JP7483117B1 - Program, device, and system for supporting a worker's work - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide a program for supporting a worker's work. [Solution] The program of the present invention causes a processor to at least: identify a work manual, the work manual including one or more work steps and content; for each of at least one of the one or more work steps, play a partial content corresponding to the work step; receive a first input indicating starting work for the work step; measure an elapsed time from the start of work for the work step; receive a second input indicating finishing work for the work step; and display a time related to an actual work time for the work step, the actual work time for the work step being an elapsed time measured from receiving the first input to receiving the second input. [Selected Figure] Figure 1D

Description

The present invention relates to a program, device, and system for supporting the work of workers.

Traditionally, the work performed has been recorded by hand on paper using notes and checklists after the work has been completed.

Zenken Co., Ltd., "What should you be careful of when performing data integrity on paper?", [online], [searched November 8, 2023], Internet <URL: https://www.di-pharmaceutical.com/question/paper_base.html>

When work content is checked all at once after the work has been completed, it is often done in a sloppy manner without a second look at the work content. Furthermore, with handwritten notes and paper checklists, it is unclear whether the work has actually been completed, and there is a low probability of completion. Furthermore, when the only proof that the work has been performed is a checklist and a report, it is not easy to discover cutting corners or fraud when the work was performed. Furthermore, because the start and end times of the work are recorded by hand, it is not possible to accurately record the amount of work time required. Furthermore, because it is not possible to compare the work results of different workers, there is no opportunity to improve the work. Furthermore, because work reports are created using handwritten notes and checklists, creating them is time-consuming and requires management costs.

The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a program, device, and system for supporting the work of workers.

In one aspect of the present invention, the program of the present invention is a program for supporting the work of a worker, the program being executed in an apparatus, the apparatus being equipped with a processor unit that controls the operation of the apparatus, and the program causes the processor unit to at least perform the following: identify a work manual, the work manual including one or more work steps and content; play partial content corresponding to at least one of the one or more work steps, the partial content being a part of the content; receive a first input indicating the start of work for the work step; measure the elapsed time from the start of work for the work step; receive a second input indicating the end of work for the work step; and display a time related to the actual work time for the work step, the actual work time for the work step being the elapsed time measured from the reception of the first input to the reception of the second input.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the program may further cause the processor unit to determine, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps, whether or not it is necessary to obtain evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed, and, if it is determined that it is necessary to obtain evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed, enable input of evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed, and receive evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the program may further cause the processor unit to determine, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps, whether or not the time elapsed since the start of work for that work step has exceeded a reference work time associated with that work step, and, if it is determined that the time elapsed since the start of work for that work step has exceeded the reference work time, execute a warning indicating that the time elapsed since the start of work for that work step has exceeded the reference work time.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the program may further cause the processor to determine, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps, whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back, and, when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back, enable the first input to be input.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the device is configured to be able to communicate with a server, and the program may further cause the processor to identify a worker who performed at least one of the one or more work steps, and transmit to the server the actual work time for each of the at least one of the one or more work steps performed by the worker, thereby aggregating the results of the work performed by the worker in accordance with the work manual in the server.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the program may further cause the processor to create a report of the work performed in accordance with the work manual based on the actual work time for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps.

In one aspect of the present invention, the device of the present invention is a device for assisting a worker in performing work, the device includes a processor unit that controls the operation of the device, and the processor unit is configured to perform at least the following: identify a work manual, the work manual including one or more work steps and content; for each of at least one of the one or more work steps, play partial content corresponding to the work step, the partial content being a part of the content; receive a first input indicating the start of work for the work step; measure the elapsed time from the start of work for the work step; receive a second input indicating the end of work for the work step; and display a time related to the actual work time for the work step, the actual work time for the work step being the elapsed time measured from the reception of the first input to the reception of the second input.

