Work plan creation method and work plan creation apparatus

Abstract

To provide a work plan creation method and a work plan creation apparatus that can modify the work plan in accordance with the work progress of at least the worker or robot. [Solution] The work plan creation method obtains work instructions and a target time for work completion, obtains the work progress of at least the worker or robot, sets the work process being performed by the worker and robot related to the work progress obtained at the first point in time, and the work process from the first point in time to a predetermined time as work not to be modified, and creates a work plan by setting the work process after the predetermined time has elapsed as work to be modified.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a work plan creation method and a work plan creation apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Literature 1 discloses a work plan table creation support apparatus which inputs, as parameters, the number of workers performing work for each work, the processing capacity per worker, and the work start time, calculates a work end time, holds the latest work end time or the maximum number of workers as a constraint, inputs a simulation result, and outputs a work plan table in which a work end time or the number of workers violating the constraint is displayed as a warning.

[0003] Patent Literature 2 discloses a work management support method which acquires current state information based on information collected using an information collection device arranged at a work site and information related to a change in order volume and a change in a work schedule, and creates an improvement proposal for at least one of a work process plan and a staffing plan included in a work plan based on the current state information and the current work plan.

Prior Art Literature

Patent Literature

[0004]

Patent Literature 1

Patent Literature 2

Summary of Invention

Problem to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure has been devised in view of the above-described conventional situation, and an object of the present disclosure is to provide a work plan creation method and a work plan creation apparatus capable of correcting a work plan according to at least the work progress of workers or robots.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] This disclosure provides a work plan creation method that acquires work instructions and a target time for work completion, acquires the work progress of at least a worker or robot, sets the work processes being performed by the worker and the robot related to the acquired work progress at a first point in time, and the work processes from the first point in time to a predetermined time as work not subject to modification, and creates a work plan by setting the work processes after the predetermined time has elapsed as work subject to modification.

[0007] This disclosure provides a work planning device comprising a work planning unit that acquires work instructions and target work completion times, and a work performance storage unit that acquires work progress of at least a worker or robot, wherein the work planning unit sets the work processes being performed by the worker and the robot related to the acquired work progress at a first point in time when the work progress is acquired, and the work processes between the first point in time and a predetermined time as work not subject to modification, and sets the work processes after the predetermined time has elapsed as work subject to modification, thereby creating a work plan. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to this disclosure, the work plan can be modified to match the progress of at least the worker or robot. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Block diagram showing an example configuration of a warehouse operations support system including a work plan creation device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the work plan creation device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 3] This diagram illustrates the batch definition method (batching) in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 4] In the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1, the diagram showing an example of a current work plan is shown. [Figure 5] A diagram illustrating the outline of the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 6] A diagram illustrating the outline of the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 7] A diagram illustrating the outline of the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 8] This diagram illustrates the method for determining the first lock target task in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 9] This diagram illustrates the method for determining the first lock target task in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 10] This diagram illustrates the method for determining the second lock target task in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 11] This diagram illustrates the method for determining the third lock target task in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 12] This diagram illustrates the assignment of tasks that are not subject to locking in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 13] This diagram illustrates the assignment of tasks that are not subject to locking in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 14] This diagram illustrates the batch division in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 15] This figure shows an example of what is displayed on the display screen of the display unit in the work plan creation device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 16] Flowchart illustrating the processing flow of the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1 [Figure 17] Flowchart illustrating the processing flow of the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1 [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] (Background leading to this disclosure) In recent years, in logistics facilities such as warehouses and logistics centers, cargo handling operations such as storage, picking, and assortment of goods are sometimes performed by automated warehouse systems. However, since logistics facilities handle a wide variety of articles, manual work is indispensable. In other words, in logistics facilities, operations are carried out by workers performing work based on work plans created based on each worker's work shift, goods storage and retrieval instructions, and the like. Nevertheless, when additional work occurs, or depending on the work progress of workers, if work is continued according to the current work plan, there is a possibility that the work will not be completed by the target completion time. In contrast, simply correcting (recreating) the work plan may lead to rework, loss of work time, or stagnation of work.

[0011] Therefore, in the following embodiments, a work plan creation method and a work plan creation apparatus capable of correcting a work plan according to at least the work progress of workers or robots will be described.

[0012] Hereinafter, each embodiment that specifically discloses the work plan creation method and work plan creation apparatus according to the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings as appropriate. However, excessive detailed description may be omitted. For example, detailed description of already well-known matters and redundant description of substantially the same configuration may be omitted. This is to avoid unnecessary redundancy in the following description and to facilitate understanding for those skilled in the art. The accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to allow those skilled in the art to fully understand the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the subject matter recited in the claims.

