Work support system, method and program and server device

Abstract

The present invention provides a work support system, work support method, work support program, and server device that can reduce the increase in psychological burden on workers caused by the presentation of work conditions and improve the psychological state of workers. [Solution] The work support system 1000 in the present invention is a system that presents work conditions to a worker performing a predetermined task, and acquires the psychological state of the worker, adjusts the work conditions for the task based on the acquired psychological state, and presents the adjusted work conditions to the worker.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a work support system, a work support method, a work support program, and a server device that present work conditions to a worker who performs a predetermined work.

Background Art

[0002] When performing a predetermined work, a worker may perform the work based on the presented information. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a remote server that selects a work plan from a plurality of work plans based on date and time information and a work area, and transmits the selected work plan to a terminal.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, depending on the work conditions, which are the conditions imposed on the worker when performing the work, the presentation of the work conditions may affect the mental state of the worker and may cause an increase in the mental burden. For example, when work conditions that the worker feels are severe are presented, the worker may feel a mental burden.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a work support system, a work support method, a work support program, and a server device that can reduce an increase in the mental burden of a worker due to the presentation of work conditions and improve the mental state of the worker.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] As a result of various studies, the inventors have found that the above objective can be achieved by the present invention as described below. That is, a work support system according to one aspect of the present invention is a system for presenting work conditions to a worker performing a predetermined task, comprising: an acquisition unit for acquiring the psychological state of the worker; an adjustment unit for adjusting the work conditions of the task based on the psychological state acquired by the acquisition unit; and a presentation unit for presenting the work conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit to the worker.

[0007] Such work support systems adjust and present work conditions based on the worker's psychological state, thereby reducing the psychological burden on the worker caused by the presentation of work conditions and improving the worker's psychological state.

[0008] In another embodiment, in the work support system described above, the work conditions include conditions relating to the productivity of the work, and the adjustment unit adjusts the productivity in the work conditions to mitigate or enhance the productivity required before adjustment in the work conditions in order to reduce the increase in the psychological burden on the worker.

[0009] Such work support systems adjust productivity to mitigate or enhance productivity before adjustment, thereby reducing the increased psychological burden on workers caused by productivity reports and improving their psychological state.

[0010] In another embodiment, in the above-described work support systems, the work conditions include conditions relating to instructions given to the worker, and the adjustment unit adjusts the content or extent of the instructions in the work conditions to mitigate or strengthen the content or extent of the instructions in the work conditions before adjustment in order to reduce the increase in the psychological burden on the worker.

[0011] Such work support systems adjust the content or degree of instructions to mitigate or strengthen the content or degree of the instructions before adjustment, thereby reducing the increase in the psychological burden on workers caused by the presentation of instructions and improving the workers' psychological state.

[0012] In another embodiment, in the above-described work support system, the adjustment unit determines the psychological state of a sub-target as the psychological state of a predetermined time elapsed from the present time, based on the correspondence between the elapsed time and the psychological state, which gradually approaches the target psychological state over time, readjusts the adjusted work conditions based on the determined sub-target psychological state, and the presentation unit presents the work conditions readjusted by the adjustment unit to the worker.

[0013] When work conditions are adjusted to achieve a target psychological state, a large gap may arise between the current conditions and the adjusted conditions. As a result, the psychological burden on the worker may actually increase due to the presentation of the adjusted work conditions. The above work support system readjusts and presents the adjusted work conditions based on the psychological state of the sub-target, thus guiding the worker to the target psychological state while reducing the increase in the worker's psychological burden.

[0014] In another embodiment, in these work support systems described above, the work is work performed by the worker using a work machine.

[0015] According to this, a work support system can be provided in which the aforementioned work is performed by the worker using a work machine.

[0016] Another aspect of the present invention is a server device that presents work conditions to an operator performing a predetermined task, comprising: an acquisition unit that acquires the operator's psychological state; an adjustment unit that adjusts the work conditions for the task based on the psychological state acquired by the acquisition unit; and a control processing unit that causes a presentation unit that presents the work conditions to the operator to present the work conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit.

[0017] Such server devices adjust and present work conditions based on the worker's psychological state, thereby reducing the psychological burden on the worker caused by the presentation of work conditions and improving the worker's psychological state.

[0018] Another aspect of the work support method according to the present invention is a method for presenting work conditions to a worker who performs a predetermined work, including an acquisition step of acquiring the mental state of the worker, an adjustment step of adjusting the work conditions of the work based on the mental state acquired in the acquisition step, and a presentation step of presenting the work conditions adjusted in the adjustment step to the worker.

[0019] Such a work support method adjusts and presents the work conditions based on the mental state, so it can reduce the increase in the mental burden of the worker caused by the presentation of the work conditions and improve the mental state of the worker.

[0020] Another aspect of the work support program according to the present invention is a program that causes a computer to execute an acquisition process for acquiring the mental state of a worker who performs a predetermined work, an adjustment process for adjusting the work conditions of the work based on the mental state acquired in the acquisition process, and a presentation process for causing a presentation unit that presents the work conditions to the worker to present the work conditions adjusted in the adjustment process.

[0021] Such a work support program adjusts and presents the work conditions based on the mental state, so it can reduce the increase in the mental burden of the worker caused by the presentation of the work conditions and improve the mental state of the worker.

