selected product is a product for which the weighing hopper is to be replaced. Informing the user that the weighing hopper should be replaced. Furthermore, based on the initial zero value corresponding to the type of the weighing hopper and the weight value of the weighing hopper based on the load signal from the weight sensor, it is determined whether or not the weighing hopper has actually been replaced, and the determination result is notified. Therefore, the operator can reliably replace the weighing hopper of the type corresponding to the type according to the notification of the determination result.

  (5) In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, an operator who performs the operation in the second operation mode has a higher access level than an operator who performs the operation in the third operation mode.

  According to this embodiment, it is possible to limit the operator who performs the initial zero point calibration for setting the initial zero point value serving as the basis of weighing to the operator whose access level is higher than that of the operator who sets the product type.

  According to the present invention, by an authenticated operator with an access level higher than the first access level, the initial zero point calibration can be performed in the second operation mode, and in the third operation mode, for each of a plurality of types. The operation parameters can be set, and the operator of the first access level having a lower access level can select a product from among a plurality of products. However, a general operator with a lower access level selects a product from a plurality of products for which operation parameters are set, while restricting it to be performed only by an administrator or an engineer of a manufacturer who has specialized knowledge. Operation can be started. In addition, initial zero point calibration is performed for each type of weighing hopper to obtain the initial zero point value, and when setting the operation parameters for each type, the initial zero value for each type of weighing hopper is associated with each type. Thus, a general operator with a lower access level can set the initial zero value according to the type of the weighing hopper simultaneously with the selection of the type.

It is a schematic diagram which shows schematic structure of the combination scale which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of the combination weigher of FIG. It is a figure which shows the operation | movement procedure of the initial zero calibration in an engineer mode. It is a figure which shows the example of a login operation screen. It is a figure which shows the example of an operation screen of a user setting. It is a figure which shows the example of an operation screen of initial zero calibration. It is a figure which shows the operation | movement procedure of the kind setting in supervisor mode. It is a figure which shows the example of an operation screen of a kind setting. It is a flowchart which shows the control processing in operator mode.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a combination weigher according to an embodiment of the present invention. This combination weigher is provided with a conical main feeder 11 in the center of the upper portion thereof for radially dispersing the objects to be weighed 70 supplied from the external supply device 10 by vibration. In the main feeder 11, the object to be weighed 70 supplied from the supply device 10 to the central portion thereof is conveyed toward the peripheral portion by vibration. Around the main feeder 11, a plurality of linear feeders 12 that radially convey the objects to be weighed 70 conveyed by the main feeder 11 to the respective supply hoppers 13 by vibration are provided.

  Below each linear feeder 12, a supply hopper 13 and a weighing hopper 14 are provided correspondingly. The plurality of supply hoppers 13 and weighing hoppers 14 are arranged in a circular shape. The supply hopper 13 temporarily holds the weighing object 70 fed from the linear feeder 12, and when the weighing hopper 14 arranged below the empty hopper 14 is empty, the gate is opened and the weighing object 70 is put into the weighing hopper 14. . A collecting chute 16 and a funnel 18 are provided below the weighing hoppers 14 arranged in a circle, and a packaging machine 20 is disposed below them.

  A center base 17 supported by four legs (not shown) is disposed at the center of the combination weigher. A main feeder 11 and a linear feeder 12 are disposed on the upper surface of the center base body 17, and a supply hopper 13 and a weighing hopper 14 are detachably attached to the peripheral wall thereof. The weighing hoppers 14 are respectively supported by a plurality of weight sensors 15 in the center base body 17 and their weights are detected, and load signals output from the respective weight sensors 15 are input to the control device 21.

  The combination weigher of this embodiment includes 14 weighing heads around the center base body 17, in which the linear feeder 12, the supply hopper 13, the weighing hopper 14, and the weight sensor 15 are a set of weighing heads.

  The operation setting indicator 19 is configured by using, for example, a touch panel and has a function as an operation unit for operating a combination weigher and setting / updating operation parameters thereof, as well as an operation screen, operation speed, and combination weighing. Display values. As will be described later, the operation setting indicator 19 has a function as a notification unit that notifies that the weighing hopper 14 should be replaced.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of a control system of the combination weigher of FIG.

  The control device 21 includes a control unit 22, vibration drive circuits 26 and 27, gate drive circuits 28 and 29, and an A / D conversion circuit 30 including an amplification unit.

