DE102021129257A1 - Procedure for planning the use of qualified employees in a production facility - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for planning the use of qualified employees (1,2,3) in a production facility (4), having the following steps for execution in a memory device (5) of a computer (6): a. maintaining a register of employees (1,2,3); b. via an interface (7), in the register of employees (1,2,3) filing of employee-related information relating to a respective qualification; c. Maintaining a list of qualification requirements specific to each individual station (8) of a production facility (4); d. by means of a processor (9), assigning the employees (1,2,3) to at least one station (8) of the production plant (4) on the basis of: - the stored employee-related information regarding the respective qualification, and- the respective qualification requirement for the relevant station (8);e. via an interface (10), monitoring and filing a current availability of the employees kept in the register; and f. by means of a processor (9), allocating the available employees to the stations (8) of the production plant (4) depending on the assignment according to step d. and from the step e. stored current availability. With the method proposed here, a classification of qualified employees in a production plant can be carried out automatically.

Description

The invention relates to a method for planning the use of qualified employees in a production plant, a production plant with such a method for manufacturing a product, and a computer program and a computer program product with such a method.

In highly automated production plants, for example in body construction in the field of motor vehicles, process steps are closely timed so that large quantities can be produced. Different tasks are to be carried out by employees in the production plant, with the tasks requiring different activities from the employees and thus different qualification requirements for the activities. Some activities require certain qualifications, which must be renewed or checked after a predetermined period of time so that the required quality standards for the final product are maintained.

Highly automated production plants are highly complex and dynamic systems that have to react quickly to disruptions. However, if an employee is absent, for example, a machine or an activity on a machine cannot be carried out or only to a limited extent by any other employee from the same production station, so that qualified employees may have to be removed from another production station, in which case the production station there then has a shortage of qualified employees. Conventional planning for the deployment of employees within a production facility usually requires analogous, long-term planning, which is not very robust, i.e. cannot be handled very flexibly in the event of unforeseen events. A higher level of resilience is therefore desirable for the highest possible or stable throughput of a production plant.

Proceeding from this, the object of the present invention is to at least partially overcome the disadvantages known from the prior art. The features according to the invention result from the independent claims, for which advantageous configurations are shown in the dependent claims. The features of the claims can be combined in any technically meaningful way, whereby the explanations from the following description and features from the figures can also be used for this purpose, which include additional configurations of the invention.

1. a. Führen eines Registers von Mitarbeitern;
2. b. über eine Schnittstelle, in dem Register von Mitarbeitern Ablegen von mitarbeiterbezogenen Informationen betreffend eine jeweilige Qualifikation;
3. c. Führen einer Liste von Qualifikationsanforderungen spezifisch für jeweils einzelne Stationen einer Produktionsanlage;
4. d. mittels eines Prozessors, Zuordnen der Mitarbeiter zu zumindest einer Station der Produktionsanlage auf Basis von:
   • - der abgelegten mitarbeiterbezogenen Informationen betreffend die jeweilige Qualifikation, und
   • - der jeweiligen Qualifikationsanforderung für die betreffende Station;
5. e. über eine Schnittstelle, Überwachen und Ablegen einer aktuellen Verfügbarkeit von den in dem Register geführten Mitarbeitern; und
6. f. mittels eines Prozessors, Einteilen der verfügbaren Mitarbeiter auf die Stationen der Produktionsanlage abhängig von der Zuordnung gemäß Schritt d. und von der gemäß Schritt e. abgelegten aktuellen Verfügbarkeit.

The invention relates to a method for planning the use of qualified employees in a production plant, having the following steps for execution in a memory device of a computer:

1. a. maintaining a register of employees;
2. b. via an interface, in the register of employees filing of employee-related information regarding a respective qualification;
3. c. maintaining a list of qualification requirements specific to each individual station of a production facility;
4. i.e. by means of a processor, assigning the employees to at least one station of the production plant on the basis of:
   • - the stored employee-related information regarding the respective qualification, and
   • - the specific qualification requirement for the station in question;
5. e. via an interface, monitoring and filing a current availability of the employees kept in the register; and
6. f. by means of a processor, allocating the available employees to the stations of the production plant depending on the assignment according to step d. and from the step e. stored current availability.

Unless explicitly stated otherwise, ordinal numbers used in the description above and below only serve to clearly distinguish them and do not reflect any order or ranking of the components referred to. An ordinal number greater than one does not mean that another such component must necessarily be present.

A method for planning the deployment of qualified employees in a production plant is therefore proposed here, the method being set up for execution in a memory device of an executing computer. The executing computer includes the memory device and at least one processor (or a connection to an external processor), as well as at least one interface, which is set up for communication with an employee (as a human-machine interface) and/or with another computer. It should be noted that neither the computer nor the storage device is necessarily a central organ for carrying out the method. Rather, a plurality of computers and/or storage units are provided, for example for the purpose of carrying out this process, interact digitally and communicate with one another without external intervention.

It should be noted that in one embodiment the processor, or at least part of the processor, is external to the executing computer. For example, the executing computer is connected to a processor arrangement for high-performance calculations by means of a cloud, so that the complex calculation steps or iteration steps of the method can be calculated using the processor arrangement in a predetermined time. In an alternative embodiment, the executing computer is itself a high-performance computer that is set up to execute the method. For example, the executing computer is connected to the internal video surveillance system by means of the interface for monitoring and is set up for facial recognition of the employees.

In the method, in a step a. a register maintained by a large number of employees. The register includes, for example, the names, personnel numbers, qualifications, current availability, entry dates, contact details and, if necessary, further information about all employees in the production plant. The register represents a data basis for the procedure.

