Automation support device and automation support method

Abstract

The present invention provides an automation support device that can suitably automate processes while considering the entire operation performed by the robotic device. [Solution] An automation support device that assists in automating processes included in a task, wherein the processor acquires work procedure information relating to a time-series process for a person to perform the task, and requirement specification information relating to the specifications required for an automation system that performs the process, determines a first configuration of the automation system based on the work procedure information, evaluates the performance, productivity and cost of the automation system of the first configuration based on the work procedure information and requirement specification information, and outputs first change support information that assists in changing the first configuration of the automation system based on the evaluation results.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an automation support device and an automation support method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, an information processing device for supporting the editing of work plans has been known. When this information processing device changes the assignment destination of one work assigned to a person to one arm of a robot having a plurality of arms from a state where work is assigned to each arm of the robot and the person, a calculation unit that calculates the work time of the person and the work time of the robot after the change, a comparison unit that compares the work time of the person and the work time of the robot calculated by the calculation unit, and a warning unit that issues a warning when the work time of the robot is longer than the work time of the person as a result of the comparison by the comparison unit (see Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The present disclosure provides an automation support device and an automation support method that can preferably automate processes in consideration of the entire work by a robot device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] One aspect of the present disclosure is an automation support device comprising a processor that assists in automating processes included in work, wherein the processor acquires work procedure information relating to a time-series process for a person to perform and requirement specification information relating to the specifications required of an automation system that performs the process, determines a first configuration of the automation system based on the work procedure information, evaluates the performance, productivity and cost of the automation system of the first configuration based on the work procedure information and the requirement specification information, and outputs first change support information that assists in changing the first configuration of the automation system based on the results of the evaluation.

[0006] One aspect of the present disclosure is an automation support method for supporting the automation of processes included in work, comprising: acquiring work procedure information relating to a time-series process for a person to perform work and requirement specification information relating to the specifications required for an automation system that performs the process; determining a first configuration of the automation system based on the work procedure information; evaluating the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system of the first configuration based on the work procedure information and the requirement specification information; and outputting first change support information that supports changing the first configuration of the automation system based on the results of the evaluation. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to this disclosure, the process can be suitably automated, taking into account the entire operation performed by the robotic device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0008] [Figure 1] Block diagram showing an example configuration of an automation support device. [Figure 2] A block diagram showing an example of various databases contained in memory. [Figure 3] A block diagram illustrating an example of various processes performed by the processor. [Figure 4] Flowchart showing an example of operation of an automation support device [Figure 5] A diagram showing an example of an initial automation configuration. [Figure 6] This diagram shows specific examples of countermeasures and their impact when the evaluation result is negative. [Figure 7] A diagram showing the process of loading goods into containers by people. [Figure 8] External perspective view showing an example of an automated system with an initial automated configuration. [Figure 9] A diagram showing an example of a display corresponding to the evaluation of the initial automation configuration. [Figure 10] External perspective view showing an example of an automated system with the automated configuration after the first modification. [Figure 11] This diagram shows an example of how the display reflects the evaluation of the automation configuration after the first change. [Figure 12] External perspective view showing an example of an automated system with the automated configuration after the second modification. [Figure 13] This diagram shows an example of how the automated configuration will be displayed after the second change. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0009] The embodiments will be described in detail below, with reference to the drawings as appropriate. However, unnecessary details may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters or redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid the following explanation becoming unnecessarily verbose and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings and the following explanation are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0010] (The circumstances leading to the acquisition of the embodiments of this disclosure)

[0011] In the information processing apparatus of Patent Document 1, the comparison of the working hours between the robot and the human is mainly carried out, and no judgment on the feasibility of automation including elements other than the working hours, such as the cost required for the work and the capabilities of the robots performing the work, is made. When attempting to automate the work performed by humans, many parameters are required, but in the information processing apparatus of Patent Document 1, only one of those parameters is considered. Therefore, even if the working hours of the robot are selected to be short, it is difficult to perform automation considering the entire work by the robot device because the cost required for the work of the robot is high or the working accuracy by the robot is low.

[0012] In the following embodiments, an automation support apparatus and an automation support method that can preferably automate processes in consideration of the entire work by a robot device will be described.

[0013] (First Embodiment)

[0014] <Configuration of Automation Support Apparatus> FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an automation support apparatus. The automation support apparatus 100 includes a processor 110, a memory 120, a communication device 130, an input device 140, and a display device 150. The automation support apparatus 100 supports the derivation of an automation system that executes each process (for example, a manufacturing process) included in the work.

[0015] The processor 110 may be configured using, for example, a Central Processing Unit (CPU), a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), or a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU). The processor 110 may also be configured using various integrated circuits (for example, Large Scale Integration (LSI) or Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA)). The processor 110 realizes various functions by executing the programs held in the memory 120. The processor 110 comprehensively controls each part of the automation support apparatus 100 and performs various processes.

[0016] The memory 120 may include, for example, Random Access Memory (RAM), Read Only Memory (ROM), Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid State Drive (SSD), optical disk, or SD card. The memory 120 may be an external storage medium and may be detachable from the automation support device 100. The memory 120 stores various data, information, programs, learning models, etc.

[0017] The communication device 130 communicates various data or information, etc. according to a wired or wireless communication method. The communication method by the communication device 130 may include communication methods such as Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), mobile phone network, or power line communication.

