Support apparatus, support method, and support program

Abstract

To improve efficiency of office management.SOLUTION: A support apparatus 4 includes: a worker information acquisition unit 100a which acquires first worker information related to state of a worker in an office; a detection unit 102 which detects a sign of a problem or the problem in the office on the basis of the first worker information; a generation unit 104 which generates support information for preventing or eliminating the problem detected by the detection unit 102; and an output unit 106 which outputs the support information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an assistance device, an assistance method, and an assistance program. [Background technology]

[0002] There have been technologies for supporting the work of employees. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a management system that stores the behavioral history of each employee and extracts behavioral characteristics specific to each employee from the behavioral history. The management system compares the extracted behavioral characteristics with the employee's behavioral data, and if the behavioral characteristics are outside of an appropriate range, it detects the behavioral characteristics as anomalous behavior data and sends an alert message to the employee and related parties. This makes it possible for the management system to detect and address mental health conditions early based on the behavioral characteristics of each employee. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-123579 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The technology described in Patent Document 1 does not sufficiently improve the efficiency of office operations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A support device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a worker information acquisition unit that acquires first worker information regarding a worker's status within the office, a detection unit that detects signs of malfunction or malfunctions within the office based on the first worker information, a generation unit that generates support information for preventing or resolving the malfunction detected by the detection unit, and an output unit that outputs the support information.

[0006] Another aspect of the support method of the present disclosure includes having a computer perform the steps of acquiring first worker information regarding a worker's condition in the office, detecting signs of a malfunction or a malfunction in the office based on the first worker information, generating support information for preventing or resolving the malfunction detected in the detection step, and outputting the support information.

[0007] Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a support program that causes a computer to function as a worker information acquisition means for acquiring first worker information regarding a worker's condition within the office, a detection means for detecting signs of malfunction or malfunctions within the office based on the first worker information, a generation means for generating support information for preventing or resolving the malfunctions detected by the detection means, and an output means for outputting the support information. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present disclosure, the operation of an office can be made more efficient. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram of the system 1. [Diagram 2] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of the system 1. [Diagram 3] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the support device 4. FIG. [Figure 4] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the support device 4. FIG. [Diagram 5] 10 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation of the support device 4. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a display screen of the manager terminal device 3b. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an example of a display screen of a provider terminal device 3c. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of hardware of the support device 4. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] <1. Overview of the support device 4> With reference to FIG. 1, an overview of the support device 4 according to the present disclosure will be described. First, the support device 4 acquires worker information related to the status of the worker in the office (S1). The worker information includes, for example, information related to the worker's behavior and facial expression. Next, the support device 4 detects a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction in the office based on the acquired worker information (S2). A malfunction or a sign of a malfunction in the office is, for example, damage to fixtures installed in the office and out of stock of office supplies. Next, the support device 4 outputs support information for preventing or resolving the detected malfunction (S3). The support information is transmitted, for example, to the manager of the office (hereinafter simply referred to as the "manager").

[0011] The support device 4 can detect malfunctions or signs of malfunctions in the office and allow the manager to take measures to deal with the malfunctions. This reduces the cost of operating the office. In addition, workers can work in an office with fewer malfunctions, improving worker productivity.

[0012] In addition, the term "office" in this disclosure includes a place or space for carrying out business. An office is constructed, for example, in a building, a floor in a building, a room in a floor, or a section in a room. Types of offices include, for example, open space type offices, private room type offices, and flexible space type offices. Business carried out in an office includes, for example, business related to product design and research and development, business related to document creation and editing, business related to communication by telephone and email, business related to preparation and progress of meetings, business related to cleaning in the office, business related to installation and movement of equipment, and the like. An office is equipped with facilities, fixtures, equipment, and the like (hereinafter collectively referred to as "objects") for carrying out business.

[0013] In the present disclosure, a "worker" includes a person who performs work in an office. Examples of workers include those who manage a company, those who conduct research and development, those who plan new businesses, those who perform clerical work, those who conduct sales activities, and those who perform accounting work. A worker can also be referred to as, for example, an employee, a staff member, or a laborer. In the present disclosure, a "worker" may refer to multiple workers or a single worker.

[0014] In this disclosure, the "state of a worker in the office" includes the worker's behavior and the worker's physical and psychological state.

[0015] In the present disclosure, the term "office trouble" includes troubles that occur in the office and cause a worker to perform work in the office (hereinafter referred to as "work troubles"). In one embodiment, work troubles include events that may reduce a worker's productivity in the office (for example, the amount of results achieved relative to the worker's working hours, and the worker's concentration and immersion in the work, etc.). In one embodiment, work troubles include events that may impair the comfort of a worker performing work in the office. Examples of office troubles include damage to objects, lack of replenishment of stationery and other equipment, breakdown of electrical equipment in the office, and obstruction of communication in the office. Note that work troubles are not limited to events that make it impossible to perform work, but include events that require extra effort and cost to perform work, and events that reduce the efficiency of performing the work.

[0016] An office malfunction includes an event that may cause an increase in the number of workers experiencing work-related problems as a result of the malfunction, compared to before the malfunction occurred. For example, if the state of the office changes from a first state in which 10 workers are experiencing work-related problems to a second state in which 20 workers are experiencing work-related problems, the second state can be said to be a state in which a malfunction is occurring in the office.

