Support device

Abstract

To provide a support device capable of flexibly supporting experimental work of a worker.SOLUTION: A support device includes: a first acquisition unit for acquiring profile information of a worker who performs experimental work in research facilities; a second acquisition unit for acquiring work information related to the experimental work performed by the worker; a prediction unit for predicting the experimental work to be performed by the worker based on the work information acquired by the second acquisition unit; a determination unit that determines first support operation for supporting the experimental work predicted by the prediction unit based on the experimental work predicted by the prediction unit and profile information; and an output unit that outputs information for executing the first support operation determined by the determination unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a support device that supports workers performing experimental work in a research facility. [Background technology]

[0002] Research is currently being conducted in research facilities to introduce experimental robots and automate tasks that were previously performed manually. For example, Non-Patent Document 1 discloses an autonomous experimental system. [Prior art documents] [Non-patent literature]

[0003] [Non-Patent Document 1] "Verifying the usefulness of the world's first robot-compatible LC and LC-MS autonomous experimental system with Kobe University. Prototype released for researchers considering automation," [Retrieved January 16, 2021], Internet<URL: https: / / www.shimadzu.co.jp / news / press / 7b4ut3plj5emypl8.html> Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The method of automating experimental tasks by introducing experimental robots, such as autonomous experimental systems, is effective for routine tasks that involve repeating a set experimental protocol. However, depending on the research objectives, etc., there are cases where it is necessary for the operator to flexibly plan and carry out experimental tasks, rather than repeating routine tasks.

[0005] In particular, in facilities such as university laboratories that handle a variety of research themes, each worker performs different experimental tasks, making the introduction of experimental robots impractical. Another issue is that automating all experimental tasks may take away the enjoyment that workers get from actually doing the experimental tasks.

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an assistance device that can flexibly assist an operator in performing an experiment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The support device disclosed herein includes a first acquisition unit that acquires profile information of a worker performing experimental work in a research facility, a second acquisition unit that acquires work information related to the experimental work performed by the worker, a prediction unit that predicts the experimental work that the worker will perform based on the work information acquired by the second acquisition unit, a determination unit that determines a first support action for supporting the experimental work predicted by the prediction unit based on the experimental work predicted by the prediction unit and the profile information, and an output unit that outputs information for executing the first support action determined by the determination unit. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the support device disclosed herein, experimental work is predicted based on work information related to the work performed by a worker, and support actions for supporting the predicted experimental work are determined based on the worker's profile information, thereby enabling flexible support of the worker's experimental work. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining an overview of a support device. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a hardware configuration of the support device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an overview of processing performed by the support device; [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of a personnel DB. [Diagram 5]2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of a protocol DB. FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of a support DB. [Figure 7] 13 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the support device. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a process performed by a support device according to a first modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an overview of the process of the support device according to the second modification. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an overview of the process of the support device according to the third modification. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an overview of the process of the support device according to the fourth modified example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same or corresponding parts are designated by the same reference characters and their description will not be repeated.

[0011] [Summary of support] An overview of the support provided by the support device 100 of the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a conceptual diagram for explaining the overview of the support device. The support device 100 supports a worker A who performs an experiment in a research facility.

[0012] Here, the term "research facility" refers to a site where experiments including analysis are performed, and includes, for example, not only a corporate or university research laboratory, but also an institution in the medical field whose main purpose is analysis. For example, the support device 100 is installed in one laboratory and supports an operator as necessary. Note that the support device 100 may move between multiple laboratories.

[0013] Additionally, "experimental work" refers to various tasks that occur when conducting an experiment, including analysis. In other words, an experiment is realized by combining multiple experimental tasks. For example, an experiment analyzing a sample is realized by combining various experimental tasks such as (1) sample pretreatment, (2) placing the sample in an analytical device, (3) starting the analysis, and (4) analyzing the analysis results.

[0014] The support device 100 acquires the ID number of the worker A as characteristic information 220 for identifying the worker A from an information source 600 such as an ID card worn by the worker A. The support device 100 acquires profile information of the worker A based on the characteristic information 220. The support device 100 also acquires work information 30 related to the experimental work performed by the worker A from an analytical device 510, which is an in-facility device 500.

[0015] The support device 100 predicts an experimental task that the worker A will perform, based on the acquired task information 30. The support device 100 determines a support action for supporting the predicted experimental task, based on the predicted experimental task that the worker A will perform, and the profile information 20.

[0016] Here, "assistance action" is not limited to performing part of the experimental work, but may be any action to assist the experimental work, such as informing the operator of various precautions regarding the experimental work, informing the operator of what to do next, translating specifications, etc. into a language that the operator can use.

[0017] The support device 100 executes the determined support action. Note that the support device 100 may output information on the determined support action to the in-facility device 500 in order to cause the in-facility device 500 to perform the determined support action.

[0018] 1, the support device 100 predicts that the operator A will perform an analysis using the analysis device 510 as an experiment, and predicts that the operator A will transport a sample as the next experimental task. In this case, the support device 100 determines from the profile information of the operator A that the operator A has weak leg strength and needs support for the task of transporting a sample as the next experimental task, and transports the sample as the assisting action.

[0019] In this way, the support device 100 predicts experimental work based on work information 30 related to the work to be performed by the worker, and determines support actions for supporting the predicted experimental work based on the worker's profile information 20, thereby enabling the support device 100 to flexibly support the worker's experimental work.

