Testing device and voice guidance method

Abstract

Provided is a technique that makes it possible to provide assistance so that even an operator who is not accustomed to handling of a testing device can more easily address device problems or the like, and achieves an improvement in usability or other characteristics. This testing device creates, upon a location of interest being identified in the inspection device in response to an operator's input or in response to analysis of the state of the testing device, a route to the location of interest and a flow of an operational procedure corresponding to the route (step S103), and provides voice guidance to the operator on the basis of the route and the flow (steps S105, S106).

Description

Inspection device and voice guidance method

[0001] The present disclosure relates to technology for testing devices such as automatic analyzers.

[0002] Testing devices such as automated analyzers are used in environments such as hospitals and testing laboratories. Automated analyzers for clinical testing have the function of automatically analyzing the components of samples. Automated analysis is qualitative and quantitative analysis. There are multiple types of analysis. Examples of types of analysis include biochemical analysis and immunoanalysis. For example, biochemical analysis is an analysis that optically measures components such as enzymes in samples such as blood. Automated analyzers have different mechanisms and parts depending on the type and function of analysis.

[0003] Testing devices used in various fields have generally been used by engineers with specialized knowledge or researchers in related research fields as their users (i.e., operators, etc.). In recent years, there has been a demand for faster test results, and the need for people other than specialized testing engineers to operate testing devices has rapidly increased, such as in point-of-care testing (POCT) performed at private hospitals or near patients. Therefore, operators who use testing devices are not necessarily testing device experts, but may be hospital staff, temporary workers, etc.

[0004] An example of prior art is International Publication No. 2019 / 224968 (Patent Document 1).

[0005] International Publication No. 2019 / 224968

[0006] Therefore, there is a demand for an inspection device that provides stable inspection results independent of the operator and has functions with improved usability that can be used safely even by operators with little experience.

[0007] Patent Document 1 (claim 1) describes an analytical system that performs chemical or physical analysis on a sample and processes and outputs data collected by the analysis, comprising a voice input unit that receives voice uttered by a user, a voice recognition processing unit that recognizes the received voice and outputs control information corresponding to the recognition result, and a data processing execution unit that executes data processing in accordance with the control information. Patent Document 1 (abstract) describes that a user utters a voice containing a specific keyword according to a purpose, the voice recognition unit performs a verbalization process on the voice input via the voice input unit to extract the keyword, a control information selection unit acquires control information corresponding to the keyword, and the data processing unit executes processing, for example, with changed parameters, in accordance with commands linked to the control information, that operations such as changing parameters and conditions during data processing that previously required a keyboard or mouse, etc., can be performed by voice, and that even beginners can easily operate the system.

[0008] Responding to equipment problems is important for testing equipment operators. When an equipment problem such as an abnormality occurs, the operator searches for the troubleshooting method written in the manual and works to resolve the problem while referring to the work procedures written in the manual. However, inexperienced operators may find it difficult to follow the manual or troubleshooting information. For example, even if the equipment problem details and manual are only displayed on the monitor screen, an operator who is not familiar with operating testing equipment may not be able to respond and resolve the problem, even if the equipment problem could be easily resolved by a technician with specialized knowledge. Furthermore, when an urgent sample order is received, the equipment problem may need to be resolved quickly.

[0009] The object of the present disclosure is to provide technology for the above-mentioned inspection device that can assist even operators who are unfamiliar with how to use the inspection device in easily dealing with device problems, etc., and that has improved usability, etc.

[0010] A representative embodiment of the present disclosure has the following configuration: One embodiment is a testing device that tests a specimen, and when a destination location for the testing device is determined in response to an input from an operator or an analysis of the state of the testing device, creates a route to the destination location and a flow of work procedures corresponding to the route, and provides audio guidance to the operator based on the route and the flow.

[0011] According to a representative embodiment of the present disclosure, with regard to the technology of the above-mentioned inspection device, it is possible to provide technology that can assist even an operator who is not familiar with how to use the inspection device in easily dealing with device troubles, etc., and that has improved usability, etc. Problems, configurations, effects, etc. other than those described above will be described in the description of the invention.

[0012] 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall external configuration of an inspection device according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a system including the inspection device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a computer system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing another example of the configuration of an inspection device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a control analysis unit according to the first embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen showing the surrounding conditions of the installation of the inspection device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow when a device problem occurs according to the first embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of setting a spatial region of the inspection device according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a route and a flow according to the first embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the concept of a route according to the first embodiment. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the relationship between a work location and a work target unit, etc. according to the first embodiment. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of routes to multiple destinations according to the first embodiment. FIG. 13 is a diagram related to the search for an optimal route according to the first embodiment. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of route segments of an optimal route and corresponding flows according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of audio during audio guidance according to the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a display during visual guidance according to the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of creating a route taking the surrounding conditions into consideration according to the first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of creating a route taking into consideration changes to the configuration of the inspection device and surrounding conditions in embodiment 1. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow when there are multiple possible causes in embodiment 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of multiple possible causes and corresponding flows in embodiment 1. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a processing flow when an operator becomes unsure of the task during audio guidance in an inspection device of embodiment 2. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of audio confirmation exchange when the task is unsure in embodiment 2.

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same parts are generally designated by the same reference numerals, and repeated explanations will be omitted. In the drawings, the representation of components may not represent their actual positions, sizes, shapes, ranges, etc., in order to facilitate understanding of the invention.

[0014] For the purpose of explanation, when describing processing by a program, the program, functions, processing units, etc. may be described as the main components, but the main hardware components are the processor, or a controller, device, computer, system, etc. that is configured with the processor, etc. The computer executes processing according to the program read into memory using resources such as memory and communication interfaces as appropriate through the processor. This realizes predetermined functions, processing units, etc. The processor is configured, for example, with semiconductor devices such as a CPU / MPU or GPU. Processing is not limited to software program processing, and can also be implemented using dedicated circuits. Dedicated circuits such as FPGAs, ASICs, and CPLDs can be used.

[0015] The program may be pre-installed as data on the target computer, or may be distributed as data from a program source to the target computer. The program source may be a program distribution server on a communication network, or a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, such as a memory card or disk. The program may be composed of multiple modules. The computer system may be composed of multiple devices. The computer system may be composed of a client-server system, a cloud computing system, an IoT system, etc. Various data and information may be composed of structures such as tables and lists, for example, but are not limited to these. Expressions such as identification information, identifiers, IDs, names, and numbers are interchangeable.

[0016] [Issues, etc.] A supplementary explanation of the issues, etc. Some inspection devices according to the prior art are equipped with a function that displays information such as manuals and troubleshooting / solutions / countermeasures on a display screen when a device problem such as an abnormality / error occurs, and provides display guidance to the user who is the operator. Such a display guidance function uses the displayed information to guide the user to the corrective action required to eliminate the cause of the abnormality, etc., and guides the user to the location of the abnormality or the location where the action is to be taken. The user (operator), who is a specialized engineer, can look at the displayed information, confirm the location of the abnormality, etc., and carry out the corrective action, etc.

[0017] However, with such technology, the user must view the display guidance information on the display screen, and the user must move away from the display screen in order to view the abnormality location, work location, etc. of the inspection device and perform the work. In other words, it is difficult for the user to simultaneously view the display guidance information on the display screen and the abnormality location, work location, etc. The abnormality location, work location, etc. may be a unit or part where an abnormality has occurred, a unit or part suspected to be the cause of the abnormality, or a unit or part that is the target of a corrective work. Depending on the positional relationship between the display screen and the work location (unit, etc.), the user must move appropriately between the display screen and the work location, which is time-consuming. Furthermore, while the user is away from the display screen, the user may forget the display guidance information (e.g., work instructions). There is also a possibility that the object, etc. pointed by the display guidance information on the display screen does not match the object, etc. that the user actually sees at the work location.

[0018] Therefore, the inspection device of this embodiment is equipped with a voice guidance function that provides voice guidance to the user (operator) regarding abnormal locations and corrective actions when a device problem occurs. By using voice guidance, the user does not need to look at the information displayed on the display screen, and can move away from the display screen without any problems as long as they are within a range where the voice guidance can be heard. The user can move to and access the target location and perform corrective actions by following the voice guidance information.

[0019] The inspection device of this embodiment has a voice guidance function that outputs information about device troubles to the user by voice. Based on the analysis, the inspection device identifies the location of the abnormal condition (unit, etc.), the location that is presumed to be the cause of the abnormality, and the location where work should be performed to resolve the abnormality, and appropriately sets these locations as destination locations. Alternatively, the inspection device sets the destination location based on input from the user.

[0020] The inspection device of this embodiment creates an access route from the operator's position (a reference position, for example, the front of the housing) to the destination location. The inspection device creates a work procedure flow in association with the route. The route may be composed of multiple route segments if there are intermediate locations along the way. The destination location and intermediate locations are units, parts, etc. The route may also take into account work locations where the operator will operate and work on units, etc., in association with the destination location, intermediate locations, and work procedure. The work location may be the area surrounding the housing of the inspection device.

[0021] The inspection device provides voice guidance to the operator, one by one, for each intermediate location and work step based on the created route and flow. The inspection device confirms with the user whether the user has reached each intermediate location and completed the corresponding work step for each route segment of the route to the destination. For example, the user inputs confirmation / completion of the intermediate location and work step. This confirmation / completion input may be voice input or input on a display screen. Alternatively, the inspection device may detect that the user has reached the intermediate location and work step using a sensor or the like, without relying on user input. Upon receiving the user's confirmation / completion input, the inspection device provides voice guidance to the next location and work step on the route and flow.

[0022] The voice guidance function can also provide voice guidance from the initial position (e.g., the front of the housing) to the destination, and after completing the corrective action at the destination, return the inspection device to its original state and return to the initial position. For example, if the route and work procedure flow to the destination passes through units A, B, and C in that order, the reverse route and flow to return to the initial position can be set to pass through units C, B, and A in that order.

[0023] The inspection device of this embodiment is equipped with at least a voice guidance function, but may also be equipped with a visual guidance function, or both. The visual guidance function displays information about device troubles on the display screen, guides the operator to the target location, and guides the operator through the work procedure.

[0024] The inspection device uses voice guidance to guide the user through at least one of the route to the destination and the corresponding work procedure flow. While both sets of guidance are preferred, one-way guidance is also possible. The inspection device may also use voice guidance to guide the user through operations and tasks on objects along the way or at the destination. Examples include opening doors or covers, pressing buttons, pulling levers, removing units, and replacing parts.

[0025] When voice guidance is provided, an object such as a unit or part corresponding to a destination or an intermediate location is specified. The inspection device specifies the object by voice output, for example, "Please open door A" or "Please operate unit A." In this case, the user can identify and understand the object by following the voice guidance. The following are some of the means for this identification and understanding:

[0026] The user may know the object in advance from a manual or the like. Alternatively, the user may know the object from a display guidance screen. Alternatively, each part of the testing device may be previously assigned a physical marker label or the like for identification (e.g., "A1," "A2," "B1," "B2," etc.). When the testing device provides voice guidance, the name of the object (e.g., "transport unit," "specimen container," etc.) may be specified, or identification information such as a marker label may be specified. Furthermore, a unit of the testing device may be provided with a lamp, a speaker, etc. When providing voice guidance, a lamp corresponding to the object may be illuminated, or a sound may be emitted from a speaker corresponding to the object.

[0027] Priorities may be set for multiple destinations, multiple work procedures, etc. The inspection device may set the order of the route / flow of voice guidance for multiple destinations, multiple work procedures, etc. according to the priorities. For example, if multiple abnormalities occur in the inspection device, priorities on the route / flow are set for the multiple abnormalities according to their priorities. The priorities are determined taking into account the configuration of the inspection device, etc.

[0028] The voice guidance function of the inspection device sets at least each hardware unit (transport unit, etc.) of the inspection device as an object, setting it as an intermediate location or a destination, and provides voice guidance regarding access to that object. The spatial position of each unit, etc. in the configuration of the inspection device and its positional relationship with other components are managed and stored as information. The relationship between the surrounding situation of the inspection device and the components of each unit, etc. are also managed and stored as information. The inspection device creates an optimal route based on such information.

[0029] First Embodiment An inspection device and an inspection method according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 1 and subsequent drawings.

[0030] [Inspection Apparatus] Fig. 1 shows an example of the overall external configuration of an inspection apparatus according to embodiment 1. The inspection apparatus 100 in Fig. 1 includes a transport unit 1 (1a, 1b), a dispensing unit 2 (2a, 2b), a sample input unit 3, a pre-processing unit 4, a temperature adjustment unit 5, a reagent storage unit 6, a trash box 7, an audio output unit 8, an audio input unit 9, and a control and analysis unit (in other words, a control unit, a controller) 10. Although Fig. 1 illustrates the audio output unit 8 and the audio input unit 9 as an integrated unit, this is not limiting.

