Warehouse operations execution device, warehouse operations execution method, and computer program for executing warehouse operations

Abstract

To achieve and maintain maximum capacity in warehouses. [Solution] The warehouse operations execution device comprises a variable information acquisition unit, a hint creation unit, and a hint output unit. The variable information acquisition unit acquires variable information including at least one of the following: work body information that identifies the location, productivity, and work suitability of a work body in real time; spatial information that identifies the utilization status of space, including aisles in the warehouse, in real time; cargo information that identifies the movement status of cargo within the warehouse in real time; work progress information that identifies the comparison between planned and actual values ​​of work in real time; know-how information that shows know-how related to warehouse operations; and inquiry information that identifies inquiries from work bodies in real time. The hint creation unit creates behavior change hints for work bodies based on pre-set variable information usage rules and variable information. The hint output unit outputs behavior change hints.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The technology disclosed in this specification relates to a warehouse operation execution apparatus, a warehouse operation execution method, and a computer program for warehouse operation execution.

Background Art

[0002] Generally, in a logistics warehouse (hereinafter simply referred to as a "warehouse"), workers perform various operations (unloading, incoming inspection, storage, picking, sorting / inspection / packaging, outgoing inspection, loading, etc.) at timings and with contents determined by themselves according to a predetermined rough operation schedule. Therefore, due to fluctuations in the amount of goods flow (incoming and outgoing amounts), etc., unnecessary waiting time and losses (waste) in equipment and space utilization often occur.

[0003] Conventionally, various technologies have been proposed to realize the efficiency improvement and optimization of operations in a warehouse. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology for generating work instruction data indicating the type of work, target articles, and schedule, arranging the work instruction data in a queue in ascending order of the scheduled work end time, and transmitting the work instruction data from the head of the queue to a worker terminal when a work end notification and a request notification for the next work instruction are received from the worker terminal.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] [[ID=,38]] In a warehouse, in addition to the aforementioned volume of goods, the positions of workers and autonomous mobile robots, productivity and work suitability, and the utilization of space including aisles within the warehouse change moment by moment. Furthermore, the progress of actual work compared to the initial work plan, know-how related to warehouse operations, and the information required by workers and autonomous mobile robots for their work are also constantly changing. With the conventional technologies described above, the acquisition and utilization of such fluctuating factors are not sufficient, making it difficult to grasp and maintain the streamlined state within the warehouse, and there is room for improvement in terms of maximizing and maintaining warehouse capacity.

[0006] This specification discloses a technology capable of solving the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The technologies disclosed herein can be implemented, for example, in the following forms:

[0008] (1) The warehouse operations execution device disclosed herein comprises a variable information acquisition unit, a hint creation unit, and a hint output unit. The variable information acquisition unit acquires variable information including at least one of the following: work body information that identifies in real time the position, productivity, and work suitability of a work body which is a worker and / or warehouse robot engaged in warehouse operations; spatial information that identifies in real time the utilization status of space including aisles in the warehouse; cargo information that identifies in real time the movement status of cargo within the warehouse; work progress information that identifies in real time the comparison between planned and actual values ​​of the work; know-how information that shows know-how related to warehouse operations; and inquiry information that identifies in real time inquiries from the work body. The hint creation unit creates behavior change hints for the work body based on a preset variable information utilization rule and the variable information. The hint output unit outputs the behavior change hints.

[0009] This warehouse operations execution device creates and outputs behavioral change hints for workers based on variable information usage rules and variable information. By utilizing these behavioral change hints, it is possible to digitize on-site capabilities, including on-site know-how and knowledge, and streamline operations, thereby enabling the maximization and maintenance of warehouse capacity.

[0010] (2) In the warehouse operations execution device described above, the behavior change hint may include the content of the variable information itself. With this configuration, by using the behavior change hint which includes the content of the variable information itself, it is possible to effectively achieve and maintain maximum capacity in the warehouse.

[0011] (3) In the warehouse operations execution device described above, the variable information may include the work progress information. With this configuration, the maximum capacity of the warehouse can be effectively achieved and maintained by utilizing the behavior change hints created based on the work progress information.

[0012] (4) In the warehouse operations execution device described above, the work progress information may include information showing the difference between the planned value and the actual value. With this configuration, the maximum capacity of the warehouse can be effectively achieved and maintained by using behavior change hints created based on the difference between the planned value and the actual value.

[0013] (5) In the warehouse operations execution device described above, the variable information may include the know-how information. With this configuration, by utilizing behavioral change hints created based on the know-how information, it is possible to effectively achieve and maintain maximum capacity in the warehouse.

[0014] (6) In the warehouse operations execution device described above, the know-how information may include information indicating that at least one of a specific judgment and a specific action was taken in response to a specific situation in the warehouse in the past. With this configuration, by utilizing behavior change hints created based on information indicating that at least one of a specific judgment and a specific action was taken in response to a specific situation in the warehouse in the past, it is possible to effectively achieve and maintain maximum capacity in the warehouse.