[0013] (Embodiment 1) <System Configuration> Figure 1 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of a warehouse operations support system 1 including a work plan creation device 200 according to Embodiment 1. Note that the system configuration shown in Figure 1 is just one example, and one system or device may be divided into multiple components, or multiple systems or devices may be combined into one. Furthermore, multiple instances of the single system or device shown in Figure 1 may be provided. Moreover, the processing entities shown below are just examples, and a part of the function of one system or device may be realized as the function of another system or device.

[0014] Warehouse operations support system 1 consists of a work management system 100, a work plan creation device 200, an administrator terminal 300, and a worker terminal 400. Each component of warehouse operations support system 1 is configured to communicate with each other via a network.

[0015] The work management system 100 is a system that manages and controls logistics within the warehouse, and in the configuration example shown in Figure 1, it is positioned above the work plan creation device 200. The work management system 100 manages all aspects of warehouse operations, such as receiving and dispatching goods, storage, inventory management, picking goods, shipping, and inventory monitoring. The work management system 100 is sometimes referred to as a warehouse management system or WMS (Warehouse Management System).

[0016] The work plan creation device 200 is an information processing device that manages and optimizes warehouse operations, and in the configuration example shown in Figure 1, it is located below the work management system 100 and the administrator terminal 300. The work plan creation device 200 manages processes such as receiving, shipping, picking, and packing in real time and creates an optimal work plan. The work plan creation device 200 functions as an interface to a system such as a warehouse operation management system or WES (Warehouse Execution System). The work plan creation device 200 transmits work plans or work instructions to the worker terminal 400. In this specification, the work plan creation device 200 is described as an information processing device, but the various functions and configurations of the work plan creation device may be replaced with cloud computing or the like.

[0017] The administrator terminal 300 is an information processing device such as a PC or tablet owned by the warehouse manager, and in the configuration example shown in Figure 1, it is positioned above the work plan creation device 200. The administrator terminal 300 transmits various parameters (work plan parameters) necessary for creating a work plan, such as the target time for completing the work, to the work plan creation device 200.

[0018] The worker terminal 400 is an information processing device, such as a tablet terminal, carried by each worker, and in the configuration example shown in Figure 1, it is located below the work plan creation device 200. The worker terminal 400 transmits information such as the start and completion of work, as well as the progress of work, to the work plan creation device 200 in real time.

[0019] <Example hardware configuration of a work plan creation device> Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the work plan creation device 200 according to Embodiment 1. The hardware configuration of the work plan creation device 200 described herein is an example, and some parts may be omitted or other parts added as needed.

[0020] The work plan creation device 200 comprises a control unit 11, a storage unit 12, a communication unit 13, an input unit 14, and a display unit 15. Each component is configured to communicate via an internal interface 16.

[0021] The control unit 11 may be configured using, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a GPU (Graphical Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 11 implements various functions described later by, for example, referring to various databases stored in the storage unit 12 or reading programs.

[0022] The memory unit 12 is a memory unit for storing various data and programs, and may consist of volatile / non-volatile memory units such as RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), and HDD (Hard Disk Drive). The memory unit 12 stores the work plan created by the control unit 11, as well as the work time associated with each of the various work processes.

[0023] The communication unit 13 is an interface for communicating with external devices via a network. The communication standards supported by the communication unit 13 are not particularly limited and can be wired or wireless. Furthermore, it may support multiple communication standards. Therefore, the network may be composed of a combination of networks using multiple communication standards.

[0024] The input unit 14 accepts, for example, operations and instructions from an inspector. The input unit 14 may consist of a mouse, keyboard, touch panel display, or the like.

[0025] The display unit 15 displays various user interfaces to the user. The display unit 15 may consist of a liquid crystal display, a touch panel display, a lamp, etc.

[0026] <Example of functional configuration of a work plan creation device> The following describes an example of the functional configuration of the work plan creation device 200 with reference to Figure 1. Each part shown in Figure 1 may be realized, for example, by the control unit 11 reading a program stored in the storage unit 12, or by providing dedicated hardware.

[0027] Note that the configuration shown in Figure 1 is just one example; the parts shown in Figure 1 may be combined into a single configuration, or they may be further divided into more detailed configurations. Also, the links and arrows in Figure 1 show an example of data transmission and reception, but this connection configuration is not the only one that may be used; other connections and linkages may also be used.

[0028] The control unit 11 is comprised of a work plan creation unit 21, a work performance storage unit 22, and a delay time calculation unit 23.

[0029] The work plan creation unit 21 creates a work plan based on work instructions obtained from the work management system 100 and work plan parameters obtained from the administrator terminal 300. The work plan creation unit 21 outputs work instructions to each worker based on the created work plan to each worker terminal 400. The work plan parameters here include "target time for work completion".