  The control unit 22 includes a CPU 23, a memory 24, and an I / O unit 25. The CPU 23 controls the operation of the entire combination weigher by executing an operation program stored in the memory 24. The control unit 22 has functions as an authentication unit that authenticates an operator, an operation mode switching unit that switches to an operation mode according to the access level of the authenticated operator, an initial zero value changing unit, and a determination unit, as will be described later. .

  The vibration drive circuits 26 and 27 control the vibration operations of the main feeder 11 and the linear feeders 12 based on the control signal from the control unit 22. The gate drive circuits 28 and 29 control the opening / closing operation of the gates of the supply hopper 13 and the weighing hopper 14 based on a control signal from the control unit 22. The A / D conversion circuit 30 amplifies the analog load signal from each weight sensor 15, converts it into a digital load signal, and outputs it to the control unit 22. Further, the control unit 22 is connected so as to be able to communicate with the operation setting display 19, inputs a signal from the operation setting display 19, and outputs a signal such as data to be displayed on the operation setting display 19. . Moreover, the control part 22 is connected also with the packaging machine 20 so that communication is possible.

  The control device 21 controls the overall operation of the combination weigher and performs a combination calculation for obtaining a combination of the weighing hoppers 14 from which the object 70 is to be discharged. In the control unit 22, during operation of the combination weigher, the load signal from each weight sensor 15 is amplified by the A / D conversion circuit 30, and the A / D converted digital value is read, and this digital value is read in the weighing hopper 14. Is converted into the weight value of the object 70 to be weighed, and the combination calculation is performed.

  In the combination calculation, a combined weight that is a total weight obtained by combining various weight values of the objects to be weighed 70 in each weighing hopper 14 is a weight within an allowable range (predetermined weight range) with respect to the target weight, and the target weight and One combination of the weighing hoppers 14 that minimizes the absolute value of the difference between the weighing hoppers 14 is selected, and the combination of the weighing hoppers 14 is a combination of the weighing hoppers 14 to which the objects 70 are to be discharged.

  First, the outline of the operation of the combination weigher configured as described above will be described. The operation of the combination weigher is controlled by the control device 21 as described above.

  First, the object to be weighed 70 is supplied from the supply device 10 to the central portion of the main feeder 11. The control device 21 vibrates the main feeder 11 with a predetermined operation time and vibration intensity, and supplies an object to be weighed 70 on the main feeder 11 to the linear feeder 12. Further, when the supply hopper 13 corresponding to each linear feeder 12 is empty, the control device 21 vibrates the linear feeder 12 with a predetermined operation time and vibration intensity set for each linear feeder 12, The to-be-measured object 70 is supplied to the supply hopper 13.

  Further, when the weighing hopper 14 located below each supply hopper 13 is empty, the control device 21 opens the gate of the supply hopper 13 and supplies the weighing object 70 to the weighing hopper 14. Then, as described above, the weight of the weighing object 70 in the weighing hopper 14 is calculated, a combination of the weighing hoppers 14 for discharging the weighing object 70 is obtained by a combination calculation, and a discharge request signal is input from the packaging machine. Then, the gate of the weighing hopper 14 of the determined combination is opened and closed, and the object to be weighed 70 is discharged onto the collecting chute 16. The discharged object to be weighed 70 slides down the collecting chute 16 and is fed into the packaging machine 20 through the funnel 18. The above series of operations is repeated.

  In the combination weigher of this embodiment, it is possible to select and use three types of weighing hoppers 14 having different specifications as the weighing hoppers 14 that are detachably attached to the center base 17 according to the properties of the object 70 to be weighed. it can.

  Specifically, a standard weighing hopper 14 made of a flat plate material, a dimple specification weighing hopper 14 made of a plate material on which unevenness to which the object 70 is difficult to adhere is formed, and the inner wall surface is a mesh Any one type of weighing hopper 14 can be selected and used from the three types of mesh-type weighing hoppers 14 made of fiber-like fibers. As will be described later, the type of the weighing hopper 14 to be used is set for each type together with the setting of operation parameters for each type.

  Conventionally, as described above, when the weighing hopper is changed from a standard weighing hopper to a dimple weighing hopper, for example, depending on the properties of the object to be weighed, there is a difference in weight between the weighing hoppers. Largely, when zero adjustment is performed, the zero value is out of the predetermined allowable range based on the initial zero value set by the initial zero calibration, an error is reported, and the exchanged dimple specification weighing hopper It was necessary to perform initial zero point calibration that can be performed only by a limited administrator with a high access level.