Advantages of the Invention

[0022] The work support system, work support method, work support program, and server device according to the present invention can reduce the increase in the mental burden of the worker caused by the presentation of the work conditions.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0023] [Figure 1] It is a block diagram showing the configuration of the work support system in the embodiment. [Figure 2] As an example, it is a diagram showing a display screen displayed on the communication terminal device in the work support system. [Figure 3] As an example, it is a diagram showing a work condition information table. [Figure 4] As an example, it is a diagram showing an adjustment display screen displaying working conditions. [Figure 5] As an example, it is a diagram for explaining the relationship between the value of the current mental state of an operator and the target value. [Figure 6] As an example, it is a diagram for explaining the readjustment of working conditions. [Figure 7] As an example, it is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the elapsed time and the mental state in the first aspect. [Figure 8] As an example, it is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the elapsed time and the mental state in the second aspect. [Figure 9] As an example, it is a diagram for explaining the correspondence between the elapsed time and the mental state in the third aspect. [Figure 10] As an example, it is a diagram showing a look-up table used in readjustment. [Figure 11] It is a flowchart showing the operation of the work support system.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0024] Hereinafter, one or more embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. However, the scope of the invention is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. In each figure, components denoted by the same reference numerals are the same components, and the description thereof will be omitted as appropriate. In this specification, when referring generically, reference numerals without subscripts are used, and when referring to individual components, reference numerals with subscripts are used.

[0025] The work support system in this embodiment is a system that presents work conditions to a worker performing a predetermined task. This work support system comprises an acquisition unit, an adjustment unit, and a presentation unit. The acquisition unit acquires the psychological state of the worker. The adjustment unit adjusts the work conditions for the task based on the psychological state acquired by the acquisition unit. The presentation unit presents the work conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit to the worker. The following describes in more detail such a work support system, the work support method and work support program implemented therein, and the server device.

[0026] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a work support system in an embodiment. Figure 2 is a diagram showing a display screen displayed on a communication terminal device in the work support system as an example. Figures 2A and 2E show a display screen showing the current psychological state (psychological state display screen) as an example, Figure 2B shows a display screen for selecting psychological state items (selection display screen), Figure 2C shows a display screen showing the target value of the psychological state for the selected item (target display screen), and Figure 2D shows a display screen for setting the target value of the psychological state (target execution screen SCd). Figure 3 is a diagram showing a work condition information table as an example. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an adjustment display screen showing work conditions as an example.

[0027] The work support system 1000 in this embodiment is a system that presents work conditions to an operator performing a predetermined task using, for example, a work machine, and comprises, for example, a server device SV, a communication network NW, and a communication terminal device TA, as shown in Figure 1. The work machine is, for example, a hydraulic excavator, a crane, and a wheel roller, a machine operated by an operator to perform a predetermined task.

[0028] A communication network NW is a transmission path such as a telephone network, a digital communication network, or a wireless communication network, and data is transmitted using a predetermined communication protocol. The communication network NW may be a WAN (Wide Area Network) or a LAN (Local Area Network).

[0029] The communication terminal device TA is a device equipped with a communication function that enables communication with the server device SV via a communication network NW, an acquisition function that acquires the psychological state of the operator of the work machine, and a presentation function that presents the work conditions to the operator. Examples include a notebook or tablet computer with communication capabilities, or a so-called smartphone. The communication terminal device TA is, for example, carried by the operator. Alternatively, for example, the communication terminal device TA is incorporated (implemented, mounted) into the work machine in a way that makes it visible and operable to the operator.

[0030] Psychological state is represented, for example, by the degree of each of several pre-defined items. In this embodiment, for example, psychological state is represented by the degree of calmness, concentration, motivation, solidarity, and achievement. Note that the items representing psychological state are not limited to these and may be other items. Psychological state is represented numerically, for example, by a Likert scale of 0-100[%] or a 5-point scale for each item, and is obtained by inputting the worker's self-reported (questionnaire) answers for each item into the communication terminal device TA.

[0031] Alternatively, for example, the psychological state may be measured and acquired using a psychological state sensor SN that measures predetermined items in the psychological state, such as calmness and concentration, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 1. Known and common methods such as a heart rate monitor or blood pressure monitor to measure calmness (anxiety) and an electroencephalograph to measure concentration can be used for the psychological state sensor SN. The psychological state sensor SN is connected to a communication terminal device TA and outputs the acquired results to the communication terminal device TA. The communication terminal device TA acquires the worker's psychological state via the psychological state sensor SN.

[0032] Alternatively, for example, the psychological state may be estimated by a communication terminal device (TA) based on the operator's operation of the work machine. The psychological state is estimated from the operation of the work machine, based on the correspondence between the operation of the work machine and the degree of each item of the psychological state, which is created in advance, for example, as shown in Table 1, and the degree of each item of the psychological state is estimated from the operation of the work machine according to Table 1. For example, motivation is estimated based on the length of idle time (the time from the end of the previous operation to the start of the current operation). An operation status detection sensor that detects the operator's operation status of the work machine is connected to a communication terminal device (TA), and the idle time is divided into three categories: Low (short), MID (medium), and High (long) according to predetermined thresholds (classification thresholds). If the idle time detected by the operation status detection sensor is Low, motivation is estimated to be high (e.g., 100% or 5 on a 5-point scale). If the idle time detected by the operation status detection sensor is MID, motivation is estimated to be moderate (e.g., 50% or 3 on a 5-point scale). If the idle time detected by the operation status detection sensor is High, motivation is estimated to be low (e.g., 0% or 1 on a 5-point scale).