[0030] Furthermore, after the commencement of work based on the aforementioned work plan, the work plan creation unit 21 reacquires work instructions from the work management system 100 and reacquires work plan parameters from the administrator terminal 300. Then, the work plan creation unit 21 recreates (or "modifies" in a broad sense, hereinafter the same) the work plan based on the reacquired work instructions and work plan parameters, the work performance of each worker (or robot not shown, hereinafter the same) acquired from the work performance storage unit 22, and the delay time of each worker's work calculated from the delay time calculation unit 23. The work plan creation unit 21 outputs work instructions to each worker based on the recreated work plan to each worker terminal 400 (or robot or device that controls the robot, hereinafter the same).

[0031] The work performance storage unit 22 collects and stores the work performance of each worker based on work progress, such as work start notifications and work completion notifications obtained from each worker terminal 400. The work performance storage unit 22 outputs the collected and stored work performance of each worker to the work plan creation unit 21 and the delay time calculation unit 23.

[0032] The delay time calculation unit 23 calculates the delay time for each worker's work based on the current time, the current work plan, and the work performance data of each worker obtained from the work performance data storage unit 22. The delay time calculation unit 23 outputs the calculated delay time for each worker's work to the work plan creation unit 21.

[0033] <How to define batch B> The method for defining batch B (batching) will be explained below with reference to Figure 3. Figure 3 is a diagram illustrating the method for defining batch B (batching) in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1.

[0034] As mentioned above, once the work plan creation unit 21 creates a work plan, work instructions based on the work plan are output to each worker terminal 400. For example, as shown in Figure 3(a), worker S is assigned a work instruction WO based on the work plan WPL. As shown in Figure 3(b), this work instruction WO includes multiple work processes WP. These multiple work processes WP may be processes with different work content or processes with the same work content. A work process WP is, for example, a process such as picking and packing, and a series of operations including one or more of these work processes WP are managed in batch B units, as shown in Figure 3(c).

[0035] For example, suppose a work instruction (WO) for outbound operations includes the following work steps (WP): "Picking item A," "Picking item B," "Picking item C," "Packing item A into box AA," "Picking item B into box AA," and "Picking item C into box BB." In this case, each of the work steps (WP) – "Picking item A," "Picking item B," "Packing item A into box AA," and "Picking item B into box AA" – constitutes a series of operations for outbound operations. Similarly, each of the work steps (WP) – "Picking item C" and "Picking item C into box BB" – also constitutes a series of operations for outbound operations. In other words, a series of operations formed by combining work steps (WP) can be defined as batch B. On the other hand, depending on the nature of the work, a single work step (WP) can also be defined as a single batch B.

[0036] Furthermore, the individual work processes WP, namely "Picking Item A," "Picking Item B," and "Picking Item C," can also be defined as a series of picking operations collectively known as Batch B. In other words, the series of operations is determined as appropriate and is not limited to those mentioned above.

[0037] Furthermore, the individual work processes WP, excluding "Picking Item A," such as "Picking Item B" and "Picking Item C," can also be defined as a series of picking operations called Batch B. In other words, the grouping of the work processes WP, which constitutes a series of operations for defining Batch B, is determined as appropriate and is not limited to those described above.

[0038] The entity that defines (batches) batch B is not particularly limited. For example, batch B may be defined manually by the owner or manager of the work plan creation device 200, or it may be defined mechanically by the control unit 11 of the work plan creation device 200.

[0039] <Overview of Work Plan Creation Method> The following outline of the work plan creation method will be explained with reference to Figures 4 to 7. Figure 4 is a diagram showing an example of a current work plan in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating the outline of the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. Figure 6 is a diagram illustrating the outline of the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the outline of the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1.

[0040] The following explanation will use the work plan WPL1 shown in Figure 4 as an example. In the work plan WPL1, the vertical axis represents the worker and the horizontal axis represents time, visualizing each work instruction assigned to workers S1 to S4. In other words, in the work plan WPL1, worker S1 is assigned tasks from batch S1B1 to S1B4, worker S2 is assigned tasks from batch S2B1 to S2B20, worker S3 is assigned tasks from batch S3B1 to S3B9, and worker S4 is assigned tasks from batch S4B1 to S4B3.

[0041] In Figure 4, etc., hatching is applied to each batch B for the sake of clarity in explaining the differences in work types. That is, within each batch, if the work type is the same, the same hatching is applied (for example, batch S1B1 and batch S3B1), and if the work types are different, different hatching is applied to each other (for example, batch S1B1 and batch S2B1). In the example in Figure 5, etc., for the sake of explanation, the first point in time when the work results were obtained is considered the current time, but the first point in time may be earlier than the current time. Also, in Figure 5, etc., for the sake of explanation, each batch B in which each worker S1 to S4 has completed work is enclosed in a thick border. Also, in Figure 6, etc., for the sake of explanation, each batch B in which each worker S1 to S4 is performing work is enclosed in a thick dotted border.