[0017] An office malfunction includes an event in which the occurrence of the malfunction causes a more serious disruption to business operations than before the malfunction occurred. For example, if the state of the office changes from a first state in which a worker's productivity has decreased by 10% to a second state in which the worker's productivity has decreased by 30%, the second state can be said to be a state in which a malfunction has occurred in the office.

[0018] In the present disclosure, "signs of malfunctions in an office" include events that may occur as a precursor to the occurrence of a malfunction. A state in which signs of malfunctions are occurring in an office includes a state in which there is a high probability of business disruption occurring in the future. Note that signs of malfunctions in an office are not limited to those that can be detected by human senses (sight, hearing, etc.), but may be those that can be detected by statistical processing on a computer, for example. Signs of malfunctions in an office include, for example, deterioration of objects over time, the expiration of the useful life of objects, abnormal sounds from fixtures and equipment, reduction in replenished supplies due to use, poor cleaning of equipment, and temperature changes in the office.

[0019] In this disclosure, "resolving the problem" includes reducing the number of workers experiencing operational problems. For example, if the productivity of 50 out of 100 workers declined during the problem, and the number of workers experiencing productivity declines to 40 as a result of the manager taking measures, the measures are an example of resolving the problem.

[0020] In this disclosure, "resolving a problem" includes reducing business interruptions. For example, if a worker's productivity decreases by 50% while a problem occurs, and the manager takes measures to improve the decrease in the worker's productivity to 40%, the measures are an example of resolving a problem.

[0021] In this disclosure, "preventing malfunctions" includes reducing the possibility of future business disruption. For example, when there are few supplies left in an office (i.e., when there is a high probability that supplies will run out in the future and business disruption will occur), ordering additional supplies is an example of preventing malfunctions. Preventing malfunctions can also be said to be taking measures against the signs of malfunctions.

[0022] In this disclosure, "improving the efficiency of office operations" includes reducing at least a portion of the money, personnel, time, and labor required to operate the office.

[0023] <2. Functional configuration of System 1> The functions of the information acquisition device 2, the terminal device 3, and the support device 4 included in the system 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0024] [Information acquisition device 2] The information acquisition device 2 is installed in an office and acquires information about workers and / or objects in the office. In one embodiment, the information acquisition device 2 includes a position sensor and acquires information about the position of itself and the workers and / or objects. In one embodiment, a timestamp is associated with the information acquired by the information acquisition device 2. In one embodiment, the information acquisition device 2 transmits the acquired information to the support device 4. That is, the information acquisition device 2 may report to the support device 4 where, when, and what kind of workers and objects are present in the office.

[0025] In one embodiment, the system 1 includes, as the information acquisition device 2, a fixture mounting device 2a, an imaging device 2b, and a voice input device 2c.

[0026] The fixture mounting device 2a is a device that is mounted on a fixture in an office and is equipped with sensors for detecting damage, failure, or signs of these in the fixture. The fixture mounting device 2a is equipped with, for example, a pressure sensor, a bending sensor, a strain sensor, a vibration sensor, and an acceleration sensor. In one embodiment, the fixture mounting device 2a transmits information related to the sensor measurement values ​​to the support device 4. The information related to the sensor measurement values ​​is, for example, the sensor measurement values ​​themselves (so-called raw data), statistics of the sensor measurement values, and abnormal values ​​of the sensor measurement values.

[0027] The fixture mounting device 2a may be attached, for example by sticking, onto the surface of the fixture, or may be embedded inside the fixture.

[0028] The imaging device 2b is a device that generates image information by capturing images of the inside of an office. In one embodiment, the imaging device 2b captures images of workers and furniture in the office. The image information may be related to still images or video images. The imaging device 2b is, for example, an RGB camera, an infrared camera, or a video camera.

[0029] The voice input device 2c is a device that generates voice information by acquiring voices in the office. In one embodiment, the voice input device 2c acquires the voices of workers. In one embodiment, the voice input device 2c acquires sounds made by furniture (for example, abnormal sounds such as creaking). The voice input device 2c is a microphone or the like.

[0030] The imaging device 2b and the voice input device 2c may be fixed to a wall, a ceiling, or the like in the office. The imaging device 2b and the voice input device 2c may be installed in a portable state in the office. The imaging device 2b and the voice input device 2c may be devices provided in a worker terminal device 3a described later. The imaging device 2b and the voice input device 2c may be configured as the same device.

[0031] [Terminal device 3] The worker terminal device 3a is a device used by a worker. The manager terminal device 3b is a device used by a manager. The contractor terminal device 3c is a device used by a contractor (hereinafter simply referred to as a "contractor") who sells or repairs objects. Hereinafter, when there is no particular distinction between the worker terminal device 3a, the manager terminal device 3b, and the contractor terminal device 3c, they will be collectively referred to as the terminal device 3. In one embodiment, the terminal device 3 is a client device in the case where the support device 4 is a server device. The terminal device 3 is, for example, a smartphone, a personal computer, a smart watch, a tablet terminal, etc.

[0032] In the following description, the terminal device 3 is assumed to be a smartphone. That is, a worker can grasp various pieces of information by looking at the display screen of the worker terminal device 3a. In addition, a worker can operate the worker terminal device 3a by pressing a touch panel, which is also the display screen of the worker terminal device 3a. Similarly, a manager and a contractor can grasp various pieces of information by looking at the display screens of the manager terminal device 3b and contractor terminal device 3c, respectively, and can operate the manager terminal device 3b and contractor terminal device 3c by pressing the touch panel.

