Visualization method, visualization device, and program

Abstract

To provide a visualization method for easily grasping a progress state of work performed by a person in charge of the work.SOLUTION: A method for visualizing a progress state of warehousing work in simulation of the warehousing work displays a first graphic corresponding to a workload of the warehousing work at a specific location associated with the person in charge of the work on the basis of warehousing work assigned to the person in charge of the work of a warehouse in the simulation, and displays a second graphic corresponding to the progress status of the warehousing work overlaid on the first graphic in response to the progress of the warehousing work by the person in charge of the work.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a visualization method, a visualization device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, simulations have been performed for work at sites such as warehouses, etc. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system that simulates the operation of an automated warehouse in order to optimize the warehouse automation design. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2020-520526 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] A simulation of warehouse work is displayed, for example, on a display device and visually confirmed by a user such as a warehouse manager. In the simulation of warehouse work, for example, warehouse workers (note that the term "worker" includes figures, symbols, marks, images, etc. that allow the user to recognize the person or robot working in the simulation) may move around the warehouse while performing work. For example, when the entire warehouse in the simulation is displayed in a bird's-eye view on the display device, if the size of the worker working in the warehouse is small, it may be difficult for the user to find the worker. As a result, it may be difficult for the user to grasp the progress of the work by the worker.

[0005] The present disclosure has been devised in view of the above-described conventional situation, and aims to easily grasp the progress of work by workers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The present disclosure relates to a method for visualizing the progress of warehouse work in a simulation of the warehouse work, the method comprising: visualizing the progress of warehouse work assigned to warehouse workers in the simulation; The amount of work Based on Calculating the height of the first solid body corresponding to the amount of work performed in the warehouse; A specific location associated with the worker is Record number 1 of three-dimensional and, depending on the progress of the warehouse work by the worker, Calculating the height of the second solid corresponding to the progress of the warehouse work; The first three-dimensional Stacked on top of Record number 2 three-dimensional Provides a visualization method to display

[0007] The present disclosure also provides a method for managing warehouse operations by using a processor and a memory, wherein the processor and the memory cooperate to display a simulation of warehouse operations on a display device capable of data communication with the processor, and the warehouse operations assigned to warehouse workers in the simulation are displayed. The amount of work Based on a height of a first solid corresponding to the amount of warehouse work; and A specific location associated with the worker is Record number 1 of three-dimensional and, depending on the progress of the warehouse work by the worker, The height of the second solid corresponding to the progress of the warehouse work is calculated, and displayed on the display device. The first three-dimensional Stacked on top of Record number 2 three-dimensional A visualization device is provided that displays the above.

[0008] The present disclosure also provides a method for causing a computing device to execute a simulation of warehouse work, and for calculating the warehouse work assigned to a warehouse worker in the simulation. The amount of work Based on Calculating the height of the first solid body corresponding to the amount of work performed in the warehouse; A specific location associated with the worker is Record number 1 of three-dimensional and, depending on the progress of the warehouse work by the worker, Calculating the height of the second solid corresponding to the progress of the warehouse work; The first three-dimensional Stacked on top of Record number 2 three-dimensional A program for displaying the above is provided.

[0009] Any combination of the above components, and conversion of the expression of the present disclosure into a method, device, system, storage medium, computer program, etc., are also valid aspects of the present disclosure. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present disclosure, the progress of work by workers can be easily grasped. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] Schematic diagram for explaining an example of visualization of a conventional simulation [Figure 2] Schematic diagram for explaining an example of visualization of a conventional simulation [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a visualization device according to a first embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of visualization of work progress according to the first embodiment; [Figure 5] 1 is a flowchart showing the processing of the visualization device according to the first embodiment; [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a visualization example of a simulation according to the first embodiment; [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram for explaining a visualization example of a simulation according to the first embodiment; [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of visualization of work progress according to a modification of the first embodiment; [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of visualization of work progress according to a modification of the first embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings as appropriate, detailed descriptions of embodiments specifically disclosing the visualization method, visualization device, and program according to the present disclosure will be provided. However, more detailed descriptions than necessary may be omitted. For example, detailed descriptions of well-known matters and redundant descriptions of substantially identical configurations may be omitted. This is to avoid unnecessary redundancy in the following description and to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art. Note that the accompanying drawings and the following description are provided to enable 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] (Background to this disclosure) 1 and 2 are schematic diagrams illustrating an example of visualization of a conventional simulation. FIG. 1 shows a warehouse model 10. The warehouse model 10 is a model created to simulate a real warehouse, for simulating work and the like in the warehouse. The warehouse model 10 is, for example, a model in a multi-agent system.