In one embodiment, the register already exists as an analog and/or digital database. For example, the register was kept manually and/or automatically during regular qualification training or when employees were hired. Thus, in this embodiment, the register does not need to be created for the first time, or only to a limited extent (for example its digitization), so that it can be used for the method. The fact that the register is kept does not mean that it will be set up first, nor that changes will necessarily be made to it. It is at least available for the steps explained below and digital access is possible, and preferably continuously changeable according to needs. Digital access is set up, for example, via a so-called API [English: Application Programming Interface] or, in an integral embodiment, program-internally.

In step b. of the procedure, the respective information relating to the associated qualifications is or is stored for the employees (kept in the register) by means of an interface. In one embodiment, the interface is designed as a man-machine interface, so that the qualification in question is manually filed in the register, for example after the employee in question has been trained.

In an alternative embodiment, the interface is designed as a so-called API [English: Application Programming Interface], so that the information, which includes the respective qualifications of an employee, is stored from an existing information source, for example a documentation of qualifications of an employee training course, in which It was recorded when each employee obtained the relevant qualification. In this embodiment, the information about the qualifications of the relevant employees can be stored directly in the register using the interface, which is designed as an API.

In step c. of the procedure, a list of qualification requirements is kept which are specific to individual stations of a production plant. The list of qualification requirements includes those qualifications that are required for a specific activity within a station in the production plant. For example, several sheets of metal are connected to one another in a station using spot welding, so that the qualification requirement there must at least include qualification for a spot welder.

It should be noted that not all of the employees employed there need to have the same qualifications, for example it is sufficient for one station of the production plant if only one of the employees has the qualification for spot welding and the other employees carry out other activities within the station or can be guided in their work by the (higher) qualified employee.

In one embodiment, this list of skill requirements already exists in manual and/or digital form within the manufacturing facility. It is therefore not necessary or only to a limited extent (for example its digitization) to create the list and it is at least available for the steps explained below and digital access is possible and preferably changeable after any restructuring that has been carried out. In an alternative embodiment, the list of qualification requirements in step c. of the process is created so that access is then given to the list of qualification requirements of the respective station of the production plant for the steps of the process.

It should be pointed out that a corresponding number of lists are maintained for a production plant with a plurality of stations. This is stored as grouped information relating to the work steps at a particular station. It should also be noted that the qualification requirements also include the number of (suitably qualified) employees required to operate the station.

In step d. of the method are or are assigned to at least one station of the production plant by means of the processor of the computer. The assignment is based on information stored in the register and the respective qualification requirement for the relevant station according to the lists mentioned. Based on the requirements described, a group of employees who meet the qualification requirements there are assigned to the relevant station of the production plant. It is therefore known which employee can be deployed for which ward. By means of this assignment, specific dependencies (groupings) are created in the process between the qualification requirements of the stations and the qualifications of the employees. For example, a qualification to use a pneumatic wrench is required at a number of stations. It should be noted that assignment of staff to stations does not mean actual assignment to work at that station.

In step e. During the process, the current availability of the employees listed in the register is monitored by means of a further interface and stored accordingly in the register. In one embodiment, the interface is set up in such a way that an employee and thus his presence and current availability is recognized, for example, by means of an access control to the factory premises. The word monitoring here means recognizing the individual employee and detecting their presence, so that in step e. the presence of the employees is monitored and stored digitally via the interface. The employees are preferably monitored and filed using an interface other than the interface that was used in step a. was used, so that the respective interfaces are suitable for a different process step.

In one embodiment, the monitoring takes place via the interface by means of an access control to the station, to the production plant, to the building or to the factory premises or another entity. The interface is designed as a man-machine interface. The employees show their specific access authorization ID at this human-machine interface. The access authorization pass is, for example, a magnetic stripe card, a chip card or what is known as a dongle, i.e. an integrated circuit with a single-wire technology interface, or by means of RFID [English: Radio-Frequency IDentification]. This records the current availability of the respective employee. The current availability is stored in the register (or in a separate availability list in the memory device).

For example, to enter the plant, an initial access check must be carried out using the access authorization pass, with the general current availability of the employee being checked in step e. of the procedure is filed. Alternatively or additionally, more closely timed monitoring can be implemented by means of an (additional) interface when entering the stations by means of a (renewed) access control, for example on a machine within the station. Alternatively or additionally, an individualized security feature must be entered by each employee within the wards, for example a PIN [Personal Identification Number] or a biometric security feature (e.g. fingerprint, facial recognition, voice recognition), so that personal identification and thus monitoring of the employee can be displayed .

In an additional or alternative embodiment, the monitoring is carried out by means of the interface by recognizing a radio signal, for example from a means of communication (for example a smart phone), which is detected when a predetermined area is entered. Such radio communication is based, for example, on one or more standardized technologies, such as PAN [Personal Area Network], WLAN [Wireless Local Area Network] or mobile radio, preferably the 5G standard [fifth generation of mobile radio]. This is an example in which the (additional) interface required for this for monitoring is implemented as an API (English: Application Programming Interface).

In one embodiment, a calendar is additionally or alternatively monitored, in which the presences and thus the current availability of the employees are recorded. Entries in this calendar can be made manually, for example. The employees are to be instructed accordingly to also store short-term changes in this calendar. the (additional) interface required for this for monitoring is implemented as an API (application programming interface).

It should be noted that a current availability can change continuously, for example due to illness, accidents, as well as the need of employees due to disruptions at the station or another station. The qualification requirements of the stations are also monitored and not purely static values. For example, a different (for example higher) number of differently qualified and/or more highly qualified employees than are currently assigned to the station must be used to rectify faults.