[0015] (7) In the warehouse operations execution device described above, the variable information may include the inquiry information. With this configuration, the maximum capacity of the warehouse can be effectively achieved and maintained by utilizing the behavior change hints created based on the inquiry information.

[0016] (8) In the warehouse operations execution device described above, the variable information acquisition unit may acquire variable information indicating the answer to the inquiry information after acquiring the variable information including the inquiry information. With this configuration, the answer to the inquiry information can be used as variable information, and appropriate behavior change hints can be created and output based on the variable information.

[0017] Furthermore, the technologies disclosed herein can be implemented in various forms, for example, as a warehouse operations execution device, a warehouse operations execution system comprising a warehouse operations execution device and other devices (terminal devices and warehouse robots), a warehouse operations execution method, a computer program that implements these methods, and a non-temporary recording medium on which the computer program is stored. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0018] [Figure 1] This diagram schematically shows the configuration of the warehouse operations execution system 10 in this embodiment. [Figure 2] Block diagram showing the functional configuration of server device 100 [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the flow of the behavioral change hint output process in this embodiment. [Figure 4] This diagram conceptually illustrates the behavioral change hint output process of this embodiment. [Figure 5] An explanatory diagram showing the first use case of the warehouse operations execution system 10 of this embodiment. [Figure 6] An explanatory diagram showing a second use case of the warehouse operations execution system 10 of this embodiment. [Figure 7] An explanatory diagram showing a third use case of the warehouse operations execution system 10 of this embodiment. [Figure 8] Explanatory diagram showing the fourth use case of the warehouse operation execution system 10 of the present embodiment

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0019] A. Embodiment: A-1. Configuration of the warehouse operation execution system 10: FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram schematically showing the configuration of the warehouse operation execution system 10 in the present embodiment. The warehouse operation execution system 10 is a system introduced into the warehouse WH to realize the maximum capacity exertion and maintenance in the warehouse WH.

[0020] Note that the viewpoints of maximum capacity exertion and maintenance in the warehouse WH may differ for each warehouse WH and may also differ depending on the time even in the same warehouse WH. For example, viewpoints of maximum capacity exertion and maintenance in the warehouse WH include minimizing the waiting time of workers, minimizing losses in equipment and space utilization, minimizing business costs, maximizing business speed, maximizing the productivity improvement speed of workers, improving on-site strength by accumulating on-site know-how and knowledge, streamlining the site, etc.

[0021] The warehouse WH is a logistics warehouse. In the warehouse WH, a plurality of shelves RA capable of storing the packages PA are arranged with aisles PW therebetween. Also, in the warehouse WH, a temporary storage space SS for the packages PA and a sorting and inspection space CS are provided. In the sorting and inspection space CS, a plurality of booths B (B1, B2, etc.) are provided.

[0022] In the warehouse (WH), multiple workers (WO) perform various tasks such as unloading, receiving inspection, storage, picking, sorting, inspection, and packaging, shipping inspection, and loading. Multiple warehouse robots (RO) also perform various tasks. For example, transport robots such as AGVs (Automated Guided Vehicles), RGVs (Rail Guided Vehicles), and AMRs (Autonomous Mobile Robots) carry or tow goods (PA) while moving along aisles (PW). Additionally, picking robots, cleaning robots, and patrol robots (not shown) perform picking, cleaning, and patrol tasks, respectively. The warehouse (WH) is also equipped with material handling equipment such as trolleys (CA) and conveyors (CO).

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the warehouse operations execution system 10 comprises a sensing device 12, a communication device 14, a monitor 200, a worker terminal 210, an administrator terminal 220, and a server device 100. Each device constituting the warehouse operations execution system 10 is connected to each other via wired or wireless means so that they can communicate with one another.

[0024] The sensing device 12 consists of, for example, a camera, sensors, gates, a handheld terminal, etc., and detects the state of each object in the warehouse WH (position, speed of movement, shape, temperature, etc.). For example, the sensing device 12 detects the position of each worker WO and warehouse robot RO, as well as the usage status of the space including the passage PW within the warehouse WH (presence or absence of objects and people in the space).

[0025] The communication device 14 is configured, for example, as a wireless LAN access point and relays wireless communication between each device.

[0026] The monitor 200 is, for example, composed of an LCD display and displays various images and information. One or more monitors 200 are installed in the warehouse WH in a location visible to the workers WO.

[0027] The worker terminal 210 is a handheld computer held and used by the worker WO. The worker WO can use the worker terminal 210 to, for example, read codes attached to packages PA, and exchange various types of information (receiving behavioral change hints, registering know-how information, registering inquiry information, sending work completion reports, etc.). The worker terminal 210 may also have functions to detect its own position in the warehouse WH (i.e., the position of the worker WO holding the worker terminal 210), functions to detect the worker WO's condition (e.g., fatigue level) by measuring, for example, the worker WO's heart rate, body temperature, and movement speed, and a camera function to capture images of objects and generate images (still images or videos).