[0018] The input device 140 may include various buttons, keys, keyboards, touch panels, microphones, sensors, scanners, or other input devices. The input device 140 receives input of various data or information, etc. The input device 140 is operated by a user. The user is, for example, an operator or administrator who automates various work processes.

[0019] The display device 150 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The display device 150 displays various data or information, etc. The display by the display device 150 may be confirmed by, for example, a user.

[0020] Note that, although the automation support device 100 has been exemplified as having each component and each function in one device, it is not limited to this. For example, each component and each function of the automation support device 100 may be distributed and arranged and configured as a system (automation support system). The system may be configured in a cloud type on a network or may be configured with an on-premises server device.

[0021] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of various databases contained in memory 120.

[0022] The memory 120 includes a hardware database 121 (also referred to as the hard DB) and a software database 122 (the soft DB).

[0023] The hardware database 121 holds information (hardware) about the hardware that the automation system may have. The hardware information includes robot information, sensor information, hand information, and FA (Factory Automation) equipment information.

[0024] Robot information includes information about the robot device, such as information about the configuration of the robot device. The robot device includes a robot arm and a robot hand. The robot hand is connected to the end of the robot arm and is therefore also called an end effector. Robot information may include, for example, structural information about the structure of the robot device, arm information about the robot arm, and information about the possible installation locations of the robot device, and may also include other information. Structural information may include information indicating the type of structure of the robot device (e.g., Cartesian robot, vertical articulated robot, or other types of structure). Arm information may include information such as the shape, size, weight, and range of motion of the robot arm.

[0025] Sensor information includes information about sensors capable of detecting various events. Sensors may include cameras. Therefore, sensor information may include images captured by cameras. Sensor information includes, for example, information such as the type of sensor (e.g., position detection sensor, speed sensor), events detectable by the sensor, and possible installation locations for the sensor.

[0026] Hand information refers to information about a robot hand. For example, hand information may include information for each hand such as the type of hand (e.g., suction, bifingered, polyfingered, or other types of hands), shape, size, weight, and characteristics of the object that can be grasped by the hand (e.g., the object's gripping surface is flat, the object's gripping surface is smooth, the object is below a certain weight). In other words, hand information may include information about what can be grasped depending on the type of robot hand.

[0027] Factory Automation (FA) equipment information includes information about equipment necessary for automation (FA) within a factory. FA equipment information may include, for example, conveyor information (e.g., type, shape, size, weight of the conveyor belt), frame information (e.g., type, shape, size, weight of the frame), container information (e.g., type, shape, size, weight of the container), and other information.

[0028] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example of various processes performed by the processor 110.

[0029] The processor 110 performs the following processes: inputting work procedure information, creating automation configurations, modifying automation configurations, inputting requirements specification information, cost evaluation, productivity evaluation, performance evaluation, and outputting evaluation results. The processor 110 may also perform other processes.

[0030] The work procedure information input process is the process of inputting work procedure information. Work procedure information is information that indicates the sequence of each step included in various tasks (for example, tasks within a factory), and is information about the time-series steps for a person to perform a task. Work procedure information is presented, for example, in the form of a work procedure manual. Note that the work procedure manual only needs to include information about the content of the steps, and does not need to be time-series information.

[0031] The automation configuration creation process is the process of creating an automation system configuration (automation configuration) that includes robotic devices capable of realizing each step of a work procedure, based on each step of the work procedure information. The automation system may include, for example, robotic devices that perform at least some of the steps of a human's work (e.g., picking robots), and may also include other peripheral equipment (e.g., sensors, cameras, PCs, belt conveyors, containers, stands, and other devices and equipment).

[0032] The automated configuration confirmation and modification process includes a process for confirming (recognizing, analyzing) the detailed configuration of the created or modified automated configuration. The automated configuration confirmation and modification process also includes a process for modifying the automated configuration to create a new automated configuration. In this process, the processor 110 may receive user input via the input device 14 for the initial automated configuration and the modified automated configuration, and make minor changes or fine adjustments to at least some of the configurations in the automated configuration.

[0033] The requirements specification information input process is the process of inputting requirements specification information. Requirements specification information is information that indicates the specifications required for the automation system that will perform each step included in the work. Requirements specification information includes, for example, information on specifications (requirements) from various perspectives required for the introduction of the created automation system. For example, requirements specification information includes information on performance requirements regarding the performance (also called capabilities or specifications) of the automation system, such as whether the robot's capabilities meet the requirements when replacing humans with robots. Requirements specification information also includes information on productivity requirements regarding the productivity of the automation system. Productivity relates to work time and may be indicated, for example, by cycle time. Requirements specification information also includes information on cost requirements regarding the cost of the automation system.

[0034] The requirements specification information includes, for example, information about the item (object, workpiece) to be worked on, equipment information about the equipment used for the work, operation information about the operations required to perform the work, and cost information about the costs required for the work.

[0035] Item information may include information such as the size, weight, and material of the item being handled. Equipment information may include information such as the size of the outbound container in which the items used during placing are stored, the method of storing (packing) the items into the outbound container, the quantity of items to be stored in the outbound container, or the specifications, speed, and layout of the conveyor belt. Equipment information may also include information on the required specifications for the storage container in which the items used during picking are stored.

