Method for configuring portable user equipment, portable user equipment and work system

Abstract

Method for configuring a portable user device (22) to perform subprocesses, wherein the user device (22) is in communication connection with a device server (18) and configuration sets for the user device (22) associated with various subprocesses (T1-T7) are stored on the user device (22), and wherein the method comprises the following steps: - selecting one of the subprocesses (T1-T7) to be executed by the user device (22), and - automatically transferring the configuration of the configuration set associated with the selected subprocess (T1-T7) to the portable user device (22), wherein the user device (22) has a sensor (28), and wherein the subprocess (T1-T7) to be executed by the user device (22) is selected bythat information is read in by means of the sensor (28) and the subprocess (T1-T7) to be selected is determined based on the read in information; and / or wherein the current location of the user equipment (22) is determined and the subprocess (T1-T7) to be executed by the user equipment (22) is selected based on the current location; and / or wherein the current time and / or the user of the user equipment (22) is determined and the subprocess (T1-T7) to be executed by the user equipment (22) is selected based on the current time and / or the user; and / or wherein the user equipment (22) comprises a main device and a secondary device, wherein at least one application is executed on the main device, wherein the application currently being operated on the main device and / or the screen of the application currently being operated is determined, and wherein the subprocess,which is to be executed by the user equipment, is selected based on the currently operated application and / or the currently operated screen.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a method for configuring portable user equipment for carrying out sub-processes, portable user equipment and a working system.

[0002] Work systems that carry out complex processes are known. Typically, some sub-processes or work steps are performed by machines, while other work steps are performed by workers or users.

[0003] The machines can be industrial robots or portable devices such as barcode readers.

[0004] Users can be guided by portable, personalized devices, hereinafter referred to as user equipment, to correctly perform the necessary step in the complex process at that point. For example, such user equipment includes a barcode scanner and a screen display.

[0005] Examples of such work systems are assembly lines for complex products, such as automobiles, or large shipping warehouses.

[0006] The processes or sub-processes carried out with the work systems are usually carefully planned to be as efficient as possible and to ensure the greatest possible process safety and user safety.

[0007] Various subprocesses are defined, each performed by different users. These subprocesses have different requirements for the user equipment. Therefore, it is essential that the user equipment is always correctly configured for each subprocess.

[0008] In principle, different subprocesses within a company can be carried out using the same user equipment. Therefore, depending on the labor requirements for individual subprocesses, the user equipment is often reconfigured to adapt to those specific tasks.

[0009] This can lead to misconfigurations, or the user may change device settings, consciously or unconsciously. As a result, deviations from the intended subprocess occur, reducing the quality of the process and, for example, the quality of the produced product.

[0010] It is therefore an object of the invention to provide a method and user equipment by means of which deviations from the intended sub-processes are reliably avoided.

[0011] The task is solved by a method for configuring portable user equipment to perform subprocesses, wherein the user equipment is in communication with a device server, and the device server stores various subprocesses and the associated configuration sets for the user equipment. The method comprises the following steps: - Selecting one of the subprocesses stored on the device server that should be executed by the user equipment, and - Automatic transfer of the configuration of the configuration set associated with the selected subprocess to the portable user equipment.

[0012] In this case, changes by the user are blocked, at least to parts of the user equipment configuration inherited from the configuration set.

[0013] It is also conceivable that, in addition to the device server administrator, other users have access to the device server, whereby only users with the appropriate rights (and the administrator) can make changes to the configurations or configuration sets. Changes are also blocked for all other users.

[0014] Administrator or another user with appropriate rights. In particular, users W of user equipment 22 are not able to change the configurations of the subprocesses.

[0015] Because the correct configuration is automatically applied after selecting the subprocess and locked against further changes, it is always ensured that the user equipment is correctly configured and that no deviations from the intended process occur. This improves process reliability and thus the quality of the process.

[0016] The configuration is used immediately after being applied.

[0017] For example, a configuration set is provided for each sub-process and for each user equipment and / or each device of the user equipment.

[0018] In particular, within the context of this disclosure, a subprocess is understood to be a predetermined sequence of process steps. For the sake of simplicity, the term "subprocess" is also used within this disclosure when no further subprocesses exist, and the subprocess thus represents the entire process.

[0019] For example, the user equipment carries out the subprocess in conjunction with a process control system, in particular by the user performing the specified process steps with the user equipment and transmitting the results to the process control system.

[0020] In one implementation, the configuration set specifies the parts of the configuration that cannot be changed by the user, and / or the entire user equipment configuration inherited from the configuration set is locked against user changes. This ensures that the user cannot modify critical settings of the user equipment.

[0021] To improve ergonomics, the user equipment may include a garment, in particular a glove, and a sensor and / or information device attached to the garment, the sensor and / or information device using the configuration.

[0022] For example, the garment and / or the sensor and / or information device has at least one input means, in particular a trigger, wherein at least one function of the sensor and / or information device, in particular the sensor, is triggered by actuating the input means when the sensor and / or information device is incorporated into the garment, thereby enabling the sensor and / or information device to be used particularly efficiently.

[0023] In one embodiment, the user equipment comprises a main device and a secondary device, wherein the secondary device is a sensor and / or information device and the main device maintains the communication link with the device server, with the secondary device and / or the main device using the configuration. In this way, the functionality of the user equipment can be extended without increasing the dimensions of the secondary device.