[0031] The transport unit 1 and the dispensing unit 2 may be variously configured depending on the type and implementation details of the inspection device, such as a transport unit alone, a dispensing unit alone, or both, but this is not limited thereto, and details are not shown in Figure 1.

[0032] Each type of unit may have more than one of the same units. For example, in Fig. 1, there are two transport units 1a and 1b as transport units 1, and there are two dispensing units 2a and 2b as dispensing units 2. The operation of each unit is controlled by the control and analysis unit 10. Each unit is managed so that it can be identified by the control and analysis unit 10.

[0033] An overview of the operation of the inspection device 100 is, for example, as follows: The control and analysis unit 10 controls operations related to analysis and inspection. The control and analysis unit 10 controls the operation of each part of the inspection device 100 and collects and stores data on measurement results. The control and analysis unit 10 is equipped with a processor, memory, etc. Although not shown in detail, the circuit board and computer that make up the control and analysis unit 10 are electrically connected to each part of the inspection device 100 via cables and communication means (which may be wired or wireless), etc., not shown. Although not shown in detail, drive circuits that drive each part and sensors that detect the operation and status of each part are also provided.

[0034] The test and analysis begins when a sample to be tested (in other words, a specimen or analyte) is placed in the sample input unit 3. The testing device 100 moves the sample from the sample input unit 3 to the pre-processing unit 4 using the transport unit 1a and the dispensing unit 2a, and pre-processes the sample for temperature-controlled testing. This pre-processing step corresponds to a step of extracting a specific substance from the sample, such as extracting nucleic acid from the sample.

[0035] After the pretreatment step, the extracted substance or solution is transported by the transport unit 1b or the dispensing unit 2b to the temperature control unit 5, where the temperature is controlled and predetermined parameters are measured. The measurement value signals / data are sent to the control and analysis unit 10. The control and analysis unit 10 performs analysis and processing based on the measurement values, creates test results, and saves and outputs the test results.

[0036] When a reagent is used for testing, the reagent is transported and dispensed from the reagent storage unit 6 to the sample by the transport unit 1 and the dispensing unit 2. Containers, dispensing tips, etc. that have been used and discarded are transported from the transport unit 1 and the dispensing unit 2 to a trash box 7 and collected.

[0037] 1 shows a case where one inspection device 100 is installed in the usage environment, but multiple devices may be provided depending on the usage environment. Also, in the example of FIG. 1, the inspection device 100 is shown to be configured with one main housing 190, but depending on the type and implementation, it may have multiple housings 190 or modules, and each housing 190 or module may be expandable or configurable. Depending on the type and implementation, the inspection device 100 may allow various units to be replaced or expanded or configurable.

[0038] The testing device 100 may be configured by assembling, combining, or integrating multiple housings / modules. The modules are equipped with components such as a control unit, an operation / display unit, an analysis unit, and a transport unit. In the assembly method, the testing device 100 in the usage environment is configured by combining multiple necessary modules. For example, a combination is possible in which the first module is a control unit (corresponding to the control / analysis unit 10), the second module is an operation / display unit (e.g., corresponding to the computer system 200 in FIG. 2), the third module is a first analysis unit (e.g., a unit for biochemical analysis), and the fourth module is a second analysis unit (e.g., a unit for immunoanalysis). Additional housings and modules may be added depending on the number of sample containers required in the usage environment.

[0039] The inspection device 100 in FIG. 1 has various units mounted at predetermined positions inside a housing 190. The housing 190 also includes structures such as a stand, walls, and partitions. The inspection device 100 in FIG. 1 illustrates only the outline of the frame structure of the housing 190 so that the internal units and the like can be seen, and does not illustrate details of the covers and other components that make up the exterior. In reality, the housing 190 also includes components such as a front cover, a rear cover, left and right side covers, and a top cover. The components, such as the structures and covers of the housing 190, also include mechanisms such as doors, drawers, handles, and screws, which enable predetermined operations. For example, a user can access the internal units and the like by opening and closing the cover doors.

[0040] 1 shows an example of implementation of the testing device 100 of the first embodiment, and the components required for analysis and testing may be implemented differently. For example, an automatic analyzer with a biochemical analysis function may be provided with a unit that handles reaction vessels that can be reused by washing, and an automatic analyzer with an immunoanalysis function may be provided with a unit that handles disposable reaction vessels.

[0041] [Voice Guidance Function and Voice Guidance System] A description will be given of a voice guidance function provided in the inspection device 100 of the first embodiment, a voice guidance system including the inspection device 100, etc. The inspection device 100 of the first embodiment constitutes a voice guidance system.

[0042] The inspection device 100 in Fig. 1 includes an audio output unit 8 and an audio input unit 9. The audio output unit 8 is a speaker, an audio output circuit, or the like. The audio input unit 9 is a microphone, an audio input circuit, or the like. Although Fig. 1 illustrates an example in which the audio output unit 8 and the audio input unit are integrated, they may be mounted separately. In the example in Fig. 1, the audio output unit 8 and the audio input unit 9 are disposed near the upper edge of the front surface of the housing 190, but they may be disposed in other positions.

[0043] Note that in FIG. 1 , (X, Y, Z) are illustrated as directions and a spatial coordinate system for the purpose of explanation. The X-axis / X-direction is the left-right direction, lateral direction, and first horizontal direction as seen from the user, when the front plane of the illustrated rectangular parallelepiped housing 190 is the front surface (in other words, the front face). The Y-axis / Y-direction is the front-back direction, depth direction, and second horizontal direction as seen from the user, relative to the same front surface. The Z-axis / Z-direction is the up-down direction, vertical direction as seen from the user. The user's reference position is a position on the front side in the Y-direction relative to the front surface of the housing 190. When there are no objects around the housing 190, the user can freely move around the housing 190 (left and right sides, back, etc.).

[0044] [Testing System Including Testing Apparatus] FIG. 2 shows an example of the configuration of a testing system including the testing apparatus 100. FIG. 2 shows an example of a system having both a voice guidance function and a display guidance function. FIG. 2 also shows an example of the configuration of the screen display unit 220, which will be described later. In an environment where the device is used (e.g., a hospital), a main housing 190 of the testing apparatus 100 and a sub-housing (in other words, a workbench) 180 are installed. User U1, who is the operator, is a person who operates the testing apparatus 100 and performs work. User U1 may be a person who performs testing work or a person who performs maintenance work on the testing apparatus 100. Note that, while FIG. 2 shows the control and analysis unit 10 arranged in the sub-housing (workbench) 180, the present invention is not limited to this, and the control and analysis unit 10 may also be arranged in the main housing 190.

[0045] The housing 190 of the inspection device 100 corresponds to the configuration shown in FIG. 1 , for example. The inspection device 100 (particularly the control and analysis unit 10 and the housing 190) is connected to a computer system 200 (in other words, an operation unit or display unit) equipped with a display 20. The computer system 200 is a system that configures a user interface and display navigation functions, and is a separate element from the control and analysis unit 10. The computer system 200 can also be implemented on a general PC or the like. The display 20 may be a touch panel. In this example, a separate housing 180 (which may be a workbench or desk) is located next to the main housing 190, and the computer system 200 equipped with the display 20 is installed on the top surface of the housing 180. Furthermore, a controller and other components that constitute the control and analysis unit 10 are installed inside the housing 180. A user U1, who is an operator, can operate devices such as the keyboard, mouse, and buttons of the computer system 200 and view information and images displayed on the display screen of the display 20.

[0046] 2 is an example, and is not limiting. Depending on the inspection device 100, a computer system 200 equipped with a display 20 may be installed on the top surface of the housing 190. Also, depending on the inspection device 100, the control analysis unit 10 and the computer system 200 may be implemented as an integrated unit.

[0047] 2, depending on the inspection system including the inspection device 100, the control and analysis unit 10, the computer system 200, etc. may be connected to an external device such as a server device 72 on a communication network 71 (e.g., a LAN). Depending on the inspection system, the control and analysis unit 10, the computer system 200, etc. may be connected via communication with a mobile terminal 73 carried by a user U1. The mobile terminal 73 may be a tablet terminal, a smartphone, etc.

[0048] As a modified example, the audio output by the audio guidance function is not limited to being output from the audio output unit 8, such as a speaker, provided on the housing 190 of the inspection device 100. When the computer system 200 equipped with the display 20 when using the display guidance function is equipped with a speaker, the audio output may be from the speaker. The audio output range of the audio guidance need only cover the work area near the inspection device 100. Furthermore, when a user has a mobile terminal 73 that communicates with the inspection device 100, the audio output of the audio guidance and the screen display of the display guidance may be from the mobile terminal 73. The audio input from the operator to the audio guidance function is not limited to being input to the audio input unit 9, such as a microphone, provided on the housing 190 of the inspection device 100. When the computer system 200 equipped with the display 20 when using the display guidance function is equipped with a microphone, the audio input may be from the microphone. Furthermore, the audio input may be from the user's mobile terminal 73 that communicates with the inspection device 100. The display output and input (for example, touch operation input) using the display guidance function are not limited to the computer system 200, but may also be the display output and input of the user's mobile terminal 73 that communicates with the inspection device 100.

[0049] [Example of Computer System Configuration] Fig. 3 shows an example of the configuration of the control and analysis unit 10 of the inspection device 100, the computer system 200, etc. as a computer system. The computer system of Fig. 3 includes a computer 1000. The computer 1000 includes a processor 1001, a memory 1002, a communication interface device 1003, an input / output interface device 1004, etc., which are interconnected by an architecture such as a bus. An input device 1005 and an output device 1006 are externally connected to the input / output interface device 1004. The computer 1000 may also include the input device 1005 and the output device 1006.

[0050] The processor 1001 executes processing in accordance with the control program 1011 stored in the memory 1002. This allows predetermined functions to be realized.

[0051] The memory 1002 is configured with a non-volatile storage device, a storage device, etc. The memory 1002 stores various data and information handled by the processor 1001. The memory 1002 stores, for example, a control program 1011, setting information 1012, a database (DB) 1013, tables, screen data 1014, etc. The memory 1002 also stores analysis request information, analysis result information, etc.

[0052] [Configuration example of testing device (automated analyzer)] The testing device 100 is not limited to the configuration example shown in FIG. 1 and may have various configurations depending on the type and specifications of the testing device, and may include various units and parts depending on the configuration. Other configuration examples are shown below. Depending on the testing device, a sample disk unit, a reagent disk unit, a reaction vessel disk unit, a dispensing unit, a transport unit, etc. may be installed so that they are exposed on the top surface of the housing. In such cases, the target location for audio guidance or the location to be worked on may be a unit or part on the top surface of the housing.

[0053] Fig. 4 shows an example of the configuration of another testing device, which is an automatic analyzer equipped with a biochemical analysis function. In Fig. 4, a specimen unit 401, a reaction unit 402, a reagent unit 403, a specimen dispensing unit 404, a reagent dispensing unit 405, etc. are arranged so as to be exposed on the top surface 190E of the housing 190. These exposed portions can be covered by a top cover (not shown).

[0054] The specimen unit 401 is, for example, a disk-shaped specimen container transport mechanism, and has multiple specimen containers mounted on its circumference. The specimen containers are containers that contain specimens such as blood. The reagent unit 403 is, for example, a disk-shaped reagent container transport mechanism, and has multiple reagent containers mounted on its circumference. The reagent containers contain reagent liquid. The reaction unit 402 is, for example, a disk-shaped reaction container transport mechanism, and has multiple reaction containers mounted on its circumference. The reaction containers are made of a light-transmitting material. The reaction containers are maintained at a predetermined temperature by a constant temperature bath.

[0055] The specimen dispensing mechanism 404 is disposed near the specimen unit 401 and the reaction unit 403, and dispenses the specimen by aspirating the specimen from the specimen container in the specimen unit 401 and dispensing it into the reaction container in the reaction unit 403. The specimen dispensing mechanism 404 includes a movable arm, a probe, etc. The reagent dispensing mechanism 405 is disposed near the reagent unit 403 and the reaction unit 402, and dispenses the reagent by aspirating the reagent from the reagent container in the reagent unit 403 and dispensing it into the reaction container in the reaction unit 402. The reagent dispensing mechanism 405 includes a movable arm, a pipette nozzle, etc.