In one aspect of the present invention, the system of the present invention is a system for supporting a worker's work, the system comprising a server and an apparatus configured to be able to communicate with the server, the apparatus comprising a processor unit for controlling the operation of the apparatus, the processor unit being configured to at least execute the following: identifying a work manual, the work manual including one or more work steps and content; playing partial content corresponding to at least one of the one or more work steps, the partial content being a part of the content; receiving a first input indicating the start of work for the work step; measuring the elapsed time from the start of work for the work step; receiving a second input indicating the end of work for the work step; displaying a time related to an actual work time for the work step, the actual work time for the work step being the elapsed time measured from the reception of the first input to the reception of the second input; and transmitting the actual work time for each of the at least one work step of the one or more work steps to the server as a result of work performed in accordance with the work manual.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the processor unit may be further configured to determine, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps, whether or not it is necessary to obtain evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed, and, when it is determined that it is necessary to obtain evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed, enable input of evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed, and receive evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the processor unit may be further configured to determine, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps, whether or not the time elapsed since the start of work for that work step has exceeded a reference work time associated with that work step, and, if it is determined that the time elapsed since the start of work for that work step has exceeded the reference work time, to issue a warning indicating that the time elapsed since the start of work for that work step has exceeded the reference work time.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the processor unit may be further configured to determine, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps, whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back, and to enable input of the first input when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the processor unit is further configured to identify a worker who performed the work of the at least one work step of the work manual, and transmitting the actual work time of each of the at least one work step of the one or more work steps to the server as a result of the work performed in accordance with the work manual may include transmitting the actual work time of each of the at least one work step of the one or more work steps to the server as a result of the work performed by the worker in accordance with the work manual.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the server may be configured to at least receive results of work performed by a plurality of workers, including the worker, according to the work manual from a plurality of devices, including the device, and analyze the results of the work performed by the plurality of workers according to the work manual.

In one embodiment of the present invention, analyzing the results of the work performed by the multiple workers according to the work manual may include identifying a standard work time that may need to be improved from among standard work times corresponding to the at least one work step in the work manual.

In one embodiment of the present invention, analyzing the results of the work performed by the plurality of workers according to the work manual may include identifying a work step of the at least one work step in the work manual that may need improvement.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the server may be further configured to generate a report of the work performed in accordance with the work manual based on the actual work time of each of the at least one work step of the one or more work steps.

The present invention makes it possible to provide a program, device, and system for assisting workers in their work.

FIG. 1 shows an example of a screen 100 displayed on the device. FIG. 1 shows an example of a screen 110 displayed on the device. FIG. 1 shows an example of a screen 120 displayed on the device. FIG. 1 shows an example of a screen 130 displayed on the device. FIG. 1 shows an example of a screen 140 displayed on the device. FIG. 1 shows an example of a screen 150 displayed on the device. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a graph displayed on a display connected to the server. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a graph displayed on a display connected to the server. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a system 300 for supporting a worker's work. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of information stored in a worker database unit 341. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of information stored in a work manual database unit 342. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of information stored in a work result database unit 343. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of processing executed in the device _320-1. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the process in step S504 in FIG. 5 . FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a process executed by the server 310;

The following terms are used in this specification:

"Content" refers to still images or videos.

"Playing content" means displaying still images or playing video.

The following describes an embodiment of the present invention with reference to the drawings.

1. Transition of screens displayed on the device Fig. 1A shows an example of a screen 100 displayed on the device. Screen 100 is an initial screen for selecting a work manual to be displayed. It is assumed that the program of the present invention is pre-installed on this device.

In the example shown in FIG. 1A, screen 100 displays a list of work manuals that can be selected for display. Screen 100 includes area 101 for the work manual "Generator Maintenance and Inspection Method," area 102 for the work manual "Operation Procedures for Electric Roller Press," area 103 for the work manual "Airplane Maintenance and Inspection Method," area 104 for the work manual "Elevator Maintenance and Inspection Method," area 105 for the work manual "Escalator Repair Method," and area 106 for the work manual "Fire Alarm Maintenance and Inspection." Areas 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, and 106 are configured to be selectable.

FIG. 1B shows an example of a screen 110 displayed on the device. Screen 110 is an example of a screen transitioned to from screen 100 shown in FIG. 1A when an operator selects area 101 in screen 100 shown in FIG. 1A. When an operator selects area 101 in screen 100, the first work step of one or more work steps included in the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators" is displayed, as shown in screen 110. The work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators" includes content.