[0014] A simulation executed using the warehouse model 10 is displayed on a display device such as a monitor. In other words, the simulation is visualized. This allows a user, such as a manager of a real warehouse, to visually confirm the state of the simulation. Hereinafter, the terms "displayed," "visualized," and "rendered" are used synonymously.

[0015] In this specification, each figure may be explained using a three-dimensional coordinate system consisting of an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis. The XY plane is a plane parallel to the warehouse floor, and the axis perpendicular to the XY plane is the Z-axis. In each figure, the orientation of the three-dimensional coordinate system corresponds. In each figure, the direction of the arrow in the coordinate system shown in the figure is positive, and the direction opposite the arrow is negative. For ease of explanation, the positive direction of the Z-axis may be referred to as "up" and the negative direction of the Z-axis as "down." Note that the configuration of each axis is an example and is not limited to this.

[0016] In the example of FIG. 1, a simulation is performed in which six workers (note that the term "worker" includes figures, symbols, marks, images, etc. that allow a user to recognize the person or robot performing the work in the simulation) pick items stored in a warehouse. Of the six workers, the following description focuses on worker 20. As shown in FIG. 2, worker 20 performs the picking work using loading and unloading equipment 21. Loading and unloading equipment 21 may be, for example, a pallet jack. Loading and unloading equipment 21 displayed in the simulation may also be figures, symbols, marks, images, etc. that allow a user to recognize the loading and unloading equipment. In this case, even if a user can visually recognize worker 20 and loading and unloading equipment 21 in the visualized simulation, it is difficult for the user to grasp the progress of the picking work performed by worker 20. In other words, with the conventional simulation visualization techniques such as those shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, it is difficult for a user viewing the visualized simulation to grasp the progress of the work performed by the workers. Furthermore, for example, if the warehouse is large, the size of the workers relative to the size of the warehouse will be small when the entire warehouse is viewed from above on a display device, etc. In this case, it will be difficult for the user to find the workers performing the work in the visualized simulation.

[0017] Therefore, in the following embodiment, a visualization method that allows a user to easily grasp the progress of work by workers will be described.

[0018] (Embodiment 1) First, an example of the hardware configuration of the visualization device 30 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. The visualization device 30 helps a user understand the progress of work performed by workers in a simulation by visualizing the progress. The visualization device 30 is configured using a general-purpose computer device, such as a personal computer or a server computer. The visualization device 30 is used by a user, such as a warehouse manager. Hereinafter, the visualization device 30 may be referred to as a computing device.

[0019] Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a visualization device 30 according to embodiment 1. The visualization device 30 includes a processor 31, a memory 32, an input device 33, a display device 34, a communication device 35, and an external interface device 36. The components included in the visualization device 30 are connected to each other via an internal bus 37 so as to enable data communication. Note that the configuration shown in Fig. 3 is an example and is not limited to this.

[0020] The processor 31 is configured using, for example, a central processing unit (hereinafter referred to as "CPU"), a graphics processing unit (hereinafter referred to as "GPU"), a micro processing unit (hereinafter referred to as "MPU"), a digital signal processor (hereinafter referred to as "DSP"), or a field programmable gate array (hereinafter referred to as "FPGA"), etc. The processor 31 realizes the functions of the visualization device 30 by reading and executing various data and programs stored and held in the memory 32.

[0021] The memory 32 is a storage area for storing and holding various data, programs, etc. The memory 32 is composed of, for example, a read only memory (hereinafter referred to as "ROM"), which is a non-volatile storage area, a hard disk drive (hereinafter referred to as "HDD"), and a random access memory (hereinafter referred to as "RAM"), which is a volatile storage area. The RAM is, for example, a work memory used during operation of the visualization device 30. The ROM stores and holds, for example, programs for controlling the visualization device 30 in advance.