[0020] Because it can flexibly support workers' experimental work, it can reduce the workload of workers even in research facilities such as universities and new drug research institutes, where each worker performs different experimental tasks and where experiments change from day to day.

[0021] [Hardware configuration of support device] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the hardware configuration of the support device. The support device 100 includes a controller 101, a camera 102, a microphone 103, a speaker 104, and a drive device 105. The camera 102, the microphone 103, the speaker 104, and the drive device 105 are connected to the controller 101. The camera 102 and the microphone 103 are an example of a device for acquiring an information source 600 in a facility. As an example, the camera 102 acquires an image of an ID card, and the microphone 103 acquires the voice of the worker A. The speaker 104 and the drive device 105 are an example of a device for executing a support operation. As an example, the speaker 104 executes a support operation by voice, such as a point to be noted in the next experimental work. In addition, the drive device 105 moves an arm, a wheel, and the like equipped in the support device 100, and executes a support operation such as transporting an object.

[0022] The controller 101 has, as its main components, a processor 11, a memory 12, a communication interface (I / F) 13, and an input / output I / F 14. These components are connected to each other via a bus 15 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0023] The processor 11 is typically an arithmetic processing unit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or an MPU (Micro Processing Unit). The processor 11 controls the operation of the support device 100 by reading and executing a program stored in the memory 12.

[0024] The memory 12 is realized by a storage device such as a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The ROM stores the program executed by the processor 11. The RAM can temporarily store data used during execution of the program by the processor 11, and can function as a temporary data memory used as a working area. The HDD is a non-volatile storage device. In addition to the HDD, or instead of the HDD, a semiconductor storage device such as a flash memory may be adopted. The above programs and / or data may be stored in an external storage device accessible by the processor 11.

[0025] The communication I / F 13 is a communication interface for exchanging various data with an external device such as the in-facility device 500, and is realized by an adapter or a connector. The communication method may be a wireless communication method using a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or a wired communication method using a USB (Universal Serial Bus). The support device 100 acquires information from the in-facility device 500 via the communication I / F 13, and also acquires information from various databases (DBs) 200, 300, 400 described later.

[0026] The input / output I / F 14 is an interface for transmitting various types of data between the processor 11 and external devices connected to the input / output I / F 14. The external devices include a camera 102, a microphone 103, a speaker 104, and a driving device 105.

[0027] [Summary of support device processing] 3 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the processing of the support device. As described above, the support device 100 includes the controller 101, the camera 102, the microphone 103, the speaker 104, and the drive device 105. The controller 101 includes an acquisition unit 110, a prediction unit 120, a determination unit 130, and an output unit 140. The functions of each of these units included in the controller 101 are realized by the processor 11 executing a program stored in the memory 12.

[0028] The acquisition unit 110 acquires information required to determine a support action for the worker from the in-facility device 500, the camera 102, the microphone 103, etc. The function of the acquisition unit 110 is realized by the communication I / F 13.

[0029] The in-facility device 500 is a device installed in a facility, a device operated by an operator, etc. For example, the in-facility device 500 includes an analysis device 510 used for performing analysis, an information terminal 520 such as a PC or a smartphone used by an operator to register and confirm an experiment protocol, a wearable device 530 worn by the operator, a camera 540 arranged in the facility, etc. Note that these devices are merely examples, and the acquisition unit 110 may acquire information from other devices.

[0030] The camera 102 and microphone 103 acquire various information from an information source 600 within the facility. The information source 600 is, for example, the face of a worker, the voice of a worker, an ID card carried by a worker, and the like. The acquisition unit 110 includes a profile information acquisition unit 111 and a task information acquisition unit 112 .

[0031] The profile information acquisition unit 111 acquires the worker's profile information 20. As an example, the profile information acquisition unit 111 acquires characteristic information 220 for identifying the worker from the in-facility device 500, the camera 102, the microphone 103, etc. The profile information acquisition unit 111 acquires the worker's profile information 20 from a personnel database (DB) 200 that compiles the profile information 20 of each worker, using the acquired characteristic information 220. The characteristic information 220 is, for example, an ID number acquired from an ID card or the like, the worker's physical characteristics (voice, face, height, etc.), etc.

[0032] 4 is a diagram showing a schematic example of a data configuration of a personnel DB. The personnel DB 200 includes a plurality of pieces of profile information 20. The profile information 20 includes an ID number, which is an example of characteristic information 220, and skill information 24. The profile information 20 may include other characteristic information 220 such as age, sex, the worker's face, and voice. The profile information acquisition unit 111 acquires the worker's profile information 20 by acquiring the profile information 20 including the acquired characteristic information 220 from the personnel DB 200.

[0033] The skill information 24 indicates the ability of the worker to carry out experimental work, and is information for determining how much support the worker needs. For example, the skill information 24 includes eyesight, leg strength, experience value, language used, etc. The experience value means an experience value for experimental work, and may be set according to the type of experimental work. For example, the experience value may be set for each analytical device according to the number of times or number of years that the analytical device has been used.

[0034] Returning to Fig. 3, the work information acquisition unit 112 acquires work information 30 from the in-facility device 500, the camera 102, the microphone 103, etc. The work information 30 is information related to an experimental work performed by an operator, and is used to identify a work currently being performed or a work to be performed in the future. The work information 30 includes, for example, registered analysis conditions that can be acquired from the analysis device 510, the operator's schedule that can be acquired from the information terminal 520, the operator's movements that can be acquired from the wearable device 530, the camera 540, or the camera 102, the operator's voice that can be acquired from the microphone 103, etc.

