Work assistance device, work assistance method, and recording medium

Abstract

This work assistance device outputs an article arrangement and a work procedure on the basis of arrangement information in which a virtual article imitating the article scheduled to be carried into a carry-in space is arranged in the carry-in space and work procedure information indicating a work procedure for a worker, and updates progress information indicating the progress status of work with respect to the work procedure by operation of a user.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a work support device and the like.

Background Art

[0002] There are cases where virtual objects are placed in a predetermined space. Patent Document 1 describes that an operator can use an input device such as a mouse, keyboard, or controller to perform operations such as selecting, moving, rotating, deleting, and replacing parts such as furniture and fixtures placed in a virtual space. Patent Document 1 also describes that furniture appears on the floor that the experiencer is viewing through an HMD (Head Mounted Display).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, when an operator carries an object into a carrying space, there are cases where the operator shares the image of the work and performs the work. However, if it is difficult to share the image of the actual work, it may be difficult to manage the progress of the work and the like.

[0005] An example of the object of the present disclosure is to provide a work support device and the like that can simplify the progress management of work.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The work support device in one aspect of the present disclosure is An output means outputs the placement of virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and the work procedure information that represents the work procedure for the worker, based on placement information that places virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and the work procedure. An update means that updates progress information representing the progress status of the work procedure in response to user operations, It is equipped with.

[0007] A work support method in one aspect of this disclosure involves a computer, Based on placement information, which involves placing virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and work procedure information representing the work procedures for workers, the placement of the items and the work procedures are output. The user's actions update progress information that represents the progress of the work in the aforementioned work procedure.

[0008] A program in one aspect of this disclosure is for a computer, Based on placement information, which involves placing virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and work procedure information representing the work procedures for workers, the placement of the items and the work procedures are output. The user updates progress information representing the progress of the work procedure described above. Execute the process.

[0009] Each program may be stored on a non-temporary storage medium that is readable by the computer. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] This disclosure makes it possible to simplify the management of work progress. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is the first block diagram showing one example configuration of a work support device. [Figure 2] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of a work support device. [Figure 3]It is an explanatory diagram showing a connection example between a work support device and another device. [Figure 4] It is a second block diagram showing a configuration example of a work support device. [Figure 5] It is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of an example of arranging an article in a loading space based on loading space information and article information. [Figure 6] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example where the number of workers is specified. [Figure 7] It is an example of determining the loading order of articles so that the work with a large number of workers comes first. [Figure 8] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying a work procedure manual and a fee. [Figure 9] It is a flowchart showing an operation example regarding the planning of work by a work support device. [Figure 10A] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an actual loading space. [Figure 10B] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example where a virtual refrigerator is displayed in an actual loading space. [Figure 11A] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a part of a loading space. [Figure 11B] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying a space in the advancing direction in the loading space shown in FIG. 11A. [Figure 11C] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example where a loading route is displayed in the loading space shown in FIG. 11A. [Figure 12] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example where a loading procedure is displayed on a terminal device. [Figure 13] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on a terminal device of a person in charge of another loading source. [Figure 14] It is a flowchart showing an operation example of updating progress information in the work of the day by a work support device. [Figure 15] It is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a computer.

Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Embodiments of the work support device, work support method, program, and non-temporary recording medium for recording the program according to this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. These embodiments are not intended to limit the disclosed technology.

[0013] (First Embodiment) Figure 1 is a first block diagram showing one example configuration of a work support device. The work support device 10 comprises an output unit 111 and an update unit 113.

[0014] The output unit 111 outputs the arrangement of items and the work procedures based on arrangement information indicating the placement of items in the loading space and work procedure information indicating the work procedures for workers related to loading.

[0015] The loading space is not particularly limited and can include living spaces, shops, warehouses, offices, cargo compartments of airplanes or vehicles, etc. In each embodiment, a living space will be used as an example of the loading space for explanation.

[0016] The placement information may include, for example, information indicating the placement position of a virtual item, which is a representation of the item to be brought into the delivery space, when the virtual item is placed in the delivery space. The virtual item may be a two-dimensional item represented by a plan view or image, or a three-dimensional item. Here, we will explain using a three-dimensional virtual item as an example. The placement information may include item information related to the item to be brought in, or may be associated with item information. The item information may include three-dimensional mesh model data representing the item. .thing Item information includes at least information that allows for the identification of the item's size. Item information may also include information indicating the item's weight. Item information may also include information indicating the material of the item. Furthermore, item information may include information regarding the item's placement rules. Placement rules are rules concerning placement. For example, placement rules might specify how many centimeters an item must be kept away from a wall or other item. Item information may also include information regarding whether the item is disassembled or assembled.

[0017] The work involves, for example, ensuring that items are placed in the designated locations within the delivery area, as indicated by the placement information.

[0018] For example, if the items to be delivered are items that require assembly, the work involves not only delivering the items but also assembling them. Examples of items that require assembly include dining tables. For instance, if workers were to carry a dining table as is, its size would be considerable. This might require a large number of workers or occupy a significant amount of space in the delivery vehicle. Therefore, workers may disassemble the dining table into its base and legs before transporting it. Consequently, workers may carry the base and legs into the delivery space and then assemble them.

[0019] For example, if the items are machines such as refrigerators, washing machines, or air conditioners, then not only is the work of bringing the items in necessary, but also the work of installing the items. Therefore, the work is one of the following: bringing in the items, assembling the items, or installing the items. Alternatively, a single work may be defined as a combination of bringing in the items and assembling the items. Similarly, a single work may be defined as a combination of bringing in the items and installing the items. Thus, a work may be defined as detailed work related to the bringing in of each item, or as a series of detailed work related to each item.

[0020] Work procedure information may include the order in which items are brought in. Work procedure information may include the scheduled time for each task. Work procedure information may include the number of workers for each task. Furthermore, the number of workers may be the number of workers for each detailed task related to the bringing in of each item, or for a series of detailed tasks. include It may also be the number of workers for each individual task.

[0021] Work procedure information may include identification information to identify workers for each task. The identification information to identify workers may be the worker's name, the worker's identification number, or is not particularly limited. For example, work procedure information may include information that allows workers to be identified in association with the skills required for each task. For example, if the tasks related to the delivery of goods are delivery work and installation work, the work procedure information may store the delivery work associated with the name of the worker performing the delivery work, and the installation work associated with the name of the worker performing the installation work.

[0022] Work procedure information may include at least a portion of the layout information. Furthermore, work procedure information may include layout information for each task, representing the arrangement of the items being worked on. For example, work procedure information may include images for each task showing the arrangement of the virtual items being worked on.

[0023] The output unit 111 may output at least one of the pieces of information included in the work procedure information.

[0024] The output format of the output unit 111 is not particularly limited and can be screen display, audio output, printing, etc. The output device to which the output unit 111 outputs is not particularly limited and can be a terminal device, a display device such as an HMD, an audio output device, a printing device, etc. For example, when the output unit 111 outputs to an HMD, the output unit 111 outputs AR (Augmented Reality) Display may be performed. Specifically, for example, the output unit 111 may display a virtual item on the HMD at the placement location indicated by the placement information in the loading space.

[0025] Furthermore, when the output format of the output unit 111 is a screen display, the output unit 111 may output the arrangement of the items as text, as an image of the virtual items arranged in the loading space, or as a combination of text and images.

[0026] The update unit 113 updates progress information representing the progress of work in relation to the work procedure. As an update process, for example, the update unit 113 updates progress information representing the progress of work in relation to the work procedure based on user operations. The user may be a worker, a manager, a client, or any other type of user. In the first embodiment, a worker will be used as an example of a user.

[0027] If the output device to which the output unit 111 outputs is a terminal device, the device that the operator operates on may be either a terminal device or an input device. For example, the update unit 113 can update the progress information based on the operator's operation on the terminal device.

[0028] The progress status can be anything related to the progress of the work, and is not particularly limited. The method of representing the progress information is also not particularly limited. For example, the progress information may include multiple ways of representing the progress status.

[0029] The progress status may also indicate whether the work has been completed. For example, the progress information representing the progress status may include a flag indicating whether the work has been completed. For example, the progress information may include information on the date and time the work was completed. As an example of the update process, when the update unit 113 receives confirmation of the completion of the work through an operation by the worker, the update unit 113 updates the status to indicate that the work has been completed. To show The progress information is updated. As an example of a more detailed update process, the update unit 113 changes a flag to indicate that the work has been completed and updates the progress information to include information on the date and time when the completion of the work was received.

[0030] For example, the progress status may indicate whether work has started. The progress information may include a flag indicating whether work has started. The progress information may include information on the date and time when work started. As an example of update processing, when the update unit 113 receives notification of work commencement through an operation by the worker, it updates the progress information to indicate that work has started. As a more detailed example of update processing, the update unit 113 changes the flag to indicate that work has started and updates the progress information to include information on the date and time when the work commencement was received.

[0031] For example, the progress status may indicate whether the work has been interrupted. The progress information may include a flag indicating whether the work has been interrupted. The progress information may include information on the date and time the work was interrupted. As an example of update processing, when the update unit 113 receives notification of work interruption due to an operation by the worker, it updates the progress information to indicate that the work has been interrupted. As a more detailed example of update processing, the update unit 113 updates the progress information to indicate that the work has been interrupted. interruption The flag is changed to indicate that the task has been completed, and the progress information is updated to include the date and time the work interruption was accepted.

[0032] For example, the progress status may be the status of the work in progress. The progress information may include the elapsed time since the work started. The update unit 113 identifies the elapsed time based on the time the work started and the current time.

[0033] Furthermore, as another example of the progress status of the work, the progress information may also include the remaining time that can be spent on the work. The update unit 113 identifies the remaining time that can be spent on the work based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information. For example, if the work procedure information includes the scheduled start time of the work, the update unit 113 identifies the remaining time that can be spent on the work based on the scheduled start time of the current work. Start time Start of the next task from [time]. schedule The time remaining until the scheduled time is the time that can be spent on the task. The update unit 113 calculates the start time of the current task from the time that can be spent on the task. Start time The remaining time available for the task is determined by subtracting the elapsed time from the given time to the current time.

[0034] The progress status of the work may also include the status of delays. For example, progress information may include delay time. The delay time may be the overall delay time for the work, or it may be the delay time for each detailed task. The update unit 113 may identify the delay time for the work based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information.

[0035] The progress status of the work may also include the status of work being completed ahead of schedule. For example, progress information representing the progress status may include the time of work being completed ahead of schedule. The update unit 113 may identify the time of work being completed ahead of schedule based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information.

[0036] The output unit 111 is, progress Information may be output. The output unit 111 associates with the work procedure information. progress Information may be output. Here, the work procedure information may include progress information. For example, the work procedure information may include progress information that shows the progress status of each task, such as a checklist. The output unit 111 is progress When the information is updated, progress You may output work procedure information that includes relevant data.

[0037] (flowchart) Figure 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the work support device 10. The output unit 111 outputs the arrangement of items based on the arrangement information and the work procedure indicated by the work procedure information (step S101).

[0038] Next, the update unit 113 updates progress information representing the progress status of the work procedure based on the user's operation (step S102). The work support device 10 then completes the series of processes shown in Figure 2.

[0039] As described above, the work support device 10 outputs the placement of items based on the placement information and the work procedure indicated by the work procedure information, and updates the progress information, which shows the progress of the work procedure, based on the user's operation. The user can manage the progress of the work while confirming the image of the work. When workers are carrying items into the loading space, it is possible to make it easier to share the image of the work with the workers. This also makes it possible to simplify the management of the progress of the work.

[0040] (Second Embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the second embodiment, both an example concerning the planning of the work procedure and an example concerning the actual day of work will be described. To the extent that the description of the second embodiment does not become unclear, explanations that overlap with the above description will be omitted.