[0028] The administrator terminal 220 is a computer used by the warehouse (WH) administrator. The administrator can use the administrator terminal 220 to understand the work status and space utilization status in the warehouse (WH), and to set various types of information (for example, static information (SI) as described later).

[0029] The server device 100 is a device that provides various functions in the warehouse operations execution system 10. Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of the server device 100. As shown in Figure 2, the server device 100 comprises a control unit 110, a storage unit 120, a display unit 130, an operation input unit 140, and an interface unit 150. Each of these units is connected to each other so as to be able to communicate via a bus 190. The server device 100 is an example of a warehouse operations execution device.

[0030] The display unit 130 of the server device 100 is configured, for example, with a liquid crystal display, and displays various images and information. The operation input unit 140 is configured, for example, with a keyboard, mouse, microphone, etc., and receives user operations and instructions. The display unit 130 may also function as the operation input unit 140 by being equipped with a touch panel. The interface unit 150 is configured, for example, with a LAN interface or USB interface, and communicates with other devices via wired or wireless connection.

[0031] The storage unit 120 of the server device 100 is composed of, for example, ROM, RAM, a hard disk drive (HDD), and is used to store various programs and data, and as a workspace and temporary storage area for data when executing various programs. For example, the storage unit 120 stores a warehouse operations execution program CP, which is a computer program for executing the behavior change hint output processing described later. The warehouse operations execution program CP is provided, for example, stored on a computer-readable recording medium (not shown) such as a CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, or USB memory, or is provided in a state that can be obtained from an external device (a server on the network or other terminal device) via the interface unit 150, and is stored in the storage unit 120 in a state that can be operated on the server device 100.

[0032] Furthermore, the storage unit 120 of the server device 100 stores various types of information in advance or during the behavioral change hint output processing described later. These types of information include static information SI, variable information VI, variable information utilization rules RU, and performance information RI.

[0033] Static information SI represents indicators that do not change moment by moment in the warehouse WH and are fixed in place. Examples include the arrangement of shelves RA and aisles PW, and the locations of temporary storage spaces SS and sorting / inspection spaces CS. Variable information VI represents indicators that change moment by moment in the warehouse WH and includes, for example, the volume of goods (inbound and outbound volumes), the number of workers WO and warehouse robots RO (hereinafter collectively referred to as "working entities") engaged in operations, and the status of goods PA stagnation. In this embodiment, the variable information VI includes: work entity information that identifies in real time the location, productivity, and work suitability of a work entity (worker WO and warehouse robot RO); space information that identifies in real time the utilization status of space, including aisles PW, within the warehouse WH; cargo information that identifies in real time the movement status of cargo PA within the warehouse WH (e.g., the elapsed time until cargo PA reaches its destination); work progress information that identifies in real time a comparison between planned and actual values ​​of work in the warehouse WH; know-how information that shows know-how related to work in the warehouse WH; and inquiry information that identifies inquiries from work entities WO and RO in real time. The variable information VI does not necessarily have to include some of this information.

[0034] The variable information utilization rule RU is a rule for creating behavioral change hints to be presented to each work unit WO and RO by utilizing the variable information VI. The performance information RI is information that shows the work performance in the warehouse WH.

[0035] The control unit 110 of the server device 100 is composed of, for example, a CPU, and controls the operation of the server device 100 by executing a computer program read from the storage unit 120. For example, the control unit 110 reads and executes the warehouse operations execution program CP from the storage unit 120, and functions as a hint output unit 111 and a device linkage unit 118 that execute the behavior change hint output processing described later. The hint output unit 111 includes, as a functional module, a change information acquisition unit 112, a hint creation unit 113, and a performance information recording unit 114. The functions of each of these units will be explained in accordance with the description of the behavior change hint output processing described later.

[0036] A-2. Processing of output of behavior change hints: Next, the behavioral change hint output process performed in the warehouse operations execution system 10 of this embodiment will be described. The behavioral change hint output process is the process of creating behavioral change hints to be presented to each work unit WO,RO engaged in warehouse WH operations and outputting them in a perceptible manner to the work units WO,RO. Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing the flow of the behavioral change hint output process of this embodiment. Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram conceptually showing the behavioral change hint output process of this embodiment.

[0037] First, the variable information acquisition unit 112 (Figure 2) of the server device 100 acquires variable information VI via the interface unit 150 (S110). The acquired variable information VI is stored in the storage unit 120. As described above, the variable information VI is information that shows indicators that change moment by moment in the warehouse WH, and includes, for example, the volume of goods, the number of workers (workers WO and warehouse robots RO) engaged in the work, and the status of the dwell of goods PA. This information is acquired, for example, based on the detection results by the sensing device 12.