[0033] [Table 1]

[0034] Here, a sudden operation refers to an operation in which the change in the amount of operation per unit time, which is set in advance, exceeds a threshold (sudden operation judgment threshold), and the frequency of sudden operations refers to the number of sudden operations per unit time, with a predetermined time set in advance as the unit time. The degree of anxiety (calmness) is estimated based on the frequency of sudden operations. Stopping accuracy is higher when the amount of corrective operations (for example, reverse operation due to overshooting) required to stop the work attachment position is small. The degree of concentration is estimated based on the stopping accuracy. The degree of concentration is estimated based on the continuous operation time. The degree of concentration and the degree of loneliness (sense of solidarity) are estimated based on the wireless response time. Each of these estimations uses a pre-set correspondence. For example, to estimate the degree of anxiety, a correspondence between the frequency of sudden operations and the degree of anxiety is set in advance and used.

[0035] The communication terminal device TA displays the acquired psychological state, displays the work conditions for the task, accepts the selection of an item for which a target value is to be set from among multiple items in the psychological state, and accepts the setting of the target value for the accepted item. The acquired psychological state and work conditions are displayed on the communication terminal device TA, for example, on the display screen shown in Figure 2. The display screens shown in Figures 2A and 2E are psychological state display screens SCa that display the current psychological state, the display screen shown in Figure 2B is a selection display screen SCb for accepting the selection of one or more items from among multiple items in the psychological state, the display screen shown in Figure 2C is a target display screen SCc for accepting the setting of a target value for the psychological state for the selected item, and Figure 2D is a target execution screen SCd for executing the setting of the target value for the psychological state for the selected item, which was accepted on the display screen shown in Figure 2C.

[0036] These psychological state display screen SCa, selection display screen SCb, goal display screen SCc, and goal execution screen SCd each include a radar chart display area 201 that displays the acquired psychological state in a radar chart, and a work conditions display area 202 that displays work conditions, buttons, etc. In the example shown in Figure 2, the radar chart display area 201 and the work conditions display area 202 are displayed side by side in the vertical direction, but they may be displayed side by side in the horizontal direction, for example, or they may be displayed in different windows. In this embodiment, the radar chart is a graph that includes hidden numerical axes arranged to radiate from the center of the radar chart to correspond to each item of calmness, concentration, motivation, solidarity, and achievement, and the values ​​of calmness, concentration, motivation, solidarity, and achievement in the acquired psychological state are plotted on each numerical axis corresponding to each item, and the plotted positions on the numerical axes and the positions plotted on adjacent numerical axes are sequentially connected by line segments to form a polygon 205. The magnitude of each value at the center of the radar chart is zero, and the further away from the center of the radar chart you are from the center, the larger each value is. Values ​​are plotted on each numerical axis at equal intervals from the center of the radar chart, and the positions of the plotted values ​​are sequentially connected by line segments to the positions of the plotted values ​​on the adjacent numerical axis, thereby forming multiple regular polygonal grid lines 206. In this embodiment, five grid lines 206 forming regular polygons are arranged. A numerical value indicating that the magnitude of the value at the center of the radar chart is 0[%], and numerical values ​​indicating that the magnitude of each of the five polygons 205 is 20[%], 40[%], 60[%], 80[%], and 100[%], respectively, starting from the innermost polygon 205, are arranged.

[0037] In the selection display screen SCb, the item display areas 2011-1 to 2011-5, which are located in the direction of extension of each numerical axis and display the items of composure, concentration, motivation, solidarity, and achievement in the radar chart shown in the radar chart display area 201, are input buttons that accept the selection of items for which target values ​​are set.

[0038] In the example shown in Figure 2A, an item indicating that the psychological state adjustment mode is active is displayed in the work conditions display area 202 of the target display screen SCc. When the screen of the communication terminal device TA is tapped or a button on the communication terminal device TA is operated, the communication terminal device TA displays a screen as shown in Figure 2B.

[0039] When the communication terminal device (TA) displays a screen as shown in Figure 2B, inputting information into item display areas 2011-1 to 2011-5 allows the items whose names are displayed in the selected item display areas 2011-1 to 2011-5 to be selected as items for which a target value is to be set. If the communication terminal device (TA) is a node-type computer, this input operation is performed by placing the cursor over item display areas 2011-1 to 2011-5 and pressing the return key. If the communication terminal device (TA) is a tablet computer or smartphone, this operation is performed by touching item display areas 2011-1 to 2011-5 with, for example, a finger or stylus. In the example shown in Figure 2B, item display area 2011-1 for "calmness" is selected. Note that if multiple items are selected, multiple item display areas 2011-1 to 2011-5 will be selected. The display area 202 of the SCb display screen shows a confirmation button 2021 to confirm the selection of an item and a cancel button 2022 to cancel the selection of an item. When the confirmation button 2021 is pressed, the item selected in the input operation of the item display area 2011-1 to 2011-5 is confirmed and input to the communication terminal device TA. When the cancel button 2022 is pressed, the selection of the item is canceled and the device becomes capable of accepting item selections. If the cancel button 2022 is pressed and held, the display on the communication terminal device TA returns to the example shown in Figure 2A.

[0040] When the communication terminal device TA displays a screen as shown in Figure 2B, the radar chart display area 201 on the target display screen SCc transitions to a screen as shown in Figure 2C when the OK button 2021 is pressed, and functions to accept the setting of target values. The target value is set by inputting the position of the polygon 205 plotted on the numerical axis for the selected item to set a target value, so that it corresponds to the target value. For example, the target value for each item is set by shifting the position of the polygon 205 plotted on the numerical axis through input operations such as swiping, thereby increasing or decreasing the value.