[0041] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of connection between the work support device and other devices. The work support device 20 may be connected to the user's terminal device 22 via a communication network. The user is not particularly limited and can be a planner who plans the work procedure, a client who requests delivery, or a worker who performs the work. The type of terminal device 22 is not particularly limited and can be a PC (Personal Computer), smartphone, tablet, etc. The terminal device 22 may have an application program pre-installed that can transmit information to the work support device 20 and output information from the work support device 20. Alternatively, the terminal device 22 may access a website connected to the work support device 20 and send and receive information with the work support device 20 via the website.

[0042] Furthermore, the work support device 20 may be connected to the user's HMD 21 via a communication network. Alternatively, the work support device 20 may be connected to an input device linked to the user's HMD 21 via a communication network. This allows the work support device 20 to receive input for the display on the user's HMD 21 via the user's input device.

[0043] Figure 4 is a second block diagram showing one example configuration of the work support device 20. The work support device 20 includes a placement unit 201, a worker number identification unit 202, a determination unit 204, a generation unit 206, a fee identification unit 208, an output unit 211, an update unit 213, a delivery time identification unit 215, a delivery time notification unit 217, a judgment unit 219, a work request notification unit 221, an inquiry unit 223, and a change instruction reception unit 225.

[0044] The output unit 211 is the same as the output unit 111 shown in Figure 1. FunctionIt may have the following as a basic function. The update unit 213 is the update unit 113 shown in Figure 1. Function It may have this as a basic function.

[0045] Here, each functional part will be explained separately, with examples relating to the planning of work procedures and examples relating to the actual work.

[0046] <Examples of work procedure planning> First, let's describe an example of planning work procedures. The users here could be, for example, a planner for the delivery work, or a client requesting the delivery.

[0047] The placement unit 201 places virtual items, which are models of the items to be brought in, into the delivery space based on item information relating to the items to be brought in. The virtual items may be two-dimensional or three-dimensional. Here, we will explain using a three-dimensional virtual item as an example.

[0048] The loading space is not particularly limited and can include living spaces, shops, warehouses, offices, cargo compartments of airplanes or vehicles, etc. In each embodiment, a living space will be used as an example of the loading space for explanation.

[0049] Item information is, for example, information that allows for the creation of a virtual item, i.e., a three-dimensional item model. For example, item information may include 3D data representing the item. The format of the 3D data may be three-dimensional point cloud data, such as three-dimensional mesh model data representing the item, or data that represents the item by formula. Item information also includes at least information that allows for the identification of the item's size. Item information may also include information regarding the item's placement rules. Placement rules are rules concerning placement. For example, placement rules might specify that an item must be a certain number of centimeters away from a wall or other item. Item information may further include information regarding whether the item is disassembled or assembled.

[0050] Furthermore, the item information may include information representing the weight of the item. The item information may also include information representing the material of the item. Furthermore, the item information may also include information representing the degree of delicacy of the item. Delicacy is an indicator of how easily an item can break. There are no particular limitations on how the degree of delicacy is expressed. For example, fragile items may require careful handling, which may increase the amount of work involved. Information representing the degree of delicacy may be used, for example, when calculating the fees described later. The degree of delicacy may be determined by the type of material. Therefore, information representing the material of the item may be used as information representing the degree of delicacy.

[0051] As part of the placement process, the placement unit 201 may place virtual items in the loading space based on user operations. The user here may be a user of the loading space, a moving planner, a designer for a construction company, etc., and is not particularly limited. The placement unit 201 may also automatically place virtual items in the loading space. Existing technologies can be used for the automatic placement method. For example, the placement unit 201 may input item information into an application that automatically places items and obtain the placement results from the application that automatically places items.

[0052] Furthermore, for example, when placing virtual items in a virtual loading space, the loading unit 201 places virtual items that mimic the items to be loaded into the virtual loading space based on information about the loading space and item information. Information about the loading space is also called loading space information. Loading space information includes information representing the size of the loading space. For example, information representing the size of the loading space is , transportation This could include the floor plan of the entry space. Information regarding the entry space may also include information indicating the type of entry space. For example, if the entry space is a living space, the type could be the type of room, such as a living room or dining room. Information regarding the entry space may also include information indicating the materials of the entry space. For example, the materials could be the flooring material or the wall material.

[0053] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of arranging items in a loading space based on loading space information and item information. In Figure 5, the loading space is a house, and an example of moving work is shown. In Figure 5, the items include a desk, sofa, television, shelves, refrigerator, washing machine, etc. The arrangement unit 201 is, for example, ,thing Product information can be obtained via a communication network. The placement unit 201 can obtain delivery space information via a communication network. The method for obtaining product information and delivery space information is not particularly limited. As mentioned above, the placement unit 201 may, for example, place virtual items on the virtual delivery space using an existing CAD (Computer Aided Design) system at the user's discretion. The output unit 211 may display information during the placement process. For example, in Figure 5, a virtual desk, a virtual sofa, and a virtual television are installed in a part of the virtual delivery space.

[0054] Furthermore, the placement unit 201 may also place items based on information regarding the user's preferences for the delivery space. For example, a user might prefer a larger space next to the sofa. For instance, if another virtual item is placed within a predetermined range next to a virtual sofa, the output unit 211 may output an alert.

[0055] Furthermore, the placement unit 201 generates placement information as a result of the placement. For example, the placement information includes at least position information representing the placement location of the items. The placement information may also include instruction information for placement. The placement unit 201 may generate the placement information so as to include the received instruction information.

[0056] Furthermore, the placement information may include distance information representing the distance from a specific location in the loading space to the placement location of the item. The specific location may be, for example, the entrance to the loading space. For example, the placement unit 201 may calculate the distance from the entrance to the loading space to the placement location of the item and generate placement information that includes distance information representing the distance. While the distance from a specific location in the loading space to the placement location of the item is given as an example, it may also be distance information such as the distance from the entrance of the building where the loading space is located to the placement location of the item, or the distance from the parking lot to the placement location of the item. The placement information may also include positional relationship information representing the adjacency or hierarchical relationship with other items. For example, the positional relationship information may be information such as placing a dining table on a carpet.

[0057] The worker number identification unit 202 identifies the number of workers required for the work based on item information relating to the items to be brought in and placement information in which virtual items, which are modeled after the items to be brought in, are placed in the delivery space.

[0058] A virtual object can be a two-dimensional object or a three-dimensional object. Here, we will explain using a three-dimensional virtual object as an example.

[0059] The loading space is not particularly limited and can include living spaces, shops, warehouses, offices, cargo compartments of airplanes or vehicles, etc. In each embodiment, a living space will be used as an example of the loading space for explanation.

[0060] Item information is, for example, information that allows for the creation of a virtual item, i.e., a three-dimensional item model. Item information includes at least information representing the size of the item. It may also include information representing the weight of the item. Item information may also include information representing the material of the item. Furthermore, item information may include information regarding the placement rules for the item. Placement rules are rules concerning placement. For example, placement rules might specify how many centimeters an item must be kept away from a wall or other item. Item information may also include information regarding whether the item is disassembled or assembled.

[0061] The work involves placing items in the designated locations within the delivery space, as indicated by the placement information. For example, if the items are assembly-type, the work requires not only delivery but also assembly. Similarly, if the items are machines such as refrigerators, washing machines, or air conditioners, the work requires not only delivery but also installation. Therefore, the work is either delivery of items, assembly of items, or installation of items.

[0062] Furthermore, the worker identification unit 202 may specify the number of workers for each task. For example, if the item is a washing machine, the worker identification unit 202 may specify the number of workers in detail, such as the number of workers required for the delivery of the washing machine and the number of workers required for the installation of the washing machine.

[0063] For example, the number of workers for each task may be stored in a table. The table used to identify the number of workers is also called the worker count table. The worker count identification unit 202 may then identify the number of workers associated with a task from the worker count table.

[0064] Furthermore, taking the delivery of a sofa as an example, the number of workers will differ depending on the size and weight of the sofa. The worker number identification unit 202 identifies the number of workers so that the larger the size of the item, the greater the number of workers. The worker number identification unit 202 identifies the number of workers so that the heavier the item, the greater the number of workers. The number of workers may also be presented in a table based on the size of the work and the item being worked on. The number of workers may also be presented in a table based on the weight of the work and the item being worked on. The number of workers may also be presented in a table based on the size and weight of the work and the item being worked on. Taking the delivery of a sofa as an example, if the weight of the sofa is in the range of 10 kg to 20 kg, the number of workers may be 1, and if the weight of the sofa is 20 kg or more, the number of workers may be 2. For example, the worker number identification unit 202 may identify the number of workers associated with the size and weight of the item included in the item information from the worker number table. Furthermore, a model may be prepared in advance that has learned the relationship between the size and weight of the item and the number of workers for past work. The worker identification unit 202 may also obtain the number of workers for an item-related task from the model by inputting the size and weight of the item into the model.

[0065] Figure 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example where the number of workers is specified. Figure 6 shows detailed examples of tasks and the number of workers for each item. To explain using the tasks related to the delivery of a desk as an example, there are assembly tasks and delivery tasks. Delivery tasks are, for example, the tasks of delivering the desk to its placement location, and assembly tasks are the tasks of assembling the desk. One person is required for assembly tasks, and one person is required for delivery tasks. To explain using the tasks related to the delivery of a washing machine as an example, there are delivery tasks and installation tasks. Delivery tasks are, for example, the tasks of delivering the washing machine, and installation tasks are the tasks of setting up the washing machine, such as connecting the electrical cord.

[0066] Generally, the more workers there are, the shorter the work time tends to be. Therefore, the worker number identification unit 202, for example, Working timeThe number of workers may be determined to ensure that the work is completed within the specified working time. The working time here may refer to the total working time required for the delivery. The working time may be specified by the user, for example, via a terminal device 22.

[0067] The decision unit 204 determines the order in which goods are brought in based on the number of workers. Specifically, for example, the decision unit 204 may determine the order in which goods are brought in based on the number of workers for each task, so that tasks with fewer workers come first. Alternatively, the decision unit 204 may determine the order in which goods are brought in based on the number of workers for each task, so that tasks with more workers come first.

[0068] Figure 7 shows an example of determining the order in which items are brought in so that tasks requiring more workers come first. In Figure 7, the order of delivery is such that tasks requiring more workers come first, and the tasks related to the refrigerator, washing machine, shelves, sofa, desk, and television are carried out in that order.

[0069] Whether it is better to prioritize tasks requiring fewer workers or tasks requiring more workers depends on the workers' schedules and the number of workers that can be secured. Let's take the example of a move that takes place from morning to afternoon on May 20th. While it may be possible to secure a large number of workers in the morning of May 20th, it may become impossible to secure enough workers in the afternoon of May 20th. In such cases, it is necessary to complete tasks requiring more workers as early as possible, so the decision unit 204 determines the order in which items are brought in, based on the number of workers required for each task, so that tasks requiring more workers are prioritized.

[0070] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 7 and 6, if there are multiple tasks related to the delivery of goods, and the number of workers differs for each of these tasks, they may be carried out in parallel with tasks related to other goods. In other words, a work schedule may be created.

[0071] Thus, when determining the delivery order, the decision unit 204 may determine the delivery order of the goods in association with the date and time. More specifically, for example, the decision unit 204 may determine the delivery order of the goods so that the number of workers is predetermined during a predetermined time period. For example, if the maximum number of workers required is 3, then from 14:00 to 15:00, there will be 3 workers. Secured However, consider the case where there are only two workers during other time slots. The decision unit 204 may determine the order in which goods are brought in so that tasks requiring three people occur between 2 PM and 3 PM.

[0072] Furthermore, some workers may be unable to assemble or install items. Different tasks require different skills, and different workers have different skills. Also, different workers have different schedules. Therefore, the decision unit 204 determines the order in which items are brought in based on the skills and schedules of each worker, and the number of workers and skills required for each task. For example, the decision unit 204 may determine the order in which items are brought in so that the scheduling ensures that workers with the necessary skills for each task are available.

[0073] For example, items placed near the entrance may get in the way of work. For instance, the decision unit 204 may determine the delivery order based on the placement information and item information, such that items that are further away from the entrance to their placement location are delivered first.

