Feedback method, feedback device, and program

Abstract

Achieve the metrics set for the warehouse. [Solution] The feedback method communicates with a warehouse management system that manages work site data for warehouse operations, accepts the setting of warehouse indicators and approval conditions that determine whether to allow automatic or user-operated updates of work site data, obtains work site data from the warehouse management system, executes a simulation to calculate the first simulation result of the work using the work site data obtained from the warehouse management system, provisionally updates the work site data and executes a simulation to calculate the second simulation result to satisfy the indicators, and changes the method of updating the work site data based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result of the work, and the second simulation result of the work.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a feedback method, a feedback device, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a method that enables rearrangement of articles in a warehouse according to a target. The method receives information on the warehouse and the articles in the warehouse, and identifies new articles expected to be received in the warehouse and the shipping predictions of the articles in the warehouse. Then, the method determines the optimal layout of the articles in the current warehouse based on the article shipping prediction, and determines the time required to rearrange the articles to the optimal layout. Then, the method determines to rearrange the articles in the warehouse based on the fact that the time required to rearrange the articles is less than a threshold time.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Changes such as changes in the layout of a warehouse or the arrangement of the inventory of articles stored in the warehouse may be made based on the experience of a person skilled in the business. For example, in order to achieve an index corresponding to the management target set for the warehouse, a situation may be considered in which the inventory arrangement of articles is changed based on the experience of a person skilled in the business. In the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is no room for the judgment of a user such as a warehouse manager in the rearrangement of the articles in the warehouse. Therefore, there is room for improvement in making the above changes to achieve the index by utilizing the experience of a skilled user.

[0005] This disclosure was devised in light of the aforementioned conventional circumstances and aims to achieve the metrics set for warehouses. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] This disclosure provides a feedback method that communicates with a warehouse management system that manages work site data for warehouse operations, accepts the setting of indicators for the warehouse and the setting of approval conditions that determine whether to allow automatic or user-operated updates of the work site data, acquires the work site data from the warehouse management system, performs a simulation to calculate a first simulation result of the work using the work site data acquired from the warehouse management system, provisionally updates the work site data and performs a simulation to calculate a second simulation result that satisfies the indicators, and changes the method of updating the work site data based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result of the work, and the second simulation result of the work.

[0007] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a feedback device comprising a processor and memory, wherein the processor and memory cooperate to communicate with a warehouse management system that manages at least work site data for warehouse operations, accepts the setting of indicators for the warehouse and the setting of approval conditions that determine whether to allow automatic or user-operated updates of the work site data, acquires the work site data from the warehouse management system, executes a simulation to calculate a first simulation result of the work using the work site data acquired from the warehouse management system, provisionally updates the work site data and executes a simulation to calculate a second simulation result that satisfies the indicators, and changes the method of updating the work site data based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result of the work, and the second simulation result of the work.

[0008] Furthermore, this disclosure provides a program for causing a computing device to communicate with a warehouse management system that manages at least work site data for warehouse operations, to accept the setting of indicators for the warehouse, the setting of approval conditions that determine whether to allow automatic or user-operated updates of the work site data, to acquire the work site data from the warehouse management system, to execute a simulation to calculate a first simulation result of the work using the work site data acquired from the warehouse management system, to execute a simulation to provisionally update the work site data and calculate a second simulation result to satisfy the indicators, and to change the method of updating the work site data based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result of the work, and the second simulation result of the work.

[0009] Furthermore, any combination of the above components, as well as any conversion of the expressions of this disclosure between methods, apparatus, systems, storage media, computer programs, etc., are also valid as aspects of this disclosure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to this disclosure, the metrics set for warehouses can be achieved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Block diagram showing an example configuration of the feedback system according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the feedback device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] Sequence diagram showing the processing of the feedback system according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 4] Flowchart showing the processing of the feedback device according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 5] Table diagram showing an example of feedback by the feedback device according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 6] Schematic diagram showing an example of updating work site data according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 7] Sequence diagram showing the processing of the feedback system according to a modified example of Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] A schematic diagram showing an example of a comparison of simulation results related to a modified example of Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] Table diagram illustrating an example of comparing simulation results related to a modified example of Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] Table diagram showing an example of feedback by a feedback device according to a modified embodiment of Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] Schematic diagram showing an example of updating work site data according to a modified example of Embodiment 1. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The following description will detail embodiments specifically illustrating the feedback method, feedback device, and program described herein, with reference to the drawings as appropriate. However, unnecessarily detailed explanations may be omitted. For example, detailed explanations of already well-known matters and redundant explanations of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid the following description becoming unnecessarily verbose and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable those skilled in the art to fully understand this disclosure and are not intended to limit the subject matter described in the claims.

[0013] (Embodiment 1) [Feedback System] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a feedback system 1 according to Embodiment 1. The feedback system 1 includes a feedback device 10, a user terminal 20, and a warehouse management system 30. In the feedback system 1, the feedback device 10 executes a simulation of the work using the work site data for the work in the warehouse managed by the warehouse management system 30. Further, the feedback device 10 temporarily updates the work site data and executes a simulation of the work using the temporarily updated work site data. Then, based on a preset approval condition and both simulation results, the feedback device 10 updates the work site data managed by the warehouse management system 30 with the temporarily updated work site data automatically or by a user operation via the user terminal. Thereby, the feedback system 1 supports to satisfy an index corresponding to the management target of the warehouse. This will be described in detail below.

[0014] The feedback device 10 is configured using a general-purpose computer device, for example, a personal computer or a server computer. The same applies to the user terminal 20 and the warehouse management system 30. Further, the user terminal 20 may be a terminal that can be carried by a user, such as a tablet or a smartphone. Note that the feedback device 10 may be referred to as an arithmetic device.

[0015] The feedback device 10 is connected to the user terminal 20 and the warehouse management system 30 so as to be able to communicate data therewith. The feedback system 1 is used by a user such as a warehouse manager.

[0016] The feedback device 10 receives, from the user terminal 20, an instruction for optimization, a setting of an index, and a setting of an approval condition, respectively, by a user operation. In this specification, optimization may sometimes be referred to as provisional update. Also, the index may sometimes be referred to as a Key Performance Indicator (hereinafter referred to as "KPI"). Examples of the index include the man-hours of warehouse work, the throughput of the warehouse, etc. The throughput of the warehouse is one of the indexes for evaluating the efficiency of the warehouse, and is defined as, for example, the amount of goods shipped from the warehouse over a certain period. In this specification, goods include products, materials, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0017] Provisional update means adjusting the on-site work data for warehouse work, which is managed by the warehouse management system 30. The on-site work data includes, for example, the inventory arrangement of goods stored in the warehouse, an operation list indicating the procedure of warehouse work, equipment data indicating the equipment in the warehouse, and personnel data indicating the workers who execute the warehouse work. Warehouse work includes, for example, picking of goods stored in the warehouse. Also, the operation list includes a pick list indicating which goods to pick in which order when the worker performs picking.

[0018] The provisional update is performed by the feedback device 10 on the on-site work data acquired from the warehouse management system 30. When permission is obtained automatically or by a user operation, the feedback device 10 rewrites the on-site work data that was the basis of the provisionally updated on-site work data, which is managed by the warehouse management system 30, with the provisionally updated on-site work data. In this specification, rewriting the on-site work data managed by the warehouse management system 30 with the provisionally updated on-site work data may sometimes be referred to as updating the on-site work data.