[0035] The prediction unit 120 predicts an experimental task that the worker will perform, based on the task information 30 acquired by the task information acquisition unit 112. As an example, the prediction unit 120 includes a protocol acquisition unit 121. The protocol acquisition unit 121 identifies the current experiment based on the task information 30, and acquires protocol information 320 corresponding to the experiment from the protocol DB 300.

[0036] 5 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of a protocol DB. Protocol DB 300 includes multiple pieces of protocol information 320. Protocol information 320 is information indicating a protocol of an experiment, and includes information 322 indicating the experiment, and one or more tasks 32 and information 324 indicating the procedure of the experiment.

[0037] The protocol acquisition unit 121 identifies the task 32 being performed by the worker from the task information 30. Protocol information 320 including the identified task 32 is acquired from the protocol DB 300. Note that the protocol acquisition unit 121 may comprehensively identify the task 32 from multiple pieces of task information 30. Furthermore, the protocol acquisition unit 121 may identify multiple tasks 32 from multiple pieces of task information 30, and identify an experiment from the identified multiple tasks 32.

[0038] Returning to Figure 3, the prediction unit 120 predicts the work to be performed after the work 32 identified based on the work information 30 from the protocol information 320 acquired by the protocol acquisition unit 121, and creates next work information 34 indicating the experimental work that the worker will next perform.

[0039] The prediction unit 120 may create next task information 34 from the task information 30. For example, when information indicating a schedule of a worker is acquired from the information terminal 520 as the task information 30, the prediction unit 120 may predict the task that the worker will perform next based on the current time and the task information 30. That is, the prediction method is not particularly limited, and differs depending on what information is acquired as the task information 30, such as whether the task information 30 is information indicating a current experimental task or information indicating an experimental task to be performed next.

[0040] The determination unit 130 determines an assisting action for assisting the experimental work predicted by the prediction unit 120, based on the next task information 34 created by the prediction unit 120 and the profile information 20. As an example, the determination unit 130 includes a assisting information acquisition unit 131. The assisting information acquisition unit 131 acquires, based on the next task information 34, from the assistance DB 400, assisting information 40 indicating an assisting action for assisting the experimental work indicated by the next task information 34.

[0041] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the support DB. The support DB 400 includes a plurality of pieces of support information 40. The support information 40 is information in which an experimental task 42, a skill 44 of a worker, and a support action 46 for supporting the experimental task set for each skill are associated with each other. The support information acquisition unit 131 acquires the support information 40 including the experimental task 42 corresponding to the acquired next task information 34 from the support DB 400. Here, as shown in FIG. 6, the support information 40 includes no support as a support action 46. That is, depending on the skill of the worker, support for the experimental task may not be necessary. Note that the skill is a skill for performing the experimental task, and is not limited to the information shown in FIG. 6. For example, the skill may be an experience value for the experimental task.

[0042] Returning to FIG. 3, the determination unit 130 determines an assisting action 46 corresponding to the skill information 24 based on the assisting information 40 acquired by the assisting information acquisition unit 131 and the skill information 24 of the profile information 20, and creates work assisting information 50 for executing the determined assisting action 46.

[0043] The skills 44 in the support information 40 correspond to the skill information 24 included in the profile information 20. The determination unit 130 identifies the skills of the worker based on the skill information 24 included in the profile information 20, and determines a support action according to the identified skills.

[0044] In this embodiment, the support information 40 includes no support as the support action 46. That is, depending on the skill of the worker, it may be decided not to support the experiment work. In this way, the support device 100 can prevent excessive support by not supporting the experiment work depending on the skill of the worker. Furthermore, since the support device provides support according to the skill of the worker, various workers with different skills can work, and diversity in the workplace can be achieved.

[0045] The output unit 140 outputs the work support information 50 in order to execute the support action 46 determined by the determination unit 130. The output unit 140 determines the output destination of the work support information 50 according to the determined support action 46. For example, when the support action 46 is carrying an object, the output unit 140 outputs the work support information 50 to the driving device 105. The driving device 105 is a device for executing the support action. When the support action 46 is a suggestion, the output unit 140 outputs the work support information 50 to the speaker 104. When the in-facility device 500 executes the support action 46, such as starting the operation of the analysis device 510, the output unit 140 outputs the work support information 50 to the in-facility device 500.

[0046] According to this embodiment, the support device 100 predicts an experimental task based on the task information 30 and determines a support action for supporting the predicted experimental task based on the profile information 20, so that the support device 100 can flexibly support the experimental task of the worker. Since the support device 100 provides support according to the profile information 20, the support device 100 can provide support according to each worker, and can provide an environment in which various workers can comfortably perform experimental tasks. As a result, a diverse environment can be provided. Specifically, by receiving support from the support device 100, workers with physical disabilities due to various congenital or acquired reasons can work in a research facility. In addition, the support device 100 provides support according to the language ability of the worker, so that workers of various nationalities can work in a research facility.

[0047] In addition to the predicted experimental work, the support device 100 can provide support tailored to the worker by determining the support action by referring to the worker's profile. In addition, the support device 100 does not perform all experimental work in a research facility, but supports the work. Therefore, symbiosis between the worker and the support device 100 can be realized without taking away all of the work of the worker.