[0074] Furthermore, for example, when arranging large items, smaller items may get in the way. Thus, the determination unit 204 may further determine the order in which items are brought in based on item information, based on at least one of the size of the items or the weight of the items.

[0075] Furthermore, for example, if a sofa is to be placed on a carpet, the carpet must be brought in in front of the sofa. In this way, the determination unit 204 may determine the order in which items are brought in based on the relative positions of the items.

[0076] Furthermore, since there are various methods for determination by the determination unit 204, they may be combined. The output unit 211 may also output the delivery order determined by the determination unit 204. As mentioned above, the output destination and output format are not particularly limited.

[0077] The generation unit 206 generates work procedure information representing the work procedures for workers based on the delivery order and arrangement information. The work procedure is at least one of the work procedures related to delivery to the delivery space and the work procedures related to delivery from the delivery source. The work procedure related to delivery may include the order in which items are delivered to the delivery space and the order in which they are taken out of the delivery means. The delivery means is a means of transporting the goods to the vicinity of the delivery space, such as a truck. In addition, for example, the work procedure may include instructions for each work. The work procedure related to delivery includes the order in which the goods are loaded onto the delivery means for delivery.

[0078] Work procedure information may include the scheduled work time for each task. For example, the generation unit 206 may generate work procedure information representing the work procedure based on the work date specified by the user, the delivery order, and the arrangement information. Not limited to the work date, the overall work start time may also be specified. For example, the time required for each task and the number of workers may be stored in a table beforehand. This table is called the work time table. The generation unit 206 then identifies the order of the tasks based on the delivery order. The generation unit 206 also identifies the work time for each task from the work time table. The generation unit 206 then calculates the scheduled work time for each task from the overall work start time based on the order of the tasks and the work time for each task. The generation unit 206 then generates a work procedure sheet for each task, including the names of the workers.

[0079] The work procedure information may include the number of workers and the names of the workers for each task. The generation unit 206 may identify the workers responsible for each task based on the workers' abilities and schedules, and the abilities and number of workers required for each task. The generation unit 206 then generates a work procedure manual for each task, including the names of the workers. Furthermore, the work procedure information may also include, for example, a timetable.

[0080] Work procedure information may include layout information. Furthermore, work procedure information may include layout information for each task, representing the completed state of the task.

[0081] There are various methods by which the generation unit 206 generates the work procedure manual. These generation methods may be combined.

[0082] The output format from the output unit 211 is not particularly limited and may include screen display, audio output, printing on paper or other media. The output device to which the output unit 211 outputs is not particularly limited and may include terminal devices 22, HMDs 21 or other display devices, audio output devices, printing devices, etc. For example, the output unit 211 may output work procedure information to the user's terminal device 22. The output unit 211 may also output work procedure information to the worker's terminal device 22.

[0083] Furthermore, the work procedure manual may be modified by the user as appropriate. For example, the generation unit 206 may update the work procedure manual based on the user's operation. For example, if the user requests a change in the delivery order, the generation unit 206 may recalculate the scheduled work time for each task based on the accepted change in delivery order, and generate a work procedure manual that includes the recalculated scheduled work times.

[0084] Here, the generation unit 206 generates multiple different work procedure manuals. The output unit 211 outputs the multiple work procedure manuals. In this case, the output unit 211 may output the multiple work procedure manuals in a comparable manner. Alternatively, for example, the determination unit 204 may determine multiple delivery sequences. Then, a work procedure manual may be generated for each of the multiple delivery sequences. The output unit 211 may output a work procedure manual for each of the multiple delivery sequences.

[0085] The fee determination unit 208 calculates the fee required for the entire work. The fee here is an estimated amount for the entire work. There are various methods for calculating the fee.

[0086] For example, the fare determination unit 208 calculates the fare based on the location information. For example, the fare determination unit 208 may calculate the fare based on the location information such that the longer the distance the goods are transported, the higher the fare.

[0087] Furthermore, if the item information includes information representing the weight of the item, and the placement information includes information representing the distance from a specific location in the loading space to the placement location of the item, the fee determination unit 208 calculates the fee based on the distance from the specific location to the placement location of the item and the weight of the item. The fee determination unit 208 may calculate the fee so as to add a predetermined additional charge if the weight of the item is greater than or equal to a predetermined weight and the item is transported for a distance greater than or equal to a predetermined distance. Alternatively, for example, the fee determination unit 208 may calculate the fee so as to increase the more items that are greater than or equal to a predetermined weight and transported for a distance greater than or equal to a predetermined distance. The fee determination unit 208 may also calculate the fee so as to increase the longer the distance over which heavy items are transported. As a result, even for the same loading space and the same item, the fee will differ depending on the distance over which heavy items are transported. In this way, the fee can be determined in more detail according to the amount of work that may occur in the actual work.

[0088] Furthermore, the fee determination unit 208 may calculate the fee based on the degree of delicacy of the items included in the item information. The fee determination unit 208 may calculate the fee so that the higher the degree of delicacy of the items, the higher the fee. Alternatively, for example, a fee table may be prepared in advance with fees set according to the degree of delicacy. The fee table may be set so that the higher the degree of delicacy, the higher the fee. The fee determination unit 208 may identify the fee corresponding to the degree of delicacy of the items from the fee table. Then, the fee determination unit 208 may calculate the fee for the entire work based on the fee corresponding to the degree of delicacy. Alternatively, for example, the fee determination unit 208 may calculate the fee so that the higher the number of items with a high degree of delicacy, the higher the fee. The fee determination unit 208 may calculate the fee for the entire work so that an additional charge is added if there are more than a predetermined number of items with a degree of delicacy of a predetermined degree or higher. In this way, the fee can be determined in more detail according to the effort that may be incurred in the actual work based on the item information.

[0089] Furthermore, for example, the required work and the skills required for the work differ depending on the item. Therefore, the fee determination unit 208 calculates the fee based on the skills required for the work and the unit price for each skill. For example, the unit prices determined for each skill required for the work may be pre-defined as a fee table. The fee determination unit 208 may identify the unit price corresponding to the skills required for the work from the fee table and calculate the fee based on the identified unit price.

[0090] Furthermore, if the worker number identification unit 202 identifies the number of workers to meet the specified work time, the fee identification unit 208 calculates a fee corresponding to the specified work time. For example, if the work time is short, it is expected that more people will be needed for the work, and that more highly skilled workers will need to be arranged. For this reason, the fee identification unit 208 may calculate the fee so that it becomes higher the shorter the specified work time. A fee table may be prepared in advance for each work time.

[0091] Furthermore, there are various methods by which the fee determination unit 208 determines the fee, and multiple methods of determining the fee may be combined. For example, the fee determination unit 208 may determine the fee so that it increases the longer the distance over which delicate items are transported. For example, the fee determination unit 208 may calculate the fee so that it increases the shorter the specified work time and the longer the distance over which heavy items are transported.

[0092] The output unit 211 outputs the work procedure manual generated by the generation unit 206 and the fee identified by the fee identification unit 208, associating them together. The output destination and output format are not particularly limited, as described above.

[0093] Figure 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying work procedures and fees. For example, in Figure 8, the output unit 211 displays the work procedures included in the work procedures manual, the arrangement of items in the virtual delivery space, and the fees on the user's terminal device 22.

[0094] Furthermore, the price identification unit 208 may identify prices for each of the multiple price identification methods. The output unit 211 may output prices for each of the multiple price identification methods in a comparable manner. For example, the output unit 211 may output prices in order of price. Order of price includes, for example, from highest price to lowest price. The output unit 211 may output statistical values ​​for multiple prices. For example, statistical values ​​may include mean, median, maximum, minimum, and mode. The output unit 211 may highlight the statistical values. The price identification unit 208 may also identify the statistical values ​​of multiple prices identified for each of the multiple price identification methods as prices. For example, outputting multiple price options is useful when presenting prices to planners, etc. Planners may use the multiple price options as a reference to determine the final price.

[0095] If multiple work procedure manuals are generated, the fee determination unit 208 may calculate a fee for each of the multiple work procedure manuals. The output unit 211 then outputs the multiple work procedure manuals and their respective fees.

[0096] (Planning flowchart) Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation related to work planning by the work support device 20. The placement unit 201 places virtual items in the loading space based on item information (step S201). In step S201, the placement unit 201 may place virtual items in the loading space based on user operation. For example, in AR (Augmented Reality), the user may wear an HMD 21, and the placement unit 201 may place virtual items in the loading space based on item information based on user operation of an input device linked to the HMD 21. Alternatively, for example, in VR (Virtual Reality), the user may wear an HMD 21, and the placement unit 201 may place virtual items in the virtual loading space based on loading space information and item information based on user operation of an input device linked to the HMD 21. Alternatively, for example, the placement unit 201 may use a CAD system to place virtual items in the virtual loading space based on user operation via the user's terminal device 22. Furthermore, in step S201, the placement unit 201 may be automatically placed using a CAD system based on existing technology.

[0097] The worker number identification unit 202 identifies the number of workers required for the work based on item information relating to the items to be brought in and placement information in which virtual items, which are modeled after the items to be brought in, are placed in the delivery space (step S202).

[0098] The decision unit 204 determines the order in which the goods will be brought in based on the number of workers (step S203).

[0099] The generation unit 206 generates work procedure information representing the work procedures for workers based on the delivery order and arrangement information (step S204). The fee determination unit 208 determines the fee required for the entire work (step S205). Then, the output unit 211 outputs the work procedure information and the fee (step S206). The work support device 20 completes the series of processes shown in Figure 9.

[0100] <Examples of actual work> Next, we will describe an example of the actual work.

[0101] The output unit 211 outputs the arrangement of items and the work procedures based on arrangement information indicating the placement of items in the loading space and work procedure information indicating the work procedures for workers related to loading.

[0102] The output unit 211 may output at least one of the pieces of information included in the work procedure information.

[0103] For example, the work procedure information may include, for each task, at least one of the following: the number of workers, identification information to identify the workers, and the scheduled work time. In this case, the output unit 211 may output at least one of the number of workers, identification information to identify the workers, and the scheduled work time.

[0104] Furthermore, for example, the output unit 211 may output the delivery order included in the work procedure information. For example, the output unit 211 may output the order in which items are loaded onto the delivery means included in the work procedure information. For example, the output unit 211 may output the order in which items are removed from the delivery means included in the work procedure information.

[0105] Furthermore, the output unit 211 may display at least one of the order in which items are brought into the loading space and the instructions regarding the loading of items, which are included in the work procedure information, in association with a virtual item.

[0106] The output unit 211 may display the arrangement of virtual items, which are modeled after items, in a virtual loading space that simulates a loading space, based on the arrangement information.

[0107] The output format from the output unit 211 is not particularly limited and can include screen display, audio output, printing, etc. The output device to which the output unit 211 outputs is not particularly limited and can include terminal device 22, display device such as HMD 21, audio output device, printing device, etc. For example, when the output unit 211 outputs to HMD 21, the output unit 211 may perform AR display. Specifically, for example, the output unit 211 may display virtual items on the HMD 21 at the placement location indicated by the placement information in the loading space.

[0108] The update unit 213 updates progress information representing the progress of the work in relation to the work procedure. As an update process, for example, the update unit 213 updates the progress information representing the progress of the work in relation to the work procedure based on user operations. The user may be a worker, a manager, a requester, or any other type of user. Here, we will explain using the case of a worker as an example.

[0109] If the output device to which the output unit 211 outputs is the terminal device 22, the device that the operator operates on may be the terminal device 22 or an input device. For example, the update unit 213 updates the progress information based on the operator's operation on the terminal device 22.

[0110] The progress status can be anything related to the progress of the work, and is not particularly limited. The method of representing the progress information is also not particularly limited. For example, the progress information may include multiple ways of representing the progress status.