[0024] To provide a versatile main device, the main device can be a portable smart device, in particular a smartphone, tablet, laptop, smartwatch or smartglass.

[0025] Regardless of whether the user equipment includes a main device and a secondary device, the connecting device can be a portable smart device, in particular a smartphone, tablet, laptop, smartwatch or smartglass.

[0026] In one embodiment, the subprocess to be performed by the user equipment is selected by: - Input or selection of the subprocess by the user on the user equipment, in particular on the sensor and / or information device, main device and / or auxiliary device; and / or - Input or selection of the subprocess by an administrator on the device server.

[0027] In this way, the user equipment can be adapted by the user himself to the task to be performed.

[0028] To make selecting the subprocess extremely easy, the user equipment, in particular the sensor and / or information device or auxiliary device, can have a sensor, in particular a barcode reader, and wherein the subprocess to be carried out by the user equipment is selected by reading information, in particular a barcode, using the sensor and determining the subprocess to be selected based on the information read.

[0029] The input information can identify the subprocess and / or the subprocess can be assigned to specific information, e.g., the information is an identifier of a workstation and each subprocess is assigned to one of the workstations.

[0030] Alternatively or additionally, the current location of the user equipment is determined and the subprocess to be executed by the user equipment is selected based on the current location, so that no user input is required.

[0031] For example, the user equipment, in particular the main device, determines the current location and / or wherein the device server determines the current location of the user equipment, in particular wherein the user equipment receives the configuration set associated with the selected subprocess from the device server.

[0032] In one embodiment, the user equipment, in particular the main device, determines the subprocess to be executed by the user equipment based on its current location, specifically by retrieving the configuration set associated with the selected subprocess. This allows location determination to be carried out easily using components of the user equipment.

[0033] The configuration set can be retrieved from a memory on the user's equipment or from the device server.

[0034] In one embodiment, the subprocess selected based on the current location is at least partially carried out in an area that has sensitive infrastructure, whereby the user equipment is configured by adopting the configuration of the configuration set associated with this subprocess in such a way that disturbances to the infrastructure by the user equipment during use are avoided, thereby increasing the possible fields of application of the user equipment.

[0035] In one aspect, the current time and / or the user of the user equipment is determined, and the subprocess to be executed by the user equipment is selected based on the current time and / or the user, so that the selection of the subprocess can be very specific without increasing the effort.

[0036] The user can be identified, for example, by a user ID. This user ID can be linked to specific user equipment or individual components thereof. It is also conceivable that the user must identify themselves to the equipment before using it, thereby determining the user ID.

[0037] In order to enable particularly good adaptation of the user equipment to the requirements of the subprocess, the configuration can determine at least one property of the user equipment, in particular - the radio frequency bands and / or protocols permitted and / or prohibited for communication with the device server, with other user equipment and / or between parts of the user equipment; - for the subprocess, the process steps, their sequences, the expected results of the process steps, instructions to be issued to the user for process steps, the data format in which sensor data is acquired and / or transmitted to the process control, and / or at least one processing step that specifies how the acquired sensor data is to be processed and / or manipulated before being transmitted to the process control; and / or - the functions of the user equipment that are necessary for the respective process step and / or sub-process, in particular where only the necessary functions can be selected by the user.

[0038] The user equipment includes, in particular, the main device and the secondary device, which are wirelessly connected to each other.

[0039] In one embodiment, at least one application is executed on the main device, and the currently active application is determined, specifically which screen of the application is currently being used. The subprocess to be executed by the user equipment, particularly the secondary device, is selected based on the currently active application, specifically the currently active screen, and the user equipment retrieves the configuration set associated with the selected subprocess. This greatly simplifies switching between applications and / or enables reliable, non-linear user guidance within applications.

[0040] The term "screen" here does not refer to the physical display device ("screen display"), but rather to the view on such a screen display, also called "screen", "screen view" or "input mask".

[0041] For example, an application or screen can be considered "currently used" if it is currently running in the foreground, if it is currently displayed, if it was last run or displayed, and / or if it is receiving data captured by the secondary device.

[0042] To easily modify subprocesses or adjust configurations, if one of the subprocesses and / or one of the configuration sets is to be changed on the device server by an administrator of the device server, the following steps can be performed: - The user equipment that is to execute the modified subprocess and / or the subprocess whose configuration set was changed receives the updated configuration set of the modified subprocess and / or the modified updated configuration set, and - The configuration of the updated configuration set is automatically adopted by the user equipment.

[0043] In one implementation, the user equipment checks, according to a predetermined scheme, at regular intervals, during the establishment of the communication connection with the device server, and / or upon predetermined events, whether an updated configuration set is available for the currently executed subprocess and / or whether the user equipment should now execute a different subprocess. If necessary, it receives an updated configuration set from the device server for the currently executed subprocess and / or the configuration set for the subprocess that the user equipment should now execute. This ensures that the user equipment is always up to date.

[0044] A predetermined event is, for example, connecting the user system or parts of it to a power supply.

[0045] In particular, the user equipment simultaneously receives the instruction to adopt the configuration of the received configuration set.