[0056] The housing 190 also includes an agitation unit, a cleaning unit, an optical measurement unit, and the like. The agitation unit agitates the mixture of specimen and reagent in the reaction vessel to promote the reaction and turn it into a reaction solution. The cleaning unit is connected to a cleaning water pump or the like and cleans the inside of a used reusable vessel. The optical measurement unit includes, for example, a light source and a photometer. The photometer is a multi-wavelength photometer that detects transmitted light or scattered light from the reaction solution in the reaction vessel based on light from the light source. The signal measured by the photometer is processed through a measurement circuit and sent to the analysis control unit 10.

[0057] Each unit is also provided with a drive unit 451 such as a motor (not shown). Each unit and the drive unit 451 are connected to the control analysis unit 10 and the like via an interface circuit 450 (which may also be a communication unit). The interface circuit 450 is connected to the control analysis unit 10, a storage device 411, an input device 412, an output device 413, a power supply device 414, an operation unit / display unit 420 (corresponding to the computer system 200 in FIG. 2), and the like.

[0058] The operation unit 420 is a section where the user U1, who is the operator, operates the inspection device 100, and may be configured as an operation panel. The operation unit 420 may also be configured as an input device 412 and an output device 413. Graphical user interface (GUI) information and the like are displayed on the display screen of the operation unit 420. The operator inputs, for example, analysis request information and an instruction to start analysis based on the information on the display screen. Furthermore, when an apparatus trouble occurs, information notifying the user of the apparatus trouble and display guidance information for resolving the trouble are displayed on the display screen.

[0059] The various units / devices / components, etc. that make up the various inspection devices 100 described above are the targets of voice guidance in the voice guidance function, and are the components of the path / flow.

[0060] 5 shows a configuration example of the voice guidance function and the display guidance function as control functions of the control analysis unit 10 of the inspection device 100. The control analysis unit 10 includes a voice storage unit 201, a keyword list 202, a device status accumulation unit 203, a device status analysis unit 204, a route data accumulation unit 205, a route combination unit 206, and a voice synthesis unit 207. Each unit is realized by a circuit, program processing, or the like.

[0061] The control analysis unit 10 is connected to each device unit 210, the audio input unit 9, the audio output unit 8, the screen display unit 220, etc. The device units 210 are each unit such as the transport unit 1 in Fig. 1. The screen display unit 220 is shown in Fig. 2 as an example configuration as a computer system 700 equipped with a display 70.

[0062] The control and analysis unit 10 can be implemented using an IC board, a computer, or the like. The control and analysis unit 10 controls the entire testing device 1 and each unit, and realizes testing functions using automatic analysis functions. The control and analysis unit 10 drives each unit, such as the sample unit 1, by sending control signals to each drive unit, for example. During sample analysis, the control and analysis unit 10 controls operations such as sample dispensing by sending command control signals to each unit based on operations by user U1 via the operation unit (computer system 200 in Figure 2), setting information, analysis request information, etc. The control and analysis unit 10 performs sample analysis processing through program processing by a processor based on measurement signals from the optical measurement unit.

[0063] The voice storage unit 201 records voice data input through the voice input unit 9 in a memory resource. The character conversion unit 202 converts the voice recorded in the voice storage unit 201 into characters (in other words, text, natural language, etc.) based on a keyword list 202B. The character conversion unit 202 is, in other words, a voice recognition unit. The keyword list 202B stores and sets in advance words / phrases and the like that represent operation contents and the like that are predicted to be uttered as keywords when an operator makes an inquiry or makes a response to the system in the event of a device trouble, etc.

[0064] The device status accumulation unit 203 collects and accumulates signal information, numerical information, sensor detection information, etc. from each device unit 210 (each unit in FIG. 1, etc.) The device status accumulation unit 203 also acquires character information (i.e., user input information / instruction information / inquiry information / answer information, etc.) from the character conversion unit 202.

[0065] The device status analysis unit 204 analyzes the status of the inspection device 100 using information (accumulated information) collected in the device status accumulation unit 203. The device status analysis unit 204 determines and estimates the status of the inspection device 100, such as the presence or absence of an abnormality / error, the location of the occurrence, and details. For example, the device status analysis unit 204 estimates the location of the abnormal condition (e.g., a unit) when an abnormal condition is detected. If multiple abnormal locations are estimated, the device status analysis unit 204 may calculate a ranking of the likelihood of the multiple abnormal locations (e.g., multiple units). The device status analysis unit 204 also estimates the cause of the abnormal condition. If multiple causes are estimated, the device status analysis unit 204 may calculate a ranking of the likelihood of the multiple causes. If information on the location and cause of the abnormal condition is available, the device status analysis unit 204 may refer to or calculate information on measures to resolve the abnormal condition. The device status analysis unit 204 retains and outputs information (status data) resulting from the determination and estimation.

[0066] To give a specific example of the above, as a simple example, when an abnormality occurs or is detected in a sample unit, the abnormal location is the sample unit, the cause of the abnormality is, for example, clogging / congestion of sample containers, and the response information is, for example, checking / removing the sample containers in the sample unit, etc. In another example, when an abnormality occurs in the analysis results (for example, an abnormal measurement value), multiple possible locations and causes of the abnormality include an insufficient amount of sample in the sample unit, insufficient dispensing in the dispensing unit, etc.

[0067] The route data accumulator 205 stores data input by the operator on the surrounding conditions (see FIG. 6 described below) surrounding the installation of the inspection device 100 as surrounding data D2. The route data accumulator 205 also stores, for example, data on one or more procedures for dealing with or improving an abnormal state (countermeasure data D4), and data for creating a route or flow to reach each unit or component that is an abnormal location (route data D3). The operator of the inspection device 100 may set this data and information in advance, or may update the data and information as appropriate.

[0068] For example, when an abnormality occurs in the inspection device 100, the route combination unit 206 performs calculations to extract an optimal route and an optimal flow from the information (status data) from the device status analysis unit 204 and each piece of data such as the route data D3 from the route data accumulation unit 205, and creates, stores, and outputs optimal route data D5 and optimal flow data D6. The route combination unit 206 creates an optimal route by combining the routes in the route data D3, and creates an optimal flow by combining the work procedures in the response data D4.

[0069] When outputting the device status report information from the device status analysis unit 204 and the optimal route / optimal flow information obtained by the route combination unit 206 as voice, the voice synthesis unit 207 constructs a sentence for voice output from the information and converts the constructed sentence into voice information through voice synthesis processing. The voice synthesis unit 207 performs linguistic analysis on the sentence, adds pronunciation, pauses, accents, etc., then determines rhythm and intonation, and finally selects voice waveform data and smoothly connects them to synthesize voice.

[0070] The voice output unit 8 outputs the text voice information from the speaker after voice synthesis by the voice synthesis unit 207. In this way, information such as voice guidance is conveyed to the operator by voice reading.

[0071] In the control analysis unit 10 in Fig. 5, each unit from the voice storage unit 201 to the voice synthesis unit 207 is illustrated as a plurality of functionally separated blocks, but this is not limiting. Each unit may be integrated into one, or each unit may be further divided into multiple units. Each unit may be realized by program processing or by a dedicated circuit. Multiple units may be realized collectively by program processing by the control analysis unit 10.

[0072] The screen display unit 220 can be realized by, for example, the computer system 200 of FIG. 2. The screen display unit 220 displays display information on a display screen. The screen display unit 220 is used when performing conventional displays or when providing display guidance to the user. The screen display unit 220 may display, for example, device status information obtained by the device status analysis unit 204, or information on the optimal route or optimal flow obtained by the route combination unit 206.

[0073] Although the screen display unit 220 is not specifically shown in Fig. 1, the control analysis unit 10 and the screen display unit 220 may be connected (for example, Fig. 2). The control analysis unit 10 and the screen display unit 220 may be connected via wired or wireless communication. The various data and information in Fig. 5 may be stored in a storage resource external to the control analysis unit 10.

[0074] The route data accumulation unit 205, etc., in which the route data D3, etc., are stored, may be externally connected to the control analysis unit 10 due to the need to update each piece of data and information. For example, various data may be stored in an external storage device such as a storage, or may be stored in the server device 72, etc., shown in FIG. 2. When an update to the configuration of the inspection device 100 or an update to the anomaly analysis occurs, various related data may be updated accordingly. When updating, the various data may be set in the control analysis unit 10 by an operator / maintenance personnel, or may be automatically updated by downloading from the server device 72, etc., shown in FIG. 2.

[0075] Furthermore, depending on the system including the inspection device 100, the device status analysis unit 204 may be externally connected to the control and analysis unit 10. For example, the server device 72 in FIG. 2 may be provided with the device status analysis unit 204. The inspection device 100 appropriately communicates with the server device 72. The server device 72 may analyze the status of the inspection device 100 using the device status analysis unit 204 based on information from the inspection device 100 and transmit status data of the analysis results to the inspection device 100 (the control and analysis unit 10 or the computer system 200). Multiple inspection devices 100 in multiple environments may be connected to the server device 72. This may improve analysis speed and enable analysis that takes into account correlation with other devices. Furthermore, the business operator's server device 72 can centrally manage the status of multiple inspection devices 100.

[0076] Various data and information required for the voice guidance function are set and stored in the route data accumulation unit 205 (corresponding memory resource). The route data accumulation unit 205 includes, for example, device configuration data D1, peripheral data D2, route data D3, and response data (in other words, work procedure data) D4.

[0077] The device configuration data D1 includes configuration information for each unit, part, etc., according to the type and specifications of the inspection device 100. The device configuration data D1 also includes information such as the ID, position, and characteristics of each unit, etc.

[0078] The peripheral data D2 includes information on the surrounding conditions according to the installation configuration of the inspection device 100 in the usage environment, such as that shown in FIG. 6 described later.

[0079] The route data D3 contains information about a route for accessing a unit or component that is the destination of the inspection device 100.

[0080] The countermeasure data D4 contains information about procedures for countermeasure work for units of the inspection device 100. For example, there are procedures for checking abnormality and procedures for countermeasure work when a unit is in an abnormal state.

[0081] The countermeasure data D4 may contain, for example, the following information: Variations in the state of the device due to signal abnormalities, such as various troubles / abnormalities / errors, etc. Countermeasure procedures based on manuals, troubleshooting information, etc. to deal with the troubles, etc. Position information for accessing each unit, component, etc. from outside (surroundings) of each inspection device 100, etc.

[0082] [Audio Guidance Operation When Equipment Trouble Occurs] The following describes the operation of providing audio guidance to the user when equipment trouble occurs in the inspection equipment 100. This system uses audio guidance to guide the user to a destination, such as the location of the abnormality, the location of the cause, or the location where a corrective action is to be taken in the inspection equipment 100. During this guidance, an optimal route / flow (particularly an optimal route and optimal flow) is configured to optimally reach the destination. A flow corresponding to a route has at least a work procedure to be performed at the destination (the corresponding work location). A route may include one or more intermediate locations to be passed through along the way. A route may be made up of a series of multiple route segments. A flow may include one or more intermediate work procedures to be performed along the way.

[0083] The control and analysis unit 10 of the inspection device 100 determines at least one route / flow. If multiple routes / flows are possible, the control and analysis unit 10 may prioritize and propose the multiple routes / flows. The inspection device 100 provides voice guidance to the user according to the optimal route / flow, the necessary locations, and the order of steps. During this voice guidance, the user can input voice confirmation to the system, and the system can output voice confirmation to the user (described below).

[0084] [Device Installation Surrounding Conditions] In this embodiment, in order to effectively use the voice guidance provided by the inspection device 100, the current installation location and surrounding conditions of the inspection device 100 in the usage environment can be input and set. Voice guidance can be more effectively achieved depending on the input and setting of the surrounding conditions. In this embodiment, a screen such as that shown in FIG. 6 is provided that allows the operator (or a maintenance worker at the time of installation) to input and set the device installation surrounding conditions. The inspection device 100 of this system displays a screen 600 (surrounding condition input and setting screen) as shown in FIG. 6 on the screen display unit 220 of FIG. 5 and the display 20 of FIG. 2.

[0085] The upper part of FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of an example of the appearance of the inspection device 100. The housing 190 is installed on a floor surface 690. The front surface 190A is the surface of the housing 190 that is closer to you along the Y axis, in other words, the front. A screen 600 at the bottom of FIG. 6 displays an X-Y plan view of the surroundings of the device installation, viewed from above. An area (inspection device area) 601 indicates the area where the housing 190 of the inspection device 100 is installed and arranged. An area (surrounding area) 602 indicates the area surrounding the area 601 (including the front and rear, left and right, and diagonal directions in the X and Y directions). Each area, such as area 602, may be divided into multiple blocks or the like in advance and displayed. Identification information may be assigned and displayed to each area. For example, area / location A1, A2, etc.