[0041] In the example shown in Figure 2C, the work conditions display area 202 of the target display screen SCc displays a cancel button 2024 for canceling the setting of the target value and an execute button 2023 for starting the adjustment of the work conditions based on the setting of the target value. When the cancel button 2023 is pressed, the setting of the target value is canceled, the display of the communication terminal device TA returns to Figure 2B, and it becomes possible to accept setting of the target value. When the communication terminal device TA is displaying the screen as shown in Figure 2C, pressing the execute button 2023 starts the adjustment of the work conditions as shown on the target display screen SCd. When the adjustment of work conditions starts, the communication terminal device TA displays the words "Adjusting" and a cancel button 2025 for canceling the adjustment in the work conditions display area 202 of the target display screen SCd as shown in Figure 2D. When the cancel button 2025 is pressed, the adjustment of the psychological state is canceled, and it transitions to the state before the start of the adjustment mode as shown in Figure 2A. Once the adjustment of working conditions has started and a predetermined time has elapsed, the adjustment of working conditions is completed, and the communication terminal device TA displays Figure 2E. In the example shown in Figure 2E, when the adjustment of working conditions is completed, the words "Adjustment Complete" may be displayed in the working conditions display area 202 of the target display screen SCc. In the example shown in Figure 2E, by tapping the screen of the communication terminal device TA or operating a button on the communication terminal device TA, it is possible to display the screen shown in Figure 2B on the communication terminal device TA, and further adjustment of working conditions is possible.

[0042] In the examples shown in Figures 2C and 2D, a target value for calmness is set, and this target value is connected to the value of sense of accomplishment in the acquired psychological state by a dashed line, and the target value is also connected to the value of concentration in the acquired psychological state by a dashed line. If multiple items are selected, a target value is set for each item.

[0043] The communication terminal device TA transitions between the psychological state display screen SCa, the selection display screen SCb, and the target display screen SCc in response to input operations.

[0044] The communication terminal device TA transmits psychological state information representing the acquired psychological state (in the above example, values ​​for calmness, concentration, motivation, sense of solidarity, and achievement), target item information representing the items for which target values ​​are set, and target value information representing those target values ​​to the server device SV via the communication network NW.

[0045] The server device SV is connected to the communication terminal device TA via a communication network NW and is a device that adjusts the working conditions of a task based on the psychological state of the worker. For example, as shown in Figure 1, it comprises a control processing unit 1, a storage unit 2, and a communication unit 3.

[0046] The communication unit 3 is connected to the control processing unit 1 and is connected to the communication network NW in a communication-enabled manner. The communication unit 3 generates a communication signal containing the data to be transmitted (transferred) input from the control processing unit 1, in accordance with the communication protocol used in the communication network NW, and transmits this generated communication signal to the communication terminal device TA via the communication network NW. The communication unit 3 receives the communication signal from the communication terminal device TA via the communication network NW, extracts data from the received communication signal, converts this extracted data into a format that the control processing unit 1 can process, and outputs it to the control processing unit 1. The communication unit 3 is, for example, a data communication card or a communication interface circuit that transmits and receives communication signals with external devices, such as a communication interface circuit that conforms to the IEEE 802.11 standard.

[0047] The memory unit 2 is connected to the control processing unit 1 and is a circuit that stores various predetermined programs and various predetermined data in accordance with the control of the control processing unit 1.

[0048] The various predetermined programs mentioned above include, for example, a control processing program, which includes, for example, a control program and an adjustment program. The control program controls each part 2 and 3 of the server device SV according to the function of each part. The adjustment program is a program that adjusts the working conditions of the work based on the psychological state acquired by the communication terminal device TA.

[0049] The aforementioned various predetermined data include, for example, data necessary for executing each of these programs, such as working conditions, constraints, calculation results during information processing, and the final calculation results. Such a storage unit 2 includes, for example, a non-volatile memory element such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or a rewritable non-volatile memory element such as EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory). Furthermore, the storage unit 2 includes RAM (Random Access Memory), which serves as the working memory of the control processing unit 1, storing data generated during the execution of the predetermined programs. The storage unit 2 may also be configured to include a hard disk drive or solid-state drive (SSD) with a relatively large storage capacity.

[0050] The work conditions are predetermined conditions imposed on the worker when performing the work, the work environment surrounding the worker, and the relationship with other workers. These are pre-set for each psychological state item and stored in the storage unit 2 in table format. Preferably, the work conditions include numerical values ​​or degrees that define the work conditions in order to make them adjustable, and preferably include multiple types. The work condition information table WT for registering the work conditions includes, for example, a psychological state item field 101 for registering psychological state items by item name, and a work condition field 102 for registering the work conditions for the items with the item names registered in the psychological state item field 101, and has a record for each psychological state item. In the example shown in Figure 3, the work conditions corresponding to calmness are those that promote calmness (increase calmness), and more specifically, these include "increasing the frequency of communication (conversation) by a predetermined value X11 [%]", "decreasing the pace of work by a predetermined value X12 [%] (reducing productivity by a predetermined value X12 [%])", and "increasing worker support (assistance, help) by a predetermined value X13 [people]". The work conditions corresponding to concentration are those that increase a low level of concentration, and more specifically, these include "limiting work to a specific type of work X21", and "decreasing the frequency of conversation (communication) by a predetermined value X22 [%]". The work conditions corresponding to motivation are those that motivate (increase motivation), and more specifically, these include "changing the type of work to a predetermined type X31", and "praising to a predetermined degree X32 (for example, praising greatly, moderately, or lightly)". Work conditions corresponding to the level of concentration may include conditions to reduce excessively high levels of concentration, more specifically, such as "removing restrictions on specific types of work X21" or "increasing the frequency of conversation (communication) by a predetermined value X23 [%]." Work conditions corresponding to a low level of solidarity with surrounding workers are conditions to increase solidarity, more specifically, such as "increasing the frequency of communication (communication) by a predetermined value X41 [%]," "increasing worker support (assistance, help) by a predetermined value X42 [people]," or "providing feedback on the situation, progress, etc. (increasing the frequency of feedback by a predetermined value X43)."The work conditions corresponding to a sense of solidarity are those that increase the sense of solidarity with surrounding workers, which is currently low. More specifically, these include "increasing the frequency of communication (conversation) by a predetermined value x 41 [%]", "increasing worker support (assistance, help) by a predetermined value x 42 [people]", and "providing feedback on the situation, progress, etc. (increasing the frequency of feedback by a predetermined value x 43)". The work conditions corresponding to a sense of accomplishment are those that increase the sense of accomplishment. More specifically, these include "providing feedback on the progress of other workers (increasing the frequency of feedback by a predetermined value x 51)", "praising workers to a predetermined degree x 52 upon completion of a task", and "changing tasks to a predetermined amount x 53 that can be completed within the day".