[0111] The progress status may indicate whether the work has been completed. For example, the progress information representing the progress status may include a flag indicating whether the work has been completed. For example, the progress information may include the date and time the work was completed. As an example of an update process, when the update unit 213 receives confirmation of work completion through an operation by the worker, it updates the progress information to indicate that the work has been completed. As a more detailed example of an update process, the update unit 213 changes the flag to indicate that the work has been completed and updates the progress information to include the date and time the completion of the work was received.

[0112] For example, the progress status may indicate whether work has started. The progress information may include a flag indicating whether work has started. The progress information may include information on the date and time when work started. As an example of update processing, when the update unit 213 receives notification of work commencement through an operation by the worker, it updates the progress information to indicate that work has started. As a more detailed example of update processing, the update unit 213 changes the flag to indicate that work has started and updates the progress information to include information on the date and time when the work commencement was received.

[0113] For example, the progress status may indicate whether the work has been interrupted. The progress information may include a flag indicating whether the work has been interrupted. The progress information may include information on the date and time the work was interrupted. As an example of update processing, when the update unit 213 receives notification of work interruption due to an operation by the worker, it updates the progress information to indicate that the work has been interrupted. As a more detailed example of update processing, the update unit 213 updates the progress information to indicate that the work has been interrupted. interruption The flag is changed to indicate that the task has been completed, and the progress information is updated to include the date and time the work interruption was accepted.

[0114] For example, the progress status may be the status of the work in progress. The progress information may include the elapsed time since the work started. The update unit 213 identifies the elapsed time based on the time the work started and the current time.

[0115] Furthermore, as another example of the progress status of a task, the progress information may include the remaining time that can be spent on the task. The update unit 213 identifies the remaining time that can be spent on the task based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information. For example, if the work procedure information includes the scheduled start time of the task, the time from the scheduled start time of the current task to the start time of the next task is the time that can be spent on the task. The update unit 213 identifies the remaining time that can be spent on the task as the time that can be spent on the task minus the elapsed time from the scheduled start time of the current task to the current time.

[0116] The progress status of the work may also include the status of delays. For example, progress information may include delay time. The delay time may be the overall delay time for the work, or it may be the delay time for each detailed task. The update unit 213 may identify the delay time for the work based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information.

[0117] The progress status of the work may also include the status of work being completed ahead of schedule. For example, progress information representing the progress status may include the time of work being completed ahead of schedule. The update unit 213 may identify the time of work being completed ahead of schedule based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information.

[0118] Next, the update unit 213 will describe the process of updating using an image. For example, the update unit 213 may update the progress information based on an image captured by an imaging device at the operator's operation. The imaging device may be provided in the output device which is the output destination of the output unit 211, or it may be a separate device from the output device. For example, if the progress status is whether the work has been completed, the image may be, for example, an image representing the state in which the actual item that is the subject of the work has been placed at the placement location indicated by the placement information. The update unit 213 updates the progress information to indicate that the work has been completed based on an image that represents the state in which the item that is the subject of the work has been placed at the placement location indicated by the placement information, and which has been captured by an imaging device at the operator's operation.

[0119] For example, if the output device to which the output unit 211 outputs is the worker's terminal device 22, the worker may, upon completion of the work, operate the terminal device 22 to take an image of the items in their arranged state using the imaging device provided on the terminal device 22. When the update unit 213 receives the image taken from the terminal device 22, it may recognize that the work has been completed and update the progress information.

[0120] For example, if the output device to which the output unit 211 outputs is the worker's HMD 21, the worker may, upon completion of the work, operate an input device linked to the HMD 21 to capture an image of the items in their arranged state using the imaging device provided on the HMD 21. When the update unit 213 receives the image captured from the HMD 21, it may recognize that the work has been completed and update the progress information. Alternatively, for example, if the HMD 21 detects the worker's gaze and the worker has not looked at the items for a predetermined time or longer, Ta If this is detected, the item may be imaged.

[0121] Furthermore, if the progress status indicates that work has started, the image represents the state in which the item targeted by the previous work is placed at the placement location indicated by the placement information. The update unit 213 may update the progress information to indicate that the next work has started, based on an image taken by the worker using the imaging device, which represents the state in which the item targeted by the previous work is placed at the placement location indicated by the placement information. The method of operation of the imaging device by the worker may be the same as in the example where the progress information is updated to indicate that work has been completed.

[0122] Furthermore, if the progress status indicates that the work has been interrupted, the image is an image representing the state of the item being worked on. For example, the image may be one that is captured in a way that allows the current location of the item to be identified. The update unit 213 may update the progress information to indicate that the work has been interrupted based on an image representing the state of the item being worked on, which has been captured by the operator using the imaging device. The operator's method of operating the imaging device may be the same as in the example where the progress information is updated to indicate that the work has been completed.

[0123] Alternatively, if the imaging device provided in the output device is continuously capturing video, the update unit 213 may update the progress information by detecting the completion of the work from the video. The update unit 213 detects from the video whether the item to be worked on has been placed in the location indicated by the placement information.

[0124] Furthermore, the update unit 213 includes the captured image. progress You may update the information.

[0125] The output unit 211 is, progress Information may be output. The output unit 211 associates the work procedure information with the output unit 211. progress Information may be output. Here, the work procedure information may include progress information. For example, the work procedure information may include progress information that shows the progress status for each task, such as a checklist. The output unit 211 is progress When the information is updated, progress You may output work procedure information that includes relevant data.

[0126] Furthermore, the output unit 211 is progress The output unit outputs at least some of the information contained in the information. For example, when the update unit 213 updates the progress status of whether a task has been completed, the output unit 211 outputs information indicating whether the task has been completed for each task. When the update unit 213 updates the progress status of whether a task has been started, the output unit 211 outputs information indicating whether the task has been started for each task. When the update unit 213 updates the progress status of whether a task has been interrupted, the output unit 211 outputs information indicating whether the task has been interrupted for each task.

[0127] As mentioned above, the update unit 213 may specify the elapsed time, the remaining time available for the task, the delay time, the advance time, etc. In this case, the output unit 211 may output at least one of the elapsed time, the remaining time available for the task, the delay time, or the advance time.

[0128] Thus, the output unit 211 is related to scheduling, such as the scheduled work time included in the work procedure information. vinegar The update unit 213 may output scheduling information such as remaining time and elapsed time, which is identified from the information and work procedure information.

[0129] Furthermore, the output unit 211 may output a message indicating that all operations are complete once all operations are finished. Also, the output unit 211 may output a message indicating that the last operation is complete once the last operation is finished.

[0130] Even if all tasks are not completed, the update unit 213 may update the progress information when it receives confirmation that the day's work is finished. The output unit 211 may output that the day's work is finished when it receives confirmation that the day's work is finished. If all tasks are not completed, the output unit 211 may output that the day's work is finished along with any incomplete tasks.

[0131] Furthermore, the output unit 211 may output, in a comparable manner, an image captured by an imaging device provided in the output device and an image of the virtual items placed in the loading space. The loading space here may be a virtual loading space. For example, if the placement unit 201 uses a VR space to place virtual items during planning, the image of the virtual items placed in the loading space may be an image of the virtual items placed in the loading space which is the VR space. For example, if the placement unit 201 uses an AR space to place virtual items during planning, the image of the virtual items placed in the loading space is an image of the virtual items placed in the actual loading space.

[0132] The image captured by the imaging device provided in the output device may be an image representing the state of the item being worked on. For example, the image may be one that can identify the current location of the item. The image captured by the imaging device provided in the output device may also be an image used by the update unit 213 to update the progress information.

[0133] Here, the terminal device 22 to which the output unit 211 outputs each piece of information is given as an example of the worker's terminal device 22. However, the terminal device 22 may also be the terminal device 22 of the person who requested the work, or the terminal device 22 of the manager who manages the work.

[0134] The output destination where the output unit 211 outputs each piece of information may be the terminal devices 22 of a plurality of different persons, or the HMD 21 and the terminal devices 22 may be mixed. For example, the output unit 211 may output each piece of information to the HMD 21 of the operator and the terminal device 22 of the requester. For example, among the output to the HMD 21 of some of the plurality of operators and of the terminal devices 22 of the operators other than some of the plurality of operators, each piece of information may be output.

[0135] Also, when the output unit 211 outputs to the output devices of each of the plurality of operators, the output may be different for each operator. For example, the output unit 211 may output like a To-do list. For example, the output unit 211 may highlight the work that the operator should perform.

[0136] Next, specific examples of the output unit 211 for each case where the output device output by the output unit 211 is the HMD 21 and the terminal device 22 will be described.

[0137] <Example of Display on HMD 21> First, an example where the output unit 211 displays the work procedure and the arrangement of articles on the user's HMD 21 will be described.

[0138] Based on the arrangement information, the output unit 211 displays virtual articles in the loading space on the user's HMD 21. For example, the output unit 211 displays virtual articles at the arrangement positions of the articles indicated by the arrangement information in the actual loading space on the user's HMD 21. More specifically, for example, the output unit 211 identifies the position of the user in the loading space from the image captured by the imaging device provided in the HMD 21. Then, based on the position of the user and the arrangement information, the output unit 211 displays virtual articles that are planned to be arranged as seen by the user. Note that the virtual articles are displayed based on the article information.

[0139] The output unit 211 may output at least one of the order in which items are brought into the loading space and instructions regarding the loading of items, associated with a virtual item. The output unit 211 may output at least one of the order in which items are brought into the loading space and instructions regarding the loading of items, associated with a virtual item, in response to user instructions. Specifically, for example, when an operation is performed on a virtual item, the output unit 211 may output at least one of the order in which items are brought into the loading space and instructions regarding the loading of items, associated with the virtual item.

[0140] Figure 10A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an actual delivery space. Figure 10B is an explanatory diagram showing an example where a virtual refrigerator is displayed in the actual delivery space. In Figure 10B, the output unit 211 displays a virtual refrigerator and instructions for the placement of the refrigerator in association with the virtual refrigerator in the delivery space.

[0141] Furthermore, the work procedure information may include, for each task, at least one of the following: the number of workers, the names of the workers, and the scheduled work time. In this case, the output unit 211 may output at least one of the number of workers, the names of the workers, and the scheduled work time included in the work procedure information, associating them with a virtual item that is the subject of the work. A virtual item that mimics the subject of the work may be abbreviated and referred to as the virtual item that is the subject of the work. For example, the output unit 211 may display each piece of information included in the work procedure information above, next to, or below the virtual item, or it may display each piece of information included in the work procedure information superimposed on the virtual item. Alternatively, for example, the output unit 211 may output each piece of information included in the work procedure information, associating it with the placement location of the subject of the work or the vicinity of its placement location.

[0142] Furthermore, when the output unit 211 outputs schedule information as described above, the output unit 211 may display the schedule information in association with a virtual item that mimics the item being worked on. For example, when outputting the remaining time to be spent on the work, the output unit 211 may display the remaining time in association with a virtual item that mimics the item being worked on. For example, the output unit 211 may display the remaining time above, next to, or below the virtual item, or it may display the remaining time superimposed on the virtual item. Alternatively, for example, the output unit 211 may output the remaining time to be spent on the work at or near the location of the item being worked on. The output unit 211 may also display the remaining time in a callout.

[0143] Furthermore, the output unit 211 may terminate the display of the virtual item in the loading space at a predetermined timing. The predetermined timing may be the timing at which it is detected that the actual item has been placed in the loading space. Alternatively, the predetermined timing may be the timing after a predetermined time has elapsed since the loading of the item began. Alternatively, the predetermined timing may be the timing instructed by the worker.

[0144] When displaying other information included in the work procedure information, such as the number of workers, the workers' names, the scheduled work time, and scheduling, the output unit 211 may terminate the display of the virtual item and terminate the display of the other information. Alternatively, the output unit 211 may terminate the display of the virtual item and continue to display the other information.

[0145] The above description illustrates an example in which the output unit 211 outputs other information associated with a virtual item. For example, the output unit 211 may output other information at or near the location of the item.

[0146] For example, if a virtual item is not displayed, the output unit 211 may output other information at or near the location of the item.