[0022] The input device 33 includes a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, or other input devices, and receives input of various data and the like through user operations.

[0023] The display device 34 is a device that displays data such as information or images. Examples of the display device 34 include a liquid crystal display, an organic electroluminescence (hereinafter referred to as "EL") display, and the like.

[0024] The input device 33 and the display device 34 may be configured as an integrated device. An example of the input device 33 and the display device 34 configured as an integrated device is a touch panel display.

[0025] The communication device 35 communicates with external systems or devices via a network (not shown) and transmits and receives various data or signals. The communication device 35 may support both wired and wireless communication. The communication method used by the communication device 35 may be, for example, a Wide Area Network (hereinafter referred to as "WAN"), a Local Area Network (hereinafter referred to as "LAN"), Long Term Evolution (hereinafter referred to as "LTE"), mobile communication such as 5G, power line communication, short-range wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (registered trademark) and Bluetooth (registered trademark), or a combination of these.

[0026] The external interface device 36 is an interface for transmitting and receiving data to and from an external system or device.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of visualization of work progress according to the first embodiment. A worker 40 shown in FIG. 4 is visualized and displayed for simulating warehouse work. Here, the warehouse work is assumed to be picking items. The worker 40 carries a loading / unloading device 41 for the picking work. Note that the worker display forms shown in FIG. 4 and in each of FIGS. 7, 8, and 9 described below are forms in which a specific worker is enlarged and displayed when the user selects, for example, a click on the specific worker on a screen displaying an overview of the entire warehouse.

[0028] As explained with reference to Figures 1 and 2, it is difficult for a user viewing the visualized simulation to grasp the progress of worker 40's picking work, even if worker 40 is performing the picking work, simply by visualizing worker 40 carrying loading and unloading equipment 41.

[0029] In the first embodiment, based on the warehouse work assigned to the worker 40, a first graphic corresponding to the workload of the warehouse work is displayed at a specific position linked to the worker 40. In the example of FIG. 4, when picking work is assigned to the worker 40, in other words, when a pick list is assigned, a first graphic 42 is displayed on the loading and unloading equipment 41.

[0030] In this specification, the term picklist is used to mean a list that instructs warehouse workers on how many items of one or more types of items stored in the warehouse to pick and in what order.

[0031] The specific position associated with the worker 40 may be, for example, on top of loading and unloading equipment 41 used by the worker 40 for warehouse work, as in the example of FIG. 4. However, the specific position is not limited to being on top of loading and unloading equipment 41, and may be set arbitrarily by the user. For example, the specific position may be set to be above the head of the worker 40.

[0032] In the example of FIG. 4 , the first figure 42 is a rectangular parallelepiped. Hereinafter, the first figure 42 may be referred to as the first rectangular parallelepiped. The first figure 42 is drawn, or in other words, visualized, so that its height is picklist_num*L. picklist_num is the number of times the worker 40 picks an item, as indicated by the picklist. For example, if the picklist indicates that the worker 40 picks an item 10 times, picklist_num is 10. L is a positive number preset by the user. The first figure 42 is visualized so that its height is the product of the value of picklist_num and the value of L. Since the value of picklist_num corresponds to the workload of the picking work, the first figure 42 corresponds to the workload of the picking work assigned to the worker 40. Hereinafter, the number of times the worker picks an item, as indicated by the picklist, may be referred to as the number of picks.

[0033] The worker 40 picks items based on the assigned pick list. As the worker 40 progresses with the picking operation, a second graphic 43A corresponding to the progress of the picking operation is displayed over the first graphic 42. In the example of FIG. 4, the second graphic 43A is a rectangular parallelepiped. Hereinafter, the second graphic 43A may be referred to as the second rectangular parallelepiped. Note that the width (e.g., the length in the Y direction; the same applies hereinafter) and depth (e.g., the length in the X direction; the same applies hereinafter) of the first rectangular parallelepiped and the second rectangular parallelepiped are equal. The second graphic 43A is drawn, or in other words, visualized, so that its height is picked_num*L. The picked_num is the number of times the worker 40 has picked an item. For example, if the worker 40 has picked an item three times, the picked_num is 3. The second graphic 43A is visualized so that its height is the product of the value of picked_num and the value of L. Since the value of picked_num corresponds to the progress of the picking operation, the second graphic 43A corresponds to the progress of the picking operation by the worker 40.

