Handling system

Abstract

Provided is a technique capable of carrying a measurement device to a subject at an appropriate timing at which a biological information measurement can be performed on the subject. A carrying system (1) includes a measurement device (20) that measures biological information of a subject; a carrying mechanism (14) that carries the measurement device; a storage device (13) that stores the biological information of the subject measured by the measurement device (20) carried by the carrying mechanism (14); a camera interface (17) and a communication interface (18) that acquire a condition of the subject; and a computing device (11) that controls the carrying mechanism (14). The computing device (11) determines whether the measurement of the biological information of the subject by the measurement device (20) can be performed in accordance with the condition of the subject, and controls the carrying mechanism (14) to carry the measurement device (20) to the subject in a case where the measurement of the biological information of the subject can be performed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to a transport system. Background Technology

[0002] In businesses and other organizations, measuring devices for employee biometrics are sometimes introduced to improve employee lifestyles, maintain health, and reduce disease risk. "Health management" has become a key term in business operations, and there is active discussion about introducing such measuring devices within companies. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a robot that controls an arm equipped with a measuring instrument for measuring a subject's vital signs, bringing the instrument close to the subject. Furthermore, Patent Document 2 discloses a robot that, upon detecting a subject whose vital signs have been measured some time ago, prompts the subject to have their vital signs measured.

[0003] Existing technical documents Patent documents Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-121353 Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-156958 Summary of the Invention The technical problem that the invention aims to solve According to the technology disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2, a robot can prompt a subject to measure biometric information. However, even if the robot finds a subject who needs to be prompted to measure biometric information, the subject may not be in a state where biometric information can be measured; for example, they may be at work or in a meeting.

[0004] This disclosure was made to solve such problems, and its purpose is to provide a technique for delivering a measuring device to a subject at an appropriate time when the subject is eligible for bioinformatics measurement.

[0005] Solution to the above technical problems According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a transport system includes: a measuring device for measuring the biometric information of a subject; a transport unit for transporting the measuring device; a storage unit for storing the biometric information of the subject measured by the measuring device transported by the transport unit; a status acquisition unit for acquiring the status of the subject; and a control unit for controlling the transport unit. The control unit determines, based on the status of the subject acquired by the status acquisition unit, whether it is possible to measure the subject's biometric information using the measuring device, and if it is possible to measure the subject's biometric information, controls the transport unit to transport the measuring device to the subject.

[0006] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a transport system includes: a transport unit for transporting items used by a user; a status acquisition unit for acquiring the status of the user; and a control unit for controlling the transport unit. The control unit determines, based on the user's status acquired by the status acquisition unit, whether the items can be transported to the user, and if it is possible to transport the items, controls the transport unit to transport the items to the user.

[0007] Invention Effects According to this disclosure, the measuring device can be delivered to the subject at an appropriate time when the subject is able to undergo bioinformatics measurement, depending on the subject's condition. Attached Figure Description

[0008]

【 Figure 1 The figure shown is an application example of the transport system according to Embodiment 1.

[0009]

Figure 2

[0010]

【 Figure 3 The image above is a diagram showing a historical information table that stores the historical information of the subjects.

[0011]

【 Figure 4 [ ] is a flowchart of the main processes performed by the conveying device.

[0012]

Figure 5

[0013] The present embodiment will now be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, the same or equivalent parts in the drawings will be assigned the same reference numerals, and their descriptions will generally not be repeated.

[0014] <Implementation Method 1> Reference Figures 1-4 The transport system 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be described.

[0015] [Examples of material handling system applications] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an application example of the transport system 1 according to Embodiment 1. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the conveying system 1 includes a conveying device 10, a measuring device 20, and cameras 30A and 30B.

[0016] The transport device 10 is a device (e.g., a robot) that transports the measuring device 20 to a subject (e.g., a user of the transport system 1). The measuring device 20 includes devices capable of measuring the subject's biometrics, such as AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products) sensors, blood pressure monitors, blood glucose meters, scales, or body composition analyzers. A camera 30A is installed indoors, such as in an office or facility, to photograph the subject present in that space. A camera 30B is mounted on the transport device 10 to photograph the subject present in the line of sight of the transport device 10. Such a transport system 1 is introduced into locations such as offices or facilities to measure the biometrics of subjects such as employees or occupants. Figure 1 In the example, the transport system 1 was introduced into an office where multiple subjects U1, U2, and U3 were employees.

[0017] AGEs (Advanced Glycation End Products) are a collective term for various compounds formed through the binding of sugars to proteins, followed by oxidation, dehydration, and condensation reactions. AGEs are believed to accumulate in the body due to lifestyle disorders, leading to age-related diseases and lifestyle-related diseases (such as diabetes and dementia). Therefore, by regularly measuring AGEs, subjects can understand their pre-disease health status before developing dementia or hypertension and take preventative measures. Furthermore, even if already diagnosed, regular AGE measurement can help subjects track disease progression. Although individual differences exist, AGEs generally change over a period of one to several weeks; therefore, it is best for subjects to measure AGEs weekly.

[0018] However, even with the introduction of measurement devices 20, such as AGEs sensors, into the office, not all subjects will necessarily show interest and actively utilize them. The presence of the measurement device 20 may be forgotten, or subjects moving to the location where the device is set up may become a factor hindering its continued use.