[0147] Furthermore, for example, the output unit 211 may output at least some of the information included in the work procedure information in relation to the actual items. For example, the output unit 211 may output information to items loaded on a delivery vehicle such as a truck using AR display. For example, the output unit 211 may use AR display to output the loading order, the number of workers, and the names of the workers to the HMD 21 on the actual items. For example, if the work procedure manual states that a refrigerator is loaded first and that there are two workers to carry the refrigerator, when the refrigerator is recognized from the image captured by the imaging device provided in the HMD 21, the output unit 211 may superimpose the loading order (number 1) and the number of workers (2) onto the refrigerator loaded on the truck via the HMD 21. In particular, it is desirable that the number of workers be displayed before loading in order to inform the workers before loading the items.

[0148] Here, in the actual loading space, the worker may not be able to see the space ahead due to walls, doors, etc. For example, the worker may not be able to confirm the space in the loading space where the item to be worked on will be placed. For example, the output unit 211 may display the space in the direction of the worker's movement if the worker cannot see that space in the loading space. For example, the output unit 211 displays a virtual space that simulates the space in the direction of movement. This allows the worker to confirm the space in which the item to be placed will be located. Furthermore, the output unit 211 may display a virtual space in which the virtual item to be worked on is placed at the placement position indicated by the placement information, based on the placement information and the loading space information. For example, the direction of movement is the direction from the worker's current position in the loading space to the placement position of the item that is currently being worked on in the loading space. The output unit 211 can determine the direction of movement based on the position information indicating the worker's current position, the placement information, and the current progress information. Note that the direction of movement is just an example and may be the direction the worker is facing.

[0149] Figure 11A is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a part of the loading space. Figure 11B is an explanatory diagram showing an example of displaying the space in the loading space shown in Figure 11A that is in the direction of travel. In Figure 11A, there is a door in the direction of travel for the user, so the user cannot see the space beyond the door. In Figure 11B, the output unit 211 displays a virtual space that simulates the space beyond the door. Alternatively, the output unit 211 may display an image of the space beyond the door. This makes it easier for the user to work. In Figure 11B, a virtual space is displayed in the door area, but a virtual space may also be displayed on the wall.

[0150] Furthermore, the timing at which the output unit 211 displays a space that is not visible is not particularly limited. For example, the output unit 211 may display a space that is not visible in response to user instructions. Also, the timing at which the output unit 211 terminates the display of a space that is not visible is not particularly limited. For example, the output unit 211 may terminate the display of the virtual space that is currently being displayed in response to user instructions. Furthermore, user instructions may be received via an input device linked to the HMD 21.

[0151] Furthermore, the output unit 211 may display the delivery route in the delivery space on the HMD 21 based on the placement information and information regarding the delivery space. Existing technologies can be used to identify the delivery route.

[0152] Figure 11C is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a loading route being displayed in the loading space shown in Figure 11A. As shown in Figure 11C, the loading route may be represented, for example, by arrows. For example, the loading route may be displayed in text, such as "Open the first door and enter," or it may be displayed in a combination of text and arrows. Thus, the method of displaying the loading route is not particularly limited.

[0153] Furthermore, the timing at which the output unit 211 displays the delivery route is not particularly limited. For example, the output unit 211 may display the delivery route in response to user instructions. For example, when the progress information is updated, the output unit 211 may display the delivery route for the next item to be processed.

[0154] Furthermore, the timing at which the output unit 211 terminates the display of the delivery route is not particularly limited. For example, the output unit 211 may terminate the display of the delivery route in response to instructions from the user. Alternatively, for example, the output unit 211 may terminate the display of the delivery route after a predetermined time has elapsed since the delivery route was displayed.

[0155] For example, other individuals such as the client who requested the work, the manager at the company performing the work, or the planner who created the work procedure manual may want to check the progress of the work or the status of the work on site. In such cases, the output unit 211 may output the video captured by the imaging device equipped on the HMD 21 worn by the user to an output device of another person different from the user. This video is the video that the worker is seeing through the HMD 21. For example, the output unit 211 may distribute the video that the worker is seeing through the HMD 21 in real time. The output unit 211 may also distribute the video from the HMD 21 in real time to a portal site of the company performing the work or the company that planned the work. Furthermore, if there are multiple workers, the output unit 211 may display the video from each of the HMD 21s worn by the multiple workers side by side, or it may switch between displaying multiple videos.

[0156] <Example of display on terminal device 22> Next, we will explain an example of what the output unit 211 displays on the user's terminal device 22. As mentioned above, we will use a worker as the user in this explanation.

[0157] For example, the output unit 211 displays the arrangement of items and the work procedure on the worker's terminal device 22. Alternatively, the output unit 211 displays virtual items in the loading space on the worker's terminal device 22 based on the arrangement information. Or, the output unit 211 outputs at least one of the following: the number of workers, the names of the workers, and the scheduled work time, which are included in the work procedure information.

[0158] Figure 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example where the delivery procedure is displayed on the terminal device 22. The output unit 211 displays the delivery procedure on the terminal device 22. In Figure 12, for example, the output unit 211 displays the delivery order and the maximum number of workers required for each task.

[0159] In Figure 12, the output unit 211 displays the placement of virtual items that are the target of the work in the delivery space in the VR space, for each type of work. The output unit 211 displays instructions related to the work, associated with the placement of virtual items, for each type of work. For example, in Figure 12, the output unit 211 displays instructions related to the placement of the refrigerator in VR, such as placing it 10 cm away from the wall and 5 cm away from the sink.

[0160] In Figure 12, the output unit 211 displays the scheduled start time for each task.

[0161] In Figure 12, the work procedure The information includes progress information indicating the status of work. In Figure 12, the output unit 211 displays the progress status for each task, such as information indicating whether the task has been completed or whether the task has been started. The output unit 211 displays the start time and completion time for each task. For example, for the refrigerator task, since the task has been completed, the start time and completion time are displayed. On the other hand, for the shelf task, since the task has been started but not yet completed, the start time is displayed and the completion time is left blank.

[0162] For example, the worker takes an image of the item's condition after completing the task. For the refrigerator task, the image is displayed because the work is complete. On the other hand, for the shelf task, the image is not displayed because the work is not yet complete.

[0163] For example, if a camera icon that is included in a frame capable of displaying images of incomplete work is tapped, the output unit 211 may display a screen capable of being captured by the imaging device on the terminal device 22. Then, when the worker captures an image using the imaging device provided in the terminal device 22, the terminal device 22 transmits the captured image to the work support device. The output unit 211 displays the captured image within the frame of the captured image.

[0164] Furthermore, in Figure 12, if the overall delay time for the work is determined, the output unit 211 may output the overall delay time along with the current time and the estimated completion time for the overall work.

[0165] For example, when the "Detailed Placement in VR" button is tapped, the output unit 211 may display the placement of virtual items, which are modeled after items, in a virtual loading space that mimics the loading space, based on the placement information. Furthermore, if the current position of the terminal device 22 in the loading space can be determined, the output unit 211 may output the loading route to the placement position of the item to be worked on in the virtual loading space. The method for determining the current position of the terminal device 22 in the loading space is not particularly limited and can be any existing positioning technology. The method for determining the loading route is also not particularly limited and can be any existing technology.

[0166] The examples for HMD21 and terminal device22 have been explained separately. The example for outputting to HMD21 may also be applied to outputting to terminal device22. Conversely, the example for outputting to terminal device22 may also be applied to outputting to HMD21. For example, the output unit 211 may display a screen on HMD21 as shown in Figure 12.

[0167] <Example of requesting a change in delivery time when there is another delivery source> When multiple items are being delivered, they are not necessarily all coming from the same source. For example, in a move, while most items may be transported from the previous home, some items may be newly purchased and delivered separately by a different delivery company. The actual progress of the work may differ from the scheduled times included in the work procedure information. For example, delays or early completion of the work may be expected. Therefore, even if the work procedure information was created in advance based on the scheduled delivery times of the items during the planning stage, there may be cases where the actual delivery times need to be changed during the work.

[0168] Therefore, the delivery time specification unit 215 performs the following work procedure The current desired delivery time is determined based on the estimated delivery time of items shipped from another source included in the information, and the progress status indicated by the progress information. The other source may be the delivery method for items shipped separately.

[0169] The delivery time notification unit 217 then notifies the other delivery source of the current desired delivery time. The notification method is not particularly limited and can be, for example, email or electronic message. For example, the delivery time notification unit 217 outputs the current desired delivery time to the terminal device of the person in charge at the other delivery source.

[0170] For example, if the update unit 213 receives a change to the current desired delivery time from another delivery source, it may update the work procedure information based on the current desired delivery time. For example, the update unit 213 may update the scheduled work times included in the work procedure information based on the current desired delivery time.

[0171] Furthermore, if the update unit 213 receives a change from another supplier to the current desired delivery time, it may update the progress information based on the current desired delivery time. The update unit 213 may also update the progress information to include the desired delivery time of the goods being delivered as the progress status of the goods being delivered. For example, the output unit 211 may output that the delivery schedule has been changed to be at the desired delivery time based on the progress information.

[0172] Figure 13 briefly explains an example of notifying the current preferred delivery time and an example of accepting changes.

[0173] Figure 13 is an explanatory diagram showing an example screen displayed on the terminal device of a person in charge at another delivery source. The delivery time notification unit 217 notifies the current desired delivery time. In addition, as shown in Figure 13, the delivery time notification unit 217 may also notify the total delay time. Specifically, the delivery time notification unit 217 displays the current desired delivery time, the original desired delivery time, and the total delay time of the work on the terminal device of the person in charge at the other delivery source. In Figure 13, the original desired delivery time is the original desired delivery time, and the changed desired delivery time is the current desired delivery time. For example, the original desired delivery time is 2:30 p.m., and the changed desired delivery time is 3:30 p.m.

[0174] In Figure 13, the screen includes a "Do not accept changes" button and an "Accept" button. When the "Accept" button is tapped, the update unit 213 receives a change from another supplier to the current desired delivery time and updates at least one of the progress information and work procedure information.

[0175] If the "Do not accept changes" button is tapped, the output unit 211 may output a message indicating that the changes were not accepted.

[0176] <Example of requesting additional workers> When work is actually carried out, there may be insufficient personnel. For example, if work is delayed, it can be expected that there will be insufficient personnel.

[0177] The determination unit 219 performs the work procedure Based on the delay time, which is determined by the scheduled work time and the current time included in the information, it is determined whether there is a shortage of workers. For example, the determination unit 219 may determine whether the delay time is greater than or equal to a predetermined time. The predetermined time may be a fixed time, such as 2 hours, or it may be determined based on the degree of delay, as described later, and is not particularly limited.

[0178] The determination unit 219 determines that there is a shortage of workers if the delay time is long, and that there is no shortage of workers if the delay time is short. For example, if the delay time is longer than a predetermined time, the determination unit 219 determines that there is a shortage of workers. less than If so, the determination unit 219 determines that there is no shortage of workers.

[0179] For example, the degree of delay differs between a 1-hour delay when the total scheduled work time is 3 hours and a 1-hour delay when the total scheduled work time is 10 hours. The determination unit 219 may determine whether there is a shortage of workers based on the degree of delay, which is determined by the total scheduled work time and the delay time. The method of expressing the degree of delay is not particularly limited, but a higher degree of delay indicates a greater delay, and a lower degree of delay indicates less delay. The determination unit 219 determines whether there is a shortage of workers if the degree of delay, based on the total scheduled work time and the delay time, is higher. There are The determination unit 219 determines that there is no shortage of workers if the degree of delay, based on the planned work time and delay time of the overall work, is low.

[0180] In particular, the total work time may be specified by the client requesting the work. The determination unit 219 may determine that there are insufficient workers even if the degree of delay based on the specified work time and delay time is small. For example, if the degree of delay is higher than a predetermined degree, the determination unit 219 may determine that there are insufficient workers, and if the degree of delay is higher than a predetermined degree degree If it is lower than that, there is no shortage of workers. and Determine.

