Distribution control system, distribution control method, and program

Abstract

To provide a delivery control system that can appropriately deliver advertisements to workers. [Solution] The distribution control system according to this disclosure comprises: a worker attribute acquisition unit that acquires worker attributes indicating the attributes of a worker; a work status acquisition unit that acquires the work status of a worker; an advertisement determination unit that determines the advertisement to be delivered to the worker based on the worker attributes and work status; and a distribution control unit that controls the delivery of the advertisement.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a distribution control system, a distribution control method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] There is known a technique for distributing advertisements to workers working in a predetermined work environment. As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a cooperation management server that outputs advertisement information for promoting the transfer or lending of one or more materials used in agricultural work when a search request for know-how related to agricultural work is received.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] For example, when distributing advertisements to workers in a logistics warehouse, the advertisement distribution system needs to select advertisements that the workers are interested in and distribute them at a timing that does not interfere with the work.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a distribution control system, a distribution control method, and a program capable of appropriately distributing advertisements to workers in view of the above-described problems.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The distribution control system according to the present disclosure includes a worker attribute acquisition unit that acquires a worker attribute indicating the attribute of a worker, a work status acquisition unit that acquires the work status of the worker, an advertisement determination unit that determines an advertisement to be distributed to the worker based on the worker attribute and the work status The system comprises a distribution control unit that controls the distribution of the aforementioned advertisements.

[0007] The distribution control method relating to this disclosure is: A worker attribute acquisition step to acquire worker attributes that indicate the attributes of the worker, A work status acquisition step to acquire the work status of the aforementioned worker, An advertising decision step in which an advertisement to deliver to the worker is determined based on the worker's attributes and work status, The method includes a delivery control step that controls the delivery of the aforementioned advertisement.

[0008] The program related to this disclosure is A worker attribute acquisition step to acquire worker attributes that indicate the attributes of the worker, A work status acquisition step to acquire the work status of the aforementioned worker, An advertising decision step in which an advertisement to deliver to the worker is determined based on the worker's attributes and work status, The system involves a delivery control step that controls the delivery of the aforementioned advertisements, and having a computer perform this step. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The distribution control system, distribution control method, and program described herein can appropriately distribute advertisements to operators. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0010] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the distribution control system relating to this disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a flowchart showing the processing flow of the distribution control system related to this disclosure. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the advertising delivery system related to this disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows an example of the worker attribute database related to this disclosure. [Figure 5]FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a schedule DB according to the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a progress status DB according to the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the distribution control device according to the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a computer that realizes the distribution control system and the like according to the present disclosure.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are denoted by the same reference numerals. For the sake of clarity of explanation, duplicate explanations are omitted as necessary.

[0012] <Embodiment 1> (Distribution Control System 100) FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a distribution control system 100 according to the present disclosure. The distribution control system 100 includes an operator attribute acquisition unit 101, a work status acquisition unit 102, an advertisement determination unit 103, and a distribution control unit 104. The operator attribute acquisition unit 101 acquires an operator attribute indicating the attributes of an operator. The work status acquisition unit 102 acquires the work status of the operator. The advertisement determination unit 103 determines an advertisement to be distributed to the operator based on the operator attribute and the work status. The distribution control unit 104 controls the distribution of the advertisement.

[0013] The distribution control system 100 includes a processor, a memory, and a storage device as components not shown in the figure. A computer program implementing the processing according to the present disclosure is stored in the storage device. The processor can read the computer program from the storage device into the memory and execute the computer program. Thereby, the processor realizes the functions of the operator attribute acquisition unit 101, the work status acquisition unit 102, the advertisement determination unit 103, and the distribution control unit 104.

[0014] Alternatively, the worker attribute acquisition unit 101, the work status acquisition unit 102, the advertisement determination unit 103, and the distribution control unit 104 may each be implemented by dedicated hardware. Also, some or all of each component may be implemented by general-purpose or dedicated circuitry, a processor, etc., or a combination thereof. These may be constituted by a single chip, or may be constituted by a plurality of chips connected via a bus. Some or all of each component may be implemented by a combination of the above-described circuitry, etc. and a program.

[0015] (Processing of the distribution control system 100) FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the distribution control system 100. First, the worker attribute acquisition unit 101 acquires the worker attribute (S1). Next, the work status acquisition unit 102 acquires the work status of the worker (S2). Subsequently, the advertisement determination unit ********** determines an advertisement to be distributed to the worker based on the worker attribute and the work status (S3). Then, the distribution control unit 104 controls the distribution of the advertisement (S4).

[0016] As described above, according to the distribution control system 100 according to the present disclosure, an advertisement to be distributed to a worker is determined based on the worker attribute and the work status, and the distribution of the advertisement is controlled, so that the advertisement can be appropriately distributed to the worker.

[0017] <Embodiment 2> Subsequently, Embodiment 2 will be described. Embodiment 2 is a specific example of Embodiment 1 described above. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the advertisement distribution system 10 according to the present disclosure.

[0018] (Advertisement distribution system 10) The advertising distribution system 10 comprises a distribution control device 1, a warehouse management device 2, an advertising output device 3, and a reward management device 4. The distribution control device 1, warehouse management device 2, advertising output device 3, and reward management device 4 communicate with each other via a network N. The network N includes, for example, an internet connection or a wireless communication network, but the type of communication is not limited to these.