[0042] In the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1, the recreation of the work plan is performed after the work plan creation device 200 acquires work results from each worker terminal 400. First, the work plan creation device 200 acquires work results from each worker terminal 400. These work results are "work start notifications" and "work completion notifications" output from each worker terminal 400 to the work results storage unit 22. In this example, as shown in Figure 5, at the first point in time (current time) when the work results are acquired, worker S1 has completed the work for batch S1B1, worker S2 has completed the work up to batch S2B5, and worker S3 has completed the work for batch S3B2.

[0043] In other words, at the first time point (the current time), the work plan creation device 200 has already received notifications of work completion for batch S1B1 and work start for batch S1B2. Similarly, at the first time point (the current time), the work plan creation device 200 has already received notifications of work completion up to batch S2B5 and work start for batch S2B6, as well as notifications of work completion up to batch S3B2 and work start for batch S3B3. In the example in Figure 5, it can be seen that at least worker S1 has only completed work for batch S1B1 as of the current time, indicating that a work delay has occurred.

[0044] Next, the work plan creation device 200 identifies batch B currently being performed by each worker S1 to S4 based on the acquired work performance of each worker S1 to S4. In this example, as shown in Figure 6, batches S1B2, S2B6, and S3B3, which have received work start notifications but have not received work completion notifications, are identified as the work currently being performed by each worker S1 to S3.

[0045] Next, the work plan creation device 200 sets the identified batch B currently being performed as work not to be modified, and creates a work plan with the remaining work being work to be modified. In this example, as shown in Figure 7, batches S1B2, S2B6, and S3B3 are work not to be modified, while batches S1B3 to S1B5, S2B7 to S2B20, S3B4 to S3B9, and S4B1 to S4B3 are work to be modified.

[0046] In this specification, setting a specified batch B that is currently running as an operation that is not subject to modification is referred to as "locking batch B." An operation that is not subject to modification is referred to as a "locked operation." Therefore, an operation that is subject to modification can be rephrased as an "operation not subject to lock." Furthermore, locking batch B effectively locks the duration of the locked operation. Therefore, the duration of the locked operation is referred to as the "locked time" (see below).

[0047] <Method for determining the first lock target operation> The method for determining the first locked task will be explained below with reference to Figures 8 and 9. Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating the method for determining the first locked task in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. Figure 9 is a diagram illustrating the method for determining the first locked task in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. In Figures 8 and others, for the sake of explanation, the arrow Y1 represents a predetermined time (see below).

[0048] In the first method for determining the tasks to be locked, batch B (including previous batch B) that will be started between the first point in time (the current time) and a predetermined time is determined to be the tasks to be locked.

[0049] The predetermined time here may be a pre-set time, or it may be a time calculated based on the delay time calculated by the delay time calculation unit 23. When calculated based on the delay time, for example, the work speed of each worker S1 to S4 is calculated based on this delay time, and the predetermined time to be applied to each worker S1 to S4 is calculated based on the calculated work speed of each worker S1 to S4. In other words, a longer predetermined time is set for workers with a faster work speed (worker S2 in this example), and a shorter predetermined time is set for workers with a slower work speed (worker S1 in this example).

[0050] In this example, as shown in Figure 8, for worker S1, the work on batch S1B3 will begin between the first time point (current time) and the predetermined time. Therefore, as shown in Figure 9, for worker S1, batches S1B2 (in progress) and S1B3 are determined to be locked tasks. Similarly, for worker S2, the work on batch S2B6 will begin between the first time point (current time) and the predetermined time (see Figure 8). Therefore, for worker S2, batches S2B6 (in progress) and batches S2B7 to S2B10 are determined to be locked tasks (see Figure 9). Similarly, for worker S3, the work on batch S3B3 will begin between the first time point (current time) and the predetermined time (see Figure 8). Therefore, for worker S2, batches S3B3 (in progress) and S3B4 are determined to be locked tasks (see Figure 9).

[0051] In other words, as shown in Figure 9, batches S1B4 to S1B5, S2B11 to S2B20, S3B5 to S3B9, and S4B1 to S4B3 are operations that are not subject to locking.

[0052] <Method for determining the second type of work to be locked> The method for determining the second lock target operation will be explained below with reference to Figure 10. Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the method for determining the second lock target operation in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. In Figure 10, for the sake of explanation, the arrow Y2 represents the additional lock time.

[0053] In the second method for determining the tasks to be locked, if one or more batches of the same type of work as batch B, which will start between the first time point (current time) and a predetermined time, are scheduled to be completed between the predetermined time and a certain time, then these one or more batches of batch B are determined to be the tasks to be locked. The certain time here is set as appropriate and is not particularly limited.