[0086] In the usage environment, there may be obstacles in the area 602 surrounding the inspection device 100. Obstacles are generally assumed to be objects that cannot be easily moved, such as walls or pillars of a building, other devices or shelves, or installations other than the inspection device 100. For example, to clarify whether a cover of the housing 190 can be opened or closed around the inspection device 100, or whether work can be performed on a unit, etc., the user can select and input the presence or absence of surrounding obstacles on the screen 600. For example, the user can input the presence or absence of obstacles by operating a cursor or touching the screen 600 with a finger to select (on / off) the desired surrounding area 602. In the illustrated example, areas 603 and the like shown as darker areas are areas set as "with obstacles." White areas are areas set as "without obstacles." In other words, the area 603 set as "with obstacles" is an area where a user cannot or would have difficulty entering and performing work.

[0087] The input and setting of the surrounding conditions may at least be a selection of whether or not to allow access to the housing 190 of the inspection device 100 (side surfaces in the X and Y directions in FIG. 6 ) from the surroundings. The GUI of the screen 600 may at least be a selection of whether or not to turn the surrounding areas on or off. The inspection device 100 displays the screen 600 shown in FIG. 6 on the display 20 of FIG. 2 , for example.

[0088] Depending on the usage environment, various peripheral conditions of the inspection device 100 exist and can change as necessary. Such peripheral conditions may be set in advance when the inspection device 100 is installed, or may be set by the user at an appropriate time, such as when changing the configuration. The peripheral conditions of the device installation set by the user on the screen 600 are saved as peripheral data D2 in the route data accumulation unit 205 in FIG. 5.

[0089] If there are no obstacles around the housing 190 of the inspection device 100 and the device is installed so that it can be accessed from anywhere, the input and setting of the surrounding conditions as described above may be omitted. The entire surrounding area 602 may be input and set as "no obstacles." This setting may be the default.

[0090] However, depending on the circumstances of the user and the environment in which the inspection device 100 is used, for example, due to the relative position of the installation location of the inspection device 100 relative to building walls or other devices, there may be areas or locations around the inspection device 100 where some units are inaccessible, as shown in Figure 6. Such surrounding conditions can be input and set as surrounding data D2. This allows the control analysis unit 10 to more appropriately perform route searches and the like when creating a route or flow for voice guidance using the surrounding data D2, thereby creating a more appropriate route or flow.

[0091] The inspection device 100 treats an "obstructed" area such as area 603 as an area in which access to an adjacent part of the inspection device 100 (e.g., area 604) is impossible or difficult to access, making it inefficient. When creating a route / flow for audio guidance of troubleshooting work in the event of a problem, the control analysis unit 10 searches for an optimal route that avoids such "obstructed" areas and the corresponding inaccessible locations. Specific examples will be described later.

[0092] As shown in Fig. 8, the spatial area of ​​the inspection area 100 may be set in advance in accordance with the configuration of the inspection area 100 and the surrounding conditions shown in Fig. 6, etc. The spatial area in which each unit, etc. is installed may also be set. The device configuration data D1, surrounding data D2, or route data D3 shown in Fig. 5 may include information on the correspondence between units, etc. and spatial areas as shown in Fig. 8.

[0093] In FIG. 8 , the front, top, and side surfaces of the housing 190 are each divided into 4×4 regions, as shown as a three-dimensional grid 800. A correspondence between each spatial region and the units and components present therein may be set in advance. Each spatial region has identification information. When creating a path and flow to a destination, the control analysis unit 10 may express the path and flow as a connection between one or more units or components, or may express the path and flow as a connection between spatial regions using spatial regions such as those shown in FIG. 8 .

[0094] 8 shows the division of the spatial region of the housing 190, but similarly, division regions of the spatial region in three dimensions may be set for the surrounding situation region 602 as shown in FIG. 6, and the correspondence with the work place may be managed. When guiding or guiding the user to the location of a unit or the like on a route / flow or the corresponding work place, the inspection device 100 may specify the name / ID of the unit or the like, or may specify the spatial region to be associated.

[0095] For example, spatial region A1 (units, etc. located therein) of the inspection device 100 in Fig. 8 faces the front surface 190A of the housing 190, and is accessible to the user from an area / location on the near side of the front surface 190A. On the other hand, spatial region B1 (units, etc. located therein) facing the right side corresponds to the location adjacent to the "obstructed" region 603 in Fig. 6. Therefore, spatial region B1 (units, etc. located therein) is inaccessible from an area / location on the right side of the right side.

[0096] [Operation when an Apparatus Trouble Occurs] Next, an example of the operation of the inspection apparatus 100 when a trouble occurs in the inspection apparatus 100 will be described. In this example, a case will be mainly described in which, when the inspection apparatus 100 detects the occurrence of a trouble, a unit in an abnormal location, a unit presumed to be the cause, or a unit on which a corrective action is to be taken is set as a target location, and voice guidance is performed. Note that the trigger for voice guidance is not limited to when a trouble is detected. The trigger can also be applied when maintenance work is performed on the inspection apparatus 100, or when the operator inputs a target location and voice guidance instructions at any time.

[0097] 5, information and signals from each device unit 210 are collected and accumulated in a device status information accumulation unit 203. The device status information accumulation unit 203 holds accumulated information (device status information). A device status analysis unit 204 analyzes the device status based on the information (accumulated information) from each device unit 210. As a result, the device status is identified as abnormality / error / caution / check required / notification, etc. Furthermore, corresponding states / operations such as stopping the inspection device 100 or analysis operation or issuing a warning (alert) may occur.

[0098] Regarding such device states, the control and analysis unit 10 controls each device unit 210, and outputs audio through the speech synthesis unit 207 and speech output unit 8, and displays information through the screen display unit 220. For example, when the control and analysis unit 10 determines that a specific abnormality / trouble has occurred, it stops the operation of each unit involved in the analysis operation and outputs a notification of the abnormality / trouble by audio output or display output at least. In the case of audio output, for example, it might say, "An abnormality has occurred. Analysis operation will be stopped."

[0099] [Processing Flow (1)] Figure 7 shows an example of the operation and processing flow when the above-mentioned equipment trouble occurs in the inspection equipment 100. In step S101, information from each part 210 of the equipment is collected in the equipment status accumulation part 203, and the equipment status analysis part 204 analyzes and detects the equipment status such as abnormal operation or stoppage. In addition, if necessary, a notification of the equipment status is output. This causes the flow from step S402 onwards in Figure 7 to operate.

[0100] In step S102, the device state analysis unit 204 estimates the location, cause, and action of the abnormal state when an abnormal state is detected, for example. The location of the abnormal state is a unit or other location within the spatial region of the inspection device 100. Data and information relating to the relationship between these abnormalities, causes, actions, etc. may be set in advance based on design, experience, etc. (action data D4 in FIG. 5, etc.).

[0101] If the control analysis unit 10 can infer the cause of the abnormal state of the equipment trouble, step S103 is started to construct a procedure for solving and dealing with the trouble. In this step S103, two types of search and retrieval are performed: a search for a flow of work procedures (response data D4) for the response stored in the route data accumulation unit 205, and a search for a route to the location where the trouble occurred (and the corresponding work location) (particularly, a search for an optimal route by the route combination unit 206). Step S103 includes step S103A for searching a flow of work procedures and step S103B for searching a route (particularly, an optimal route) to the location where the trouble occurred (e.g., a destination location).

[0102] [Work Procedure Flow and Access Route] Figure 9 is an explanatory diagram showing two concepts and specific examples: a work procedure flow for troubleshooting and an access route to a destination such as a trouble location. These routes and flows have a correspondence relationship. In this example, the left side is the work procedure flow F1, and the right side is the corresponding access route R1.

[0103] In flow F1, for example, the first procedure (referred to as procedure 1) is to confirm the location where the abnormality occurred, the second procedure (procedure 2) is to confirm the location where the abnormality caused, the third procedure (procedure 3) is to take action to address the location where the abnormality caused, and the fourth procedure (procedure 4) is to confirm whether the system has returned to normal. Note that if the location where the abnormality occurred and the location where the abnormality caused are the same location, these can be combined into one procedure.

[0104] If the condition returns to normal after the fourth procedure, i.e., the trouble / abnormality is resolved, flow F1 ends; if the problem is not resolved, the flow transitions to another flow corresponding to another troubleshooting operation, etc.

[0105] Route R1, for example, as a route (route portion) corresponding to step 1, is a route (referred to as route 1) from a predetermined starting point to the location where the abnormality occurred (and the corresponding work location / accessible area). This route 1 may be configured as a route that passes through one or more units or parts. For example, route 1 is a route from a position / location in front of the front of the housing 190, where door A is opened to access unit A inside. Unit A is the location where the abnormality occurred. Note that the starting point / starting position does not need to be included in the route calculated by the control analysis unit 10.

[0106] The predetermined start position is, for example, a predetermined location or place (reference position), such as a location in front of the front surface of the housing 190 or a location in front of the display 20 in Fig. 2. As a modified example, the system may grasp a position that changes in accordance with the movement of the operator, and in that case, the predetermined start position may be the current position of the operator other than the reference position in front of the housing 190. As a technique for grasping the position of the operator, for example, a sensor or indoor positioning technology of the inspection device 100 or position information of the mobile terminal 73 may be used.

[0107] The path (path portion) corresponding to step 2 is a path (referred to as path 2) from the location where the abnormality occurred (and the corresponding work location / accessible area) to the location where the abnormality is caused (and the corresponding work location / accessible area). Similarly, path 2 may be configured as a path that passes through one or more units or parts. For example, path 2 is a path from the location where unit A is accessed, to a location on the back of housing 190, opening door B, and accessing unit B inside. Unit B is the location where the abnormality is caused.

[0108] In step 3, the user performs the corrective action specified in step 3, for example, on unit B, which is the location causing the abnormality. The corrective action is guided, for example, as "Please check part B1 of unit B," "Please remove unit B and replace part B1 with a new one," "Please install the replaced unit B in its original position," etc. In this example, the location causing the abnormality and the corrective action location are the same, but they may also be different.

[0109] The route (route portion) corresponding to step 4 is, for example, the route from the location where the abnormality occurred (i.e., the location where the corrective work is performed) to the location where normality is confirmed (and the corresponding work location / accessible area). Note that if the location where the abnormality occurred and the location where normality is confirmed are the same, this route can be omitted. The location where normality is confirmed may be, for example, a location where the operation and status of another unit different from the location where the abnormality occurred can be visually confirmed, or if the operation and status are confirmed on the screen of display 20 in Figure 2, it may be a location in front of the display 20.

[0110] In Fig. 7, the search for a work procedure flow in step S103A is a process related to the construction of a work procedure flow for the manufacturing unit of the inspection device 100, etc., for identifying the location (abnormal location) of the trouble and its cause, and for taking action to resolve the trouble. One or more work procedures necessary for resolving the trouble are extracted. The order of implementation of the multiple work procedures is also determined according to the causal relationship, etc.

[0111] Furthermore, priorities may be set for locations such as units and work procedures. The control analysis unit 10 of this system may automatically set priorities for locations such as units and work procedures. Alternatively, an operator may set priorities for locations such as units and work procedures by performing a selection operation on a GUI screen. Priority information may be set in the route data D3 or the response data D4 of FIG. 5. For example, the order of multiple work procedures in the flow may be determined or changed depending on the priority setting.

[0112] Priorities may be assigned based on the type and severity of the abnormality, the importance of the unit, the ease / difficulty of the work, etc. For example, when multiple units need to be checked or multiple countermeasures need to be performed, a flow and corresponding routes may be selected and determined based on a determination of which unit's location should be prioritized. For example, if there are three major procedures, the first procedure to be executed with the highest priority is a procedure in which the first unit is accessed via a first route to perform the work. The second procedure to be executed next is a procedure in which the second unit is accessed via a second route to perform the work. The third procedure to be executed last is a procedure in which the third unit is accessed via a third route to perform the work.

[0113] Although the example in Fig. 9 shows basic flows and routes, multiple flows and routes may be created with multiple units as targets (destinations). An order may be selected and set among these flows and routes according to priority.

[0114] It is also possible that there is no particular priority between multiple work procedures or multiple flows / routes, in other words, that they can be executed in any order. In such cases, the system may present multiple work procedures or multiple flows / routes in parallel to the user, allowing the user to select and execute the desired work procedure or flow / routes. Alternatively, the system may select multiple work procedures or multiple flows / routes one by one in a recommended order and present them sequentially.