[0019] Therefore, in the transport system 1 according to Embodiment 1, the transport device 10 is configured to determine, for each of the multiple subjects, whether biometric information needs to be measured; if it is determined that biometric information needs to be measured, determine the subject's location as the subject of biometric information measurement, and transport the measuring device 20 to that subject's location. Furthermore, even if the measuring device 20 is transported to the subject, the subject may not be in a state where biometric information can be measured, for example, they may be working or in a meeting. Therefore, the transport device 10 is configured to transport the measuring device 20 to the subject at an appropriate time when the subject is able to measure biometric information.

[0020] Specifically, the transport device 10 stores the elapsed time since the last biometric measurement for each of the multiple subjects. The transport device 10 selects any subject from the multiple subjects and determines whether the elapsed time since the last biometric measurement for the selected subject exceeds a predetermined judgment time. If the transport device 10 determines that the elapsed time since the last biometric measurement for the subject exceeds the judgment time, it determines that the subject's biometrics need to be measured. Furthermore, "elapsed time" is not limited to hours; it can also be days, months, or years. That is, "elapsed time" includes concepts such as elapsed days, months, and years. Similarly, "judgment time" also corresponds to "elapsed time" and includes concepts such as judgment days, judgment months, and judgment years. Judgment time, for example, is the desired interval for biometric measurements; for the aforementioned AGEs, it can be set to 1 week. In addition, the transport device 10 can determine the elapsed time since the last biometric measurement based on the subject's biometric measurement history. Furthermore, the elapsed time since the last biometric measurement and the biometric measurement history are included in the historical record information 132, described later, stored in the transport device 10.

[0021] The transport device 10 can determine the positions of multiple subjects U1, U2, and U3 based on indoor images captured by camera 30A. Furthermore, the transport device 10 can capture images of the line of sight using camera 30B while moving, and determine the positions of multiple subjects U1, U2, and U3 based on the captured images. Therefore, when it is determined that biometric information needs to be measured for any subject, the transport device 10 can determine the subject's position based on images of multiple subjects U1, U2, and U3 captured by camera 30A or camera 30B.

[0022] Furthermore, the transport device 10 is not limited to images of the subject; it can also determine the subject's location based on location information obtained using GPS (Global Positioning System). Alternatively, the transport device 10 can determine the subject's location based on the subject's seating information. For example, in the case of a free-address seating system introduced in an office, the transport device 10 can obtain seating information indicating the location of the seat selected by the subject to determine the subject's location. The transport device 10 only needs to determine the subject's location based on at least one of the subject's images, the subject's location information, and the seating information set for the subject.

[0023] Furthermore, the transport device 10 is not limited to the location where the subject is located. It can also determine the vicinity of the location where the subject is located (e.g., the entrance to a conference room) or the location where the subject frequently appears (e.g., a rest area) based on the subject's photographed images or the subject's movement history, and transport the measuring device 20 to that location.

[0024] Furthermore, when the transport device 10 transports the measuring device 20 to the subject's location, it outputs a sound (e.g., a buzzing sound, a voice) to encourage the subject to use the measuring device 20 to measure biometric information. For example, the transport device 10 may output a sound that effectively encourages the subject to use the measuring device 20 to measure biometric information based on the subject's personality or expectations. The transport device 10 may obtain the subject's personality or expectations from the results of a prior questionnaire survey, or by analyzing the subject's past behavioral history.

[0025] Furthermore, when the transport device 10 moves the measuring device 20 to the location of the subject who is to be measured for bioinformatics, it can also take actions to encourage the subject to use the measuring device 20 to measure bioinformatics. Here, different subjects are more receptive to different approaches. Some subjects prefer active communication with the transport device 10, such as being taught how to use the measuring device 20 or what it can measure, while others feel uncomfortable with the transport device 10's proactive communication. Adjusting actions based on the subject's condition or personality is effective in encouraging the measurement of bioinformatics.

[0026] Therefore, the transport device 10 takes action based on the subject's personality or expectations to effectively encourage the subject to use the measurement device 20 to measure biometrics. More specifically, for subjects who are encouraged to measure biometrics through positive actions such as being touched or spoken to (e.g., easily persuaded subjects), the transport device 10 takes positive action. On the other hand, for subjects who are encouraged to measure biometrics through negative actions such as moving discreetly near the subject, the transport device 10 takes negative action. In this way, the transport device 10 acts in a way that attracts the subject's interest based on the subject's expectations, personality, or preferences, thereby encouraging the subject to measure biometrics. The transport device 10 can obtain the subject's expectations, personality, or preferences from the results of a questionnaire survey conducted on the subject beforehand, or it can determine the subject's expectations, personality, or preferences by analyzing the subject's past action history.

[0027] Furthermore, when the transport device 10 determines that it is necessary to measure the biometrics of any subject, it can determine whether the subject's current condition is suitable for measuring the biometrics. Then, if the transport device 10 determines that the subject's current condition is suitable, it can transport the measuring device 20 to the subject's location.

[0028] Each subject is more receptive to prompting with the measuring device 20 at different times. Especially in an office setting, where subjects have different schedules each day, prompting with the measuring device 20 may interfere with their work. Therefore, the transport device 10 monitors each subject's current situation and transports the measuring device 20 at a time when they are more receptive, which is effective for the use of the measuring device 20.

[0029] For example, if the subject is in a meeting, talking to someone, working, making a phone call, or sleeping, the likelihood of the subject not having their biometrics measured is high even if the measuring device 20 is moved. In such cases, the transport device 10 may not move the measuring device 20 to the subject's location. Furthermore, the situation where the subject is wearing headphones or earphones is also not considered suitable for measuring their biometrics. Therefore, the transport device 10 can identify the subject's state based on the captured image, and if the subject is wearing headphones or earphones, it determines that the situation is unsuitable and will not move the measuring device 20 to the subject. On the other hand, in situations other than those mentioned above, such as when the subject is resting, the likelihood of the subject having their biometrics measured after moving the measuring device 20 is high. In such cases, the transport device 10 may move the measuring device 20 to the subject's location.