In the example shown in FIG. 1B, the screen 110 includes a content area 111 for displaying partial content corresponding to the first work step of the work manual, a text area 112 for displaying text corresponding to the first work step of the work manual, a time area 113 for displaying time related to the actual work time corresponding to the first work step of the work manual, an area 114 showing the reference work time and the average work time corresponding to the first work step of the work manual, a work start area 115 for starting the first work step of the work manual, a work transition area 116 for transitioning to the work step next to the first work step of the work manual, and a redo area 117 for redoing the work. The work start area 115, the work transition area 116, and the redo area 117 are configured to be selectable. Note that the partial content corresponding to the first work step of the work manual is part of the content included in the work manual.

In the example shown in FIG. 1B, when the first work step of the work manual "Maintenance and inspection method for generators" is displayed, partial content corresponding to the first work step of the work manual "Maintenance and inspection method for generators" is played back.

In the example shown in FIG. 1B, the time area 113 displays "00:60", which indicates the remaining time of 60 seconds before the start of the first work step in the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators". Also, in the example shown in FIG. 1B, the area 114 displays "00:60", which indicates the standard work time of 60 seconds for the first work step in the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators", and "00:40", which indicates the average work time of 40 seconds for the first work step in the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators".

The text in text area 112, the remaining time in time area 113, and the reference and average work times in area 114 may be displayed differently depending on the work step being displayed.

The worker selects the work start area 115 to start working on the first work step in the work manual. The work start area 115 can be configured so that it cannot be selected until a predetermined time has elapsed from the point in time when partial content corresponding to the first work step in the work manual is played back. For example, the text area 112 can be configured to display information explaining an overview of the work of the first work step in the work manual and information explaining the content of the work of the first work step in the work manual, and the work start area 115 can be configured so that it cannot be selected until the information explaining the overview of the work of the first work step in the work manual is read out by the device.

The work transition area 116 may be configured to be unable to be selected until the work completion area 121, described below, is selected, or until evidence is entered after the evidence input area 132 is selected.

Figure 1C shows an example of a screen 120 displayed on the device. Screen 120 is an example of a screen that appears after transition from screen 110 shown in Figure 1B when the worker selects work start area 115 in screen 110 shown in Figure 1B and 30 seconds have passed.

In the example shown in FIG. 1C, the screen 120 includes a content area 111, a text area 112, a time area 113, an area 114, a work transition area 116, a redo area 117, and a work end area 121 for ending the first work step of the work manual. The work end area 121 is configured to be selectable.

In the example shown in FIG. 1C, 30 seconds have passed since the start of the first work step in the work manual, so the time area 113 displays "00:30," which indicates the remaining work time of 30, which is 60 seconds minus 30 seconds. The time display in the time area 113 may be displayed as a gradual decrease in value in real time, or may be displayed as a decrease in value by a fixed amount each time a fixed amount of time passes. Also, in the example shown in FIG. 1C, a gauge may be automatically extended on the periphery of the time area 113 according to the time elapsed since the start of the first work step in the work manual. This allows the worker to visually determine the time elapsed since the start of the first work step in the work manual not only from the value but also from the length of the gauge.

The worker selects the work end area 121 to finish the work of the first work step in the work manual. In the example shown in FIG. 1C, the work end area 121 is displayed in a selectable state in place of the work start area 115 in response to the selection of the work start area 115.

Figure 1D shows an example of a screen 130 displayed on the device. Screen 130 is an example of a screen transitioned to from screen 120 shown in Figure 1C when the worker selects work end area 121 40 seconds after the screen 120 shown in Figure 1C appears.

In the example shown in FIG. 1D, the screen 130 includes a content area 111, a text area 112, a time area 113, an area 114, a retry area 117, a completed area 131 indicating that the completion of the work of the first work step in the work manual has been successfully accepted, an evidence input area 132 for inputting evidence indicating that the work of the first work step in the work manual has been performed, and a warning area 133 for displaying a warning indicating that the time elapsed since the start of the work of the first work step in the work manual has exceeded the standard work time for the first work step in the work manual. The evidence input area 132 is configured to be selectable.