[0036] Operational information may include information such as the required accuracy of pick-and-place operations by the automated system, the maximum number of repetitions, cycle time, production quantity, and the operating hours and days of the automated system. The maximum number of repetitions is one example of an indicator of the durability of the automated system. Cycle time may be calculated, for example, based on the above-mentioned production quantity and the production time required to produce one item.

[0037] Cost information may include information such as labor costs for human work, depreciation costs for robotic equipment, or labor rate. The above information included in the requirements specification is an example and is not limited to it.

[0038] The cost evaluation process is a process that evaluates the cost required for the automation system. For example, in the cost evaluation process, the processor 110 calculates this cost based on hardware information or software information and assumed automation configuration information held in memory 120. The processor 110 evaluates the cost of the automation system by comparing the calculated cost with the cost information included in the requirements specification information. The cost evaluation here may be, for example, whether the total cost required to build the automation system is within a predetermined cost.

[0039] The productivity evaluation process is a process that evaluates the productivity of an automated system. As an example, in the productivity evaluation process, the processor 110 calculates the productivity (e.g., cycle time) based on hardware information or software information held in memory 120 and information on the assumed automation configuration. The processor 110 evaluates the productivity by comparing the calculated productivity with the operation information (e.g., cycle time) included in the requirements specification information. The productivity evaluation here may be, for example, whether the cycle time for picking and placing items is within a predetermined time.

[0040] The performance evaluation process is a process for evaluating the performance of an automated system. As an example, in the performance evaluation process, the processor 110 calculates this performance based on hardware information or software information and assumed automation configuration information held in memory 120. The processor 110 evaluates the performance by comparing the calculated performance with the item information and equipment information included in the requirements specification information. The performance evaluation here may be, for example, whether or not the pick-and-place operation of the items to be worked on is possible.

[0041] The evaluation result output process is the process of outputting the evaluation results obtained from each of the evaluation processes described above. The evaluation results may include, for example, performance evaluation results, productivity evaluation results, and cost evaluation results, and may also include other information. The processor 110 may also output information on countermeasures to improve the evaluation and other information along with these evaluation results. Note that the output may not be a display, and may include sound output or printing.

[0042] <Operation of automation support device> Next, the operation of the automation support device 100 will be described.

[0043] Figure 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the automation support device 100. In the explanation of Figure 4, an example of utilizing the automation support device 100 is given of considering the automation of the process of loading finished goods from a factory production line into containers for shipment.

[0044] The processor 110 acquires (inputs) work procedure information and requirement specification information (step S11). The work procedure information and requirement specification information may be held in memory 120 and acquired from memory 120, or they may be received and acquired via communication device 130, or they may be acquired via input device 140.

[0045] In step S11, the work procedure information may include, for example, the contents of a work procedure manual or instruction manual for when a worker packs items sent by a conveyor belt into a container. The work procedure information may also include basic information about the items being worked on and the equipment used to perform the work.

[0046] The processor 110 determines the initial automation configuration based on the work procedure information (step S12). In other words, the processor 110 creates the initial configuration of the automation system. Details of the initial automation configuration will be described later. Determining the initial automation configuration is an example of an assumption about the automation configuration. After processing in step S12, the processor 110 may receive user input via the input device 14 to the created automation configuration and make minor changes or fine adjustments to at least some of the configurations in the automation configuration.

[0047] The processor 110 evaluates the performance of the determined (assumed) automation configuration based on the requirements specification information (e.g., performance requirements specification) and displays the performance evaluation result on the display device 15 (step S13). In this case, the processor 110 evaluates whether the performance of the assumed automation configuration (e.g., initial automation configuration) satisfies the requirements specification information and obtains the performance evaluation result. The performance of the assumed automation configuration is the performance of the automation system when it has that configuration, or in other words, it is synonymous with the performance of the automation system with the assumed configuration.

[0048] For example, the performance evaluation results may include an evaluation result "OK" indicating that the performance of the automated configuration meets the requirements if the performance meets the requirements information. For example, the performance evaluation results may include an evaluation result "NG" indicating that the performance of the automated configuration does not meet the requirements if the performance does not meet the requirements information.

[0049] In performance evaluation, for example, the processor 110 evaluates the positioning accuracy of the selected (assumed) robot device, the payload capacity of the robot device, the range of motion of the robot arm, the picking area to be picked up by the robot device, the durability of the robot device, the degrees of freedom of the arm for gripping an item, the type of gripper, the gripper's suitability for the item, the need for image processing using a camera for position detection, and the need for positioning sensors. The range of motion of the arm may be determined, for example, according to the information on the robot arm's length and angle range included in the requirements specification information. The degrees of freedom of the arm for gripping an item will differ, for example, depending on whether it is sufficient to simply move the robot hand over the item from above, or whether it is necessary to rotate the robot hand. The suitability of the gripper may be determined based, for example, on information on the width of the smooth surface of the item included in the requirements specification information.

[0050] The processor 110 determines whether the performance evaluation result meets the performance requirement specification (i.e., the performance evaluation result is OK) (step S14).

[0051] If the performance evaluation result satisfies the performance requirement specification (Yes in step S14), the processor 110 evaluates the productivity of the automation configuration and displays the productivity evaluation result on the display device 15 (step S15). In this case, the processor 110 evaluates whether the productivity of the assumed automation configuration (e.g., the initial automation configuration) satisfies the requirement specification information and obtains the productivity evaluation result. The productivity of the assumed automation configuration is the productivity of the automation system when it has that configuration, or in other words, it is synonymous with the productivity of the automation system with the assumed configuration.