[0030] The transport device 10 can identify the subject's current condition based on images captured by camera 30A or camera 30B, and determine whether the subject's current condition is suitable for measuring the subject's biometrics. Furthermore, the transport device 10 can also identify the subject's current condition based on a pre-acquired schedule, and determine whether the subject's current condition is suitable. For example, the transport device 10 can determine whether the current time is the subject's free time based on the subject's schedule, and if the current time is free time, transport the measuring device 20 to the subject. Additionally, the subject's schedule is included in the schedule information 133 (described later) stored in the transport device 10.

[0031] Furthermore, the schedule information 133 may also include, for example, the subject's PC (Personal Computer) usage history obtained from a schedule management tool such as OFFICE365 (registered trademark). If the transport device 10 predicts, based on the schedule information 133, that the subject's PC use will continue for a predetermined time (e.g., 30 minutes or more), it may stop transporting the measuring device 20 within that predetermined time, or transport a measuring device 20 that can be used while the subject is using the PC. For example, if it is difficult to measure AGEs while the subject is using the PC, the transport device 10 may transport a measuring device 20 for measuring blood pressure worn on the ankle to the subject. In this way, the transport device 10 can consider a combination of the current time, the subject's work content, the subject's location, and the type of measuring device 20 (depending on the required measurement time and the constraints of the measurement site) to determine whether the subject's biometrics can be measured, and transport a suitable measuring device 20 for the subject.

[0032] exist Figure 1 In the example, the transport device 10 determines when it is time to measure the biometrics of subject U1, selected from multiple subjects U1, U2, and U3, and transports the measuring device 20 to subject U1. Thus, even if subject U1 forgets it is time for biometric measurement, the transport device 10 ensures the measuring device 20 is nearby. Therefore, subject U1 will not forget to have their biometrics measured and can avoid missing the measurement opportunity. Furthermore, even if subject U1 is not interested in measuring biometrics, the transport device 10 can generate interest by bringing the measuring device 20 to their location. Moreover, subject U1 does not need to travel to the location where the measuring device 20 is installed, making it easier to continuously utilize the measuring device 20.

[0033] Furthermore, the transport device 10 determines that subjects U2 and U3 among multiple subjects U1, U2, and U3 are currently conversing. Therefore, even when it is time for subjects U2 and U3 to have their biometric measurements taken, the transport device 10 will not transport the measuring device 20 to them. As a result, the transport device 10 can increase the probability that the subjects whose measuring devices 20 are being transported will use the measuring device 20 for biometric measurements and can avoid unnecessary transport.

[0034] [Structure of the transport system] Figure 2 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the transport system 1 according to Embodiment 1. (As shown...) Figure 2 As shown, the conveying device 10 includes a computing device 11, a memory 12, a storage device 13, a conveying mechanism 14, a speaker 15, a microphone 16, a camera interface 17, a communication interface 18, and a measuring device interface 19.

[0035] The computing device 11 is an example of a "control unit," and is a computing entity (computer) that performs predetermined processing. The computing device 11 may be composed of processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro-Processing Unit), TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). Furthermore, a processor, as an example of the computing device 11, has the function of performing predetermined processing by executing a predetermined program, but these functions may also be implemented using dedicated hardware circuits such as ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The term "processor" is not limited to processors that execute processing in a stored-program manner, such as CPUs, MPUs, TPUs, or GPUs; it may also include hard-wired circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs. The computing device 11 described above can also be understood as a processing circuitry that performs predetermined processing. Furthermore, the computing device 11 may be composed of a single chip or multiple chips. Furthermore, the processor and related processing circuitry can also consist of multiple computers interconnected via wired or wireless means, such as a local area network or wireless network. Alternatively, the processor and related processing circuitry can be configured as a cloud computing computer that performs remote calculations based on input data and outputs the results to other remote devices.

[0036] The memory 12 includes volatile storage areas (e.g., working areas) for temporarily storing program code or working memory while the computing device 11 executes various programs. Examples of memory 12 include volatile memories such as DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) and SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), or non-volatile memories such as ROM (Read Only Memory) and flash memory.

[0037] Storage device 13 is an example of a "storage unit" that stores various programs or data executed by computing device 11. For example, storage device 13 stores control program 131 executed by computing device 11, as well as historical information 132 and schedule information 133 used in processing following control program 131. Furthermore, storage device 13 stores the biological information of the subject measured by measuring device 20. Additionally, the biological information of the subject acquired by transport device 10 can also be output from transport device 10 to external device 50 and stored by external device 50. Storage device 13 can be one or more non-transitory computer-readable media or one or more computer-readable storage media. Examples of storage devices 13 include HDD (Hard Disk Drive) and SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0038] Control program 131 includes a procedure that specifies the processing steps of the computing device 11 for transferring the measuring device 20 to the subject. Details regarding the transfer process will be provided in [reference needed]. Figure 4 As will be described later. The computing device 11 can transport the measuring device 20 to the subject who needs to use the measuring device 20 to measure biological information by performing a transport process in accordance with the control program 131. The control program 131 can be pre-stored in the storage device 13 or obtained from the external device 50 by communicating with the external device 50.