[0051] Constraints are conditions that define the range of adjustments that can be made (adjustable range) when adjusting working conditions. For example, if the constraint is the number of workers who can be supported, and the goal is to increase solidarity by increasing worker support, then the number of workers who can be supported becomes the upper limit, and the working conditions cannot be adjusted to support more workers than this upper limit. Alternatively, for example, if the constraint is the type of weather, such as thunderstorms or strong winds, and the goal is to motivate workers by changing the type of work, then the working conditions cannot be adjusted to change to a type of work that cannot be done depending on the type of weather. For example, in the event of rain, slope formation work cannot be performed, and the work cannot be changed to slope formation work. Alternatively, for example, if the constraint is the progress rate, and the goal is to calm down the workers by slowing down the pace of work (reducing productivity), then a lower limit for the pace of work is defined based on the current progress rate, and the working conditions cannot be adjusted to slow down the pace of work below this lower limit. Alternatively, if the current progress rate is more than a certain amount behind the progress rate planned in the work plan, the pace of work cannot be slowed down. Alternatively, for example, if the constraint is the number of transport vehicles such as dump trucks, and the work is to be stabilized by slowing down the pace of work (reducing productivity), then the lower limit of the work pace is determined based on the number of transport vehicles, and the work conditions cannot be adjusted to slow down the work pace below that lower limit.

[0052] The control processing unit 1 is a circuit that controls each part 2 and 3 of the server device SV in the work support system 1000 according to the function of each part, and adjusts the working conditions of the work based on the psychological state acquired by the communication terminal device TA. The control processing unit 1 is configured, for example, with a CPU (Central Processing Unit) and its peripheral circuits. The control processing program is executed within the control processing unit 1, thereby functionally configuring the control unit 11 and the adjustment unit 12.

[0053] The control unit 11 controls each part 2 and 3 of the server device SV in the work support system 1000 according to the function of each part, and is in charge of the overall control of the server device SV. By controlling the communication unit 3, the control unit 11 receives a communication signal (psychological state notification signal) containing psychological state information representing the psychological state acquired by the communication terminal device TA, target item information representing the items for which target values ​​are set, and target value information representing the target values, etc., from the communication terminal device TA via the communication network NW. In order to present the work conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit 12 as described later to the worker via the communication terminal device TA, the control unit 11 generates a communication signal (work condition notification signal) containing work condition information representing the work conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit 12, etc., and by controlling the communication unit 3, transmits the generated work condition notification signal to the communication terminal device TA via the communication network NW.

[0054] The adjustment unit 12 adjusts the working conditions of the work based on the psychological state acquired by the communication terminal device TA. The working conditions include conditions relating to the productivity of the work, and the adjustment unit 12 adjusts the productivity in the working conditions so as to alleviate or strengthen the productivity required before adjustment in order to reduce the increase in the psychological burden on the worker. The working conditions also include conditions relating to instructions given to the worker, and the adjustment unit 12 adjusts the content or degree of the instructions in the working conditions so as to alleviate or strengthen the content or degree of the instructions before adjustment in order to reduce the increase in the psychological burden on the worker. An example of instructions is communication (conversation). The instructions include, for example, guidance on work procedures, instructions on precautions for work, instructions on points to note for work, instructions on how to operate work machinery, and the progress of work, and are information that the worker should be aware of (know) when performing the work, and working conditions that are presented to the worker. By reducing the frequency of the communication, the content or degree of the instructions is adjusted.

[0055] More specifically, the adjustment unit 12 adjusts the work conditions by determining the numerical values, degree, and type of work conditions based on the difference between the current psychological state acquired by the communication terminal device TA and its target value. For example, when calming down by slowing down the pace of work (reducing productivity), if the current calmness level is 40 and the target value is 100, the difference is 60 and the work pace is reduced by 50%. On the other hand, if the current calmness level is 40 and the target value is 80, the difference is 40 and the work pace is reduced by 20%. Alternatively, for example, when increasing concentration by reducing the frequency of communication, if the current concentration level is 40 and the target value is 100, the difference is 60 and the frequency of communication is reduced by 60%. On the other hand, if the current concentration level is 40 and the target value is 80, the difference is 40 and the frequency of communication is reduced by 30%. The correspondence between the difference and the numerical values, degree, and type of work conditions is set appropriately in advance. Furthermore, multiple work conditions may be adjusted for a single item related to psychological state.

[0056] When the working conditions are adjusted in the adjustment unit 12, as described above, the control unit 11 generates the working condition notification signal in order to present the working conditions adjusted in the adjustment unit 12 to the worker via the communication terminal device TA, and transmits this generated working condition notification signal to the communication terminal device TA via the communication network NW using the communication unit 3.