[0034] When worker 40 repeatedly picks items and completes the picking work based on the pick list assigned to worker 40, the height of visualized second graphic 43A becomes equal to the height of first graphic 42. In other words, when worker 40 completes the picking work, first graphic 42 and second graphic 43 appear to be completely overlapped to a user viewing the simulation.

[0035] The heights of the three first rectangular parallelepipeds (first figures 42) shown in FIG. 4 are all the same.

[0036] The colors of the first graphic 42 and the second graphic 43A are set so that the user can distinguish between them. For example, the second graphic 43A is drawn in a darker color than the first graphic 42. Specifically, for example, the first graphic 42 may be drawn in a light green color, and the second graphic 43A may be drawn in a dark green color. Alternatively, for example, the first graphic 42 may be drawn in red, and the second graphic 43A may be drawn in blue, so that the user can distinguish between the first graphic 42 and the second graphic 43A. Note that the colors of the first graphic 42 and the second graphic 43A may be set in advance by the user.

[0037] A user viewing the simulation can confirm the workload of the picking work by looking at a first graphic 42 visualized on loading and unloading equipment 41 used by worker 40 for the picking work. The user can then confirm the progress of the picking work by looking at the first graphic 42 and the second graphic 43A visualized as worker 40 performs the picking work. When worker 40 completes the picking work, the first graphic 42 and the second graphic 43A appear to overlap, allowing the user to confirm that the picking work has been completed.

[0038] As will be described later with reference to FIG. 6, by visualizing the first graphic 42 or the second graphic 43A, it becomes easier for a user viewing the simulation to understand where the worker 40 is located within the warehouse model.

[0039] In the example of Figure 4, the first figure 42 and the second figure 43A are rectangular parallelepipeds. However, this is not limited to this, and the types of the figures of the first figure 42 and the second figure 43A may be set arbitrarily. For example, the first figure 42 and the second figure 43A may each be a cylinder. However, the type of the figure of the first figure 42 and the second figure 43A is the same.

[0040] In the first embodiment, as described with reference to FIG. 4, a second graphic corresponding to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker is displayed superimposed on the first graphic. However, for example, each time worker 40 picks an item, a third graphic 43B having a height of L may be drawn stacked on top. This is because the height of second graphic 43A is equal to the total height of all stacked third graphics 43B having a height of L when the number of third graphics 43B indicated by picked_num are stacked on top. Note that third graphic 43B is a rectangular parallelepiped, and its width and depth are equal to those of the second rectangular parallelepiped, respectively. Hereinafter, third graphic 43B may be referred to as the third rectangular parallelepiped.

[0041] Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing of visualization device 30 according to the first embodiment. The processing of visualization device 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Note that the description of this flowchart is based on the premise that visualization device 30 executes a simulation of a picking operation by an operator. In addition, in the description of this flowchart, the first figure and the second figure to be visualized are each a rectangular parallelepiped.

[0042] The processor 31 of the visualization device 30 assigns a picklist to a worker (step S50). Note that within the warehouse model, for example, an area where a worker who has not been assigned a warehouse task waits until a warehouse task is assigned, in other words, a waiting area, may be set. Before a picklist is assigned in step S50, the worker may wait in the waiting area.

[0043] Processor 31 draws a first rectangular parallelepiped with a height of picklist_num*L at a specific position associated with the worker based on the number of picks in the picklist assigned to the worker in step S50 (step S51). At this time, processor 31 calculates the height of the first rectangular parallelepiped, i.e., picklist_num*L, based on the workload of the warehouse work assigned to the worker. Here, the warehouse work is picking work, and the workload is the number of picks. Furthermore, the specific position is assumed to be above the loading and unloading equipment used by the worker for picking work.