[0181] If there is a shortage of workers, the work request notification unit 221 notifies other workers of the work request. Other workers may include workers who are in charge of work in other loading spaces. The notification method is not particularly limited and may include, for example, email or electronic message. For example, the work request notification unit 221 outputs the work request to the terminal device of the other workers. For example, the work request notification unit 221 may notify the terminal device of the other workers of the work request along with the address of the loading space and the delay time.

[0182] For example, work may be underway in other loading areas. The work request notification unit 221 may notify workers in other loading areas of work requests depending on the progress of work in those areas.

[0183] <Methods of interaction between workers and other people> While actually performing the work, the worker may need to clarify any unclear points with other individuals, such as the client or planner.

[0184] For example, the inquiry unit 223 notifies another person of an inquiry from a worker. The notification method is not particularly limited and may include, for example, email or electronic message. The inquiry unit 223 receives inquiries from workers via the worker's terminal device 22. The inquiry unit 223 then notifies the terminal device of another person of the inquiry from the worker.

[0185] Furthermore, other individuals, such as the client who requested the work, the manager at the company performing the work, or the planner who created the work procedure manual, may want to change instructions or work procedures on the day of the work. In such cases, the change instruction receiving unit 225 receives change instructions from other individuals via their terminal devices. The output unit 211 may output the received change instructions. For example, the generation unit 206 may update the work procedure information based on the received change instructions, and the output unit 211 may output the updated work procedure information. For example, the other individual's terminal device may be a terminal device that streams the video being viewed by the worker. This allows other individuals to request changes from the worker even if they are not physically present at the work site.

[0186] (flowchart) Figure 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation to update progress information for the day's work using a work support device. In Figure 14, the progress status is explained using the example of whether the work has been completed.

[0187] First, the output unit 211 displays the arrangement of items, the work procedure, and the progress status (step S211). In step S211, the output unit 211 may also display the transport route from the worker's terminal device 22 to the items to be worked on each time the worker's terminal device 22 moves.

[0188] The update unit 213 may also identify the elapsed time and update the progress information to include the elapsed time. Then, in step S211, the output unit 211 may display the elapsed time.

[0189] The update unit 213 determines whether it has received confirmation of the completion of the work (step S212). If it has received confirmation of the completion of the work (step S212: Yes), the update unit 213 updates the progress information (step S213).

[0190] The update unit 213 is, all Determine if the work is complete (step S214). If all work is complete (step S214: Yes ), the output unit 211 notifies that all operations have been completed. do (Step S215). Following step S215, the work support device completes the series of processes shown in Figure 14.

[0191] If all operations are not completed (step S214: No), the output unit 211 returns to step S211.

[0192] Here, for example, various contracts related to the delivery of goods for renovations or moving are sometimes made in writing. However, with contracts and instructions in writing alone, it is difficult to convey the actual work to the workers. Also, for example, in actual work, experienced workers may confirm the general types and quantities of goods from the planner, but on the day of the work, they specifically confirm the items to be delivered and make appropriate decisions regarding the order of work. In recent years, due to labor shortages, it can be difficult to secure workers. necessary In some cases, such as when it is not possible to secure enough workers, it is difficult to uniformly fix the order of work, i.e., the order of delivery, for all delivery spaces. For this reason, it is expected that inexperienced workers will have difficulty determining the order of work, etc., taking into account the number of workers. Therefore, the work support device 10 identifies the number of workers required for the work based on item information about the items to be delivered and placement information in which virtual items, which are modeled after the items to be delivered, are placed in the delivery space. Then, the work support device 10 determines the order in which the items are delivered based on the number of workers. Based on the delivery order and placement information, the work support device 10 generates work procedure information that represents the steps of the work for the workers. The work support device 10 outputs the work procedure information. This creates work procedure information that allows workers to share the work related to delivery. Therefore, it is possible to facilitate the sharing of work related to delivery with workers. Furthermore, according to the work support device 20, it is possible to propose a work procedure that is more appropriate for the number of workers, as the order in which items are delivered may differ depending on the number of workers required for the work. Therefore, it is possible to support the work of inexperienced workers.

[0193] The work support device 20 determines the delivery order so that tasks with fewer workers are performed first. Alternatively, the work support device 20 determines the delivery order so that tasks with more workers are performed first. Alternatively, the work support device 20 determines the delivery order based on the capabilities and schedule information of each worker, the number of workers for each task, and the capabilities required for each task. In this way, the work support device 20 makes it possible to determine a work order that is appropriate for the required number of workers. In turn, it can determine a delivery order that addresses labor shortages.

[0194] The work support device 20 identifies the number of workers for each task based on a worker number table, which sets the number of workers according to the size and weight of the work and the items, and item information, which includes information representing the size and weight of the items. This allows the work support device 20 to determine the number of workers required based on the size and weight of the items, even when items are being brought into the same loading space. As a result, the work support device 20 can determine the number of workers in more detail.

[0195] Furthermore, the work support device 20 determines the number of workers to meet the specified work time. This allows the work support device 20 to determine the number of workers according to a wider variety of situations, such as urgent cases. In addition, for example, the fee determination unit 208 determines the fee according to the work time. This allows the work support device 20 to provide a more detailed fee proposal.

[0196] Furthermore, the work support device 20 may determine the fee based on the placement information. For example, if the item information includes information representing the weight of the item, and the placement information includes information representing the distance from a specific location in the loading space to the placement location of the item, the work support device 20 will calculate the fee based on the distance and the weight of the item. This means that, for example, even when the same item is loaded into the same loading space, the fee may vary depending on where each item is placed. In this way, the work support device 20 can provide a more detailed fee proposal.

[0197] The work support device 20 determines the price based on the delicate nature of the item. The work support device 20 determines the price based on the skills required for the work and the unit price for each skill level of the worker. This allows the work support device 20 to vary the price depending on how much labor is required from the worker during the handling of the item.

[0198] When workers bring goods into a loading area, they may need to share a visual representation of the task before carrying it out. However, if it is difficult to share a visual representation of the actual task, managing the progress of the task can become difficult. Therefore, the work support device 20 outputs the placement of items and the work procedure based on placement information, which is created by placing virtual items that mimic the items to be loaded into the loading area, and work procedure information, which represents the work procedure for the workers. The work support device 20 updates progress information, which represents the progress of the work according to the work procedure, based on the user's operation. The user can manage the progress of the task while confirming the visual representation of the task. When workers bring goods into a loading area, it becomes easier to share a visual representation of the task with the workers. This also makes it possible to simplify the management of the progress of the task.

[0199] The work procedure information includes, for each task, at least one of the following: the number of workers, identification information for each worker, and the scheduled work time. The work support device outputs at least one of the following: the number of workers, identification information for each worker, and the scheduled work time. By checking the number of workers and identification information for each worker, users can see at a glance how many people are working and who is responsible for which task. Therefore, they can share an understanding of the work process. In addition, by checking the scheduled work time, users can see an estimate of the work progress. Therefore, it becomes possible to easily manage the progress of the work.

[0200] The work support device 20 identifies the remaining time available for the task as progress information, based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information. The work support device 20 may also output the remaining time available for the task. For example, showing the worker the remaining time available for the task can help improve their motivation to work.

[0201] The progress status indicates whether the work has been completed. When the work support device 20 receives confirmation of the work's completion through the worker's operation, it updates the progress information to indicate that the work has been completed. This makes it possible to simplify the management of work progress.

[0202] The work support device 20 updates the progress information when the work is completed, based on an image of the item to be worked on, which is placed at the location indicated by the placement information, and which is captured by the imaging device at the user's operation. This makes progress management easier. The work support device 20 also outputs the image and an image of the virtual item placed in the loading space in a comparable manner. This allows for progress management while simultaneously updating the progress information when the work is completed. Original You can check whether the work has been completed as intended.

[0203] Furthermore, the progress status indicates whether the work has started. When the work support device 20 receives notification of the start of work through an operation by the worker, it updates the progress information to indicate that the work has started. This makes it possible to simplify the management of work progress.

[0204] The work support device 20 displays virtual items in the loading space on the HMD 21 worn by the worker, based on the layout information. This makes it easier to share an image of the work.

[0205] For example, the work support device 20 outputs either the order in which items are brought into the loading space or instructions regarding the loading of items, associating them with virtual items. This allows users to confirm work instructions and other information in relation to the items being worked on. Therefore, it becomes easier to share an image of the work.

[0206] The work procedure information includes, for each task, at least one of the following: the number of workers, identification information to identify the workers, and the scheduled work time. The work support device 20 displays at least one of the number of workers, identification information to identify the workers, and the scheduled work time in association with the virtual item that is the subject of the work. By viewing the virtual item through the HMD 21, the user can confirm the number of workers, the names of the workers, and the scheduled work time. Therefore, the work support device 20 can share the image of the work in a more easily understandable way.

[0207] The work support device 20 identifies the remaining time to be spent on the work as progress information based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information, and displays the remaining time in association with the virtual item that is the target of the work.

[0208] If the user is a worker, the work support device 20 may output the video captured by the imaging device on the HMD 21 to an output device of another person other than the worker. The video is the video that the worker is seeing through the HMD 21. For example, the work support device 20 may distribute the video in real time. This allows other people to easily check the status of the work. For example, other people can check without going to the loading space. For example, other people can remotely request changes to the work, etc.

[0209] For example, a worker may have their view obstructed by a wall or other obstruction. The work support device 20 displays the space ahead in the worker's direction of travel on the HMD 21 when the worker cannot see it in the loading area. The worker can then see the space ahead that would otherwise be invisible. Therefore, the work support device can facilitate the worker's work. When a user's view is obstructed by a wall or other obstruction, they may want to see the space ahead, or they may not particularly need to see it. In such cases, the work support device 20 may display the space ahead in the worker's direction of travel according to the user's instructions.

[0210] The work support device 20 displays the arrangement of items and work procedures on the user's terminal device. For example, based on the arrangement information, the work support device 20 displays the arrangement of virtual items in a virtual loading space that simulates the loading space on the user's terminal device. For example, it can display the arrangement of items in a VR space. The user can confirm the completed state of the item arrangement. This makes it easier to share an image of the work.

[0211] The work support device 20 identifies the remaining time available for the work as progress information based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information, and displays the remaining time in association with the virtual item that is the target of the work. This makes it easier to manage the progress of the work.

[0212] The work support device 20 determines the current desired delivery time based on the scheduled delivery time of the goods to be delivered from another source, which is included in the work procedure information, and the progress indicated by the progress information. The work support device notifies the other source of the current desired delivery time. If the work support device 20 receives a change from the other source to the current desired delivery time, it updates the progress information based on the current desired delivery time. This allows the work support device 20 to change the delivery time according to the progress of the work.

[0213] The work support device 20 determines whether there is a shortage of workers based on the delay time identified based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information. The work support device 20 also determines, depending on the progress of work in other loading spaces, Delivery The work request is notified to the workers in the space. The work support device 20 determines that there is a shortage of workers if the delay time is long.

[0214] As explained in each embodiment, if work procedures and fees can be determined, the actual cost of the work will not differ from the estimated cost. For this reason, for example, the company that plans the work and the company that actually carries out the work may be different. For example, it becomes possible to carry out the work without appointing a leader or similar person on site. In each embodiment, using work procedures makes it possible to carry out the work more accurately. Also, in each embodiment, using work procedures makes it possible for workers to carry out the work more carefully. Also, in each embodiment, using work procedures makes it possible for workers to carry out the work more on time.

[0215] This concludes the description of each embodiment. Each embodiment may be combined or modified for use.

[0216] Furthermore, the work support devices 10 and 20 may be configured to include each functional unit and some information. The functional units of the work support device 20 are not particularly limited. The work support device 20 may also have other functional units that are not shown.

[0217] Furthermore, each embodiment is not limited to the examples described above and can be modified in various ways. Also, the configuration of the work support devices 10 and 20 is not particularly limited. For example, the functional units of the work support devices 10 and 20 may be implemented by a single device. Alternatively, each functional unit or database of the work support devices 10 and 20 may be implemented by different devices and configured as a system. For example, each functional unit of the work support device 20 may be implemented by multiple servers and configured as a system. For example, it may be implemented by a database server containing each database and a server having each functional unit.