[0048] [flowchart] Fig. 7 is a flowchart showing the processing executed by the support device. Each processing (step) shown in Fig. 7 is realized by the processor 11 executing a program stored in the memory 12. In the following, "step" is abbreviated as S. Also, the processing shown in Fig. 7 is executed at a predetermined cycle.

[0049] In S101, the support device 100 judges whether or not a support request has been made. Whether or not a support request has been made can be judged based on whether or not a specific call has been made from the worker. When the support device 100 judges that there has been no support request (NO in S101), it ends the process. When the support device 100 judges that there has been a support request (YES in S101), it advances the process to S102 and onward.

[0050] In S102, the support device 100 acquires the profile information 20. For example, the support device 100 acquires the characteristic information 220 of the worker who has made the support request, and acquires the profile information 20 of the worker who has made the support request from the personnel DB 200 based on the characteristic information 220.

[0051] In S103, the support device 100 acquires task information 30. Note that the support device 100 may acquire multiple pieces of task information 30. For example, the support device 100 may acquire analysis conditions as task information 30 from the analysis device 510, and acquire information on the movement of the worker as task information 30 from the camera 102.

[0052] In S104, the assistance device 100 predicts the experimental work that the worker will perform next, based on the work information 30. The prediction method is not particularly limited, and differs depending on what information has been acquired as the work information 30.

[0053] In S105, the support device 100 judges whether support is necessary. More specifically, the support device 100 judges whether support for the worker is necessary based on the profile information 20 and the next experimental work predicted in S104. If the support device 100 judges that support is not necessary (NO in S105), it ends the process. If the support device 100 judges that support is necessary (YES in S105), it advances the process to S106 and onward.

[0054] The method of determination is not limited to the method of acquiring the support information 40 and making a decision according to the support information 40. For example, the support device 100 may determine whether support is necessary or not by considering the current situation of the worker in addition to the profile information 20 and the next experimental work predicted in S104. For example, the support device 100 may determine that support is necessary when it is determined that the worker has sufficient skills but needs support based on the current situation of the worker. Note that, when there is a support request from the worker, the support device 100 may execute the processes from S106 onward, assuming that a support operation is necessary, without executing the process of S105.

[0055] In S106, the support device 100 determines the support action. Specifically, the support device 100 determines the support action based on the profile information 20, the next experimental work predicted in S104, and the support information 40. The support device 100 may further determine the support action in consideration of the situation of the worker.

[0056] In S107, the support device 100 outputs the work support information 50 for executing the determined support action, and ends the process. The output destination is set according to the determined support action. Although not shown, when the support device 100 executes the support action, after executing the process of S107, the support device 100 executes the support action and ends the process.

[0057] As described above, the support device 100 predicts experimental work based on the work information 30 related to the work to be performed by the worker, and determines a support action for supporting the predicted experimental work based on the profile information 20 of the worker.

[0058] In the example shown in Fig. 7, the support device 100 executes each process for executing a support action when a support request is made. That is, each function shown in Fig. 3 works when a support request is made, and for example, the determination unit 130 determines a support action when a support request is made. Therefore, the support device 100 can provide a support action in response to a support request from a worker. That is, the worker can use the support device as necessary.

[0059] The support device 100 may execute the processes from S102 onwards at a predetermined interval regardless of whether or not a support request has been made, and when a support request has been made, may give priority to executing the processes from S102 onwards in order to respond to the support request.

[0060] In the above embodiment, the process (S105) for determining whether or not support is required is executed. Note that the support device 100 may execute the processes from S106 onwards without executing the process of S105 when there is a support request, and may execute the process of S105 when the processes from S102 onwards for executing the support operation are executed regardless of whether there is a support request. In this way, support is always provided when there is a support request, and support can be provided according to the worker's situation and / or skill even when there is no support request.

[0061] In the above embodiment, the personnel DB 200, the protocol DB 300, and the support DB 400 are each provided separately from the support device 100. Note that the support device 100 may include at least one of the personnel DB 200, the protocol DB 300, and the support DB 400.

[0062] [Variation 1] Fig. 8 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the processing of the support device according to Modification 1. Note that in Fig. 8, the description of functions common to the processing of the support device explained above is omitted.

[0063] The support device 100A may acquire an evaluation result for the support action and make the evaluation result available. The support device 100A further includes an evaluation result acquisition unit 113 and a creation unit 152, and includes a prediction unit 120A, a determination unit 130A, and an output unit 140A instead of the prediction unit 120, the determination unit 130, and the output unit 140. Note that the prediction unit 120A, the determination unit 130A, and the output unit 140A have the functions of the prediction unit 120, the determination unit 130, and the output unit 140, respectively.

[0064] The evaluation result acquisition unit 113 acquires the evaluation result 62 for the assisting motion. For example, the evaluation result acquisition unit 113 acquires the evaluation result 62 by collecting voices indicating the worker's evaluation of the assisting motion from the microphone 103. Note that a questionnaire about the assisting motion may be conducted for the worker using the information terminal 520, and the evaluation result acquisition unit 113 may acquire the questionnaire result as the evaluation result 62 from the information terminal 520.

[0065] The creation unit 152 creates evaluation information 60 in which the evaluation result 62 is associated with information about the assisting motion. The information about the assisting motion may include, for example, information indicating the assisting motion (task support information 50) as well as information used until the execution of the assisting motion is decided (for example, profile information 20, next task information 34, task information 30, etc.). That is, the creation unit 152 creates the evaluation information 60 in which the evaluation information 60 is associated with information about the assisting motion so that the evaluation result 62 can be used. The evaluation information 60 is at least information that can identify which assisting motion the evaluation result 62 is for, and preferably includes information that indicates the process until the assisting motion is decided.

