Dynamic Worker Allocation for Vehicle Inspection Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies do not provide a method to adjust the number of workers in a workshop based on the type of vehicle, leading to inefficiencies in vehicle inspection processes.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus that captures images of vehicles, determines their types, calculates their numbers, and allocates workers accordingly to optimize the inspection process by adjusting the number of workers based on the ratio of vehicle types in the standby area.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If the number of workers is fixed regardless of vehicle type distribution, then labor cost is controlled, but inspection efficiency and throughput are reduced due to mismatches between worker allocation and actual vehicle type demand
Solution Approach 1:
The worker allocation system transitions from a fixed configuration to a dynamic one that automatically adjusts worker distribution based on real-time vehicle type detection. The determination unit continuously monitors the standby area, identifies vehicle types, and recalculates optimal worker allocation ratios, enabling the system to adapt flexibly to changing vehicle compositions without manual intervention
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements a closed-loop feedback mechanism where the detection unit continuously monitors vehicle types in the standby area, the determination unit processes this information to assess current worker allocation effectiveness, and the notification unit provides feedback to supervisors for adjustment. This continuous monitoring and adjustment cycle ensures worker allocation remains optimized according to actual vehicle type distribution
2Productivity
If workers are reallocated frequently based on changing vehicle types, then inspection efficiency is improved, but worker mobility requirements and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary determination of optimal worker allocation ratios based on detected vehicle type distributions before actual reallocation occurs. By calculating and notifying the optimal configuration in advance, the system allows supervisors to prepare and execute reallocation plans systematically, reducing the operational burden and complexity of frequent worker movements
Solution Approach 2:
The notification unit serves as an intermediary between the determination unit and human supervisors/ workers. It translates complex determination data into clear, actionable notifications that guide worker reallocation, reducing the cognitive load on supervisors and making the reallocation process more straightforward and easier to execute
3Productivity
If the system monitors and adjusts worker allocation in real-time, then inspection process optimization is achieved, but system complexity and computational requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The information processing system is segmented into distinct functional units: a detection unit for identifying vehicle types, a determination unit for calculating optimal worker allocation ratios, and a notification unit for communicating results. This modular segmentation simplifies the overall system architecture, making it easier to implement, maintain, and scale while achieving real-time optimization capabilities
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus comprising a calculation unit configured to determine a type of each vehicle included in an image obtained by capturing a first area where vehicles stand by, and calculate the first number of vehicles of each type, a decision unit configured to decide, in accordance with the first number of vehicles of each type, notification information concerning workers to be allocated in a second area where a predetermined work that changes in accordance with the type of the vehicle is conducted, and an output unit configured to output the notification information.