Dynamic Workstation Assignment via Occupant Interaction Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing hot desking systems require workers to register and may not guarantee access to the most efficient facility, failing to adapt to dynamic work environments and prioritize flexibility in space utilization.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using image analysis to understand occupant interactions and behavior, assigning the most efficient work station based on characterization, path analysis, and history logs, allowing for dynamic and efficient allocation of space-related resources.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If workers are required to register with the system to access workstations, then the system can track and manage occupancy, but worker convenience deteriorates due to registration irritation
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically detects and tracks worker occupancy using sensors and image analysis without requiring manual registration. Workers simply enter the space and the system autonomously identifies their presence, assigns workstations, and updates occupancy status, eliminating the need for workers to actively register themselves.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual registration mechanisms with automated optical and sensor-based detection systems. Image analysis cameras and occupancy sensors automatically identify workers and track their movements, substituting the mechanical process of manual check-in with an automated visual recognition system.
2Device complexity
If hot desking systems use pre-set criteria for workstation assignment, then system complexity is reduced, but adaptability to dynamic work environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts workstation assignments based on real-time occupancy data, worker interactions, and changing space utilization patterns. Rather than relying on static pre-set criteria, the system continuously learns from observed behaviors and automatically reconfigures assignments to adapt to evolving work environment needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates continuous feedback loops where occupancy sensors and image analysis provide real-time data about worker interactions and space usage. This feedback is processed to automatically adjust workstation assignments and optimize space utilization, allowing the system to adapt to dynamic conditions while maintaining operational simplicity.
3Extent of automation
If occupancy sensors are used to detect workstations, then automation is improved, but the ability to understand occupant interactions and behavior deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple detection technologies - occupancy sensors for automated detection and image analysis cameras for behavioral observation - into a unified system. The occupancy sensors provide automated workstation status while the image analysis component captures rich behavioral data, combining both functions in an integrated platform that retains information about occupant interactions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs multi-functional imaging technology that simultaneously performs automated occupancy detection and behavioral analysis. The same image analysis infrastructure used to detect presence also extracts information about worker interactions, movement patterns, and space utilization behaviors, eliminating the need for separate systems and preserving comprehensive data.
Data Source
AI summary
Determining occupants' interactions in a space by applying a computer vision algorithm to track an occupant in a set of images of a space to obtain locations in the space of the occupant over time, where a history log of the occupant includes the locations of the occupant in the space over time is created and history logs of a plurality of occupants are compared to extract interaction points between the plurality of occupants.