[0019] The approval condition is a condition that determines whether to automatically update the on-site work data or whether permission for update by a user operation is required. Examples of the approval condition will be described later.

[0020] When the feedback device 10 receives optimization instructions, indicator settings, and approval condition settings from the user terminal 20, it acquires work site data from the warehouse management system 30.

[0021] The feedback device 10 performs a simulation of warehouse operations using a warehouse model for simulating warehouse operations and work site data acquired from the warehouse management system 30. The warehouse model may be prepared in advance. For example, the feedback device 10 acquires inventory placement, pick lists, and personnel data from the warehouse management system 30 and performs a simulation of picking by workers. The content of the simulation performed, i.e., the warehouse operations, may be determined, for example, according to set indicators, or may be set in advance by the user or the like. The simulation performed by the feedback device 10 using provisional, unupdated work site data is sometimes referred to as the first simulation.

[0022] The feedback device 10 performs a preliminary update of the work site data acquired from the warehouse management system 30. The feedback device 10 performs the preliminary update to satisfy indicators corresponding to the warehouse management objectives. For example, if the reduction of man-hours required for picking is set as the indicator, the feedback device 10 adjusts the pick list or the inventory placement of items so that the man-hours required for picking are reduced. For example, the feedback device 10 may set the worker's travel distance as the objective function and adjust the pick list, inventory placement of items, etc. so that the objective function is minimized. For example, the feedback device 10 may adjust the work site data, i.e., perform a preliminary update, by repeatedly performing simulations using a warehouse model.

[0023] The feedback device 10 uses the warehouse model and provisionally updated work site data to perform a simulation of warehouse operations. For example, the feedback device 10 uses provisionally updated inventory placement, pick lists, and personnel data to perform a simulation of picking by workers. The simulation performed by the feedback device 10 using provisionally updated work site data is sometimes referred to as the second simulation.

[0024] The feedback device 10 compares the results of the first simulation with the results of the second simulation and obtains a comparison result. An example of a comparison result is a comparison between the distance traveled by an operator when performing a picking task in the first simulation and the distance traveled by an operator when performing a picking task in the second simulation. For example, if the reduction of man-hours required for picking is set as an indicator, then work site data such as the pick list and inventory placement of items are provisionally updated to satisfy that indicator. Therefore, it is possible that the distance traveled as a result of the second simulation is shorter than the distance traveled as a result of the first simulation. In other words, in this case, the feedback device 10 obtains a comparison result that the distance traveled as a result of the second simulation is shorter than the distance traveled as a result of the first simulation. The feedback device 10 further calculates how much the distance traveled in the second simulation has been reduced compared to the distance traveled in the first simulation and obtains a calculation result. For example, the feedback device 10 obtains a result that the distance traveled in the second simulation has been reduced by 40% compared to the distance traveled in the first simulation. Alternatively, the feedback device 10 may obtain, for example, a result that the distance traveled in the second simulation is 1 km shorter than the distance traveled in the first simulation.

[0025] For example, if the pick list is provisionally updated to meet the indicator, the result of the second simulation will be one that meets that indicator. In other words, the content of the provisional update of work site data such as the pick list is an improvement measure related to warehouse management, based on an indicator corresponding to the warehouse management objective. If work is carried out in the actual warehouse based on the work site data managed by the warehouse management system 30, there is a high probability that the result of the first simulation will be obtained in the actual warehouse as well. However, if improvement measures are taken, that is, if work is carried out in the actual warehouse based on the provisionally updated work site data, there is a high probability that the result of the second simulation will be obtained in the actual warehouse as well. Improvement measures are measures taken to obtain a comparison result between the result of the first simulation and the result of the second simulation. A specific example is an improvement measure to reduce the distance traveled by workers during picking by 50%, such as changing the inventory arrangement of goods.

[0026] The feedback device 10 changes the method of updating the work site data based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result, and the second simulation result. The method of updating the work site data is transmitted to the user terminal. In this way, the feedback device 10 notifies the user of the method of updating the work site data. The method of updating the work site data is either that the feedback device 10 updates the work site data automatically, in other words, without obtaining user approval, or that user approval is required to update the work site data. Changing the method of updating the work site data means changing whether the feedback device 10 updates the work site data automatically or whether it is updated after obtaining user approval. In this specification, notification may be referred to as feedback.

[0027] Whether user approval is required to update work site data is determined based on the approval conditions, the first simulation results, and the second simulation results. More precisely, it is determined based on the approval conditions and the improvement measures. For example, the approval conditions could be set as follows: "If the improvement measures meet the indicator using the warehouse's specified resources, user approval is not required." The warehouse's specified resources include, for example, warehouse equipment and personnel, i.e., workers. Alternatively, the approval conditions could be set as follows: "If the improvement measures meet the indicator by expanding the warehouse's specified resources, user approval is required." Alternatively, the approval conditions could be set as follows: "If the improvement measures meet the indicator using the warehouse's specified resources, and the time required for warehouse work exceeds a predetermined time compared to not adopting the improvement measures, user approval is required." In this embodiment, the above three approval conditions are set by user operation. Specific examples of when these approval conditions are set will be described later with reference to Figure 5. Note that these examples of setting approval conditions are just examples and are not limited to these. Approval conditions may be arbitrarily set by the user, etc.

[0028] Based on the approval conditions, the first simulation results, and the second simulation results, the feedback device 10 notifies the user terminal 20 of the comparison results between the first and second simulation results and improvement measures based on the indicators, if user approval is required to update the work site data. At the same time, the feedback device 10 also notifies the user of the method for updating the work site data, that is, that user approval is required to update the work site data. In short, the feedback device 10 displays an approval screen for updating the work site data on the user terminal 20. This allows the user to confirm the benefits obtained by updating the work site data. If the feedback device 10 obtains user approval via the user terminal 20, it updates the work site data.

[0029] Based on the approval conditions, the first simulation results, and the second simulation results, the feedback device 10 updates the work site data if user approval is not required for updating the work site data. At this time, the feedback device 10 notifies the user terminal 20 of the method of updating the work site data, that is, that the feedback device 10 will automatically update (or has updated) the work site data. The feedback device 10 also notifies the user terminal 20 of the comparison results between the first and second simulation results and the improvement measures. In short, the feedback device 10 displays the updated work site data on the user terminal 20. This allows the user to confirm the benefits obtained from updating the work site data.

[0030] The processing of the feedback device 10 is carried out through the cooperation of the processor 11 and the memory 12 (see Figure 2). An example of the hardware configuration of the feedback device 10 will be explained with reference to Figure 2.

[0031] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a feedback device 10 according to Embodiment 1. The feedback device 10 comprises a processor 11, a memory 12, an input device 13, a display device 14, a communication device 15, and an external interface device 16. Each component of the feedback device 10 is connected via an internal bus 17 to enable data communication.

[0032] The processor 11 is composed of, for example, a Central Processing Unit (hereinafter referred to as "CPU"), a Graphics Processing Unit (hereinafter referred to as "GPU"), a Micro Processing Unit (hereinafter referred to as "MPU"), a Digital Signal Processor (hereinafter referred to as "DSP"), or a Field Programmable Gate Array (hereinafter referred to as "FPGA"). The processor 11 realizes the functions of the feedback device 10 by reading and executing various data and programs stored in the memory 12.