[0066] The output unit 140A outputs the evaluation information 60 created by the creation unit 152 to an evaluation information DB 700, which is an example of a storage device. By collecting and storing the evaluation information 60 in the evaluation information DB 700, the developer of the support device 100 can refer to the evaluation information DB 700 and modify the algorithm up to the determination of the support action. This makes it possible to provide a more accurate support action. The support device 100 may refer to the evaluation information DB 700 to determine the support action or predict the next task.

[0067] For example, the prediction unit 120A includes a task information update unit 122. The task information update unit 122 may acquire the evaluation information 60 by referring to the evaluation information DB 700, and update the protocol information 320 in the protocol DB 300 based on the evaluation information 60. As an example, the task information update unit 122 analyzes the evaluation result 62 included in the evaluation information 60 and the process up until the assisting action is determined, and updates the protocol information 320 when it determines that the prediction of the next task was inappropriate.

[0068] The determination unit 130A includes a support information update unit 132. The support information update unit 132 may acquire the evaluation information 60 by referring to the evaluation information DB 700, and update the support information 40 in the support DB 400 based on the evaluation information 60. As an example, the support information update unit 132 analyzes the evaluation result 62 included in the evaluation information 60 and the process up to the determination of the support action, and updates the support information 40 when it is determined that there is no problem with the prediction of the next task and that the determined support action is inappropriate.

[0069] As described above, the support device 100A creates and stores the evaluation information 60, thereby enabling improvements to the support action, and providing a support action that better matches the needs of the worker. Furthermore, the support information update unit 132 uses the evaluation information 60 to update the support DB 400, and the determination unit 130A can determine the support action by referring to the evaluation information 60. This allows a support action that better matches the needs of the worker to be provided. Furthermore, the task information update unit 122 uses the evaluation information 60 to update the protocol DB 300, and the prediction unit 120A can predict the next task by referring to the evaluation information 60. This allows a more accurate prediction to be achieved, and a support action that better matches the needs of the worker to be provided.

[0070] The evaluation information DB 700 is provided separately from the support device 100A. The support device 100A may include the evaluation information DB 700.

[0071] [Variation 2] Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the processing of the support device according to Modification 2. Note that in Fig. 9, the description of functions common to the processing of the support device explained above is omitted.

[0072] The support device 100B may provide not only support for the experimental work but also a support operation for making the work environment more comfortable. Making the work environment more comfortable means making it better than the current situation, and includes improving a negative situation.

[0073] The support device 100B includes a work information acquisition unit 112B, a determination unit 130B, and an output unit 140B instead of the work information acquisition unit 112, the determination unit 130, and the output unit 140. Note that the work information acquisition unit 112B, the determination unit 130B, and the output unit 140B have the functions of the work information acquisition unit 112, the determination unit 130, and the output unit 140, respectively.

[0074] The work information acquisition unit 112B acquires environmental information 70 in addition to the work information 30. The environmental information 70 is information related to the work environment of the worker, and includes, for example, map information 72, flow line information 74, solvent information 76, and heat source information 78.

[0075] The map information 72 is information showing the arrangement of objects in the worker's work environment, and can be obtained, for example, from a camera 540 installed in the facility. The flow line information 74 is information showing how the worker moves in the facility, and can be obtained, for example, from a camera 540 installed in the facility or a wearable device 530 worn by the worker. The solvent information 76 is a monitoring result of monitoring the solvent in the facility. For example, when an organic solvent is used in the facility, the work information acquisition unit 112B acquires, as the solvent information 76, information showing the type of the organic solvent, the time the organic solvent is left outside the draft, and the like. The heat source information 78 is information showing a heat source arranged in the work environment, and can be obtained, for example, from an infrared sensor (not shown). There are various heat sources in the research facility. For example, when the surroundings of the light source become hot due to heat radiated from the light source provided in the analysis device 510, the surroundings of the light source can be the heat source. Also, when heat is released by a chemical reaction, a reaction tank such as a beaker or a flask can be the heat source.

[0076] The determination unit 130B determines an assisting action for allowing the worker to comfortably perform an experiment in the work environment based on the environmental information 70, and creates comfort improvement support information 52 indicating the determined assisting action. Specifically, the determination unit 130B includes a notification determination unit 133, a map creation unit 134, a flow line creation unit 135, and a proposal determination unit 136.

[0077] The notification determination unit 133 identifies warnings for the worker based on the solvent information 76 or heat source information 78, which are the environmental information 70. The notification determination unit 133 determines to notify the worker of the identified warnings as a support action for making the work environment comfortable, and creates warning information 522 as comfort improvement support information 52.

[0078] For example, when it is identified based on the solvent information 76 that a toxic organic solvent is being used outside the fume hood, the notification determination unit 133 determines to notify of the risk. Furthermore, based on the heat source information 78, when the heat source is above or below a predetermined temperature, the notification determination unit 133 may notify of the risk associated with the heat source.

[0079] The warning information 522 is information for improving a negative situation in which the worker is not aware of something that he or she should be careful about, and can be said to be information indicating a support operation for making the work environment more comfortable.