[0054] In this example, as shown in Figure 10, for worker S1, the work on batch S1B3 will begin between the first time point (current time) and a predetermined time, and the work on batches S1B4 to S1B5, which are of the same type as batch S1B3, is scheduled to be completed between the predetermined time and a certain time. Therefore, for worker S1, batches S1B2 to S1B5 are determined to be locked tasks. Similarly, for worker S2, the work on batch S2B6 will begin between the first time point (current time) and a predetermined time, and the work on batches S2B7 to S2B20, which are of the same type as batch S2B6, is scheduled to be completed between the predetermined time and a certain time. Therefore, for worker S2, batches S2B6 to S2B20 are determined to be locked tasks. Similarly, for worker S3, the work on batch S3B3 will begin between the first point in time (the current time) and a predetermined time, and the work on batches S3B4 to S3B5, which are of the same type as batch S3B3, is scheduled to be completed between the predetermined time and a certain time later. In addition, for worker S3, the type of work will switch between batch S3B5 and batch S3B6 between the predetermined time and a certain time later. For this reason, batches S3B3 to S3B5 are determined to be locked tasks for worker S3.

[0055] <Method for determining the third type of work to be locked> The method for determining the third lock target operation will be explained below with reference to Figure 11. Figure 11 is a diagram illustrating the method for determining the third lock target operation in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1.

[0056] The third method for determining the tasks to be locked concerns tasks performed by worker S (worker S4 in this example) who is not currently working at the first time point (the present time). In this third method for determining the tasks to be locked, if worker S is not currently working at the first time point (the present time), batch B that worker S will perform between the present time and a predetermined time is determined to be the task to be locked.

[0057] In this example, as shown in Figure 11, worker S4 is not performing any work at the first point in time (the current time). Therefore, for worker S4, batch S4B1, which will be performed between the current time and the predetermined time, is determined to be the work subject to locking.

[0058] Furthermore, the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1 may employ any of the first to third methods for determining the lock target work described above, or a combination thereof as appropriate.

[0059] <Assignment of tasks not subject to locking> The assignment of tasks not subject to locking will be explained below with reference to Figures 12 and 13. Figure 12 is a diagram illustrating the assignment of tasks not subject to locking in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the assignment of tasks not subject to locking in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. In Figure 13, for the sake of explanation, the lock time is represented by arrow Y3.

[0060] The work plan creation device 200 creates a work plan such that, if worker S is working at a first point in time (original time), it does not assign the work to be modified to worker S until the work duration (lock time) of the locked work has elapsed.

[0061] In this example, as shown in Figure 12, workers S1 to S3 are working. For worker S1, batches S1B2 to S1B3 are designated as locked tasks. For worker S2, batches S2B6 to S2B10 are designated as locked tasks. For worker S3, batches S3B3 to S3B4 are designated as locked tasks. Therefore, as shown in Figure 13, for worker S1, the time required for batches S1B2 to S1B3 becomes the locked time, and no non-locked tasks are assigned to this locked time. Similarly, for worker S2, the time required for batches S2B6 to S2B10 becomes the locked time, and no non-locked tasks are assigned to this locked time. Similarly, for worker S3, the time required for batches S3B3 to S3B4 becomes the locked time, and no non-locked tasks are assigned to this locked time.

[0062] Furthermore, if worker S is not currently working at the first time point (the present time), the work plan creation device 200 creates a work plan such that it does not assign the work to be modified to worker S between the present time and a predetermined time.

[0063] In this example, as shown in Figure 12, worker S4 is not currently working. Therefore, as shown in Figure 13, a predetermined period of time becomes a lock period for worker S4, and no work that is not subject to locking is assigned during this lock period.

[0064] In this way, when the work plan creation device 200 recreates the work plan, it creates the work plan by ensuring that no non-locked tasks are assigned to each worker S1 to S4 during each lock time, and then assigning non-locked tasks as appropriate after each lock time has elapsed.

[0065] <Batch splitting> The batch division will be explained below with reference to Figure 14. Figure 14 is a diagram illustrating the batch division in the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1.

[0066] The following explanation uses batch S3Bn of worker S3, as shown in Figure 14, as an example. Batch S3Bn is the batch that has been determined to be locked. Therefore, for worker S3, the time required for batch S3Bn becomes the lock time x.

[0067] If this lock time x is longer than the remaining work time y, which is the difference between the target work completion time and the current time, then worker S3's work completion time will exceed the target work completion time. For this reason, in the above case, the work planning device 200 determines that it is necessary to split batch S3Bn. If it is possible to split batch S3Bn, the work planning device 200 preferably splits batch S3Bn so that the lock time x is shorter than the remaining work time y, and more preferably splits batch S3Bn by the excess time, which is the difference between the lock time x and the remaining work time y. However, if it is not possible to split batch S3Bn, the work planning device 200 removes batch S3Bn from the locked work. Batch S3Bn that has been removed from the locked work becomes a non-locked work that is assigned to other workers S1-S2, S4. In this case, the work planning device 200 may decompose batch S3Bn into work process WP units.