[0033] Memory 12 is a storage area for storing and holding various data and programs. Memory 12 consists of, for example, a non-volatile storage area called Read Only Memory (hereinafter referred to as "ROM"), a Hard Disk Drive (hereinafter referred to as "HDD"), and a volatile storage area called Random Access Memory (hereinafter referred to as "RAM"). RAM is, for example, work memory used during the operation of the feedback device 10. ROM stores and holds, for example, programs for controlling the feedback device 10.

[0034] The input device 13 comprises a keyboard, mouse, touch panel, or other input device. The input device 13 accepts various types of data input through user operation.

[0035] The display device 14 is a device that displays information or images, etc. Examples of the display device 14 include liquid crystal displays or organic electroluminescence (hereinafter referred to as "EL") displays.

[0036] The input device 13 and the display device 14 may be configured as an integrated device. An example of an input device 13 and display device 14 configured as an integrated device is a touch panel display.

[0037] The communication device 15 communicates with external devices such as the warehouse management system 30 and user terminals 20 via a network (not shown) and transmits and receives various data or signals. The communication device 15 may support either wired or wireless communication. The communication method used by the communication device 15 may be, for example, a Wide Area Network (hereinafter referred to as "WAN"), a Local Area Network (hereinafter referred to as "LAN"), a Long Term Evolution (hereinafter referred to as "LTE"), a mobile communication such as 5G, a power line communication, a short-range wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and Bluetooth (registered trademark), or a combination thereof.

[0038] The external interface device 16 is an interface for sending and receiving data with an external device.

[0039] Furthermore, the user terminal 20 and the warehouse management system 30 may also be implemented with the same hardware configuration as the feedback device 10.

[0040] The warehouse management system 30 manages at least work site data for warehouse operations. The warehouse management system 30 may manage work site data for multiple warehouses, not just one. The warehouse management system 30 may include a warehouse management system, which may also be called a Warehouse Management System (hereinafter referred to as "WMS"), or a warehouse execution system (hereinafter referred to as "WES"), or may be configured to include the functions of these systems. Therefore, even if there is data managed only in either the WMS or the WES, the warehouse management system 30 may be able to manage such data.

[0041] The user terminal 20 accepts optimization instructions, indicator settings, and approval condition settings from the user. The user terminal 20 also displays screens to notify the user of information, such as the approval screen for updating work site data. Furthermore, the user terminal 20 accepts permission or rejection for updating work site data by the user.

[0042] [Processing Sequence] Referring to Figure 3, the exchange of data between the devices constituting the feedback system 1 will be explained. Figure 3 is a sequence diagram showing the processing of the feedback system 1 according to Embodiment 1.

[0043] The user terminal 20 accepts instructions for optimization by user operation, the setting of indicators corresponding to warehouse management targets, and the setting of approval conditions that determine whether to allow automatic or user-operated updates of work site data (step S40).

[0044] The user terminal 20 inputs the optimization instructions, indicator settings, and approval condition settings received in step S40 to the feedback device 10 (step S41).

[0045] After the user terminal 20 inputs the optimization instruction, indicator settings, and approval condition settings to the feedback device 10 in step S41, it notifies the user that the optimization has started and that the settings for the indicators and approval conditions have been completed (step S42). For example, the user terminal 20 may display a message indicating that the optimization has started and that the settings for the indicators and approval conditions have been completed.

[0046] If the feedback device 10 receives the optimization instructions, indicator settings, and approval condition settings from the user terminal 20 in step S41, it requests work site data from the warehouse management system 30 (step S43).

[0047] If the warehouse management system 30 receives a request for work site data from the feedback device 10 in step S43, it transmits the work site data to the feedback device 10 (step S44).

[0048] Although not shown in Figure 3, the feedback device 10 uses the current work site data transmitted from the warehouse management system 30 and executed a simulation using the warehouse model. The feedback device 10 also provisionally updates the work site data and executes the simulation. The feedback device 10 then obtains the results of a first simulation using the current (unprovisional) work site data and the results of a second simulation using the provisionally updated work site data. The feedback device 10 then determines whether user approval is required to update the work site data based on the approval conditions accepted in step S41. For the sake of explanation, it is assumed that user approval is required to update the work site data.

[0049] The feedback device 10 sends a request for approval to update the work site data to the user terminal 20 (step S45).

[0050] The user terminal 20 notifies the user of the request for approval to update the work site data, which was sent from the feedback device 10 in step S45 (step S46). Specifically, the user terminal 20 displays, for example, an approval screen for updating the work site data on a display device (not shown) provided in the user terminal 20. At this time, the user terminal 20 may also notify the user of the comparison results between the first and second simulation results, as well as improvement measures, so that the user can confirm the benefits that can be obtained by updating the work site data or proposals for expanding the warehouse's specified resources.

[0051] The user terminal 20 accepts input of approval or rejection of updating work site data by user operation (step S47).

[0052] The user terminal 20 inputs the approval or rejection of the work site data update, which was received in step S47 by user operation, to the feedback device 10 (step S48). For the sake of explanation, let's assume that in step S47, the user input "approved" to the user terminal 20 by user operation. In other words, let's assume that in step S48, "approved" was input to the feedback device 10.

[0053] If the feedback device 10 receives input of approval for updating the work site data in step S48, it updates the work site data managed by the warehouse management system 30 (step S49).

[0054] After updating the work site data in step S49, the feedback device 10 notifies the user terminal 20 that the update of the work site data is complete (step S50).

[0055] If the user terminal 20 receives a notification from the feedback device 10 in step S50 that the update of the work site data has been completed, it notifies the user that the update of the work site data has been completed (step S51). Specifically, for example, the user terminal 20 displays a message indicating that the update of the work site data has been completed on a display device (not shown) provided in the user terminal 20.

[0056] [Processing flow] Next, the processing of the feedback device 10 will be explained with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a flowchart showing the processing of the feedback device 10 according to Embodiment 1. Each process in the flowchart shown in Figure 4 is performed by the cooperation of the processor 11 and memory 12 of the feedback device 10. For the sake of simplicity, the process of step S50 shown in Figure 3 has been omitted.

[0057] The processor 11 receives optimization instructions via the user terminal 20 (step S60).

[0058] The processor 11 accepts the setting of indicators by user operation via the user terminal 20 (step S61).

[0059] The processor 11 accepts the setting of approval conditions by user operation via the user terminal 20 (step S62).

[0060] Steps S60, S61, and S62 may be performed simultaneously, or their order may be changed.

[0061] Although not shown in Figure 4, the processor 11 acquires work site data from the warehouse management system 30.

[0062] The processor 11 determines, based on the work site data acquired from the warehouse management system 30, whether the actual warehouse has achieved the indicator set in step S61, in other words, whether it has met the indicator (step S63). The processor 11 may, for example, perform a first simulation using the warehouse model and the work site data acquired from the warehouse management system 30, and make the determination based on the results of the first simulation.

[0063] If processor 11 determines that the actual warehouse meets the criteria (step S63; YES), it terminates this processing flow. This is because the criteria are already met, and therefore no optimization of the work site data is necessary.

[0064] If the processor 11 determines that the actual warehouse does not meet the criteria (step S63; NO), it optimizes, or provisionally updates, the work site data obtained from the warehouse management system 30 (step S64). For example, the processor 11 provisionally updates the work site data to meet the criteria set in step S61 by repeatedly performing provisional updates of the work site data and simulations using the warehouse model.