[0115] In Figure 7, the search for the optimal route to the trouble location (destination location, etc.) in step S103B is a search for a route to that location within the inspection device 100 and a route to a suitable location for the operator to perform work at that location (for example, a work location in the surrounding area in Figure 6). As will be described later, there may be multiple candidate routes to the destination location of a unit, etc., and which route is suitable varies depending on the flow of the work procedure, etc. In some cases, the shortest route in terms of distance is best, and in other cases, a longer route that makes work easier is better. Furthermore, as mentioned above, accessible routes and suitable routes vary depending on the surrounding conditions, etc.

[0116] In the route search in step S103B, if there are any inaccessible locations or areas based on the surrounding conditions input in advance ( FIG. 6 ), a route that does not use those locations or areas is searched for. As will be described later, the optimal route will differ depending on the presence or absence of obstacles. The optimal route is selected and determined taking into consideration the surrounding conditions, priority, etc. If multiple candidate routes are extracted as a result of the route search, the route that is determined to be the most suitable from a predetermined perspective will be the optimal route. If multiple candidate routes are extracted, the control analysis unit 10 may prioritize the multiple candidate routes from a predetermined perspective. The control analysis unit 10 may select a route to present to the user from the prioritized candidate routes.

[0117] The process of constructing a procedure for resolving a problem in step S103 is performed in the following order: first, a search for a work procedure flow in step S103A, and then, a search for an optimal route in step S103B. This makes it possible to construct an efficient procedure, i.e., an optimal route and flow.

[0118] In step S103B, the route combination unit 206 in FIG. 5 searches for an optimal route from one location to another based on the route data D3, etc. When an operator needs to access or move from one location (corresponding work location) to the next location (corresponding work location) in the inspection device 100 and surrounding conditions, the optimal route is searched for. The route combination unit 206 creates the most efficient route from a predetermined perspective as the optimal route based on a combination of basic routes (route segments) contained in the route data D3. Examples of basic routes (route segments) contained in the route data D3 include, for example, a route that allows access to unit A with an open door from the work location, or a route that allows access to unit B from unit A, based on the device configuration data D1 and surrounding data D2.

[0119] The route combination unit 206 searches the response data D4 in the route data collection unit 205, extracts the necessary work procedures for units such as abnormal locations, and combines them to create a single optimal flow. The route combination unit 206 stores optimal flow data D6 including the created optimal flow in memory resources.

[0120] The route combination unit 206 extracts multiple route segments and intermediate locations as a result of searching (e.g., performing a primary search) the route data D3 in the route data accumulation unit 205, and combines them to create a single route (optimal route). Furthermore, if the search results in multiple candidate routes, the route combination unit 206 may prioritize the candidates and select and determine the candidate with the highest priority as the optimal route. The route combination unit 206 stores optimal route data D5 including the created optimal route in memory resources.

[0121] [Route Concept] Figure 10 illustrates the concept of a route for easy understanding. First, as shown in route concept A, one optimal route may have multiple route segments and intermediate locations that are passed through in sequence from a start location to a destination location. In the illustrated example, from a start location L0, the route passes through a first route segment r1 to reach an intermediate location L1. From the intermediate location L1, the route passes through a second route segment r2 to reach an intermediate location L2. From the intermediate location L2, the route passes through a third route segment r3 to reach a destination location L3. Each location / location may be a work site, a unit, etc.

[0122] Furthermore, as shown in route concept B, there may be multiple separate route candidates from the starting point to the destination. In the illustrated example, there are three candidate routes R1, R2, and R3 from the starting position L0 to the destination position L3. Route R1 is similar to route R1 in route concept A. Route R2 is a route that travels from the starting position L1 through a first route portion r4 to an intermediate position L4, and then travels from the intermediate position L4 through a second route portion r5 to the destination position L3. Route R3 is a route that travels from the starting position L1 through a first route portion r6 to an intermediate position L5, travels from the intermediate position L5 through a second route portion r7 to an intermediate position L6, and then travels from the intermediate position L6 through a third route portion r8 to the destination position L3.

[0123] The route combination unit 206 searches for and plans one or more optimal routes, including these two route concepts.

[0124] After step S103, the inspection device 100 provides voice guidance to the operator based on the determined information. In step S104, the control and analysis unit 10 starts voice guidance. The support for the operator includes at least voice guidance via voice output, and may additionally include visual guidance via a screen display. The control and analysis unit 10 provides voice guidance via the voice synthesis unit 207 and the voice output unit 8 in FIG. 2 based on the determined work procedure flow (optimal flow) and the information on the corresponding optimal route.

[0125] 7, for example, in step S104, the control analysis unit 10 starts voice guidance in response to a request / instruction to start input by the operator. The operator inputs the request / instruction by voice (e.g., "start voice guidance," "start," etc.) or inputs the request / instruction on the screen of the screen display unit 220 (e.g., "start voice guidance" button).

[0126] In step S105, the inspection device 100 provides audio guidance to the destination location and the corresponding work location. The control and analysis unit 10 outputs the audio guidance using the voice synthesis unit 207 and the voice output unit 8. In this case, the audio guidance is not provided in the order searched for by the processor during processing, but rather, first, in step S105, audio guidance is provided along the optimal route to the destination location, such as the trouble location, and then, in step S106, audio guidance is provided for the work procedure corresponding to the destination location (for example, to identify the cause and perform a corrective action).

[0127] In addition, in this case, if the route to the destination or the flow of work procedures is specifically composed of multiple route segments or multiple work procedures, voice guidance is provided by repeating the process sequentially for each of the configured route segments or work procedures.

[0128] If the operator performs the work according to the flow and the apparatus trouble is resolved (YES), the inspection apparatus 100 resumes its operation in step S107.

[0129] In the audio guidance of the work procedure in step S106, audio is output to inform the operator of the work procedure. The inspection device 100 accepts audio input (or input on the display screen) from the operator to indicate completion / confirmation of the work procedure for each work procedure on the flow, in other words, for each location on the route. This input of completion / confirmation is an essential procedure / action in this embodiment. In other words, this input of completion / confirmation is the input of a request regarding the next work procedure. In step S108, the inspection device 100 inputs an audio response of this completion / confirmation from the operator. When the inspection device 100 receives this audio input of the completion / confirmation response, it proceeds to step S105 and provides audio guidance for the next route / work procedure.

[0130] When the completion / confirmation is input by voice, the input is processed through the voice input unit 9, voice storage unit 201, character conversion unit 202, etc. shown in FIG. 5 . The analysis control unit 10 converts the voice input through the voice input unit 8 into text using the character conversion unit 202. The analysis control unit 10 compares the converted text with keywords in the keyword list 202B and sends information on matching keywords to the device status information accumulation unit 203. The keyword list 202B contains predetermined keywords and phrases related to the inspection device 100, inspections, maintenance work, etc. The device status analysis unit 204 analyzes consistency from combinations of keywords, etc. based on the information from the device status information accumulation unit 203, and recognizes predetermined instructions, etc. Voice data not related to the keyword list 202B can be excluded, which reduces the analysis process and is expected to improve system efficiency.

[0131] The completion / confirmation input may be an input other than a voice input, for example, an input via the screen display unit 220 (computer system 200 in FIG. 2 ) or an input using another operation unit. That is, when display guidance on the screen of the screen display unit 220 is used in combination, a completion / confirmation button or the like is provided on the screen for each work procedure along with display guidance information. The user presses the button. In another example, a predetermined hardware button provided on the inspection device 100 or a hardware button on the operator's mobile terminal 73 or the like may be used.

[0132] 11 is an X-Y plan view from above showing an example of the correspondence between the destination location / task target location of a unit, etc., and the location where the operator will perform work when a problem occurs in the inspection device 100. The work location here refers to the location in the area surrounding the housing 190 where the operator moves or stays, and the location where the operator will perform work or operations on a location such as a unit. The location where the operator will perform work is assumed depending on the intermediate location on the route / flow, the destination location, etc.

[0133] As an example of the surrounding conditions in Fig. 11, a white area 1101 corresponds to "no obstacles" and is an area that the operator can enter (in other words, an area that the operator can move or stay in), and a gray area 1102 corresponds to "obstacles present" and is an area that the operator cannot enter (in other words, an area that the operator cannot move or stay in). Area 1101 is a candidate for a location on the route where work can be performed, but area 1102 is excluded from the candidate locations for work. In this example, the right-hand side of right side surface 190D of housing 190 is area 1102, which is "obstacles present."

[0134] In the area 1100 of the inspection device 100, for example, the location / position where unit A is located faces the front surface 190A of the housing 190 and is accessible through a door or the like. A candidate location for performing work on unit A is location A in front of unit A.

[0135] Furthermore, for example, the location / position of unit B faces the left side surface 190B of the housing 190, but there is no corresponding door or the like, and it is inaccessible from the left side surface 190B (corresponding location B). In this case, for example, location B', which is in front of the location of unit B in the Y direction, and location B" which is behind the location of unit B are candidates as work execution locations for the location of unit B. The work execution location may be selected depending on the presence or absence of doors or the like on the front surface 190A, rear surface 190C, left side surface 190B, etc. of the housing 190. For example, location B may be selected if there is a door on the left side surface 190B of unit B, location B' may be selected if there is a door on the front surface 190A, and location B" may be selected if there is a door on the rear surface 190C.

[0136] The system may select a more suitable location for performing work, taking into consideration the configuration of the inspection device 100 (the relative positions of units, doors, etc.). For example, it may determine which direction is more suitable for accessing unit B in order to check the status of unit B or to perform corrective work. For example, location B may be selected if it is better to visually observe unit B from the left side surface 190B toward the right in the X direction; location B' may be selected if it is better to visually observe unit B from the front in the Y direction; and location B'' may be selected if it is better to visually observe unit B from the rear.

[0137] Furthermore, the location where the work is performed may be selected based on the positional relationship of the destination unit with other nearby units and other objects. For example, suppose unit C is the destination. Another unit D is installed in front of unit C in the Y direction. Assume that unit C is accessible by doors or the like on both the front 190A and rear 190C sides. In this case, since unit D is interposed on the route to access unit C from the front side in the Y direction, it is necessary to first access unit D as an intermediate location. For example, it may be necessary to move unit D temporarily. On the other hand, suppose that the route to access unit C from the rear side in the Y direction does not involve other units and allows immediate access to unit C. Therefore, location C' may be selected over location C as the preferred location for performing the work at unit C's location.

[0138] Also, for example, assume that the destination location is unit E. Unit E faces right side 190D of housing 190, but due to the aforementioned obstacle (area 1102), unit E cannot be directly accessed from right side 190D. In this case, location E on the front side of unit E in the Y direction and location E' on the rear side are candidates. From these candidates, the better one is selected from predetermined perspectives such as the number of units to be passed through, the distance to be passed through, and ease of work.

[0139] [Multiple Routes for Multiple Destinations] Furthermore, when a problem occurs and there are multiple destinations, multiple routes may be used. A route that visits the multiple destinations may be selected and created to maximize overall efficiency. For example, assume that a flow F1 as shown in FIG. 9 and a corresponding route R1 are required. Route R1 has routes 1, 2, and 3 as route segments, each of which has a destination (which may be considered an intermediate location). For example, assume that the destination of route 1 in step 1 is unit A, where the abnormality occurred; the destination of route 2 in step 2 is unit B, where the abnormality is caused; and the destination of route 2 in step 3 is unit C, where the corrective work is to be performed.

[0140] In this case, as shown in route 1201 in FIG. 12 , it is possible to create three routes (RA, RB, RC) from the same predetermined start position L0 (reference position, e.g., in front of the front surface 190A) to the positions (LA, LB, LC) of each destination (unit A, B, C). On the other hand, a more efficient route may be one in which a certain destination is used as a new start position and the next destination is reached. Efficient routes may be routes that combine as many common route segments as possible, routes that minimize travel distances, or routes that minimize the number of via-points and steps. For example, as shown in route 1202 in FIG. 12 , an overall efficient route may be created by connecting a route segment rA from the start position L0 to work location A (position LA) of unit A, a route segment rB from work location A to work location B (position LB) of unit B, and a route segment rC from work location B to work location C (position LC) of unit C.

[0141] [Optimal Route / Optimal Flow] Figure 13 shows an example of a route in an X-Y plan view viewed from above as a concept and specific example of an optimal route. In this example, the destination location corresponding to a certain work procedure (checking for anomalies and their causes, carrying out corrective work, etc.) is assumed to be the location / position of unit X inside the housing 190. As a result of the optimal route search in step S103B of Figure 7, routes k1 to k7, for example, are extracted as multiple candidate routes. These routes are extracted as routes that are realistically accessible to the operator, taking into account the configuration of the inspection device 100 and obstacles. An example of taking obstacles into account will be described later.