[0033] [Support device 4] The support device 4 is a device that outputs support information. In one embodiment, the support device 4 acquires various information from the information acquisition device 2, detects a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction in the office based on the various information, and transmits support information for preventing or resolving the malfunction to the terminal device 3. A specific configuration of the support device 4 will be described below.

[0034] The support device 4 includes a control unit 10, a storage unit 14, a network interface unit 16, and a bus 18. The control unit 10, the storage unit 14, and the network interface unit 16 are electrically connected via the bus 18.

[0035] (Storage unit 14) The storage unit 14 stores various types of information acquired from the information acquisition device 2. The various types of information acquired from the information acquisition device 2 include, for example, information on sensor measurement values ​​acquired from the fixture mounting device 2a, image information acquired from the imaging device 2b, and audio information acquired from the audio input device 2c. The storage unit 14 also stores various programs executed by the control unit 10, which will be described later.

[0036] (Control unit 10) The control unit 10 executes various programs stored in the storage unit 14 to function as an acquisition unit 100, a detection unit 102, a generation unit 104, and an output unit 106.

[0037] -Acquisition part 100- The acquisition unit 100 acquires information about workers and objects from the information acquisition device 2. In the present disclosure, acquiring information includes making the information processable in the control unit 10. Acquiring information includes, for example, reading the information from the storage unit 14, receiving the information from another device, and generating the information as a result of calculation in the control unit 10.

[0038] In one embodiment, the acquisition unit 100 includes a worker information acquisition unit 100a and an object information acquisition unit 100b.

[0039] ~Worker information acquisition unit 100a~ The worker information acquisition unit 100a acquires information about the worker's status in the office (hereinafter referred to as "worker information"). The worker information includes, for example, information about the worker's facial expression, voice (including communication with other workers), position (including the time spent in a specific area), activity mode (including the use of objects), and psychological state in the office.

[0040] In one embodiment, the worker information acquisition unit 100a acquires worker information about a worker based on image information generated by the imaging device 2b by capturing an image of the worker. For example, the worker information acquisition unit 100a acquires worker information indicating that the worker is using a specific object based on image information of the worker using the specific object.

[0041] In one embodiment, the worker information acquisition unit 100a acquires worker information about a worker based on voice information generated by acquiring the voice of the worker using the voice input device 2c. The worker information acquisition unit 100a acquires worker information indicating that communication between workers has occurred based on voice information related to the voice of a worker talking to another worker, for example.

[0042] In one embodiment, the worker information includes a timestamp corresponding to the state of the worker, i.e., the worker information may include information indicating what state the worker is in and when.

[0043] In one embodiment, the worker information includes first worker information used as judgment data for a learning model described later, and second worker information used as learning data.

[0044] -Object information acquisition unit 100b- The object information acquiring unit 100b acquires information on the state of the object (hereinafter referred to as "object information"). The object information includes, for example, information on the object's damage, malfunction, deformation, whether it can be operated, whether it makes abnormal noise, the number of times it has been used, the frequency of use, whether it is being used, etc. The object information includes, for example, information indicating when the object has been used and in what state it is.

[0045] In one embodiment, the object information acquiring unit 100b acquires object information about the fixture based on information about the measurement value of the sensor of the fixture mounting device 2a. For example, the object information acquiring unit 100b acquires object information indicating that the fixture has not been used during a predetermined period based on the fact that there is no change in the measurement value of the sensor of the fixture mounting device 2a over the predetermined period.

[0046] In one embodiment, the object information acquisition unit 100b acquires object information related to an object based on image information generated by the imaging device 2b by capturing an image of the object. For example, the object information acquisition unit 100b acquires object information indicating that the object is damaged based on image information of a partially damaged object.

[0047] In one embodiment, the object information acquisition unit 100b acquires object information related to the object based on voice information generated by the voice input device 2c acquiring the sound of the object. The object information acquisition unit 100b acquires object information indicating that the object may be broken based on, for example, voice information related to an abnormal sound generated during use of the object.

[0048] In one embodiment, the object information includes a timestamp corresponding to the state of the object, i.e., the object information may include information indicating when and what state the object is in.

[0049] -Detection unit 102- The detection unit 102 detects a malfunction or a sign thereof in the office. In the present disclosure, detecting a malfunction or a sign thereof in the office may include determining that the state of a worker in the office satisfies a predetermined condition. The predetermined condition may include, for example, that a value calculated based on the state of the worker (e.g., a score corresponding to the productivity of the worker) falls below or exceeds a predetermined threshold. The storage unit 14 may store a plurality of such predetermined conditions, and the detection unit 102 may detect a malfunction or a sign thereof in the office when the worker information satisfies at least a part of the plurality of predetermined conditions. Detecting a malfunction or a sign thereof in the office includes determining that there is a malfunction or a sign thereof in the office, and identifying the specific content (e.g., the location and object where the malfunction or the sign thereof occurs, etc.).

[0050] In one embodiment, the detection unit 102 detects a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction in the office based on the worker information. In another embodiment, the detection unit 102 detects a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction in the office based further on the object information.

[0051] In one embodiment, the detection unit 102 detects a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction related to an object based on worker information including information on the use of the object by a worker. For example, if the worker information indicates that a certain object has not been used by a worker for a certain period of time, the detection unit 102 may detect that the certain object has a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction.