[0039] Historical record information 132 contains information related to the subject's biometric measurement history. Schedule information 133 contains information related to the subject's schedule. Historical record information 132 and schedule information 133 can be pre-stored in storage device 13 or retrieved from external device 50 through communication with external device 50.

[0040] The transport mechanism 14 is an example of a "transport unit" and includes mechanisms such as motors required for the operation of the transport device 10. The transport device 10, driven by the transport mechanism 14 under the control of the computing unit 11, is able to transport the measuring device 20 to the subject. Alternatively, the term "transport unit" can also refer to the entire transport device 10.

[0041] The speaker 15 outputs a sound (e.g., a buzzing sound, speech) to urge the subject to use the measuring device 20 to measure bio-information.

[0042] Microphone 16 acquires the subject's voice and other sounds. By recognizing the subject's voice acquired by microphone 16, the transport device 10 can follow the subject's instructions. For example, when a subject being transported by the measuring device 20 emits a voice indicating refusal to have their biometric information measured, the transport device 10 can recognize the voice and take action to leave the subject.

[0043] Camera interface 17 is an interface used for communication with camera 30. Camera 30 includes... Figure 1 The camera 30A shown is installed indoors in an office or facility, and the camera 30B is installed on the transport device 10. The transport device 10 can acquire data of the captured images obtained by the camera 30 through the camera interface 17. Since the camera interface 17 acquires the captured images used by the processing unit 11 to determine the condition of the subject, it can be regarded as an example of a "condition acquisition unit".

[0044] Communication interface 18 is an interface for communicating with external device 50 via network 40 through wired or wireless connection. For example, the transport device 10 communicates with external device 50 through communication interface 18 and network 40, and can obtain data such as control program 131, historical record information 132, and schedule information 133 from external device 50. Because communication interface 18 obtains schedule information 133 used by the computing device 11 to determine the condition of the subject, it can be regarded as an example of a "condition acquisition unit".

[0045] The measurement device interface 19 is an interface for communicating with the measurement device 20. For example, the transport device 10 communicates with the measurement device 20 through the measurement device interface 19 and can obtain the measurement results of the subject's biological information measured by the measurement device 20. In addition, the transport device 10 is not limited to direct communication with the measurement device 20, but can also obtain the measurement results of biological information from an external device 50 through the communication interface 18.

[0046] [Historical Record Information Table] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the historical information table 132 that stores the historical information of the subjects. (See diagram for example.) Figure 3 As shown, the historical record information table stores subject ID information, date and time information, whether or not a measurement was taken, location information, condition information, behavior information, and dialogue information.

[0047] The subject ID information includes a pre-assigned subject ID used to identify each subject. In the historical record information table, historical information such as date and time is stored in association with the subject ID.

[0048] The date and time information indicates the date (year, month, day) and time when the transport device 10 transports the measuring device 20 to the subject. This information includes not only the date and time the subject uses the measuring device 20 transported by the transport device 10 to measure biometrics, but also the date and time the transport device 10 transports the measuring device 20 to the subject but the subject does not use it to measure biometrics. Based on this date and time information, the transport device 10 can determine the date and time in the past when it transported the measuring device 20 to the subject. Thus, the historical record information 132 contains the elapsed time since the subject's last biometric measurement.

[0049] The presence or absence of measurement information indicates whether the subject used the measuring device 20, which was transported by the transport device 10, to measure biometric information. The transport device 10 can determine, based on the presence or absence of measurement information, whether the subject used the measuring device 20 to measure biometric information when it was transported to the subject in the past.

[0050] Location information indicates the location where the transport device 10 transports the measuring device 20 to the subject. The transport device 10 can determine past locations where it transported the measuring device 20 to the subject based on the location information. Figure 3 In the example, the locations where the subject may be present, such as the location where the measuring device 20 was transported by the transport device 10, include information such as the canteen, meeting room, corridor, and office.

[0051] The condition information indicates the condition of the subject when the transport device 10 transports the measuring device 20 to the subject. The transport device 10 can determine the condition of the subject in previous transports of the measuring device 20 to the subject based on the condition information. Figure 3 In the example, the subject's condition, such as during a meal, a meeting, on the way home, during a conversation, and during rest, is included in the condition information.

[0052] Behavioral pattern information indicates the behavioral patterns employed by the transport device 10 when transporting the measuring device 20 to the subject. Based on this behavioral pattern information, the transport device 10 can determine the behavioral patterns it has previously employed when transporting the measuring device 20 to the subject. Figure 3 In the example, the behavior of the transport device 10 includes both positive and negative behaviors in the behavior information. For instance, when the transport device 10 adopts a positive behavior, it will touch or talk to the subject who has been transported by the measuring device 20. When the transport device 10 adopts a negative behavior, it will move discreetly near the subject who has been transported by the measuring device 20.

[0053] The dialogue information represents the content of the speech emitted by the transport device 10 when it transports the measuring device 20 to the subject. The transport device 10 can determine the content of the speech emitted in the past when transporting the measuring device 20 to the subject based on the dialogue information. Figure 3 In the example, the lines corresponding to positive behaviors, namely patterns A1 and A2, and the lines corresponding to negative behaviors, namely patterns B1 and B2, are included in the line information.

[0054] The transport device 10 analyzes the subject's past action history by analyzing historical information stored in a historical record information table as described above, and can determine each subject's expectations, personality, or preferences. Therefore, in order to increase the probability of the subject using the measuring device 20 to measure biometric information, the transport device 10 can determine the optimal location, situation, behavior, and dialogue.