[0046] Furthermore, the task is solved by a portable user device designed to perform a procedure as previously described.

[0047] The features and advantages mentioned for the process apply equally to the user equipment and vice versa. The components of the user device are designed to perform the process steps they are assigned to carry out.

[0048] The task is further solved by a working system comprising portable user equipment, in particular as described above, and a device server, wherein the working system is configured to perform a procedure as described above.

[0049] The features and advantages mentioned for the process and / or user equipment apply equally to the work system and vice versa. The components of the work system are designed to perform the process steps they are assigned to carry out.

[0050] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description and from the accompanying drawings, to which reference is made. The drawings show: Fig. 1: schematically a hall with a working system according to the invention, Fig. 2: a user of the work system with user equipment of the work system according to the invention Fig. 1, Fig. 3: a schematic representation of user equipment according to Fig. 2, Fig. 4: a schematic diagram to illustrate the division of sub-processes, and Fig. 5: a schematic flowchart of a method according to the invention.

[0051] In Fig. Figure 1 is a highly schematic representation of Hall 10 and a work system 12 from a bird's-eye view.

[0052] Hall 10 is part of a factory that manufactures a product. For example, the product is a motor vehicle or parts thereof.

[0053] The production of the product requires a predefined process with various process steps, which are carried out by users W.

[0054] It is conceivable that autonomous robots or drones could be used as user W instead of human users.

[0055] The entire process can be divided into different sub-processes to reduce the complexity of the sub-processes and increase productivity.

[0056] In Hall 10, the entire process or just a sub-process can be carried out, for example, if there are several spatially separated production sites.

[0057] The subprocess itself can be further subdivided into smaller subprocesses. This subdivision can be carried out many times, for example in the case of highly complex products such as a vehicle, so that the entire process is divided into several hierarchical levels of subprocesses and subprocesses of subprocesses, and so on. For the sake of simplicity, however, this disclosure will only refer to "subprocess," which can mean any subprocess at any hierarchical level.

[0058] Each sub-process comprises various process steps, which are carried out at the different workstations 14 by users W.

[0059] For this purpose, 10 different workstations 14 of the work system 12 are arranged in Hall 12, at which one or more of the process steps are carried out. Thus, a specific subprocess is carried out at each of the different workstations 14.

[0060] The workstations 14 are shown statically in the example. Of course, the workstations 14 could also be sections of an assembly line production.

[0061] In the illustrated embodiment, two production lines, each with three workstations 14, are provided. The workstations 14 of a production line are adjacent to each other, in Fig. 1. They are perpendicular to each other.

[0062] The production lines are therefore arranged parallel to each other.

[0063] In addition, the work system 12 includes at least one base station 16 for wireless communication, one device server 18, one process control 20, several user equipment 22 and several wireless connection devices 26.

[0064] The base stations 16 are arranged such that their range covers at least parts of the process area (also called the shop floor). In this example, the process area is the interior of Hall 10, and the base stations 16 are located in Hall 10.

[0065] Base station 16 is a stationary device, like an access point.

[0066] The base stations 16 are connected to the device server 18 and the process control unit 20, for example via LAN or the Internet. The device server 18 and the process control unit 20 are thus wirelessly accessible from the user equipment 22 in the process area.

[0067] The process control 20 and / or the device server 18 is operated on one or more central computers and / or servers.

[0068] The process control 20 is, for example, a merchandise management system, an Enterprise Resources Planning System (ERP system) or the like, and serves to control, manage quality and manage the processes of the work system 12, for example the processes for manufacturing the product.

[0069] The device server 18 is used to manage the user equipment 22 or the devices of the user equipment 22, in particular for the configuration, monitoring, maintenance and / or administration of the user equipment 22 or the devices of the user equipment 22.

[0070] It is also conceivable that the device server 18 is integrated into the process control 20.

[0071] Each of the user equipment 22 comprises at least one sensor device 24 and / or at least one output device 30.

[0072] The sensor devices 24 are worn by the users W. For example, each user W wears at least one or more sensor devices 24, as shown in Fig. 2 shown.

[0073] The sensor devices 24 have a sensor 28 and optionally an output means 30 and an actuating element 32.

[0074] The sensor devices 24 are, for example, headsets with a microphone as a sensor 28 and headphones as an output device 30. In addition, the headset can have a button as an actuation element 32.

[0075] For example, a camera, such as a helmet camera or a camera attached to clothing, can also be a sensor device 24. The camera serves as a sensor 28, and the optional screen display, LED, speaker, or button of the camera serves as an output device 30 or actuation element 32.

[0076] A barcode reader can also be a sensor device 24, wherein the barcode reader of the barcode reader is the sensor 28 and optional screen display, LED, speaker or button of the camera serve as output means 30 or actuation element 32.

[0077] For the purposes of this disclosure, a barcode is understood to mean any encoding, such as barcodes, matrix codes, QU codes and the like.

[0078] Portable sensor and / or information devices 25, such as those known as auxiliary equipment from DE 10 2019 118 969 A1 or DE 10 2020 106 369 A1, can also be used as sensor devices 24 of the user equipment 22.

[0079] The sensor and / or information device 25 has the sensor 28, an optional screen display as output means 30, a control unit 34 with a communication module 36 and a power storage device, such as a battery.