[0218] For example, the output unit 211 may be divided into an output unit 211-1 having functions related to planning and an output unit 211-2 having functions related to the day's work. For example, the overall system may be implemented with a server comprising a placement unit 201, a worker number identification unit 202, a determination unit 204, a generation unit 206, a fee identification unit 208, and an output unit 211-1, and a server comprising an output unit 211-2, an update unit 213, a delivery time identification unit 215, a delivery time notification unit 217, a determination unit 219, and a work request notification unit 221. The overall system may be implemented with, for example, a server comprising a placement unit, a server comprising a worker number identification unit 202, a determination unit 204, a generation unit 206, and an output unit 211-1, and a server comprising an update unit 213 and an output unit 211-2.

[0219] Furthermore, in the embodiments, each database may include some of the aforementioned information. Also, each piece of information may include information other than the aforementioned information.

[0220] Furthermore, the process of generating information to be displayed on the terminal device 22 may be performed by functional units of the work support devices 10 and 20, such as the output unit 211, the delivery time notification unit 217, and the work request notification unit 221. Alternatively, this process may be performed by the terminal device 22. That is, the terminal device 22 generates screen information to be displayed on the terminal device 22 based on the data received from the work support devices 10 and 20, and displays the screen. The process of generating information to be displayed on the HMD 21 may be performed by functional units of the work support devices 10 and 20, such as the output unit 111 and the output unit 211. Alternatively, this process may be performed by the output unit 111 and the output unit 211. That is, the HMD 21 generates information to be displayed on the HMD 21 based on the data received from the work support devices 10 and 20, and displays the information based on that information.

[0221] (Example of computer hardware configuration) Next, we will describe an example of a hardware configuration when each of the devices, such as the work support devices 10 and 20 and the terminal device 22, is implemented using a computer.

[0222] Figure 15 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a computer hardware configuration. For example, some or all of each device can be implemented using any combination of computer 80 and programs as shown in Figure 15.

[0223] Computer 80 includes, for example, a processor 801, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 802, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 803, and a storage device 804. Computer 80 also includes a communication interface 805 and an input / output interface 806. Each component is connected, for example, via a bus 807. The number of components is not particularly limited, and each component may be one or more.

[0224] The processor 801 controls the entire computer 80. The processor 801 can be, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), a PPU (Physics Processing Unit), a TPU (Tensor Processing Unit), a quantum processor, or a combination thereof, and is not particularly limited.

[0225] The computer 80 also includes a ROM 802, a RAM 803, and a storage device 804. The storage device 804 could be, for example, a semiconductor memory such as flash memory, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive). For instance, the storage device 804 stores OS (Operating System) programs, application programs, and programs related to the embodiment. Alternatively, the ROM 802 stores application programs and programs related to the embodiment. The RAM 803 is used as a work area for the processor 801.

[0226] The processor 801 also loads programs stored in the memory device 804, ROM 802, etc. Then, the processor 801 executes each process coded in the program. The processor 801 may also download various programs via the communication network NT. Furthermore, the processor 801 functions as part or all of the computer 80. The processor 801 may also execute processes or instructions in the illustrated flowchart based on the program.

[0227] The communication interface 805 is connected to a communication network NT, such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or WAN (Wide Area Network), via a wireless or wired communication line. The communication network NT may be composed of multiple communication networks NT. This allows the computer 80 to connect to external devices and external computers 80 via the communication network NT. The communication interface 805 manages the interface between the communication network NT and the internal workings of the computer 80. Furthermore, the communication interface 805 controls the input and output of data from external devices and external computers 80.

[0228] Furthermore, the input / output interface 806 is connected to at least one of the input device, output device, and input / output device. The connection method may be wireless or wired. Examples of input devices include keyboards, mice, and microphones. Examples of output devices include display devices, lighting devices, and audio output devices. Examples of input / output devices include touch panel displays. The input device, output device, and input / output device may be built into the computer 80 or may be external.

[0229] The hardware configuration of computer 80 is an example. Computer 80 may have some of the components shown in Figure 15. Computer 80 may have components other than those shown in Figure 15. For example, computer 80 may have a drive device. The processor 801 may read programs and data stored on a recording medium attached to the drive device into RAM 803. Examples of non-temporary tangible recording media include optical discs, flexible discs, magneto-optical discs, and USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory. Also, as mentioned above, computer 80 may have input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse. Computer 80 may have output devices such as a display. Furthermore, computer 80 may have input devices, output devices, and input / output devices, respectively.

[0230] Furthermore, the computer 80 may have various sensors. The type of sensor is not particularly limited. Also, the computer 80 may be equipped with an imaging device capable of capturing images or videos.

[0231] This concludes the description of the hardware configuration of each device. Furthermore, there are various variations in how each device can be implemented. For example, each device may be implemented by any combination of different computers and programs for each component. Alternatively, the multiple components of each device may be implemented by any combination of a single computer and program.

[0232] Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be implemented using application-specific circuits. Alternatively, some or all of the components of each device may be implemented using general-purpose circuits such as FPGAs (Field Programmable Gate Arrays). Furthermore, some or all of the components of each device may be implemented using a combination of application-specific circuits and general-purpose circuits. These circuits may also be a single integrated circuit, or they may be divided into multiple integrated circuits. These multiple integrated circuits may be connected via a bus or the like.

[0233] Furthermore, if some or all of the components of each device are implemented by multiple computers or circuits, these computers or circuits may be centrally located or distributed.

[0234] The work support method described in the embodiment may be implemented by a computer such as the work support devices 10 and 20.

[0235] Each program described in the embodiment is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as an HDD, SSD, flexible disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, or USB memory. Each program is then executed by being read from the recording medium by a computer. Furthermore, each program may be distributed via a communication network NT.

[0236] Each component of the work support device 10 and each component of the work support device 20 described above may be implemented using dedicated hardware, such as a computer. Alternatively, each component may be implemented using software. Alternatively, each component may be implemented using a combination of hardware and software.

[0237] The present disclosure has been described above with reference to embodiments, but the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described above. The structure and details of each present disclosure may include embodiments that apply various modifications that can be grasped by those skilled in the art within the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure may include embodiments that combine or substitute the matters described herein as appropriate. For example, matters described using a particular embodiment may be applied to other embodiments to the extent that they do not cause a contradiction. For example, although several operations are described sequentially in the form of a flowchart, the order in which they are described does not limit the order in which the operations are performed. Therefore, when implementing an embodiment, the order of the operations can be changed to the extent that it does not impair the content.

[0238] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows. However, some or all of the above embodiments are not limited to the following.

[0239] (Note 1) An output means outputs the placement of virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and the work procedure information that represents the work procedure for the worker, based on placement information that places virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and the work procedure. An update means that updates progress information representing the progress status of the work procedure in response to user operations, A work support device equipped with the following features.

[0240] (Note 2) The work procedure information includes, for each task, at least one of the following: the number of workers, identification information to identify the workers, and the scheduled time for the work. The output means outputs at least one of the number of workers, the identification information, and the scheduled work time. Work support device as described in Appendix 1.

[0241] (Note 3) The update means identifies the remaining time to be spent on the work as progress information based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information. The output means outputs the remaining time. Work support devices as described in Appendix 1 or Appendix 2.

[0242] (Note 4) The aforementioned progress status indicates whether the aforementioned work has been completed. When the update means receives confirmation of the completion of the task through the user's operation, it updates the progress information to indicate that the task has been completed. A work support device as described in any of the appendices 1 to 3.

[0243] (Note 5) The update means updates the progress information to indicate that the work has been completed, based on an image of the item subject to the work being placed at the placement location indicated by the placement information, which is an image captured by the imaging device through the user's operation. Work support device as described in Appendix 4.

[0244] (Note 6) The output means outputs the captured image and an image of the virtual item in the loading space in a comparable manner. Work support device as described in Appendix 5.

[0245] (Note 7) The aforementioned progress status refers to the status of whether the aforementioned work has started, When the update means receives notification of the start of the work through the user's operation, it updates the progress information to indicate that the work has started. A work support device as described in any of the appendices 1 through 6.

[0246] (Note 8) The output means outputs the progress information. A work support device as described in any of the appendices 1 through 7.

[0247] (Note 9) The output means displays the virtual items in the loading space on the HMD worn by the user, based on the arrangement information. A work support device as described in any of the appendices 1 through 8.

[0248] (Note 10) The output means outputs at least one of the order in which the articles are brought into the loading space and instructions regarding the loading of the articles, associating them with the virtual articles. Work support device as described in Appendix 9.

[0249] (Note 11) The aforementioned work procedure information includes, for each task, at least one of the following: the number of workers, identification information to identify the workers, and the scheduled time for the work. The output means displays at least one of the number of workers for each task, the identification information, and the scheduled time for the task, in association with the virtual item that is the subject of the task. Work support devices as described in Appendix 9 or Appendix 10.

[0250] (Note 12) The output means displays the remaining time to be spent on the task, which is determined based on the scheduled time and the current time included in the work procedure information, in association with the virtual item that is the subject of the task. The work support device according to any one of Appendices 9 to 11.

[0251] (Appendix 13) When the user is the worker, The output means outputs the video captured by the imaging device provided in the HMD to an output device of another person different from the worker. The work support device according to any one of Appendices 9 to 12.

[0252] (Appendix 14) The video is the video that the worker is viewing through the HMD. The work support device according to Appendix 13.

[0253] (Appendix 15) When the user is the worker, When the worker cannot visually recognize the space in the advancing direction of the worker in the loading space, the output means displays the space in the advancing direction of the worker. Appendices 9 to 1 4 The work support device according to any one of them.

[0254] (Appendix 16) The output means displays the space in the advancing direction of the worker according to the instruction of the worker. The work support device according to Appendix 15.

[0255] (Appendix 17) The output means displays the loading route in the loading space on the HMD based on the arrangement information and the information regarding the loading space. The work support device according to any one of Appendices 9 to 16.

[0256] (Appendix 18) The output means displays the arrangement of the articles and the work procedure on the terminal device of the user. The work support device according to any one of Appendices 1 to 17.

[0257] (Note 19) The output means displays the arrangement of the virtual items in a virtual loading space that mimics the loading space, based on the arrangement information, on the user's terminal device. Work support device as described in Appendix 18.

[0258] (Note 20) The update means identifies the remaining time to be spent on the work as progress information based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information. The output means displays the remaining time in relation to the virtual item that is the subject of the work. Work support devices as described in Appendix 18 or Appendix 19.

[0259] (Note 21) A delivery time identification means that identifies the current desired delivery time based on the scheduled delivery time of the goods to be delivered from another source included in the work procedure information and the progress indicated by the progress information, A delivery time notification means for notifying the other delivery source of the current desired delivery time, Equipped with, The update means, upon receiving a change from the other delivery source to the current desired delivery time, updates the progress information based on the current desired delivery time. A work support device as described in any of the appendices 1 through 20.

[0260] (Note 22) A determination means for determining whether there is a shortage of workers based on the delay time identified based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the aforementioned work procedure information, Depending on the progress of work in other loading spaces, the other Delivery A means of notifying workers in a space of a work request, A work support device as described in any of Appendix 1 to Appendix 21, comprising:

[0261] (Note 23) The determination means determines that the smaller the number of workers is, the longer the delay time is. The work support device according to Supplementary Note 22.

[0262] (Supplementary Note 24) A computer outputs the arrangement of the articles and the work procedure based on arrangement information in which virtual articles simulating articles scheduled to be carried into the carry-in space are arranged in the carry-in space and work procedure information representing the work procedure for the worker, updates progress information representing the progress status of the work for the work procedure by an operation of a user. Execute the process Work support method.

[0263] (Supplementary Note 25) The work procedure information includes at least any one of the number of workers for the work, identification information for identifying the worker, and a work scheduled time for each work. In the output process, at least any one of the number of workers, the identification information, and the work scheduled time is output. The work support method according to Supplementary Note 24.