[0057] When the communication terminal device TA receives the work condition notification signal, it extracts work condition information from the received work condition notification signal, displays the work conditions represented by the work condition information, and presents the work conditions to the worker. An example is shown in Figure 4. In the example shown in Figure 4, in order to raise the concentration level to the target value of 100, the work condition display area 202 displays "Communication will decrease by 60%" and "Required work accuracy will increase by 30%".

[0058] Here, as described above, the work conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit 12 may be presented to the communication terminal device TA. However, for example, as shown in Figure 5, if the work conditions are adjusted to achieve the target psychological state, the discrepancy (gap) between the current and adjusted work conditions may become large. As a result, the psychological burden on the worker may increase due to the presentation of the adjusted work conditions. Therefore, in this embodiment, the adjustment unit 12 determines the psychological state at a predetermined time after the current point in time has elapsed, based on the correspondence between the elapsed time and the psychological state, which gradually approaches the target psychological state over time, as the psychological state of the sub-target. Based on the determined psychological state of the sub-target, the adjustment unit 12 readjusts the work conditions, and the communication terminal device TA presents the work conditions readjusted by the adjustment unit 12 to the worker.

[0059] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating, as an example, the relationship between the current psychological state of a worker and the target value. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating, as an example, the readjustment of working conditions. Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating, as an example, the correspondence between elapsed time and psychological state in the first mode. Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating, as an example, the correspondence between elapsed time and psychological state in the second mode. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating, as an example, the correspondence between elapsed time and psychological state in the third mode. In Figures 5 to 9, each horizontal axis represents time, and each vertical axis represents psychological state. Graph α is the target value of psychological state, graph β is the psychological state of the worker, and graph γ is the correspondence between elapsed time and psychological state as time progresses and the target psychological state is gradually approached. Time point t0 is the present time, and time point t1 is a predetermined time after the present time. Psychological state y0 is the psychological state of the worker at the present time t0, and ya is the target value of the psychological state. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating, as an example, a lookup table used for readjustment.

[0060] More specifically, the adjustment unit 12 first determines the psychological state ym at time t1, which is a predetermined time elapsed from the current time t0, as the sub-target psychological state (sub-target value) based on the correspondence γ between the elapsed time and the psychological state, which gradually approaches the target psychological state ya over time.

[0061] The aforementioned correspondence relationship γ is set in advance as appropriate. For example, the following first to third correspondence relationships γ1 to γ3 are used as the aforementioned correspondence relationship γ.

[0062] The correspondence γ1 in this first aspect is, for example, the transfer function K / (1+sT) of a first-order lag system, as shown in Figure 7 (γ1(s)=K / (1+Ts)). Here, K is the gain, T is the time constant, and s is the Laplace operator. The correspondence γ1 in the first aspect can be expressed in the time domain as y(t)=(K / T)×e (-t / T) This is the result. Here, e is Napier's constant.

[0063] The correspondence γ2 in the second aspect is, for example, a relationship based on the so-called Weber law (Weber-Fechner law), as shown in Figure 8. According to this Weber law, the ratio △C / C between the current psychological state C and the change in psychological state △C is considered constant (△C / C = constant value).

[0064] The correspondence γ3 in the third aspect is, for example, a so-called ramp function, as shown in Figure 9. If ts is the time from the current time t0 until the target value is reached, then y(t) = y0 + ((ya-y0) / (ts-t0)) × t. The time ts is set appropriately in advance.

[0065] Next, the adjustment unit 12 readjusts the adjusted work conditions based on the psychological state ym of the sub-target obtained. For example, in the above example, when calming down by slowing down the pace of work (reducing productivity), if the current calmness (at present time T0) is 40 and the target value is 100, the difference is 60 and the pace of work is reduced by 50%. However, if the sub-target value ym is 55, and the current calmness (at present time T0) is 40 and the sub-target value is 55, the difference is 15 and the pace of work is reduced by 10% and the work conditions are readjusted. The correspondence between the difference and the numerical value, degree, and type of work conditions during this readjustment is set in advance as appropriate. For example, a lookup table like the one shown in Figure 10 is prepared in advance and stored in the storage unit 2. Alternatively, for example, the current workload (required productivity) is added or subtracted at the rate shown in Figure 10 based on the difference between the current value and the sub-target value. For example, if the difference (= sub-target value - current value) is 11 and the required output is 5, the revised required productivity is calculated as 5 × (1 - 0.1) = 4.5. If the difference is -6 and the required output is 4, the revised required productivity is calculated as 4 × (1 + 0.03) = 4.12. In this way, the required productivity is successively revised. Alternatively, for example, the readjustment working conditions can be determined by feedback control, such as in PID control, based on the difference △y between the psychological state y0 at the current time t0 and the sub-target value ym. For example, if you want to slow down the pace of work by a predetermined value X12[%] (by reducing productivity by a predetermined value X12[%]), the predetermined value X12 can be found by X12 = Kp × △y(t) + Ki × ∫y(τ)dτ + Kd(d△y(t) / dt). Here, Kp is the proportional gain, Ki is the integral gain, Kd is the differential gain, and the integral ∫ is the integral from 0 to t.

[0066] Then, when the working conditions are readjusted in the adjustment unit 12, the control unit 11, instead of generating a working condition communication signal containing working condition information etc. representing the working conditions adjusted in the adjustment unit 12 as described above, generates a working condition communication signal containing working condition information etc. representing the working conditions readjusted in the adjustment unit 12, in order to present the working conditions readjusted in the adjustment unit 12 to the worker via the communication terminal device TA, and transmits this generated working condition notification signal to the communication terminal device TA via the communication network NW using the communication unit 3.