[0080] The sensor and / or information device 25 also has the actuating element 32, for example in the form of a button or by having a touch-sensitive screen display.

[0081] The sensor and / or information device 25 is, in particular, a device whose function is limited to specific applications. It may be an embedded system and / or have a compact form.

[0082] For example, the sensor and / or information device 25 is not a multifunctional device, i.e., not a smart device such as a smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch or smart glasses.

[0083] It should be noted, however, that these are purely exemplary embodiments for illustrative purposes. Alternatively, the sensor and / or information device 25 can be configured without a screen display or without a sensor 28. In these cases, the sensor and / or information device 25 is simply a sensor device or an information device.

[0084] It is also conceivable that the sensor device 24 is a smart device, such as a smartphone, tablet, smartwatch, or smart glasses. The sensor 28, for example, is an optical sensor, such as a barcode reader or a camera. It is also conceivable that the sensor and / or information device 25, acting as sensor 28, additionally or instead of the optical sensor, has other sensors such as an RFID reader, touch sensors, or accelerometers.

[0085] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the user equipment 22, and thus the work system 12, additionally includes a garment 38, in particular a glove, by means of which the sensor and / or information device 25 can be attached to the body of the user W. The sensor and / or information device 25, or the user equipment 22, is therefore a so-called "wearable".

[0086] For this purpose, the garment 38 has a holder 40 into which the sensor and / or information device 25 can be repeatedly attached and detached without tools.

[0087] The garment 38 can also have an input device 42, for example, a trigger for the sensor and / or information device 25. The trigger or input device 42 can be located on a finger of the glove. It is also conceivable that at least one input device 42, or one or more further input devices 42, are located on the holder 40.

[0088] The input device 42 is connected to the sensor and / or information device 25 by means of at least one cable 44 and at least one contact 46 in the holder 40 as soon as the sensor and / or information device 25 is inserted in the holder 40.

[0089] The input device 42 on the garment 38 can therefore also be regarded as an actuating element 32 of the sensor and / or information device 25.

[0090] The connection devices 26 are devices that typically have greater computing power than the sensor devices 24, in particular the sensor and / or information devices 25. For example, the connection devices 26 are designed as smart devices, such as a smartphone, a tablet, a smartwatch or smartglasses, or a wristband equipped with appropriate processors and communication modules.

[0091] In this case, the connection devices 26 are also mobile and are worn by the user W. They are then part of the user equipment 22.

[0092] The combination of sensor and / or information device 25 and connection device 26 corresponds, for example, to the sensor and information system consisting of secondary device (sensor and / or information device 25) and main device (connection device 26) of DE 10 2019 118 969 A1 or DE 10 2020 106 369 A1.

[0093] However, it is also conceivable that the connecting device 26 is integrated into the sensor device 24 or the sensor and / or information device 25.

[0094] The connection devices 26 maintain, on the one hand, a communication link with the process control 20 and, on the other hand, a communication link with their assigned sensor devices 24 or sensor and / or information devices 25.

[0095] The communication link between the connection device 26 and the process control 20 is established via one of the base stations 16 and is therefore wireless from the connection device 26 onwards.

[0096] The communication link between the connection device 26 and its assigned sensor devices 24 or sensor and / or information devices 25 is also wireless, for example using a different protocol. However, a wired communication link is also conceivable.

[0097] To produce the product, users W work at the various workstations 14 using the user equipment 22 assigned to them, which they wear on their bodies.

[0098] While the user W performs the process steps belonging to the subprocess of one of the workstations 14 at that workstation 14, he will use the sensors 28 of the sensor devices 24 or the sensors 28 will be activated automatically.

[0099] For example, before attaching a component to the product, user W must scan the product's barcode using sensor 28 of the sensor and / or information device 25. To scan the barcode, user W triggers sensor 28, for example, by pressing the input device 42 on the garment 38.

[0100] This generates sensor data, in the described example the value of the barcode, an image of the barcode, or the entire image captured by the barcode scanner.

[0101] Other examples of sensor data include accelerations, specific acceleration patterns (e.g., steps), movement sequences (e.g., hand rotations for tightening screws), gestures, read RFID identifiers, and / or temperature measurements.

[0102] The sensor data generated by the sensor device 24 are then transmitted to the connection device 26. The connection device 26 then transmits the sensor data to the process controller 20. This can be done via internal transmission if parts of the process controller 20 are executed on the connection device 26.

[0103] The process control 20 can then at least partially direct or control the sensor device 24 or the sensor and / or information device 25 to carry out a subprocess or process steps, in particular the subprocess or process steps assigned to the corresponding workstation 14 or even the specific sensor device 24 or the sensor and / or information device 25. The subprocesses or process steps assigned to the various sensor devices 24 of a user W can differ.

[0104] For example, the process control 20 now checks the received sensor data, in this case the barcode, against the intended process steps, which are carried out in hall 10 or at the special workstation 14.

[0105] The subprocesses and process steps are stored in the process control unit 20, so that the process control unit 20 already expects certain sensor data from the sensor device 24 or the sensor and / or information device 25. The process control unit 20 can now compare the received sensor data with the expected sensor data and, as a result of the comparison, provide feedback to the user W.

