WORK ASSISTANCE FACILITY

Abstract

Work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) comprising: - a workload level evaluation unit (105) configured to evaluate a workload level indicating a degree of stress exerted on an operator (131) as a result of work from operator information relating to the operator (131) performing the work in cooperation with a production facility (132) and production facility information (181) relating to the production facility (132); - an improvement measure memory (106) configured to store improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) for improving the workload level; - a simulation unit (107) configured to perform a simulation to estimate an estimated improvement effect (192) indicating a degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) are applied; - an improvement measure determining unit (108) configured to determine application improvement measures to be applied to at least one of the operator (131) and the production facility (132) from the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) on the basis of the estimated improvement effect (192); - an operator information memory (102) configured to store the operator information; - an operator information collecting unit (101) configured to collect new operator information to be sequentially included in the operator information in real time; - a production plant information memory (104) configured to store the production plant information (181); and - a production facility information collecting unit (103) configured to collect new production facility information to be sequentially incorporated into the production facility information (181) in real time.

Description

Technical area

[0001] The present invention relates to a work assistance device and a work assistance system. State of the art

[0002] In production lines of factories or the like, the reduction in the number of people willing to become operators, aging, and the like are problems. Therefore, in order to reduce the burden on operators and improve production efficiency, a large number of automated technologies, such as industrial robots and process automation systems, have been implemented in the production lines of factories or the like.

[0003] However, in the production lines of factories or the like, there are still work processes where the burden on operators cannot be reduced and production efficiency cannot be improved using only these automated technologies.

[0004] Therefore, in the production lines of factories or the like, in order to reduce the burden on operators or improve production efficiency, the following measures are taken, for example: The burden on operators is quantitatively evaluated or assessed, and a change in operations handled by the operators is instructed based on the assessed burden.

[0005] For example, in the technology described in JP 2017-68432 A, information about the physical conditions of an operator is acquired (para.

[0027] ). Furthermore, based on the information about the physical conditions of the operator, an evaluation value for the operator's work is calculated (para.

[0031] ). Furthermore, layout simulation is performed to obtain a plurality of process layouts, wherein layout details are specified to be different for a group of processes of a layout target (para.

[0039] ).

[0006] This allows for the derivation of process arrangements that are efficient in terms of adaptability to the work of operators, taking into account, for example, whether or not an operator is good at or suitable for a process (para.

[0088] ).

[0007] In the technology described in JP 5 027 053 B2, the time required for the work of each work type by each operator is extracted (para.

[0066] ). Furthermore, a variance value α1 is calculated with respect to all stored actual result values ​​for a set of actual result values ​​of the time required for each work of each work type by each operator (para.

[0067] ).

[0008] In addition, the set of all values ​​for actual results of the time required for the work of each work type of each operator is divided at predetermined sampling intervals, and a variance value α2 of the values ​​for actual results is calculated for each divided set (para.

[0067] ).

[0009] In addition, if the variance value α2 is greater than the variance value α1, it is determined that there is an unevenness in the time required for the operator's work, and accordingly, it is determined that the operator's work efficiency has decreased (para.

[0079] ).

[0010] In addition, a work plan is adjusted according to the degree of reduction in work efficiency, thus alleviating the workload for the operator (paragraph

[0080] ). With this configuration, a work plan can be created or adjusted depending on various purposes, such as work efficiency optimization, by taking into account the conditions or characteristics of the operators (paragraph

[0088] ).

[0011] JP 2014-199 595 A discloses a computer program for estimating workload, comprising the steps of: acquiring data indicating a change over time in a worker's posture according to the work, or data indicating a worker's holding object according to the work; identifying the load corresponding to each worker's posture indicated in the acquired data, or the load corresponding to each worker's holding object indicated in the acquired data, using data indicating the relationship between the worker's posture and the load, or the holding object and the load; and calculating the total workload of the worker by aggregating the identified loads.

[0012] JP 2010-97562 A discloses a work information processing system comprising a memory for storing work content definition information for identifying the work content according to information detected by sensors, and a controller. The controller receives values ​​from a plurality of detection targets detected by sensors and information about the time at which the values ​​were detected, specifies the work contents according to the work content definition information corresponding to the values ​​of the plurality of detection targets detected by the sensors, and displays the work contents in a time sequence.

[0013] JP 2004-139515 A describes a method for evaluating a process in a production line. First, each process task is divided into work elements based on a work standard. Next, the work elements are analyzed in conjunction with an element evaluation reference table, which defines a graded evaluation reference for each individual, pre-prepared evaluation element to assign evaluation points to each evaluation element. The evaluation point with the highest difficulty rating is used as the final overall evaluation point. SummaryProblem to be solved with the invention

[0014] If the measures described above are taken, the workload on operators can be reduced, and production efficiency can be maintained or improved. However, if there are insufficient operators to perform the work, the measures described above cannot be implemented. Therefore, in the production lines of factories and the like, a shift from a machine-initiated system in which operators perform work according to a production schedule is expected to occur to an operator-initiated system in which a production schedule supports the maximization of performance provided by the operators.

[0015] The present invention was conceived in view of these problems. The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a work assistance device and a work assistance system that can automatically apply improvement measures to effectively reduce the workload on an operator. Ways to solve the problem

[0016] The problem is solved by a work assistance device having the features of claim 1, a work assistance device having the features of claim 3 and by a work assistance device having the features of claim 8. Advantageous further developments are specified in the respective subclaims. Effects of the invention

[0017] According to the present invention, the workload level, which indicates the degree of strain exerted on the operator as a result of work, can be evaluated from the information regarding the operator and the production facility. Furthermore, the estimated improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures are applied to improve the assessed workload level, is estimated.

[0018] In addition, the application improvement measures to be applied to at least one of the operator and the production equipment are determined based on the estimated improvement effect. Consequently, the improvement measures can be automatically applied to effectively reduce the work-related stress on the operator.

[0019] These and other objects, features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of the present invention when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Short description of the drawings Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of a production line in which work is performed supported by a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to first to fifth embodiments. Fig. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first embodiment. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of production facility information and time stamps stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first to fifth embodiments. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of improvement measures and estimated improvement effects stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first to fifth embodiments. Fig. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the second embodiment. Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the second embodiment. Fig. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the third embodiment. Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the third embodiment. Fig. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a work assisting system and a work assisting device according to the first modification of the third embodiment. Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first modification of the third embodiment. Fig. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the fifth embodiment. Fig. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the fifth embodiment. Description of embodiments1 Introduction

[0020] A work assistance system and a work assistance device described below support work performed by an operator in cooperation with a production facility in a production line of a factory that includes the operator and a production facility. The work assistance system and the work assistance device can also support work performed by an operator in cooperation with a production facility that is different from a production line of a factory.

[0021] Work assistance or support is provided to improve the workload level, which indicates the degree of stress exerted on the operator as a result of the work. Consequently, the production facility includes devices that can be controlled by the work assistance system and the work assistance device.

[0022] The devices are a work table whose height and the like are adjustable, a robot device that performs production in cooperation with an operator, a processing device that requires the supply of a component from the operator, a mechanism that holds and / or lifts a work target object that is a target of a work, a conveyor belt that conveys a work target object, a component, or the like from the operator, a lighting device that illuminates the area around the operator's hands, an air conditioner that is introduced into the work area in which a work is performed, an air emission unit that is introduced into the work area in which a work is performed, and the like. 2 First embodiment2.1 Work assistance system

[0023] Fig. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the first embodiment.

[0024] A work assistance system 1 according to the first embodiment, which is shown in Fig. 1, comprises a work assistance device 11, an input unit 12 and an output unit 13.

[0025] The work assistance device 11 determines the application of improvement measures for improving the workload level based on operator information and production equipment information, and applies the determined application improvement measures to at least one of the operator and the production equipment. The operator information is information related to the operator. The production equipment information is information related to the production equipment. The workload level indicates the degree of stress exerted on the operator as a result of work.