  On the other hand, in this embodiment, initial zero point calibration is performed for each type of the weighing hopper 14, and initial zero values are obtained for each type of the weighing hopper 14, respectively. When the type of the weighing hopper 14 to be used is changed, the initial zero value is changed to the initial zero value corresponding to the changed type of the weighing hopper 14. As a result, when zero adjustment is performed, it is prevented that the zero value deviates from a predetermined allowable range based on the initial zero value acquired by the initial zero calibration and an error is notified.

  Here, based on Table 1 below, each access level of this embodiment and items that can be operated in an operation mode corresponding to each access level will be described.

この実施形態では、アクセスレベルは、レベル１〜４までの４段階であり、各アクセスレベルに応じて、操作可能な項目が規定される４つの操作モードを備えている。

In this embodiment, there are four levels of access levels from level 1 to level 4, and there are four operation modes in which items that can be operated are defined according to each access level.

  The higher the access level, the more items that can be operated in the corresponding operation mode, and it becomes possible to access many operation screens.

  Specifically, in this embodiment, an operator mode corresponding to level 1 which is the lowest access level, a chief operator mode corresponding to level 2 which is an access level higher than level 1, and a level 2 There are four operation modes: a supervisor mode corresponding to level 3, which is the upper access level, and an engineer mode corresponding to level 4, which is the uppermost access level.

  Note that the first operation mode in claim 1 of the present application corresponds to the operator mode of the present embodiment, the second operation mode corresponds to the engineer mode of the present embodiment, and the third operation mode is This corresponds to the supervisor mode of this embodiment.

  Level 1 is an access level of a general operator such as a normal worker and can operate items necessary for normal operation. Items that can be operated in the operator mode corresponding to level 1 include, for example, zero adjustment before the start of daily operation, selection of the type according to the object to be weighed, starting and stopping of automatic operation, and weighing for cleaning There is a cleaning that drains everything.

  When the zero value obtained by the zero adjustment is out of the predetermined allowable range based on the initial zero value set by the initial zero calibration, an error is reported as described above. It is configured.

  The variety includes various operation parameters necessary for weighing the objects to be weighed. In this embodiment, as will be described later, an initial zero value corresponding to the type of the weighing hopper 14 to be used is associated with each type.

  Level 2 is an access level higher than Level 1. In the chief operator mode corresponding to Level 2, all items in Level 1 operator mode can be operated, and inspections for inspecting each part are performed. Items can be manipulated.

  Level 3 is an access level higher than Level 2. In the supervisor mode corresponding to Level 3, all items of Level 1 and Level 2 can be operated, and the type setting and print setting can be performed. Is possible.

  For setting the product type, the product name of the object to be weighed, various operation parameters such as operation speed, target weight, upper limit weight, operation time and vibration strength of the main feeder 11 and linear feeder 12, the supply hopper 13 and the weighing hopper 14 Includes settings such as full-open time and system number.

  In this type setting, various operation parameters necessary for operation are set for each type, and a general operator of level 1 performs weighing from a plurality of types set in the supervisor mode by the above type selection. One kind corresponding to the object 70 to be weighed can be selected and the operation can be started.

  In the supervisor mode, a print setting operation for printing statistical data or the like is possible.

  Level 4 is the highest access level. In the engineer mode corresponding to level 4, date setting, user setting, and the like are possible. This user setting can set an operator's access level, newly register an operator, delete an operator's registration, and the like.

  In this engineer mode, it is possible to set the system that is performed when the combination weigher is installed. In this system setting, the above-described initial zero point calibration, span initial calibration, and interface setting are possible.

  In the engineer mode 4, model information such as system number selection and model name can be set as model information.

  By limiting the items that can be operated by providing an access level as described above, if all operations related to the combination weigher are made possible to a general operator, for example, the measurement accuracy is reduced and set by an unskilled operator operation. This is because an unexpected situation such as erasure of data or malfunction may occur.

  Table 1 shows an example of the access level and the corresponding operation mode. The access level is not limited to four levels of level 1 to level 4, and the items that can be operated in each operation mode are also shown in the above table. It is not limited to 1. The access level may be 3 levels or less, for example, level 1 and level 2 may be a common level, or the access level may be 5 levels or more.