[0067] When the communication terminal device TA receives the work condition notification signal, it extracts the work condition information from the received work condition notification signal, displays the work conditions (re-adjusted work conditions) represented by the work condition information, and presents the work conditions to the worker.

[0068] Furthermore, the server device SV may also include an input unit 4 connected to the control processing unit 1 for inputting various commands and data, an output unit 5 connected to the control processing unit 1 for outputting commands, data, and calculation results from the input unit 4 in accordance with the control of the control processing unit 1, and an interface unit (IF unit) 6 connected to the control processing unit 1 for inputting and outputting data to and from external devices in accordance with the control of the control processing unit 1, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 1.

[0069] The server device SV in this embodiment can be configured by, for example, a desktop computer or a tower computer.

[0070] Furthermore, although the readjustment of working conditions was performed on the server device SV as described above, it may also be performed on the communication terminal device TA.

[0071] Furthermore, although the work support system 1000 was configured with a server device SV and a communication terminal device TA as described above, the work support system 1000 may be configured by connecting an input / output terminal device for inputting and outputting data, one or more arithmetic processing units (e.g., a server device) for performing various calculations, and one or more database devices for storing (managing) various data in a manner that allows them to communicate with each other. At least some of these input / output terminal devices, one or more arithmetic processing units, and one or more database devices may be configured as a single unit and connected in a manner that allows them to communicate with each other, and the entire system may be an integrated work support device.

[0072] Furthermore, as described above, the communication terminal device TA accepts the selection of an item for which a target value is to be set from among multiple items of psychological state and accepts the setting of the target value for the accepted item. However, an input / output terminal device separate from the communication terminal device TA may accept the selection of an item for which a target value is to be set and accept the setting of the target value for the accepted item. In this case, the communication terminal device TA acquires the psychological state of the operator of the work machine, generates a communication signal (psychological state notification signal) containing the psychological state information representing the acquired psychological state of the operator and transmits it to the server device SV, and the input / output terminal device generates a communication signal (target notification signal) containing target item information representing the item for which a target value is to be set and target value information representing the target value and transmits it to the server device SV. By providing an input / output terminal device separate from the communication terminal device TA, the work support system 1000 allows, for example, a site manager or other supervisor managing a construction site to set an item for which a target value is to be set and its target value. Alternatively, the server device SV may accept the selection of an item for which a target value is to be set and accept the setting of the target value for the accepted item. In this case, the communication terminal device TA acquires the psychological state of the operator of the work machine, generates a psychological state notification signal, and transmits it to the server device SV. If a psychological state sensor SN is available, the psychological state sensor SN may directly transmit the operator's psychological state to the server device SV instead of the communication terminal device TA. In this case as well, the administrator can set the items for which target values ​​are set, and set those target values.

[0073] Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described. Figure 11 is a flowchart showing the operation of the work support system.

[0074] When the server device SV with this configuration is powered on, it performs the initialization of each necessary part and starts operating. The control processing unit 1 is functionally configured with the control unit 11 and the adjustment unit 12 by the execution of its control processing program. The communication terminal device TA is pre-installed with application software that implements an acquisition function to acquire the psychological state of the operator of the work machine, an adjustment function to adjust the working conditions of the work based on the psychological state acquired by the acquisition function, and a presentation function to present the working conditions of the work to the operator.

[0075] In Figure 11, first, the communication terminal device TA acquires the psychological state of the operator of the work machine and displays a polygon 205 corresponding to the acquired psychological state of the operator, along with five scale lines 206 and the names of each item in the display areas 2011-1 to 2011-5. In this state, the TA accepts an input operation for an item from among the item display areas 2011-1 to 2011-5 for which a target value is to be set. The TA recognizes that the item name displayed in the item display area for which the input operation was accepted has been selected as the psychological state item for which a target value is to be set (S1).

[0076] Next, the communication terminal device TA recognizes the setting of the target value for the psychological state by receiving an input operation to set the plotted position of the polygon 205 on the numerical axis corresponding to the psychological state item selected in process S1 to the position corresponding to the target value (S2).

[0077] Next, the communication terminal device TA generates a psychological state notification signal that includes the psychological state of the operator of the work machine acquired in process S1, the psychological state items recognized in process S1, and the target value of the psychological state recognized in process S2. The TA then transmits this generated psychological state notification signal to the server device SV via the communication network NW, causing the server device SV to acquire the psychological state notification signal (S3).

[0078] Next, when the server device SV receives the psychological state notification signal via the communication unit 3, the control unit 11 of the control processing unit 1 extracts psychological state information, which is the worker's psychological state, target item information, which is an item of the worker's psychological state, and target value information, which is the target value of the worker's psychological state, from the received psychological state notification signal. The adjustment unit 12 of the control processing unit 1 then determines whether the psychological state of an item for which a target value has been set is less than the target value (S4). If the result of this determination is that the psychological state is not less than the target value (No) (i.e., the psychological state is equal to or greater than the target value), the server device SV terminates this process. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that the psychological state is less than the target value (Yes), the server device SV then executes process S5.

[0079] In this process S5, the server device SV adjusts the working conditions of the task based on the psychological state of the item for which a target value has been set, using the adjustment unit 12.

[0080] Next, the server device SV uses the adjustment unit 12 to determine whether or not there are any constraint conditions (S6). If the result of this determination is that there are constraint conditions (No), the server device SV then executes process S7 and then process S8. On the other hand, if the result of the determination is that there are no constraint conditions (Yes), the server device SV then executes process S8.

[0081] In this process S7, the server device SV modifies the working conditions adjusted in process S5 using the adjustment unit 12 to satisfy the constraints. That is, the adjustment unit 12 modifies the working conditions adjusted in process S5 so that they fall within the adjustable range of the constraints.