[0019] The advertising distribution system 10 is a system that distributes advertisements to workers performing tasks in a designated work environment. The work environment is the space in which workers perform their designated tasks. The work environment may be, for example, a warehouse, factory, distribution center, or office, but is not limited to these. Any work location may be used as the work environment. The work environment may be indoors or outdoors. In the following explanation, we will use an example in which the work environment is a logistics warehouse (hereinafter simply referred to as "warehouse"). Furthermore, we will assume that there are multiple workers performing warehouse work inside the warehouse.

[0020] In the advertising distribution system 10, the distribution control device 1 acquires data from the warehouse management device 2 and the advertising output device 3, performs predetermined processing using the acquired data, and distributes advertisements to the advertising output device 3. The warehouse management device 2 is an information processing device that manages the schedules and progress of workers' work. The advertising output device 3 is a terminal device used by workers who view advertisements. The advertising output device 3 outputs the distributed advertisements, for example, by displaying them. The distribution control device 1 distributes advertisements to the advertising output device 3 at predetermined timings. Workers view the advertisements output from the advertising output device 3.

[0021] The following describes an example in which a glasses-type device is used as the advertising output device 3. The glasses-type device is, for example, smart glasses or AR (Augmented Reality) glasses. For example, the advertising output device 3 is configured to display support images to assist with work. For example, the advertising output device 3 is connected to a support image management device (not shown) via a network N. The advertising output device 3 receives support images transmitted from the support image management device and displays the received support images on the display unit 32.

[0022] For example, suppose a worker is responsible for picking items in a warehouse. The worker performs the task while wearing the advertising output device 3. If the advertising output device 3 is AR glasses, the advertising output device 3 overlays the shelf number and correct location of the item to be picked onto the worker's field of view. This allows even inexperienced workers to intuitively find the item and accurately retrieve it from the shelf. The support image can be a still image or a moving image.

[0023] In this way, workers can perform their tasks while wearing the advertising output device 3, and can proceed with their work while viewing support images displayed on the advertising output device 3 as needed. Furthermore, during breaks or between tasks, workers can view advertisements delivered to the advertising output device 3 without using other devices. The following describes the various components of the advertising delivery system 10.

[0024] (Distribution control device 1) The distribution control device 1 is an example of the distribution control system 100 described above. The distribution control device 1 is a control device that controls the distribution of advertisements in the advertisement distribution system 10. For example, the distribution control device 1 may be implemented by a server device or cloud system that provides an advertisement distribution service. The distribution control device 1 includes a worker attribute acquisition unit 11, a work status acquisition unit 12, an advertisement decision unit 13, a distribution control unit 14, and a storage unit 19.

[0025] The worker attribute acquisition unit 11 is an example of the worker attribute acquisition unit 101 described above. The worker attribute acquisition unit 11 acquires worker attributes. Worker attributes include, for example, the worker's age, gender, or family structure. However, worker attributes may include any information about the worker. For example, worker attributes may include information about the work area the worker is responsible for.

[0026] The worker attribute acquisition unit 11 acquires worker attributes by, for example, referring to the worker attribute DB (Database) 191 in the storage unit 19. The worker attribute DB 191 stores worker attributes acquired via a worker terminal (not shown) used by the worker. The worker terminal may be a device such as a PC (Personal Computer) or a smartphone.

[0027] Figure 4 shows an example of the Worker Attributes DB191. In this example, the Worker Attributes DB191 includes information on Worker ID, Name, Age, Gender, and Family Structure. The Worker ID is information used to identify the worker. The Name is information indicating the worker's name. The Age is information indicating the worker's age based on their date of birth. The Gender is information indicating the worker's gender. The Family Structure is information indicating whether the worker has a family and how many family members they have. These are just examples, and the contents of the Worker Attributes DB191 may be changed as appropriate. For example, the worker's areas of interest may be included as a worker attribute.

[0028] The worker attribute acquisition unit 11 first identifies the worker ID corresponding to the worker wearing the advertising output device 3. For example, the worker attribute acquisition unit 11 can acquire the worker ID identified in response to the successful biometric authentication of the worker from the advertising output device 3.

[0029] For example, the advertising output device 3 authenticates workers using an iris authentication function. Specifically, the advertising output device 3 uses the imaging unit 31 to photograph the worker's iris and performs an authentication process to identify the worker ID. For example, the advertising output device 3 performs iris authentication by transmitting the iris image and a biometric authentication request to an authentication device (not shown) connected to the network N. If iris authentication is successful, the advertising output device 3 obtains the identified worker ID from the authentication device. The advertising output device 3 transmits the obtained worker ID to the distribution control device 1. As a result, the worker attribute acquisition unit 11 obtains the worker ID of the worker wearing the advertising output device 3.

[0030] The worker attribute acquisition unit 11 refers to the worker attribute DB 191 and retrieves worker attributes associated with the acquired worker ID. The worker attribute acquisition unit 11 outputs the acquired worker attributes to the work status acquisition unit 12. This allows the work status acquisition unit 12 to determine an advertisement suitable for the worker. Although iris recognition was used here, the biometric authentication method is not limited to this. For example, biometric authentication methods such as facial recognition may be used.

[0031] Returning to Figure 3, the work status acquisition unit 12 is an example of the work status acquisition unit 102 described above. The work status acquisition unit 12 acquires the work status of workers. For example, the work status acquisition unit 12 first acquires images from the warehouse imaging unit 21 of the warehouse management device 2 or the imaging unit 31 of the advertising output device 3. The work status acquisition unit 12 analyzes the images using any image analysis technique. The work status acquisition unit 12 acquires the work status based on the analysis results. The work status is information that indicates the status of work performed by the worker. For example, the work status may include information such as whether the worker is "working," "not working," or "taking a break."