[0055] [Handling of the conveying device] Figure 4 This is a flowchart of the main processes performed by the conveying device 10. Additionally, Figure 4 The processing steps of the conveying device 10 shown are implemented by the arithmetic unit 11 executing the control program 131.

[0056] like Figure 4 As shown, the transport device 10 selects one subject from among multiple subjects receiving transport services from the measuring device 20 provided by the transport system 1 (S1). The transport device 10 selects one subject from among the multiple subjects receiving transport services from the measuring device 20. Figure 3 In the historical record information table shown, retrieve the historical record information of the selected subject (S2). As mentioned above, the historical record information includes the elapsed time since the subject last measured biometric information.

[0057] The transport device 10 determines the date and time when the subject previously used the measuring device 20 to measure biometrics based on the date and time information and whether or not measurement information was measured in the historical record information, and determines whether it is necessary to measure the subject's biometrics (S3). For example, the transport device 10 determines whether the period during which the subject did not measure biometrics (the aforementioned elapsed time) has exceeded a predetermined determination time.

[0058] If the transport device 10 determines that the predetermined determination time has not been exceeded during the period during which the subject's biometric information was not measured, and therefore it is not necessary to measure the subject's biometric information ("No" in S3), the process ends.

[0059] On the other hand, if the transport device 10 determines that the predetermined determination time has passed since the period during which the subject's biometric information was not measured has expired, and therefore it is necessary to measure the subject's biometric information ("Yes" in S3), it determines the subject's current status (S4). For example, the transport device 10 determines the subject's current status based on at least one of the subject's photographed image obtained by the camera 30 and the schedule information 133 containing the subject's pre-acquired schedule.

[0060] The transport device 10 determines, based on the subject's current condition, whether the measuring device 20 can be used to measure the subject's biometric information (S5). Specifically, the transport device 10 determines whether the subject's current condition is suitable for biometric measurement. For example, the transport device 10 determines whether the current time is the subject's free time based on the subject's schedule information 133. Alternatively, the transport device 10 can analyze the subject's past activity history by analyzing historical data such as the presence or absence of measurement information, location information, and condition information to determine whether the subject's current condition is one in which the probability of the subject using the measuring device 20 to measure biometric information is high.

[0061] The transport device 10 can also determine whether a situation is suitable for measuring the subject's biometrics by recognizing the subject's actions and state through image capture. For example, the transport device 10 can determine that it cannot measure the subject's biometrics using the measuring device 20 if the subject is in a meeting, talking to someone, working, making a phone call, or sleeping. Furthermore, the transport device 10 can determine that it cannot measure the subject's biometrics using the measuring device 20 if the subject is wearing headphones or earphones.

[0062] If the transport device 10 determines that it cannot measure the subject's biometric information using the measuring device 20 ("No" in S5), the process ends.

[0063] On the other hand, when the transport device 10 determines that it is possible to measure the subject's biometric information using the measuring device 20 ("Yes" in S5), it determines the subject's location (S6). For example, the transport device 10 determines the subject's location based on an image of the subject obtained by the camera 30.

[0064] The transport device 10 determines the behavioral patterns and speech patterns (S7) used to encourage the subject to use the measuring device 20 to measure biometric information. For example, the transport device 10 analyzes the subject's past action history by analyzing behavioral pattern information and dialogue information contained in historical record information, and determines the behavioral patterns and speech patterns that can increase the probability of the subject using the measuring device 20 to measure biometric information.

[0065] The transport device 10 transports the measuring device 20 to the subject (S8) and ends the process. After transporting the measuring device 20 to the subject, the transport device 10 acts according to the behavior determined in S7 and outputs the speech determined in S7. Thus, the subject is prompted to use the measuring device 20 transported by the transport device 10 to measure biometric information.

[0066] As described above, when it is necessary to measure the subject's biometric information, the transport device 10 transports the measuring device 20 to the subject's location, so the subject does not need to move to the location where the measuring device 20 is installed. Furthermore, since the measuring device 20, transported by the transport device 10, periodically appears in the subject's field of vision and its presence is demonstrated by the transport device 10, even subjects who are not interested in using the measuring device 20 or who have forgotten its existence can be encouraged to use it. Thus, subjects can continuously use the measuring device 20.

[0067] Furthermore, the transport device 10 can transport the measuring device 20 to the subject at an appropriate time when the subject is ready to have their biometrics measured, based on the subject's condition. This increases the probability that the subject will use the measuring device 20 to measure their biometrics.

[0068] Therefore, by continuously measuring their own biometrics using the measuring device 20, subjects can understand their pre-disease health status and take preventative measures even before they develop the disease. Furthermore, even if a subject is already ill, regularly measuring their biometrics using the measuring device 20 allows them to monitor the progression of the disease.

[0069] [Variation Example] The transport system 1 according to Embodiment 1 has been described above. However, the transport device 10 is not limited to the transport measuring device 20, and can also transport items other than the measuring device 20 used by the user. For example, items used by the user include snacks, health foods, or health products that can be purchased in the office. In addition, items used by the user may also include questionnaires for users to answer questions, or PCs that display questionnaire screens.

[0070] The transport device 10 involved in the modified example can determine whether it is possible to transport the transported item to the user based on the user's situation, and if it is determined that it is possible to transport the transported item to the user, it determines the user's location and transports the transported item to the user's location.