[0264] (Supplementary Note 26) In the update process, based on the work scheduled time included in the work procedure information and the current time, the remaining time required for the work is specified as the progress information. In the output process, the remaining time is output. The work support method according to Supplementary Note 24 or Supplementary Note 25.

[0265] (Supplementary Note 27) The progress status is a status indicating whether the work has been completed, and in the update process, when the completion of the work is received by an operation of the user, the progress information is updated to indicate that the work has been completed. The work support method according to any one of Supplementary Notes 24 to 26.

[0266] (Supplementary Note 28) In the updating process, the progress information is updated to indicate that the work has been completed, based on an image of the item that is the subject of the work, which is placed at the location indicated by the placement information, and which is captured by the imaging device through the user's operation. Work support methods as described in Appendix 27.

[0267] (Note 29) In the output process described above, the captured image and an image of the virtual item in the loading space are output in a comparable manner. Work support methods as described in Appendix 28.

[0268] (Note 30) The aforementioned progress status refers to the status of whether the aforementioned work has started, In the updating process, when the start of the work is received through the user's operation, the progress information is updated to indicate that the work has started. A work support method described in any of the appendices 24 to 29.

[0269] (Note 31) The output process outputs the progress information. A work support method described in any of the appendices 24 to 30.

[0270] (Note 32) In the output process, based on the placement information, the virtual items in the transport space are displayed on the HMD worn by the user. A work support method described in any of the appendices 24 to 31.

[0271] (Note 33) In the output process described above, at least one of the order in which the items are brought into the loading space and the instructions regarding the loading of the items are output in association with the virtual items. Work support methods as described in Appendix 32.

[0272] (Note 34) The aforementioned work procedure information includes, for each task, at least one of the following: the number of workers, identification information to identify the workers, and the scheduled time for the work. In the output process, at least one of the number of workers for each task, the identification information, and the scheduled time for the task is displayed in association with the virtual item that is the target of the task. The work support method described in Appendix 32 or Appendix 33.

[0273] (Note 35) In the output process, the remaining time to be spent on the task, which is determined based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information, is displayed in association with the virtual item that is the subject of the task. A work support method described in any of the appendices 32 to 34.

[0274] (Note 36) If the user is the worker, In the output process described above, the image captured by the imaging device provided in the HMD is output to an output device of a person other than the worker. A work support method described in any of the appendices 32 to 35.

[0275] (Note 37) The aforementioned video is the video that the worker is viewing through the HMD. Work support methods as described in Appendix 36.

[0276] (Note 38) If the user is the worker, In the output process described above, if the worker cannot see the space in the direction of the worker's movement within the loading space, the space in the direction of the worker's movement is displayed. A work support method described in any of the appendices 32 to 37.

[0277] (Note 39) In the output process, the space in the direction of the worker's movement is displayed in accordance with the worker's instructions. Work support methods as described in Appendix 38.

[0278] (Note 40) In the output process, based on the arrangement information and the information regarding the loading space, the loading route in the loading space is displayed on the HMD. A work support method described in any of the appendices 32 to 39.

[0279] (Note 41) In the output process, the arrangement of the items and the work procedure are displayed on the user's terminal device. A work support method described in any of the appendices 24 to 40.

[0280] (Note 42) In the output process, based on the arrangement information, the arrangement of the virtual items in a virtual loading space that mimics the loading space is displayed on the user's terminal device. Work support methods as described in Appendix 41.

[0281] (Note 43) In the updating process, the remaining time to be spent on the work is identified as the progress information based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information. In the output process described above, the remaining time is displayed in association with the virtual item that is the subject of the task. Work support methods as described in Appendix 41 or Appendix 42.

[0282] (Note 44) The aforementioned computer, Based on the scheduled delivery time of the goods to be delivered from another source included in the aforementioned work procedure information and the progress indicated by the aforementioned progress information, the current desired delivery time is determined. The current desired delivery time is notified to the other delivery source. Execute the process, In the updating process, if a change to the current desired delivery time is received from the other delivery source, the progress information is updated based on the current desired delivery time. A work support method described in any of the appendices 24 to 43.

[0283] (Note 45) The aforementioned computer, Based on the delay time identified from the scheduled work time and the current time included in the aforementioned work procedure information, it is determined whether there is a shortage of workers. Depending on the progress of work in other loading spaces, the other Delivery Notify the workers in the space of the work request. A work support method described in any of the appendices 24 to 44 that executes the process.

[0284] (Note 46) On the computer, Based on placement information, which involves placing virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and work procedure information representing the work procedures for workers, the placement of the items and the work procedures are output. The user updates progress information representing the progress of the work procedure described above. A non-temporary recording medium readable by the computer, which records a program that executes a process.

[0285] (Note 47) The work procedure information includes, for each task, at least one of the following: the number of workers, identification information to identify the workers, and the scheduled time for the work. The output process outputs at least one of the number of workers, the identification information, and the scheduled work time. The recording medium described in Appendix 46.

[0286] (Note 48) In the updating process, the remaining time to be spent on the work is identified as the progress information based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information. The output process outputs the remaining time. Recording medium as described in Appendix 46 or Appendix 47.

[0287] (Note 49) The aforementioned progress status indicates whether the aforementioned work has been completed. In the updating process, when the completion of the task is received through the user's operation, the progress information is updated to indicate that the task has been completed. A recording medium as described in any of the appendices 46 to 48.

[0288] (Note 50) In the updating process, the progress information is updated to indicate that the work has been completed, based on an image of the item that is the subject of the work, which is placed at the location indicated by the placement information, and which is captured by the imaging device through the user's operation. Recording media as described in Appendix 49.

[0289] (Note 51) In the output process described above, the captured image and an image of the virtual item in the loading space are output in a comparable manner. The recording medium described in Appendix 50.

[0290] (Note 52) The aforementioned progress status refers to the status of whether the aforementioned work has started, In the updating process, when the start of the work is received through the user's operation, the progress information is updated to indicate that the work has started. A recording medium as described in any of the appendices 46 to 51.

[0291] (Note 53) The output process outputs the progress information. A recording medium as described in any of the appendices 46 to 52.

[0292] (Note 54) In the output process, based on the placement information, the virtual items in the transport space are displayed on the HMD worn by the user. A recording medium as described in any of the appendices 46 to 53.

[0293] (Note 55) In the output process described above, at least one of the order in which the items are brought into the loading space and the instructions regarding the loading of the items are output in association with the virtual items. The recording medium described in Appendix 54.

[0294] (Note 56) The aforementioned work procedure information includes, for each task, at least one of the following: the number of workers, identification information to identify the workers, and the scheduled time for the work. In the output process, at least one of the number of workers for each task, the identification information, and the scheduled time for the task is displayed in association with the virtual item that is the target of the task. The recording medium described in Appendix 54 or Appendix 55.

[0295] (Note 57) In the output process, the remaining time to be spent on the task, which is determined based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information, is displayed in association with the virtual item that is the subject of the task. A recording medium as described in any of the appendices 54 to 56.

[0296] (Note 58) If the user is the worker, In the output process described above, the image captured by the imaging device provided in the HMD is output to an output device of a person other than the worker. A recording medium as described in any of the appendices 54 to 57.

[0297] (Note 59) The aforementioned video is the video that the worker is viewing through the HMD. The recording medium described in Appendix 58.

[0298] (Note 60) If the user is the worker, In the output process described above, if the worker cannot see the space in the direction of the worker's movement within the loading space, the space in the direction of the worker's movement is displayed. A recording medium as described in any of the appendices 54 to 59.

[0299] (Note 61) In the output process, the space in the direction of the worker's movement is displayed in accordance with the worker's instructions. The recording medium described in Appendix 60.

[0300] (Note 62) In the output process, based on the arrangement information and the information regarding the loading space, the loading route in the loading space is displayed on the HMD. A recording medium as described in any of the appendices 54 to 61.

[0301] (Note 63) In the output process, the arrangement of the items and the work procedure are displayed on the user's terminal device. A recording medium as described in any of the appendices 46 to 62.

[0302] (Note 64) In the output process, based on the arrangement information, the arrangement of the virtual items in a virtual loading space that mimics the loading space is displayed on the user's terminal device. Note 63 As described recording media .

[0303] (Note 65) In the updating process, the remaining time to be spent on the work is identified as the progress information based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information. In the output process described above, the remaining time is displayed in association with the virtual item that is the subject of the task. As described in Appendix 63 or Appendix 64 recording media .

[0304] (Note 66) The aforementioned computer to , Based on the scheduled delivery time of the goods to be delivered from another source included in the aforementioned work procedure information and the progress indicated by the aforementioned progress information, the current desired delivery time is determined. The current desired delivery time is notified to the other delivery source. Execute the process Let , In the updating process, if a change to the current desired delivery time is received from the other delivery source, the progress information is updated based on the current desired delivery time. As described in any of the appendices 46 to 65 recording media .

[0305] (Note 67) The aforementioned computer to , Based on the delay time identified from the scheduled work time and the current time included in the aforementioned work procedure information, it is determined whether there is a shortage of workers. Depending on the progress of work in other loading spaces, the other Delivery Notify the workers in the space of the work request. Execute the process Let As described in any of the appendices 46 to 66 recording media . [Explanation of Symbols]

[0306] 10,20 Work support devices 21 HMD 22 Terminal devices 80 Computers 201 Placement section 202 Number of workers identification department 204 Decision Section 206 Generation part 208 Fee Specification Section 111,211,211-1,211-2 Output section 113,213 Update Department 215 Delivery time identification section 217 Delivery time notification section 219 Judgment section 221 Work Request Notification Department 223 Inquiry Department 225 Change Request Reception Department 801 Processor 802 ROM 803 RAM 804 Storage device 805 Communication Interface 806 Input / Output Interface 807 Bus NT communication network

Claims

1. An output means outputs the placement of virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and the work procedure information that represents the work procedure for the worker, based on placement information that places virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and the work procedure. An update means that updates progress information representing the progress status of the work procedure in response to user operations, A work support device equipped with the following features.

2. The work procedure information includes, for each task, at least one of the following: the number of workers, identification information to identify the workers, and the scheduled time for the work. The output means outputs at least one of the number of workers, the identification information, and the scheduled work time. The work support device according to claim 1.

3. The update means identifies the remaining time to be spent on the work as progress information based on the scheduled work time and the current time included in the work procedure information. The output means outputs the remaining time. The work support device according to claim 1.

4. The aforementioned progress status indicates whether the aforementioned work has been completed. When the update means receives confirmation of the completion of the task through the user's operation, it updates the progress information to indicate that the task has been completed. The work support device according to claim 1.

5. The update means updates the progress information to indicate that the work has been completed, based on an image of the item subject to the work being placed at the placement location indicated by the placement information, which is an image captured by the imaging device through the user's operation. The work support device according to claim 4.

6. The output means displays the virtual items in the loading space on the HMD (Head Mounted Display) worn by the user, based on the arrangement information. The work support device according to claim 1.

7. If the user is the worker, The output means displays the space in the direction of the worker's movement when the worker cannot see the space in the loading space. The work support device according to claim 6.

8. A delivery time identification means that identifies the current desired delivery time based on the scheduled delivery time of the goods to be delivered from another source included in the work procedure information and the progress indicated by the progress information, A delivery time notification means for notifying the other delivery source of the current desired delivery time, Equipped with, The update means, upon receiving a change from the other delivery source to the current desired delivery time, updates the progress information based on the current desired delivery time. A work support device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. Computers Based on placement information, which involves placing virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and work procedure information representing the work procedures for workers, the placement of the items and the work procedures are output. The user updates progress information representing the progress of the work procedure described above. Work support method.

10. On the computer, Based on placement information, which involves placing virtual items that mimic the items to be brought into the loading space, and work procedure information representing the work procedures for workers, the placement of the items and the work procedures are output. The user updates progress information representing the progress of the work procedure described above. A program that executes a process.