[0032] The advertising decision unit 13 is an example of the advertising decision unit 103 described above. The advertising decision unit 13 determines which advertisements to deliver to workers based on worker attributes and work status. For example, the advertising decision unit 13 determines advertising attributes that indicate the attributes of an advertisement, and then determines which advertisements to deliver to workers based on the determined advertising attributes. Advertising attributes include, for example, the type of advertisement, content, or playback time.

[0033] The types of advertisements may include, for example, video advertisements, still image advertisements, or audio advertisements. The advertisement selection unit 13 may select one of these types based on the worker's attributes. The content of the advertisements may include, for example, product introductions, service information, or entertainment content. The advertisement selection unit 13 customizes the content of the products and services to be included in the advertisements according to the worker's age and gender, and selects advertisements that are expected to attract the worker's interest. This allows the advertisement selection unit 13 to select advertisements that are appropriate for the worker.

[0034] The playback time of an advertisement is the length of the advertisement to be delivered. The advertisement decision unit 13 determines a playback time that is not expected to be burdensome to the worker, based on the worker's work status. The advertisement decision unit 13 may select an advertisement that matches the determined playback time, or it may decide to shorten a long advertisement, or to play an advertisement at double speed, etc.

[0035] The distribution control unit 14 is an example of the distribution control unit 104 described above. The distribution control unit 14 controls the distribution of advertisements to the advertisement output device 3. For example, if the advertisement output device 3 is a glasses-type device such as AR glasses, the distribution control unit 14 controls the distribution so that advertisements are displayed on the advertisement output device 3 without any operation by the operator. As a result, the operator can easily view advertisements without having to perform any operation to display them.

[0036] If the advertising output device 3 is a smartphone or tablet terminal, the distribution control unit 14 may distribute advertisements in response to the worker's request. For example, the distribution control unit 14 may distribute advertisements when the worker operates their smartphone during a break and requests or authorizes the distribution of advertisements.

[0037] The delivery control unit 14 controls the delivery and cessation of advertisements. Based on the work status, the delivery control unit 14 determines a delivery timing that includes at least one of the start timing and end timing of advertisement delivery, and delivers advertisements based on the determined delivery timing.

[0038] For example, the distribution control unit 14 may identify the available viewing time period, which indicates the time period during which a worker can view the advertisement, and determine the distribution timing based on the identified available viewing time period. Specifically, the distribution control unit 14 obtains the worker's schedule from the schedule DB 291 stored in the storage unit 29 of the warehouse management device 2. Based on the obtained schedule, the distribution control unit 14 identifies the worker's available viewing time period.

[0039] Figure 5 shows an example of Schedule DB291. Schedule DB291 includes worker ID, scheduled work date, time slot, location, content, and break times. The worker ID corresponds to the worker ID in Figure 4. The scheduled work date is the day on which the work is scheduled. The time slot, location, content, and break times are the time slot, location, content, and break times for the work scheduled on the scheduled work date.

[0040] Viewable time periods include, for example, break times, pre-work hours, post-work hours, or waiting times between tasks. The distribution control unit 14 determines the distribution timing so that advertisements are delivered between the start and end of the viewable time period. For example, the distribution control unit 14 may identify the worker's break time as the viewable time period, determine the start time of the break time as the distribution start timing, and determine the end time of the break time as the distribution end timing.

[0041] For example, in the example in Figure 5, the worker with worker ID "001" has a break time from 12:00 to 13:00. In this case, the distribution control unit 14 determines that 12:00 is the start time for distribution and 13:00 is the end time for distribution. In this way, the distribution control unit 14 can determine the timing of advertisement distribution in conjunction with the schedule of the worker that has been registered in advance. This allows the distribution control unit 14 to determine the timing of distribution so that advertisements are delivered, for example, during downtime. The distribution control unit 14 may also specify the viewable time period for multiple workers at once. For example, the distribution control unit 14 may specify the basic break time that applies to all warehouse workers (for example, from 12:00 to 13:00) as the viewable time period.

[0042] Furthermore, the distribution control unit 14 may monitor whether the worker is in a safe condition based on at least one of the worker's safety condition and work condition, and determine the distribution timing based on the monitoring results. If the worker is not in a safe condition, the distribution control unit 14 will determine the distribution timing in a way that suppresses the distribution of advertisements. For example, the distribution control unit 14 may decide not to distribute advertisements if the worker is not in a safe condition. The distribution control unit 14 may also reduce the number of times or duration of advertisement distribution compared to when the worker is in a safe condition.

[0043] Safety conditions describe the conditions of the worker or their surroundings. Safety conditions may include information regarding the safety of the worker or their surroundings. Safety conditions may include information about the work the worker is performing and whether the worker's work environment contains hazards.

[0044] Examples of tasks performed by workers that involve hazards include working at heights, transporting heavy objects, operating machinery, or handling hazardous materials. Examples of work environments that involve hazards include having sharp tools, chemicals, unstable shelves, or heavy machinery nearby.

[0045] For example, the distribution control unit 14 acquires images captured by the warehouse imaging unit 21 of the warehouse management device 2 and the imaging unit 31 of the advertising output device 3, and identifies the safety status of the workers based on the acquired images. The distribution control unit 14 analyzes the captured images using any image analysis technique to identify the safety status of the workers.