In the example shown in FIG. 1D, the evidence input area 132 requests the input of a photo as evidence showing that the work of the first work step in the work manual has been performed. Thus, in the example shown in FIG. 1D, when the evidence input area 132 is selected by the worker, the camera of the device may be activated. This makes it possible to input a photo taken using the activated camera of the device as evidence showing that the work of the first work step in the work manual has been performed. From the viewpoint of preventing fraud, it is preferable that the camera of the device is activated when the evidence input area 132 is selected by the worker. This is because it is possible to avoid inputting a photo taken in advance even though the work of the first work step in the work manual has not been performed. However, the present invention is not limited to this. When the evidence input area 132 is selected by the worker, the photo library of the device is activated, and at least one photo is selected by the worker from the photo library of the device, so that it is possible to input the selected at least one photo as evidence after taking measures against fraud. An example of a fraud prevention measure is, but is not limited to, allowing the input of at least one selected photo when the device determines whether the shooting time associated with at least one selected photo is after the end time of the work of the first work step in the work manual, and determines that the shooting time associated with at least one selected photo is after the end time of the work of the first work step in the work manual. Also, in the example shown in FIG. 1D, an example in which a photo is required to be input as evidence is described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the evidence input area 132 may require the input of a sound (e.g., a normal motor sound indicating that the work of the first work step in the work manual has been performed) or a video as evidence indicating that the work of the first work step in the work manual has been performed.

In the example shown in FIG. 1D, the evidence input area 132 is displayed on the screen 130 in place of the work transition area 116. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, on the screen 130, the evidence input area 132 may be displayed in addition to (e.g., in parallel with) the work transition area 116, which remains unselectable.

In the example shown in FIG. 1D, the warning area 133 displays "+00:10," indicating that the elapsed time from the start of the first work step in the work manual exceeds the standard work time for the first work step in the work manual by 10 seconds.

1D, an example in which the warning area 133 is displayed below the time area 113 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the warning area 133 may be displayed beyond the frame of the time area 113, or the time area 113 may function as the warning area 133 by displaying the excess time in the time area 113.

In the example shown in FIG. 1D, a warning indicating that the time elapsed from the start of the first work step in the work manual exceeds the standard work time for the first work step in the work manual is issued by displaying the warning area 133, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a warning indicating that the time elapsed from the start of the first work step in the work manual exceeds the standard work time for the first work step in the work manual may be issued by issuing a warning sound, by flashing all or part of the screen 130, or by vibrating the device.

Figure 1E shows an example of a screen 140 displayed on the device. Screen 140 is an example of a screen transitioned to from screen 130 shown in Figure 1D when evidence is entered after the worker selects evidence input area 132 of screen 130 shown in Figure 1D.

The example shown in FIG. 1E includes a content area 111, a text area 112, a time area 113, an area 114, a task transition area 116, a redo area 117, a completed area 131, and a warning area 133. In the example shown in FIG. 1E, the task transition area 116 is selectable. The worker selects the task transition area 116 to transition to the task step following the first task step in the task manual. This records the man-hours for the first task step in the task manual (i.e., the actual task time, the difference between the actual task time and the reference task time, etc.).

The worker completes all of the work steps in the work manual "Generator Maintenance and Inspection Method" by repeatedly performing the operations described with reference to screen 110 in FIG. 1B to screen 140 in FIG. 1E, even for work steps following the first work step in the work manual. In this way, by having the worker perform one or more work steps in the work manual, the actual work time is recorded at the same time as the work is performed, so there is no need to check the work content again after the work is completed, and it is possible to accurately record the start and end times of the work. In addition, because evidence is entered showing that the work in the work steps in the work manual has been performed, there is a high probability that the work will be completed, and it is also easy to detect cutting corners or cheating in the work.

In the examples shown in Figures 1B to 1E, the remaining work time (i.e., (reference work time) - (time elapsed from the start of work in a work step)) is displayed like a timer in the time area 113, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the time area 113 may display the time elapsed from the start of work in a work step like a stopwatch.

Figure 1F shows an example of a screen 150 displayed on the device. Screen 150 is an example of a screen showing the results of work performed in accordance with the work manual "Generator Maintenance and Inspection Method."

When all the work steps of the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators" are completed, the device can create a report of the work performed in accordance with the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators" based on the actual work time of at least one of the one or more work steps of the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators" as shown in screen 150 of FIG. 1F. Screen 150 can be displayed, for example, by the operator selecting a report creation button (not shown) for creating a work report. Alternatively, screen 150 can be automatically displayed in response to the selection of the work transition area 116 corresponding to the last work step of the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators".