[0065] Processor 11 compares the results of a second simulation, performed using optimized (i.e., provisionally updated) work site data to meet the indicators, with the results of a first simulation, performed using the current (unupdated) work site data. It then visualizes the comparison results and derives improvement measures (step S65). Visualization of the comparison results means representing the difference between the results of the first and second simulations, for example, the difference in the distance traveled by a worker performing warehouse tasks, using a graph or text. The visualized comparison results are notified to the user via the user terminal 20, allowing the user to confirm the benefits obtained by updating the work site data.

[0066] The processor 11 determines whether or not approval is required for updating the work site data by user operation, based on the approval conditions accepted in step S62 and the improvement measures derived in step S65 (step S66).

[0067] If the processor 11 determines that user approval is not required to update the work site data (step S66; NO), it updates the work site data managed in the warehouse management system 30 with the provisionally updated work site data (step S69). In this case, the user is not asked for approval to update the work site data, but the user may be notified of the comparison results between the visualized first simulation results and the second simulation results, as well as the improvement measures. Then, the processor 11 terminates this processing flow.

[0068] If the processor 11 determines that user approval is required to update the work site data (step S66; YES), it displays an approval screen for updating the work site data on the user terminal 20 (step S67). At this time, the processor 11 may notify the user of the comparison results between the visualized first simulation results and the second simulation results, as well as the suggested improvements.

[0069] If the processor 11 receives user approval via the user terminal 20 (step S68; YES), it updates the work site data managed in the warehouse management system 30 with the temporarily updated work site data (step S69). Then, the processor 11 terminates this processing flow.

[0070] If the processor 11 receives a denial input via the user terminal 20 (step S68; NO), it terminates this processing flow. In this case, the work site data is not updated.

[0071] [Specific examples of feedback] The feedback device 10 notifies the user of improvement measures, etc., to satisfy the indicators via the user terminal 20; in other words, it provides feedback. An example of feedback based on approval conditions will be explained with reference to Figure 5. Figure 5 is a table diagram showing an example of feedback by the feedback device 10 according to Embodiment 1. Note that Examples 1, 2, and 3 shown in Figure 5 are examples for illustrative purposes only.

[0072] First, let's explain Example 1. Based on a comparison of the results of the first and second simulations, the feedback device 10 calculates that if the provisional update to the work site data—that is, the improvement measure—is adopted, the distance traveled by the worker will be reduced by 20%. Furthermore, this improvement measure involves changing the inventory placement and pick list of items managed in the actual warehouse; in other words, updating the inventory placement and pick list managed in the warehouse management system 30 with the provisionally updated inventory placement and pick list. Moreover, this improvement measure satisfies the indicators set by user operation within the warehouse's prescribed resources. In other words, the changes to the inventory placement and pick list can be handled within the current warehouse resources. In this case, the feedback device 10 automatically updates the work site data. That is, the feedback device 10 updates the work site data without user approval. Therefore, the feedback device 10 does not provide feedback that requests user approval. However, the feedback device 10 may provide the user with feedback on the comparison results between the first and second simulation results, which visualize a 20% reduction in travel distance, improvement measures to achieve a 20% reduction in travel distance, and the fact that the work site data will be automatically updated because the improvement measures can be implemented within the available resources.

[0073] Next, let's explain Example 2. Based on a comparison of the results of the first and second simulations, the feedback device 10 calculates that if the provisional update to the work site data, i.e., the improvement measure, is adopted, the distance traveled by the worker will be reduced by 40%. The improvement measure involves changing the equipment installed in the actual warehouse, the inventory layout of the goods managed in the warehouse, and the pick list. In other words, the improvement measure involves updating the equipment data, inventory layout, and pick list managed in the warehouse management system 30 with the provisionally updated equipment data, inventory layout, and pick list. Furthermore, the improvement measure satisfies the indicator set by user operation when the warehouse's specified resources are expanded. In other words, the changes to the equipment, the changes to the inventory layout of goods, and the changes to the pick list cannot be handled with the current warehouse resources. In this case, the feedback device 10 determines that user approval is required to update the work site data. In this case, the feedback device 10 provides the user with feedback on the comparison results between the first and second simulation results, which visualize a 40% reduction in travel distance; improvement measures to achieve the 40% reduction in travel distance; and the fact that these improvement measures cannot be implemented with current resources, and therefore user approval is required to update the work site data.

[0074] Next, let's explain Example 3. Based on a comparison of the results of the first and second simulations, the feedback device 10 calculates that if the provisional update to the work site data, i.e., the improvement measure, is adopted, labor costs will be reduced by 10%. The improvement measure involves changing the inventory placement of goods, the pick list, and the number of workers managed in the actual warehouse. In other words, the improvement measure involves updating the inventory placement, pick list, and personnel data managed in the warehouse management system 30 with the provisionally updated inventory placement, pick list, and personnel data. Furthermore, the improvement measure satisfies the indicators set by user operation using the warehouse's standard resources. However, the time required for the warehouse work when the improvement measure is adopted is one hour longer than the time required when the improvement measure is not adopted. In other words, while the changes to the inventory placement of goods, the pick list, and the number of workers can be handled within the current warehouse resources, these changes increase the time required for the work. In this case, the feedback device 10 determines that user approval is required to update the work site data. In this case, the feedback device 10 provides the user with feedback on the comparison results between the first and second simulation results, which visualize a 10% reduction in labor costs; the improvement measures to achieve the 10% reduction in labor costs; and the fact that the adoption of these improvement measures can be handled with current resources, but will increase the time required for warehouse work by one hour, requiring user approval to update the work site data. While this example shows the feedback device 10 determining that user approval is required because the adoption of the improvement measures can be handled with current warehouse resources but will increase the work time by one hour, it is not limited to one hour; a predetermined time can be set by the user or others.

[0075] [Example of updating work site data] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of updating work site data according to Embodiment 1. Work site data is managed by the warehouse management system 30. We will explain focusing on the pick list and personnel data among the work site data. The pick list before the update shows that the worker picks items X, Y, and Z in that order. The personnel data before the update shows that the warehouse workers are worker A and worker B. In the example in Figure 6, when the work site data is updated, the pick list and personnel data are rewritten as follows. That is, the pick list after the update shows that the worker picks items X, Z, and Y in that order. The personnel data after the update shows that the warehouse workers are worker A, worker B, and worker C.

[0076] In the above-described Embodiment 1, the user received various types of feedback from the feedback device 10 via the user terminal 20. In Embodiment 1, for example, the user confirmed improvement measures for achieving indicators, whether approval was required for updating work site data, etc., using a display device (not shown) provided on the user terminal 20. However, the system is not limited to this, and the user may receive various types of feedback from the display device 14 of the feedback device 10. Furthermore, the user may use the input device 13 of the feedback device 10 to input for approval of updating work site data, and to input for optimization instructions, indicator settings, and approval conditions.

[0077] Furthermore, the feedback device 10 may repeatedly perform the following actions: provisionally updating the work site data to satisfy the indicator, providing approval conditions, the results of a first simulation of warehouse operations using the current (unupdated) work site data, and notifying the user of a method for updating the work site data based on the results of a second simulation of the operations using the provisionally updated work site data. This is because there may be more than one improvement measure that satisfies the indicator. For example, to satisfy the indicator of reducing the man-hours of a certain operation by 20%, possible improvement measures include changing the inventory placement of goods, changing the pick list, combining these measures, implementing improvements that can be done with current resources, and implementing improvements that can be done by expanding current resources. For example, even if the user adopts an improvement measure, i.e., approves the update of the work site data, the feedback device 10 may continue to repeatedly perform provisional updates of the work site data, simulations using the warehouse model, and provide feedback to the user.