[0026] The work assistance device 11 may comprise only a single device, or it may comprise a plurality of devices in combination.

[0027] The input unit 12 and the output unit 13 are connected to communicate with the work assistance device 11 and serve as a user interface of the work assistance device 11. The input unit 12 inputs information into the work assistance device 11. The output unit 13 outputs the information from the work assistance device 11. 2.2 Work assistance facility

[0028] The work assistance device 11 includes an operator information collection unit 101, an operator information storage unit 102, a production equipment information collection unit 103, a production equipment information storage unit 104, a workload level evaluation unit 105, an improvement measure storage unit 106, a simulation unit 107, an improvement measure determination unit 108, an operator supply unit 109, and a production equipment supply unit 110.

[0029] These elements can be configured by causing a computer to run a program, or they can be configured using hardware that does not run a program. 2.3 Operator information collection unit

[0030] The operator information collecting unit 101 collects new operator information.

[0031] The collected new operator information includes at least the following: an operator's personal identifier (ID), a body load state, and whether the operator is on duty / on break / on standby. The operator's personal identifier is used to identify the operator. The personal identifier is a number, a name, or the like. The body load state is the state of the load acting on the body. The body load state can be collected by measuring life log data using a biological sensor or the like, or it can be collected by measuring the posture assumed while performing work using a posture sensor, a camera, or the like.

[0032] The measured life log data includes life log data of blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, sweat rate, and the like. The measured posture is estimated from measurement data output by the posture sensor, an image output by the camera, and the like. The collected new operator information may include information beyond these information items.

[0033] For example, the collected new operator information may include the operator's continuous working time, environmental data of the location where the operator is located, details of the operator's utterances, and the like. Environmental data includes room temperature, humidity, brightness, and illuminance. The collected operator information may include the relative length of the actual time required for work relative to the standard time required for work.

[0034] In order to enable the work assistance device 11 to deliver information for applying the application improvement measures in real time, the operator information collecting unit 101 desirably collects the new operator information sequentially in real time based on which of the application improvement measures are determined. 2.4 Operator Information Memory

[0035] The operator information storage 102 stores the operator information.

[0036] The new operator information collected by the operator information collection unit 101 is incorporated into the operator information stored in the operator information storage 102. The operator information stored in the operator information storage 102 may also include operator information different from the operator information collected by the operator information collection unit 101. For example, the operator information stored in the operator information storage 102 may include employment management data.

[0037] Employment management data includes gender, age, physical characteristics, chronic illnesses (if any), details of chronic illnesses, employment restrictions (if any), details of employment restrictions, years of experience, strengths and weaknesses in each job type, qualifications, working hours, overtime worked, vacation records, and the like related to the operator. Physical characteristics include height, weight, and the like. 2.5 Production plant information collection unit

[0038] The production facility information collection unit 103 collects new production facility information.

[0039] The collected new production facility information includes at least a facility identifier (ID) and an operating condition, as well as at least one of a preset value and the current value of variable parameters related to the collaborative production with the operator. The facility identifier of the facility is used to identify the facility. The facility identifier is a number, a facility name, or the like.

[0040] The collected new production facility information may also include information other than these information elements. For example, the collected new production facility information may include at least one of a set value and the current value of variable parameters that are not related to the collaborative production with the operator, whether there is a defect, a warning, or the like, measurement data from sensors or the like installed inside or around the production facility, and the like. The measurement data includes measured data of vibration, electromagnetic waves, a current value, a voltage value, a power value, electrical energy, or the like.

[0041] In order to enable the work assistance device 11 to deliver information for applying the application improvement measures in real time, the production facility information collection unit 103 desirably collects the new production facility information sequentially in real time based on which of the application improvement measures are determined. 2.6 Production plant information storage

[0042] The production facility information storage 104 stores the production facility information.

[0043] The new production facility information collected by the production facility information collection unit 103 is incorporated into the production facility information stored in the production facility information storage 104. The production facility information stored in the production facility information storage 104 may include production facility information different from the production facility information collected by the production facility information collection unit 103.

[0044] For example, the production facility information stored in the production facility information storage 104 may include: the year and month of purchase, a model number, a manufacturing number, the cumulative operating time, daily inspection records, maintenance records, the upper and lower values ​​indicating a range within which the variable parameters related to cooperative production with the operator can be specified, the upper and lower values ​​indicating a range within which the variable parameters not related to cooperative production with the operator can be specified, operation plans, operation records, and the like regarding the production facility. 2.7 Workload level assessment unit

[0045] The workload level evaluation unit 105 evaluates the workload level from the operator information stored in the operator information storage 102 and the production facility information stored in the production facility information storage 104. When evaluating the workload level, for example, the operator's posture is estimated from measurement data output from the posture sensor, an image output from the camera, or the like.

[0046] In addition, the workload level is estimated from the estimated operator position using existing technology, such as "DhaibaWorks," a digital human technology platform software developed by the National Institute for Advanced Work Science and Technology of the National Research and Development Agency. The workload level can be estimated from the measurement data acquired by the biological sensor or the like. The workload level can be estimated from the relative length of the actual time required for work to the standard time required for work.

[0047] In order to enable the work assistance device 11 to provide information for applying the application improvement measures in real time, the workload degree evaluation unit 105 desirably evaluates the workload degree in real time from the new operator information and the new production facility information when the new operator information and the new production facility information are collected. 2.8 Improvement measures storage

[0048] The improvement measure storage 106 stores improvement measures for improving the workload level.

[0049] The improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 are a plurality of sets of improvement measures.

[0050] The improvement measures stored in the improvement measures memory 106 contain at least a facility identifier (ID) of the facility and information for applying the improvement measures provided to the facility. The facility identifier is used to identify the facility. The facility identifier is a number, a facility name, or the like. The improvement measures stored in the improvement measures memory 106 may also contain information other than these pieces of information.

[0051] For example, the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 may include information provided to a device other than the device to which the improvement measures are applied or an operator before and after the improvement measures are applied, an expected value, a minimum value, or a maximum value of an improvement value of the workload level, and the like.

[0052] Desirably, the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure memory 106 include improvement measures whose target is an operator, improvement measures whose target is a production facility, and improvement measures whose target is both an operator and a production facility. The improvement measures whose target is an operator include changing the work speed, rearranging work procedures, and the like.

[0053] Improvement measures targeting a production facility include changing the height of the worktable, lifting a heavy object using the production facility, and the like. Improvement measures targeting an operator and a production facility include increasing and decreasing the support value for the operator using a production robot, and the like. 2.9 Simulation unit

[0054] The simulation unit 107 performs a simulation to estimate an estimated improvement effect indicating a degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 are applied. The simulation unit 107 may perform a simulation to estimate the estimated improvement effect in advance and cause the improvement measure storage 106 to store the estimated improvement effect in advance.

[0055] Using existing technology, such as the "DhaibaWorks" described above, a change in the workload level due to a change in position can be simulated before and after the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure memory 106 are applied, and the estimated improvement effect can be estimated from the simulated change in the workload level. A change in the time required for work can be simulated before and after the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure memory 106 are applied, and the estimated improvement effect can be estimated from the simulated change in the time required for work.

[0056] The estimated improvement effect estimated by the simulation unit 107 is the estimated improvement effect of a case in which a set of improvement measures or a plurality of sets of improvement measures selected from the plurality of sets of improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 are applied. 2.10 Improvement measures determination unit

[0057] The improvement measure determining unit 108 determines the application improvement measures to be applied to at least one of the operator and the production facility from the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106, based on the estimated improvement effect estimated by the simulation unit 107.

[0058] The application improvement measures determined by the improvement measure determination unit 108 are a set of application improvement measures or a plurality of sets of application improvement measures.