[0046] The distribution control unit 14 may also determine the safety status based on information obtained from sensors provided by the advertising output device 3. For example, suppose the advertising output device 3 is equipped with an acceleration sensor and a gyroscope sensor. The distribution control unit 14 determines the worker's movement state based on information obtained from these sensors. For example, the acceleration sensor detects the worker's movement speed and whether or not there are sudden movements. The gyroscope sensor detects changes in the worker's tilt and posture.

[0047] The distribution control unit 14 acquires detection results from the acceleration sensor and gyro sensor, and identifies the safety status based on the acquired detection results. In addition to the detection results from these sensors, the distribution control unit 14 may also identify the safety status based on the images captured by the warehouse imaging unit 21 and the imaging unit 31. For example, the distribution control unit 14 can accurately identify the safety status by combining the detection results from the acceleration sensor and gyro sensor of the advertising output device 3 with the images captured by the warehouse imaging unit 21.

[0048] The distribution control unit 14 determines whether a worker is in a safe situation based on at least one of the worker's safety situation and work situation. For example, the distribution control unit 14 determines whether the worker is "in a safe situation" or "not in a safe situation" based on the worker's safety situation as described above. For example, the distribution control unit 14 determines that the worker is not in a safe situation if the work the worker is performing or the worker's work environment contains hazards. The distribution control unit 14 may also express whether the worker is in a safe situation as a numerical value or level.

[0049] Furthermore, the distribution control unit 14 may make the determination based on the worker's work status. For example, if the worker is performing some kind of work, the distribution control unit 14 may determine that the worker is not in a safe situation.

[0050] The ad delivery control unit 14 may determine the timing of ad delivery so as not to deliver ads until the worker is in a safe condition if the worker is not in a safe condition. For example, the ad delivery control unit 14 can adjust the timing of ad delivery, such as delivering ads after the worker has finished their work or after sharp tools have been removed from the surroundings. This allows the ad delivery control unit 14 to deliver ads at a timing that takes the worker's safety into consideration. The ad delivery control unit 14 may also stop delivering ads if the worker, who was in a safe condition, is no longer in a safe condition.

[0051] Furthermore, the distribution control unit 14 may control the distribution of advertisements based on the progress of work by a worker or work group. For example, the distribution control unit 14 obtains the progress from the progress status DB 292 stored in the storage unit 29 of the warehouse management device 2. The progress status may be that of a specific individual worker, or that of a work group consisting of multiple workers. The distribution control unit 14 may also determine the distribution timing based on the progress rate, which indicates the degree of progress.

[0052] Figure 6 shows an example of the progress status DB292. The progress status DB292 includes the work ID, progress rate, delay, and delay days. The work ID is information used to identify the work. The progress rate is information that shows the progress of the work, expressed as a percentage of the work's completion relative to the overall plan. The delay is information that shows whether the work is behind schedule. The delay days are information that shows how far behind the work is from schedule in days.

[0053] The delivery control unit 14 may determine at least one of the ad attributes and delivery timing of the ad to be delivered based on the progress rate. For example, if the progress rate is below a threshold, the delivery control unit 14 will determine the content and delivery timing so that the delivery time of the ad is shorter than when the progress rate is above the threshold.

[0054] Furthermore, the distribution control unit 14 may differentiate the distribution timing and at least one of the ad attributes depending on whether there is a delay in the progress status or not. Here, "differentiating the distribution timing" includes differentiating whether or not the ad is distributed depending on whether there is a delay in the progress status or not. For example, the distribution control unit 14 may control the distribution of ads so that it does not distribute ads when there is a delay, and distributes ads when there is no delay.

[0055] For example, the distribution control unit 14 may select product introductions as the type of advertisement if there is a delay, and entertainment content if there is no delay. The distribution control unit 14 may also select advertisements with relatively short playback times if there is a delay, and advertisements with relatively long playback times if there is no delay. The distribution control unit 14 may also appropriately select advertisement attributes to prevent the occurrence or expansion of delays.

[0056] The storage unit 19 stores various data and programs. At least a portion of the storage unit 19 is composed of non-volatile memory so that data is retained even when the power to the distribution control device 1 is turned off. The storage unit 19 also stores the worker attribute DB 191 described above.

[0057] (Warehouse management device 2) Warehouse management device 2 is a system for managing operations within a warehouse. Warehouse management device 2 comprises a warehouse imaging unit 21, a schedule management unit 22, a progress management unit 23, and a storage unit 29.

[0058] The warehouse camera unit 21 is a camera that photographs the inside of the warehouse. The warehouse camera unit 21 is, for example, a camera. The warehouse camera unit 21 may be a fixed camera or a panoramic camera capable of capturing a 360-degree field of view of the surroundings. The warehouse management device 2 may be equipped with multiple warehouse camera units 21. Multiple warehouse camera units 21 are installed, for example, on the ceiling or walls of the warehouse and take photographs in a predetermined direction. For example, the warehouse camera units 21 are installed in work areas, rest areas, storage areas, receiving areas, shipping areas, shelves, aisles, or inspection areas. The warehouse camera units 21 photograph workers, goods, or products in each area.

[0059] The warehouse imaging unit 21 transmits the captured images obtained through imaging to the distribution control device 1. The warehouse imaging unit 21 may transmit the captured images in real time or at predetermined time intervals. The captured images may be still images or moving images.

[0060] The schedule management unit 22 manages the workers' schedules. For example, the schedule management unit 22 manages workers' attendance schedules, work schedules, and break schedules. For example, the schedule management unit 22 accepts schedule registrations from workers via worker terminals. Workers register their schedules with the schedule management unit 22, for example, via a designated application.