[0038] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the variable information VI includes work body information that identifies at least one of the following in real time for a work body (worker WO and warehouse robot RO): position, productivity, and work suitability; spatial information that identifies in real time the utilization status of the space, including the aisle PW, within the warehouse WH; cargo information that identifies in real time the movement status of cargo PA within the warehouse WH; work progress information that identifies in real time a comparison between planned and actual values ​​of work in the warehouse WH; know-how information that shows know-how related to work in the warehouse WH; and inquiry information that identifies inquiries from work bodies WO and RO in real time. The position of the work body is obtained, for example, based on the position detection result by the sensing device 12 or the position detection result by the worker terminal 210. The productivity of the work body is obtained, for example, based on pre-set information (age, height, weight, gender, past performance of worker WO, maximum processing capacity, movement speed of warehouse robot RO, etc.), the movement speed detection result by the sensing device 12 or the movement speed detection result by the worker terminal 210, the actual number of items processed and the time required for processing. Furthermore, the suitability of a work object for work is acquired, for example, based on the above-mentioned pre-set information, including temperature detection results from the sensing device 12, heart rate and / or body temperature detection results from the worker terminal 210, and the average value of past work productivity. The utilization status of space including aisles PW within the warehouse WH and the movement status of cargo PA within the warehouse WH are acquired, for example, based on the presence or absence detection results of objects by the sensing device 12. Work progress information that identifies the comparison between planned and actual values ​​of work in the warehouse WH in real time is acquired, for example, from the administrator terminal 220 or other systems 16 (see Figure 4) for work progress management in the warehouse WH. Know-how information that shows know-how regarding work in the warehouse WH, and inquiry information that identifies inquiries from work objects WO,RO in real time are acquired, for example, from the administrator terminal 220, worker terminal 210, and warehouse robot RO. Know-how information includes, for example, information indicating that at least one of a specific judgment and a specific action was made in response to a specific situation in the warehouse WH in the past.

[0039] The device linkage unit 118 (Figure 2) of the server device 100 performs linkage processing with devices (sensing device 12, other systems 16, worker terminal 210, warehouse robot RO, etc.) for acquiring variable information VI. This linkage processing uses a pre-configured common linkage method and standard definition to import information acquired by the above devices into the server device 100 as variable information VI, and is executed when a device is introduced to the warehouse WH. This linkage processing allows information acquired by additional devices introduced to the warehouse WH to be imported into the server device 100 as variable information VI.

[0040] Next, the hint generation unit 113 (Figure 2) of the server device 100 generates behavioral change hints for the workers WO and RO based on the variable information utilization rule RU (S130). The behavioral change hints are not direct work instructions for the workers WO and RO, but rather information, suggestions, proposals, requests, etc. that encourage the workers WO and RO to change their behavior. The behavioral change hints are output to the workers WO and RO in order to achieve and maintain maximum capacity in the warehouse WH, and include, for example, facts and events currently occurring, inferences based on certain facts and events, and suggestions for specific actions.

[0041] For example, the hint generation unit 113 refers to work progress information, which identifies in real time a comparison between planned values ​​(e.g., time throughput / number of personnel by location and type of work) and actual values ​​of work in the warehouse (WH) from the variable information VI, and creates behavior change hints that indicate the progress of the work. More specifically, the hint generation unit 113 creates a behavior change hint such as, "The actual value (progress) of the work is 40% lower than the planned value." Such behavior change hints encourage the work units WO and RO to change the pace or priority of their work.

[0042] Furthermore, for example, the hint generation unit 113 refers to spatial information from the variable information VI, which identifies the real-time usage status of space within the warehouse WH, and creates behavioral change hints that indicate the status of specific locations or equipment within the warehouse WH. More specifically, the hint generation unit 113 creates a behavioral change hint such as, "The area in front of the elevator on the 6th floor is full of packages." Such behavioral change hints encourage workers WO and RO to prioritize processing the packages placed in front of the elevator on the 6th floor.

[0043] Furthermore, for example, the hint creation unit 113 refers to know-how information from the variable information VI that shows know-how related to warehouse WH operations, and creates behavior change hints that suggest specific tasks or actions. More specifically, the hint creation unit 113 creates a behavior change hint such as "It's time to contact the carrier." Such a behavior change hint prompts the work units WO and RO to contact the carrier at the scheduled time. Also, the hint creation unit 113 refers to know-how information and creates a behavior change hint such as "A decision B was made regarding problem A, and action C was taken." Such a behavior change hint prompts the work units WO and RO, who are facing a problem similar to problem A, to make appropriate decisions and take appropriate actions.