[0080] The map creation unit 134 creates a map of the entire work environment based on the map information 72. The map also includes information indicating where things are. The flow line creation unit 135 identifies objects that are located on the worker's flow line by overlaying the worker's flow line indicated by the flow line information 74 on the map created by the map creation unit 134. The proposal decision unit 136 decides to propose moving the identified object, and creates change information 524 as comfort support information 52.

[0081] The output unit 140B outputs comfort improvement support information 52 such as warning information 522 and change information 524. In the example shown in Fig. 9, the output unit 140B outputs the comfort improvement support information 52 to the speaker 104. For example, the speaker 104 makes an announcement to notify the worker of the precautions indicated by the output warning information 522. In addition, the speaker 104 suggests to the worker to move an object based on the output change information 524.

[0082] The output destination is not limited to this. For example, the change information 524 may be output to the information terminal 520, and necessary information such as a proposal for moving an object and how to move it may be displayed on the display unit of the information terminal 520. In addition, when the support device 100B has a light source, the support device 100B may indicate a place to be careful of using the light source and announce the thing to be careful of by voice.

[0083] As described above, the support device 100B is not limited to support for the experimental work, and may further execute a support operation for making the work environment more comfortable. In this way, the operator can concentrate on the experimental work more comfortably. In particular, since the operator can be notified of precautions, the operator can understand what he or she should be careful of during the experimental work, and can perform the experimental work in a safer and more comfortable work environment. In addition, since the movement of an object placed on the movement line is suggested, the operator can notice that an object is placed on the movement line, and can perform the experimental work in a safer and more comfortable work environment.

[0084] [Variation 3] Fig. 10 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the processing of the support device according to Modification 3. Note that in Fig. 10, the description of functions common to the processing of the support device described above is omitted.

[0085] The assistance device 100C is not limited to assistance with experimental work, and may further execute an assistance operation for supporting the health of the worker.

[0086] The support device 100C includes a work information acquisition unit 112C, a determination unit 130C, and an output unit 140C, instead of the work information acquisition unit 112, the determination unit 130, and the output unit 140. Note that the work information acquisition unit 112C, the determination unit 130C, and the output unit 140C have the functions of the work information acquisition unit 112, the determination unit 130, and the output unit 140, respectively.

[0087] The work information acquisition unit 112C acquires behavior information 80 in addition to the work information 30. The behavior information 80 is information indicating the behavior of the worker, and specifically, is video data obtained by the camera 102, 540 capturing an image of the worker.

[0088] The determination unit 130C determines a support action for maintaining the health of the worker based on the behavior information 80, and creates health support information 54 indicating the determined support action. Specifically, the determination unit 130C includes a health care action determination unit 137. When the health care action determination unit 137 determines that the worker has been in the same state for a predetermined period based on the behavior information 80, the health care action determination unit 137 determines to suggest a break as a support action, and creates health support information 54 indicating the break suggestion. For example, the health care action determination unit 137 identifies the posture of the worker by capturing the worker's movements through image analysis of moving image data obtained by photographing the worker. When the health care action determination unit 137 determines that the worker has been in the same posture for a predetermined period, it suggests a break, for example. This allows the worker to be aware of taking regular breaks, allows the worker to perform experimental work more comfortably, and provides an environment in which the worker can work easily. For example, by the worker taking regular breaks, the occurrence of accidents due to a decrease in concentration can be prevented.

[0089] Output unit 140C outputs health support information 54. In the example shown in Fig. 10, output unit 140C outputs health support information 54 to speaker 104. For example, speaker 104 makes a suggestion indicated by the output health support information 54 to the worker.

[0090] As described above, the support device 100C may further execute a support operation for supporting the health of the worker, in addition to the support for the experimental work. In this way, the worker can perform the experimental work more comfortably, and an environment in which the worker can work easily can be provided. In addition, the cost required for managing the health of the worker can be reduced.

[0091] The support device 100C may further measure the body temperature of the worker and suggest the worker to take a break or go home based on the body temperature as a support operation for supporting the worker's health. The support device 100C may also communicate with the worker, such as by greeting the worker, as a support operation for supporting the worker's health. This is expected to provide mental care for the worker.

[0092] [Variation 4] Fig. 11 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the processing of the support device according to Modification 4. Note that in Fig. 10, the description of functions common to the processing of the support device explained above is omitted.

[0093] The support device 100 according to the above embodiment predicts the task and determines the support action by referring to the protocol DB 300 and the support DB 400. The support device 100 may predict the task and / or determine the support action by another method. The support device 100D predicts the task and determines the support action by using AI (Artificial Intelligence).

[0094] The support device 100D includes a prediction section 120D and a determination section 130D instead of the prediction section 120 and the determination section 130. The prediction section 120D includes a process prediction model 128. The determination section 130D includes an support action determination model 138.

[0095] The process prediction model 128 is a neural network generated by machine learning, and when task information 30 is input, it outputs next task information 34. Task information 30 is information related to the current task. The process prediction model 128 predicts the next task from the current task, and outputs information indicating the predicted task as next task information 34.

[0096] The assisting movement determination model 138 is a neural network generated by machine learning, and when the next task information 34 and the profile information 20 are input, it outputs the task support information 50. The assisting movement determination model 138 determines an assisting movement for supporting the task indicated by the next task information 34 according to the worker indicated by the profile information 20, and outputs the determined assisting movement as the task support information 50.

[0097] Known algorithms such as supervised learning, unsupervised learning, and reinforcement learning can be used as a learning algorithm for learning the process prediction model 128 and the assisting operation determination model 138. Note that the assisting device 100D may further train the process prediction model 128 and the assisting operation determination model 138 using the evaluation information 60 described with reference to FIG.