How the monitoring is carried out should be adapted to the local data protection regulations and the reliability of the required cooperation of the employees.

It should be noted that the order of the above steps a. to e., are interchangeable, depending on the embodiment of registers of employees, lists of the qualification requirements of the stations and monitoring of the current availability of employees and whether registers and lists are already available in advance.

In step f., the processor is used to process the data in step e. monitored and thus currently available employees based on the in step d. determined assignment, which was determined based on the necessary qualification requirements of each station, divided among the stations.

In one embodiment, the processor is implemented in such a way that the classification is continuously adapted (preferably in time sequences considered useful) using a fixed algorithm or with penalty functions, in several computing loops and/or generations (for example an evolutionary algorithm). In one embodiment, the problem is performed using AI [artificial intelligence], for example with ML [machine learning] and/or so-called deep learning, preferably taking into account other parameters such as usual behavior of employees and/or actions in process flows that cause or prevent resilience the production plant. The method proposed here enables a continuous adjustment of the assignment of the employees within a production plant, whereby human errors are almost impossible and a high temporal resolution of the constantly changing conditions can be achieved, above all due to the current availability, but also due to changing qualifications. This enables stable operation of a production plant, with a high quality standard being achievable.

1. i. beherrscht Anlernung von anderen Mitarbeitern zum Arbeiten an der betreffenden Station;
2. ii. beherrscht Notstrategie für die betreffende Station;
3. iii. beherrscht Arbeit an der betreffenden Station;
4. iv. befindet sich in Qualifikation für die betreffende Station; und
5. v. Qualifikation für die betreffende Station ist geplant.

It is also proposed in an advantageous embodiment of the method that the information on the respective qualification includes a gradation of the station-related qualification of the employee concerned, with at least two of the following gradations being included:

1. i. capable of training other employees to work at the relevant station;
2. ii. masters emergency strategy for the station in question;
3. iii. masters work at the station in question;
4. IV. is in qualification for the station in question; and
5. v. Qualification for the station in question is planned.

It is now proposed here that the information on a respective station-related qualification is stored in employee-specific gradations. Qualification requirements are thus stored for each station, which are to be fulfilled by an employee, with the necessary qualification of the employee being stored in gradations. The lowest level, i.e. the one with the lowest quality of a station-related qualification, is level v..

It should be noted that, of course, there are employees without the required qualifications and without the plan to qualify this employee. However, the gradations here are assigned employees, i.e. employees who are qualified in some way for the station in question. Other employees are not included here.

If an employee has the level v. station qualification possesses, the employee is not or not yet suitable for this level, because initially it is planned to obtain the station-related qualification. For example, the employee has been newly recruited, so that no appropriate qualification training has yet been carried out. However, such an employee may already be used for training, provided that sufficient capacities are available and an employee with an associated qualification of level i. is divided.

The next level is level iv. This level contains the information that the employee is in training to obtain a specific qualification. Thus preferably includes the stage iv. additionally the information of level v. For example, the employee learns in level iv. using a pneumatic screwdriver or a punching machine. Such an employee is also to be used for training, if sufficient corresponding capacities are available and an employee with an associated qualification of level i. is divided. Optionally, compared to stage v. a higher number of such employees can be used because the effort required for training is lower.

In the next higher level iii. the training for the relevant qualification has been completed so that the employee is able to work at the relevant station. This means that this employee can be deployed at the relevant station without supervision or further training. In addition, a division can be carried out by means of the method without additional support from this employee. Stage iii. the information of the previous stages v. and iv., for example with the date when the respective qualification levels were started and/or achieved.

The next higher level of station qualification information is level ii., where for a level ii. the staff member possesses a similar station-related qualification as in level iii., while remaining proficient in operating an emergency strategy within the relevant station. The employee concerned has the ability to react to faults in the station or a machine or to operate it safely and in a material-friendly manner in an emergency, so that the production plant can continue to be operated (preferably almost trouble-free).

The highest level of gradation of the information of the respective qualification is level i., where the information of level i. (preferably all) previous (lower) stages. This employee masters the training of other employees for this station-related qualification. Due to the training, it is also possible to classify employees who do not have at least stage iii. master the station-related qualification.

It should be noted that, in one embodiment, the number of employees required is dependent on the particular level of skill of the assigned employees. For example, training uses up capacities or employees with higher qualifications are faster than employees with less qualifications due to their greater practice.

It is also proposed in an advantageous embodiment of the method that a team of employees for a station is composed according to the regulations according to the gradations.

The allocation to the respective wards is carried out in the procedure by comparing the ward-related qualification requirements and the information about the ward-related qualifications of the individual employees. Depending on the availability of the employees, there are different compositions of the teams of employees at a station. In the process, the classification is carried out according to the regulations according to the gradations.

In one embodiment, such a rule is designed such that a team is assigned such that all employees are level iii. master the station-related qualification and at least one employee has at least level ii. or higher. For example, in this embodiment, each employee then masters the work at the station in question, with one employee also mastering the emergency strategy for the station in question. For example, an emergency strategy also means operating a station with a reduced number of employees.

Alternatively, according to this regulation, the team of employees is divided in such a way that an employee according to level i. is qualified (teaching ability), so that the rest of the team can be divided up from employees who have not yet mastered the work at the station in question, for example Sufen iv. and/or v.. Due to the gradation of the one employee who masters the training, it is also possible to operate the station with less qualified employees.