[0106] Furthermore, the process control 20 can transmit a control instruction to the same or a different sensor device 24 or the same or a different sensor and / or information device 25 to guide the user W.

[0107] For example, user W can be informed whether they want to attach the correct component or whether they have scanned the correct barcode. User W can also receive further information via output device 30. For this purpose, the control instruction contains, for example, details, in particular text, that is to be displayed on the screen of the sensor and / or information device 25.

[0108] The control instruction is transmitted by the process control 20 to the corresponding sensor device 24 or the corresponding sensor and / or information device 25 via the connection device 26.

[0109] The corresponding sensor device 24 or the corresponding sensor and / or information device 25 receives the control instruction and executes the instructions received in the control instruction.

[0110] User W can then proceed to the next process step or, if other instructions are given, execute them.

[0111] The connection device 26 can take over all or parts of these activities of the process control 20 for the purpose of informing and guiding the user. This is disclosed, for example, in DE 10 2019 118 969 A1 or DE 10 2020 106 369 A1, in which the monitoring of the correct execution of sequences of actions – referred to here as subprocesses – is described in detail. This monitoring can also be carried out by the process control 20.

[0112] The individual subprocesses are stored in the process control 20 and / or on the device server 18.

[0113] The described example of a production hall is merely illustrative. Applications of the inventive method to other processes are also conceivable. Further examples include warehousing and logistics processes, in which subprocesses such as unpacking goods, restocking the warehouse, selectively retrieving goods from the warehouse (so-called "picking"), and / or packaging these goods for shipment are carried out. In these subprocesses as well, users can use their own user equipment 22, which must be configured for the respective subprocess. In this case, the workstations 14 are, for example, shelves or packaging stations.

[0114] Fig. Figure 4 illustrates, in a highly simplified manner, the division of a process P into different subprocesses T1 to T7, which are parts of each other.

[0115] In the example shown, subprocesses T1 and T4 make up process P. Subprocess D1 is in turn composed of subprocesses T2, T3 and T4, and subprocess T5 is composed of subprocesses T6 and T7.

[0116] The sub-processes T1 and T4 are carried out in different operating facilities, for example different halls or at different locations.

[0117] For example, in Hall 10, which is in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the subprocess T1 and thus the three subprocesses T2, T3 and T4 at the various workstations 14 are from Fig. 1 carried out.

[0118] For example, subprocess T1 is carried out at the top workstations 14, subprocess T2 at the middle workstations 14, and subprocess T3 at the bottom workstations 14. For clarity, in Fig. 4. The two parallel workstations 14 are not shown. Therefore, for each subprocess T2, T3, and T4, there would have to be two workstations 14 and thus two blocks in the diagram. Fig. There are 4.

[0119] User equipment 22 is assigned to each of these subprocesses T2, T3, T4, T6 and T7. This means that the user should perform this subprocess with their corresponding user equipment 22.

[0120] Subprocess T2 is assigned two user equipment 22, subprocess T3 three user equipment 22, and subprocess T4 two user equipment and thus user W, as also in Fig. 1 can be seen.

[0121] The subprocesses T1 to T7 are stored in device server 18 and were set up, for example, by an administrator of device server 18, such as a so-called Process Owner.

[0122] For example, for each sub-process, it is determined which process steps are to be carried out and the sequence of the individual process steps.

[0123] Furthermore, the results expected in each process step, such as a specific barcode being read, can be determined, and it can be specified which information, such as work instructions, should be output to the user W during, before, or after each process step.

[0124] The data format in which sensor data obtained by means of sensor 28 and transmitted to the process control 20 can also be defined here.

[0125] At least one processing step can also be specified here. This one or more processing steps contain instructions on how the sensor data is to be processed and / or modified (manipulated) by the user equipment 22. For example, a specification or instruction might be that only the last five digits of a read 10-digit barcode are to be transmitted. The read barcode is then manipulated so that only the last five digits are retained.

[0126] Likewise, for each sub-process or even each process step, the functions of the user equipment 22 can be specified which should be activated to execute this sub-process or individual process step, as these are necessary at that moment.

[0127] It can also be stipulated that further functions of user equipment 22 are locked at this time.

[0128] A sub-process can also be assigned to a location or section of the process area (so-called shop floor) in, at or within which the sub-process is carried out.

[0129] It is also conceivable that communication specifications are made for individual or each subprocess. For example, specifications regarding which data transmission protocols and / or radio frequency bands are permitted and which are prohibited for communication between the connection device 26 and the base stations 16, with other connection devices 26, or with the associated sensor device 24 or the associated sensor and / or information device 25.

[0130] The specifications created in this way for each subprocess lead to a specific, optimal configuration of the user equipment 22, which is to carry out this subprocess, i.e., that in order to carry out this subprocess, certain settings must be set on the user equipment 22 and certain information must be contained on the user equipment 22.

[0131] These optional settings and information form a configuration set for the associated subprocess. The configuration set contains all the information and instructions required by user equipment 22 to set the settings, i.e., to achieve the optimal configuration assigned to the subprocess.

[0132] Setting up the subprocesses, and thus the configurations and configuration sets, is possible, for example, on device server 18, e.g., by an administrator or another user with the appropriate rights. In particular, users W of user equipment 22 are not able to change the configurations of the subprocesses.