[0059] The applied improvement measures determined by the improvement measure determination unit 108 may be improvement measures with the highest estimated improvement effect, or they may be a combination of the improvement measures with the highest improvement effect among the improvement measures targeting the production facility and the highest estimated improvement effect among the improvement measures targeting the operator, as well as improvement measures selected from the improvement measures with the highest estimated improvement effect among the improvement measures targeting the operator and the production facility. If none of the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 can improve the workload level, the improvement measure determination unit 108 may determine not to apply the improvement measures. 2.11 Operator delivery unit

[0060] The operator delivery unit 109 delivers to the operator information that is presented to the operator when the application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility are applied to the production facility. The presented information is information that is desirably presented to ensure operator safety, improve work efficiency, and the like.

[0061] The application improvement measures determined by the improvement measure determination unit 108 may include a single set of application improvement measures or a plurality of sets of application improvement measures to be applied to the operator. If the application improvement measures determined by the improvement measure determination unit 108 include the application improvement measures to be applied to the operator, the operator delivery unit 109 delivers to the operator information for applying the application improvement measures to be applied to the operator.

[0062] The information supplied by the operator delivery unit 109 is displayed on a screen for use by the operator at work, on a mobile terminal owned by the operator, or the like. The information supplied by the operator delivery unit 109 can be simultaneously displayed on a digital display board or the like in the factory. The information supplied by the operator delivery unit 109 can also be supplied as voice information, various pieces of signal information, or the like.

[0063] In order to enable the work assistance device 11 to provide information for applying the application improvement measures in real time, the operator supply unit 109 desirably provides to the operator information that is presented to the operator in real time when the application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility are determined.

[0064] In addition, the operator supply unit 109 desirably supplies to the operator information for applying - to the operator - the application improvement measures to be applied to the operator in real time when the application improvement measures to be applied to the operator are determined. 2.12 Production plant delivery unit

[0065] The application improvement measures determined by the improvement measure determination unit 108 may include a single set of application improvement measures or a plurality of sets of application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility. If the application improvement measures determined by the improvement measure determination unit 108 include the application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility, the production facility delivery unit 110 delivers to the production facility information for applying—to the production facility—the application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility. The delivered information includes a default change command, a file describing the default change command, a default value, details of a change to the default value, and the like.

[0066] When the information is delivered to the production equipment by the production equipment delivery unit 110, for example, the specification change command is sent directly to the production equipment via a network or the like. The production equipment may be connected to a programmable logic controller, a database, or the like via a network or the like, a specification value may be written to the programmable logic controller, the database, or the like, and the production equipment may update its own specification value by referring to the written specification value.

[0067] A file describing the default change command may be output to a network folder or the like accessible by both the production facility and the production facility delivery unit 110, and the production facility may update its own default value by reading the file.

[0068] In order to enable the work assistance device 11 to supply the information for applying the application improvement measures in real time, the production facility supply unit 110 desirably supplies to the production facility the information for applying - to the production facility - the application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility in real time when the application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility are determined. 2.13 Handling of improvement measures with the introduction of a new system

[0069] The improvement measures stored in the improvement measures memory 106 desirably include improvement measures with the introduction of a new facility and improvement measures without the introduction of a new facility.

[0070] In this case, in the simulation performed by the simulation unit 107, the estimated improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures are applied with the introduction of new equipment, and the estimated improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures are applied without the introduction of new equipment, are estimated. The estimation of the estimated improvement effects is performed with respect to a single operator or with respect to a plurality of operators.

[0071] If the improvement measures with the introduction of new equipment have the best estimated improvement effect, the improvement measure determination unit 108 includes the improvement measures with the introduction of new equipment that have the best estimated improvement effect but cannot be executed in real time, and the improvement measures without the introduction of new equipment that do not have the best estimated improvement effect but can be executed in real time, as the application improvement measures. The improvement measures without the introduction of new equipment that are included in the application improvement measures are a set of improvement measures or a plurality of sets of improvement measures. 2.14 Example of the production line

[0072] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of a production line in which work supported by a work assistance system and a work assistance device is performed according to the first embodiment. Fig. 2 also illustrates examples of the improvement measures stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first embodiment.

[0073] In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 2, a production line 121 has a single operator 131 and a single production system 132. The production system 132 includes a first device 141, a work table 142, a second device 143, a first conveyor belt 144, and a second conveyor belt 145.

[0074] The first conveyor belt 144 conveys products from the first device 141 to the work table 142. The second conveyor belt 145 conveys products from the work table 142 to the second device 143.

[0075] A biological sensor and a posture sensor are attached to the operator 131. The biological sensor measures heart rate, body temperature, and the like. The posture sensor measures posture.

[0076] The operator 131 performs product assembly work on the worktable 142. The height of the worktable 142 is adjustable. The height of the worktable 142 can be changed directly by the work assist device 11, or it can be changed by the operator 131 operating a button or the like.

[0077] The production line 121 has a monitor for an operator 133. The monitor for an operator 133 is installed in front of the operator 131. The monitor for an operator 133 normally displays information related to work schedules. The production line 121 produces three types of products that have different dimensions from one another.

[0078] The three types of products are the same products, but they have very different dimensions from each other.

[0079] When the operator 131 performs work to assemble a product having the largest dimensions, the operator 131 must perform the work while extending their arms upward. Conversely, when the operator 131 performs work to assemble a product having the smallest dimensions, the operator 131 must perform the work while bending forward.

[0080] In the Fig. 2, the improvement actions stored in the improvement action memory 106 include improvement actions 161 whose target is the operator 131 and improvement actions 162 whose target is the production facility 132. The improvement actions 161 whose target is the operator 131 include the following: "sitting on a chair," "using a step," "using a gauge," "changing the illuminance of the work table," and "changing the orientation of the product."

[0081] The improvement measures 162, whose target is the production facility 132, include the following: improvement measures 171, whose target is the first device 141, improvement measures 172, whose target is the work table 142, improvement measures 173, whose target is the first conveyor belt 144, and improvement measures 174, whose target is the second conveyor belt 145. The improvement measures 171, whose target is the first device 141, include "changing the orientation of the product at the time of conveying."

[0082] Improvement actions 172, whose target is the work table 142, include "height change" and "illuminance change." Improvement actions 173, whose target is the first conveyor belt 144, and improvement actions 174, whose target is the second conveyor belt 145, each include "speed change." The improvement actions stored in improvement action memory 106 include improvement actions whose target is the operator 131 and the production equipment 132 (not shown). Improvement actions whose target is the operator 131 and the production equipment 132 include "adding a new operator, a new conveyor belt, and a new work table."

[0083] The following describes the processing performed by the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 when the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 support the work performed in the production line 121 located in Fig. 2. However, the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 can also support work that is carried out in a production line that is different from the production line 121 shown in Fig. 2 is shown. 2.15 Processing carried out by the work assistance system and the work assistance facility

[0084] Fig. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first embodiment.

[0085] When the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 support the work, the Fig. 3 are executed. When steps S101 and S104 are executed, steps S103 and S104 are executed in parallel with steps S101 and S102.

[0086] In step S101, the operator information collecting unit 101 collects operator information from the biological sensor and the posture sensor attached to the operator 131. The collected operator information is formed from measurement data output from the biological sensor and the posture sensor.

[0087] In the following step S102, the collected operator information and time stamps associated with the collected operator information are stored in the operator information storage 102.

[0088] In step S103, the production facility information collecting unit 103 collects production facility information from the first device 141, the work table 142, the first conveyor belt 144, and the second conveyor belt 145.

[0089] In the subsequent step S104, the production facility information and the time stamps associated with the collected production facility information are stored in the production facility information storage 104.

[0090] Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of production facility information and timestamps stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first embodiment.