[0061] This is not the only option; a manager responsible for managing the workers' schedules may also register the schedules. The manager registers the workers' schedules with the schedule management unit 22 via a manager terminal (not shown). The schedule management unit 22 may register, for example, breaks taken by all workers simultaneously (e.g., lunch breaks) all at once. The schedule management unit 22 stores the workers' schedules in the schedule DB 291 of the storage unit 29. The schedule DB 291 is as described with reference to Figure 5, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0062] The progress management unit 23 manages the progress of work by workers or work groups. For example, suppose the progress management unit 23 manages the progress of picking work. The progress management unit 23 obtains the results of reading the tags of products on the shelves with barcode readers or RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) readers via the network N connected to these readers.

[0063] The progress management unit 23 manages the progress of the work based on the acquired reading results. Each time a worker reads a product tag, the progress management unit 23 records in the progress status DB 292 that the corresponding work item has been completed and updates the work progress rate. This allows the progress management unit 23 to manage the progress of the work in real time. The progress status DB 292 is as explained with reference to Figure 6, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0064] However, the method of managing progress is not limited to this. The progress management unit 23 may manage progress by analyzing images captured by the warehouse photography unit 21. Alternatively, the progress management unit 23 may update the progress status DB 292 by receiving confirmation of work completion from workers via worker terminals or the like.

[0065] The storage unit 29 stores various data and programs. At least a portion of the storage unit 29 is composed of non-volatile memory so that data is retained even when the power to the warehouse management device 2 is turned off. The storage unit 29 also stores the schedule DB 291 and progress status DB 292 mentioned above.

[0066] (Advertising output device 3) The advertising output device 3 is a device that outputs advertisements. The advertising output device 3 comprises a shooting unit 31 and a display unit 32. The advertising output device 3 is, for example, a glasses-type device capable of displaying support images to assist a worker's work. The worker wears the advertising output device 3, which is a glasses-type device, while performing their work. However, the advertising output device 3 is not limited to this and may be a smartphone or a tablet terminal, etc. The advertising output device 3 only needs to be capable of outputting advertisements distributed by the distribution control device 1.

[0067] The imaging unit 31 is an imaging device that photographs the area around the advertising output device 3. The imaging unit 31 is built into, for example, the frame or bridge portion of the advertising output device 3, which is a glasses-type device. Therefore, the imaging unit 31 photographs a predetermined direction from near the operator's eyes. The imaging unit 31 is, for example, a high-resolution camera.

[0068] The camera unit 31 can capture images within the worker's field of vision while the worker is moving or working. The camera unit 31 may be configured to capture images in the direction of the worker's line of sight. The camera unit 31 can capture images of, for example, a work area, rest area, storage area, receiving area, shipping area, shelves, aisles, or inspection area. Also, for example, if a worker is performing a task at hand, the camera unit 31 can capture images of the area around the worker's hands.

[0069] The imaging unit 31 transmits the captured image obtained through imaging to the distribution control device 1 via a communication unit (not shown). The imaging unit 31 may transmit the image data in real time or at predetermined time intervals. The captured image may be a still image or a moving image. The imaging unit 31 also captures an area including the worker's eyes and acquires an iris image used for iris authentication of the worker.

[0070] The display unit 32 is a display device that displays advertisements. The display unit 32 is, for example, a display. The display unit 32 may be, for example, an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display. The display unit 32 is configured to display advertisements and various information within the worker's field of vision. Note that the display unit 32 may be a display separate from the glasses-type device. For example, the display unit 32 may be the display unit of a terminal device such as a smartphone used by the worker.

[0071] Furthermore, the advertising output device 3 may also be equipped with an audio output function. For example, the advertising output device 3 may be equipped with a bone conduction speaker or a small speaker, and the audio contained in the advertisement may be output from the speaker.

[0072] (Remuneration management device 4) The reward management device 4 is an information processing device that sets rewards for workers according to the advertising delivery status. Rewards for workers are monetary compensation or incentives given to workers according to the advertising delivery status. Rewards may be set as points usable in a predetermined point system. The reward management device 4 comprises a delivery status acquisition unit 41, a reward calculation unit 42, and a reward granting unit 43.

[0073] The delivery status acquisition unit 41 acquires the delivery status of advertisements. For example, the delivery status acquisition unit 41 acquires the delivery status of advertisements for each worker from the delivery control device 1. The delivery status may include, for example, the number of advertisements delivered, the total delivery time, or the number of advertisements that were viewed to completion. The delivery status is used to calculate the compensation for workers.

[0074] The compensation calculation unit 42 calculates compensation for workers based on the delivery status. For example, the compensation calculation unit 42 calculates compensation by multiplying the unit price of the delivered advertisement by the total delivery time. The compensation calculation unit 42 may also adjust compensation according to advertisement attributes (e.g., advertisement type, content, or playback time) and worker attributes (e.g., age, gender, or family structure). The compensation calculation unit 42 may also allow workers to respond with whether or not they are interested in the delivered advertisement, for example, by the number of stars. If an response indicating interest in the advertisement is received, the compensation calculation unit 42 may adjust the compensation so that additional compensation is given to the worker. The compensation calculation unit 42 may also reflect the level of interest in the advertisement in the worker attribute DB 191. This allows the delivery control device 1 to deliver advertisements that better reflect individual preferences.

[0075] The reward distribution unit 43 distributes the reward calculated by the reward calculation unit 42 to the worker. For example, the reward distribution unit 43 reflects the reward in the worker's payroll system. The reward distribution unit 43 may also distribute points to the worker via a point system (not shown).