[0044] Furthermore, for example, the hint creation unit 113 refers to inquiry information that identifies inquiries from workers WO and RO in real time from the variable information VI, and creates a behavior change hint indicating the content of the inquiry. More specifically, the hint creation unit 113 creates a behavior change hint such as, "There is a request to report the situation in front of the elevator on the 3rd floor." Such a behavior change hint prompts workers WO and RO, who are near the elevator on the 3rd floor, to report the situation in front of the elevator on the 3rd floor.

[0045] Next, the hint output unit 111 (Figure 2) of the server device 100 outputs a behavior change hint (S140). For example, the hint output unit 111 transmits the behavior change hint to the worker terminal 210 and / or the warehouse robot RO. Upon receiving the behavior change hint, the worker WO can refer to the hint and take appropriate action to achieve and maintain maximum capacity in the warehouse. The hint output unit 111 may also present the behavior change hint to the worker WO by displaying it on the monitor 200.

[0046] Next, the performance information recording unit 114 (Figure 2) of the server device 100 creates and records performance information RI showing the work performance in the warehouse WH (S150). The performance information RI includes a record of the overall work performance in the warehouse WH, and includes, for example, a record of the work performed by each work unit WO,RO, a record of the volume of goods transported, a record of the number of work units WO,RO engaged in the work, and a record of the status of the cargo PA. The performance information RI is stored in the storage unit 120.

[0047] The process described above is repeatedly executed until the behavior change hint output process is completed (S160:YES). As shown in Figure 4, the worker WO can not only receive behavior change hints issued from the server device 100, but can also request behavior change hints themselves by operating the worker terminal 210. In other words, the warehouse operations execution system 10 of this embodiment is a push-pull hybrid system that can perform both push-type and pull-type behavior change hint output.

[0048] Furthermore, as shown in Figure 4, in the warehouse operations execution system 10 of this embodiment, performance information RI, which shows the work performance in the warehouse WH, is extracted and reflected, and recording, storage, analysis, and learning are performed. Analysis and learning are performed with human intervention, and on-site know-how and knowledge based on the unique conditions of each warehouse WH are incorporated into the variable information utilization rule RU, thereby reducing the degree of reliance on individuals in operations and promoting the standardization of work quality. In addition, defining it as a rule makes it easy to evaluate its validity. Furthermore, by using a computer including AI with human intervention to estimate the causal relationships of multiple performance information RIs and appropriately incorporating the perspective of predicting occurrences in advance into the variable information utilization rule RU, it becomes possible to generate hints for behavioral change that are in line with the latest situation in the warehouse WH.

[0049] Figures 5 to 8 are explanatory diagrams illustrating use cases of the warehouse operations execution system 10 of this embodiment. Each of Figures 5 to 8 shows the processing content by each device (server device 100, monitor 200, worker terminal 210, administrator terminal 220, and other systems 16) that constitutes the warehouse operations execution system 10.

[0050] Figure 5 shows a use case in which work progress information is output in real time, identifying a comparison between planned and actual values ​​of work as a hint for behavioral change. In this use case, for example, the planned values ​​of work registered in advance on the administrator terminal 220 and the actual values ​​of work managed on another system 16 are acquired by the server device 100 as work progress information.

[0051] The server device 100 monitors work progress information and outputs the work progress information as a behavior change hint when the difference between the planned value and the actual value exceeds a preset threshold (i.e., when it detects the occurrence of a gap of a certain magnitude or more). For example, the server device 100 displays an image of behavior change hint H11 on the monitor 200, indicating that the work progress is 40% below the planned value. The server device 100 also sends a behavior change hint H12 to each worker terminal 210, for example, "The progress of the picking work is 40% below the planned value."

[0052] When a worker WO perceives a behavior change hint, they make a judgment and give instructions on whether or not to take action. If they decide to take action, they send a declaration to the server device 100 using the worker terminal 210 to indicate that they have started taking action. Upon receiving the declaration, the server device 100 detects that action has begun and displays an image of the behavior change hint H13 on the monitor 200, indicating that they are taking action on a productivity problem. The server device 100 may also send similar behavior change hints to each worker terminal 210. Alternatively, the warehouse robot RO may take action to address the above problem.

[0053] When the worker WO who addresses the above problem has completed the response, they send a response completion declaration to the server device 100 using the worker terminal 210, which includes a report such as, "I have adjusted to prioritize single-task batches." When the server device 100 detects that the response has been completed by receiving the response completion declaration, it displays an image of a behavior change hint H14 on the monitor 200, indicating that the productivity problem has been addressed. The server device 100 may also send similar behavior change hints to each worker terminal 210.

[0054] The server device 100 continuously monitors work progress information, and when the difference between the planned value and the actual value falls below a preset threshold (i.e., when the gap has been closed), it displays a behavior change hint H15 on the monitor 200 indicating that the difference has decreased. The server device 100 may also send a similar behavior change hint to each worker terminal 210.