[0052] For example, the productivity evaluation results may include an evaluation result "OK" indicating that the productivity of the automated configuration meets the requirements if the productivity meets the requirements information. For example, the productivity evaluation results may include an evaluation result "NG" indicating that the productivity of the automated configuration does not meet the requirements if the productivity does not meet the requirements information.

[0053] In evaluating productivity, for example, the processor 110 calculates the cycle time by assuming that the robot arm and robot hand operate at predetermined speeds and accelerations in a hypothetical automation configuration, and by assuming that the robot arm and robot hand operate at predetermined speeds and accelerations. The processor 110 may then compare the cycle time for manual operation with the cycle time for this automation configuration. The processor 110 may also compare the daily or monthly production quantity for manual operation with the daily or monthly production quantity for this automation configuration.

[0054] The processor 110 determines whether the productivity evaluation result meets the productivity requirement specification (i.e., the productivity evaluation result is OK) (step S16).

[0055] If the productivity evaluation result satisfies the productivity requirement specification (Yes in step S16), the processor 110 evaluates the cost of the automation configuration and displays the cost evaluation result on the display device 15 (step S17). In this case, the processor 110 evaluates whether the cost of the assumed automation configuration (e.g., the initial automation configuration) is satisfactory for the requirement specification information and obtains the cost evaluation result. The cost of the assumed automation configuration is the cost if the automation system is that configuration, or in other words, it is synonymous with the cost of the automation system with the assumed configuration.

[0056] For example, the cost evaluation results may include an evaluation result "OK" indicating that the cost of the automation configuration meets the requirements if the cost satisfies the requirements information. For example, the productivity evaluation results may include an evaluation result "NG" indicating that the cost of the automation configuration does not meet the requirements if the cost does not satisfy the requirements information.

[0057] In cost evaluation, for example, processor 110 may calculate the cost required for the automated configuration (automation cost) based on the assumed initial investment cost, running costs, and depreciation period of the automated configuration. Alternatively, processor 110 may calculate the annual cost for the same task performed by a human (manual work) based on the cost per unit time and operational information. Processor 110 then compares the automation cost for the automated configuration with the annual cost for manual work. If the comparison shows that the automation cost for the automated configuration is lower than the annual cost for manual work, it may be determined that the automated configuration meets the cost requirement indicator.

[0058] The processor 110 determines whether the cost evaluation result satisfies the cost evaluation indicator (i.e., the cost evaluation result is OK) (step S18).

[0059] On the other hand, if the performance evaluation result does not meet the performance requirement specification (No. in step S14), if the productivity evaluation result does not meet the productivity requirement specification (No. in step S16), or if the cost evaluation result does not meet the cost requirement specification (No. in step S18), the processor 110 changes the assumed automation configuration (step S19). In this case, the processor 110 may receive input from the user via the input device 140 and change the automation configuration. At this time, the user may, for example, check the evaluation result information and countermeasures information displayed on the display device 150 and use this as a reference for changing the automation configuration. Therefore, the automation support device 100 can provide useful information for determining the automation configuration. Thus, the automation configuration may be changed and evaluated repeatedly until each evaluation result for the changed automation configuration meets each requirement specification.

[0060] For example, if the performance evaluation results do not meet the performance requirements (No. in step S14), the processor 110 modifies the automation configuration to enable performance improvements such as changing to a robot device with better performance or reducing the weight of the robot hand (step S19). After processing in step S19, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0061] If no robotic device or automation configuration is available that can accommodate the above changes, the processor 110 may modify the requirements specification information to be robot-friendly. Specifically, the processor 110 may make layout configuration changes such as reducing the distance between the picking position and the placing position, or narrowing the picking area (e.g., the area of ​​the storage container) or the placing area (e.g., the area of ​​the shipping container). This can also be expected to reduce the cost of the automation configuration.

[0062] For example, if the productivity evaluation result does not meet the productivity requirement specifications (No. in step S16), the processor 110 modifies the automation configuration to reduce the cycle time by increasing the operating speed of the robotic device, increasing the number of robotic devices, or processing multiple items by changing the specifications of the robotic hand (step S19). After processing in step S19, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0063] If no robotic device or automation configuration is available that can accommodate the above changes, the processor 110 may modify the requirements specification information to be robot-friendly. Specifically, the processor 110 may increase the operating time or production days of the robotic device. This, too, is expected to reduce the cost of the automation configuration.

[0064] Furthermore, if the cost evaluation results do not meet the cost requirements (No. in step S18), the processor 110 modifies the automation configuration to reduce the cost of the automation configuration, for example, by changing to a less expensive robotic device or reducing peripheral equipment (e.g., a camera for image processing) (step S19). After processing in step S19, the process proceeds to step S13.

[0065] If no robotic device or automation configuration is available that can accommodate the above changes, the processor 110 may modify the requirements specification information to be robot-friendly. Specifically, the processor 110 may shorten the depreciation period, for example. This can also be expected to reduce the cost of the automation configuration.

[0066] Furthermore, the methods for improving each performance evaluation result, productivity evaluation result, and cost evaluation result have different correlations with each of the three requirement specifications (performance requirement specification, productivity requirement specification, and cost requirement specification). Therefore, even if the evaluation result improves for one requirement specification, the evaluation result may worsen for another requirement indicator. Accordingly, the processor 110 returns to step S13 and performs the above three evaluations (performance evaluation, productivity evaluation, and cost evaluation) again for the modified automation configuration.