Screen 150 displays an example of a report on work performed in accordance with the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators." In the example shown in FIG. 1F, screen 150 displays the title of the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators," the worker's name, the work start date and time, the work completion date and time, the total work time, images as evidence, and a breakdown of at least one of the one or more work steps (i.e., information showing the order of the work steps, information outlining the work steps, actual work time, standard work time, etc.) in report format as the results of work performed by the worker in accordance with the work manual "Maintenance and Inspection Method for Generators." In this way, a worker can easily create a work report that accurately reflects the content of the work performed simply by performing the work in accordance with the work manual.

A report of the work performed in accordance with the work manual may be generated by the device (particularly, a processor unit of the device) based on the actual work time for each of at least one of the one or more work steps in the work manual, or may be generated by a server (particularly, a processor unit of the server) that aggregates the work results from the device.

2. Analysis of the results of work performed according to the work manual Figures 2A and 2B show examples of graphs displayed on a display connected to a server. The graph shown in Figure 2A has the work steps in the work manual on the horizontal axis and the actual work time (seconds) on the vertical axis. The graph shown in Figure 2B is a different display format of the graph shown in Figure 2A by taking the standard work time on the vertical axis instead of the actual work time (seconds), and shows the relative values of the actual work time and average work time of the worker to the standard work time.

The results of work performed by multiple workers according to a work manual are aggregated from the workers' devices to a server. This makes it possible to compare the work results between multiple workers. In addition, since the results of work performed by multiple workers according to a work manual include the actual work time and the standard work time for at least one of one or more work steps in the work manual, it is possible to compare the actual work times between multiple workers, compare the actual work time of a specific worker with the standard work time, and compare the average work time, which is the average value of the actual work times of multiple workers, with the standard work time, for each work step. Note that the results of work performed according to the work manual may include the actual work time and the standard work time for each work step of one or more work steps in the work manual.

The server can analyze the results of work performed by multiple workers according to the work manual. For example, the server compares the standard work time of a work step with the actual work time or average work time of the work step, determines whether the absolute value of the difference between the standard work time of a work step and the actual work time or average work time of the work step is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and if it is determined that the absolute value of the difference between the standard work time of a work step and the actual work time or average work time of the work step is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the server can identify the work step as a work step that may need to be improved and/or identify the standard work time of the work step as a standard work time that may need to be improved. The server also compares the standard work time for the work step with the actual work time for the work step, and determines whether or not (actual work time for the work step) > (standard work time for the work step) is satisfied, and whether or not the absolute value of the difference between the standard work time for the work step and the actual work time for the work step is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. If it is determined that (actual work time for the work step) > (standard work time for the work step) is satisfied, and the absolute value of the difference between the standard work time for the work step and the actual work time for the work step is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, the server can identify the work step as a work step that the worker may need to improve personally, and associate it with the worker.

In this way, by collecting and analyzing the results of work performed by multiple workers according to the work manual on a server, it is possible to more clearly identify areas for improvement in the work manual, areas for improvement in the standards, and areas for improvement for individual workers, on a work step-by-step basis.

3. Configuration of a System for Assisting a Worker in His/Her Work Fig. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a system 300 for assisting a worker in his/her work.

3, the system 300 includes a server 310 and devices 320 ₁ to 320 _N for supporting the work of a worker. The server 310 is configured to be able to communicate with each of the devices 320 ₁ to 320 _N via the Internet 330. The devices 320 ₁ to 320 _N can be operated by a worker, where N is an integer equal to or greater than 1.

The server 310 is an information processing system that executes processes for a management company that manages the work manuals that workers view when performing work. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the server 310 includes an interface unit 311, a processor unit 312 including one or more central processing units (CPUs), and a memory unit 313. The hardware configuration of the server 310 is not particularly limited as long as it can realize its functions, and may be configured as a single machine or a combination of multiple machines.

The interface unit 311 controls communication with each of the devices 320 ₁ to 320 _N.

The memory unit 313 stores programs required to execute processing and data required to execute the programs. There is no restriction on how the programs are stored in the memory unit 313. For example, the programs may be pre-installed in the memory unit 313. Alternatively, the programs may be installed in the memory unit 313 by being downloaded via a network such as the Internet 330, or may be installed in the memory unit 313 via a storage medium such as an optical disk or USB.

The processor unit 312 controls the overall operation of the server 310. The processor unit 312 reads out a program stored in the memory unit 313 and executes the program. This allows the server 310 to function as a device that executes desired steps, and the processor unit 312 of the server 310 can operate as a means for achieving a desired function.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the server 310 is connected to a database section 340. The database section 340 includes a worker database section 341, a work manual database section 342, and a work result database section 343.