[0044] Processor 31 determines whether the worker to whom the pick list was assigned in step S50 has completed all of the picking tasks assigned based on the pick list (step S52). Specifically, for example, processor 31 may compare the number of picks assigned to the pick list with the number of items picked to determine whether they are the same. Alternatively, processor 31 may compare the items assigned to the pick list with the items picked to determine whether any items assigned to the pick list have been picked.

[0045] If processor 31 determines that all assigned picking operations have been completed (step S52; YES), it proceeds to step S56.

[0046] When processor 31 determines that all assigned picking operations have not been completed (step S52; NO), processor 31 moves workers within the warehouse model based on the pick list and has them pick items (step S53).

[0047] Processor 31 increments the value of picked_num, which indicates the number of picked items (step S54). Also, the picked items may be registered as a pickup list.

[0048] Processor 31 draws a second rectangular parallelepiped with a height of picked_num*L (step S55). At this time, processor 31 calculates the height of the second rectangular parallelepiped, i.e., picked_num*L, according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker. Here, the progress of the warehouse work is the number of items picked by the worker in the picking work. Furthermore, the second rectangular parallelepiped is drawn superimposed on the first rectangular parallelepiped drawn in step S51. Then, processor 31 returns to step S52 and repeats the process.

[0049] When the worker has completed the picking operation, processor 31 moves the worker to a designated area within the warehouse model (step S56). The designated area within the warehouse model is, for example, an area where the worker loads the items onto a shipping vehicle. The designated area may be set in the warehouse model in advance by the user. At this time, processor 31 sets the value of picked_num to 0.

[0050] When the worker moves to the designated area in the warehouse model in step S56, processor 31 hides the displayed first and second rectangular parallelepipeds at a specific position associated with the worker (step S57). In step S57, the items placed on the cargo handling equipment, more precisely, the overlapping first and second rectangular parallelepipeds, may simply be hidden in the simulation. Alternatively, the processing of step S57 may appear to a user viewing the simulation as, for example, the worker leaving the items placed on the cargo handling equipment, more precisely, the overlapping first and second rectangular parallelepipeds, in the designated area. Upon completing step S57, processor 31 terminates this processing flow. Note that processor 31 may move the worker to a waiting area after step S57. Then, processor 31 may have the worker wait in the waiting area until the next warehouse task is assigned to the worker, that is, until the next warehouse task simulation is executed.

[0051] 6 and 7 are schematic diagrams for explaining a visualization example of a simulation according to the first embodiment. A warehouse model 60 shown in Fig. 6 is a model created to simulate a real warehouse, similar to the warehouse model 10 shown in Fig. 1, for simulating work in the warehouse. The warehouse model 60 is, for example, a model in a multi-agent system.

[0052] The visualization device 30 executes a simulation using the warehouse model 60. The simulation is displayed on a display device 34, such as a display. In other words, the simulation is visualized. This allows the user to visually confirm the state of the simulation.

[0053] In the example of Fig. 6, a simulation is performed in which six workers pick items stored in a warehouse. In order to easily understand the difference between the visualization example of the conventional simulation and the visualization example of the simulation according to the first embodiment, warehouse model 10 and warehouse model 60 have the same layout. Furthermore, the arrangement of the six workers in warehouse model 10 is the same as the arrangement of the six workers in warehouse model 60.

[0054] 6, in the first embodiment, a first graphic and a second graphic are displayed in the warehouse operation simulation, allowing a user viewing the simulation to easily check the progress of the warehouse operation. Furthermore, even if the size of the worker displayed on display device 34 is small compared to warehouse model 60 displayed on display device 34, for example, the user can easily grasp the position of the worker within warehouse model 60 by visualizing the first graphic (and second graphic).

[0055] Of the six workers, the following description focuses on worker 70. As shown in FIG. 7 , worker 70 is performing picking work using loading and unloading equipment 71. Loading and unloading equipment 71 may be, for example, a pallet jack. A first graphic 72 and a second graphic 73A are displayed above loading and unloading equipment 71. The user can visually distinguish between first graphic 72 and second graphic 73A. By visually checking first graphic 72, the user can confirm the workload of the picking work assigned to worker 70. By visually checking first graphic 72 and second graphic 73A, the user can confirm the progress of worker 70 relative to the overall workload of the picking work assigned to worker 70.