[0142] For example, path k1 is a path accessed from location 1 on the front surface 190A, passing through other units (A, H) on the way to unit X. Path k2 is a path accessed from location 2 on the front surface 190A, passing through other units (B) on the way to unit X. Path k3 is a path accessed from location 3 on the front surface 190A, passing through other units (C, D) on the way to unit X. Path k4 is a path accessed from location 4 on the left side surface 190B, passing through other units (D) on the way to unit X. Path k5 is a path accessed from location 5 on the rear surface 190C, passing through other units (E, D) on the way to unit X. Path k6 is a path accessed from location 6 on the rear surface 190C, passing through other units (F) on the way to unit X. Route k7 is a route accessed from location 7 on the rear surface 190C, and passes through other units (G, H) on the way to unit X.

[0143] The route combination unit 206 in FIG. 5 extracts these candidate routes and selects and calculates the optimal route from the candidates. When making the calculation, various viewpoints and conditions may be taken into consideration. The viewpoints and conditions to be considered may be designed / set in advance by the system. Alternatively, if multiple viewpoints and conditions are applicable, the system or an operator may select and set one or more viewpoints and conditions to be applied. When multiple viewpoints and conditions are applied, logical product (AND) or logical sum (OR) may be used, or an evaluation score may be calculated for each candidate route.

[0144] The viewpoints and conditions include, for example, the necessity of operating doors or the like for access, the number of units to be passed through, the distance to be passed through, the ease / difficulty of the work procedure, etc. Examples of the ease / difficulty of the work procedure include the fact that some units require time and effort to install / remove, that some units require attention to heat, cold, contamination, electrical connections, etc., and that some units should be maintained or fixed in their installed state as much as possible. The units that make up the inspection device 100 include units that generate heat, units that are cooled, units such as fans and heat sinks, units that handle liquids such as system water, and units that require contamination prevention, and each unit has its own characteristics and required conditions. For example, units that require contamination prevention require working with protective gloves and protective clothing. In this embodiment, the path / flow can be selected according to the characteristics and conditions of the units.

[0145] [Route Segments and Work Procedures] Figure 14 shows an example of audio guidance based on an optimal route and optimal flow, in which a route to a destination or work procedure is specifically composed of multiple route segments and steps, with audio guidance being provided sequentially for each route segment and step. The X-Y plan view at the top of Figure 14 shows an example of an optimal route. The flow at the bottom shows an example of a work procedure flow corresponding to the optimal route. For example, assume that the destination is the location of unit X. As a result of calculation, the optimal route is determined to be route k5 of the routes shown in Figure 13. Route k5 has a first route segment r1, in which door d5 is opened from location 5 on the back surface 190C to access unit E and perform work; a second route segment r2, in which unit E accesses unit D and performs work; and a third route segment r3, in which unit D accesses unit X and performs work. During audio guidance along this optimal route, the destination / intermediate locations change in the following order: location 5, unit E, unit D, and unit X.

[0146] In the flow of work procedures (optimal flow), for example, step 1 is to go to location 5 on the back 190C and open door d5. Step 2 is to check unit E inside door d5 and move unit E for work. Step 3 is to check unit D behind unit E and move unit D for work. Step 4 is to check unit X, which should be on the left hand side from the position of unit D, and confirm the abnormal state of unit X, which is the abnormal location. Step 5 is to remove and replace unit X as a countermeasure when unit X is in abnormal state A. For example, the transition from step 1 to step 2 corresponds to path portion r1.

[0147] When providing voice guidance corresponding to such an optimal route and optimal flow, the inspection device 100 outputs voice guidance on the content of the steps, etc., for each route portion and step in sequence. For example, in step 1, a voice output such as "Go to location 5 on the back and open door d5" is output. After the operator moves and works according to the guidance and inputs the above-mentioned confirmation answer (step S108), in step 2, a voice output such as "Check unit E and move it" is output. Similarly, a voice output is output for each step, and the operator works while checking the instructions.

[0148] [Voice Guidance] Figure 15 shows an example of voice output during voice guidance. The vertical axis represents time series, the left side represents the voice output from the system, and the right side represents the voice input from the user. The inspection device 100 outputs voice guidance information for each work step in the optimal route and flow. The operator moves and performs work according to the voice guidance information for each work step, and inputs voice completion / confirmation for each work step (step S108 in Figure 7). In the example of Figure 15, first, as an alert in response to the detection of an equipment trouble, a voice 1501 is output stating, "An equipment trouble has occurred. It is suspected that an abnormality has occurred in unit X. Please take corrective action" (step S101).

[0149] In response, the user inputs voice 1502 such as "Start voice guidance" (step S104). In response, the inspection device 100 outputs voice 1503 such as "Procedure 1. Go to position 5 on the back and open door d5" (steps S105 and S106). In response, the user moves and performs work, and when it is determined that the work in procedure 1 is complete, it inputs voice 1504 such as "Complete" (step S108). In response, the inspection device 100 outputs voice such as "Procedure 2. Check unit E and move it." In response, the user performs work, and when it is determined that the work in procedure 2 is complete, it inputs voice 1505 such as "Complete." The same process continues.

[0150] [Display Guidance] FIG. 16 shows an example of display information for display guidance on the screen of the display 20 in FIG. 2. The inspection device 100 outputs display guidance information for each work step in the optimal route and flow. The operator moves and performs work according to the display guidance information for each work step and presses the complete / confirm button for each work step. In this example, first, a message 1600 appears on the screen as an alert in response to the detection of an equipment trouble, such as "An equipment trouble has occurred. It is suspected that an abnormality has occurred in unit X. Please perform the necessary work." The inspection device 100 then displays a message 1601 on the screen, such as "Step 1. Go to location 5 on the back and open door d5." The user moves and performs work in response to the message 1601, and when they determine that the work in step 1 is complete, they press the "Complete (OK)" button.

[0151] In response, the inspection device 100 next displays a message 1602 such as "Procedure 2: Check unit E and move it." When displaying Procedure 2 1602, the display 1601 for the completed Procedure 1 may be erased or may be grayed out to make it less noticeable. The user performs the work in response to the display 1602, and when the user determines that the work in Procedure 2 is complete, the user presses the "Complete (OK)" button. The same applies hereafter. Each work step may also include a display of detailed information. For example, an image / video visually representing details of the work step, the corresponding route, the configuration of the inspection device 100, and the like may be displayed. In this example, a "Details" button is also provided, and when the user presses the "Details" button, detailed information corresponding to that step is displayed. For example, in Procedure 1, a map such as a top view of the rear location 5, as shown in FIG. 13, may be displayed as detailed information, or a virtual view image such as a view of the rear door 5A in the Y direction may be displayed.

[0152] The device status information accumulation unit 203 in Fig. 5 accumulates signal information and the like from each device unit 210. Based on this information, the device status analysis unit 204 can analyze and check the status of the inspection device 100, such as normal operation, abnormal operation, or shutdown. If an abnormal state occurs in the inspection device 100, an alert or the like regarding the abnormal state can be displayed on the screen display unit 220 or output as a sound from the sound output unit 8. For example, this is sound 1501 in Fig. 15 or display 1600 in Fig. 16.

[0153] When the user inputs a confirmation response for each step during the audio guidance shown in FIG. 15 or the display guidance shown in FIG. 16, the case where the task is incomplete or unclear will be described later.

[0154] As described above, the testing device user can use voice guidance to check for abnormalities in the testing device 100 and resolve the problem, allowing them to efficiently perform their work by following the voice guidance. In a typical testing device, even if information about the problem is output when a device problem occurs, an inexperienced operator may not understand the problem. In such cases, the operator must refer to the device manual or other documentation to resolve the problem. Even though device operation can be resumed with a simple procedure, the device may be stalled for a long time. Furthermore, depending on the condition of the testing device, samples may be wasted. In this embodiment, voice guidance is provided to address such situations, allowing an inexperienced operator to efficiently resolve the problem.

[0155] [Examples of Surrounding Conditions for Device Installation] Figure 17 shows examples in which suitable paths and flows vary depending on the configuration of the inspection device 100 and the surrounding conditions for the device installation. Example 1 shows a case in which there are no obstacles in the X and Y directions, i.e., in the lateral direction including the front, back, left, and right, as the surrounding conditions for the housing 190 of the inspection device 100 in the usage environment. The white area is an "obstacle-free" area where a user can enter and perform work. Unit X is an example of a destination location in the event of a problem. Unit X is located inside the housing 190, close to the right side 190D in the X direction and in the middle in the Y direction. In Example 1, other units A and B are located in front and behind unit X. Also, a door d1 is provided on the front 190A, a door d2 is provided on the back 190C, and a door d3 is provided on the right side 190D, all of which can be opened and closed.

[0156] Here, the predetermined start position / reference position is the initial position of the operator, the start position on the path and flow, which is the position L0, which is a position in front of the front surface 190A. This start position / reference position can be set appropriately in this system.

[0157] In Example 1, because there are no obstacles in the vicinity, areas A1, B1, D1, etc. are all available as work locations. Furthermore, because door d3 is present, unit X is accessible from the right side surface 190D. The control analysis unit 10 calculates a suitable route and flow based on the configuration of the inspection device 100 and the surrounding conditions. As a result, in Example 1, the suitable route (optimal route) is, for example, route 1701. Route 1701 is a route from position L0 to work location D1, opening door d3 on the right side surface 190D, and accessing unit X, which is the destination location. The work procedure flow corresponding to route 1701 is, for example, a flow in which door d3 is opened from work location D1 to access unit X, an abnormality is confirmed for unit X, a corrective work procedure is performed on unit X, door d3 is then closed, and the display 20 in FIG. 2 is used to check whether the abnormality has been resolved or whether the unit has returned to normal.

[0158] In Example 1, if the right side 190D does not have door d3, a different route / flow can be used. For example, one route is to go to work area A1 on the front 190A, open door d1, first access unit A, move unit A, and then access unit X. Another route is to go to work area B1 on the back 190C, open door d2, first access unit B, move unit B, and then access unit X. The control analysis unit 10 selects a suitable route / flow in consideration of factors such as route length, required time, efficiency, and ease / difficulty of the work. Furthermore, if there are multiple possible routes / flows, it is also possible to propose multiple routes / flows by prioritizing them.

[0159] Example 2 shows a case where there is an obstacle on the right side 190D. Area 1700 is an "obstacle present" area. In this case, work area D1 and door d3, as in Example 1, cannot be used. The control analysis unit 10 considers such surrounding conditions and plans a suitable route and flow. The control analysis unit 10 determines that work area D1, door d3, etc. are unavailable and excludes from the candidates any route or flow that requires such work area or location. As a result, in Example 2, one suitable route (optimal route) is, for example, route 1702. Route 1702 is a route from position L0 to work area A1 on the front 190A, opens door d1, first accesses unit A, moves unit A, and then accesses unit X. The work procedure flow corresponding to route 1702 is, for example, a flow in which unit A is moved, an abnormality is confirmed for unit X, a corrective work procedure is performed, unit A is returned to its original position, and door d1 is closed.

[0160] Furthermore, depending on the configuration and circumstances of the inspection device 100, there may be cases where door d1 is not available, or unit A cannot be moved, or the work procedures for unit A are time-consuming, or the work procedures for unit A are difficult for anyone other than an experienced worker. In this case, another route is, for example, route 1703. Route 1703 is a route in which one goes from position L0 to work location B1 on the back surface 190C, opens door d2, first accesses unit B, moves unit B, and then accesses unit X. In this way, an appropriate route / flow can be selected depending on the configuration and circumstances of the inspection device 100.

[0161] As described above, some of the units constituting the inspection device 100 are easy for users to access when performing work, while others are difficult or inaccessible due to obstacles or their relative positions to other units. Units located deep inside the housing 190 may be inaccessible only after first accessing and moving other units in the vicinity. Furthermore, if there are obstacles around the housing 190 due to the usage environment, an alternative route or flow must be considered for units that are difficult or inaccessible directly. In this embodiment, even in such cases, it is possible to propose a suitable route or flow, allowing even inexperienced users to perform efficient work.

[0162] [Other Examples of Surrounding Conditions for Device Installation] Figure 18 shows other examples of surrounding conditions for device installation, where the inspection device 100 is configured as an assembly / combination of multiple modules. Example 1 shows a case where the inspection device 100 is configured as a combination of a control module 100A and an analysis module 100B. The analysis module 100B is connected adjacent to the control module 100A on the left side in the X direction. A computer system 200 equipped with a display 20 is disposed on the top surface of the control module 100A as an operation / display unit. As an example of surrounding conditions, an obstacle such as a building wall is located in front of the rear surface 190C of the housing 190. A transport unit T is disposed between the modules near the rear surface 190C.