[0133] A configuration set is created for each subprocess and each type of user equipment 22 that is to perform this subprocess.

[0134] The configuration sets obtained in this way for each subprocess are stored on device server 18.

[0135] As in Fig. As can be seen in section 4, different user equipment is assigned to different sub-processes.

[0136] For the correct configuration of user equipment 22, the following is required: Fig. 5. The inventive method shown as a flowchart is used.

[0137] First, in step S1, for each of the user equipment 22, it is selected which subprocess T1 to T7 this user equipment 22 should perform or which subprocess the user W of this user equipment 22 should support. In the Fig. In example 1, the subprocess is determined by which workstation 14 the user W is assigned to.

[0138] One way to select the subprocess is for the user W or a foreman in the process area, i.e., in hall 10, to select the subprocess himself for each user equipment 22, for example by entering or selecting the subprocess via the input means 42. In the simplest case, this is done at the main device if it is designed as a smart device.

[0139] The selection of the subprocess can take place at the sensor and / or information device 25, at the main device and / or at the secondary device.

[0140] It is also possible for an administrator to select on the device server which user equipment 22 should perform which subprocess.

[0141] Alternatively or additionally, the subprocess to be performed by the user equipment 22 can also be selected by using the user equipment 22 itself.

[0142] For this purpose, the user W reads in specific information using the sensor 28 of the user equipment 22, which can then be used to determine the subprocess.

[0143] For example, user W reads a barcode, which has previously been assigned to a subprocess.

[0144] For example, this information or barcode can be attached to a door to a special process area or at the beginning of a workstation 14.

[0145] It is also conceivable, however, that the user W starts the subprocess to be carried out using the user equipment 22, and the process control 20 or the device server 18 recognizes, based on the process steps carried out by the user equipment 22 (which in this case represent the information), which subprocess is currently being carried out. At this moment, this subprocess is considered selected.

[0146] Alternatively or additionally, using the main device may also involve selecting or changing a subprocess.

[0147] If the main device is configured as a smart device, it executes one application, but usually several applications simultaneously. Each or every application can be assigned a subprocess.

[0148] During use, the system determines, e.g., regularly by the main device itself, which application is currently being used on the main device, in particular which application is currently running in the foreground, which application is currently displayed, which application was last executed and / or which application receives the data captured by the secondary device.

[0149] The subprocess that is assigned to the application that is currently being used is then considered selected.

[0150] If the application currently being used changes, for example because the user calls up a different application, then the subprocess of the called application is considered selected and the configuration used may be changed.

[0151] It is also conceivable that not only an application as a whole, but also individual screens (i.e., screens, masks or screen views) within the same application are specifically assigned subprocesses.

[0152] In this case, not only the application currently being used on the main device is determined, but also the currently being used screen. The subprocess assigned to the currently being used screen is then considered selected.

[0153] Another way to select the sub-process to be performed by user equipment 22 is to use the current location of user equipment 22.

[0154] For this purpose, the user equipment 22 itself determines its own location, for example by means of a GPS module or suitable indoor localization, and selects the subprocess that is linked to this location.

[0155] It is also conceivable that the user equipment 22 transmits its location to the device server 18, which then selects the appropriate subprocess.

[0156] It is also possible for the device server 18 to determine the current location of the user equipment 22, for example by identifying the base station 16 to which the user equipment 22 is connected, and then selecting the appropriate subprocess.

[0157] The current time can also be used to select the subprocess. The time can be determined by the user equipment 22 and / or the device server 18.

[0158] Alternatively or additionally, it may be stipulated that only certain users W perform a specific subprocess, for example because only certain users W have received the necessary training or qualifications for the subprocess.

[0159] In this case, the user W who is currently operating or wearing the user equipment 22 is determined. The subprocess to be executed by this user equipment 22 is then selected based on the information about user W.

[0160] User W can be identified, for example, by means of a user ID. The user ID can be linked to a specific user equipment 22 or individual devices thereof. This is the case, for example, when the main devices are permanently assigned to a specific user W.

[0161] It is also conceivable that the user W must identify themselves to the user equipment 22, particularly the main unit, before using it. This identifies the user W of the respective user equipment 22 and thus establishes user identification.

[0162] In the next step S2, the configuration set belonging to the selected subprocess T1-T7 is transmitted from device server 18 to the corresponding user equipment 22. User equipment 22 thus receives the configuration set from device server 18.

[0163] In the next step S3, the user equipment 22, in particular the auxiliary device, now takes over the configuration contained in the configuration set.

[0164] The user equipment 22 therefore automatically sets all settings as specified by the configuration or configuration set.

[0165] The configuration is applied automatically, meaning that user W does not need to agree to the application or be able to prevent it in any other way. For example, the configuration is applied immediately as soon as a new configuration set is received from device server 18.

[0166] The user equipment 22 also takes over the process steps specified in the configuration set, their sequence, the expected results of the process steps, the instructions to be issued to the user W for the process steps, the data format in which sensor data are to be acquired and / or transmitted to the process control 20, and / or at least one processing step that specifies how the acquired sensor data are to be processed and / or manipulated before being transmitted to the process control 20.

[0167] Likewise, the functions of user equipment 22 that are stored in the configuration set are automatically activated, and, if a corresponding instruction is included in the configuration set, the remaining functions are deactivated.