[0067] If the cost evaluation result satisfies the cost requirement specification (Yes in step S18), that is, if each of the three evaluation results above satisfies the respective requirement specification, the processor 110 determines the automation configuration to the assumed automation configuration and outputs information regarding the determined automation configuration (also referred to as automation configuration information) (step S20). The automation configuration information includes, for example, information on the hardware and software included in the automation system of the determined configuration, and may include identification information for each device or apparatus, connection relationships of each device or apparatus, and software installation information. The output here may include, for example, transmitting it to an external device via the communication device 130, storing the information in the memory 120, or displaying it via the display device 150, or outputting it in any other way.

[0068] For example, by checking the displayed automation configuration information, users can recognize the configuration of the automation system corresponding to the automation configuration information and install or configure various hardware (e.g., various devices, equipment, sensors, etc.) and software (e.g., OS, API) included in the automation system.

[0069] In this way, the automation support device 100 compares the requirements specification information and the automation configuration with respect to the initial automation configuration from three perspectives: "performance," "productivity," and "cost." The automation support device 100 can derive a final automation configuration and operating scenario that satisfies all three perspectives.

[0070] An operation scenario, for example, shows the procedure (scenario) for performing each process according to the determined automation configuration. For example, suppose the final decision is to have an automation system that includes a robot hand capable of picking and placing two items simultaneously. In this case, the work procedure manual does not assume that picking and placing two items simultaneously is possible, so it states "Pick and place two items," whereas the operation scenario, since picking and placing two items simultaneously is possible, states "Pick and place two items simultaneously." For example, the processor 110 may generate an operation scenario based on the determined automation configuration and the work procedure manual.

[0071] Although the example shows that information containing each evaluation result is output at different timings in steps S13, S15, and S17, this is not limited to this. Information containing each evaluation result may be output at the same time at any timing after step S17, when each evaluation has been completed.

[0072] Figure 5 shows an example of an initial automation configuration.

[0073] Memory 120 holds, for example, information about a standard configuration for performing each process (also referred to as standard configuration information). This standard configuration is the base configuration for the automation configuration. Based on the standard configuration information, the processor 110 obtains the automation configuration by determining an automation configuration that can execute each process included in the work procedure information. Note that the standard configuration information may be stored in an external device (e.g., an external server) instead of memory 120. In this case, the processor 110 may obtain the standard configuration information from the external device via the communication device 130.

[0074] For example, an initial automation configuration for performing each step of a goods packing operation includes a control API (Application Programming Interface), a PC (Personal Computer), a frame, a robot device A, a robot hand B, a camera C, a belt conveyor, and a container. For example, the robot device can be composed of at least one of several structures, where the processor 110 specifies robot device A (e.g., an articulated robot). For example, robot hand B can be composed of at least one of several hand types, where the processor 110 specifies robot hand B (e.g., a suction type). For example, the processor 110 may also specify whether or not to include other components (e.g., the PC) in the initial automation configuration, or specify at least one of several options.

[0075] The initial automation configuration may be modified to take into account requirements and specifications that cannot be captured from the work procedure information. For example, the initial automation configuration may be changed if the robotic arm cannot grasp an item considering its weight and size, or if the reach of the robotic arm is insufficient during pick-and-place operations.

[0076] After the initial automation configuration is determined, the automation configuration is sequentially updated to ensure that its performance, productivity, and cost meet the requirements of each process.

[0077] <Specific examples of countermeasures when the evaluation result is negative> Next, we will explain the countermeasures and their impact in cases where the evaluation result is unsatisfactory.

[0078] Figure 6 shows specific examples of countermeasures and their impact when the evaluation result is NG. In Figure 6, predictive information for cost evaluation, predictive information for productivity evaluation, and predictive information for performance evaluation are associated and stored for each countermeasure. The information in Figure 6 may be stored in memory 120 or acquired from an external device via communication device 130. Note that in Figure 6, robot equipment is simply referred to as robot, and the item to be worked on is simply referred to as workpiece. These countermeasures and predictive information for each evaluation are output by processor 110 (for example, displayed via display device 150) and may be used to change the automation configuration or change the requirements specification information.

[0079] Cost evaluation prediction information indicates the degree of improvement (impact) in the cost of the modified automation configuration compared to the cost of the original automation configuration when the automation configuration is changed after implementing countermeasures. Productivity evaluation prediction information indicates the degree of improvement (impact) in the productivity of the modified automation configuration compared to the productivity of the original automation configuration when the automation configuration is changed after implementing countermeasures. Performance evaluation prediction information indicates the degree of improvement (impact) in the performance of the modified automation configuration compared to the performance of the original automation configuration when the automation configuration is changed after implementing countermeasures.

[0080] Countermeasures may include, for example, "extending the depreciation period," "changing the ratio of human work to robotic work," "extending the working time of robots (robot devices)," "increasing the speed of robots," "increasing the number of robots," "increasing the number of objects grasped at one time (multiple pick-up)," "reducing the distance between the picking position and the placing position of workpieces (items)," "reducing the range of the picking area and placing area," "changing to a robot with better performance," and "changing to a lighter end effector," and other countermeasures may also be included. Predictive information for cost evaluation, predictive information for productivity evaluation, and predictive information for performance evaluation may be indicated by, for example, "improvement," "deterioration," or "no impact," and may also be indicated by other information.