[0071] Therefore, when the conveying device 10 determines that it can deliver the item to the user, it moves the item to the user's location. Thus, the user does not need to move to the location where the item is installed, and even users who are not interested in using the item can be encouraged to do so. Furthermore, the user can receive the item at an appropriate time, such as during free time. This allows the user to continuously use the item.

[0072] <Implementation Method 2> Reference Figure 5 The transport system 1A according to Embodiment 2 will be described. Furthermore, regarding the transport system 1 according to Embodiment 2, only the parts that differ from the transport system 1 according to Embodiment 1 will be described, while other parts will be omitted.

[0073] Figure 5 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the transport system 1A according to Embodiment 2. (See diagram below.) Figure 5 As shown, the conveying system 1A includes a conveying device 10A, a measuring device 20, a camera 30, and a control device 100.

[0074] The control device 100 is a server device installed in an office or facility, or a cloud-based server device. The control device 100 includes a computing unit 111, a memory 112, a storage device 113, a camera interface 117, and a communication interface 118.

[0075] The computing device 111 is an example of a "control unit," and is a computing entity (computer) that performs predetermined processing. The computing device 111 may be composed of processors such as CPUs, MPUs, TPUs, or GPUs. Furthermore, a processor, as an example of the computing device 111, has the function of performing predetermined processing by executing a predetermined program, but these functions may also be implemented partially or entirely using dedicated hardware circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs. The term "processor" is not limited to processors that execute processing in a stored-program manner, such as CPUs, MPUs, TPUs, or GPUs; it may also include hard-wired circuits such as ASICs or FPGAs. The computing device 111 described above can also be understood as a processing circuitry that performs predetermined processing. Furthermore, the computing device 111 may be composed of a single chip or multiple chips.

[0076] The memory 112 includes volatile storage areas (e.g., working areas) for temporarily storing program code or working memory while the computing device 111 executes various programs. Examples of memory 112 include volatile memories such as DRAM and SRAM, or non-volatile memories such as ROM and flash memory.

[0077] Storage device 113 is an example of a "storage unit" that stores various programs or data executed by computing device 111. For example, storage device 113 stores control program 1131 executed by computing device 111, as well as historical information 1132 and schedule information 1133 used in processing following control program 1131. Furthermore, storage device 113 stores the biological information of the subject measured by measuring device 20. Specifically, control device 100 acquires biological information from transport device 10A and stores the acquired biological information of the subject. Additionally, the biological information of the subject acquired by transport device 10A can also be output from transport device 10A to external device 50 and stored by external device 50. Storage device 113 can be one or more non-transitory computer-readable media or one or more computer-readable storage media. Examples of storage devices 113 include HDDs and SSDs.

[0078] The control program 1131 includes a program that specifies the processing steps that the computing device 111 performs to control the transport device 10A. By following the processing in the control program 1131, the computing device 111 can control the transport device 10A to transport the measuring device 20 to the subject who needs to use the measuring device 20 to measure biological information. The control program 1131 can be pre-stored in the storage device 113 or obtained from the external device 50 through communication with the external device 50.

[0079] Historical information 1132 and Figure 2 The historical record information 132 shown also contains information related to the subject's biometric measurement history. Historical record information 1132 is stored... Figure 3 The historical record information table shown includes schedule information 1133. Figure 2 The historical record information 1132 shown also includes information related to the subject's schedule. The historical record information 1132 and the schedule information 1133 can be pre-stored in the storage device 113 or obtained from the external device 50 by communicating with the external device 50.

[0080] Camera interface 117 is an interface used for communication with camera 30. Camera 30 includes... Figure 1 The camera 30A shown is installed indoors in an office or facility, and the camera 30B is installed on the transport device 10. The control device 100 can acquire data of the captured images obtained by the camera 30 through the camera interface 117. Since the camera interface 117 acquires the captured images used by the processing device 111 to determine the condition of the subject, it can be regarded as an example of a "condition acquisition unit".

[0081] The communication interface 118 is an interface for communicating with other devices via a wired or wireless connection through a network 40. For example, the control device 100 communicates with the transport device 10A via the communication interface 118 and the network 40, and is able to control the transport device 10A. Furthermore, the control device 100 communicates with an external device 50 via the communication interface 118 and the network 40, and is able to acquire data such as the control program 1131, historical data 1132, and schedule information 1133. Because the communication interface 118 acquires the schedule information 1133 used by the computing device 111 to determine the subject's condition, it can be considered an example of a "condition acquisition unit".

[0082] In the transport system 1A configured as described above, the control device 100 executes actions based on historical record information 1132. Figure 4 The process shown is similar to the one described above. Specifically, the control device 100 determines whether it is necessary to measure the subject's biometrics, and if it is determined that it is necessary, it determines the subject's current status based on the subject's photographed image or schedule information 1133 containing the subject's pre-acquired schedule. Based on the subject's current status, the control device 100 determines whether the subject's biometrics can be measured using the measuring device 20. If it is determined that the subject's biometrics can be measured using the measuring device 20, the control device 100 determines the subject's location. Furthermore, the control device 100 determines the behavior and speech of the transport device 10A that can increase the probability of the subject using the measuring device 20 to measure biometrics. The control device 100 sends various information, including the determined subject location, behavior, and speech, along with control information for moving the transport device 10A to the subject's location, to the transport device 10A. The transport device 10A follows the control information from the control device 100 and transports the measuring device 20 to the subject.

[0083] The conveying system 1 and the conveying device 10 involved in Embodiment 1 perform the following functions: Figure 4 The control device 100 is also configured to perform other detailed processes included in the processing.