[0052] In one embodiment, the detection unit 102 detects a malfunction or a sign thereof in the office by comparing first worker information on the state of a specific worker in the office with second worker information on the state of one or more other workers in the office. Generally, unless a change occurs in the office, the statistical tendency of the worker information of a plurality of workers does not change. On the other hand, when a change occurs in the office (i.e., when a malfunction or a sign thereof occurs in the office), the statistical tendency of the worker information before and after the change may change. Therefore, the support device 4 can detect a malfunction and / or a sign thereof in the office based on, for example, the magnitude of deviation between the first worker information and the second worker information. Specifically, when the magnitude of deviation between the first worker information and the second worker information is equal to or greater than a first threshold, the detection unit 102 may detect that there is a malfunction in the office. In addition, when the magnitude of the deviation between the first worker information and the second worker information is less than the first threshold and equal to or greater than the second threshold (wherein the first threshold is greater than the second threshold), the detection unit 102 may detect that there is a sign of a malfunction in the office. As will be described in detail later with reference to FIG. 5, comparing the first worker information with the second worker information includes inputting the first worker information as judgment data into a learning model to which the second worker information is input as learning data.

[0053] -Generation section 104- The generating unit 104 generates support information for preventing or resolving the malfunction detected by the detecting unit 102. In the present disclosure, generating support information includes newly storing the support information (at least temporarily) in the storage unit 14. The generating unit 104 may generate the support information by referring to a table that associates information on a method for preventing or resolving each of a plurality of malfunctions or their symptoms that may occur in the office.

[0054] In one embodiment, the support information includes malfunction information regarding the location and object in the office where the malfunction or its precursor is occurring, the cause of the malfunction or its precursor, and the extent of business disruption caused by the malfunction or its precursor.

[0055] In one embodiment, the support information includes ordering information related to ordering or repairing the object. For example, when the detection unit 102 detects that the object, which is a fixture, is in short supply, the generation unit 104 generates support information including information related to ordering the fixture. Also, for example, when the detection unit 102 detects that the object, which is a fixture, is broken or damaged, the generation unit 104 generates support information including information related to repairing the fixture.

[0056] In one embodiment, the assistance information includes information generated using natural language processing. In this case, the natural language processing may be performed based on a large-scale language model. The large-scale language model is a learning model for learning from a large amount of text data and performing a natural language processing task. Examples of the large-scale language model include GPT-4, BERT, LaMDA, and PaLM.

[0057] - Output section 106 - The output unit 106 outputs the support information. In the present disclosure, the support device 4 outputting the support information may include making the support information recognizable to at least some of the workers, the manager, and the contractor. Outputting the support information may include, for example, displaying the support information and outputting the support information as audio. In addition, the support device 4 outputting the support information may include transmitting the support information to another device.

[0058] In one embodiment, the output unit 106 transmits support information to the worker terminal device 3a. The support information is displayed on a display screen of the worker terminal device 3a. The support information transmitted to the worker terminal device 3a may include a notification that the object is damaged and should not be used.

[0059] In one embodiment, the output unit 106 transmits support information to the administrator terminal device 3b. The support information is displayed on a display screen of the administrator terminal device 3b. The support information transmitted to the administrator terminal device 3b may include, for example, information on the location of the object in which the defect or a sign of the defect occurs, the contents of the defect or the sign of the defect, a method for solving the defect, a method for preventing the defect, and a seller of the object in which the defect or the sign of the defect occurs.

[0060] In one embodiment, the output unit 106 transmits the support information to the dealer terminal device 3c. The support information is displayed on a display screen of the dealer terminal device 3c. The support information transmitted to the dealer terminal device 3c may include, for example, information for identifying an object in which a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction occurs (for example, a model number of the object), and information on the contents of the malfunction or the sign of a malfunction, etc.

[0061] (Network Interface Unit 16) The network interface unit 16 realizes communication with other devices via the communication network 5 .

[0062] [Communications Network 5] The communication network 5 realizes communication between the terminal device 3 and the support device 4. The communication network 5 realizes communication based on, for example, the TCP / IP protocol.

[0063] <3. Operation of the support device 4> 3-7, an example of the operation of the support device 4 will be described. Note that in this example, the support device 4 will be described assuming that a learning model in which the second worker information is input as learning data has already been generated and stored in the storage unit 14.

[0064] 3 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the support device 4. First, the support device 4 reads out the learning model stored in the storage unit 14 (S100).

[0065] The support device 4 acquires first worker information (S102). In this example, the support device 4 acquires first worker information in the northwest area on the fourth floor of the office (hereinafter, referred to as the "specific area").

[0066] The support device 4 acquires object information (S104). In this example, the support device 4 acquires information on the state of fixtures installed in a specific area as the object information. The information indicates that one desk among the fixtures installed in the specific area has not been used for a predetermined period of time.

[0067] The support device 4 detects a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction in the office based on the first worker information acquired in S102 and the object information acquired in S104 (S106).

[0068] FIG. 4 is a flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the support device 4 to detect a malfunction or a symptom thereof in an office.

[0069] First, the support device 4 inputs the first worker information acquired in S102 as determination data into the learning model read out in S100, thereby determining whether or not there is a malfunction or a sign thereof in the office (S106a).