[0068] Furthermore, a threshold is set for the lock time x from the perspective of work efficiency. In other words, if the lock time x is greater than or equal to the threshold, work efficiency may decrease. For this reason, in the aforementioned case, the work plan creation device 200 determines that it is necessary to split batch S3Bn. If it is possible to split batch S3Bn, the work plan creation device 200 splits batch S3Bn so that the lock time x is less than the threshold. However, if it is not possible to split batch S3Bn, the work plan creation device 200 decomposes batch S3Bn into work process WP units.

[0069] <Example of display on the screen> The following describes examples of displays on the display screen UI of the display unit 15, etc., with reference to Figure 15. Figure 15 is a diagram showing an example of a display on the display screen UI of the display unit 15 in the work plan creation device 200 according to Embodiment 1.

[0070] Before the work plan is recreated, the display screen UI shows the current work plan with the work results reflected, as shown in (a). After the work plan is recreated, the display screen UI shows the recreated work plan, as shown in (b). The display screen UI mainly transitions in this order, for example, between "(current or recreated) work plan," "work plan with work results reflected," "work plan recreation screen," and "recreated work plan." The "work plan recreation screen" accepts input for recreating the work plan, such as selecting tasks to be locked or redefining batch B for tasks that are not locked.

[0071] <Process flow for creating a work plan> The following describes the process flow of the work plan creation method with reference to Figures 16 and 17. Figure 16 is a flowchart illustrating the process flow of the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1. Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating the process flow of the work plan creation method according to Embodiment 1.

[0072] The processing flow of the work plan creation method described below is a suitable combination of the various methods and functions mentioned above. Therefore, some of the processes described below may be omitted, and other processes may be added. In this example, the processing unit is described as the control unit 11 of the work plan creation device 200, but some functions may be configured to be executed by other parts.

[0073] The control unit 11 obtains work instructions from the work management system 100 and work plan parameters from the administrator terminal 300 (Sp101). The work plan parameters here include the target time for completing the work.

[0074] The control unit 11 creates a work plan based on the work instructions and work plan parameters (Sp102). The work instructions for each worker based on the work plan created here are output to each worker terminal 400. In this step, the batching of multiple work processes included in the work instructions may be performed mechanically by the control unit 11 or manually by the owner of the work plan creation device 200. If batching is performed manually, the control unit 11 accepts input from the owner of the work plan creation device 200 in this step.

[0075] The control unit 11 acquires work start information from each worker terminal 400 or administrator terminal 300, etc. (Sp103).

[0076] The control unit 11 retrieves work instructions from the work management system 100 and work plan parameters from the administrator terminal 300 (Sp104).

[0077] The control unit 11 acquires work performance data from each worker terminal 400 (Sp105). Here, work start notifications and work completion notifications are acquired in real time.

[0078] The control unit 11 identifies the work (batch) that each worker is currently performing based on the acquired work performance data (Sp106).

[0079] The control unit 11 calculates the delay time for each worker's work based on the work plan created in step Sp102 and the work (batch) currently being performed by each worker identified in step Sp106 (Sp107). Note that this step may be omitted.

[0080] The control unit 11 calculates the work speed of each worker based on the calculated delay time (Sp108). Note that if step Sp107 is omitted, this step is also omitted.

[0081] The control unit 11 calculates a predetermined time for locking the work based on the calculated work speed of each worker (Sp109). This predetermined time varies depending on the work speed of each worker. If step Sp107 is omitted, this step is also omitted. In other words, this predetermined time is assumed to be set in advance.

[0082] The control unit 11 determines the task to be locked for each worker based on a predetermined time (Sp110).

[0083] The control unit 11 determines whether or not there is a change of operation within a certain time period from the determined lock target operation (Sp111). If there is a change of operation within a certain time period from the lock target operation (YES in Sp111), the control unit 11 proceeds to step Sp112. On the other hand, if there is no change of operation within a certain time period from the lock target operation (NO in Sp111), the control unit 11 proceeds to step Sp113.

[0084] The control unit 11 determines that the tasks (batches) up to the switchover time will be additionally locked tasks (Sp112). Then, the control unit 11 proceeds to step Sp113. At this point, if there are tasks (batches) of the same type as the locked tasks (batches) that are scheduled to be completed within the aforementioned time frame, these scheduled tasks (batches) are also determined to be locked tasks.

[0085] The control unit 11 determines whether or not it is necessary to split the batch that has been selected as the task to be locked (Sp113). If it is necessary to split the batch (YES in Sp113), the control unit 11 proceeds to step Sp114. On the other hand, if it is not necessary to split the batch (NO in Sp113), the control unit 11 proceeds to step Sp117.

[0086] The control unit 11 determines whether the batch in question can be disassembled (Sp114). If the batch in question can be disassembled (YES in Sp114), the control unit 11 proceeds to step Sp115. On the other hand, if the batch in question cannot be disassembled (NO in Sp114), the control unit 11 proceeds to step Sp116.

[0087] The control unit 11 disassembles the batch in question (Sp115). Then, the control unit 11 proceeds to step Sp117.