[0084] As described above, when it is necessary to measure the subject's biometric information, the control device 100 controls the transport device 10 to transport the measuring device 20 to the subject's location. Therefore, the subject does not need to move to the location where the measuring device 20 is installed, and even subjects who are not interested in using the measuring device 20 can be encouraged to use it. Thus, the subject can continuously use the measuring device 20.

[0085] Furthermore, the control device 100 can control the transport device 10A to transport the measuring device 20 to the subject at an appropriate time when the subject is able to perform biometric measurements, based on the subject's condition. This increases the probability that the subject will use the measuring device 20 to measure biometric information.

[0086] [Variation Example] The transport system 1A according to Embodiment 2 has been described above. However, the transport device 10A is not limited to transporting the measuring device 20 to the subject's position. It can also transport items other than the measuring device 20 used by the user. The items used by the user are the same as those in the variations according to Embodiment 1, including items such as snacks, health foods, health products, questionnaires for answering questionnaires, or PCs for displaying questionnaire images that can be purchased in the office.

[0087] The control device 100 involved in the modified example can determine whether it is possible to move the object to the user based on the user's situation, and if it is determined that it is possible to move the object to the user, it determines the user's location and controls the moving device 10A to move the object to the user's location.

[0088] Therefore, when the control device 100 determines that it is possible to deliver the item to the user, it controls the transport device 10 to move the item to the user's location. Thus, the user does not need to move to the location where the item is placed, and even users who are not interested in using the item can be encouraged to do so. Furthermore, the user can receive the item at an appropriate time, such as during free time. This allows the user to continuously utilize the item.

[0089] <Method> Those skilled in the art will understand that the above-described exemplary embodiments are specific examples of the following approaches.

[0090] (Item 1) A transport system according to one method comprises: a measuring device for measuring the biometric information of a subject; a transport unit for transporting the measuring device; a storage unit for storing the biometric information of the subject measured by the measuring device transported by the transport unit; a status acquisition unit for acquiring the status of the subject; and a control unit for controlling the transport unit. The control unit determines, based on the status of the subject acquired by the status acquisition unit, whether it is possible to measure the subject's biometric information using the measuring device, and if it is possible to measure the subject's biometric information, controls the transport unit to transport the measuring device to the subject.

[0091] According to the transport system described in item 1, the measuring device can be transported to the subject at an appropriate time when the subject is able to perform bioinformatics measurements, depending on the subject's condition.

[0092] (Item 2) In the transport system described in Item 1, the status acquisition unit acquires the subject's schedule information as the subject's status. Based on the schedule information, the control unit determines whether the current time is the subject's free time, and if the current time is free time, controls the transport unit to transport the measuring device to the subject.

[0093] According to the transport system described in item 2, the measuring device can be transported to the subject during the subject's free time based on the subject's schedule information.

[0094] (Item 3) In the transport system described in Item 1 or Item 2, the storage unit stores the elapsed time since the subject's last biometric measurement. The control unit also determines, based on the elapsed time, whether the subject's biometrics can be measured using the measuring device.

[0095] According to the transport system described in item 3, it is possible to appropriately determine whether it is necessary to measure the user's biometrics based on the elapsed time since the subject last measured biometrics.

[0096] (Item 4) In the transport system described in Item 3, the control unit determines whether the elapsed time has exceeded the determination time, and if the elapsed time has exceeded the determination time, controls the transport unit to transport the measuring device to the subject.

[0097] According to the transport system described in item 4, users can periodically measure biometric information.

[0098] (Item 5) In the transport system described in any one of items 1 to 4, the condition acquisition unit acquires an image of the subject as the subject's condition. Based on the image, the control unit determines whether the subject's condition is suitable for measuring the subject's biometric information, and if the subject's condition is suitable, controls the transport unit to transport the measuring device to the subject.

[0099] According to the transport system described in item 5, the measuring device can be transported to the subject based on the captured image of the subject, at a time when the subject's condition is suitable for measuring the subject's biometric information.

[0100] (Item 6) In any of the transport systems described in Items 1 to 5, the control unit determines that the subject's condition is unsuitable when the subject is wearing a headset or earphone.

[0101] According to the transport system described in item 6, if the subject is wearing a headset or earphone, it is possible to determine that the subject's condition is not suitable and therefore the measuring device is not transported to the subject.

[0102] (Item 7) In any of the transport systems described in Items 1 to 6, the transport unit outputs a sound to urge the subject to use the measuring device to measure bio-information.

[0103] According to the transport system described in item 7, it is possible to use sound to urge the user to measure bio-information.

[0104] (Item 8) In the transport system described in Item 7, the transport unit outputs a voice appropriate to the subject, used to urge the subject to use the measuring device to measure bio-information.

[0105] According to the transport system described in item 8, it is possible to use voice to urge the user to measure biometric information.

[0106] (Item 9) In any of the transport systems described in Items 1 to 8, the transport unit takes actions appropriate to the subject to urge the subject to use the measuring device to measure bio-information.

[0107] According to the transport system described in item 9, it is possible to prompt users to measure biometric information through action.

[0108] (Item 10) In any of the transport systems described in items 1 to 9, the transport unit determines the position of the subject based on at least one of the subject's photographed image, the subject's position information, and the seat information set for the subject.

[0109] According to the transport system described in item 10, the position of the subject can be appropriately determined.

[0110] (Item 11) A transport system described in any one of items 1 to 10, comprising a transport device for transporting the measuring device. The transport device includes the transport section, the storage section, the status acquisition section, and the control section.

