Operator Movement Guidance Using Skill-Matched Training Data

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing skill evaluation systems are ineffective in efficiently improving the skill level of low-skilled workers, as they do not account for the learning process and often require training based on data from a model operator with a significantly higher skill level, making it difficult for low-skilled operators to master movements in a short time.

Innovation Solution

A work support device that uses sensors to measure and analyze the movement data of a target operator, accessing a database to acquire movement data from a model operator with a skill level slightly higher than the target operator, and providing instructions to help the target operator learn by comparing and adjusting their movements to match those of the model operator, allowing for efficient skill development.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If training is based on data from a model operator with significantly higher skill level, then the model operator's movements can be captured, but low-skilled operators cannot master movements efficiently

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveskill level evaluation accuracyVSAvoidlearning efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides different training data sources tailored to the specific skill level of each target operator. Low-skilled operators receive data from model operators with similar skill levels, while higher-skilled operators can access data from more advanced models, ensuring each operator receives appropriately matched training content

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically changes the parameter of model operator skill level based on the target operator's current skill level. By adjusting this parameter to match or slightly exceed the target's level, the system optimizes learning efficiency while maintaining achievable difficulty

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If training data from high-skilled model operators is used, then comprehensive movement patterns can be captured, but the complexity increases making it hard for beginners to learn

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemovement data qualityVSAvoidtraining system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system segments the operator population by skill level and creates separate training pathways. Each segment receives training data appropriate to its skill level, breaking down the complex learning process into manageable stages from beginner to advanced

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Stability of the object's composition

If identical training is provided to all operators regardless of skill level, then training consistency is maintained, but skill improvement efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetraining consistencyVSAvoidtime to master work step
Core Design Contradiction:
Stability of the object's compositionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adjusts training parameters including model operator selection, data difficulty, and training intensity based on the target operator's current skill level. This dynamic adaptation maintains consistency in training structure while varying content difficulty to optimize learning speed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Data Source

PatentEP3617815B1Work support device, work support method, and work support program
Publication Date: 2021.03.24 OMRON CORP
  • EP3617815B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP3617815B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP3617815B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A work support device includes: a first acquisition unit configured to acquire movement data of a target operator performing a work step; a skill-level calculation unit configured to calculate the skill level of the target operator with respect to the work step, the skill level indicating a degree on a spectrum of whether or not the target operator can suitably accomplish the work step; a second acquisition unit configured to acquire the movement data of a model operator at a skill level slightly higher than or equal to the skill level calculated for the target operator; and an instruction determination unit configured to compare the movement data acquired for the model operator with the movement data of the target operator and determine an instruction that allows the movement of the target operator to approach the movement of the model operator on the basis of the results of comparison.