[0081] Furthermore, if the solution involves increasing the speed of the robotic device, the relationship may be such that the specifications of the automation system improve, and the cost of the automation system increases. In other words, the relationship may be different from that shown in Figure 6.

[0082] Among the countermeasures shown in Figure 6, "increasing the robot's speed," "increasing the number of robots," "increasing the number of objects grasped at once (multiple pick-up)," "changing to a robot with better performance," and "changing to a lighter end effector" are examples of countermeasures that modify the automation configuration. Among the countermeasures shown in Figure 6, "extending the depreciation period," "changing the ratio of human work to robot work," "extending the working time of the robot (robot device)," and "reducing the size of the picking area and place area" are examples of countermeasures that modify the requirements specification information.

[0083] Furthermore, one countermeasure may involve a trade-off with other evaluation results. In other words, implementing one countermeasure may improve one evaluation result, but worsen others. Even in this case, the automation support device 100 can avoid the overall operation becoming unsuitable by re-evaluating the new automation configuration.

[0084] The information shown in Figure 6 can be used, for example, as follows:

[0085] When the processor 110 of the automation support device 100 processes according to the flowchart in Figure 4, the automation configuration is automatically changed by the process in step S19, so it is not necessary to display the information in Figure 6 on the screen of the display device 150. On the other hand, if at least one item of the cost evaluation, productivity evaluation, and performance evaluation is not evaluated as OK, the processes in steps S13 to S19 of Figure 4 will be repeated.

[0086] In contrast, if the process in steps S13 to S19 of Figure 4 loops a certain number of times and at least one item does not pass evaluation, the processor 110 may display the information in Figure 6 on the screen and prompt the user to select one of the countermeasures via the input device 140. Furthermore, the processor 110 may display the information in Figure 6 and prompt the user to select one of the countermeasures via the input device 140 each time an evaluation of cost evaluation, productivity evaluation, or performance evaluation fails evaluation.

[0087] If the processor 110 processes according to the flowchart in Figure 4, and only the initial performance evaluation is performed and the evaluation fails, the productivity evaluation and cost evaluation will not be performed, and therefore the results of the productivity evaluation and cost evaluation will not be obtained. For this reason, the processor 110 may output the evaluation results, such as evaluation OK or evaluation NG, only after all three evaluations (cost evaluation, productivity evaluation, and performance evaluation) have been obtained. In other words, in this case, the processor 110 may process in the order of steps S13, S15, S17, S14, S16, and S18.

[0088] <Use Cases> Next, we will describe use cases for automation support provided by the automation support device 100.

[0089] Figure 7 shows the process of loading goods into containers by a human (worker). The automation support device 100 automates each step of this goods container loading process so that it is performed by an automated system.

[0090] The processor 110 assumes an automation configuration, such as by creating an initial automation configuration. Based on the assumed automation configuration, the processor 110 derives each evaluation result (e.g., productivity evaluation result, cost evaluation result, performance evaluation result). The processor 110 refers to the memory 120 and derives countermeasures to improve the evaluation and the degree of impact (improvement) of each countermeasure, based on each evaluation result. Here, the processor 110 can recognize which indicator will be improved by selecting which countermeasure. Therefore, the processor 110 can increase the likelihood of improving the evaluation result by selecting a countermeasure that improves aspects where the evaluation result is NG (e.g., performance, productivity, cost). The processor 110 presents (e.g., displays) information on each evaluation result, each countermeasure, and the degree of impact of each countermeasure.

[0091] The user checks information such as each evaluation result, each countermeasure, and the impact of each countermeasure, which are displayed on the display device 150, for example. The user then implements at least one of the countermeasures, taking into account the impact of each countermeasure, that is, modifies at least a part of the configuration in the automated configuration. The processor 110 receives user input, for example via the input device 140, and obtains information on the automated configuration that reflects the modified configuration.

[0092] Figure 8 is an external perspective view showing an example of an automated system 10A with an initial automated configuration. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a display according to the evaluation of the initial automated configuration. Note that the initial automated configuration shown in Figure 8 has the configuration shown in Figure 5 as an example.

[0093] First, let's assume the initial automation configuration includes a robot hand 20A with a suction-type hand. In this case, as an example of the evaluation results, the productivity evaluation result is NG, the cost evaluation result is OK, and the performance evaluation result is NG. As an example of countermeasures, there are two options: Option 1, which involves changing to a gripper that holds items between its teeth, and Option 2, which involves changing to a suction pad that can grip two items simultaneously. In Option 1, the performance improves from NG to OK. In Option 2, the productivity improves from NG to OK. In Figure 9, as an example, Option 1 is selected by the user via the input device 14 and reflected in the change to the automation configuration. The dashed box in Figure 9 indicates that Option 1 has been selected. In Option 1, for example, the robot hand can more easily pick up a bottle with a cap. The information displayed on the display device 150 shown in Figure 9 is information that supports the change to the automation configuration and is an example of the first change support information.

[0094] Figure 10 is an external perspective view showing an example of an automated system 10B with the automated configuration after the first modification. Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of a display corresponding to the evaluation of the automated configuration after the first modification.