  In this embodiment, the initial zero point calibration performed at the time of installation and periodic inspection of the combination weigher is not performed only for the standard weighing hopper as in the prior art, but instead of the three types of weighing hoppers 14 having different specifications. Repeat for each type.

  In other words, in the engineer mode corresponding to level 4 with the highest access level, initial zero point calibration is performed for each weighing hopper 14 of standard specification, dimple specification, and mesh specification, and the initial zero value is determined for each type of weighing hopper 14. And the initial zero value for each type is stored in association with different system numbers.

  Further, in the supervisor mode corresponding to the level 3, when setting the type, the system number corresponding to the type of the weighing hopper 14 to be used is set together with the setting of the operation parameter for each type. Thus, by setting the system number corresponding to the initial zero value for each type of the weighing hopper 14 for each type, the initial zero value for each type of the weighing hopper 14 is associated with each type.

  Thus, in the operator mode corresponding to the level 1, when a general operator selects a product type different from the currently selected product type when selecting the product type, the control unit 22 having a function as a determination unit is It is determined whether or not the change of the product is accompanied by a change of the system number. When the change of the product is accompanied by the change of the system number, that is, when the change is made to the weighing hopper 14 of a different type. Notifies the operation setting display 19 as a notification unit by displaying a message or the like indicating that the weighing hopper 14 of a different type should be replaced.

  At the same time, the control unit 22 having the function as the initial zero value changing unit changes the initial zero value corresponding to the previously set type before selection to the initial zero value corresponding to the selected different types of weighing hoppers 14. change.

  Next, the initial zero point calibration in the engineer mode corresponding to level 4, the product type setting in the supervisor mode corresponding to level 3, and the product type selection in the operator mode corresponding to level 1 will be described.

  First, the initial zero calibration procedure in the engineer mode corresponding to level 4 will be described with reference to FIG.

  An operator whose access level is level 4, for example, an operator such as an administrator or a manufacturer engineer, logs in by operating the operation setting display 19 (step S1).

  In this login, the operation setting display 19 displays a login operation screen 35 shown in FIG. The operator selects a corresponding user name from user names registered in advance by user settings, and touches the connection button 36, whereby a password input window 37 shown in FIG. The operator operates the input key of the password input window 37 and inputs the password in the password input field 38. Accordingly, the control unit 22 having a function as an authentication unit determines whether or not the input password matches a password registered in advance for each user name according to the user setting. Authenticated as an authorized operator.

  The control unit 22 having a function as an operation mode switching unit switches the authenticated operator to an operation mode that enables an operation according to an access level registered in advance by user setting. That is, the control unit 22 sets the operator mode when the access level of the authenticated operator is level 1, and sets the chief operator mode when the access level of the authenticated operator is level 2, and accesses the authenticated operator. When the level is level 3, the supervisor mode is selected. When the access level of the authenticated operator is level 4, the engineer mode is selected.

  In FIG. 3, since the access level of the authenticated operator is level 4, the engineer mode is set.

  Here, the user setting performed in advance will be described. The user setting is performed in an engineer mode corresponding to level 4 as shown in Table 1 above.

  In this user setting, an operation setting display screen 19 shown in FIG. 5 is displayed on the operation setting display 19, and it is possible to perform an operator access level, new operator registration, and operator registration deletion. is there.

  The user setting operation screen 39 is provided with a user selection column 40 for selecting a user, a setting column 41 for setting a password and an access level, a type display column 42 for displaying a type, and a logout button 43. , A language selection button 44, a button 45 for returning to the previous screen, a home button 46 for returning to the automatic operation screen, and the like. In the setting column 41, a password button 50, an access level button 49, a language selection button 44, and the like are provided.

  When adding a new user, the user touches the new button 47 in the user selection column 40. When changing a registered user, the user touches the number button 48 in the user selection column 40 to call a user number input window (not shown), and operates the numeric keypad of the user number input window to input the user number. When changing the access level, the access level button 49 is touched to input the access level to be changed.

  In this way, the user name, password, and access level of the operator are registered in advance by user settings.

  Referring to FIG. 3 again, the operator who is logged in and authenticated selects the system number “1” (step S2), and attaches, for example, the standard weighing hopper 14 to the center base 17 of the combination weigher. (Step S3). Next, the operator confirms that the weighing hopper 14 is empty without an object to be weighed or a foreign object, and operates the operation setting display 19 to perform initial zero point calibration.