[0078] Furthermore, the improvement measures provided to the user may include recommendations from, for example, equipment companies or staffing agencies. In this case, the feedback device 10 may calculate the cost-effectiveness of utilizing equipment companies or staffing agencies and provide the user with the calculation results.

[0079] (Modified version of Embodiment 1) The following modified embodiment of Embodiment 1 describes a case where indicators related to the shipping plan are set. In describing the modified embodiment of Embodiment 1, explanations that are the same as those in Embodiment 1 above will be simplified or omitted, and the explanation will focus on the differences. The modified embodiment of Embodiment 1 is realized by the feedback system 1 shown in Figure 1.

[0080] [Processing Sequence] First, with reference to Figure 7, the exchange of data between the devices constituting the feedback system 1 will be explained. Figure 7 is a sequence diagram showing the processing of the feedback system 1 according to a modified example of Embodiment 1.

[0081] The user terminal 20 accepts user-initiated optimization instructions, the setting of indicators corresponding to warehouse management targets, and the setting of approval conditions that determine whether to allow automatic or user-initiated updates of work site data (step S40A). In a modified version of Embodiment 1, an acceptable range for work progress for the shipping plan is set as an indicator. As will be described in detail later, in a modified version of Embodiment 1, the work progress for the shipping plan is expressed as one of the following based on the simulation results: "overdue," "on track," "caution," "slightly behind schedule," "delayed," or "urgent." In step S40A, the acceptable range for these work progresses is set by user operation.

[0082] The user terminal 20 inputs the optimization instructions, indicator settings, and approval condition settings received in step S40A to the feedback device 10 (step S41A).

[0083] After the user terminal 20 inputs the optimization instruction, indicator settings, and approval condition settings to the feedback device 10 in step S41A, it notifies the user that the optimization has started and that the settings for the indicators and approval conditions have been completed (step S42A). For example, the user terminal 20 may display a message indicating that the optimization has started and that the settings for the indicators and approval conditions have been completed.

[0084] When the feedback device 10 receives the optimization instructions, indicator settings, and approval condition settings input from the user terminal 20 in step S41A, it requests work site data from the warehouse management system 30 (step S43A). The work site data requested in step S43A includes at least the planned shipping time by consignor destination, remaining task information, personnel data, and task priority. However, the work site data requested in step S43A and transmitted in step S44A described below is not limited to these, and further data necessary for, for example, running a simulation, may be requested.

[0085] The Shipper Destination-Specific Shipping Schedule shows the shipping schedule for each shipper and destination. Specific examples of destinations will be discussed later. The Remaining Task Information shows the remaining tasks, i.e., incomplete tasks, that make up the work for the shipping schedule. Task Priority indicates the priority of the task. For example, if there are multiple tasks, it may be set so that the task with the highest priority is processed first.

[0086] If the warehouse management system 30 receives a request for work site data from the feedback device 10 in step S43A, it transmits the work site data to the feedback device 10 (step S44A).

[0087] Although not shown in Figure 7, the feedback device 10 uses the current work site data transmitted from the warehouse management system 30 and runs a simulation using the warehouse model. The feedback device 10 also provisionally updates the work site data and runs the simulation. The feedback device 10 then obtains the results of a first simulation using the current (i.e., unprovisionally updated) work site data and the results of a second simulation using the provisionally updated work site data. In a modified version of Embodiment 1, the feedback device 10 obtains the work progress for shipping planning through simulation. More specifically, the feedback device 10 obtains the predicted shipping time for a certain shipper to a certain direction through a first simulation using the current work site data. As will be described in detail with reference to Figure 9, this allows the feedback device 10 to determine the work progress for shipping planning. The feedback device 10 also obtains the predicted shipping time for a certain shipper to a certain direction through a second simulation using the provisionally updated work site data. The feedback device 10 then determines the work progress for shipping planning when the work site data is updated.

[0088] Then, the feedback device 10 determines whether user approval is required to update the work site data, based on the approval conditions accepted in step S41A. For the sake of explanation, let's assume that user approval is required to update the work site data.

[0089] The feedback device 10 sends a request for approval to update the work site data to the user terminal 20 (step S45A). In the modified embodiment of the first embodiment, the work site data to be updated is described as task priority or personnel data. However, the work site data to be updated is not limited to these.

[0090] The user terminal 20 notifies the user of the request for approval to update the work site data, which was sent from the feedback device 10 in step S45A (step S46A). Specifically, the user terminal 20 displays, for example, an approval screen for updating the work site data on a display device (not shown) provided on the user terminal 20. At this time, the user terminal 20 may also notify the user of the comparison results between the first and second simulation results, as well as improvement measures, so that the user can confirm the benefits that can be obtained by updating the work site data or proposals for expanding the warehouse's specified resources. A specific example of visualizing the comparison results between the first and second simulation results will be described later with reference to Figure 8. The specific content of the feedback will also be described later with reference to Figure 10.

[0091] The user terminal 20 accepts input of approval or rejection of updating work site data by user operation (step S47A).

[0092] The user terminal 20 inputs the approval or rejection of the work site data update, which was received in step S47A and entered by the user, to the feedback device 10 (step S48A). For the sake of explanation, let's assume that in step S47A, the user input "approved" to the user terminal 20 by the user. In other words, let's assume that in step S48A, "approved" was input to the feedback device 10.

[0093] If the feedback device 10 receives input of approval for updating the work site data in step S48A, it updates the work site data managed by the warehouse management system 30 (step S49A).

[0094] After updating the work site data in step S49A, the feedback device 10 notifies the user terminal 20 that the update of the work site data is complete (step S50A).

[0095] If the user terminal 20 receives a notification from the feedback device 10 in step S50A that the update of the work site data has been completed, it notifies the user that the update of the work site data has been completed (step S51A). Specifically, for example, the user terminal 20 may display a message indicating that the update of the work site data has been completed on a display device (not shown) provided in the user terminal 20.

[0096] [Example of visualizing the comparison of simulation results] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a comparison of simulation results related to a modified version of Embodiment 1. Figure 8 shows two example screens displayed on the user terminal 20.

[0097] First, let's explain Example 1. In Example 1, the user terminal 20 screen displays the work progress for the shipping plan for shipper P and the work progress for the shipping plan for shipper Q, separated by region. In this embodiment, a region refers to one of the following in Japan: "Tohoku," "Kanto," "Hokuriku," "Kyushu," "Tokai," and "Kinki."

[0098] The displayed work progress for each shipper and destination includes a "current forecast" calculated by processor 11 based on the predicted shipping time (hereinafter referred to as "SIM predicted time") obtained by a simulation using current (i.e., not provisionally updated) work site data. In addition, the displayed work progress includes a "post-recommendation forecast" calculated by processor 11 based on the predicted shipping time (hereinafter referred to as "recommendation measure forecast time") obtained by a simulation using provisionally updated work site data.

[0099] The current progress forecast for work is determined based on the planned shipping times for each consignor region obtained from the warehouse management system 30 and the SIM forecast time. For example, the current progress forecast for consignor P is "on track" for the Tohoku region, "urgent" for the Kanto region, "delayed" for the Hokuriku region, "delayed" for the Kyushu region, "slightly delayed" for the Tokai region, and "slightly delayed" for the Kinki region.