[0076] While this example shows the reward management device 4 managing rewards, it is not limited to this. The distribution control device 1 may also manage rewards by incorporating the functions of the reward management device 4. In that case, for example, the distribution control device 1 further includes a reward management unit that has the functions of the reward management device 4. The reward management unit includes the functions of the distribution status acquisition unit 41, the reward calculation unit 42, and the reward granting unit 43 described above.

[0077] The configuration of the advertising distribution system 10 has been described above. The configuration of the advertising distribution system 10 described above is merely an example and can be modified as appropriate. For example, if some or all of the components of the distribution control device 1, warehouse management device 2, advertising output device 3, and reward management device 4 are implemented by multiple information processing devices or circuits, these multiple information processing devices or circuits may be centrally located or distributed. For example, the information processing devices or circuits may be implemented in a form in which each is connected via a communication network, such as a client-server system or a cloud computing system. Furthermore, the functions of the distribution control device 1, warehouse management device 2, and reward management device 4 may be provided in SaaS (Software as a Service) format.

[0078] For example, in Figure 2, the storage unit 19 is shown inside the distribution control device 1, but the storage unit 19 may be provided in a device other than the distribution control device 1. Also, in Figure 2, the warehouse imaging unit 21 is shown inside the warehouse management device 2, but the warehouse imaging unit 21 may be provided in another imaging system or the like.

[0079] (Processing by the distribution control device 1) Next, we will explain the processing performed by the distribution control device 1 with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the distribution control device 1.

[0080] First, the worker attribute acquisition unit 11 acquires worker attributes from the worker attribute DB 191 (S11). Next, the work status acquisition unit 12 acquires the current work status of the worker (S12). For example, the work status acquisition unit 12 acquires captured images from the warehouse photography unit 21 of the warehouse management device 2 or the photography unit 31 of the advertising output device 3, and analyzes the captured images. The work status acquisition unit 12 acquires the work status based on the analysis results. For example, the work status acquisition unit 12 acquires work status such as whether the worker is "working," "not working," or "on break."

[0081] Next, the distribution control unit 14 acquires the progress status of the work (S13). For example, the distribution control unit 14 acquires the progress status from the progress status DB 292 stored in the storage unit 29 of the warehouse management device 2. The progress status may be that of a specific individual worker or that of a work group. The distribution control unit 14 acquires information such as the progress rate and whether or not there are delays.

[0082] Next, the ad decision unit 13 determines which advertisements to deliver to the workers based on the acquired worker attributes, work status, and progress status (S14). For example, the ad decision unit 13 determines ad attributes based on the worker attributes and work status, and then determines which advertisements to deliver based on the determined ad attributes. The ad decision unit 13 may also, for example, select an advertisement with a shorter playback time than if there were no delay, if there is a delay in the progress status. The ad decision unit 13 may also decide not to deliver any advertisements if the delay exceeds a predetermined level. The ad decision unit 13 may, for example, determine whether the progress rate is below a predetermined threshold and make the decision based on the determination result.

[0083] Next, the distribution control unit 14 determines the distribution timing (S15). The distribution control unit 14 may determine the distribution start timing so as to start distribution promptly if, for example, the worker is not working or is on a break. Alternatively, if the worker is working, the distribution control unit 14 may obtain the worker's schedule, identify the time period during which the worker is available to view the content, and determine the distribution timing based on the identified time period during which the worker is available to view the content. The distribution control unit 14 can obtain the worker's schedule from the schedule DB 291 stored in the storage unit 29 of the warehouse management device 2.

[0084] Next, the distribution control unit 14 determines whether the current time has reached the distribution start timing (S16). If it is determined that it is not the distribution start timing (NO in S16), the process in step S16 is repeated. If it is determined that it is the distribution start timing (YES in S16), the distribution control unit 14 determines whether the worker is in a safe situation (S17).

[0085] If it is determined that the worker is not in a safe situation (NO in S17), the process in step S17 is repeated until it is determined that the worker is in a safe situation. This allows the distribution control unit 14 to refrain from distributing advertisements when the worker is not in a safe situation.

[0086] If it is determined that the worker is in a safe situation (YES in S17), the delivery control unit 14 delivers the advertisement (S18). The delivery control unit 14 continues to deliver the advertisement until the determined delivery end time. The delivery control unit 14 constantly monitors whether the worker is in a safe situation and may stop delivery if it is determined that the worker is not in a safe situation.

[0087] Next, the distribution control unit 14 records the distribution status of the advertisement (S19). For example, the distribution control unit 14 transmits the distribution status to the reward management device 4. The distribution status may include the worker ID, the content of the distributed advertisement, or the distribution time. The distribution control unit 14 may temporarily store the distribution status in the storage unit 19 and, after a predetermined time has elapsed, transmit multiple distribution statuses together to the reward management device 4.

[0088] Although not shown in the diagram, the reward management device 4 sets and grants rewards to workers according to the advertising delivery status. Specifically, the delivery status acquisition unit 41 acquires the delivery status from the delivery control device 1. The reward calculation unit 42 calculates the reward to workers based on the delivery status. The reward granting unit 43 grants the reward to the workers.

[0089] As explained above, in the advertising distribution system 10 described herein, the distribution control device 1 determines which advertisements to distribute to workers based on worker attributes and work status. Furthermore, since the distribution control device 1 can determine the distribution timing based on the work status, advertisements can be distributed appropriately to workers.

[0090] Furthermore, the distribution control device 1 can acquire the worker's schedule and determine the distribution timing based on the acquired schedule, so advertisements can be delivered during viewing times such as break times.