  In this initial zero calibration, the operation setting display 19 displays the initial zero calibration operation screen 51 shown in FIG. On the operation screen 51 for initial zero calibration, the combination weigher is graphically displayed along the circumference. In this graphic display, a weight sensor 52 for detecting the weight of an object to be weighed on the main feeder 11 is displayed at the center, and each of the weighing hoppers 14 corresponding to the respective weighing hoppers 14 constituting the 14 weighing heads is arranged along the outer periphery thereof. A scale button 53 is displayed, and the number of each scale button 53 is displayed inside thereof. On the left side of the graphic display is a weight display field 54 for displaying the weight of the weighing hopper 14 corresponding to the selected weighing button 53, a span calibration button 55, an initial zero calibration button 56, and the object to be weighed on the main feeder 11. A zero point calibration button 57 and a start button 58 of the weight sensor 52 for detecting the weight are provided.

  By touching the scale button 53 corresponding to the weighing hopper 14 that performs initial zero calibration, the scale button 53 is highlighted, and when the initial zero calibration button 56 is touched, the initial zero calibration button 56 is highlighted and the start button 58 When is touched, the initial zero point calibration of the weighing hopper 14 corresponding to the selected weighing button 53 is performed, the initial zero value is acquired, and the displayed weight in the weight display column 54 changes to “0.0”. Also, instead of each scale button 53, the initial zero point calibration can be performed collectively for all the weighing hoppers 14 corresponding to all the scales by touching the all selection button 59 in the right corner.

  In this way, the control unit 22 acquires the initial zero value for the standard weighing hopper 14 and stores it as the initial zero value of the system number “1” (step S4).

  Next, as shown in FIG. 3, the operator operates the operation setting display 19 to select the system number “2” (step S5) in the same manner as described above, and replaces the weighing hopper 14 with the standard specification. For example, the dimple specification weighing hopper 14 is attached to the center base 17 of the combination weigher (step S6). Next, the operator operates the operation setting display 19 to perform initial zero point calibration. Thus, the control unit 22 acquires the initial zero value for the dimple specification weighing hopper 14 and stores it as the initial zero value of the system number “2” (step S7).

  Next, the operator operates the operation setting display 19 to select “3” as the system number (step S8), and the operator replaces the weighing hopper 14 with mesh specifications in place of the weighing hopper 14 with dimple specifications. It attaches to the center base | substrate 17 of a combination scale (step S9). Next, the operator operates the operation setting display 19 to perform initial zero point calibration. As a result, the control unit 22 acquires the initial zero value for the weighing hopper 14 of the mesh specification, and stores it as the initial zero value of the system number “3” (step S10).

  Thus, initial zero point calibration is performed for each type of weighing hopper 14 having different specifications, and the acquired initial zero values are stored as initial zero values of the system numbers “1” to “3”. That is, each system number has an initial zero value for each type of weighing hopper. In this initial zero calibration, initial zero values are acquired for each of the three types of weighing hoppers 14, and among them, the standard specification initial zero values are initially set.

  Next, the operation procedure for setting the product type in the supervisor mode corresponding to level 3 will be described with reference to FIG.

  First, an operator whose access level is level 3, for example, a section manager or a section manager operator, logs in by operating the operation setting display 19 (step S21). At the time of login, the operator is authenticated by inputting the user name and password of the operator as described above, and the operation mode according to the authenticated operator access level, in this case, the supervisor mode is set.

  The authenticated operator selects a product type number in the product type setting (step S22). The operator sets the operation speed, target weight, upper limit value, and various operation parameters such as the linear feeder 12, the supply hopper 13, and the weighing hopper 14 for the selected product number (step S23).

  FIG. 8 shows a basic setting operation screen 60 for performing basic setting in the type setting. In the basic setting operation screen 60, a type name button 61 for calling a window for selecting a type, and an operation are displayed. Each numerical button 62 for calling up a window for inputting each parameter item is displayed, and a supply setting button for calling each operation screen of supply setting, weighing setting, and discharge setting in the product type setting. 63, a measurement setting button 64, and a discharge setting button 65 are displayed.

  On the basic setting operation screen 60, for example, speed (driving speed), target weight, upper limit value, and the like are displayed as the operating parameter items, and these items are set. Further, on the operation screen for supply setting (not shown), the operation time and vibration intensity of the main feeder 11 and the linear feeder 12 are set. On the operation screen for measurement setting (not shown), the gates of the supply hopper 13 and the weighing hopper 14 are set. Settings such as the fully open time are performed, and on the operation screen for the unloading setting (not shown), the duration of the discharging signal sent to the packaging machine 20 when the object 70 is discharged is set.