[0055] In the use case shown in Figure 5, the worker (WO) can instantly grasp whether the work is progressing ahead of or behind schedule compared to the planned values. This reduces the burden (time) required to determine whether action is necessary and to formulate a recovery plan. Furthermore, the actual actions taken can be accumulated as know-how and knowledge, enabling further reduction of workload through data utilization.

[0056] Figure 6 shows a use case in which spatial information identifying the real-time usage status of space within the warehouse (WH) is output as a hint for behavioral change. In this use case, when a worker (WO) discovers something that should be reported regarding the usage status of space within the warehouse (WH) or the safety and hygiene situation, they report the situation using the worker terminal 210. For example, the worker (WO) sends a message to the server device 100 saying, "The area in front of the elevator on the 6th floor is full of goods," along with an image of the situation. Other examples of spatial information include information such as, "The temporary storage area is overflowing with items," "Items are placed under the fire shutter," and "The material handling equipment is not operational." The server device 100 may also acquire spatial information from the sensing device 12.

[0057] When the server device 100 detects an alert event (spatial congestion) by receiving spatial information, it displays an image of a behavioral change hint H22 indicating the alert event on the monitor 200. The server device 100 also sends a behavioral change hint H21 to each worker terminal 210, for example, "The area in front of the elevator on the 6th floor is full of luggage."

[0058] When a worker WO perceives a behavioral change hint, they make a judgment and give instructions on whether or not action is necessary. If action is necessary, they send a declaration to the server device 100 using the worker terminal 210 to indicate that action has been initiated. The worker WO sends a report to the server device 100, for example, "I have instructed the worker on the 6th floor to assist with transporting items to the 1st floor." The warehouse robot RO may also perform the action to address the above problem.

[0059] When the server device 100 detects the start of an action by receiving a declaration of action commencement, it displays an image of behavior change hint H23 on the monitor 200, indicating that an action is being taken to address the spatial congestion problem. The server device 100 may also send a similar behavior change hint to each worker terminal 210.

[0060] When the worker WO who is addressing the above problem has completed the task, they send a completion declaration to the server device 100 using the worker terminal 210, for example, "The luggage congestion in front of the elevator on the 6th floor has been resolved." Upon receiving the completion declaration, the server device 100 detects that the task has been completed and displays a notification on the monitor 200 indicating that the spatial congestion problem has been resolved.

[0061] In the use case shown in Figure 6, by digitizing information from outside the system (offline), information on alert events can be shared immediately, the burden (time) required to determine whether a response is necessary and to formulate a recovery plan can be reduced, and the actual response content can be accumulated as know-how and knowledge, thereby achieving further burden reduction through data utilization.

[0062] Figure 7 shows a use case in which know-how information related to warehouse (WH) operations is output as a hint for behavioral change. In this use case, worker (WO) uses worker terminal 210 to register a reminder, for example, to contact the transporter at 16:30. As a result, server device 100 acquires know-how information that identifies the reminder. Other examples of reminders include checking for replenishment of supplies, issuing reports, and checking the status on the screen. Server device 100 may also acquire know-how information from other devices such as other systems 16.

[0063] When the server device 100 detects a reminder event, for example, when the reminder time arrives, regarding a reminder included in the know-how information, it sends a behavior change hint H31 indicating the reminder, "It's time to contact the carrier," to the worker terminal 210 that is the target of the reminder. The server device 100 may also display an image of the behavior change hint indicating the reminder on the monitor 200.

[0064] When a worker WO perceives a behavioral change hint, they make a judgment and give instructions on whether or not to take action. If they decide to take action, they use the worker terminal 210 to send a declaration to the server device 100 that they have started taking action.

[0065] When the server device 100 detects the start of a response by receiving a response commencement declaration, it outputs to the worker terminal 210 and / or monitor 200 that it is currently responding to the reminder.

[0066] When the worker WO responds to the above reminder, they send a completion declaration to the server device 100 using the worker terminal 210 when they have completed the task. Upon receiving the completion declaration, the server device 100 detects that the task has been completed and displays a notification on the monitor 200 indicating that the task for the reminder has been completed.

[0067] In the use case shown in Figure 7, the worker WO can freely use the system as a memo for routine work, thereby reducing the burden of daily offline handovers and suppressing communication errors (especially preventing omissions during sudden shift changes or handovers between personnel). At the same time, by confirming the overall status of whether each routine task is being performed appropriately, the service level to business partners and related companies can be improved.

[0068] Figure 8 shows a use case in which query information is output in real time to identify inquiries from workers (WO) and warehouse robots (RO) as hints for behavioral change. In this use case, worker WO issues an inquiry using worker terminal 210 when they want to know the usage status of space and equipment in the warehouse (WH) or the location of workers (WO) and RO. For example, worker WO sends a message to server device 100 saying, "I want to know the situation in front of the elevator on the 3rd floor." Inquiries may also be issued by warehouse robot RO.