[0095] As mentioned above, the automation configuration after the first modification includes a robot hand 20B, which is a single-grasp gripper. In this case, as an example of the evaluation results, the productivity evaluation result is NG, the cost evaluation result is OK, and the performance evaluation result is OK. As an example of countermeasures, options include Option 1, which involves running the automation system 24 hours a day; Option 2, which involves increasing the number of robot devices to two; and Option 3, which involves changing the robot hand to a gripper capable of gripping two objects simultaneously. Running the system 24 hours a day is an example of extending the working time of the robot device. In Option 1, productivity improves, with performance changing from NG to OK. In Option 2, productivity improves, with productivity changing from NG to OK, but costs worsen, with costs changing from OK to NG. In Option 3, productivity improves, with performance changing from NG to OK. In Figure 11, as an example, Option 3 is selected by the user and reflected in the change to the automation configuration. The dashed box in Figure 11 indicates that Option 3 was selected. The information displayed on the display device 150 shown in Figure 11 is an example of output information, including evaluation information. Furthermore, the requirement for 24-hour operation is information that supports changes to the requirements specification information, and is an example of the second type of change support information.

[0096] Figure 12 is an external perspective view showing an example of an automated system 10C with the automated configuration after the second modification. Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of a display corresponding to the evaluation of the automated configuration after the second modification.

[0097] The automated configuration after the second modification, as described above, includes a robot hand 20C, which is a gripper capable of simultaneously grasping two hand types. In this case, as an example of the evaluation results, the productivity evaluation result is OK, the cost evaluation result is OK, and the performance evaluation result is OK. In other words, the productivity evaluation result, cost evaluation result, and performance evaluation result are all OK. If the productivity evaluation result, cost evaluation result, and performance evaluation result are all OK, the processor 110 decides to adopt this automated configuration (automated configuration FIX). Note that in the display corresponding to the evaluation after the second modification shown in Figure 13, the countermeasures do not need to be displayed.

[0098] In the examples shown in Figures 8 to 13, the automation support device 100 can improve the success rate of gripping items by changing the robot hand from a suction type to a gripper capable of gripping and grasping. In other words, it can improve the performance of the automation system. Furthermore, by changing the gripper from one capable of gripping one item at a time to one capable of gripping two items at a time, the automation support device 100 can halve the cycle time while keeping cost increases to a minimum. In other words, it can improve the productivity of the automation system and reduce costs. In this way, the automation support device 100 can satisfy the requirements from three perspectives.

[0099] Furthermore, as an example of the display, the breakdown of each evaluation result may be displayed in detail. For example, the cost of manual labor and the cost of an automated configuration may be displayed, and the breakdown of the cost for manual labor (e.g., man-hours, cost rates, working hours) and the breakdown of the cost for robotic equipment (e.g., man-hours, cost rates, working hours) may be displayed. This allows users to check the display and see the cost difference between manual labor and work performed by robotic equipment, and to intuitively understand the benefits of introducing an automated system.

[0100] Thus, the automation support device 100 of this embodiment can evaluate the configuration of the automated system from various perspectives, not just a single one. Therefore, the automation support device 100 can suitably automate a process by considering the entire operation performed by the automated system, including the robotic device. For example, if the robotic device is selected to shorten its working time, the cost required for the robotic device's operation can be reduced, and a decrease in work accuracy can be suppressed. Therefore, even users unfamiliar with automated systems can easily derive an automated system that receives high evaluations from each perspective using the automation support device 100, thereby lowering the barrier to introducing automated systems.

[0101] Furthermore, the automation support device 100 can generate operation scenarios for executing each process using the finally determined automation system, and provide a platform that allows each process to be easily executed according to the operation scenarios. In this way, the automation support device 100 allows even users unfamiliar with automation systems to easily determine the automation system from both hardware and software perspectives.

[0102] In this embodiment, the automation support device 100 may determine whether it is better to perform automation using an automation system or to perform the work manually. If automation is difficult, the automation support device 100 may decide to perform the work manually. For example, if the process does not meet the predetermined requirements, the automation support device 100 may change the automation configuration. If the automation configuration cannot be changed, or if changing it does not meet the requirements, the automation support device 100 may change the requirements. Furthermore, if the requirements cannot be changed, the automation support device 100 may determine that automation is difficult, decide to have the process that was intended to be automated performed manually, and display this fact on the display device 150.

[0103] In this embodiment, the automation support device 100 is primarily exemplified as supporting the automation of work processes within a factory. However, it is not limited to this and may be applied to supporting work processes in other situations. For example, the automation support device 100 may support the automation of work processes related to logistics.

[0104] (Summary of the embodiment) Based on the above, this disclosure contains at least the following information. The components and other elements in parentheses are examples of those corresponding to the embodiments described above, but are not limited to these.

[0105] (Item 1) An automation support device (automation support device 100) equipped with a processor (processor 110) that assists in automating processes included in the work, The aforementioned processor, The system acquires work procedure information relating to the process for which a person performs the work, and requirement specification information relating to the specifications required for the automated system that executes the said process. Based on the aforementioned work procedure information, the first configuration (initial automation configuration) of the automation system is determined. Based on the aforementioned work procedure information and the aforementioned requirements specification information, the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system of the first configuration are evaluated. Based on the results of the evaluation, first change support information is output to assist in changing the first configuration of the automation system. Automation support equipment.