[0168] In particular, the configuration set contains information on which functions should be deactivated.

[0169] The adopted configuration is used immediately, i.e., the user equipment 22 is now configured as requested by the administrator when setting up the subprocesses on the device server 18 or on the process control 20.

[0170] After the takeover, in step S4, user equipment 22 locks changes to the configurations that were taken from the configuration set, so that user W of user equipment 22 cannot change these locked configurations.

[0171] In particular, it is not possible to change these configurations directly on the user equipment 22.

[0172] It is conceivable that the entire configuration of user equipment 22 inherited from the configuration set is locked, so that user W cannot make any changes to it.

[0173] It is also possible that the parts of the configuration to be locked are defined within the configuration set itself. This allows user W to modify non-critical configurations, such as those related to ergonomics.

[0174] Furthermore, by locking changes by user W, it is guaranteed that the user equipment 22 is configured exactly as intended in the design of the subprocesses, at least with regard to the critical functions.

[0175] It is also conceivable that the user equipment has 22 different configuration sets stored, so that a change of configuration is possible without communication with the device server 18.

[0176] For example, if the user equipment 22 determines that it is now located in a place that is assigned to a different subprocess than the currently loaded subprocess, it can automatically and independently of the device server 18 adopt the configuration for this new subprocess.

[0177] Furthermore, the inventive method makes updates of sub-processes easy and ensures that the sub-processes are carried out immediately in the changed manner.

[0178] For example, in step A1, one of the subprocesses is modified, or a configuration of the subprocess is changed, meaning that the associated configuration set is modified. This can be done by an administrator on device server 18. The modified subprocess or configuration set is then automatically deployed to the user equipment 22.

[0179] The user equipment 22 that is currently assigned to a subprocess that has been changed or whose configuration set has been changed will now receive the updated configuration set of the changed subprocess or the changed updated configuration set (step A2).

[0180] Subsequently, steps S3 and S4 are performed, namely adopting the configuration from the received, now updated configuration set and, if necessary, locking some or all configurations against changes by user W.

[0181] To ensure that the user equipment 22 is always up to date, a check of the configuration's currency can be scheduled in advance when a communication link exists between the user equipment 22 and the device server 18.

[0182] For example, testing is performed according to a predetermined scheme or at regular intervals. It is also conceivable that such a test takes place as soon as the communication link between user equipment 22 and the device server 18 has been established, for example, after user equipment 22 has been activated.

[0183] Predetermined events can also trigger a test, such as connecting the user equipment 22 or parts thereof to a power supply. This can occur, for example, when the sensor and / or information device 25 is placed in a charging station.

[0184] If the check reveals that updated subprocesses or updated configuration sets exist, or that user equipment 22 should now execute a different subprocess, the corresponding configuration set is transmitted to user equipment 22 as described in step S2. Steps S3 and, if applicable, S4 are then performed.

[0185] In addition to process safety, the method can also ensure that sensitive infrastructure is not disrupted by the use of user equipment.

[0186] In Fig. Hall 10 has two areas. In the first area, sub-processes T2 and T3 are carried out, and in the second, in Fig. In the lower area, subprocess T4 is carried out.

[0187] The second area is separated from the first area by a wall and a door, and sensitive infrastructure 48 is located in the second area.

[0188] The sensitive infrastructure 48 may contain particularly sensitive technical equipment.

[0189] It is also conceivable that the sensitive infrastructure 48 consists solely of the fact that certain normally freely usable radio frequency bands in the relevant area are now reserved for specific tasks. This is the case, for example, when the control of work machines via radio should not be interfered with by other wirelessly communicating devices. The allocation of the various radio frequency bands is defined in a so-called radio frequency allocation plan.

[0190] In the Fig. In the situation depicted in Figure 1, user W1 has moved from the first area of ​​Hall 10 through the door into the second area of ​​Hall 10. Thus, the location of user equipment 22 has changed, which is detected, for example, by the device server 18.

[0191] The current location, i.e. the location in the lower area of ​​Hall 10, is assigned to subprocess T4, so subprocess T4 is now selected for the user equipment of user W 1.

[0192] User W1's equipment 22 now receives the corresponding configuration set from device server 18. This configuration set specifies that wireless communication between user equipment 22 and base stations 16, as well as communication between the main and secondary devices, must take place in one or more predetermined radio frequency bands. The use of other radio frequency bands is prohibited. The configuration set may also specify which protocols are to be used.