[0163] Unit X is an example of a destination location and a location to be worked on. Route 1801 is an example of a suitable route in the surrounding circumstances of Example 1. Route 1801 is a route to go to work location B1 on the left side of analysis module 100B, open door d2, and access unit X.

[0164] In Example 2, the inspection device 100 is configured by combining the control module 100A and analysis module 100B of Example 1 with an additional analysis module 100C. The analysis module 100C is connected adjacent to the left side of the analysis module 100B. The transport module T is extended so as to span the analysis module 100C. The same destination as in Example 1 is unit X. In Example 2, it is difficult to access the left side of the analysis module 100B. Route 1802 is an example of a suitable route for the surrounding circumstances of Example 2. Route 1802 is a route in which you go to work area A1 in front of the analysis module 100B, open door d1, first access unit A, and then access unit X.

[0165] The testing device 100 can provide voice guidance corresponding to the configuration of the testing device 100. The control and analysis unit 10 (voice guidance function) creates a route to the destination and a work procedure flow based on information about the configuration of the testing device 100 (device configuration data D1). For example, differences in configuration include the presence or absence and arrangement of each unit between a biochemical analyzer with certain specifications and an immunological analyzer with certain specifications. Furthermore, as in the above example, the addition or deletion of modules is also managed as part of the configuration of the testing device 100. The testing device 100 creates the optimal route and flow taking into account the addition or deletion of modules and the surrounding conditions.

[0166] As described above, in this embodiment, it is possible to propose an appropriate route / flow even when the configuration of the inspection device 100 is changed and the surrounding circumstances change accordingly. Different routes / flows can be proposed before and after the configuration change.

[0167] In the various examples described above, a route to a destination is selected and generated taking into account the horizontal X and Y directions, but this is not limited to this; a route taking into account the Z direction can also be selected and generated in the same manner.

[0168] [When there are multiple possible causes] When an equipment trouble occurs, there may be cases where the inspection device 100 cannot identify a single cause of the abnormality, etc. In this case, the inspection device 100 confirms with the operator using voice guidance corresponding to the configuration of the path / flow, and while receiving confirmation input from the operator, it is possible to gradually identify the cause of the trouble, etc., and to guide the operator to take corrective action, etc., according to the identified cause, etc. In this case, the path / flow is configured to include multiple possibilities and branches, etc., regarding the cause of the abnormality, etc., and the causes are narrowed down according to the confirmation input by the operator (step S108).

[0169] Fig. 19 shows an example of a processing flow when there are multiple possible causes, and Fig. 20 shows an example of a unit that is presumed to be the cause and an example of a corresponding work procedure flow when there are multiple possible causes.

[0170] In FIG. 19 , similarly to FIG. 7 , in step S201, the analysis control unit 10 detects an abnormal state, such as abnormal operation or shutdown, of the inspection device 100 based on information from each device unit 210. In step S202, the device status analysis unit 204 estimates the location of the abnormal state and the corresponding cause location when an abnormal state is detected. If the device status analysis unit 204 cannot identify a single cause, it estimates multiple candidate causes (possible causes) that are estimated to be possible causes. In this case, the device status analysis unit 204 calculates an order of likelihood for the multiple candidate causes (possible causes). For example, if there are M possible causes, the order of likelihood is as follows: possible cause 1, possible cause 2, ..., possible cause M.

[0171] Examples of cases in which multiple possible causes are selected include when multiple abnormalities are observed in the signal from the inspection device 100, or when multiple causes are estimated based on a combination of signal abnormalities.

[0172] In constructing a work procedure for resolving the problem in step S203, the device status analysis unit 204 searches for a work procedure and an optimal route for accessing the trouble location based on the selected possible cause. For example, there are processes according to the number of possible causes, such as step S203-1 for processing possible cause 1 and step S203-2 for processing possible cause 2.

[0173] If multiple possible causes are selected, in step S203, the search and exploration results for the multiple possible causes are compiled into a single route / flow to construct a route / flow for voice guidance. An example of this is shown in Figure 20.

[0174] In FIG. 20 , as a result of the estimation, as shown at the top, there are three possible causes, in descending order of likelihood: unit A with possible cause 1, unit B with possible cause 2, and unit C with possible cause 3. A single integrated optimal path and corresponding flow, for example, is as follows: As shown at the bottom, in the flow, step 1 is confirmation of unit A with possible cause 1. This step 1 specifically includes subflow f1. Subflow f1 is a flow for accessing and confirming unit A, and includes, for example, step 1-1 for accessing and confirming unit G, step 1-2 for accessing and confirming unit A, etc. If the operator confirms unit A with possible cause 1 in step 1 and identifies it as the cause, the operator takes corrective action. As a result of step 1, the inspection apparatus 100 determines in decision step 2001 whether the trouble has been resolved. If it is determined that the trouble has been resolved (YES), the flow ends. If it is determined that unit A is not the cause and the trouble has not been resolved (NO), the flow proceeds to step 2.

[0175] Step 2 is the confirmation of unit B, which is cause possibility 2. This step 2 specifically includes subflow f2. Subflow f2 includes, for example, step 2-1, in which unit B is accessed from unit A and unit B is confirmed. In this example, the route for accessing unit B passes through units G, A, and B in that order. Since unit G and unit A have already been accessed and work completed in step 1, unit B can then be accessed directly from unit A. If the operator confirms unit B, which is cause possibility 2 in step 2, and identifies unit B as the cause, corrective work is carried out. If, as a result of step 2, the inspection apparatus 100 determines in decision step 2002 that the trouble has been resolved, the flow ends. If it is determined that unit B is not the cause and the trouble cannot be resolved, the flow proceeds to step 3.

[0176] Step 3 is to check unit C, which is possible cause 3. This step 3 specifically has subflow f3. Subflow f3 includes, for example, step 3-1 for accessing and checking unit F, and step 3-2 for accessing and checking unit C. If the operator checks unit C, which is possible cause 3, in step 3 and identifies it as the cause, they take corrective action. If, as a result of step 3, the inspection device 100 determines in decision step 2003 that the trouble has been resolved, the flow ends. If it determines that unit C is not the cause and the trouble has not been resolved, the flow proceeds to the next step or another flow.

[0177] 20 shows a case where multiple possible causes are in different units, but this is not limiting; multiple possible causes may be in the same unit. In this case, the inspection device 100 creates an optimal route for the same unit with multiple possible causes as the destination and provides voice guidance to that unit. Then, at that unit, multiple work procedures corresponding to the multiple possible causes are performed in descending order of likelihood, with confirmation input from the user.

[0178] After a single integrated route / flow is created for multiple possible causes in the construction in step S203, voice guidance is initiated in step S204 in response to an operator's request. Voice guidance to the destination is provided in step S205, and voice guidance for the work procedure corresponding to the destination is provided in step S206. In step S208, the operator inputs a completion / confirmation response, for example, by voice, for each work procedure in step S206. In response to this input response, the inspection device 100 proceeds to step S205 and voice guidance for the next route / work procedure is provided.

[0179] After performing a work procedure at a certain location / position / location, if the next work procedure requires movement to a unit or other location different from the current location, as described above, if there are multiple candidate routes, the inspection device 100 will propose the most efficient route as the optimal route and provide voice guidance.

[0180] In the processing flow of FIG. 19 , in step S203, a single integrated optimal route and flow (e.g., FIG. 20 ) are constructed taking multiple possible causes into consideration, and then the operator is guided by voice guidance along the optimal route and flow. This is not limited to this, and a modified example may be as follows. In step S203, the inspection device 100 first constructs an optimal route and flow (first route and flow) for one possible cause (first possible cause) estimated to be the most likely, and provides voice guidance. If, based on the operator's response input (step S208), it is determined that the first possible cause was not the cause (in other words, if the trouble has not been resolved), the inspection device 100 returns to step S203, constructs an optimal route and flow (second route and flow) for one possible cause (second possible cause) estimated to be the next most likely, and provides voice guidance. In this way, routes and flows may be constructed / updated sequentially in accordance with the operator's work, judgment, and response input. In this case, when the optimum route / flow construction process is carried out again in step S203, the part relating to the work procedure that has already been executed is removed, and a work procedure relating to other possible causes for resolving the problem is constructed.

[0181] In an example where multiple possible causes are located in the same unit (e.g., unit X), first, the operator is guided by voice to the location of unit X, and then work procedure 1 for possible cause 1 is guided by voice. The operator performs work procedure 1 and determines, for example, whether there is an abnormality. The operator inputs, for example, "abnormal" or "no abnormality" as a response (step S208). If "abnormal" is input, possible cause 1 is identified as the cause, and the operator will transition to a corresponding work procedure or the like that corresponds to this cause. If "no abnormality" is input, possible cause 1 is determined not to be the cause, and work procedure 2 for the next possible cause 2 is guided by voice. This process continues in the same manner.

[0182] As described above, in the case of Figure 19, for multiple possible causes, the operator can check the causes in descending order of likelihood and take corrective action in the integrated path / flow. This allows even an inexperienced user to work efficiently, resolve the problem, and shorten the time until the device resumes operation.

[0183] In the first embodiment, the construction of a work procedure (route / flow) for troubleshooting basically depends on the contents of the route data D3, etc. stored in the route data accumulator 205 of FIG. 5 and is limited to the content that the operator can handle. For content not stored in the route data D3, etc., in the route data accumulator 205, a service technician of the inspection device 100 can also handle it specially. That is, the route data D3 and the countermeasure data D4, etc., in the route data accumulator 205 can be updated to the latest versions in response to changes or updates to the configuration (hardware and software) of the inspection device 100 or updates to the trouble analysis information. Furthermore, when the inspection device 100 is connected to an external server 72, etc. (FIG. 2), the inspection device 100 can download the latest information (data and programs, such as the route data D3) stored in the external server 72, etc., and update the route data D3, etc., in the route data accumulator 205. Alternatively, the inspection device 100 can search for and refer to the latest information from the external server 72, etc. The construction of work procedures (paths / flows) for resolving these problems can be done even when the inspection device 100 is not connected to the outside world online (communication), and a speedy response is possible. In an environment where the inspection device 100 is connected to the outside world online (communication), information can be easily shared, and a request for a service technician to respond quickly can also be made.

[0184] [Effects of Embodiment 1, etc.] As described above, according to Embodiment 1, a technology with improved usability can be provided, which allows even operators who are unfamiliar with operating an examination device to receive appropriate support for responding to and resolving device problems, etc. According to Embodiment 1, when a problem occurs with an examination device, voice guidance guides the operator to a location / place appropriate for performing a work procedure on the object, and provides audio guidance on the specific work procedure. This enables even operators who are unfamiliar with operating an examination device to quickly respond to the problem. This rapid response may reduce delays in providing examination reports to medical professionals. Furthermore, by making it easier to respond to device problems, even operators who are unfamiliar with operating an examination device can manage the examination device, thereby providing an examination device with high usability. Furthermore, because the voice guidance from the examination device guides the operator to the optimal location / place and instructs the operator on the work procedure, the operator can quickly understand how to respond to the device problem.

[0185] <Second Embodiment> A description will be given of a second embodiment. The second embodiment has the same basic configuration as the first embodiment, and the following description will mainly focus on the differences.

[0186] Even when voice guidance is provided to resolve a problem, there is a possibility that the problem cannot be resolved due to misunderstandings or mistakes in the work by the operator. Therefore, it is more desirable if the inspection device 100 can output confirmations to the operator or respond to input questions from the operator. In the second embodiment, if the operator becomes unsure of what to do during voice guidance from the inspection device 100 (if the work is unclear), assistance is provided through mutual request-response exchanges between the system and the operator. This resolves the operator's confusion about the work and increases the possibility of resolving the equipment trouble.

[0187] During voice guidance, there may be cases where the user becomes unsure of what to do next while on a route or flow. Even in such cases, this embodiment makes it possible to identify and resolve any unclear points while the user is still on the route or flow, and provide voice guidance toward the next location or work procedure. If the user becomes unsure of a task along the way, they can vocally input that they are unsure of the task (in other words, that they need help). The inspection device receives this input and estimates the location or work procedure the user is currently in on the route or flow. The inspection device performs this estimation by outputting a confirmation (question, etc.) to the user and receiving a voice input of the user's response to the confirmation. The inspection device then outputs voice advice to resolve the user's unclear points and provides voice guidance to the user regarding the next location, work procedure, etc.