[0082] In the process S8 described above, the server device SV readjusts the adjusted working conditions using the adjustment unit 12.

[0083] Next, the server device SV generates work condition information representing the work conditions after readjustment using the adjustment unit 12, and the control unit 11 generates a work condition notification signal containing the work condition information and transmits it to the communication terminal device TA via the communication unit 3 (S9).

[0084] Then, upon receiving a work condition notification signal, the communication terminal device TA extracts work condition information from the received work condition notification signal, displays the work conditions represented by this extracted work condition information and presents them to the worker (S10), and then terminates this process.

[0085] Each of these processes S1 through S10 is repeatedly executed at predetermined intervals. In this case, processes S2 and S3 may be omitted, and the initial items with set target values ​​and those target values ​​are maintained.

[0086] As described above, the work support system 1000 in the embodiment, as well as the work support method and work support program implemented therein, adjust and present the work conditions based on the worker's psychological state. This reduces the increase in the worker's psychological burden caused by the presentation of work conditions and improves the worker's psychological state. For example, it can suppress a decline in positive emotions such as the worker's motivation for work.

[0087] The above-described work support system 1000, work support method, and work support program adjust productivity to mitigate or enhance the productivity required before adjustment in the work conditions in order to reduce the increase in the psychological burden on the worker. For example, this reduces the increase in the psychological burden on the worker due to the presentation of excessive productivity, or the deterioration of the worker's psychological state due to the presentation of insufficient productivity, thereby improving the worker's psychological state.

[0088] The above-described work support system 1000, work support method, and work support program adjust the content or degree of instruction to mitigate or strengthen the content or degree of instruction before adjustment in order to reduce the increase in the psychological burden on the worker. Thus, it is possible to reduce the increase in the psychological burden on the worker caused by presenting excessive or insufficient instruction.

[0089] The above-mentioned work support system 1000, work support method, and work support program readjust and present the adjusted work conditions based on the psychological state of the sub-objective, thereby guiding the worker to the target psychological state while reducing the increase in the worker's psychological burden, and gradually leading the worker to a state where they can perform work that is appropriate to the work conditions.

[0090] The above-described work support system 1000, work support method, and work support program present work conditions to workers who perform predetermined tasks using work machinery, but are not limited to this. They may also be configured to present work conditions to workers who perform predetermined tasks without using work machinery at construction sites or building sites. For example, at least part of tasks such as transporting materials used at construction sites or building sites, loading and unloading, demolition, laying electrical wiring, laying pipes, painting, finishing, and cleaning are performed without using work machinery, and the system may be configured to present work conditions to workers performing such tasks.

[0091] To illustrate the present invention, the embodiments have been adequately and fully described above with reference to the drawings. However, those skilled in the art should recognize that it is easy to modify and / or improve upon the embodiments described above. Therefore, unless such modifications or improvements implemented by those skilled in the art fall outside the scope of the claims, such modifications or improvements shall be considered to be included within the scope of the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0092] SV Server Equipment TA (Terminal Adapter) SN Psychological State Sensor NW (Network Communication Network) 1000 Work Support Systems 1 Control Processing Unit 2 Storage section 3 Communications Department 4 Input section 5 Output section 6. Interface Section (IF Section) 11 Control Unit 12 Adjustment section

Claims

1. A work support system that presents work conditions to workers performing a predetermined task, An acquisition unit that acquires the psychological state of the aforementioned worker, An adjustment unit adjusts the working conditions of the work based on the psychological state acquired by the acquisition unit, The system includes a display unit that presents the working conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit to the operator, Work support system.

2. The aforementioned working conditions include conditions relating to the productivity of the work, The adjustment unit adjusts the productivity under the working conditions in such a way that it reduces or enhances the productivity required before the adjustment under the working conditions in order to reduce the increase in the psychological burden on the worker. The work support system according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned working conditions include conditions relating to the instructions given to the worker, The adjustment unit adjusts the content or degree of instruction in the work conditions in order to reduce the increase in the psychological burden on the worker, by mitigating or strengthening the content or degree of instruction in the work conditions before adjustment. The work support system according to claim 1.

4. The adjustment unit determines the psychological state at a predetermined time after the current point in time has elapsed, based on the correspondence between the elapsed time and the psychological state, which gradually approaches the target psychological state over time, and readjusts the adjusted working conditions based on the determined sub-target psychological state. The display unit presents the work conditions readjusted by the adjustment unit to the operator. The work support system according to claim 1.

5. The aforementioned work is an operation performed by the worker using a work machine. A work support system according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A server device that presents work conditions to an operator performing a predetermined task, An acquisition unit that acquires the psychological state of the aforementioned worker, An adjustment unit adjusts the working conditions of the work based on the psychological state acquired by the acquisition unit, The system includes a display unit that presents working conditions to the operator, and a control processing unit that causes the display unit to present the working conditions adjusted by the adjustment unit. Server device.

7. A work support method that presents work conditions to a worker performing a prescribed task, The process of acquiring the psychological state of the aforementioned worker, An adjustment step which adjusts the working conditions of the work based on the psychological state acquired in the acquisition step, The system includes a presentation step for presenting the work conditions adjusted in the adjustment step to the worker. Work support method.

8. A process to acquire the psychological state of a worker performing a prescribed task, An adjustment process to adjust the working conditions of the work based on the psychological state acquired in the acquisition process, A presentation process that causes a presentation unit that presents the work conditions to the worker to present the work conditions adjusted in the adjustment process, A task support program that allows a computer to perform a task.

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