It should be noted that the two embodiments described above represent extreme examples of a team composition and the regular operation preferably consists of a larger number of employees who have at least the qualification of level iii. exhibit. It should also be pointed out that the gradations are chosen differently and that different regulations result from this. It should also be pointed out that there are also employees who are only required in a station for a short time and/or sporadically (for example to monitor, for example relating to the electronics) and are therefore assigned to a number of stations if necessary. If such employees are required for a longer period of time (e.g. due to a malfunction or maintenance work), the allocation of employees may be adjusted accordingly.

It is further proposed in an advantageous embodiment of the method that the assigned employees are informed in good time via a communication means via a communication interface of the executing computer,
the available ones preferably via a communication interface of the executing computer and unassigned employees are informed in a timely manner via a means of communication.

If in step f. the assignment of the employees to the stations in question is complete, a notification is sent to the employees in question by means of the communication interface of the executing computer. Underutilization of the production plant can thus be avoided, for example as a result of an increased target specification for products to be produced and/or a loss of employees. In this case, the notification of the assigned employees takes place by means of a communication means which is set up for communication by means of the communication interface with the executing computer. For example, the means of communication is a telephone (e.g. using an automatic announcement), a smart phone (e.g. using a push message) and/or a beeper (also called a pager) and/or an Internet-enabled computer (e.g. using e-mail). It should be noted that the notification is made in a timely manner, for example before the employee concerned has arrived at the plant or production facility, preferably before the employee has left home. But also within working hours, for example in such a timely manner that the employee who is to be redeployed, for example, can complete his or her work at the station and/or can prepare a handover, and can also arrive at the new station in good time.

If in step f. in a preferred embodiment the allocation of employees to the relevant stations is completed in such a way that there is a general surplus of employees or for the current situation at the current station there is a surplus of employees, the communication interface of the executing Computers issued a notification to the employees concerned. This means that an excessive number of employees can be avoided, for example as a result of a lower target for the products to be produced or the failure of one station. The communication and the timing of the notifications is, for example, as explained above.

• - Verzicht auf Betreiben der betroffenen Station;
• - Zuwerben von externen für die betroffenen Station ausreichend qualifizierten Arbeitern; oder
• - Umverteilen der Mitarbeiter von vollständig besetzten Stationen und Verzicht auf Betreiben zumindest einer dieser zuvor vollständig besetzten Stationen und/oder Zuwerben von externen ausreichend qualifizierten Arbeitern für zumindest eine dieser zuvor vollständig besetzten Stationen,

wobei bevorzugt diese Entscheidung von einem externen Computer der Produktionsanlage getroffen wird.It is also proposed in an advantageous embodiment of the method that, in the event of a shortage of employees for a station, a processor calculates which of the following decisions is made in accordance with the regulations:

• - renunciation of operation of the affected station;
• - Recruitment of external workers sufficiently qualified for the affected station; or
• - Reallocation of employees from fully manned stations and refraining from operating at least one of these previously fully manned stations and/or recruiting external sufficiently qualified workers for at least one of these previously fully manned stations,

this decision preferably being made by an external computer of the production plant.

If the interface for monitoring the current availability detects a lack of employees for a station, for example because a number of employees are absent at short notice (e.g. due to illness or disruptions), the processor performs a calculation to make one of the aforementioned decisions. The calculation is based on the regulations implemented within the procedure.

In one embodiment, the decision is to forego operating the station in question, such that that station is excluded from current production. The calculation for this decision is made, for example, if an existing buffer of components at the relevant station is filled in sufficient quantity so that production can continue using the buffer inventory. If necessary, a plurality of stations of the same type are provided, so that a production process remains stable.

In an alternative embodiment, the decision is to recruit external workers sufficiently qualified for the station in question. For example, the qualification requirements for the station in question are designed in such a way that no or only a low qualification or only one employee with a qualification of level i. for the station in question is sufficient to train the external workers and thus the station in question can continue to be operated. For example, external workers can be recruited through an employment agency or temporary employment agency.

It should be noted that planned absences (e.g. due to further training) are also taken into account and are therefore usually planned a few days in advance. Such processes are not or only with difficulty foreseeable for the purely human processing due to the mostly highly complex production plant.

In a further alternative embodiment, the decision to redistribute staff from a fully manned station so that by means of the created availability of qualified Employees at the other station, which has a shortage of employees, is allowed to continue operating. In addition, the procedure is used to decide that the now incompletely manned stations will be operated using external and station-related qualified workers who are recruited. For example, this decision is calculated when a predetermined number of employees with a sufficient qualification, for example with level i. and/or stage ii., are present such that the relevant station is operable with the recruited external workers. It should be noted that the result of a redistribution decision can be that redistribution to other stations also makes sense. Such a set of problems can be solved by a processor with good results, for example by means of a metaheuristic in conjunction with penalty functions.

It should be noted that redeployment also includes notifying employees who are currently only partially available (e.g. on call) that they are now needed.

In a preferred embodiment, one and/or a plurality of the embodiments described above is calculated as a decision by means of an external computer. At least part of the external computer is arranged in the production plant or assigned to the production plant and set up in such a way that at least part of the method, for example step e. and/or step f. of the method can be carried out there. It should be noted that the calculation of the decisions is part of the calculation of step e. and/or step f. is included, so that the employees concerned can inform the external workers in a timely manner, if necessary.

In addition, it should be mentioned that the process is a dynamic and ongoing process, so that if there is a shortage of employees during a shift that is already in progress, the decisions are recalculated.