[0056] (Modification of the first embodiment) In the first embodiment, picklist_num indicates the number of times a worker picks an item, and picked_num indicates the number of times a worker has picked an item. However, this is not limited to this, and picklist_num may indicate the number of items a worker picks. Also, picked_num may indicate the number of items a worker has picked.

[0057] Furthermore, in the first embodiment described above, the visualization device 30 visualizes and displays a first graphic corresponding to the workload of the warehouse work assigned to the worker and a second graphic corresponding to the progress of the warehouse work. However, this is not limited to this, and the visualization device 30 may display only the second graphic without the first graphic. In other words, the visualization device 30 may display a graphic at a specific position associated with the worker in accordance with the progress of the warehouse work assigned to the worker. In this case, the visualization device 30 does not display a graphic at the specific position associated with the worker simply by assigning the warehouse work to the worker. The visualization device 30 displays a graphic at the specific position associated with the worker in accordance with the progress of the warehouse work performed by the worker.

[0058] In the first embodiment, the type of each of the first and second figures may be arbitrarily set to, for example, a rectangular parallelepiped or a cylinder, but the type of each of the first and second figures is the same. However, this is not limited to the case where the first figure is a circle, as in the example of FIG. 8 described later. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of visualization of work progress according to a modification of the first embodiment.

[0059] In the example of FIG. 8, when a pick list, i.e., picking work, is assigned to a worker 80 carrying loading and unloading equipment 81, a first graphic 82 is displayed above the head of the worker 80. The first graphic 82 is a circle. Furthermore, a character string 84 is displayed above the head of the worker 80. In the example of FIG. 8, the character string 84 is displayed superimposed on the first graphic 82, but this is not limited to this. The character string 84 indicates the workload of the warehouse work and the progress of the warehouse work by the worker. In the example of FIG. 8, the number of picks for the picking work assigned to the worker 80 is 8. If the worker 80 assigned to the picking work has picked zero items, the character string 84 is 0 / 8.

[0060] When the worker 80 picks an item once, the character string 84 changes from 0 / 8 to 1 / 8. In other words, the visualization device 30 changes the character string according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker.

[0061] Furthermore, if the worker 80 picks an item once, a second graphic 83A corresponding to the progress of the picking operation is displayed over the first graphic 82. The second graphic 83A is at least one of a plurality of equal-divided circles obtained by equally dividing the first graphic 82, i.e., a circle, based on the amount of warehouse work. In this specification, the term "equal-divided circle" means one of a plurality of figures obtained by equally dividing a circle. In the example of FIG. 8, eight equal-divided circles are obtained by equally dividing the first graphic 82 by eight, which is the number of picks. The third graphic 83B shown in FIG. 8 is one of the eight equal-divided circles. As shown in FIG. 8, if the worker 80 picks an item once, the second graphic 83A is composed of one third graphic 83B. Although not shown in FIG. 8, for example, if the worker 80 picks an item four times, the second graphic 83A is composed of four third graphic 83B. 8, the second graphic 83A is a semicircle, and the character string 84 is 4 / 8. In this manner, the visualization device 30 may display one or more equal circles superimposed on a circle according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker.

[0062] When worker 80 repeatedly picks items and completes the picking operation, character string 84 becomes 8 / 8. At this time, second graphic 83A becomes a circle and is displayed completely overlapping first graphic 82. Simply put, first graphic 82 and second graphic 83A form a pie chart showing the progress of the warehouse operation. In this way, a user viewing the simulation may be able to grasp the progress of the warehouse operation from the pie chart.

[0063] Furthermore, only a character string may be displayed at a specific position associated with a worker, without displaying a graphic such as the first graphic. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of visualization of work progress according to a variation of the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 9, a character string 92 is displayed above the head of a worker 90 to whom a pick list has been assigned. In the example of FIG. 9, the number of picks is 10. If the worker 90 has not picked an item even once, the character string 92 is 0 / 10. If the worker 90 has picked an item once, the visualization device 30 changes the character string 92 from 0 / 10 to 1 / 10. If the worker 90 repeats picking and completes the picking work, the character string 92 becomes 10 / 10.