  In the basic setting operation screen 60, a save button 66 for saving the changed set value is provided below the discharge setting button 65, and a scroll bar 67 for moving the screen up and down is provided at the right end. Is displayed.

  In this type setting, as shown in FIG. 7, the operator sets the system number according to the type of the weighing hopper 14 used in the type of the selected type number. More specifically, the standard specification weighing hopper 14 sets the system number “1”, the dimple specification weighing hopper 14 sets the system number “2”, and the mesh specification weighing hopper 14 sets the system number “3” (step). S24).

  As described above, since the initial zero values of the system numbers “1” to “3” are the initial zero values for each type of the weighing hopper 14, the initial zero value for each type of the weighing hopper 14 is set in the type setting. It will be associated with each type.

  The above procedure is repeated for each necessary product type, and operation parameters and the like are set for a plurality of product types.

  Next, the processing of the control unit 22 in the operator mode accessed by a general operator whose access level is level 1 for the combination weigher in which the initial zero point calibration and product type setting are performed as described above is shown in FIG. This will be described based on a flowchart.

  First, a general operator whose access level is level 1 operates the operation setting display 19 to log in. At the time of login, the operator is authenticated by inputting the user name and password of the operator as described above, and the operation mode according to the authenticated operator access level, in this case, the operator mode is set.

  In this operator mode, the control unit 22 determines whether or not the operation screen is a product selection operation screen (step S32). The operator changes the product number as necessary on the operation screen for selecting the product. For example, when the object 70 to be weighed is changed to another object 70 to be weighed, the object to be changed is changed. The product number is changed to the product number corresponding to the product name of 70 (step S33). Note that the type selection operation screen may display the type number and the type of the weighing hopper 14 used for the type of the type number. Thus, when the operator selects a product type, the operator can grasp the type of the weighing hopper 14 used for the product type, and can determine the necessity of replacing the weighing hopper 14.

  In step S32, if the operation screen is a product selection operation screen, it is determined whether or not the product number has been changed (step S34). If the product number has not been changed, the process returns to step S32 to change the product number. If so, the operation parameter is changed to that corresponding to the product number and the process proceeds to step S36 (step S35).

  In step S36, it is determined whether or not the system number has been changed with the change of the product number. If the system number has not been changed, there is no need to replace the weighing hopper 14, and the initial zero point that has already been set is determined. Returning to step S32, assuming that there is no need to change the value. In step S36, when there is a change in the system number, the operation setting display 19 is displayed and notified so that all the weighing hoppers 14 are replaced with the weighing hoppers 14 of the type corresponding to the changed system number (step S36). S37).

  This notification is performed by displaying a message, for example, “Please replace the weighing hopper with dimple specifications”.

  At this time, the control unit 22 having a function as a replacement determination unit actually measures the initial zero value corresponding to the changed type of the weighing hopper 14, for example, the initial zero value corresponding to the dimple specification weighing hopper 14, and the actual measurement. Based on the weight value of the weighing hopper 14 to be determined, it is determined whether or not the weighing hopper 14 has been replaced with a dimple-specific weighing hopper 14. For example, a graphic display of the combination weigher shown in FIG. 6 is displayed on the operation setting indicator 19 as the determination result notification unit, and the balance 53 corresponding to the weighing hopper 14 that has not been replaced is blinked. Every time it is replaced, the blinking display of the corresponding scale 53 corresponding to the replaced weighing hopper 14 is stopped. When all the weighing hoppers 14 have been replaced, a message to that effect is displayed.

  In this way, when it becomes necessary to replace the weighing hopper 14 due to the selection of the product type, a message to that effect is displayed and the status of replacement of the weighing hopper 14 is displayed. Without forgetting to replace the hopper 14, it is possible to replace the weighing with the correct weighing hopper 14 according to the product type, and to prevent erroneous weighing.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 9, it is determined whether or not the system number data corresponding to the changed product number is “2” (step S38). If the system number data is not “2”, step S40 is performed. If the system number data is “2”, the initial zero value of the dimple specification weighing hopper 14 is set and the process returns to step S32 (step S39).