• - eine Metaheuristik, bevorzugt ein evolutionärer Algorithmus;
• - ein MachineLearning-Algorithmus; und
• - ein Brute-Force-Algorithmus.

It is also proposed in an advantageous embodiment of the method that at least one of the following algorithms is used by the respective processor for the classification in step f. and/or for making the decision according to an embodiment according to the above description:

• - a metaheuristic, preferably an evolutionary algorithm;
• - a MachineLearning algorithm; and
• - a brute force algorithm.

The classification in step f. and/or the making of the decisions of the method takes place by means of the processor, the processor using a predetermined algorithm. Such an algorithm is designed in such a way that it makes the described complex optimization problem solvable (at least in a satisfactory approximation) or finds such solutions that do not disrupt the production process or only to a small extent. Trouble-free operability of the relevant production plant and the lowest possible use of employees represent one of the boundary conditions that open up the solution space.

In one embodiment, the algorithm used is a metaheuristic. The metaheuristic calculates an abstract sequence of steps, which are iterated until a solution calculated within the implemented boundary conditions is found. A metaheuristic based on an evolutionary algorithm is preferably used. In an evolutionary algorithm, solution candidates for a specific problem are artificially evolved, i.e. artificially further developed, so that further possible solutions are examined by means of the so-called mutations of the solution candidates and, if necessary, discarded or further evolved. This happens until a solution has been found that lies within the boundary conditions and can be mapped in the production plant.

In an alternative embodiment, the algorithm used is a machine learning algorithm. The machine learning algorithm is an artificial system that learns from examples and generalizes the examples after the learning phase has ended. The examples are manually and/or machine-generated examples of a classification of employees for specific problems. Based on the generalizations, the machine learning algorithm independently finds solutions for certain problems, so that new solutions based on the generalizations are calculated for new problems (e.g. a lack of employees at a station that has not previously had any shortages).

In another alternative embodiment, the algorithm used is a brute force algorithm. The brute force algorithm describes the most natural and simplest approach to an algorithmic solution to a problem. This consists of trying all potential solutions until the right one is found. Using the brute force algorithm, all combinations tried out by employees at the different stations of the production plant based on the qualification requirements and the qualifications of the employees. This happens until a predetermined solution is present within the solution space. The brute force algorithm is a very computationally intensive algorithm, so that the processor on which the brute force algorithm is implemented is set up to execute it accordingly.

• - eine Mehrzahl von Stationen;
• - zumindest eine Schnittstelle zum Überwachen von der aktuellen Verfügbarkeit von ausreichend qualifizierten Mitarbeitern für die Stationen;
• - zumindest eine Schnittstelle zu einem Computer, welcher zum Ausführen eines Verfahrens nach einer Ausführungsform gemäß der obigen Beschreibung eingerichtet ist.

According to a further aspect, a production plant for manufacturing a product is proposed, having at least the following components:

• - a plurality of stations;
• - at least one interface for monitoring the current availability of sufficiently qualified employees for the stations;
• - at least one interface to a computer which is set up to carry out a method according to an embodiment according to the above description.

The production plant proposed here is designed in such a way that it has a high degree of automation. A degree of automation results from the ratio of those process steps that can be carried out using machines and/or devices to the total number of process steps. For example, the production plant is designed in such a way that many process steps for manufacturing a product can be carried out automatically and autonomously. In one embodiment, in addition to classic fully automatic machine tools, robots are used which transport, move and/or connect components to one another.

In a preferred embodiment, the production plant is set up to manufacture a motor vehicle. Today's motor vehicles include up to ten thousand components that are arranged and connected to one another. In this embodiment, these components of a motor vehicle can be connected by means of robots and/or employees.

In this case, the production plant comprises a plurality of stations, one or a plurality of process steps being executable in one station. At least one employee, preferably a team of employees, is divided into a plurality of stations, so that they carry out the at least one process step within the station. For example, the doors of a motor vehicle are arranged and connected to the vehicle structure in a station. Each door is to be installed by one employee.

Furthermore, the production facility includes at least one interface which is set up to monitor the current availability of sufficiently qualified employees for the stations. In one embodiment, the interface for monitoring is implemented as a man-machine interface. For example, before the machine in question is activated, an employee-specific access control must be carried out by means of an access authorization means, only then can the machine in question be operated. Due to the employee-specific access control, it is possible to monitor the current availability at a station.

In an alternative embodiment, the interface is designed as an API (application programming interface), so that the presence (current availability) of the employees is detected independently using the interface. For example, each employee wears an employee-specific radio transmitter, which is received by the interface. Alternatively or additionally, the interface is designed as a camera system and is equipped with face recognition, so that the employees present in a station can be identified or monitored by means of the camera system. In a simple embodiment, an employee has logged in at the relevant station (for example with a PIN [English: Personal Identification Number]) and is instructed to log out again when leaving the station.

The production plant includes a further interface which is connected in a communicating manner to at least one computer, the at least one computer being set up to carry out the method described above. In one embodiment, the interface is set up to communicate with a cloud and/or has a direct communication connection with the executing computer. Thus, access from each station to the executing computer and vice versa is made possible by means of the interface. As an alternative or in addition, another computer is included in the production facility, which is connected to the executing computer so that it communicates. This (additional) computer of the production plant is set up in such a way that at least part of the method can be executed in it.

In an alternative embodiment, the computer of the production plant is connected to the further interface, the further interface being designed as a man-machine interface, so that, for example, the allocation of employees can be communicated directly to the employees via the respective station. Steps e are then carried out. and f. on the processor of the manufacturing plant computer.

It should be pointed out that the computer of the production plant also includes a memory device in addition to a processor, so that at least part of the method can be executed on the computer of the production plant.