The device 320 ₁ is configured to be able to communicate with the server 210 via the Internet 330. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the device 320 ₁ includes an interface unit 321, a processor unit 322, a memory unit 323, a display unit 324, and an input unit 325 for receiving input (e.g., sound, input by selection (e.g., tap, click), etc.). The device 320 ₁ may further include, for example, an output unit (not shown) for outputting output (e.g., sound, etc.), a camera (not shown), etc. The device 320 ₁ may be a mobile wireless terminal such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, etc., or a personal computer such as a laptop PC, a notebook PC, etc. The configurations of the interface unit 321, the processor unit 322, and the memory unit 323 of the device 320 ₁ are similar to those of the interface unit 311, the memory unit 313, and the processor unit 312 of the server 310, so detailed description thereof will be omitted here. The memory unit 323 may store information in the operation manual database unit 342 described later. The same is true for the devices 320 ₂ to 320 _N.

3, each of the devices 320 ₁ to 320 _N is described as being capable of communicating with the server 310 via the Internet 330, but the present invention is not limited to this. Any type of network may be used instead of the Internet 330.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, the database unit 340 is provided outside the computer system 310, but the present invention is not limited to this. The database unit 340 can also be provided inside the computer system 310. The configuration of the database unit 340 is not limited to a specific hardware configuration. For example, the database unit 340 may be configured as a single hardware component, or may be configured as multiple hardware components. For example, the database unit 340 may be configured as a single external hard disk device of the computer system 310, or may be configured as cloud storage connected via a network. Furthermore, the configuration of each database unit included in the database unit 340 is also not limited to a specific hardware configuration. For example, each database unit included in the database unit 340 may also be configured as a single hardware component, or may be configured as multiple hardware components.

Figure 4A shows an example of the configuration of information stored in the worker database section 341.

The worker database unit 341 stores information about workers. The information about the worker can be identified by information for identifying the worker (worker ID). The information about the worker includes, for example, the worker's name, gender, date of birth, telephone number, email address, etc.

Figure 4B shows an example of the configuration of information stored in the work manual database section 342.

The work manual database unit 342 stores information about the work manual. The information about the work manual can be identified by information for identifying the work manual (work manual ID). The information about the work manual includes information about one or more work steps in the work manual. The information about one or more work steps in the work manual can be identified for each work step by information for identifying the work step (work step ID). The information about each work step includes information indicating the display order of the work steps, information indicating partial content corresponding to the work step, information explaining an overview of the work of the work step, information explaining the content of the work of the work step, a standard work time, information indicating whether evidence needs to be obtained, and the like.

The information stored in the work manual database section 342 may also be stored in the memory section 323 of the device 320 _1. This allows the device 320 ₁ to locally access information related to the work manual without connecting to the Internet 330. Alternatively, the device 320 ₁ may access information related to the selected work manual in the work manual database section 342 via the server 310 in response to receiving an input indicating the selection of the work manual as described with reference to FIG. 1A. Alternatively, the device 320 ₁ may access information related to the selected work manual by requesting information related to the selected work manual from the server 310 in response to receiving an input indicating the selection of the work manual as described with reference to FIG. 1A and receiving information related to the selected work manual from the server 310.

Figure 4C shows an example of the configuration of information stored in the work result database unit 343.

The work result database unit 343 stores information on the results of work performed according to the work manual. The information on the work results can be identified by information for identifying the work manual (work manual ID). The information on the work results includes information on the worker who performed the work according to the work manual identified by the work manual ID. The information on the worker who performed the work according to the work manual identified by the work manual ID is associated with information for identifying the worker who performed the work according to the work manual identified by the work manual ID (worker ID). The information on the worker who performed the work according to the work manual identified by the work manual ID includes the worker's work start date and time, work end date and time, total work time, status (i.e., completed or incomplete), comments from the worker, information on the work steps performed according to the work manual identified by the work manual ID, and the like. The information on the work steps performed according to the work manual identified by the work manual ID is associated with information for identifying the work steps performed according to the work manual identified by the work manual ID (work step ID). Information about a work step performed in accordance with a work manual identified by a work manual ID includes the actual work time of the work step performed by a worker identified by a worker ID, the standard work time of the work step, and evidence showing that the worker identified by a worker ID performed the work of the work step.