[0091] In the Fig. 4, a piece of equipment information 181 is associated with a timestamp 182. The equipment information 181 includes "operating condition," "fault details," and "work product" collected by the first device 141. The equipment information 181 also includes "set speed" and "operating speed" collected from the first conveyor 144. The equipment information 181 also includes "height" and "illuminance" collected from the worktable 142. The equipment information 181 also includes "set speed" and "operating speed" collected from the second conveyor 145.

[0092] The further description is made with renewed reference to Fig. 3.

[0093] In step S105, which follows steps S102 and S104, the workload level evaluation unit 105 extracts the operator information stored in the operator information storage 102 and extracts the production equipment information stored in the production equipment information storage 104. Furthermore, the workload level evaluation unit 105 evaluates the workload level from the extracted operator information and production equipment information.

[0094] The extracted operator information and production equipment information are operator information and production equipment information whose timestamps are assigned to the most recent time point in time. Alternatively, the extracted operator information and production equipment information are operator information and production equipment information whose timestamps are assigned to times closest to each other within a specified tolerance range.

[0095] The tolerance range is the difference between the time intervals at which operator information is collected and the time intervals at which production equipment information is collected, etc. From these, the workload level is evaluated based on the operator information and production equipment information collected at substantially the same time.

[0096] In the subsequent step S106, it is determined whether or not the workload level needs to be improved. The case where it is determined that the workload level needs to be improved is a case where the workload level at the current time exceeds a predetermined threshold, a case where the difference between the workload level at the current time and the workload level at a time several seconds earlier than the current time exceeds a predetermined threshold, a case where the workload level shows a tendency to increase in the previous several seconds, or the like. If it is determined that the workload level needs to be improved, steps S107 to S110 are executed sequentially. If it is determined that the workload level does not need to be improved, steps S101 to S103 are executed again.

[0097] In step S107, the simulation unit 107 performs a simulation to estimate the estimated improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 are applied. Furthermore, the simulation unit 107 causes the improvement measure determination unit 108 to store the improvement measures and the estimated improvement effect.

[0098] Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of improvement measures and estimated improvement effects stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first embodiment.

[0099] In the Fig. In the example shown in Figure 5, improvement measures 191 are associated with an estimated improvement effect 192. The improvement measures 191 include "Goal 1," "Goal 2," and "Goal 3" to which the improvement measures 191 are to be applied. Furthermore, the improvement measures 191 include the "part to be changed" and "change details" with respect to each of "Goal 1," "Goal 2," and "Goal 3." The estimated improvement effect 192 includes the "expected value" of the improvement effect of the workload level.

[0100] The simulation unit 107 estimates the estimated improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures are applied, based on the workload level evaluated by the workload level evaluation unit 105 and the cause of the load acting on the operator 131 as a result of the work. For example, consider the following case: The operator 131 performs work to assemble a product that has the smallest dimensions, and the workload level, which indicates the degree of load acting on the lower back of the operator 131 as a result of the work, is high.

[0101] In this case, the change in the position of the operator 131 when the improvement measures are applied is estimated, the workload level is recalculated based on the estimated change in the position of the operator 131, and the estimated improvement effect indicating the degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures are applied is evaluated based on the recalculated workload level.

[0102] The improvement measures 131 may be tested in advance with respect to the operator 131, and the results of testing the improvement measures with respect to the operator 131, particularly the improvement effect indicating the degree of improvement of the workload level when the improvement measures are actually applied, may be stored, and the stored improvement effect may be extracted and regarded as the estimated improvement effect.

[0103] If there are a plurality of improvement measures that have the estimated improvement effect, evaluation results can be calculated based on a secondary evaluation criterion. The secondary evaluation criterion is whether the improvement measures have the highest estimated improvement effect, whether a burden is imposed on other parts when the improvement measures are applied, whether a delay in work is caused, and so on.

[0104] In the subsequent step S108, the improvement measure determination unit 108 determines whether or not to apply the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure memory 106 based on the estimated improvement effect stored in the improvement measure memory 106. Furthermore, the improvement measure determination unit 108 causes the improvement measure memory 106 to store information regarding whether or not to apply the improvement measures.

[0105] The information is information indicating whether or not the improvement measures are application improvement measures. Desirably, the timestamp associated with the collected operator information, the timestamp associated with the collected production equipment information, the estimated improvement effect, and the information indicating whether or not the improvement measures are applied are stored associated with each other.

[0106] The improvement measure determination unit 108 may determine whether or not to apply the improvement measures based on the evaluation results regarding the secondary evaluation criterion calculated by the simulation unit 107, in addition to the estimated improvement effect.

[0107] The determination as to whether or not to apply the improvement measures is carried out in such a way that the improvement measures 162 which target the production facility 132 are applied preferentially.

[0108] If none of the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 can improve the current workload level, then the improvement measure determination unit 108 may determine not to apply the improvement measures.

[0109] When the improvement measures with the introduction of new equipment have the best estimated improvement effect, the improvement measures determination unit 108 includes in the application improvement measures the improvement measures with the introduction of new equipment that have the best estimated improvement effect but cannot be executed in real time, and the improvement measures without the introduction of new equipment that do not have the best estimated improvement effect but can be executed in real time.

[0110] In the subsequent step S109, if there are application improvement measures, at least one of the operator supply unit 109 and the production facility supply unit 110 supplies information for applying the application improvement measures to at least one of the operator 131 and the production facility 132. For example, if there are application improvement measures to be applied to the operator 131, the operator supply unit 109 supplies to the operator 131 a notification for applying - to the operator 131 - the application improvement measures to be applied to the operator 131, or the like.

[0111] Furthermore, if there are application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility 132, the production facility delivery unit 110 delivers to the production facility 132 a default value for applying to the production facility 132 the application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility 132, or the like. Furthermore, if the application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility 132 are applied to the production facility 132 as necessary, the operator delivery unit 109 delivers to the operator 131 information that is presented to the operator 131 along with the application.

[0112] For example, if there are application improvement measures for "changing the height of the work table," the production equipment supply unit 110 supplies a default value to the production equipment 132 for applying the application improvement measures for "changing the height of the work table." Furthermore, the operator supply unit 109 supplies an information item to the operator 131 indicating that the application improvement measures for "changing the height of the work table" are being applied, and the height of the work table 142 is thus automatically changed to ensure the safety of the operator 131.

[0113] The information is delivered via a loudspeaker, the operator display screen 133, or the like. The production equipment delivery unit 110 can notify a controller included in the first conveyor belt 144 and the second conveyor belt 145 connected to the worktable 142 that the height of the worktable 142 should be changed, and can instruct the controller to adjust the conveying timing after the work of the operator 131 is completed.

[0114] In the subsequent step S110, it is determined whether or not the work is complete. If the work is complete, processing ends. If the work is not complete and there are no application improvement measures, or the information for applying the application improvement measures has already been provided, steps S101 and S103 are executed again. 2.16 Effect of the invention according to the first embodiment

[0115] According to the invention according to the first embodiment, the workload level, which indicates the degree of stress applied to the operator 131 as a result of work, is evaluated from the information regarding the operator 131 and the production facility 132. Furthermore, the estimated improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures for improving the evaluated workload level are applied, is estimated.

[0116] Furthermore, the application improvement measures to be applied to at least one of the operator 131 and the production facility 132 are determined based on the estimated improvement effect. Consequently, the application improvement measures for effectively reducing the workload on the operator 131 can be automatically applied. Consequently, the operator 131 can perform work without exerting excessive workload, regardless of their proficiency and personal characteristics, such as physical abilities.

[0117] Furthermore, according to the invention according to the first embodiment, when the improvement measures with the introduction of new equipment have the best estimated improvement effect, the application improvement measures include the improvement measures with the introduction of new equipment that have the best estimated improvement effect but cannot be executed in real time, and the improvement measures without the introduction of new equipment that do not have the best estimated improvement effect but can be executed in real time. With this configuration, a long-term improvement method for the productivity of the production line can be proposed. 3 Second embodiment

[0118] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of a production line in which work supported by a work assistance system and a work assistance device is performed according to the second embodiment. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of production facility information and timestamps stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the second embodiment. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of improvement measures and estimated improvement effects stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the second embodiment.