• - in der Produktionsanlage angeordnet ist; und/oder
• - zur Kommunikation mit einer Cloud, auf welcher bevorzugt zumindest ein Teil des Computerprogrammcodes bereitgestellt ist, eingerichtet ist.

According to a further aspect, a computer program is proposed, comprising
a computer program code, wherein the computer program code can be executed on at least one computer in such a way that the at least one computer is caused to execute the method according to an embodiment as described above, wherein at least one unit of the computer:

• - is arranged in the production plant; and or
• - Is set up to communicate with a cloud on which at least part of the computer program code is preferably provided.

According to this embodiment, the method described here is computer-implemented. The computer-implemented method is stored as computer program code, which computer program code, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to execute the method according to an embodiment as described above.

The computer-implemented method is realized, for example, by a computer program, the computer program comprising the computer program code, wherein the computer program code, when executed on a computer, causes the computer to execute the method according to an embodiment as described above. Computer program code is synonymous with one or more instructions or commands that cause a computer or processor to perform a series of operations that represent, for example, an algorithm and/or other processing methods.

The computer program can preferably be executed partially or completely on a server or a server unit of a cloud system, a handheld (for example a smartphone) and/or on at least one unit of the computer. The term server or server unit refers here to such a computer which provides data and/or operational services or services for one or more other computer-based devices or computers and thus forms the cloud system. The at least one unit of the computer in the production plant is, for example, an edge device or a (for example conventionally designed) control device, which is connected to a memory unit and a processor or includes them (at least in part). Alternatively or additionally, the at least one unit (designed here as an interface) of the computer is set up to communicate with at least one server and/or a cloud, with the server and/or the cloud being arranged on-site at a manufacturer of the computer, for example. The terms cloud system or computer are used here synonymously with the devices known from the prior art. A computer thus includes one or more general purpose processors (CPU) or microprocessors, RISC processors, GPU and/or DSP. For example, the computer has additional elements such as memory interfaces or communication interfaces. Optionally or additionally, the terms refer to such a device which is able to run a provided or linked program, preferably using a standardized programming language (e.g. C++, JavaScript or Python) and/or to control data storage devices and/or other devices such as input interfaces and output interfaces and/or access it. The term computer also denotes a plurality of processors or a plurality of (sub)computers which are interconnected and/or connected and/or otherwise communicatively linked and possibly share one or more other resources, such as memory. A (data) memory is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a (non-volatile) solid-state memory, for example a ROM memory or flash memory [flash EEPROM]. The memory often comprises a plurality of individual physical units or is distributed over a large number of separate devices, so that it can be accessed via data communication, for example package data service. The latter is a decentralized solution in which memory and processors from a large number of separate computers are used instead of a (single) central server or in addition to a central server.

• - in der Produktionsanlage angeordnet ist; und/oder
• - zur Kommunikation mit einer Cloud, auf welcher bevorzugt zumindest ein Teil des Computerprogrammcodes bereitgestellt ist, eingerichtet ist.

According to a further aspect, a computer program product is proposed on which
a computer program code is stored, the computer program code being executable on at least one computer in such a way that the at least one computer is prompted to execute the method according to an embodiment according to perform the above description, wherein at least one unit of the computer:

• - is arranged in the production plant; and or
• - Is set up to communicate with a cloud on which at least part of the computer program code is preferably provided.

The computer program product having a computer program code according to an embodiment according to the above description is, for example, a medium such as RAM, ROM, an SD card, a memory card, a flash memory card or a disc. Alternatively, the computer program product is stored on a server and can be downloaded . As soon as the computer program has been made readable via a readout unit (for example a drive and/or an installation), the computer program code contained therein and the method contained therein can be executed by a computer or in communication with a plurality of server units, for example in accordance with the above description.

• 1: ein Flussdiagramm eines Verfahrens zum Planen des Einsatzes qualifizierter Mitarbeiter in einer Produktionsanlage;
• 2: eine Abstufung der stationsbezogenen Qualifikation von Mitarbeitern in einem Flussdiagramm; und
• 3: eine Produktionsanlage in einer schematischen Ansicht.

The invention described above is explained in detail below against the relevant technical background with reference to the accompanying drawings, which show preferred embodiments. The invention is in no way restricted by the purely schematic drawings, it being noted that the drawings are not true to scale and are not suitable for defining size relationships. It is presented in

• 1 : a flowchart of a method for planning the use of qualified employees in a production facility;
• 2 : a gradation of the station-related qualification of employees in a flow chart; and
• 3 : a production plant in a schematic view.

In 1 is a flowchart of a method for planning the use of qualified employees 1,2,3 in a production plant 4, for example as in 3 shown. In the following description, reference numbers of the production plant 4 are used, in this respect reference is made to the description in Fig 3 referred. In the method, in a step a. a register maintained by a large number of employees 1,2,3. The register includes, for example, the names, personnel numbers, qualifications, current availability, entry dates, contact details and, if necessary, further information about all employees 1,2,3 of the production plant 4. The register represents a data basis for the method. The register is in this exemplary embodiment already as a digital database on a storage device 5 of an executing computer 6. For example, the register was kept manually and/or automatically during regular qualification training or when employees were hired.

In step b. of the process, the respective information relating to the associated qualifications is filed for the employees 1,2,3 listed in the register by means of an interface 7. The interface 7 is designed as a man-machine interface in this exemplary embodiment, so that the qualification in question is manually stored in the register, for example after the employee 1,2,3 in question has been trained. In an alternative exemplary embodiment, the interface 7 is designed as an API (application programming interface) so that the information relating to the qualifications of the employees 1,2,3 in step b. can be stored in the register by means of the interface 7.

