Visual Work Instruction Flow for Correct Task Sequence

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional work instruction systems struggle to help operators perform multiple element tasks in the correct order, leading to reduced working speed and potential defects in finished products, especially for inexperienced operators.

Innovation Solution

A work instruction system that includes an imaging device to capture images of operators performing tasks, an information processing device to determine task completion and identify the next task, and a display device to highlight the next task to be performed, ensuring operators can execute multiple element tasks efficiently.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If multiple element tasks are displayed at the same time, then the operator can see all tasks, but it becomes difficult for the operator to grasp the order of performing each element task

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveTask information completenessVSAvoidTask order comprehension
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The display device divides multiple element tasks into individual segments, with each task presented as a separate display element. The system segments the task information both spatially (different display positions) and temporally (sequential presentation based on completion status), making it easier for operators to process and understand the order of operations without being overwhelmed by all tasks simultaneously

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The display system dynamically adjusts which tasks are shown based on real-time completion status. As operators complete tasks, the display updates to reflect the current state, dynamically reordering or highlighting remaining tasks. This dynamic adaptation helps operators grasp the current priority and sequence of tasks without confusion from static, simultaneous display of all tasks

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Loss of information

If multiple element tasks are displayed at the same time, then all tasks are visible, but the operator's working speed is lowered until proficient

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveTask visibilityVSAvoidOperator working speed
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The system extracts and highlights only the relevant next task from the complete set of element tasks, removing unnecessary visual clutter. By taking out the specific task that needs to be performed next and presenting it prominently, the operator can focus on the current action without being distracted by other tasks, thereby maintaining higher working speed while still having access to all task information when needed

Inventive Principle:
Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

3Loss of information

If multiple element tasks are displayed at the same time, then comprehensive task information is provided, but inexperienced operators may perform tasks in wrong order leading to defects

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveTask information availabilityVSAvoidTask execution accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides continuous feedback to operators about task completion status and the correct sequence of operations. The display device updates in real-time to show which tasks have been completed and which remain, providing feedback that guides inexperienced operators through the correct order of operations. This feedback mechanism prevents errors by making the required sequence explicit and visible throughout the work process

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS20220391810A1Work instruction system and work instruction method
Publication Date: 2022.12.08 OMRON CORP
  • US20220391810A1 patent drawing
  • US20220391810A1 patent drawing
  • US20220391810A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A work instruction system includes: an imaging device that captures a captured image including an operator that performs a plurality of element tasks with respect to a target; an information processing device that includes a completion determination part that determines, for each element task, the completion of the element task, and a work identifier that identifies the element task to be performed next by the operator; and a display device that displays the element task to be performed next by the operator.