[0119] Fig. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the second embodiment. Fig. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the second embodiment.

[0120] A work assistance system 2 and a work assistance device 21 according to the second embodiment shown in Fig. 6 are different from the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1, mainly in the following configurations, which are described below. Regarding the configurations not described below, configurations similar to those adopted in the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 according to the first embodiment are also adopted in the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 according to the second embodiment.

[0121] As in Fig. 6, the work assistance device 21 has an improvement measure evaluation unit 111.

[0122] The improvement measure evaluation unit 111 is connected to the operator information storage 102, the production facility information storage 104 and the improvement measure storage 106.

[0123] The improvement measure evaluation unit 111 evaluates the improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement in the workload level when the application improvement measures are actually applied, based on the operator information stored in the operator information storage 102 and the production facility information stored in the production facility information storage 104. Furthermore, the improvement measure evaluation unit 111 causes the improvement measure storage 106 to store the evaluated improvement effect. Differences between the improvement effect and the estimated improvement effect estimated by simulation can be evaluated.

[0124] The operator 131 may be prompted to input evaluation information indicating the improvement effect from the input unit 12. When the operator 131 is prompted to input the evaluation information from the input unit 12, a touch panel, a switch, or the like for accepting the input of the evaluation information is preferably provided on the input unit 12.

[0125] When the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 support the work, similar to when the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 support the work, steps S101 to S110 are executed, which are shown in Fig. 7. In addition, when the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 support the work, steps S121 to S123 are executed in parallel with steps S105 to S109, after steps S102 and S104 are executed.

[0126] In step S121, the improvement measure evaluation unit 111 determines whether or not the current situation falls under an evaluation criterion. The evaluation criterion indicates that the improvement effect should be evaluated. For example, if the information to apply the application improvement measures is provided within the most recent time point and the work whose workload level is assumed to be improved with the application improvement measures continues, then it is determined that the current situation falls under the evaluation criterion.

[0127] If it is determined that the current situation falls within the evaluation criterion, steps S122 and S123 are executed sequentially, and then step S110 is executed. If it is determined that the current situation does not fall within the evaluation criterion, steps S101 and S103 are executed again without executing steps S122 and S123.

[0128] In step S122, the improvement measure evaluation unit 111 evaluates the improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement in the workload level when the application improvement measures are actually applied. For example, if the height of the worktable 142 is automatically adjusted to improve the workload level, which indicates the degree of stress acting on the lower back of the operator 131, the posture of the operator 131 is measured again using the posture sensor, and it is evaluated whether or not the workload level has improved, as indicated by the estimated improvement effect, based on the measured posture of the operator 131.

[0129] The evaluation can be performed based on the work efficiency of the operator 131. Life log data, such as blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, and sweat rate of the operator 131, can be measured using the biological sensor, and an evaluation can be performed based on the stability of the measured life log data.

[0130] Furthermore, in the subsequent step S123, the improvement action evaluation unit 111 causes the improvement action storage 106 to store the evaluated improvement effect. Desirably, the collected operator information, the collected production equipment information, and the evaluated improvement effect are stored in association with each other. 3.1 Effect of the invention according to the second embodiment

[0131] In the invention according to the second embodiment, similarly to the invention according to the first embodiment, the application improvement measures for effectively reducing the load applied to the operator due to work can be automatically applied.

[0132] Furthermore, in the invention according to the second embodiment, an ex-post evaluation of the improvement effect is performed, which indicates the degree of improvement in the workload level when the application improvement measures are actually applied. Furthermore, the results of the ex-post evaluation are stored in the improvement measure memory 106. With this configuration, the improvement effect of the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure memory 106 can be obtained through self-learning, with the result that the improvement measures can be made more suitable for the operator. Consequently, the application improvement measures can be made more suitable for the operator.

[0133] When the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 are improvement measures that assume improvement of the workload level by improving the posture of the operator and the weight load acting on the operator, the following applies: If the application improvement measures, physical change information of the operator, an improvement situation, and the like are stored by associating them with each other, the physical characteristics and preference for the work environment of each operator can be taken into account at the time when the estimated improvement effect is estimated. 4 Third embodiment

[0134] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of a production line in which work supported by a work assistance system and a work assistance device is performed according to the third embodiment. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of production facility information and timestamps stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the third embodiment. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of improvement measures and estimated improvement effects stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the third embodiment.

[0135] Fig. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the third embodiment. Fig. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the third embodiment.

[0136] A work assistance system 3 and a work assistance device 31 according to the third embodiment shown in Fig. 8 are different from the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1, mainly in the following configurations, which will be described below. Regarding the configurations not described below, configurations similar to those adopted in the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 according to the first embodiment are also adopted in the work assistance system 3 and the work assistance device 31 according to the third embodiment.

[0137] As in Fig. 8, the work assistance device 31 has a production plan collecting unit 112 and an actual production result collecting unit 113.

[0138] Each of the production plan collection unit 112 and the actual production result collection unit 113 is connected to the simulation unit 107.

[0139] The production plan collection unit 112 collects production plans. The production plan collected by the production plan collection unit 112 is a production plan provided for the production line 121. The production plan collected by the production plan collection unit 112 is a daily production plan of the day when the collection is performed. The production plan collected by the production plan collection unit 112 is a production plan generated in a production plan system or the like existing outside the work assistance system 3 and the work assistance device 31.

[0140] When the production plan collected by the production plan collection unit 112 is the production plan generated in the production plan system, the following applies: When the production plan collection unit 112 collects the production plan, the production plan collection unit 112 is connected to the production plan system via a network, and the production plan system directly transmits the production plan to the production plan collection unit 112.

[0141] A file describing the production plan can be output to a network folder or the like, accessible by both the production plan system and the production plan collection unit 112, and the production plan collection unit 112 can read the file. The production plan system can output the production plan to a database, and the production plan collection unit 112 can read the output production plan.

[0142] The actual production result collection unit 113 collects actual production results. The actual production results collected by the actual production result collection unit 113 are actual production results achieved by the production line 121. The actual production results collected by the actual production result collection unit 113 are actual production results collected in a production management system or the like that exists outside the work assistance system 3 and the work assistance device 31. The actual production result collection unit 113 can directly collect the actual production results from the production facility 132.

[0143] If the actual production results collected by the actual production results collection unit 113 are the actual production results collected in the production management system, the following applies: When the actual production results collection unit 113 collects the actual production results, the actual production results collection unit 113 is connected to the production management system via a network, and the production management system directly transmits the actual production results to the actual production results collection unit 113.

[0144] A file describing the actual production results can be output to a network folder or the like, accessible by both the production management system and the actual production results collection unit 113, and the actual production results collection unit 113 can read the file. The production management system can output the actual production results to a database, and the actual production results collection unit 113 can read the output actual production results.

[0145] The improvement action memory 106 stores the influence that the stored improvement actions have on the production plan. For example, consider the following case: Similar to the first embodiment, the improvement actions stored in the improvement action memory 106 include: "sitting on a chair," "using a step / step," "using a gauge," "changing the illuminance of the worktable," and "changing the orientation of the product," which are improvement actions 161 targeting the operator 131; "changing the orientation of the product at the time of conveying," which is improvement actions 171 targeting the first device 141; "changing the height" and "changing the illuminance," which are improvement actions 172 targeting the worktable 142; and "changing the speed," which is improvement actions 173 targeting the first conveyor belt 144."Speed ​​change", which represents the improvement measures 174 whose target is the second conveyor belt 145, and "Adding a new operator, a new conveyor belt and a new work table", which represent the improvement measures whose target is the operator and the production facility.