4. Processing Executed in the Apparatus Fig. 5 shows an example of processing executed in the apparatus 320 _1. Each step shown in Fig. 5 is executed, for example, by the processor unit 322 of the apparatus 320 _1. Each step shown in Fig. 5 will be described below.

Step S501: A work manual is identified. This process is accomplished by the processor unit 322 of the device _320-1 receiving, for example, an input for selecting the work manual. This process may correspond to an operation on the image 100 shown in FIG. 1A.

Step S502: A worker who will perform the work of one or more work steps in the work manual is identified. This process is achieved by receiving information about the worker (e.g., login information and/or biometric information of the worker). The information about the worker is input via the input unit 325 of the device _320-1 . The login information of the worker is, for example, a worker ID and a password for identifying the worker, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The biometric information of the worker is, for example, but not limited to, the worker's fingerprint, face, veins, etc.

Step S503: The result of the work performed by the worker identified in step S502 according to the work manual is obtained. This process is achieved by the processor unit 322 of the device _320-1 receiving, for each of at least one work step among one or more work steps in the work manual, a first input indicating the start of the work of the work step and a second input indicating the end of the work of the work step (as well as evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed). This process may correspond to an operation on the image 110 shown in FIG. 1B, an operation on the image 120 shown in FIG. 1C, an operation on the image 130 shown in FIG. 1D, and an operation on the image 140 shown in FIG. 1E.

Step S504: The results of the work acquired in step S503 are sent to server 310. As a result, the results of the work performed by the worker identified in step S502 in accordance with the work manual are aggregated in server 310.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 5, an example in which step S502 is performed after step S501 has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. Step S502 may be performed before step S501 (i.e., for example, the worker may select the work manual while logged in). Step S502 may also be omitted. This makes it possible for the worker to perform one or more work steps according to the work manual in an anonymous state without identifying the worker (for example, on a trial basis).

Fig. 6 shows an example of the process of step S504 in Fig. 5. Each step shown in Fig. 6 is executed by, for example, the processor unit 322 of the device _320-1 . Note that each step shown in Fig. 6 is executed for at least one work step out of one or more work steps in the work manual, but for convenience, one of the at least one work step out of one or more work steps in the work manual (hereinafter, in the description referring to Fig. 6, simply referred to as a "work step") will be described. Each step shown in Fig. 6 will be described below.

Step S601: Partial content corresponding to a work step is played. When partial content corresponding to the first work step of a work manual is played, this process may be executed automatically in response to receiving an input to select the work manual, or in response to a button for playing the partial content being selected. When partial content corresponding to a work step other than the first work step of a work manual is played, this process may be executed in response to a work transition area (e.g., work transition area 116) being selected for transitioning to the next work step. Note that the partial content corresponding to a work step is part of the content included in the work manual.

The partial content corresponding to a work step is configured not to be played back in fast forward. This makes it possible to prevent the worker from missing out on watching the partial content. The partial content corresponding to a work step may be played back, for example, once in accordance with a standard work time, or may be played back repeatedly in a loop until a second input is received indicating that the work step is to be completed.

Step S602: It is determined whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content corresponding to the work step was played. If the determination result is "Yes", the process proceeds to step S603, and if the determination result is "No", the process returns to step S602, and the first input indicating the start of work for the work step cannot be input.

The specified time from the time when the partial content corresponding to the work step is played back can be the time when information outlining the work of the work step is read out. By preventing the work from starting until the information outlining the work of the work step is read out, it is possible to prevent the worker from starting the work of the work step without understanding the overview of the work of the work step.

Step S603: A first input indicating the start of work on the work step is made inputtable. This allows the worker to start work on the work step at any time. This process includes, for example, but is not limited to, making the work start area 115 on the image 110 shown in FIG. 1B selectable.

Step S604: A first input indicating the start of work on a work step is received. This identifies the start date and time of work on the work step. This process may correspond to, for example, the selection of the work start area 115 on the image 110 shown in FIG. 1B.

Step S605: The elapsed time from the start of the work step is measured.

Step S606: It is determined whether the time elapsed since the start of the work step exceeds the standard work time associated with the work step. If the determination result is "Yes", the process proceeds to step S607, and if the determination result is "No", the process proceeds to step S608.