[0091] Furthermore, the distribution control device 1 can monitor whether the worker is in a safe situation and determine the distribution timing so as not to distribute the advertisement if the worker is not in a safe situation, thus ensuring the safety of the worker and the surrounding area while distributing the advertisement.

[0092] Furthermore, the delivery control device 1 can control the delivery of advertisements based on the progress of the work. For example, if there is a delay in the progress, it can determine different delivery timings and advertisement attributes than those in a case where there is no delay.

[0093] With this configuration, the advertising distribution system 10 can provide workers with the enjoyment of watching advertisements while simultaneously improving productivity and ensuring safety. As a result, the advertising distribution system 10 can contribute to making warehouse work more attractive.

[0094] Furthermore, the advertising distribution system 10 also uses AR glasses, which are used for giving instructions during warehouse work, as an advertising output device 3 for advertising distribution. This allows the advertising distribution system 10 to reduce advertising distribution costs and enable seamless advertising viewing during warehouse work.

[0095] Furthermore, the advertising distribution system 10 can reward workers based on the ad delivery status. Therefore, workers benefit from being able to relax during breaks and earn additional income. Advertisers benefit from being able to deliver ads to targets with appropriate worker attributes and from reducing advertising costs by eliminating the need to create flyers and other materials. Warehouse operators benefit from being able to increase worker motivation by providing incentives.

[0096] <Example Hardware Configuration> Each functional component of the distribution control system 100, distribution control device 1, warehouse management device 2, advertising output device 3, and reward management device 4 (hereinafter referred to as "distribution control system 100, etc.") may be implemented by hardware (e.g., hardwired electronic circuits) or by a combination of hardware and software (e.g., a combination of electronic circuits and programs that control them). The case in which each functional component of the distribution control system 100, etc. is implemented by a combination of hardware and software will be further explained below.

[0097] Figure 8 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of a computer 900 that implements the distribution control system 100, etc. The computer 900 may be a dedicated computer designed to implement the distribution control system 100, etc., or it may be a general-purpose computer. The computer 900 may also be a portable computer such as a smartphone or tablet terminal.

[0098] For example, by installing a predetermined application on computer 900, various functions of the distribution control system 100, etc., are realized on computer 900. The above application consists of a program for realizing the functional components of the distribution control system 100, etc.

[0099] Computer 900 comprises a bus 902, a processor 904, memory 906, a storage device 908, an input / output interface 910, and a network interface 912. The bus 902 is a data transmission path for the processor 904, memory 906, storage device 908, input / output interface 910, and network interface 912 to send and receive data to and from each other. However, the method of connecting the processor 904 and other components to each other is not limited to bus connection.

[0100] The processor 904 is a variety of processors such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or quantum processor (quantum computer control chip). The memory 906 is the main memory, implemented using RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The storage device 908 is the auxiliary storage, implemented using a hard disk, SSD (Solid State Drive), memory card, or ROM (Read Only Memory), etc.

[0101] The input / output interface 910 is an interface for connecting the computer 900 with input / output devices. For example, input devices such as keyboards and output devices such as display devices are connected to the input / output interface 910.

[0102] The network interface 912 is an interface for connecting computer 900 to a network. This network may be a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0103] The storage device 908 stores programs that implement each functional component of the distribution control system 100 (programs that implement the aforementioned applications). The processor 904 reads these programs into memory 906 and executes them to implement each functional component of the distribution control system 100.

[0104] Each processor executes one or more programs containing a set of instructions for causing the computer to perform an algorithm. These programs, when loaded into the computer, contain a set of instructions (or software code) for causing the computer to perform one or more functions described in the embodiments. The programs may be stored in various types of non-transitory computer-readable medium or tangible storage medium. Examples, but not limited to, include non-transitory computer-readable medium or tangible storage medium, such as RAM, ROM, flash memory, SSD or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), Blu-ray® disc or other optical disc storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices. The programs may also be transmitted over various types of transient computer-readable medium or communication medium. Examples, but not limited to, include transient computer-readable medium or communication medium, such as electrical, optical, acoustic or other forms of propagating signals.

[0105] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. Various modifications to the structure and details of the present disclosure are possible, as can be understood by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0106] Each drawing is merely illustrative to illustrate one or more embodiments. Each drawing may be associated with one or more other embodiments rather than with only one specific embodiment. As those skilled in the art will understand, various features or steps described with reference to any one drawing can be combined with features or steps shown in one or more other drawings, for example, to create embodiments not explicitly shown or described. Not all features or steps shown in any one drawing to illustrate an exemplary embodiment are necessarily required, and some features or steps may be omitted. The order of steps shown in any of the drawings may be changed as appropriate.