In step c. of the method, a list of qualification requirements, which are specific to individual stations 8 of a production plant 4, is managed. The list of qualification requirements includes those qualifications which are required for a specific activity within a station 8 in the production facility 4 . For example, in a station 8, several metal sheets are connected to one another by means of spot welding, so that the qualification requirement there must include at least the qualification for a spot welder. In one exemplary embodiment, the list of qualification requirements has already been prepared during the planning of the production facility 4, so that this list is already available and can be used for the method.

In step d. of the method are or are assigned to at least one station 8 of the production plant 4 by means of the processor 9 of the computer 6 (i.e. all) the employees 1 , 2 , 3 listed in the register. The assignment is based on information stored in the register and the respective qualification requirement for the relevant station 8 according to the lists mentioned. Thus, on the basis of the requirements described, a group of employees 1,2,3 who meet the local qualification requirements are assigned to the relevant station 8 of the production facility 4. So it is known which employee 1,2,3 can be used for which station 8. By means of this assignment, concrete dependencies (groups) between the Qua lification requirements of the stations 8 and the qualifications of the employees 1,2,3 created. For example, a qualification for the use of a pneumatic screwdriver is required at a plurality of stations 8 .

In step e. During the process, the current availability of the employees listed in the register is monitored by means of a further interface 10 and stored accordingly in the register. In one embodiment, the interface 10 is set up in such a way that an employee 1,2,3 and thus his presence and current availability is recognized, for example, by means of an access control to the factory premises.

By monitoring the current availability of the employees 1,2,3, a current availability and thus a dynamically updated calculation of the allocation is made possible. If, for example, an employee 1 is absent during a current shift, the method can be used to redistribute the employees 1, 2, 3 and thus continue to operate the production plant 4. In one exemplary embodiment, the interface 10 is designed in such a way that the interface 10 is designed as a camera system which monitors the current availability of the employees 1,2,3 using face recognition.

In step f., the processor 9 processes in step e. monitored and thus currently available employees 1,2,3 based on the step d. determined assignment, which was determined based on the necessary qualification requirements of each station 8, divided into the stations 8.

In 2 a gradation of the station-related qualification of employees 1,2,3 is shown in a flow chart of the progress of a qualification. The information on a respective ward-related qualification is stored in employee-specific gradations. Thus, 8 qualification requirements are stored for each station, which are to be met by an employee 1,2,3, with the necessary qualification of the employee 1,2,3 being stored in gradations. The lowest gradation, i.e. the one with the lowest quality of a station-related qualification, is level v. and the highest level i..

In the highest gradation, here level i., a (first type of) employee 1 masters the training of another (third type of) employee 3 to work at the relevant station 8. This means that an employee 1 has level i. enabled to carry out his work at the relevant station 8 and/or to train another employee 3 who has a qualification at a lower level. In some cases, such an employee 1 can only be used either as a working employee or as a training employee, so that there is no additional capacity if an employee 3 has to be trained.

The next lower level is level ii. In this level, the (first type of) employee 1 masters the emergency strategy of the station 8 in question. The employee 1 in question has the ability to react to faults in the station 8 or a machine or in to operate safely and gently in an emergency operation, so that the production plant 4 (preferably almost trouble-free) can continue to be operated.

The next gradation here is stage iii. suggested. In stage iii. a (second type of) employee 2 masters the work for the relevant station 8 without further supervision. However, the employee 2 does not (yet) master the training and/or the emergency strategy for these stations 8 in this gradation.

The next lower gradation is level iv. In this gradation, the (third type of) employee 3 is qualified for the relevant station 8. For example, this employee 3 is just learning how to handle a machine correctly or the correct sequence of a process step within it a station 8.

The lowest gradation is level v. Within this gradation, a qualification for a relevant station 8 is planned for the (third type of) employee 3, so that he/she does not master the activity. It should be noted that different qualifications are required for different activities and/or process steps.

It should also be pointed out that an employee 1.2 can have a large number of qualifications in a wide variety of gradations, both for different stations 8 and for different tasks at a station 8. It should be pointed out that the designation or categorization of the employees a certain type should only serve as an overview (compare 3 ).

In 3 a production plant 4 is shown in a schematic view. The production plant 4 includes a plurality of (purely optional and according to the illustration three) stations 8, each station 8 being assigned a team of employees 1,2,3, ie the employees 1,2,3 are divided. Each station 8 includes a station-specific qualification requirement. The employees 1,2,3 master different qualifications in different gradations, with the qualification requirements Allocation of employees 1,2,3 to the various stations 8 conditional. Each station 8 is set up in such a way that a predetermined process step can be carried out within a station 8 so that a finished product 14 (according to the illustration, a motor vehicle) is created at the end of the production plant 4 .

Furthermore, the production facility 4 includes an interface 10 for monitoring the current availability of the employees 1 , 2 , 3 within the production facility 4 or the stations 8 . In this exemplary embodiment, the interface 10 is designed purely as an option as an RFID reader. The monitoring of the current availability of the employees 1,2,3 within the production plant 4 can be displayed using an employee-related access authorization pass. This interface 10 communicates with a computer 13 of the production plant 4 . This computer 13 of the production plant 4 comprises at least one processor 9 and a memory device 5, the processor 9 or the computer 13 of the production plant 4 being at least partly used to carry out the method 1 is set up.