[0070] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a comparison between the first worker information and the second worker information by a learning model. Specifically, FIG. 5 is a diagram plotting a first worker information vector V1 obtained by vectorizing the first worker information, and a plurality of second worker information vectors V2 obtained by vectorizing the second worker information, which is learning data, on a plane whose axes are the feature amount F1 and the feature amount F2 included in the worker information. The sphere Sp1 includes a plurality of second worker information vectors V2. The sphere Sp2 includes the sphere Sp1 and is composed of a set of points at a predetermined distance from the center of gravity of the plurality of second worker information vectors V2. An example of generating a learning model (i.e., learning the second worker information) is to determine such a sphere Sp1 and a sphere Sp2.

[0071] In this example, the support device 4 determines that there is no malfunction or its sign in the office when the first worker information vector V1 is inside the sphere Sp1 (i.e., when the first worker information and the second worker information are relatively similar). Also, the support device 4 determines that there is a sign of malfunction in the office when the first worker information vector V1 is outside the sphere Sp1 and inside the sphere Sp2 (i.e., when the first worker information and the second worker information are relatively diverged). Also, the support device 4 determines that there is a malfunction in the office when the first worker information vector V1 is outside the sphere Sp2 (i.e., when the first worker information and the second worker information are significantly diverged). Referring to FIG. 5, the first worker information vector V1 is outside the sphere Sp1 and inside the sphere Sp2. Therefore, the support device 4 determines that there is a sign of malfunction in the office.

[0072] In this way, when it is determined that there is a malfunction or a symptom thereof in the office (S106a YES), the support device 4 identifies the object where the malfunction or a symptom thereof is occurring based on the object information acquired in S104 (S106b). As described above, the object information includes information indicating that one desk among the furniture installed in the specific area has not been used for a predetermined period of time, so in this example, the support device 4 identifies that a symptom of a malfunction is occurring in that desk.

[0073] On the other hand, if it is determined that there is no malfunction or a sign of a malfunction in the office (NO in S106a), the support device 4 ends the operation. In this case, the processes in S108 and thereafter in FIG. 3 do not need to be performed.

[0074] Returning to Fig. 3, the support device 4 next determines the destination of the support information (S108). When the support device 4 notifies the manager and / or worker of the support information (S108 Manager and / or Worker), the support device 4 generates support information including defect information (S110) and transmits the support information to the manager terminal device 3b and / or worker terminal device 3a (S112).

[0075] The support device 4 may generate malfunction information including information indicating different urgency depending on whether a malfunction has been detected or a symptom thereof has been detected in S106. In this example, since a symptom of a malfunction has been detected in S106, malfunction information indicating "medium" urgency is generated.

[0076] Fig. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of a display screen when the manager terminal device 3b displays support information. In the example of the display screen in Fig. 6, a title d100, an explanation d102, an urgency d103, and a map display area d104 are displayed. The display contents of the explanation d102 and the map display area d104 are an example of support information.

[0077] The title d100 is an element that shows an overview of the display screen. In the example display screen of Fig. 6, "Support Information Screen" is displayed.

[0078] The explanation d102 is a sentence that explains the contents of the defect or the signs of the defect. In the example display screen of Fig. 6, "There are signs of damage to the desk at the following position" is displayed.

[0079] The urgency d103 is an element that indicates the urgency of a malfunction or a symptom of a malfunction in the office, which is included in the malfunction information. In the example display screen of FIG. 6, "urgency level 'medium'" is displayed based on the fact that a symptom of a malfunction was detected in S106.

[0080] The map display area d104 is an area that displays the location of a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction on a map. In the example display screen of Fig. 6, a direction d106, a floor number d108, desk marks d110-d114, and table marks d116-d118 are displayed in the map display area d104. In the map display area d104, the inside of the office is shown without hatching, and the outside of the office is shown with hatching.

[0081] The direction d106 indicates the orientation of the map. The floor number d108 indicates the floor number of the office related to the map. According to the direction d106 and the floor number d108, the manager can understand that the map display area d104 displays a map of the northwest area (i.e., a specific area) on the fourth floor of the office.

[0082] The desk marks d110-d114 and the table marks d116-118 indicate the positions of the desks and tables in the office, respectively. The attention mark associated with the desk mark d112 indicates that the desk identified in S106b as the cause of the malfunction or its symptoms is located at the position of the desk mark d112.

[0083] By displaying the support information on the manager terminal device 3b, the manager can take action to prevent or resolve the problem. For example, the manager can inspect the desk at the position of the desk mark d112, order repairs, and install a sign indicating that the desk is unusable. Such support information may be displayed on the worker terminal device 3a.

[0084] Returning to Fig. 3, when the support device 4 notifies the vendor of the support information (S108, vendor), the support device 4 generates support information including order information (S114) and transmits the support information to the vendor terminal device 3c (S116).

[0085] Similar to the generation of malfunction information, the support device 4 may generate order information including information indicating different urgency depending on whether a malfunction or a symptom thereof has been detected in S106. In this example, since a symptom of a malfunction has been detected in S106, order information indicating "medium" urgency is generated.

[0086] Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining an example of a display screen when the vendor terminal device 3c displays support information. In the example of the display screen in Fig. 7, a title d200, an explanation d202, urgency d203, and an order information display area d204 are displayed. The display contents of the order information display area d204 are an example of support information. Note that the title d200 and urgency d203 are the same as the title d100 and urgency d103 in Fig. 6, and therefore will not be described below.

[0087] The explanation d202 is an overview of the displayed content. In the example display screen of FIG. 7, "Order information has been received" is displayed.