[0146] In this case, "using a step," "changing the product orientation," "changing the height," and "changing the speed" increase the working time, waiting time, or the like. Furthermore, "changing the illumination intensity of the worktable" and "changing the product orientation at the time of conveying" do not increase the working time, waiting time, or the like. Furthermore, "adding a new operator, a new conveyor belt, and a new worktable" decreases the working time, waiting time, or the like. Accordingly, with respect to "using a step," "changing the product orientation," "changing the height," and "changing the speed," the improvement measure storage 106 stores a degree of reduction in production speed, a degree of increase in working time, or the like.

[0147] Furthermore, regarding "change in the illumination intensity of the worktable" and "change in the orientation of the product at the time of conveying," the improvement action memory 106 does not store a degree of reduction in production speed, a degree of increase in working time, or the like. Furthermore, regarding "adding a new operator, a new conveyor belt, and a new worktable," the improvement action memory 106 stores a degree of increase in production speed.

[0148] During the simulation performed by the simulation unit 107, the estimated influence that the improvement measures stored in the improvement measures memory 106 have on the production plan is estimated.

[0149] The improvement measure determination unit 108 determines the application improvement measures based on the estimated improvement effect and the estimated influence estimated by the simulation unit 107.

[0150] When the work assistance system 3 and the work assistance device 31 support the work, similar to when the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 support the work, steps S101 to S106 and S109 and S110 are executed, which are shown in Fig. 9. Furthermore, when the work assistance system 3 and the work assistance device 31 assist the work, after it is determined in step S106 that the workload level needs to be improved, step S131 is executed, and after step S131 is executed, steps S107' and S108' are executed instead of steps S107 and S108, respectively.

[0151] In step S131, the production plan collection unit 112 collects the production plan, and the actual production result collection unit 113 collects the actual production results. The production plan and actual production results collected by the production plan collection unit 112 and the actual production result collection unit 113 are the production plan and actual production results at the current time. The simulation unit 107 can obtain the production plan and actual production results collected by the production plan collection unit 112 and the actual production result collection unit 113.

[0152] In the subsequent step S107', the simulation unit 107 executes a simulation to estimate the estimated improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement of the workload level when the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 are applied, and the estimated influence that the improvement measures have on the production plan.

[0153] Desirably, the estimated impact is estimated based on the actual production results. Furthermore, the simulation unit 107 causes the improvement action memory 106 to store the improvement actions, the estimated improvement effect, and the estimated impact.

[0154] In the subsequent step S108', the improvement measure determination unit 108 determines whether or not to apply the improvement measures based on the estimated improvement effect and the estimated influence stored in the improvement measure storage 106. Furthermore, the improvement measure determination unit 108 causes the improvement measure storage 106 to store information regarding whether or not to apply the improvement measures.

[0155] For example, consider the following case: The improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 include the "use of a gauge" and "speed change" described above. "Use of a gauge" has a relatively small estimated improvement effect and a relatively small reduction value in the production speed. "Speed ​​change" has a relatively high estimated improvement effect and a relatively small reduction value in the production speed.

[0156] In this case, the improvement measure determination unit 108 uses “speed change” which has a relatively high estimated improvement effect and a relatively small reduction value of the production speed as the application improvement measures in a situation where the influence on the production plan is relatively easy to allow, such as a case where the degree of deviation between a prediction value of the actual production results and the production plan is small.

[0157] In addition, the improvement measure determination unit 108 uses “use of a gauge,” which has a relatively small estimated improvement effect and a relatively small reduction value of the production speed, as the application improvement measures in a situation where the influence on the production plan is relatively difficult to allow, such as a case where a prediction value of the actual production results has not reached a value of the production plan.

[0158] In the subsequent step S109, if there are application improvement measures, at least one of the operator supply unit 109 and the production equipment supply unit 110 supplies information for applying the application improvement measures to at least one of the operator 131 and the production equipment 132.

[0159] According to the invention of the third embodiment, similarly to the invention of the first embodiment, the application improvement measures for effectively reducing the work load on the operator can be automatically applied.

[0160] Furthermore, according to the third embodiment of the invention, the estimated impact of the improvement measures on the production plan is estimated. Furthermore, the application improvement measures are determined based on the estimated impact. Consequently, the application improvement measures can be automatically applied, taking the impact on the production plan into account.

[0161] For example, application improvement measures can be applied automatically, minimizing any delay in actual production results relative to the production plan. Furthermore, application improvement measures can be applied automatically, significantly improving the workload while allowing a delay in actual production results relative to the production plan. This allows application improvement measures to be determined flexibly for the operator and the production plan. 5 First modification of the third embodiment

[0162] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of a production line in which work is performed supported by a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the first modification of the third embodiment. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of production facility information and time stamps stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first modification of the third embodiment. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of improvement measures and estimated improvement effects stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first modification of the third embodiment.

[0163] Fig. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a work assisting system and a work assisting device according to the first modification of the third embodiment. Fig. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the first modification of the third embodiment.

[0164] A work assistance system 3A and a work assistance device 31A according to the first modification of the third embodiment shown in Fig. 10 are different from the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 according to the second embodiment shown in Fig. 6, mainly in the following configurations, which will be described below. Regarding the configurations not described below, configurations similar to those adopted in the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 according to the second embodiment are also adopted in the work assistance system 3A and the work assistance device 31A according to the first modification of the third embodiment.

[0165] The difference between the work assistance system 3A and the work assistance device 31A according to the first modification of the third embodiment and the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 according to the second embodiment is similar to the difference between the work assistance system 3 and the work assistance device 31 according to the third embodiment and the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 according to the first embodiment.

[0166] When the work assistance system 3A and the work assistance device 31A support the work - similarly to when the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 support the work - steps S101 to S106 and S109, S110, and S121 to S123 are executed, which are shown in Fig. 11. In addition, when the work assistance system 3A and the work assistance device 31A assist the work, after it is determined in step S106 that the workload level of the operator 131 needs to be improved, step S131 is executed, and after step S131 is executed, steps S107' and S108' are executed instead of steps S107 and S108, respectively.

[0167] In step S122, the improvement measure evaluation unit 111 evaluates the improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement of the workload level when the application improvement measures are actually applied, and the influence that the application improvement measures actually have on the production plan.

[0168] In step S123, the improvement measure evaluation unit 111 causes the improvement measure storage 106 to store the evaluated improvement effect and influence.

[0169] In step S131, similarly to the third embodiment, the production plan collecting unit 112 collects the production plan, and the actual production result collecting unit 113 collects the actual production results.

[0170] In step S107', similar to the third embodiment, the simulation unit 107 executes a simulation to estimate the estimated improvement effect, which indicates the degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 are applied, as well as the estimated influence that the improvement measures will have on the production plan. Furthermore, similar to the third embodiment, the simulation unit 107 causes the improvement measure determination unit 108 to store the improvement measures, the estimated improvement effect, and the estimated influence.

[0171] In step S108', similar to the third embodiment, the improvement measure determination unit 108 determines whether or not the improvement measures should be applied based on the estimated influence stored in the improvement measure memory 106. Furthermore, similar to the third embodiment, the improvement measure determination unit 108 causes the improvement measure memory 106 to store information regarding whether or not the improvement measures should be applied.

[0172] According to the invention according to the first modification of the third embodiment, similarly to the invention according to the first embodiment, the application improvement measures for effectively reducing the load applied to the operator due to work can be automatically applied.

[0173] According to the invention according to the first modification of the first modification of the third embodiment, similarly to the invention according to the second embodiment, the application improvement measures can be made more suitable for the operator.

[0174] Furthermore, according to the invention according to the first modification of the third embodiment, similarly to the invention according to the third embodiment, the application improvement measures can be automatically applied by taking into account the influence on the production plan.