[0188] [Processing Flow: When the Operation is Unknown] Fig. 21 shows an example of a processing flow of the inspection device 100 in embodiment 2. Steps S301 to S306 and step S308 are the same as those in Figs.

[0189] For example, suppose that an operator is receiving voice guidance after a problem has occurred and is trying to resolve the problem, but becomes confused about the task while listening to the voice guidance on the route and flow of the work procedure. For the sake of explanation, this is referred to as an "unclear task state." In this case, in step S311, the operator inputs to the inspection device 100 that he or she no longer understands the task (the operator's task unclear state) as a question / confirmation to the inspection device 100. This input can also be made by voice, for example, as with the voice response in step S308 (input of a positive completion).

[0190] The keywords for voice input in step S311 can also be set in the keyword list 202B of Fig. 5. Examples of these keywords include various signals such as "I don't understand XXX," "I don't get it," "The task is unclear," "Question," "Help," "Stop," and "Repeat." These keywords for voice input are registered in advance in the keyword list 202B, but the operator may also be allowed to register and set additional desired keywords.

[0191] For example, if an operator is unsure of the next task to be performed based on the information presented by voice guidance, the operator may vocally input a predetermined keyword such as "stop." The inspection device 100 then records and identifies the location of the task procedure in the voice-guided route / flow at the time of the voice input of "stop." In step S311, the inspection device 100 first confirms with the user, the operator, the location where the user is currently working. This confirmation may be made by voice output from the inspection device 100 (see, for example, FIG. 22 ).

[0192] [Voice Guidance—When Task is Unknown] FIG. 22 shows an example of a request-response voice exchange between the system and the user when the task is unknown. For example, the inspection device 100 outputs a voice 2201 saying, "Procedure X: Operate part X of unit X at location X." If the operator does not fully understand the task indicated by procedure X, the operator inputs a voice 2202 indicating that the task is unknown, such as "Stop" or "I don't understand." When the inspection device 100 recognizes the voice, it outputs a voice 2203 for confirmation to the operator, such as "Is the current task location / workplace XXX?" In response to the confirmation, the operator makes a decision and inputs a voice response 2204, such as "NO." In response to the response, the inspection device 100 outputs a voice 2205 for further confirmation or guidance, such as "Please move to location X where you can see XXX. Can you see XXX?" In response to the confirmation, the operator makes a decision or takes action and inputs a voice response 2206, such as "YES." In response to this answer, the inspection device 100 outputs voice 2207 for further confirmation or guidance, for example, "Unit X has part X at △△△. Is part X in ◇◇◇ state?" In response to this confirmation, the operator makes a decision or takes action and inputs voice 2208 as a response, for example, "YES." In response to this answer, if the inspection device 100 determines that the operator's unclear task has been resolved, it again outputs voice 2209 similar to voice 2201 for guidance on the original procedure X, for example.

[0193] Furthermore, this mutual confirmation exchange when the task is unclear may be carried out by display guidance on the screen display unit 220, or a combination of audio guidance and display guidance. For example, information regarding the confirmation exchange as shown in Fig. 22 may be displayed on the screen of the display 20 in Fig. 2. For example, in association with questions from the system to the user such as audio 2203, 2205, and 2207, an image of a virtual view of the task target area, etc. as seen from the user's viewpoint / work location may be displayed.

[0194] Furthermore, if sensors are provided at the opening and closing points of doors, etc., or in each unit, etc., of the inspection device 100, a function for checking the progress of the flow and route of the work procedure may be realized based on detection signals from the sensors. For example, in FIG. 14 , assume that an operator accesses unit X as a destination from work location 5. In this case, when an operator opens the door on the back surface 190C, the door sensor detects the open / closed state of the door. Furthermore, when the operator operates unit E, a sensor provided in or near unit E detects the operation status of unit E. Based on these signals, the inspection device 100 can grasp the progress and position of the operator's work procedure. Based on this knowledge, the inspection device 100 can provide the operator with guidance and confirmation of the next work procedure.

[0195] Furthermore, when confirming the work location and other details when the work is unclear, even if multiple unclear points arise in a series of work procedures in a route / flow, only the initial confirmation is required. This is due to the following reasons. The reasons why an operator may not be sure what to do when receiving voice guidance for work procedures include the following: Possible reasons for not knowing the target of the work instructions include not knowing the name or object of the target, or not being able to find the target. Therefore, if the operator is initially working in the wrong work location or the wrong work target location, there is a possibility that the correct work procedure is not being followed. To eliminate this possibility, when the operator's work is unclear, the inspection device 100 first (step S312) confirms with the operator the current work location, the target work location, and other details.

[0196] If the inspection device 100 determines, as a result of the check, that the operator has selected the wrong work location, etc., it will guide and direct the operator to the correct work location, work location, etc. in the work procedure of the flow.

[0197] If it is confirmed in step S312 that the work location, work target area, etc. are correct, then in step S313, the inspection device 100 outputs a voice question to the operator regarding the options, such as whether to confirm the work procedure or to confirm the unit / component. For example, a voice such as "Do you want to confirm the work procedure?" is output. The operator responds to the question from the inspection device 100 by voice input. Depending on the input of the response, the process proceeds to step S314 or step S315.

[0198] For example, when confirming a work procedure, in step S315, the inspection device 100 restarts the work procedure from one or more previous work procedures at the work location / target work location of the work procedure for which the unclear work was input by voice, and confirms the work procedure. The number of previous work procedures to resume from may be preset in the system, or may be determined by the operator through voice input. After returning to the set number of previous work procedures, the operator may be able to transition to or adjust the previous or next work procedure through voice input. Furthermore, the system may output the number / ID of the work procedure by voice, or the operator may input the number / ID of the work procedure by voice. The operator can transition to any work procedure on the flow.

[0199] Furthermore, when confirming a unit / component, in step S314, the inspection device 100 may receive a question from the operator via voice input regarding the unit / component for which the operator has made a task unclear in the work procedure in which the unclear task was voice-input. The inspection device 100 outputs a voice response to the operator's question. For example, if the operator inputs, "I don't know unit X / component X," the response output may be, "Unit X / component X is located at..." or the like. In step S314, the inspection device 100 may also display answer information or related information regarding the operator's question on the screen display unit 220. For example, the inspection device 100 may display an image showing the location or operation method of the unit / component, or a virtual view image seen from the user's viewpoint. This allows the operator to confirm and clarify the unit / component, etc., that is the target of the work. After step S314, the process proceeds to step S315.

[0200] Furthermore, the content and scope of questions that the operator can ask via voice input and answers that can be displayed, i.e., the content and scope that can be covered by voice guidance and display guidance, can include not only the general hardware that constitutes the inspection device 100, such as units and components related to work procedures, but also general software and data related to the inspection device 100. For example, various data and information stored within the inspection device 100, such as analysis results (inspection results, analysis results, etc.), device manuals, troubleshooting information, setting methods, and related information, can also be output to the operator. Various data and information stored on servers 72 and other external devices of the inspection device 100 can also be output to the operator. This data and information can be displayed on the screen display unit 220. The inspection device 100 sets the target software, etc., at the destination and creates a path and flow.

[0201] Furthermore, the operator can ask or request the inspection device 100 for the location of the data or information (the location of the destination) by voice input. The inspection device 100 responds to the question or request by voice output or display output of the storage location of the data or information. The operator can access the location of the response to obtain the data or information. In this case, the inspection device 100 constructs a path / flow, similar to the process of constructing the work procedure in step S303, with the storage location of the target data or information as the destination. After construction, the inspection device 100 provides voice or visual guidance along the path / flow. The storage location (the location of the destination) of the software, data, etc. may be an electronic storage location on a computer or storage medium, a location on printed paper, or a location where the data can be viewed on a display screen (typically in front of the display 20). Furthermore, if software or screen operation is required to navigate to the data, guidance on how to operate the GUI or hierarchy of the software or screen may also be provided.

[0202] In response to a question from the operator, it is possible to select and specify as a destination location the location of each unit, such as a pre-processing unit, on the hardware of the inspection device 100. In other words, it is possible to provide guidance and guidance to all elements that make up the inspection device 100 within the range registered and managed in the device configuration data D1, route data D3, etc. of the route data accumulation unit 205 in Fig. 5.

[0203] As described above, in the second embodiment, even if an operator becomes unsure of a task during the flow / route of the work procedure, the work procedure can be clarified by exchanging confirmations between the system of the inspection device 100 and the operator. In the second embodiment, regarding any unclear points regarding the inspection device 100 that may differ depending on the operator, the operator can ask questions by voice to the inspection device 100 and receive a response from the inspection device 100. This makes it easier to resolve unclear points than before. This improves usability and increases the possibility of resolving problems.

[0204] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been specifically described above, they are not limited to the above-described embodiments and can be modified in various ways without departing from the spirit of the present disclosure. Except for essential components, components can be added, deleted, or replaced in each embodiment. Unless otherwise specified, each component may be singular or plural. A combination of each embodiment and its variations is also possible.

[0205] 8: Voice output unit, 9: Voice input unit, 10: Control analysis unit, 100... Inspection device, 201... Voice storage unit, 202... Character conversion unit, 203... Device status information accumulation unit, 204... Device status analysis unit, 205... Route data accumulation unit, 206... Route combination unit, 207... Voice synthesis unit.

Claims

1. A testing device for testing specimens, which, when a destination for the testing device is determined based on input from an operator or an analysis of the state of the testing device, creates a route to the destination and a flow of work procedures corresponding to the route, and provides audio guidance to the operator based on the route and the flow.

2. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the presence or absence of obstacles is set as the surrounding conditions of the housing of the inspection device in the environment in which the inspection device is installed, an area with obstacles is an area where the operator cannot move to perform work, and an area without obstacles is an area where the operator can move to perform work, and the route and the flow are created so as not to use the area with obstacles.

3. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the route has one or more units to be passed through or reached, and the flow has work procedures for each of the one or more units to be passed through or reached, and when providing guidance by voice, the guidance is provided to the operator in the order of the work procedures for each unit on the route and flow, one by one, while confirming with the operator.

4. An inspection device according to claim 3, wherein the inspection device receives voice input from the operator to confirm whether the target location on the route has been reached and the work procedure on the flow has been correctly completed, and when the completion has been confirmed, the inspection device guides the operator to the next location on the route and the next work procedure on the flow.

5. An inspection device according to claim 1, which accepts voice input from the operator, performs voice recognition on the input voice based on predetermined keywords, and starts guidance by the voice or sets the destination location based on the voice recognition results.

6. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the state of the inspection device is analyzed to identify the location where an abnormality has occurred in the inspection device, or the location presumed to be the cause of the abnormality, or the location where corrective work to resolve the abnormality will be performed, and the target location and the work procedure are set based on the identified location.

7. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, as part of an analysis of the state of said inspection device, one or more locations that are estimated to be the possible cause of an abnormality in said inspection device are identified, and if there are multiple identified locations, priorities are assigned in order of likelihood of being the cause, and said possible causing locations are set as said destination locations in said order of priority, and said route and said flow to said destination location are created.

8. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein, during guidance based on the route and the flow, an input from the operator that the task is unclear is received, and when the input that the task is unclear is received, an audio question is output to the operator to ask for confirmation of the unclear point, an answer is input from the operator in response to the question, the unclear point is resolved based on the answer, and the guidance is continued.

9. An inspection device according to claim 8, wherein, during guidance based on the route and the flow, the operator is transitioned from the location and work step at which the operator is currently located on the route and the flow to one or more previous locations and work steps in response to input from the operator.

10. An inspection device according to claim 1, wherein the operator is guided by a screen display based on the route and the flow.

11. An inspection device according to claim 2, wherein, when creating the route and flow to the destination taking into consideration the surrounding conditions, one or more routes that enable access to the destination without using the area with the obstacle are extracted as candidates, and an optimal route is selected from the one or more candidate routes taking into consideration the number of locations or work steps to be passed through, or the distance to be passed through.

12. An inspection device according to claim 2, wherein information on the configuration of the inspection device in the environment in which the inspection device is installed is set, the configuration of the inspection device including the configuration of modules and units that are added or removed, and when creating the route and flow to the destination taking into account the surrounding conditions, an optimal route is selected taking into account the configuration of the inspection device.

13. A voice guidance method executed in a testing device that tests a specimen, comprising: when a destination location for the testing device is identified in response to an input from an operator or an analysis of the state of the testing device, creating a route to the destination location and a flow of work procedures corresponding to the route; and providing voice guidance to the operator based on the route and the flow.

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