  In step S40, it is determined whether or not the system number data of the product number is “3”. If the system number data is not “3”, the initial zero value of the standard weighing hopper 14 is set and the process proceeds to step S32. Return (step S42), when the system number data is "3", the initial zero value of the mesh specification weighing hopper 14 is set and the process returns to step S32 (step S41).

  If the operation screen is not the type selection operation screen in step S32, it is determined whether or not the operation screen is a zero adjustment operation screen (step S43). If the operation screen is a zero adjustment operation screen, zero adjustment processing is performed. Then, return to Step S32 (Step S44). When the zero value when the zero adjustment process is performed is out of the predetermined allowable range based on the set initial zero value, an error is notified.

  In step S43, when the operation screen is not the zero adjustment operation screen, it is determined whether or not the operation screen is an automatic operation screen (step S45). When the operation screen is an automatic operation screen, automatic operation processing is performed. The process returns to step S32 (step S46). In step S45, when the operation screen is not an automatic operation operation screen, it is determined whether or not the operation screen is a cleaning operation screen (step S47). When the operation screen is a cleaning operation screen, a cleaning process is performed and step S32 is performed. Returning to (step S48), when it is not the cleaning operation screen, the process returns to step S32.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, when a general operator whose access level is level 1 selects a product type, and the product type is a product type that needs to change the type of the weighing hopper 14, control is performed. The unit 22 changes the already set initial zero value before selection to an initial zero value corresponding to the type of the weighing hopper to be changed, so that the zero point adjustment is performed after replacing the weighing hopper 14 after the change. The zero point value does not deviate from a predetermined allowable range based on the set initial zero point value, and no error is reported.

  As a result, when the weighing hopper is replaced with a different type of weighing hopper and the zero point adjustment is performed, the zero point value deviates from the predetermined allowable range based on the initial zero point value as in the conventional case, and an error is notified. In addition, it is not necessary to perform initial zero calibration again for the weighing hopper replaced by an operator such as a manager with a high access level, so that the operation rate of the combination weigher can be increased, and a manager with a high access level Etc. can be reduced.

  In the above embodiment, authentication is performed using a password. However, the present invention is not limited to a password, and biometric information such as a user ID, a voiceprint, a fingerprint, and an iris, or key data may be used.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Main feeder 12 Linear feeder 13 Supply hopper 14 Weighing hopper 15 Weight sensor 19 Operation setting indicator 21 Control apparatus 22 Control part 23 CPU
24 memory

Claims (5)

An operation unit operated by an operator;
An authentication unit for authenticating an operator who operates the operation unit;
An operation mode switching unit that switches an operation mode according to an access level of an authenticated operator who operates the operation unit,
The operation mode switching unit is set to a first operation mode in which a product type can be selected from a plurality of product types in which operation parameters are set in operation of the operation unit by an operator of a first access level, In operation of the operation unit by an operator with an access level higher than one access level, the second operation mode in which initial zero value calibration for obtaining an initial zero value can be performed is set, and access higher than the first access level is set. In the operation of the operation unit by the level operator, a third operation mode in which the operation parameters can be set for each of the plurality of types is provided.
A combination weigher characterized by that. The combination weigher is capable of detachably attaching a plurality of types of weighing hoppers depending on the object to be weighed.
In the second operation mode, for each type of the weighing hopper, it is possible to perform the initial zero calibration and acquire the initial zero value corresponding to each type, respectively.
In the third operation mode, the initial zero value acquired in the second operation mode is set in association with each of the plurality of product types.
When the initial zero value associated with the product type selected in the first operation mode is different from the already set initial zero value associated with the product type before selection, the initial zero value is already set. An initial zero value changing unit for changing an initial zero value to the initial zero value associated with the selected product type;
The combination weigher according to claim 1. A notification unit for notifying that the weighing hopper mounted on the combination weigher should be replaced with a different type of weighing hopper;
A determination unit for determining whether or not the initial zero value associated with the product selected in the first operation mode is different from the already set initial zero value associated with the product before selection. And
When the determination unit determines that the initial zero value is different, performs notification by the notification unit,
The combination weigher according to claim 2. A replacement determination unit that determines whether the weighing hopper has been replaced with a different type of weighing hopper, based on a load signal from a weight sensor that detects the initial zero value and the weight of the weighing hopper;
A determination result notification unit that notifies the determination result by the replacement determination unit;
The combination weigher according to claim 3. The operator who performs the operation in the second operation mode has a higher access level than the operator who performs the operation in the third operation mode.
The combination weigher according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

Images