[0100] The post-recommendation work progress forecast is determined based on the planned shipping times for each consignor region obtained from the warehouse management system 30 and the recommended implementation time. For example, the post-recommendation work progress forecast for consignor P is "on track," "caution" for the Tohoku region, "caution" for the Kanto region, "caution" for the Hokuriku region, "caution" for the Kyushu region, "slightly delayed" for the Tokai region, and "slightly delayed" for the Kinki region. Applying the recommendation means that the content of the provisional update of the work site data is approved. Therefore, for example, if user approval is required to update the work site data, the user can check the post-recommendation forecast displayed on the screen of the user terminal 20 to understand how the work progress will change when the work site data is updated. The user can then decide whether or not to update the work site data.

[0101] As described above, work progress is classified into one of the following categories: "overdue," "on track," "caution," "slightly behind schedule," "delayed," and "urgent." In this embodiment, we will explain an example in which, when work progress includes "delayed" or "urgent," updating the work site data will result in a state where neither "delayed" nor "urgent" is included in the work progress. In other words, we will explain an example in which the acceptable range of work progress includes "overdue," "on track," "caution," and "slightly behind schedule." The method of classifying work progress will be described later with reference to Figure 9.

[0102] The processor 11 can create a time schedule based on the planned shipping times for each consignor destination, the SIM predicted times, and the predicted times for recommended measures, and display it on the screen of the user terminal 20. In Example 1 shown in Figure 8, time schedules 100 and 101 are displayed on the screen of the user terminal 20. Time schedule 100 shows the planned shipping times, SIM predicted times, and predicted times for recommended measures for each destination in the shipping plan for consignor P. Time schedule 101 shows the planned shipping times, SIM predicted times, and predicted times for recommended measures for each destination in the shipping plan for consignor Q. In addition, time schedules 100 and 101 show the current time and the time axis. As a result, a user who checks the screen of the user terminal 20 can intuitively understand what the shipping time (SIM predicted time) will be if the work site data is not updated, and what the shipping time (predicted time for recommended measures) will be if the work site data is updated.

[0103] Example 1 shows that when the work site data is updated, the work progress for the shipping plan for shipper P changes from "urgent" to "caution" for the Kanto region, from "delayed" to "caution" for the Hokuriku region, and from "delayed" to "caution" for the Kyushu region. Also, Example 1 shows that when the work site data is updated, the work progress for the shipping plan for shipper Q changes from "overdue" to "on track" for the Tohoku region, and from "overdue" to "on track" for the Kanto region. In other words, Example 1 shows that when the work site data is updated, neither the work progress for the shipping plan for shipper P nor the work progress for the shipping plan for shipper Q will contain "urgent" or "delayed".

[0104] In Example 1, user approval is not required. Even without user approval, the display shown on the user terminal 20 screen, as in Example 1, allows the user to see what effects they can expect from updating the work site data.

[0105] In Example 2, similar to Example 1, the user terminal 20 screen displays the current progress forecast and the post-recommendation forecast for each direction of the shipping plan for shipper P and shipper Q. A time schedule 102 showing the planned shipping times, SIM predicted times, and recommended action predicted times for each direction in the shipping plan for shipper P is also displayed. Furthermore, a time schedule 103 showing the planned shipping times, SIM predicted times, and recommended action predicted times for each direction in the shipping plan for shipper Q is also displayed.

[0106] In Example 2, recommendation display unit 104, recommendation display unit 105, and approval button 106 are also displayed. Recommendation display unit 104 and recommendation display unit 105 indicate how to update the work site data, respectively. Recommendation display unit 104 and recommendation display unit 105 also have checkboxes. When a checkbox is checked by the user, the content displayed in the recommendation display unit containing that checkbox is reflected in the post-recommendation forecast and time schedule for shipper P and shipper Q, respectively. A detailed explanation follows.

[0107] The recommendation display unit 104 shows the updated task priority. Specifically, the recommendation display unit 104 indicates that the priority of tasks for shipping operations to the Kanto, Hokuriku, and Kyushu regions for shipper P will be higher than the priority of tasks for shipping operations to the Tohoku and Kanto regions for shipper Q. In Example 2, the checkbox on the recommendation display unit 104 is checked. Therefore, the post-recommendation forecast and time schedule shown in Example 2 are the post-recommendation forecast and time schedule when the above task priority update is performed due to the update of the work site data.

[0108] The recommendation display unit 105 shows the updates to the personnel data. Specifically, the recommendation display unit 105 indicates that a new worker should be replaced with a veteran worker. However, in Example 2, the checkbox in the recommendation display unit 105 is not checked. Therefore, if the user checks the checkbox in the recommendation display unit 105, the post-recommendation forecast and time schedule shown in Example 2 will reflect the case where not only the task priority but also the personnel data has been updated.

[0109] In Example 2, as described above, personnel data may be updated. For the sake of explanation, let's assume that resource expansion is required in this case. In other words, in this case, approval by the user terminal 20 is required. The user can approve the update of the work site data via the user terminal 20 using the approval button 106.

[0110] Figure 9 is a table diagram illustrating an example of comparing simulation results related to a modified version of Embodiment 1. Referring to Figure 9, the classification method of work progress, which can be expressed as "overdue," "on track," "caution," "slightly delayed," "delayed," or "urgent," will be explained. In Figure 9, the planned shipping time is abbreviated as "planned time."

[0111] Processor 11 determines that the work progress is "overdue" if the following equation (1) is satisfied.

[0112]

number

[0113] Processor 11 determines that the work progress is "on track" if the following equation (2) is satisfied.

[0114]

number

[0115] Processor 11 determines that the work progress is "Caution" if the following equation (3) is satisfied.

[0116]

number

[0117] Processor 11 determines that the work progress is "slightly delayed" if both equations (4) and (5) below are satisfied.

[0118]

number

[0119]

number

[0120] Processor 11 determines that the work progress is "delayed" if both equations (6) and (7) below are satisfied.

[0121]

number

[0122]

number

[0123] Processor 11 determines that the work progress is "urgent" if both equations (8) and (9) below are satisfied.

[0124]

number

[0125]

number

[0126] Furthermore, when the processor 11 seeks a prediction of work progress after applying recommendations, the SIM prediction time in equations (1), (2), (3), (5), (7), and (9) above may be replaced with the recommendation measure prediction time. In this way, the processor 11 can determine the work progress based on the current time, the planned shipping time, and the SIM prediction time (or the recommendation measure prediction time). The processor 11 can then classify the work progress into one of the following categories: "overdue," "on track," "caution," "slightly behind schedule," "delayed," or "urgent."

[0127] [Specific examples of feedback] The feedback device 10 notifies the user of improvement measures, etc., to satisfy the indicators via the user terminal 20; in other words, it provides feedback. An example of feedback based on approval conditions will be explained with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a table diagram showing an example of feedback by the feedback device 10 according to a modified example of Embodiment 1. The feedback may also be provided to the user as shown in the example screen of the user terminal 20 in Figure 8.

[0128] First, let's explain Example 1. Based on the comparison results of the first and second simulations, the feedback device 10 calculates that if the provisional update of the work site data, i.e., the improvement measures, are adopted, the work progress for the shipping plan for shipper P will change from "urgent" to "caution" for the Kanto region, from "delayed" to "caution" for the Hokuriku region, and from "delayed" to "caution" for the Kyushu region. The feedback device 10 further calculates that the work progress for the shipping plan for shipper Q will change from "overdue" to "on track" for the Tohoku region, and from "overdue" to "on track" for the Kanto region.