[0111] According to the transport system described in item 11, the transport device can automatically determine whether biometric measurements can be performed based on the subject's condition, and transport the measuring device to the subject at an appropriate time when the subject is eligible for biometric measurements.

[0112] (Item 12) A transport system described in any one of items 1 to 10, comprising: a transport device for transporting the measuring device; and a control device for controlling the transport device. The transport device includes the transport section. The control device includes the storage section, the status acquisition section, and the control section.

[0113] According to the transport system described in item 12, the transport device is able to follow the control of the control device to transport the measuring device to the subject at an appropriate time when the subject can perform bioinformatics measurements.

[0114] (Item 13) A transport system according to one method comprises: a transported object for use by a user; a transport unit for transporting the transported object to the user; a status acquisition unit for acquiring the status of the user; and a control unit for controlling the transport unit. The control unit determines whether the transported object can be transported to the user based on the status of the user acquired by the status acquisition unit, and if the transported object can be transported, controls the transport unit to transport the transported object to the user.

[0115] According to the transport system described in item 13, the transported items can be transported to the user at an appropriate time when the transported items can be transported, depending on the user's situation.

[0116] (Item 14) The transport system described in Item 13 includes a transport device for transporting the transported object. The transport device includes the transport unit, the status acquisition unit, and the control unit.

[0117] According to the transport system described in item 14, the transport device can determine whether it is possible to transport the object based on the user's situation, and transport the object to the user at an appropriate time when it is possible to transport the object.

[0118] (Item 15) The transport system described in Item 13 includes: a transport device for transporting the transported object; and a control device for controlling the transport device. The transport device includes the transport section. The control device includes the status acquisition section and the control section.

[0119] According to the transport system described in item 15, the transport device is able to transport the transported item to the user at an appropriate time when it is possible to transport the transported item, in accordance with the control of the control device.

[0120] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered illustrative rather than limiting in all respects. The scope of the invention is defined by the claims rather than the foregoing description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims.

[0121] [Symbol Explanation] 1.1A Material Handling System 10,10A Transport Device 11,111 Computing device 12,112 memory 13,113 Storage devices 14. Handling Mechanism 15 speakers 16 microphones 17,117 Camera Interface 18,118 Communication Interfaces 19. Measuring device interface 20 Measuring devices 30, 30A, 30B cameras 40 Network 50 External Devices 100 Control device 131,1131 Control Program Historical information for 132,1132 Schedule information for 133,1133.

Claims

1. A handling system, characterized in that, have: A measuring device used to measure the biological information of the subject; The transport unit transports the measuring device. The storage unit stores the biological information of the subject measured by the measuring device transported by the transport unit; The condition acquisition unit acquires the condition of the subject; as well as Control unit, controls the conveying unit, The control unit determines whether the subject's biometric information can be measured using the measuring device based on the subject's condition obtained by the condition acquisition unit. If the subject's biometric information can be measured, the control unit controls the transport unit to transport the measuring device to the subject.

2. The handling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The status acquisition unit acquires the subject's schedule information as the subject's status. The control unit determines whether the current time is the subject's free time based on the schedule information. If the current time is the subject's free time, the control unit controls the transport unit to transport the measuring device to the subject.

3. The handling system according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterized in that, The storage unit stores the elapsed time since the subject's last biometric measurement. The control unit also determines, based on the elapsed time, whether the subject's biometric information can be measured using the measuring device.

4. The handling system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The control unit determines whether the elapsed time has exceeded the determination time. If the elapsed time has exceeded the determination time, the control unit controls the transport unit to transport the measuring device to the subject.

5. The handling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The condition acquisition unit acquires images of the subject as the subject's condition. The control unit determines whether the subject's condition is suitable for measuring the subject's bio-information based on the captured image. If the subject's condition is suitable, the control unit controls the transport unit to transport the measuring device to the subject.

6. The handling system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The control unit determines that the subject's condition is not suitable when the subject is wearing headphones or earphones.

7. The handling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transport unit outputs a sound to urge the subject to use the measuring device to measure biological information.

8. The handling system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The transport unit outputs a voice message suitable for the subject, used to urge the subject to use the measuring device to measure bio-information.

9. The handling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transport unit takes actions appropriate to the subject to urge the subject to use the measuring device to measure bio-information.

10. The handling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The transport unit determines the subject's position based on at least one of the subject's photographed image, the subject's location information, and the seat information set for the subject.

11. The handling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, A transport device equipped with a transporter for transporting the measuring device. The conveying device includes the conveying unit, the storage unit, the status acquisition unit, and the control unit.

12. The handling system according to claim 1, characterized in that, have: A transport device for transporting the measuring device; and Control device, controls the conveying device. The conveying device includes the conveying unit. The control device includes the storage unit, the status acquisition unit, and the control unit.

13. A handling system, characterized in that, have: The moving department is responsible for moving items used by users. The status acquisition unit acquires the status of the user; and Control unit, controls the conveying unit, The control unit determines whether the transported item can be moved to the user based on the user's status obtained by the status acquisition unit. If the transported item can be moved, the control unit controls the transport unit to move the transported item to the user.

14. The handling system according to claim 13, characterized in that, Equipped with a transport device for transporting the transported object. The conveying device includes the conveying unit, the status acquisition unit, and the control unit.

15. The handling system according to claim 13, characterized in that, have: A transport device for transporting the transported object; and Control device, controls the conveying device. The conveying device includes the conveying unit. The control device includes the status acquisition unit and the control unit.

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