[0064] (Summary of the first embodiment) The above description of the first embodiment discloses at least the following techniques. Note that the components corresponding to the first embodiment are shown in parentheses, but the present invention is not limited to these.

[0065] (Technology 1) A method for visualizing the progress of warehouse work in a warehouse work simulation displays a first graphic (e.g., first graphic 42) corresponding to the amount of warehouse work at a specific position linked to a warehouse worker (e.g., worker 40) based on the warehouse work assigned to the worker in the simulation, and displays a second graphic (e.g., second graphic 43A) corresponding to the progress of the warehouse work superimposed on the first graphic according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker.

[0066] This allows a user viewing a simulation of warehouse work within the warehouse model displayed on the display device to easily grasp the location of the worker performing the warehouse work within the warehouse model. In addition, the user can easily grasp the workload of the warehouse work assigned to the worker and the progress of the warehouse work by the worker.

[0067] (Technology 2) In the visualization method described in Technology 1, the first figure is a first rectangular parallelepiped, the second figure is a second rectangular parallelepiped, and the visualization method calculates the height of the first rectangular parallelepiped based on the workload of warehouse work assigned to the worker, calculates the height of the second rectangular parallelepiped according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker, and displays the second rectangular parallelepiped superimposed on the first rectangular parallelepiped.

[0068] This allows the user to easily grasp the amount of warehouse work assigned to a worker in the simulation and the progress of that warehouse work by that worker by visually checking the height of the first rectangular parallelepiped and the height of the second rectangular parallelepiped.

[0069] (Technology 3) In the visualization method described in Technique 2, when the worker completes the warehouse work, the height of the second rectangular parallelepiped becomes equal to the height of the first rectangular parallelepiped.

[0070] This allows the user to confirm that the worker's warehouse work has been completed when the first and second rectangular parallelepipeds completely overlap on the display screen, making the first rectangular parallelepiped appear invisible.

[0071] (Technology 4) In the visualization method described in Technique 2 or 3, when a worker completes warehouse work and moves to a specified area in the warehouse, the visualization method hides the first rectangular parallelepiped and the second rectangular parallelepiped.

[0072] This allows, for example, when a worker has completed the work of picking an item and moved to a designated area for the work of loading the item, the first and second rectangular parallelepipeds can be hidden, allowing, for example, the worker to be assigned the next warehouse work.

[0073] (Technology 5) In the visualization method described in any one of Techniques 1 to 4, the warehouse work is the work of picking items, the amount of work is the number of times a worker picks items during the picking work, and the progress status is the number of times the worker picks items.

[0074] This allows the user to easily grasp the progress of the picking work in the simulation.

[0075] (Technology 6) In the visualization method described in Technology 1, the first figure is a circle, and the second figure is at least one of a plurality of equal-divided circles obtained by equally dividing the circle based on the amount of warehouse work, and the visualization method displays one or more equal-divided circles superimposed on the circle according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker.

[0076] This allows the user to grasp the progress of warehouse work in a pie chart.

[0077] (Technology 7) In the visualization method described in any one of Techniques 1 to 6, a character string consisting of one or more characters is displayed at a specific position, and the character string changes according to the progress of warehouse work by the worker.

[0078] This allows the user to grasp the progress of warehouse work through text.

[0079] (Technology 8) 2. The visualization method of claim 1, wherein the specific location associated with the worker is above the worker's head or above a loading device used by the worker for warehouse work.

[0080] This allows the user to understand the progress of warehouse work by looking at the graphics displayed above the workers' heads or on loading and unloading equipment such as pallet jacks that the workers use for warehouse work.

[0081] (Technology 9) A method for visualizing the progress of warehouse work in a warehouse work simulation displays a graphic at a specific position associated with a warehouse worker according to the progress made by the worker on warehouse work assigned to the worker in the simulation.

[0082] This allows a user viewing the simulation of warehouse work within the warehouse model displayed on the display device to easily understand the progress being made by each worker on the warehouse work assigned to them.

[0083] (Technology 10) In the visualization method described in Technique 9, the figure is a rectangular parallelepiped, and the visualization method calculates and displays the height of the rectangular parallelepiped according to the progress of warehouse work by the worker.