[0106] This allows the automation support device to determine the configuration of the automation system that executes each process, taking into account not only a single parameter such as cycle time, but also the entire operation by the robotic device, considering performance, productivity, and cost, and thus enabling the automation of each process. Furthermore, a user who has confirmed the output of the first change support information can change the first configuration of the automation system to determine a suitable configuration of the automation system. The processor may display the first change support information via a display device (an example of an output device) as an example of the output of the first change support information.

[0107] (Item 2) The aforementioned processor, Based on the aforementioned work procedure information and the aforementioned requirements specification information, the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system of the second configuration (modified automation configuration) in which the first configuration has been modified are evaluated. Output information including the results of the above evaluation, The automation support device described in item 1.

[0108] Changing the configuration of an automated system may improve its evaluation from one perspective while worsening it from another. In response to this, the automation support device can re-evaluate the automated system with the changed configuration, thereby preventing the system from being configured with a poorly-rated configuration.

[0109] (Item 3) The processor outputs second change support information to assist in changing the requirements specification information if at least one of the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system in the second configuration does not meet the requirements specification information. The automation support device described in item 2.

[0110] As a result, even if the automation support device cannot meet the requirements due to changes in the configuration of the automation system, it is expected that each process can be automated by changing the requirements specification information. The processor may display the second change support information via a display device (an example of an output device) as an example of outputting the second change support information.

[0111] (Item 4) The first change support information includes the evaluation results of the performance, productivity, and cost evaluation, and countermeasure information (information on countermeasure methods) relating to measures to improve the performance, productivity, and cost evaluation, An automation support device according to any one of items 1 through 3.

[0112] This allows users to easily understand what specific changes need to be made to the configuration of their automated system by reviewing the countermeasure information.

[0113] (Item 5) The aforementioned countermeasure information includes the content of the countermeasure and impact information (impact degree information) regarding the impact of the implementation of the countermeasure on the evaluation of performance, productivity, and cost. Item 4: Automation support device.

[0114] This allows users to easily understand how changes to the automated system configuration resulting from countermeasures will affect the evaluation by reviewing the countermeasure information.

[0115] (Item 6) The processor, if the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system in the second configuration all meet the requirements specification information, generates an operation scenario for the automation system in the second configuration to perform each process, based on the automation system in the second configuration and the work procedure information. An automation support device according to any one of items 2 through 5.

[0116] This allows the automation support device to generate detailed operational scenarios in which each process can be executed by the automation system with the final determined configuration.

[0117] (Item 7) An automation support method that assists in automating processes included in a task, To obtain work procedure information related to the process for which a person performs the work, and requirement specification information related to the specifications required for the automated system that performs the said process, Based on the aforementioned work procedure information, the first configuration of the automation system is determined, Based on the aforementioned work procedure information and the aforementioned requirements specification information, the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system of the first configuration are evaluated. Based on the results of the evaluation, first change support information is output to assist in changing the first configuration of the automation system, An automation support method having

[0118] This will produce the same effect as item 1.

[0119] Although various embodiments have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that this disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications or alterations can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these will naturally also fall within the technical scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the components of the above embodiments may be combined in any way without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Industrial applicability]

[0120] This disclosure is useful for automation support devices and automation support methods that can suitably automate processes while considering the entire operation performed by a robotic device. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0121] 10A, 10B, 10B Automation System 20A, 20B, 20C Robot Hand 100 Automation support equipment 110 Processors 120 memory 121 Hardware Database (Hard DB) 122 Software Database (Soft DB) 130 Communication Devices 140 Input Devices 150 display devices

Claims

1. An automation support device equipped with a processor that assists in automating processes included in the work, The aforementioned processor, The system acquires work procedure information relating to a process for human workers, and requirements specification information relating to the specifications required for an automated system including a robotic device that performs the process. Based on the aforementioned work procedure information, the first configuration of the automation system is determined. Based on the aforementioned work procedure information and the aforementioned requirements specification information, the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system of the first configuration are evaluated. Based on the results of the evaluation, first change support information is output to support the modification of the first configuration of the automation system. Automation support equipment.

2. The aforementioned processor, Based on the aforementioned work procedure information and the aforementioned requirements specification information, the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system with the second configuration, in which the first configuration has been modified, are evaluated. Output information including the results of the above evaluation, The automation support device according to claim 1.

3. The processor outputs second change support information to assist in changing the requirements specification information if at least one of the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system in the second configuration does not meet the requirements specification information. The automation support device according to claim 2.

4. The first change support information includes the evaluation results of the performance, productivity, and cost evaluation, and countermeasure information relating to measures to improve the performance, productivity, and cost evaluation, The automation support device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The aforementioned countermeasure information includes the content of the countermeasure and impact information regarding the impact of the implementation of the countermeasure on the evaluation of performance, productivity, and cost. The automation support device according to claim 4.

6. The processor, if the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system in the second configuration all meet the requirements specification information, generates an operation scenario for the automation system in the second configuration to perform each process, based on the automation system in the second configuration and the work procedure information. The automation support device according to claim 2.

7. An automation support method that assists in automating processes included in a task, To obtain work procedure information related to the process for which a person performs the work, and requirement specification information related to the specifications required for the automated system that performs the said process, Based on the aforementioned work procedure information, the first configuration of the automation system is determined, Based on the aforementioned work procedure information and the aforementioned requirements specification information, the performance, productivity, and cost of the automation system of the first configuration are evaluated. Based on the results of the evaluation, first change support information is output to support the modification of the first configuration of the automation system, An automation support method having

Images