Operator-Machine Matching System for Usability Optimization

Resolve Bottlenecks,
Find Innovative Solutions
Generate Solutions

Solution Overview

Problem

Existing technologies fail to match machine operability with user handling ability, leading to low usability as they do not consider factors like display screen size, operating part placement, force required, and user physical characteristics.

Innovation Solution

A person and machine matching device that classifies machines based on operability and user handling ability using characteristic values, determining a matching machine type and operator type to present a machine that the user can operate smoothly.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If a user is presented with diversified machine models to expand selection range, then the user's needs are better met, but the user experiences trouble in selecting a model

Engineering Contradiction:
Improverange of selectionsVSAvoidease of selection
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies parameter changes by transforming the selection process from browsing multiple machine models to receiving a single recommended model based on analyzed parameters (use history, physical characteristics, handling ability). The system changes the selection parameters from user-chosen diversity to system-determined optimality based on matched characteristics.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs self-service by automatically analyzing the user's use history, physical characteristics, and handling ability to determine the most suitable machine model without requiring the user to manually evaluate multiple options. The recommendation is generated autonomously based on stored data and matching algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If a machine model is recommended based on necessary functions, then the functional needs are met, but the user's ability to operate the machine smoothly is not considered

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional suitabilityVSAvoidoperability matching
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extends parameter analysis from purely functional requirements to include physical characteristics (eyesight, hearing, muscular power, hand size) and handling ability. This parameter expansion ensures the recommended machine matches both functional needs and the user's operational capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary analysis of the user's physical characteristics and handling ability before making the machine recommendation. By pre-evaluating these factors and storing them in the storage unit, the system prepares the necessary data to match with machine specifications before the actual selection occurs.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If machines with diverse designs and functions are manufactured, then user needs are better satisfied, but the complexity of selection increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemodel diversityVSAvoidselection complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extracts the essential selection criteria from the complex array of machine models by identifying and analyzing only the relevant parameters (use history, physical characteristics, handling ability). This extraction process filters out unnecessary information and focuses on the key factors that determine suitable machine selection.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

Solution Approach 2:

The system acts as an intermediary between the diverse machine models and the user by introducing a recommendation mechanism that bridges the gap. Rather than directly presenting all models to the user, the system intermediates by analyzing compatibility and presenting a tailored recommendation based on matched parameters.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS10740816B2Person and machine matching device, matching system, person and machine matching method, and person and machine matching program
Publication Date: 2020.08.11 OMRON CORP
  • US10740816B2 patent drawing
  • US10740816B2 patent drawing
  • US10740816B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A person and machine matching device (1), for each machine that operates according to operation of an operator, stores a machine type classified on a basis of operability of the machine, in a machine type DB (15). The person and machine matching device (1) determines matching between an operator type obtained by classifying an operator on the basis of a machine operation handling ability and the machine type classified on the basis of the operability of the machine. In addition, the person and machine matching device (1) generates and outputs matching determination result information with the machine of which the machine type is stored in the machine type DB (15), on the basis of a determination result obtained by determining the matching between the operator type of a specified operator and the machine type.