[0084] This allows the user to easily grasp the progress of a worker on the warehouse work assigned to that worker in the simulation by visually checking the height of the rectangular parallelepiped.

[0085] (Technology 11) A visualization device comprising a processor and a memory, wherein the processor and the memory work together to display a simulation of warehouse work on a display device capable of data communication with the processor, display a first graphic corresponding to the amount of warehouse work at a specific position linked to a warehouse worker based on the warehouse work assigned to the worker in the simulation, and display a second graphic corresponding to the progress of the warehouse work superimposed on the first graphic according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker.

[0086] This allows the visualization device to obtain the same effect as that of Technique 1.

[0087] (Technology 12) A program for causing a computing device to execute a simulation of warehouse work, display a first graphic corresponding to the workload of the warehouse work at a specific position linked to the worker based on the warehouse work assigned to the worker in the simulation, and display a second graphic corresponding to the progress of the warehouse work superimposed on the first graphic according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker.

[0088] This allows the program to achieve the same effect as Technique 1.

[0089] The functions of the above-described embodiments can also be realized by supplying programs and applications for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the programs.

[0090] Furthermore, the functions of the above-described embodiments may be realized by a circuit that realizes one or more functions (for example, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (hereinafter referred to as "ASIC") or an FPGA).

[0091] Although the embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above with reference to the drawings, it goes without saying that the present disclosure is not limited to such examples. It is clear that a person skilled in the art can conceive of various modifications, alterations, substitutions, additions, deletions, and equivalents within the scope of the claims, and it is understood that these also naturally fall within the technical scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, the components of the above-described embodiments may be combined in any manner as long as they do not deviate from the spirit of the invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0092] The present disclosure is useful as a visualization method, a visualization device, and a program. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 10,60 Warehouse Model 20, 40, 70, 80, 90 workers 21, 41, 71, 81 Cargo handling equipment 30 Visualization device 31 processors 32 memory 33 Input Devices 34 Display device 35 Communication equipment 36 External interface device 37 Internal Bus 42,72,82 First shape 43A, 73A, 83A Second Shape 43B, 83B Third Shape 84,92 string

Claims

1. A method for visualizing a progress status of warehouse work in a warehouse work simulation, comprising: calculating a height of a first solid corresponding to the workload of the warehouse work assigned to the warehouse worker in the simulation; displaying the first solid at a specific position associated with the worker; calculating a height of a second solid corresponding to a progress status of the warehouse work according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker; displaying the second solid body superimposed on the first solid body; Visualization method.

2. When the worker completes the warehouse work, the height of the second solid is equal to the height of the first solid. The visualization method according to claim 1 .

3. When the worker completes the warehouse work and moves to a designated area in the warehouse, the first solid and the second solid are hidden. The visualization method according to claim 1 .

4. the warehouse work is an item picking work, the amount of work is the number of times the worker picks the item in the picking work, The progress status is the number of times the worker has picked up the item. The visualization method according to claim 1 .

5. The specific location associated with the worker is above the worker's head or on a piece of material handling equipment used by the worker for the warehouse work. The visualization method according to claim 1 .

6. Each of the first solid and the second solid is a rectangular parallelepiped. The visualization method according to claim 1 .

7. A processor and a memory, The processor and the memory cooperate to: displaying a simulation of warehouse operations on a display device in data communication with the processor; calculating a height of a first solid corresponding to the workload of the warehouse work assigned to the warehouse worker in the simulation; displaying the first solid at a specific position associated with the worker on the display device; calculating a height of a second solid corresponding to a progress status of the warehouse work according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker; causing the display device to display the second three-dimensional object superimposed on the first three-dimensional object; Visualization device.

8. The computing device Run a simulation of warehouse operations, calculating a height of a first solid corresponding to the workload of the warehouse work assigned to the warehouse worker in the simulation, and displaying the first solid at a specific position associated with the worker; calculating a height of a second three-dimensional object corresponding to the progress of the warehouse work according to the progress of the warehouse work by the worker, and displaying the second three-dimensional object superimposed on the first three-dimensional object; program.

Images