[0107] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following: (Note 1) A worker attribute acquisition unit acquires worker attributes that indicate the attributes of the worker, A work status acquisition unit that acquires the work status of the aforementioned worker, An advertising decision unit that determines which advertisements to deliver to the worker based on the worker's attributes and work status, The system comprises a distribution control unit that controls the distribution of the aforementioned advertisements. Distribution control system. (Note 2) The distribution control unit determines a distribution timing that includes at least one of the start and end times for distribution of the advertisement, based on the work status, and distributes the advertisement based on the determined distribution timing. The distribution control system described in Appendix 1. (Note 3) The distribution control unit obtains the worker's schedule, identifies a viewing time period that indicates the time period during which the worker can view the advertisement based on the obtained schedule, and determines the distribution timing based on the identified viewing time period. The distribution control system described in Appendix 2. (Note 4) The distribution control unit identifies the worker's break time as the viewable time period, determines the start time of the break time as the distribution start timing, and determines the end time of the break time as the distribution end timing. The distribution control system described in Appendix 3. (Note 5) The distribution control unit monitors whether the worker is in a safe condition based on at least one of the worker's safety condition and the work condition, and if the worker is not in a safe condition, it determines the distribution timing to suppress the distribution of the advertisement. A distribution control system as described in any one of the items 2 to 4 of the appendix. (Note 6) The distribution control unit controls the distribution of the advertisement based on the progress of the work by the worker or work group, and makes the distribution timing and at least one of the advertisement attributes indicating the attributes of the advertisement different depending on whether or not there is a delay in the progress. A distribution control system as described in any one of the items 2 to 5 of the appendix. (Note 7) The system further includes a compensation setting unit that sets compensation for the worker according to the delivery status of the aforementioned advertisement. A distribution control system as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 6. (Note 8) The worker performs the task while wearing a glasses-type device that displays support images to assist in the work. The distribution control unit distributes the advertisement to the glasses-type device. A distribution control system as described in any one of the appendices 1 to 7. (Note 9) A worker attribute acquisition step to acquire worker attributes that indicate the attributes of the worker, A work status acquisition step to acquire the work status of the aforementioned worker, An advertising decision step in which an advertisement to deliver to the worker is determined based on the worker's attributes and work status, Includes a delivery control step that controls the delivery of the aforementioned advertisement. Distribution control method. (Note 10) A worker attribute acquisition step to acquire worker attributes that indicate the attributes of the worker, A work status acquisition step to acquire the work status of the aforementioned worker, An advertising decision step in which an advertisement to deliver to the worker is determined based on the worker's attributes and work status, A delivery control step that controls the delivery of the aforementioned advertisement, and a computer to execute the delivery control step. program.

[0108] Some or all of the elements (e.g., configuration and function) described in Appendices 2 to 8 that are dependent on Appendice 1 may also be dependent on Appendices 9 and 10 in the same manner as those described in Appendices 2 to 8. Some or all of the elements described in any appendice may be applicable to various hardware, software, recording means, systems, and methods for recording software. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0109] 1 Distribution control device 2 Warehouse management equipment 3. Advertising output device 4 Remuneration management device 10. Ad delivery system 11 Worker attribute acquisition section 12. Work Status Acquisition Unit 13 Advertising Decision Department 14 Distribution Control Unit 19 Memory section 21 Warehouse Photography Department 22 Schedule Management Department 23 Progress Management Department 29 Memory section 31 Photography Department 32 Display section 41 Distribution Status Acquisition Unit 42 Remuneration Calculation Department 43. Reward Distribution Department 100 Distribution Control System 101 Worker attribute acquisition section 102 Work Status Acquisition Unit 103 Advertising Decision Department 104 Distribution Control Unit 900 Computers 902 Bus 904 Processor 906 memory 908 Storage Devices 910 Input / Output Interface 912 Network Interface 191 Worker attribute DB 291 Schedule DB 292 Progress Status DB N Network

Claims

1. A worker attribute acquisition unit that acquires worker attributes indicating the attributes of the worker, A work status acquisition unit that acquires the work status of the aforementioned worker, An advertising decision unit that determines which advertisements to deliver to the worker based on the worker's attributes and work status, The system comprises a distribution control unit that controls the distribution of the aforementioned advertisements. Distribution control system.

2. The distribution control unit determines a distribution timing that includes at least one of the start and end times for distribution of the advertisement, based on the work status, and distributes the advertisement based on the determined distribution timing. The distribution control system according to claim 1.

3. The distribution control unit obtains the worker's schedule, identifies a viewing time period that indicates the time period during which the worker can view the advertisement based on the obtained schedule, and determines the distribution timing based on the identified viewing time period. The distribution control system according to claim 2.

4. The distribution control unit identifies the worker's break time as the viewable time period, determines the start time of the break time as the distribution start timing, and determines the end time of the break time as the distribution end timing. The distribution control system according to claim 3.

5. The distribution control unit monitors whether the worker is in a safe condition based on at least one of the worker's safety condition and the work condition, and if the worker is not in a safe condition, it determines the distribution timing to suppress the distribution of the advertisement. The distribution control system according to claim 2.

6. The distribution control unit controls the distribution of the advertisement based on the progress of the work by the worker or work group, and makes the distribution timing and at least one of the advertisement attributes indicating the attributes of the advertisement different depending on whether or not there is a delay in the progress. The distribution control system according to claim 2.

7. The system further includes a compensation setting unit that sets compensation for the worker according to the delivery status of the aforementioned advertisement. The distribution control system according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The worker performs the task while wearing a glasses-type device that displays support images to assist in the work. The distribution control unit distributes the advertisement to the glasses-type device. The distribution control system according to claim 1 or 2.

9. A worker attribute acquisition step to acquire worker attributes that indicate the attributes of the worker, A work status acquisition step to acquire the work status of the aforementioned worker, An advertising decision step in which an advertisement to deliver to the worker is determined based on the worker's attributes and work status, Includes a delivery control step that controls the delivery of the aforementioned advertisement. Distribution control method.

10. A worker attribute acquisition step to acquire worker attributes that indicate the attributes of the worker, A work status acquisition step to acquire the work status of the aforementioned worker, An advertising decision step in which an advertisement to deliver to the worker is determined based on the worker's attributes and work status, A delivery control step that controls the delivery of the aforementioned advertisement, and a computer to execute the delivery control step. program.

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