[0088] The control unit 11 removes the relevant batch from the locked operations (Sp116). Then, the control unit 11 proceeds to step Sp117.

[0089] The control unit 11 confirms the tasks to be locked up to this step as tasks to be locked for creating the Saigyo plan (Sp117).

[0090] The control unit 11 breaks down the batch of non-locked tasks into individual work processes and adds the new work processes acquired in step Sp105 to the non-locked tasks (Sp118). Note that if breaking down the non-locked batch is unnecessary or impossible, it does not need to be done.

[0091] The control unit 11 batches the disassembled work process with the new work process (Sp119). If this batching is performed manually, this step is replaced with "receiving input for batching," etc.

[0092] The control unit 11 recreates the work plan (Sp120) to assign the non-lockable tasks (batches) that were not broken down in step Sp118 and the newly batched tasks in step Sp119 to each worker. Here, the control unit 11 creates the work plan so as not to assign any tasks (batches) to each worker during their lock time. Then, the control unit 11 proceeds to step Sp104.

[0093] As described above, the work plan is created and recreated. The operation of the control unit 11 described above may be performed continuously or at predetermined timings. In the above description, the case of modifying (recreating) the "work plan created by the control unit 11 of the work plan creation device 200" in accordance with the work progress of each worker was used as an example, but this disclosure also allows for the modification of "work plans created by a device or system different from the work plan creation device 200". Furthermore, in the above description, the case of modifying the work plan in accordance with the work progress of "each worker" was used as an example, but this disclosure also allows for the modification of the work plan in accordance with the work progress of "each robot" or "each worker and each robot". Furthermore, in the above description, the case of modifying the work plan in accordance with the work progress of "multiple workers" was used as an example, but this disclosure also allows for the modification of the work plan in accordance with the work progress of "one worker" or "one robot".

[0094] As described above, the work plan creation method and work plan creation apparatus according to Embodiment 1 can modify the work plan in accordance with at least the work progress of the worker or robot.

[0095] (Other variations) This disclosure also applies to programs and storage media that supply programs that realize the functions of the apparatus of the above-described embodiment to the apparatus via a network or various storage media, and which are read and executed by a computer within the apparatus.

[0096] Although various embodiments have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that this disclosure is not limited to these examples. It will be clear to those skilled in the art that various modifications, alterations, substitutions, additions, deletions, and equivalents can occur within the scope of the claims, and these will naturally fall within the technical scope of this disclosure. Furthermore, the components of the various embodiments described above can be combined arbitrarily without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0097] (Note) The following technologies are disclosed based on the above description of embodiments.

[0098] <Technology 1> Obtain work instructions and target completion times. At a minimum, obtain the work progress of the worker or robot, At the first point in time when the work progress is obtained, the work processes being performed by the worker and the robot related to the obtained work progress, and the work processes from the first point in time to a predetermined time are set as tasks that are not subject to modification. After the predetermined time has elapsed, a work plan is created for the work process to be modified. How to create a work plan.

[0099] This configuration prevents work from being interrupted, not only when revising (recreating) the work plan, but also when creating the work plan, thus preventing rework, loss of work time, and work stagnation.

[0100] <Technology 2> A series of tasks involving one or more work steps are managed in batch units. At the first point in time, the batch being performed by the worker and the robot related to the acquired work progress is set as work not subject to modification. The method for creating a work plan as described in Technical 1.

[0101] This configuration allows for batch-based work management, leading to increased work efficiency, simplified management of work progress, and greater flexibility in work planning.

[0102] <Technology 3> A batch of work that will be started between the first time point and the predetermined time is set as work that is not subject to modification. The method for creating a work plan as described in Technical Section 2.

[0103] This configuration prevents work that starts while the work plan is being revised from being interrupted after the work plan has been created, thus preventing rework, lost work time, and work stagnation.

[0104] <Technology 4> If one or more batches of the same type of work as the batch whose work will begin between the first time point and the predetermined time are scheduled to be completed between the time elapsed and a certain time, then the one or more batches are set as work not subject to modification. The method for creating a work plan as described in Technical Section 3.

[0105] This configuration helps maintain consistency in the work and facilitates efficient progress.

[0106] <Technology 5> If it is determined that a predetermined batch that falls under the category of work not subject to modification needs to be split, the predetermined batch will be split into multiple batches. The method for creating a work plan according to claim 2.

[0107] This configuration reduces the risk of work delays and allows for greater flexibility in creating work plans.

[0108] <Technology 6> If it is determined that the predetermined batch cannot be split, the predetermined batch is removed from the work that is not subject to modification. The method for creating a work plan as described in Technical Section 5.

[0109] This configuration reduces the risk of work delays and allows for greater flexibility in creating work plans.

[0110] <Technology 7> If the worker or robot is not performing any work at the first time point, the work processes performed by the worker and robot that are not performing any work between the present time and the predetermined time will be set as work not subject to modification. A work plan creation method described in any one of Techniques 1 through 6.