[0193] User equipment 22 now automatically adopts this configuration and will henceforth transmit signals only in the permitted radio frequency bands and using the permitted protocol. This prevents the sensitive infrastructure 48 from being disrupted by user equipment 22. QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 102019118969 A1 [0078, 0092, 0111] DE 102020106369 A1 [0078, 0092, 0111]

Claims

[1] Method for configuring portable user equipment (22) to perform subprocesses, wherein the user equipment (22) is in communication connection with a device server (18) and various subprocesses (T1-T7) and configuration sets for the user equipment (22) associated with the subprocesses (T1-T7) are stored on the device server (18), and wherein the method comprises the following steps: - Selecting one of the subprocesses (T1-T7) stored on the device server (18) to be executed by the user equipment (22), and - automatic transfer of the configuration of the configuration set associated with the selected subprocess (T1-T7) to the portable user equipment (22), whereby changes by the user (W) are blocked at least on parts of the configuration of the user equipment (22) adopted from the configuration set. [2] Method according to claim 1, characterized by, that the parts of the configuration whose modification by the user (W) is to be blocked are specified in the configuration set and / or wherein the entire configuration of the user equipment (22) inherited from the configuration set is blocked from changes by the user (W). [3] Method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the user equipment (22) comprises a garment (38), in particular a glove, and a sensor and / or information device (25) attached to the garment (38), wherein the sensor and / or information device (25) uses the configuration. [4] Method according to claim 3, characterized by, that the garment (38) and / or the sensor and / or information device (25) has at least one input means (42), in particular a trigger, wherein at least one function of the sensor and / or information device (25), in particular the sensor (28), is triggered by actuation of the input means (42) when the sensor and / or information device (25) is incorporated into the garment (38). [5] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the user equipment (22) comprises a main device and a secondary device, wherein the secondary device is a sensor and / or information device (25) and the main device maintains the communication link with the device server (18), wherein the secondary device and / or the main device use the configuration. [6] Method according to claim 5, characterized by, that the main device and / or the connecting device (26) is a portable smart device, in particular a smartphone, a tablet, a laptop, a smart watch or smart glasses. [7] Method according to claim 5 or 6, characterized by , that at least one application is executed on the main device, wherein the application currently being used on the main device is determined, in particular which screen of the application is currently being used, wherein the subprocess (T1-T7) to be executed by the user equipment (22), in particular the auxiliary device, is selected on the basis of the currently operated application, in particular the currently operated screen, in particular wherein the user equipment (22) retrieves the configuration set associated with the selected subprocess (T1-T7). [8] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the subprocess (T1-T7) to be executed by the user equipment (22) is selected by: - Input or selection of the subprocess (T1-T7) by the user (W) at the user equipment (22), in particular at the sensor and / or information device (25), main device and / or auxiliary device; and / or - Input or selection of the subprocess (T1-T7) by an administrator on the device server (18). [9] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the user equipment (22), in particular the sensor and / or information device (25) or auxiliary device, has a sensor (28), in particular a barcode reader, and wherein the subprocess (T1-T7) to be performed by the user equipment (22) is selected by reading information, in particular a barcode, using the sensor (28) and determining the subprocess (T1-T7) to be selected based on the information read. [10] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the current location of the user equipment (22) is determined and the subprocess (T1-T7) to be performed by the user equipment (22) is selected based on the current location. [11] Method according to claim 10, characterized by , that the user equipment (22), in particular the main device, determines the subprocess (T1-T7) to be executed by the user equipment (22) based on the current location, in particular wherein the user equipment (22) retrieves the configuration set associated with the selected subprocess (T1-T7). [12] Method according to claim 10 or 11, characterized by, that the subprocess (T1-T7) selected based on the current location is carried out at least partially in an area that has sensitive infrastructure (48), wherein the user equipment (22) is set by adopting the configuration of the configuration set associated with this subprocess (T1-T7) in such a way that disturbances to the infrastructure (48) by the user equipment (22) during use are avoided. [13] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the current time and / or user of the user equipment (22) is determined and the subprocess (T1-T7) to be executed by the user equipment (22) is selected based on the current time and / or the user. [14] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the configuration determines at least one property of the user equipment (22), in particular - the radio frequency bands and / or protocols permitted and / or prohibited for communication with the device server (18), with other user equipment (22) and / or between parts of the user equipment (22) themselves; - for the subprocess (T1-T7), the process steps, their sequences, the expected results of the process steps, instructions to be issued to the user (W) for process steps, the data format in which sensor data are acquired and / or transmitted to the process control (20), and / or at least one processing step that specifies how the acquired sensor data are to be processed and / or manipulated before being transmitted to the process control (20); and / or - the functions of the user equipment (22) that are necessary for the respective process step and / or subprocess (T1-T7), in particular where only the necessary functions can be selected by the user (W). [15] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that if one of the subprocesses (T1-T7) and / or one of the configuration sets is changed by an administrator of the device server (18) on the device server (18), the following steps are performed: - the user equipment (22) that is to execute the modified subprocess (T1-T7) and / or the subprocess (T1-T7) whose configuration set has been changed, shall receive the updated configuration set of the modified subprocess (T1-T7) and / or the modified updated configuration set, and - the configuration of the updated configuration set is automatically adopted by the user equipment (22). [16] Method according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the user equipment (22), when the communication connection with the device server (18) exists, checks according to a predetermined scheme, at regular intervals, when the communication connection is established and / or upon predetermined events, whether an updated configuration set is available for the currently executed subprocess (T1-T7) and / or whether the user equipment (22) should now execute a different subprocess (T1-T7) and, if necessary, receives an updated configuration set from the device server (18) for the currently executed subprocess (T1-T7) and / or the configuration set for the subprocess (T1-T7) that is now to be executed by the user equipment (22). [17] Portable user equipment configured to perform a method according to any of the preceding claims. [18] Working system comprising portable user equipment, in particular according to claim 17 and a device server (18), wherein the working system (12) is configured to perform a method according to any one of claims 1 to 16.

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