[0088] The order information display area d204 is an area for displaying order information. In the example of the display screen in Fig. 7, the values ​​"XX Office", "Office Taro", "XXX-XXXX-XXXX", "YYY-YYYYY", and "ZZZ-ZZZZZZ" are associated with the items "Customer Name", "Manager Name", "Manager Contact", "Product Model Number", and "Part Model Number", respectively.

[0089] By displaying the support information on the contractor terminal device 3c, the contractor can take action to prevent or resolve the problem. For example, the contractor can repair the desk at the position of the desk mark d112 and contact the manager.

[0090] <4. Effects of Assistive Device 4> As described above, the support device 4 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a worker information acquisition unit 100a that acquires first worker information regarding the worker's condition in the office, a detection unit 102 that detects signs of malfunction or malfunctions in the office based on the first worker information, a generation unit 104 that generates support information for preventing or resolving the malfunction detected by the detection unit 102, and an output unit 106 that outputs the support information.

[0091] The support device 4 can improve the efficiency of office operations. Specifically, the support device 4 detects malfunctions or signs of malfunctions in the office based on worker information and outputs support information for preventing or resolving them, reducing the need for the manager to personally check for malfunctions or signs of malfunctions in the office. In addition, as a worker, since malfunctions or signs of malfunctions are quickly detected and measures are taken, it becomes possible to maintain high productivity.

[0092] Meanwhile, there has been known a technique for detecting a sign of a machine failure based on the measured value of a sensor installed in the machine. With such a technique, it is possible to detect a change in the state of the machine being measured more quickly and accurately than a human being based on objective data. With the support device 4, since a sign of a malfunction in the office is detected based on objective data called worker information, it becomes possible for the manager to take measures before the worker notices the existence of a malfunction in the office.

[0093] In one embodiment, the first worker information includes information regarding the worker's use of an object including at least a portion of an office facility, fixtures, or equipment, and the detection unit 102 detects a malfunction or a defect associated with the object.

[0094] According to this configuration, malfunctions or signs of malfunctions in the office can be detected more specifically.

[0095] In one embodiment, the support device 4 further includes an object information acquisition unit 100b that acquires object information related to a state of the object, and the detection unit 102 detects a defect related to the object further based on the object information.

[0096] According to this configuration, the support device 4 can detect a malfunction or a symptom thereof in the office with higher accuracy.

[0097] In addition, compared to detecting a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction of an object based on object information without relying on worker information, detecting a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction of an object based on worker information and object information, as in the support device 4 according to the present disclosure, can achieve higher accuracy. For example, if there is a fixture for which the sensor measurement value has not changed over a predetermined period of time, it may not be possible to determine from the object information alone whether the fixture is simply used very infrequently or whether a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction has occurred. In contrast, the support device 4 can determine these by taking into account the worker information as well.

[0098] In one embodiment, the support information includes information regarding ordering or repair of the object, and the output unit 106 transmits the support information to a terminal device 3c of a seller or repairer of the object.

[0099] According to this configuration, defects in the object can be more efficiently prevented or eliminated.

[0100] In one embodiment, the output unit 106 transmits the support information to the terminal device 3a of the worker.

[0101] According to this configuration, the worker can know the existence of a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction in the office, which enables the worker to carry out his / her work while avoiding the influence of the malfunction.

[0102] In one embodiment, the output unit 106 transmits the support information to the terminal device 3b of the manager who manages the office.

[0103] According to this configuration, the manager can learn how to prevent or resolve problems in the office, which allows the manager to deal with problems or their symptoms more efficiently.

[0104] In one embodiment, the worker information acquisition unit 100a further acquires second worker information related to the status of one or more other workers in the office, and the detection unit 102 detects a sign of a malfunction or a malfunction in the office by comparing the first worker information with the second worker information. Also, in one embodiment, the comparison includes inputting the first worker information as judgment data to a learning model to which the second worker information is input as learning data.

[0105] As described in the above embodiment, generally, when a malfunction or a symptom thereof occurs in an office, the statistical worker information tends to be different from normal. Conversely, if the statistical worker information does not differ from the normal trend, it may be presumed that there is no malfunction (at least to the extent that it would cause a hindrance to the worker's work) in the office. In other words, with this configuration, it is possible to accurately detect malfunctions or symptoms thereof in the office.

[0106] Furthermore, it is generally difficult for a manager to quantitatively grasp statistical worker information. According to this configuration, the support device 4 detects malfunctions or signs of malfunctions in the office based on the statistical trends of the worker information. This allows the support device 4 to detect malfunctions or signs of malfunctions in the office that the manager cannot detect.

[0107] In one embodiment, the aiding information may include information generated using natural language processing, and in one embodiment, the natural language processing is based on a large-scale language model.

[0108] According to this configuration, the support device 4 can flexibly generate support information according to the type, scale, etc. of the malfunction or its symptom. This allows the manager, etc. to easily understand the measures to be taken, thereby further improving the efficiency of office operations.

[0109] In one embodiment, the first worker information includes information regarding at least a portion of the worker's facial expression, voice, location, mode of activity, and state of mind.

[0110] In order to grasp the state of a worker, information such as facial expression, voice, position, activity, and mental state of the worker is very important. Therefore, under such a premise, the support device 4 can detect a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction in the office with higher accuracy.

[0111] In one embodiment, the first worker information may include information generated by at least a portion of: (1) an imaging device that photographs the worker in the office; (2) a voice input device that captures voices uttered by the worker in the office; and (3) a position sensor that captures the worker's position in the office.