[0129] Furthermore, the improvement measure in Example 1 is to update the task priority managed in the warehouse management system 30 with the provisionally updated task priority. In addition, this improvement measure satisfies the indicator set by user operation using the warehouse's prescribed resources. In other words, the change in task priority can be handled within the current warehouse resources. In this case, the feedback device 10 automatically updates the work site data (task priority), in other words, without user approval. Therefore, the feedback device 10 does not provide feedback that requests user approval. However, the feedback device 10 may visualize the comparison results between the first simulation result and the second simulation result (see, for example, Example 1 shown in Figure 8) and provide feedback to the user on the content of the improvement measure and that the work site data will be automatically updated because the improvement measure can be handled within the resources.

[0130] Next, let's explain Example 2. Based on the comparison results of the first simulation and the second simulation, the feedback device 10 calculates that if the provisional update of the work site data, i.e., the improvement measures, are adopted, the work progress for the shipping plan for shipper P will change from "urgent" to "on track" in the Kanto region, from "delayed" to "on track" in the Hokuriku region, and from "delayed" to "on track" in the Kyushu region. The feedback device 10 further calculates that the work progress for the shipping plan for shipper Q will change from "overdue" to "on track" in the Tohoku region, and from "overdue" to "on track" in the Kanto region.

[0131] Furthermore, the improvement measure in Example 2 is to update the task priority and personnel data managed in the warehouse management system 30 with the provisionally updated task priority and personnel data. In addition, this improvement measure satisfies the indicator set by user operation when the warehouse's prescribed resources are expanded. In other words, updating the work site data (task priority and personnel data) cannot be handled with the current warehouse resources. In this case, the feedback device 10 determines that user approval is required to update the work site data. In this case, the feedback device 10 may visualize the comparison result between the first simulation result and the second simulation result (see, for example, Example 2 shown in Figure 8) and provide feedback to the user on the improvement measure and the fact that user approval is required to update the work site data because the improvement measure cannot be handled with the current resources.

[0132] [Example of updating work site data] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of updating work site data according to a modified example of Embodiment 1. Work site data is managed by the warehouse management system 30. In the example in Figure 11, an example is described in which task priority and personnel data from the work site data are updated. First, let's focus on task priority. Before updating the work site data, the priority of tasks constituting work for the Kanto region in the shipping plan for shipper P is equal to the priority of tasks constituting work for the Tohoku region in the shipping plan for shipper Q. After updating the work site data, the priority of tasks constituting work for the Kanto, Hokuriku, and Kyushu regions in the shipping plan for shipper P becomes higher than the priority of tasks constituting work for the Tohoku and Kanto regions in the shipping plan for shipper Q.

[0133] Next, let's focus on the personnel data. Before updating the work site data, the personnel data shows that the warehouse workers are worker A and worker B. After updating the work site data, the personnel data shows that the warehouse workers are worker A and worker C. For example, if worker B is a new worker and worker C is a veteran worker, this update will replace the new worker with the veteran worker.

[0134] (Summary of Embodiment 1) The above description of Embodiment 1 discloses at least the following technologies. Note that the components etc. in Embodiment 1 are examples, but are not limited to these.

[0135] (Technology 1) The feedback method involves communicating with a warehouse management system that manages work site data for warehouse operations, accepting the setting of warehouse indicators and approval conditions that determine whether to allow automatic or user-operated updates of work site data, retrieving work site data from the warehouse management system, running a simulation to calculate the first simulation result of the work using the work site data obtained from the warehouse management system, provisionally updating the work site data and running a simulation to calculate the second simulation result to satisfy the indicators, and changing the method of updating the work site data based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result of the work, and the second simulation result of the work.

[0136] This initiates a first simulation of warehouse operations using unupdated work site data. The work site data is then provisionally updated to meet the set indicators. A second simulation of warehouse operations is then performed using the provisionally updated work site data. Based on the results of the first and second simulations, and the set approval conditions, the method for updating the work site data to meet the indicators is modified. If user approval is required for updating the work site data, the update method is provided as feedback to the user. This allows warehouse managers and other users to review the feedback and make decisions as needed to ensure the indicators are met.

[0137] (Technology 2) In the feedback method described in Technology 1, the feedback method, based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result, and the second simulation result, notifies the user terminal (e.g., user terminal 20) of the comparison result between the first and second simulation results and improvement measures based on the indicators if user approval is required, and updates the work site data if user approval is obtained.

[0138] This allows users, such as warehouse managers, to review improvement measures to meet the indicators and then decide whether or not to update the work site data.

[0139] (Technology 3) In the feedback method described in Technology 1 or 2, the feedback method automatically updates the work site data based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result, and the second simulation result, if user approval is not required.

[0140] This means that work site data is automatically updated when user approval from warehouse managers or other users is not required, allowing for efficient updating of work site data to meet performance indicators.

[0141] (Technology 4) In the feedback method described in Technology 2, the approval condition is set so that if the improvement measures meet the indicators using specified resources, including warehouse equipment and personnel, user approval is not required.

[0142] This allows improvement measures to be adopted without user approval, such as warehouse managers, when the metrics can be met with current resources, thus enabling efficient improvements to meet the metrics.

[0143] (Technology 5) In the feedback method described in Technique 2 or 4, the approval condition is set to require user approval if the improvement measures meet the indicator by expanding specified resources, including warehouse equipment and personnel.

[0144] This allows users, such as warehouse managers, to make decisions about whether the metrics can be met by expanding current resources.

[0145] (Technology 6) In the feedback method described in any one of Techniques 2, 4, or 5, the approval condition is set to require user approval if the improvement measure meets the indicator using specified resources, including warehouse equipment and personnel, and the time required for the work exceeds a specified time compared to not adopting the improvement measure.

[0146] This allows users, such as warehouse managers, to make decisions when it is possible to meet the metrics with current resources, but the time required for the work would increase.

[0147] (Technology 7) In the feedback method described in any one of Techniques 1 to 6, the work includes picking goods in a warehouse, and the work site data includes the inventory placement of goods, an operation list of the work in the warehouse including a pick list, warehouse equipment data, and personnel data.

[0148] This allows users, such as warehouse managers, to run simulations of picking operations. Furthermore, users can provisionally update and update inventory placement, operational lists of warehouse operations including pick lists, warehouse equipment data, and personnel data to achieve performance targets.

[0149] (Technology 8) In the feedback methods described in any one of Techniques 1 through 7, the metrics include work effort and warehouse throughput.

[0150] This allows users, such as warehouse managers, to set metrics related to, for example, the man-hours required for a task or the throughput of the warehouse.

[0151] (Technology 9) In the feedback method described in any one of Techniques 1 to 8, the feedback method repeatedly performs the following steps: provisionally updating the work site data to satisfy the indicators, and then modifying the method of updating the work site data based on the approval conditions, the results of a first simulation of the work using the work site data that has not been provisionally updated, and the results of a second simulation of the work using the work site data after the provisional update.

[0152] This allows users, such as warehouse managers, to, for example, identify multiple improvement measures that meet a certain metric.

[0153] (Technology 10) In the feedback method described in any one of Techniques 1 to 9, the distance traveled by a worker performing work based on work site data is shorter when the work site data is provisionally updated compared to when the work site data is not provisionally updated.