In this exemplary embodiment, the computer 13 of the production plant 4 is in turn (purely optionally by means of a cloud 16) connected in a communicating manner to an executing computer 6 . For example, the executing computer 6 is arranged outside of the production plant 4, for example even outside the factory in which the production plant 4 is arranged. The executing computer 6 comprises at least one processor 9 and a memory device 5, within the memory device 5 or in the cloud 16 the register of employees 1,2,3 and the list of qualification requirements of the stations 8 of the method 1 are filed and managed (if necessary dynamically). The executing computer 6 is set up to execute the method. In addition, the executing computer 6 includes an interface 7 which is set up to process or record the register. For example, the interface 7 is a man-machine interface at which employee-specific data can be entered. In addition, the executing computer 6 includes an interface 15, with the further interface 15 being designed as a man-machine interface, so that, for example, the assignment of the employees 1,2,3 to the stations 8 can be communicated and/or the qualification requirements can be communicated using the interface 15 can be stored or changed.

Furthermore, the executing computer 6 includes a communication interface 11, by means of the communication interface 11 a transmission of data can be carried out. The transmitted data can be received and read using a communication means 12 . The communication interface 11 can be used to inform specific employees 1 , 2 , 3 of work assignments in a timely manner. For example, an excess of employees 1,2 within the production plant 4 has been allocated or calculated using the method, so that the excess employees 1,2,3 can be informed in good time using the means of communication 12 (for example a smartphone). This ensures that the surplus is redistributed to employees 1,2,3 to other production facilities 4 or their deployment site can be assigned in a timely manner.

In the example shown, without excluding the general public, the employees are classified 1,2,3 according to their in relation to for the sake of clarity 2 illustrated type. A (first) employee 1 capable of training, a (second) employee 2 able to work independently and a (third) employee 3 to be trained are allocated in the top or first station 8 shown in the figure. Only (second) employees 2 who are able to work independently are assigned to the middle station 8 shown, with a (first) employee 1 being assigned as an alternative to a second employee 2, who has mastered at least one associated emergency strategy. A (first) employee 1 who is capable of training and two (third) employees 3 who are to be trained are assigned to the lowest or last station 8 shown in the drawing.

With the method proposed here, a classification of qualified employees in a production plant can be carried out automatically.

Claims (9)

Method for planning the use of qualified employees (1,2,3) in a production facility (4), having the following steps for execution in a memory device (5) of a computer (6): a. maintaining a register of employees (1,2,3); b. via an interface (7), in the register of employees (1,2,3) filing of employee-related information relating to a respective qualification; c. Maintaining a list of qualification requirements specific to each individual station (8) of a production facility (4); i.e. by means of a processor (9), assigning the employees (1,2,3) to at least one station (8) of the production plant (4) on the basis of: - the stored employee-related information regarding the respective qualification, and - the respective qualification requirement for the relevant station (8); e. via an interface (10), monitoring and filing a current availability of the employees kept in the register; and f. by means of a processor (9), allocating the available employees to the stations (8) of the production plant (4) depending on the assignment according to step d. and from the step e. stored current availability. procedure after claim 1 , wherein the information on the respective qualification includes a gradation of the station-related qualification of the employees concerned (1,2,3), with at least two of the following gradations being included: i. masters the training of other employees (2.3) to work at the relevant station (8); ii. masters emergency strategy for the station in question (8); iii. masters work at the relevant station (8); IV. is in qualification for the station in question (8); and V. Qualification for the station in question (8) is planned. procedure after claim 2 , wherein a team of employees (1,2,3) for a station (8) is composed according to the regulations according to the gradations. Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the assigned employees (1,2,3) are informed in good time via a communication means (12) via a communication interface (11) of the executing computer (6), the available and not assigned employees being informed in good time via a communication means (12), preferably via a communication interface (11) of the executing computer (6). Method according to one of the preceding claims, in which, in the event of a shortage of employees for a station (8), a processor (9) calculates in accordance with regulations which of the following decisions is made: - renunciation of operation of the affected station (8); - Recruitment of external workers sufficiently qualified for the affected station (8); or - Redistribution of employees (1,2,3) from fully occupied stations (8) and refraining from operating at least one of these previously fully occupied stations (8) and/or recruiting external, sufficiently qualified workers for at least one of these previously fully occupied stations ( 8), this decision preferably being made by an external computer (13) of the production plant (4). Method according to one of the preceding claims, wherein for the classification in step f. and/or for making the decision according to claim 5 at least one of the following algorithms is used by the respective processor (9): - a metaheuristic, preferably an evolutionary algorithm; - a MachineLearning algorithm; and - a brute force algorithm. Production plant (4) for manufacturing a product (14), having at least the following components: - a plurality of stations (8); - At least one interface (10) for monitoring the current availability of sufficiently qualified employees (1,2,3) for the stations (8); - At least one interface (15) to a computer (6,13) which is set up to carry out a method according to one of the preceding claims. Computer program comprising a computer program code, the computer program code being executable on at least one computer (6,13) in such a way that the at least one computer (6,13) is caused to execute the method according to one of claim 1 until claim 6 to be carried out, wherein at least one unit of the computer (6,13): - is arranged in the production plant (4); and/or - is set up for communication with a cloud (16) on which at least part of the computer program code is preferably provided. Computer program product on which a computer program code is stored, the computer program code being executable on at least one computer (6,13) in such a way that the at least one computer (6,13) is prompted to execute the method according to one of claim 1 until claim 6 to be carried out, at least one unit of the computer (6, 13): - being arranged in the production plant (4); and/or - is set up for communication with a cloud (16) on which at least part of the computer program code is preferably provided.

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