[0112] In order to grasp the change in the worker's condition in real time, it is effective to utilize information such as images, sounds, and the worker's position in the office. Therefore, under such a premise, the support device 4 can more efficiently detect malfunctions or their signs in the office.

[0113] The effects of the support device 4 described above are merely examples and do not limit the scope of application of the present disclosure.

[0114] <5. Hardware configuration> An example of a hardware configuration in which the above-mentioned support device 4 is realized by a computer 70 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Note that the functions of each device can also be realized by dividing them into a plurality of devices.

[0115] As shown in FIG. 8, a computer 70 includes a processor 700, a storage device 702, an input I / F 704, a data I / F 706, a communication I / F 708, and a display device 710.

[0116] The processor 700 controls various processes in the computer 70 by executing programs stored in the storage device 702. For example, each functional unit included in the control unit 10 of the support device 4 can be realized by the processor 700 executing the programs stored in the storage device 702.

[0117] The storage device 702 is a storage medium such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The RAM temporarily stores the program code of the program executed by the processor 700 and data required when the program is executed.

[0118] The storage device 702 may also be a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a flash memory. The storage device 702 stores an operating system and various programs for implementing the above-mentioned configurations. The storage medium storing the various programs may be a non-transitory computer readable medium. In addition, the storage device 702 may store a table for registering various information and a DB for managing the table. Such programs and data are loaded into the storage device 702 as necessary and referred to by the processor 700.

[0119] The input I / F 704 is a device for receiving input from a user (worker / manager / vendor). Specific examples of the input I / F 704 include a camera, a button, a microphone, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, various sensors, a wearable device, and the like. The input I / F 704 may be connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB).

[0120] The data I / F 706 is a device for inputting data from outside the computer 70. A specific example of the data I / F 706 is a drive device for reading data stored in various storage media. The data I / F 706 may be provided outside the computer 70. In that case, the data I / F 706 is connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as a USB.

[0121] The communication I / F 708 is a device for performing data communication with an external device of the computer 70 via the communication network 5 in a wired or wireless manner. The communication I / F 708 may be provided outside the computer 70. In that case, the communication I / F 708 is connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as a USB.

[0122] The display device 710 is a device for displaying various types of information. Specific examples of the display device 710 include a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, a display of a wearable device, and the like. The display device 710 may be provided outside the computer 70. In that case, the display device 710 is connected to the computer 70 via, for example, a display cable. In addition, when a touch panel is adopted as the input I / F 704, the display device 710 can be configured integrally with the input I / F 704.

[0123] The components of the support device 4 described in the above embodiment are assumed to realize a predetermined process in cooperation with other hardware by the processor 700 executing a program stored in the storage device 702. In other words, these components are assumed to be software or firmware, and also corresponding hardware, and in both concepts, they are also described as "functions," "means," "parts," "processing circuits," "units," or "modules," and can be interpreted as each of these.

[0124] <6. Variations> The matters described in the above embodiment can be modified as appropriate within a range that does not cause inconsistencies.

[0125] In the above embodiment, a "failure" and a "sign of a malfunction" are described separately, but this is not limiting. A "failure" may include a "sign of a malfunction." In other words, a state in which a "failure" occurs in the above embodiment may include, for example, a state in which a business disruption is currently occurring and a state in which there is a certain degree of probability that a business disruption will occur in the future.

[0126] In the above embodiment, the support device 4 executes the process according to the present disclosure, but this is not limited to this. Specifically, the same process may be executed by the terminal device 3 or the like.

[0127] Possible examples of combinations of worker information and malfunctions or signs of malfunctions in the office detected based on the worker information include, for example, the following. (1) If a worker stays around a piece of equipment for a while and then leaves without using the equipment, the support device 4 may detect a malfunction of the equipment. (2) If a first worker stays around equipment or supplies for a while and then leaves without using the equipment or supplies, and a second worker subsequently uses the equipment or supplies, the support device 4 may detect that the first worker did not know how to use the equipment or supplies (i.e., there was a lack of guidance on how to use the equipment or supplies). (3) When a worker moves from a first equipment area to a second equipment area, the support device 4 may detect that the first equipment area is not sufficiently stocked with equipment. (4) When there are few workers in a specific area, the support device 4 may detect that a malfunction has occurred in the specific area (for example, the air conditioner is broken).

[0128] In the above embodiment, the support device 4 transmits the order information to the vendor terminal device 3c, but this is not limited to the above. The support device 4 may transmit the order information to the manager terminal device 3b, and the manager who has confirmed the order information may use the manager terminal device 3b to transmit the order information to the vendor terminal device 3c.

[0129] 7. EMBODIMENTS OF THE DISCLOSURE The present disclosure includes, for example, the following embodiments.

[0130] [Appendix 1] A support device 4 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure includes a worker information acquisition unit 100a that acquires first worker information regarding a worker's condition in the office, a detection unit 102 that detects signs of malfunction or malfunctions in the office based on the first worker information, a generation unit 104 that generates support information for preventing or resolving the malfunction detected by the detection unit 102, and an output unit 106 that outputs the support information.

[0131] [Appendix 2] In the support device 4 described in Appendix 1, the first worker information may include information regarding the worker's use of an object including at least some of the office equipment, fixtures or supplies, and the detection unit 102 may detect signs of malfunction or a malfunction related to the object.