[0069] When the server device 100 receives and detects an inquiry, it sends a behavior change hint H41 indicating the content of the inquiry, such as "We have a request for a report on the situation in front of the elevator on the 3rd floor," to each worker terminal 210. The server device 100 may refer to the current location of each worker WO and selectively send the behavior change hint H41 to workers WO from whom it is considered possible to obtain factual information that could serve as a response. Alternatively, it may obtain factual information from a sensing device 12 or the like. The server device 100 may display an image of the behavior change hint on the monitor 200.

[0070] A worker WO who perceives a behavioral change hint sends a response to the server device 100, for example, "The situation in front of the elevator on the 3rd floor is...", along with an image of the situation. The response may also be variable information including at least one of the following: work information, cargo information, work progress information, and know-how information.

[0071] When the server device 100 detects a response, it sends a behavior change hint H42 to the worker terminal 210 that issued the inquiry, indicating the response, for example, "The situation in front of the elevator on the 3rd floor is..."

[0072] In the use case shown in Figure 8, by facilitating the collection of information such as the condition of the space and equipment, and the location of workers, the effort and waiting time required for verification can be reduced. Furthermore, by understanding the inquiry situation occurring within the warehouse warehouse and accumulating data on the trends of such inquiries, it is possible to digitize the excellent on-site capabilities themselves, which prevent factors that hinder the streamlining of warehouse operations, and the burden on inquiries themselves can also be reduced. In addition, it can be used as one indicator for estimating the effectiveness of introducing the sensing device 12.

[0073] A-3. Effects of this embodiment: As described above, the server device 100 of this embodiment includes a variable information acquisition unit 112, a hint creation unit 113, and a hint output unit 111. The variable information acquisition unit 112 acquires variable information VI which includes at least one of the following: work subject information that identifies in real time the position, productivity, and work suitability of a work subject (worker WO and / or warehouse robot RO) engaged in work in the warehouse WH; space information that identifies in real time the utilization status of the space including the passage PW within the warehouse WH; cargo information that identifies in real time the movement status of cargo PA within the warehouse WH; work progress information that identifies in real time the comparison between the planned value and the actual value of the work; know-how information that shows know-how related to work in the warehouse WH; and inquiry information that identifies inquiries from work subjects in real time. The hint creation unit 113 creates behavior change hints for work subjects WO and RO based on a pre-set variable information usage rule RU and the variable information VI. The hint output unit 111 outputs behavior change hints.

[0074] Thus, the server device 100 of this embodiment creates and outputs behavioral change hints for work units WO and RO based on the variable information utilization rule RU and the variable information VI. Therefore, according to the server device 100 of this embodiment, it is possible to digitize on-site capabilities, including on-site know-how and knowledge, and streamline on-site operations by utilizing behavioral change hints, thereby enabling the maximization and maintenance of capacity in the warehouse WH.

[0075] In the server device 100 of this embodiment, the behavior change hint may include the content of the variable information VI itself. In this way, by utilizing the behavior change hint which includes the content of the variable information VI itself, it is possible to effectively achieve and maintain maximum capacity in the warehouse WH.

[0076] In the server device 100 of this embodiment, the variable information VI may include work progress information. In this way, by utilizing behavior change hints created based on the work progress information, it is possible to effectively achieve and maintain maximum capacity in the warehouse WH.

[0077] In the server device 100 of this embodiment, the work progress information may include information showing the difference between the planned value and the actual value. In this way, by utilizing behavior change hints created based on the difference between the planned value and the actual value, it is possible to effectively achieve and maintain the maximum capacity of the warehouse (WH).

[0078] In the server device 100 of this embodiment, the variable information VI may include know-how information. In this way, by utilizing behavioral change hints created based on the know-how information, it is possible to effectively achieve and maintain maximum capacity in the warehouse WH.

[0079] In the server device 100 of this embodiment, the know-how information may include information indicating that at least one of a specific judgment and a specific action was taken in response to a specific situation in the warehouse (WH) in the past. In this way, by utilizing behavioral change hints created based on information indicating that at least one of a specific judgment and a specific action was taken in response to a specific situation in the warehouse (WH) in the past, it is possible to effectively achieve and maintain the maximum capacity of the warehouse (WH).

[0080] In the server device 100 of this embodiment, the variable information VI may include query information. In this way, behavioral change hints created based on the query information can be used to effectively achieve and maintain maximum capacity in the warehouse WH.

[0081] In the server device 100 of this embodiment, the variable information acquisition unit 112 may acquire a variable information VI that shows the answer to the inquiry information after acquiring a variable information VI that includes the inquiry information. In this way, the answer to the inquiry information can be used as a variable information VI, and appropriate behavior change hints can be created and output based on the variable information VI.

[0082] B. Variations: The technologies disclosed herein are not limited to the embodiments described above and can be modified in various forms without departing from their essence, for example, the following modifications are possible.