[0175] Furthermore, according to the invention according to the first modification of the third embodiment, the influence that the applied improvement measures actually exert on the production plan is stored in the improvement measure memory 106. With this configuration, the influence stored in the improvement measure memory 106 can be obtained through self-learning, with the result that the estimated influence for the production plan can be estimated with high accuracy. 6 Fourth embodiment

[0176] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of a production line in which work supported by a work assistance system and a work assistance device is performed according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of production facility information and timestamps stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of improvement measures and estimated improvement effects stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0177] Fig. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the fourth embodiment. Fig. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the fourth embodiment.

[0178] A work assistance system 4 and a work assistance device 41 according to the fourth embodiment shown in Fig. 12 are different from the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 according to the first embodiment shown in Fig. 1, mainly in the following configurations, which are described below. Regarding the configurations not described below, configurations similar to those adopted in the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 according to the first embodiment are also adopted in the work assistance system 4 and the work assistance device 41 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0179] The operator information stored in the operator information storage 102 includes proficiency, which indicates a degree of work proficiency with respect to the operator 131. The proficiency is used to correct the workload level evaluated by the workload level evaluation unit 105.

[0180] The improvement action memory 106 stores information specifying a corresponding workload level according to the proficiency. The information stored in the improvement action memory 106 may be an expected value, a minimum value, or a maximum value indicating the corresponding workload level, or it may be a calculation expression for calculating the corresponding workload level.

[0181] As in Fig. 12, the work assistance device 41 has a competency evaluation unit 114.

[0182] The efficiency assessment unit 114 is connected to the workload level assessment unit 105.

[0183] If the deviation between the workload level evaluated by the workload level evaluation unit 105 and the corresponding workload level according to the proficiency contained in the operator information stored in the operator information storage 102 is greater than a criterion, the proficiency evaluation unit 114 updates the proficiency. Generally speaking, if the operator 131 has high proficiency, the workload level tends to be low, and a decrease in work efficiency, an increase in fatigue, and the like tend not to be caused.

[0184] In contrast, if the operator 131 does not have high proficiency, the workload level tends to be high, and this tends to cause a decrease in work efficiency, an increase in fatigue, and the like. Therefore, according to the proficiency evaluation unit 114, the proficiency used as the basis for correcting the workload level evaluated by the workload level evaluation unit 105 can be updated to an appropriate proficiency, and the workload level evaluated by the workload level evaluation unit 105 can be approximated to the workload level experienced by the operator 131.

[0185] When the work assistance system 4 and the work assistance device 41 support the work, similarly to when the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 support the work, steps S101 to S110 are executed, which are shown in Fig. 13. In addition, when the work assistance system 4 and the work assistance device 41 support the work, after determining in step S106 that the workload level needs to be improved, steps S141 to S143 are executed in parallel with steps S107 to S109.

[0186] In step S141, it is determined whether or not the proficiency evaluation unit 114 needs to update the proficiency included in the operator information stored in the operator information storage 102. If the deviation between the workload level evaluated by the workload level evaluation unit 105 and the corresponding workload level corresponding to the proficiency is greater than a criterion, then it is determined that the proficiency needs to be updated.

[0187] If it is determined that the capability needs to be updated, steps S142 and S143 are executed sequentially, and then step S110 is executed. If it is determined that the capability does not need to be updated, steps S101 and S103 are executed again without executing steps S142 and S143.

[0188] In step S142, the proficiency evaluation unit 114 updates the proficiency contained in the operator information stored in the operator information storage 102 to a new proficiency. The new proficiency is determined based on, for example, the following: searching for the proficiency assumed for the workload level, whether the work speed and / or work efficiency is high or low, whether the number of interruptions during work is large or small, and the like.

[0189] In the subsequent step S143, the proficiency evaluation unit 114 causes the operator information storage 102 to store the new proficiency.

[0190] According to the invention of the fourth embodiment, similarly to the invention of the first embodiment, the application improvement measures for effectively reducing the work load on the operator can be automatically applied.

[0191] Furthermore, according to the invention according to the fourth embodiment, the change in the ability that affects the work ability of the operator can be automatically learned, and the workload degree can be evaluated with high accuracy.

[0192] The configuration adopted in the work assistance system 4 and the work assistance device 41 according to the fourth embodiment can be adopted in the work assistance system 1 and the work assistance device 11 according to the first embodiment, the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 according to the second embodiment, the work assistance system 3 and the work assistance device 31 according to the third embodiment, or the work assistance system 3A and the work assistance device 31A according to the first modification of the third embodiment. 7 Fifth embodiment

[0193] Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram schematically illustrating an example of a production line in which work supported by a work assistance system and a work assistance device is performed according to the fifth embodiment. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of production facility information and timestamps stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the fifth embodiment. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of improvement measures and estimated improvement effects stored in the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0194] Fig. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a work assistance system and a work assistance device according to the fifth embodiment. Fig. 15 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure performed by the work assistance system and the work assistance device according to the fifth embodiment.

[0195] A work assistance system 5 and a work assistance device 51 according to the fifth embodiment shown in Fig. 14 are different from the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 according to the second embodiment shown in Fig. 6, mainly in the following configurations, which will be described below. Regarding the configurations not described below, configurations similar to those adopted in the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 according to the second embodiment are also adopted in the work assistance system 5 and the work assistance device 51 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0196] As in Fig. 14, the work assistance device 51 has an improvement measure adding unit 115.

[0197] The improvement measure addition unit 115 generates improvement measures customized for the operator 131 based on an action of the operator 131. The improvement measures customized for the operator 131 are generated by adapting existing improvement measures already stored in the improvement measure storage 106. Furthermore, the improvement measure addition unit 115 adds the generated improvement measures customized for the operator 131 to the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106.

[0198] The improvement measure addition unit 115 can add new improvement measures to the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 based on an action of the operator 131. The action of the operator 131 that triggers the addition of the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131 or the new improvement measures is an action of stopping the application of the application improvement measures, an action of manually changing a default value of the production facility 132, or the like.

[0199] The details of the action are stored together with the personal ID of the operator 131 when the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131 or the new improvement measures are added. Generally speaking, in many cases, the operator 131 with high proficiency has their original work procedures, work know-how, and the like, and they perform the above-described actions to utilize the original work procedures, work know-how, and the like.

[0200] Accordingly, according to the improvement measure adding unit 115, the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131 having high proficiency can be automatically applied, and the original work procedures, work know-how, and the like of the operator 131 having high proficiency can be reflected to novice or average operators.

[0201] The operator information stored in the operator information memory 102 includes the efficiency that indicates how efficient the operator 131 is at work.

[0202] The improvement measures memory 106 provides a marker for the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131, indicating that the improvement measures are the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131, as well as the personal identifier of the operator 131. In addition, the improvement measures memory 106 stores the provided personal identifier of the operator 131.

[0203] When the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 include the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131, the improvement measure determination unit 108 preferably includes the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131 in the application improvement measures, even if there are improvement measures that have an estimated improvement effect higher than the estimated improvement effect of the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131.

[0204] When the work assistance system 5 and the work assistance device 51 support the work, similarly to when the work assistance system 2 and the work assistance device 21 support the work, steps S101 to S110 and S121 and S122 are executed, which are shown in Fig.15. When the work assistance system 5 and the work assistance device 51 support the work, after step S122 is executed, steps S151 to S153 are also executed.

[0205] In step S151, it is determined whether or not the target value collected by the production equipment information collection unit 103 and the target value provided by the production equipment supply unit 110 agree with each other. If it is determined that the target values ​​agree with each other, steps S152 and S153 are executed sequentially, and then step S110 is executed. If it is determined that the target values ​​do not agree with each other, steps S101 and S103 are executed again without executing steps S152 and S153.

[0206] In step S152, the improvement measure adding unit 115 determines the reason why the default value has been changed from the operator information and the production facility information.