[0098] As described above, the method of predicting a task and determining an assisting action is not limited to the method using a database, but may be a method using AI.

[0099] It should be noted that AI may be used for each process according to the above-mentioned modified example. For example, AI may be used to determine the assisting action for making the working environment comfortable, or AI may be used to determine the assisting action for maintaining health.

[0100] [Aspects] It will be understood by those skilled in the art that the above-described embodiments and modifications are specific examples of the following aspects.

[0101] (Item 1) An assistance device according to one embodiment includes a first acquisition unit that acquires profile information of a worker performing experimental work in a research facility, a second acquisition unit that acquires work information related to the experimental work performed by the worker, a prediction unit that predicts the experimental work that the worker will perform based on the work information acquired by the second acquisition unit, a determination unit that determines a first assistance action for assisting the experimental work predicted by the prediction unit based on the experimental work predicted by the prediction unit and the profile information, and an output unit that outputs information for executing the first assistance action determined by the determination unit.

[0102] According to the support device described in paragraph 1, experimental work is predicted based on work information related to the work performed by the worker, and support actions for supporting the predicted experimental work are determined based on the worker's profile information, thereby enabling flexible support of the worker's experimental work.

[0103] (Item 2) In the support device described in item 1, the work information includes information indicating analysis conditions stored in the analysis device.

[0104] According to the support device described in the second aspect, the experiment work that the operator will perform next can be predicted from the analysis conditions stored in the analysis device.

[0105] (Item 3) In the assisting device described in item 1 or 2, the profile information includes skill information indicating a skill of the worker. The determination unit determines a first assisting action according to the skill based on the skill information.

[0106] According to the assistance device described in paragraph 3, the assistance device provides assistance according to the skills of the worker, allowing a variety of workers with different skills to work, thereby realizing diversity in the workplace.

[0107] (Item 4) In the support device described in item 3, the decision unit decides whether or not to support the experimental task based on the experimental task predicted by the prediction unit and the skill information.

[0108] The support device described in paragraph 4 can prevent excessive support by not supporting the experiment work depending on the skill of the operator.

[0109] (Item 5) The support device according to item 3 or 4 further includes a third acquisition unit that acquires support information in which an experimental task performed by a worker, a skill of the worker, and a first support action for supporting the experimental task are associated with each other. The determination unit determines the first support action based on the support information.

[0110] According to the assistance device described in paragraph 5, the assistance device provides assistance according to the skills of the worker, allowing a variety of workers with different skills to work, thereby realizing diversity in the workplace.

[0111] (Item 6) In the assisting device according to any one of items 1 to 5, the determination unit determines the first assisting action when a request for assistance is received from the worker.

[0112] According to the assistance device described in paragraph 6, the first assistance action can be provided in response to an assistance request from a worker, so that the worker can use the assistance device as necessary.

[0113] (Clause 7) The assisting device according to any one of clauses 1 to 6 further includes a fourth acquiring unit that acquires an evaluation result for the first assisting action, and a creating unit that creates evaluation information in which the evaluation result and the first assisting action are associated with each other. The output unit outputs the evaluation information to the storage device.

[0114] According to the assisting device described in paragraph 7, the evaluation result for the assisting motion is stored, so that the assisting motion can be improved and an assisting motion that better matches the needs of the worker can be provided.

[0115] (Item 8) In the assisting device according to item 7, the determination unit determines the first assisting action by using the evaluation information.

[0116] According to the assistance device described in paragraph 8, it is possible to provide an assistance operation that matches the needs of the worker.

[0117] (Item 9) In the support device described in item 7 or 8, the prediction unit predicts an experiment task that the operator will perform next, using the evaluation information.

[0118] According to the assistance device described in paragraph 9, more accurate prediction can be realized, and assistance operations that are more suited to the needs of the worker can be provided.

[0119] (Item 10) In the assisting device according to any one of items 1 to 9, the second acquiring unit further acquires environmental information related to the working environment of the worker. The determining unit further determines a second assisting motion for the worker to comfortably perform the experimental work in the working environment based on the environmental information. The output unit further outputs information for executing the second assisting motion.

[0120] According to the support device described in paragraph 10, an environment can be provided in which the operator can perform the experiment work more comfortably and concentrate.

[0121] (Item 11) In the support device described in Item 10, the environmental information includes at least one of information regarding an organic solvent disposed in the work environment and information indicating a heat source disposed in the work environment. The determination unit identifies precautions for the worker based on the environmental information, and determines to notify the worker of the identified precautions as the second support action.

[0122] According to the support device described in paragraph 11, it is possible to notify the operator of important points, so that the operator can understand what he or she needs to be careful of during experimental work, and can perform experimental work in a safer and more comfortable working environment.

[0123] (Item 12) In the support device described in item 10 or 11, the environmental information includes information on the arrangement of objects in the work environment and information on the worker's movement path. The determination unit identifies objects arranged on the worker's movement path based on the environmental information, and determines to propose, as the second support action, moving the objects arranged on the identified worker's movement path.

[0124] According to the support device described in paragraph 12, by suggesting the movement of an object placed on the path of movement, the worker can become aware that an object is placed on the path of movement, and by moving the object, the experimental work can be carried out in a safer and more comfortable working environment.