[0111] This configuration prevents work rework, lost work time, and work stagnation, as work started while a worker or robot is modifying the work plan will not be interrupted after the work plan has been created.

[0112] <Technology 8> If a worker or robot is performing a task at the first time point, the work plan is created such that the work subject to modification is not assigned to the worker or robot while the time required for the non-modified task has elapsed. If the worker or robot is not performing the work at the first time point, the work plan is created so as not to assign the work to be modified to the worker or robot that is not performing the work at the time point from now until the predetermined time. A work plan creation method described in any one of Techniques 1 through 7.

[0113] This configuration reduces the burden on workers or robots caused by changes in the work plan.

[0114] <Technology 9> Based on the acquired work progress, the work speeds of the worker and the robot related to the acquired work progress are calculated. Based on the calculated work speed, the predetermined time is determined for each worker and robot involved in the acquired work progress. A work plan creation method described in any one of Techniques 1 through 8.

[0115] This configuration allows for the creation of flexible and more appropriate work plans based on the progress and capabilities of each worker and robot involved in the acquired work progress.

[0116] <Technology 10> A work planning device 200 comprising a work planning unit 21 that acquires work instructions and target work completion times, and a work performance storage unit 22 that acquires work progress of at least a worker or robot, The aforementioned work plan creation unit 21 is: At the first point in time when the work progress is obtained, the work processes being performed by the worker and the robot related to the obtained work progress, and the work processes from the first point in time to a predetermined time are set as non-modifiable tasks, and the work processes after the predetermined time has elapsed are set as modifiable tasks, and a work plan is created. Work plan creation device 200.

[0117] This configuration ensures that work processes are not interrupted when the work plan is revised, and that work is not interrupted while the work plan is being revised. This prevents rework, loss of work time, and work stagnation. [Industrial applicability]

[0118] This disclosure is useful as a work plan creation method and work plan creation apparatus that can modify the work plan in accordance with the work progress of at least the worker or robot. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0119] 11 Control Unit 21. Work Planning Department 22. Work Performance Accumulation Department 23 Delay Time Calculation Unit 100 Work Management Systems 200 Work planning device 300 Administrator terminals 400 worker terminals

Claims

1. Obtain work instructions and target completion times. At a minimum, obtain the work progress of the worker or robot, At the first point in time when the work progress is obtained, the work processes being performed by the worker and the robot related to the obtained work progress, and the work processes from the first point in time to a predetermined time are set as work not subject to modification. After the predetermined time has elapsed, a work plan is created for the work process to be modified. How to create a work plan.

2. A series of tasks involving one or more work steps are managed in batch units. At the first point in time, the batch being performed by the worker and the robot related to the acquired work progress is set as work not subject to modification. A method for creating a work plan according to claim 1.

3. A batch of work that will be started between the first time point and the predetermined time is set as work that is not subject to modification. The method for creating a work plan according to claim 2.

4. If one or more batches of the same type of work as the batch whose work will begin between the first time point and the predetermined time are scheduled to be completed between the elapsed time and a certain time, then the one or more batches are set as work not subject to modification. A method for creating a work plan according to claim 3.

5. If it is determined that a predetermined batch that falls under the category of work not subject to modification needs to be split, the predetermined batch will be split into multiple batches. The method for creating a work plan according to claim 2.

6. If it is determined that the predetermined batch cannot be split, the predetermined batch is removed from the work that is not subject to modification. The method for creating a work plan according to claim 5.

7. If the worker or robot is not performing any work at the first time point, the work processes performed by the worker and robot that are not performing any work between the present time and the predetermined time will be set as work not subject to modification. The method for creating a work plan according to claim 1.

8. If a worker or robot is performing a task at the first time point, the work plan is created such that the work subject to modification is not assigned to the worker or robot while they are performing the task, until the time required for the non-modified task has elapsed. If the worker or robot is not performing any work at the first time point, the work plan is created so as not to assign the work to be modified to the worker or robot that is not performing any work between the present time and the predetermined time. The method for creating a work plan according to claim 1.

9. Based on the acquired work progress, the work speeds of the worker and the robot related to the acquired work progress are calculated. Based on the calculated work speed, the predetermined time is determined for each worker and robot involved in the acquired work progress. The method for creating a work plan according to claim 1.

10. A work planning device comprising a work planning unit that acquires work instructions and target work completion times, and a work performance storage unit that acquires work progress of at least a worker or robot, The aforementioned work plan creation unit, At the first point in time in which the work progress is obtained, the work processes being performed by the worker and the robot related to the obtained work progress, and the work processes from the first point in time to a predetermined time are set as non-modifiable tasks, and the work processes after the predetermined time has elapsed are set as modifiable tasks, and a work plan is created. Work plan creation device.

Images