[0207] In the subsequent step S153, if the reason why the target value has been changed is due to the above-described action of the operator 131, the improvement measure adding unit 115 causes the improvement measure storage 106 to store the changed target value of the production facility 132 and the personal ID of the operator 131, which constitute the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131.

[0208] In step S108, if the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 include the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131, the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131 are preferentially included in the application improvement measures even if there are improvement measures whose estimated improvement effect is higher than the estimated improvement effect of the improvement measures adapted to the operator 131.

[0209] If the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 include those improvement measures adapted with respect to another operator, and the improvement measures adapted with respect to another operator have a high estimated improvement effect, then the improvement measures adapted with respect to another operator can be included in the application improvement measures.

[0210] If it is estimated in step S107 that the improvement measures adapted with respect to the operator 131 have a high estimated improvement effect with respect to a plurality of operators, then the improvement measures adapted with respect to the operator 131 may be added to the improvement measures stored in the improvement measure storage 106 as improvement measures that can be applied to all operators.

[0211] According to the invention according to the fifth embodiment, similarly to the invention according to the first embodiment, the application improvement measures for effectively reducing the load applied to the operator 131 due to work can be automatically applied.

[0212] According to the invention according to the fifth embodiment, similarly to the invention according to the second embodiment, the application improvement measures can be made more suitable for the operator.

[0213] Furthermore, according to the fifth embodiment of the invention, the improvement measures tailored to the operator with high proficiency can be automatically applied. Consequently, the work procedures, work know-how, and the like of the operator with high proficiency can be reflected on novice and average operators.

[0214] The configuration adopted in the work assistance system 5 and the work assistance device 51 according to the fifth embodiment can be adopted in the work assistance system 3A and the work assistance device 31A according to the first modification of the third embodiment. The configuration adopted in the work assistance system 5 and the work assistance device 51 according to the fifth embodiment can be adopted in the work assistance system and the work assistance device modified to include the improvement action evaluation unit 111.

[0215] It should be noted that according to the present invention, each embodiment can be freely combined with another, and each embodiment can be appropriately modified or features can be omitted within the scope of the invention.

[0216] While the invention has been shown and described in detail, the above description is in all aspects merely illustrative and not restrictive. It is therefore understood that numerous modifications not shown may be utilized without departing from the scope of the present invention. Explanation of reference symbols 1, 2, 3 Work Assistance System 3A, 4, 5 Work assistance system 11, 21, 31 Work assistance facility 31A, 41, 51 Work assistance device 12 Input unit 13 Output unit 101 Operator Information Collection Unit 102 Operator Information Memory 103 Production Plant Information Collection Unit 104 Production Plant Information Storage 105 Workload Level Assessment Unit 106 Improvement Measures Memory 107 Simulation Unit 108 Improvement Measures Determination Unit 109 Operator delivery unit 110 Production plant delivery unit 111 Improvement Measures Assessment Unit 112 Production plan collection unit 113 Collection unit for actual production results 114 Ability Assessment Unit 115 Improvement Measure Addition Unit 121 production line 131 Operator 132 production plant 181 Production plant information 182 timestamps 191 improvement measures 192 estimated improvement effect.

Claims

[1] Work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) comprising: - a workload level evaluation unit (105) configured to evaluate a workload level indicating a degree of stress exerted on an operator (131) as a result of work from operator information relating to the operator (131) performing the work in cooperation with a production facility (132) and production facility information (181) relating to the production facility (132); - an improvement measure memory (106) configured to store improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) for improving the workload level; - a simulation unit (107) configured to perform a simulation to estimate an estimated improvement effect (192) indicating a degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) are applied; - an improvement measure determining unit (108) configured to determine application improvement measures to be applied to at least one of the operator (131) and the production facility (132) from the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) on the basis of the estimated improvement effect (192); - an operator information memory (102) configured to store the operator information; - an operator information collecting unit (101) configured to collect new operator information to be sequentially included in the operator information in real time; - a production plant information memory (104) configured to store the production plant information (181); and - a production facility information collecting unit (103) configured to collect new production facility information to be sequentially incorporated into the production facility information (181) in real time. [2] The work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) according to claim 1, wherein the workload degree evaluation unit (105) evaluates the workload degree in real time from the new operator information and the new production facility information when the new operator information and the new production facility information are collected. [3] Work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) comprising: - a workload level evaluation unit (105) configured to evaluate a workload level indicating a degree of stress exerted on an operator (131) as a result of work from operator information relating to the operator (131) performing the work in cooperation with a production facility (132) and production facility information (181) relating to the production facility (132); - an improvement measure memory (106) configured to store improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) for improving the workload level; - a simulation unit (107) configured to perform a simulation to estimate an estimated improvement effect (192) indicating a degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) are applied; and - an improvement measure determining unit (108) configured to determine application improvement measures to be applied to at least one of the operator (131) and the production facility (132) from the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) on the basis of the estimated improvement effect (192), wherein the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) include the improvement measures with the introduction of a new facility and the improvement measures without the introduction of the new facility, in the simulation the estimated improvement effect indicating the degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures with the introduction of the new facility are applied and the estimated improvement effect indicating the degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures without the introduction of a new facility are applied are estimated, and when the improvement measures with the introduction of the new facility have the best estimated improvement effect, the improvement measure determination unit (108) includes the improvement measures with the introduction of the new facility and the improvement measures without the introduction of the new facility in the application improvement measures. [4] Work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) according to claim 3, further comprising: - an operator information memory (102) configured to store the operator information; - an operator information collecting unit (101) configured to collect new operator information to be sequentially included in the operator information in real time; - a production plant information memory (104) configured to store the production plant information (181); and - a production facility information collecting unit (103) configured to collect new production facility information to be sequentially incorporated into the production facility information (181) in real time. [5] Work assistance device (31, 31A) according to claim 3, wherein the simulation further estimates the estimated influence that the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) have on a production plan, and the improvement measure determination unit (108) determines the application improvement measures based on the estimated improvement effect (192) and the estimated influence. [6] Work assistance device (51) according to claim 3, further comprising: an improvement measure adding unit (115) configured to generate the improvement measures adapted to the operator (131) based on an action of the operator (131), and to add the improvement measures adapted to the operator (131) to the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174). [7] The work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) according to claim 3, wherein the application improvement measures may include the application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility (132), and wherein the work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) further comprises: an operator delivery unit (109) configured to deliver - to the operator (131) - information for applying - to the operator (131) - the application improvement measures to be applied to the operator (131). [8] Work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) comprising: - a workload level evaluation unit (105) configured to evaluate a workload level indicating a degree of stress exerted on an operator (131) as a result of work from operator information relating to the operator (131) performing the work in cooperation with a production facility (132) and production facility information (181) relating to the production facility (132); - an improvement measure memory (106) configured to store improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) for improving the workload level; - a simulation unit (107) configured to perform a simulation to estimate an estimated improvement effect (192) indicating a degree of improvement in the workload level when the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) are applied; and - an improvement measure determining unit (108) configured to determine application improvement measures to be applied to at least one of the operator (131) and the production facility (132) from the improvement measures (161, 162, 171, 172, 173, 174) on the basis of the estimated improvement effect (192), wherein the application improvement measures may include the application improvement measures to be applied to the production plant (132), and wherein the work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) further comprises: a production plant delivery unit (110) configured to deliver - to the production plant (132) - information for applying - to the production plant (132) - the application improvement measures to be applied to the production plant (132). [9] The work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) according to claim 8, wherein the production facility supply unit (110) supplies the information to the production facility (132) in real time when the application improvement measures to be applied to the production facility (132) are determined. [10] Work assistance device (11, 21, 31, 31A, 41, 51) according to claim 8, further comprising: an operator delivery unit (109) configured to deliver - to the operator (131) - information presented to the operator (131) when the application improvement measures to be applied to the production plant (132) are applied to the production plant (132).

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