[0125] (Item 13) In the assisting device described in items 1 to 12, the task information includes information indicating an action of the worker. The determining unit determines a third assisting motion for maintaining the health of the worker based on the task information. The output unit further outputs information for executing the third assisting motion.

[0126] According to the support device described in paragraph 13, the operator can perform the experiment more comfortably, and the operator can be provided with an easy-to-work environment. In addition, the cost required for managing the operator's health can be reduced.

[0127] (Item 14) In the support device described in item 13, when the decision unit determines based on the work information that the worker has been in the same state for a predetermined period of time, it decides to suggest a break as a third support action.

[0128] According to the support device described in paragraph 14, the worker can be made aware of the need to take regular breaks, and can perform experimental work more comfortably, providing the worker with an environment in which it is easy to work. For example, by the worker taking regular breaks, the occurrence of accidents due to reduced concentration can be prevented.

[0129] The embodiments disclosed herein are also intended to be combined as appropriate within the scope of technical inconsistency. The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered to be illustrative and not restrictive in all respects. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims, not the description of the above embodiments, and is intended to include all modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0130] 11 processor, 12 memory, 13 communication I / F, 14 input / output I / F, 15 bus, 20 profile information, 24 skill information, 30 work information, 32 work, 34 next work information, 40 support information, 42 experimental work, 44 skill, 46 support motion, 50 work support information, 52 comfort support information, 54 health support information, 60 evaluation information, 62 evaluation result, 70 environment information, 72 map information, 74 movement line information, 76 solvent information, 78 heat source information, 80 behavior information, 100, 100A to 100D support device, 101 controller, 102, 540 camera, 103 microphone, 104 speaker, 105 drive device, 110 acquisition unit, 111 profile information acquisition unit, 112, 112B, 112C Work information acquisition unit, 113 Evaluation result acquisition unit, 120, 120A, 120D Prediction unit, 121 Protocol acquisition unit, 122 Work information update unit, 128 Process prediction model, 130, 130A to 130D Determination unit, 131 Support information acquisition unit, 132 Support information update unit, 133 Notification determination unit, 134 Map creation unit, 135 Flow line creation unit, 136 Proposal determination unit, 137 Healthcare action determination unit, 138 Support action determination model, 140, 140A to 140C Output unit, 152 Creation unit, 200 Personnel DB, 220 Feature information, 300 Protocol DB, 320 Protocol information, 400 Support DB, 500 Facility device, 510 Analysis device, 520 Information terminal, 522 Warning information, 524 Change information, 530 Wearable devices, 600 information sources, 700 evaluation information DB.

Claims

1. a first acquisition unit that acquires profile information of an operator who performs an experiment in a research facility; a second acquisition unit that acquires work information related to an experimental work performed by an operator; a prediction unit that predicts an experimental task that an operator will perform based on the task information acquired by the second acquisition unit; a determination unit that determines a first assisting action for assisting the experimental work predicted by the prediction unit, based on the experimental work predicted by the prediction unit and the profile information; and an output unit that outputs information for executing the first assisting action determined by the determination unit.

2. The support device according to claim 1 , wherein the work information includes information indicating analysis conditions stored in the analysis device.

3. The profile information includes skill information indicating a skill of the worker, The assisting device according to claim 1 , wherein the determination unit determines the first assisting action according to a skill based on the skill information.

4. The support device according to claim 3 , wherein the decision unit decides whether or not to support the experimental task based on the experimental task predicted by the prediction unit and the skill information.

5. a third acquisition unit that acquires support information in which an experimental task performed by a worker, a skill of the worker, and a first support action for supporting the experimental task are associated with each other; The support device according to claim 3 , wherein the determination unit determines the first support action based on the support information.

6. The assisting device according to claim 1 , wherein the determination unit determines the first assisting action when a request for assistance is received from a worker.

7. A fourth acquisition unit that acquires an evaluation result for the first assistive motion; A creating unit that creates evaluation information in which the evaluation result and the first assisting action are associated with each other, The support device according to claim 1 , wherein the output unit outputs the evaluation information to a storage device.

8. The assisting device according to claim 7 , wherein the determination unit determines the first assisting action by using the evaluation information.

9. The support device according to claim 7 , wherein the prediction unit predicts an experiment work to be performed by the worker by using the evaluation information.

10. The second acquisition unit further acquires environmental information related to a work environment of the worker, the determination unit further determines a second assisting action for allowing the operator to comfortably perform the experimental work in the work environment, based on the environmental information; and The assistance device according to claim 1 , wherein the output unit further outputs information for executing the second assistance action.

11. the environmental information includes at least one of information regarding an organic solvent disposed in the working environment and information indicating a heat source disposed in the working environment; The determination unit is Identifying precautions for workers based on the environmental information; The support device according to claim 10 , further comprising: determining, as the second support action, to notify an operator of the identified caution.

12. The environmental information includes information regarding the arrangement of objects in a work environment and information regarding the movement of a worker; The determination unit is Identifying an object located on the worker's movement path based on the environmental information; The support device according to claim 10 , further comprising: determining, as the second support action, to propose moving an object arranged on the identified movement path of the worker.

13. The work information includes information indicating the action of a worker, The determination unit determines a third assisting action for maintaining health of the worker based on the work information; and The assistance device according to claim 1 , wherein the output unit further outputs information for executing the third assistance action.

14. The assistance device according to claim 13 , wherein the decision unit decides to suggest, as the third assistance action, a break, when it is determined that the worker has been in the same state for a predetermined period of time based on the work information.

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