[0132] [Appendix 3] The support device 4 described in Appendix 2 may further include an object information acquisition unit 100b that acquires object information related to the state of the object, and the detection unit 102 may further detect signs of a malfunction or a malfunction related to the object based on the object information.

[0133] [Appendix 4] In the support device 4 described in Supplementary Note 2, the support information may include information regarding ordering or repairing the object, and the output unit 106 may transmit the support information to a terminal device 3c of a seller or repairer of the object.

[0134] [Appendix 5] In the support device 4 according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 4, the output unit 106 may transmit support information to the terminal device 3a of the worker.

[0135] [Appendix 6] In the support device 4 according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 5, the output unit 106 may transmit support information to a terminal device 3b of a manager who manages the office.

[0136] [Appendix 7] In the support device 4 described in any one of Appendices 1 to 6, the worker information acquisition unit 100a may further acquire second worker information regarding the status of one or more other workers in the office, and the detection unit 102 may detect signs of a malfunction or a malfunction in the office by comparing the first worker information with the second worker information.

[0137] [Appendix 8] In the support device 4 described in Supplementary Note 7, the comparison may include inputting the first worker information as judgment data to a learning model to which the second worker information is input as learning data.

[0138] [Appendix 9] In the support device 4 according to any one of Supplementary Note 1 to Supplementary Note 8, the support information may include information generated using natural language processing.

[0139] [Appendix 10] In the support device 4 described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 9, the first worker information may include information regarding at least a part of the worker's facial expression, voice, position, activity mode, and psychological state.

[0140] [Appendix 11] In the support device 4 described in any one of Appendices 1 to 10, the first worker information may include information generated by at least a portion of: (1) an imaging device that photographs the worker in the office; (2) a voice input device that acquires voice uttered by the worker in the office; and (3) a position sensor that acquires the position of the worker in the office.

[0141] [Appendix 12] A support method according to another aspect of the present disclosure has a computer 70 execute the steps of acquiring first worker information regarding a worker's condition in the office, detecting signs of a malfunction or a malfunction in the office based on the first worker information, generating support information for preventing or resolving the malfunction detected in the detection step, and outputting the support information.

[0142] [Appendix 13] Another embodiment of the support program of the present disclosure causes a computer 70 to function as a worker information acquisition means for acquiring first worker information regarding the worker's condition within the office, a detection means for detecting signs of malfunction or malfunctions within the office based on the first worker information, a generation means for generating support information for preventing or resolving the malfunctions detected by the detection means, and an output means for outputting the support information. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 1...system, 2...information acquisition device, 3a...terminal device (worker terminal device), 3b...terminal device (administrator terminal device), 3c...terminal device (vendor terminal device), 4...support device, 10...control unit, 14...storage unit, 16...network interface unit, 70...computer, 100...acquisition unit, 100a...worker information acquisition unit, 100b...object information acquisition unit, 102...detection unit, 104...generation unit, 106...output unit

Claims

1. A worker information acquisition unit that acquires first worker information regarding a status of a worker in an office; A detection unit that detects a sign of a malfunction or a malfunction in the office based on the first worker information; a generating unit that generates support information for preventing or eliminating the malfunction detected by the detecting unit; an output unit that outputs the support information; A support device comprising:

2. the first worker information includes information regarding the worker's use of objects, including at least a portion of equipment, fixtures, or furnishings of the office; The support device according to claim 1 , wherein the detection unit detects a sign of a malfunction or a malfunction relating to the object.

3. An object information acquisition unit that acquires object information related to a state of the object, The support device according to claim 2 , wherein the detection unit detects a sign of a malfunction or a malfunction related to the object based further on the object information.

4. The support information includes information regarding ordering or repairing the object; The support device according to claim 2 , wherein the output unit transmits the support information to a terminal device of a seller or repairer of the object.

5. The support device according to claim 1 , wherein the output unit transmits the support information to a terminal device of the worker.

6. The support device according to claim 1 , wherein the output unit transmits the support information to a terminal device of a manager who manages the office.

7. The worker information acquisition unit further acquires second worker information regarding the status of one or more other workers in the office; The support device according to claim 1 , wherein the detection unit detects a sign of a malfunction or a malfunction in the office by comparing the first worker information with the second worker information.

8. The support device according to claim 7 , wherein the comparing step includes inputting the first worker information as judgment data to a learning model to which the second worker information is input as learning data.

9. The support device according to claim 1 , wherein the support information includes information generated using natural language processing.

10. The support device according to claim 1 , wherein the first worker information includes information regarding at least a part of the worker's facial expression, voice, position, activity mode, and psychological state.

11. The first worker information is (1) an imaging device for photographing the worker in the office; (2) a voice input device for acquiring voices uttered by the workers in the office; (3) a position sensor that acquires the position of the worker in the office The support device of claim 1 , further comprising information generated at least in part by

12. On the computer, obtaining first worker information regarding a status of the worker in the office; Detecting a malfunction or a sign of a malfunction in the office based on the first worker information; generating support information for preventing or eliminating the malfunction detected in the detecting step; outputting the support information; How to support the implementation of these measures.

13. Computer, A worker information acquisition means for acquiring first worker information related to a status of a worker in an office; A detection means for detecting a sign of a malfunction or a malfunction in the office based on the first worker information; a generating means for generating support information for preventing or eliminating the malfunction detected by the detecting means; an output means for outputting the support information; This is a support program that functions as a

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