[0083] The configuration of the warehouse operations execution system 10 and the devices included in the warehouse operations execution system 10 in the above embodiment is merely an example and can be modified in various ways. For example, in the above embodiment, at least some of the multiple functional blocks included in the control unit 110 of the server device 100 may be omitted.

[0084] The content of the behavioral change hint output process in the above embodiment is merely an example and can be modified in various ways. For example, in the above embodiment, at least some of the steps constituting the behavioral change hint output process may be omitted.

[0085] The specific content of the variable information VI and the specific content of the behavioral change hints in the above embodiment are merely examples and can be modified in various ways.

[0086] In the above embodiment, some of the configuration implemented by hardware may be replaced with software, and conversely, some of the configuration implemented by software may be replaced with hardware. [Explanation of symbols]

[0087] 10: Warehouse operations execution system 12: Sensing device 14: Communication device 100: Server device 110: Control unit 111: Hint output unit 112: Variable information acquisition unit 113: Hint creation unit 114: Performance information recording unit 118: Device linkage unit 120: Storage unit 130: Display unit 140: Operation input unit 150: Interface unit 190: Bus 200: Monitor 210: Worker terminal 220: Administrator terminal CA: Cart CO: Conveyor CP: Warehouse operations execution program CS: Sorting / inspection space PA: Luggage PW: Aisle RA: Shelf RO: Warehouse robot SS: Temporary storage space WH: Warehouse WO: Worker

Claims

1. Warehouse operations execution device, A variable information acquisition unit acquires variable information including at least one of the following: work object information that identifies in real time the location, productivity, and work suitability of a work object, which is a worker and / or warehouse robot engaged in warehouse work; spatial information that identifies in real time the utilization status of space, including aisles, within the warehouse; cargo information that identifies in real time the movement status of cargo within the warehouse; work progress information that identifies in real time the comparison between planned and actual values ​​of the work; know-how information that indicates know-how related to warehouse work; and inquiry information that identifies in real time inquiries from the work object. A hint creation unit that creates behavioral change hints for the work object based on pre-set variable information usage rules and the variable information, A hint output unit that outputs the aforementioned behavioral change hints, A warehouse operations execution device equipped with the following features.

2. A warehouse operations execution device according to claim 1, The aforementioned behavioral change hints include the content of the variable information itself, and the warehouse operations execution device.

3. A warehouse operations execution device according to claim 1 or claim 2, The aforementioned variable information includes the aforementioned work progress information, and is provided by a warehouse operations execution device.

4. A warehouse operations execution device according to claim 3, Warehouse operation execution device, which includes information showing the difference between the planned value and the actual value of the work progress information.

5. A warehouse operations execution device according to claim 1 or claim 2, The aforementioned variable information includes the aforementioned know-how information, and is provided by a warehouse operations execution device.

6. A warehouse operations execution device according to claim 5, Warehouse operations execution device, wherein the aforementioned know-how information includes information indicating that at least one of a specific judgment and a specific action was taken in response to a specific situation in the warehouse in the past.

7. A warehouse operations execution device according to claim 1 or claim 2, The aforementioned variable information includes the aforementioned inquiry information, and is provided by the warehouse operations execution device.

8. A warehouse operations execution device according to claim 7, The aforementioned variable information acquisition unit is a warehouse operation execution device that, after acquiring the variable information including the inquiry information, acquires the variable information indicating the answer to the inquiry information.

9. A method for carrying out warehouse operations, A process for acquiring variable information including at least one of the following: work information that identifies in real time the location, productivity, and work suitability of a work body, which is a worker and / or warehouse robot engaged in warehouse work; spatial information that identifies in real time the utilization status of space, including aisles, within the warehouse; cargo information that identifies in real time the movement status of cargo within the warehouse; work progress information that identifies in real time a comparison between planned and actual values ​​of the work; know-how information that shows know-how related to warehouse work; and inquiry information that identifies in real time inquiries from the work body. A process of creating behavioral change hints for the work entity based on pre-set rules for using variable information and the variable information, The process of outputting the aforementioned behavioral change hints, A method for executing warehouse operations, which includes the following features.

10. A computer program for executing warehouse operations, On the computer, A process for acquiring variable information including at least one of the following: work information that identifies in real time the location, productivity, and work suitability of a work body, which is a worker and / or warehouse robot engaged in warehouse work; spatial information that identifies in real time the utilization status of space, including aisles, within the warehouse; cargo information that identifies in real time the movement status of cargo within the warehouse; work progress information that identifies in real time a comparison between planned and actual values ​​of the work; know-how information that indicates know-how related to warehouse work; and inquiry information that identifies in real time inquiries from the work body. A process for creating behavioral change hints for the work entity based on pre-set rules for using variable information and the variable information, The process of outputting the aforementioned behavioral change hints, A computer program that executes something.

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