[0154] This allows the warehouse management system to update the work site data with the provisionally updated work site data, thereby reducing the distance workers have to travel when performing tasks in the actual warehouse. This can, for example, lead to a reduction in the amount of work required.

[0155] (Technology 11) In the feedback method described in any one of Techniques 1 through 10, the work includes shipper-by-shipper and destination-by-destination shipping operations for planning the shipment of goods from the warehouse, and the work site data includes shipper-by-shipper and destination-by-destination shipping planning times, and the respective priorities of the multiple tasks that make up the shipping operation.

[0156] This allows the feedback method to run simulations of shipping operations. Furthermore, users can provisionally update and then update the priorities of the various tasks that make up the shipping operation in order to achieve metrics.

[0157] (Technology 12) In the feedback method described in Technical 11, the indicators include the acceptable range of work progress for shipping operations.

[0158] This allows users, such as warehouse managers, to set metrics related to warehouse shipping plans, for example. Furthermore, by updating on-site data to meet these metrics, it may be possible to avoid significant delays in shipping operations, for example.

[0159] (Technology 13) The feedback device (e.g., feedback device 10) comprises a processor (e.g., processor 11) and memory (e.g., memory 12). The processor and memory cooperate to communicate with a warehouse management system that manages at least work site data for warehouse operations. The feedback device accepts the setting of warehouse indicators and the setting of approval conditions that determine whether to allow automatic or user-operated updates of work site data. The feedback device acquires work site data from the warehouse management system, executes a simulation to calculate a first simulation result of the work using the work site data acquired from the warehouse management system, provisionally updates the work site data, executes a simulation to calculate a second simulation result to satisfy the indicators, and changes the method of updating the work site data based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result of the work, and the second simulation result of the work.

[0160] As a result, the feedback device can achieve the same effect as in Technology 1.

[0161] (Technology 14) The program causes a computing device (e.g., feedback device 10) to communicate with a warehouse management system that manages at least work site data for warehouse operations, to accept the setting of warehouse indicators and approval conditions that determine whether to allow automatic or user-operated updates of work site data, to acquire work site data from the warehouse management system, to execute a simulation to calculate the first simulation result of the work using the work site data acquired from the warehouse management system, to execute a simulation to provisionally update the work site data and calculate the second simulation result to satisfy the indicators, and to change the method of updating the work site data based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result of the work, and the second simulation result of the work.

[0162] This allows the program to achieve the same effect as Technique 1.

[0163] The functions of the above-described embodiment can also be realized by supplying programs and applications for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiment to a system or device using a network or storage medium, and by having one or more processors in the computer of that system or device read and execute the programs.

[0164] Furthermore, the functions of the above-described embodiment may be implemented by a circuit that implements one or more functions (for example, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (hereinafter referred to as "ASIC") or an FPGA).

[0165] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that this disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications, alterations, substitutions, additions, deletions, and equivalents can be conceived within the scope of the claims, and these are also understood to fall within the technical scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the components of the embodiments described above can be combined in any way without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Industrial applicability]

[0166] This disclosure is useful as a feedback method, feedback device, and program. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0167] 1. Feedback System 10 Feedback device 11 processors 12 memory 13 Input device 14 Display device 15. Communication equipment 16 External Interface Device 17 Internal bus 20 User Terminals 30 Warehouse Management Systems

Claims

1. It communicates with a warehouse management system that manages at least the on-site work data for warehouse operations, The system accepts the setting of indicators for the aforementioned warehouse and the setting of approval conditions that determine whether or not to allow automatic or user-operated updates of the aforementioned work site data. The work site data is obtained from the warehouse management system. A simulation is performed to calculate the first simulation result of the work using the work site data obtained from the warehouse management system, and a simulation is performed to calculate the second simulation result by provisionally updating the work site data and satisfying the indicators. Based on the aforementioned approval conditions, the first simulation results of the work, and the second simulation results of the work, the method for updating the work site data is changed. Feedback methods.

2. If user operation is required based on the approval conditions, the first simulation result, and the second simulation result, the user terminal is notified of the comparison result between the first simulation result and the second simulation result, and the improvement measures based on the indicators. If approval is obtained through the user operation described above, the work site data will be updated. The feedback method according to claim 1.

3. Based on the approval conditions, the first simulation results, and the second simulation results, if user approval is not required, the work site data is automatically updated. The feedback method according to claim 1.

4. The approval conditions stipulate that if the improvement measures meet the indicators using specified resources, including the warehouse equipment and personnel, user approval is not required. The feedback method according to claim 2.

5. The approval conditions stipulate that if the improvement measures satisfy the indicator by expanding the specified resources, including the warehouse equipment and personnel, user approval is required. The feedback method according to claim 2.

6. The approval conditions stipulate that if the improvement measure satisfies the indicator using specified resources, including the warehouse equipment and personnel, and the time required for the work exceeds a predetermined time compared to not adopting the improvement measure, then user approval is required. The feedback method according to claim 2.

7. The aforementioned work includes picking items in the warehouse, The aforementioned work site data includes the inventory placement of the items, an operation list of the work in the warehouse including a pick list, equipment data and personnel data in the warehouse. The feedback method according to claim 1.

8. The aforementioned indicators include the man-hours of the work and the throughput of the warehouse, The feedback method according to claim 1.

9. A provisional update of the work site data that satisfies the aforementioned indicators, The process involves repeatedly changing the method for updating the work site data based on the aforementioned approval conditions, the first simulation result of the work using the work site data that has not been provisionally updated, and the second simulation result of the work using the work site data after the provisional update. The feedback method according to claim 1.

10. Based on the aforementioned work site data, the distance traveled by the worker performing the work becomes shorter when the work site data is provisionally updated compared to the distance traveled when the work site data is not provisionally updated. The feedback method according to claim 1.

11. The aforementioned work includes shipping operations for each consignor and each destination for the purpose of planning the shipment of goods from the warehouse, The aforementioned work site data includes the planned shipping time for each consignor and each destination, and the priority of each of the multiple tasks that constitute the shipping operation. The feedback method according to claim 1.

12. The aforementioned indicator includes the acceptable range for the progress of the shipping operation, The feedback method according to claim 11.

13. Equipped with a processor and memory, The processor and the memory cooperate, It communicates with a warehouse management system that manages at least the on-site work data for warehouse operations, The system accepts the setting of indicators for the aforementioned warehouse and the setting of approval conditions that determine whether or not to allow automatic or user-operated updates of the aforementioned work site data. The work site data is obtained from the warehouse management system. A simulation is performed to calculate the first simulation result of the work using the work site data obtained from the warehouse management system, and a simulation is performed to calculate the second simulation result by provisionally updating the work site data and satisfying the indicators. Based on the aforementioned approval conditions, the first simulation results of the work, and the second simulation results of the work, the method for updating the work site data is changed. Feedback device.

14. In the computing unit, It communicates with a warehouse management system that manages at least the work site data for warehouse operations, The system accepts the setting of indicators for the aforementioned warehouse and the setting of approval conditions that determine whether or not to allow automatic or user-operated updates of the aforementioned work site data. The warehouse management system is used to obtain the work site data. The simulation is performed to calculate the first simulation result of the work using the work site data obtained from the warehouse management system, and the simulation is performed to calculate the second simulation result by provisionally updating the work site data and satisfying the indicators. Based on the aforementioned approval conditions, the first simulation results of the work, and the second simulation results of the work, the method for updating the work site data is changed. program.

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