Step S607: A warning is issued to indicate that the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step has exceeded the reference work time associated with the work step. This warning may be issued by displaying a warning area 133 as shown on the screen 130 of Fig. 1D on the display unit 324 of the device _320-1 , by emitting a warning sound from the output unit of the device _320-1 , by flashing the whole or part of the display unit 324 of the device _320-1 , or by vibrating the device _320-1 .

Step S608: A second input indicating completion of the work step is received. This identifies the end date and time of the work step. This process may correspond to, for example, the selection of the work completion area 121 on the image 120 shown in FIG. 1C.

Step S609: The time related to the actual work time of the work step is displayed. This process is achieved, for example, by displaying the time area 113 on the screen 130 of FIG. 1D. The actual work time of the work step is the elapsed time measured from the receipt of a first input indicating the start of work on the work step to the receipt of a second input indicating the end of work on the work step. Therefore, as the time related to the actual work time of the work step, for example, the remaining work time of the work step (i.e., (reference work time of the work step) - (actual work time of the work step)) may be displayed, or the actual work time of the work step itself may be displayed.

Step S610: It is determined whether or not it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed. This process is executed by referring to information indicating whether or not evidence acquisition is necessary, which is stored in the work manual database unit 342 or in the memory unit 323 of the device _320-1 . If the determination result is "Yes", the process proceeds to step S611, and if the determination result is "No", the process proceeds to step S613.

Step S611: It is made possible to input evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed. This requests the worker to input evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed. This process includes, for example, but is not limited to, making the evidence input area 132 on the image 130 shown in FIG. 1D selectable. The evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed may be any type as long as it allows the worker to recognize that the work of the work step has been performed. The evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed may be, for example, a still image (e.g., a photograph), a video, or sound.

Step S612: Evidence is received indicating that the work of the work step has been performed. The start date and time of the work of the work step in step S604, the end date and time of the work of the work step in step S608, the actual work time of the work step, and the evidence of the work step in step S612 are recorded in association with the work step and transmitted to server 310.

Step S613: A third input is received to proceed to the next work step. This process may correspond to the work transition area 116 on the screen 140 of FIG. 1E being selected. This causes the process to proceed to step S601 for the next work step. This is repeated for the next work step and thereafter.

Note that each step shown in FIG. 6 may be performed for each of one or more work steps in the work manual.

Also, step S602 in Fig. 6 may be omitted. That is, the processor unit 322 of the device _320-1 may enable input of a first input indicating starting work of the work step while the partial content corresponding to the work step is being reproduced. Also, steps S606 and S607 in Fig. 6 may be omitted.

5. Processing Executed in the Server Fig. 7 shows an example of processing executed in the server 310. Each step shown in Fig. 7 is executed, for example, by the processor unit 312 of the server 310. Each step shown in Fig. 7 will be described below.

Step S701: Results of work performed by a plurality of workers, including the workers described with reference to Figures 5 and 6, according to the work manual are received. The results of work performed by a plurality of workers according to the work manual are received from a plurality of devices, including device _320-1 . As a result, the results of work performed by a plurality of workers according to the work manual are aggregated in server 310. This process may correspond to step 504 in Figure 5.

The results of work performed by multiple workers according to a work manual may include, for each work step, the start date and time, end date and time, actual work time, and evidence of the work in the work manual performed by each worker.

In addition, the server 310 can calculate the average work time of multiple workers on a work step basis based on the results of work performed by multiple workers according to a work manual.

Step S702: The results of the work performed by multiple workers according to the work manual are analyzed.

As an example of analyzing the results of work performed by multiple workers according to a work manual, the server 310 may compare the standard work time of a work step with the actual work time or average work time of the work step, determine whether the absolute value of the difference between the standard work time of a work step and the actual work time or average work time of the work step is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and, if it is determined that the absolute value of the difference between the standard work time of a work step and the actual work time or average work time of the work step is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold, identify the work step as a work step that may need to be improved and/or identify the standard work time of the work step as a standard work time that may need to be improved.

As an example of analyzing the results of work performed by multiple workers according to a work manual, the server 310 can compare the standard work time of a work step with the actual work time of the work step, determine whether or not (actual work time of a work step) > (standard work time of a work step) is satisfied and whether the absolute value of the difference between the standard work time of a work step and the actual work time of the work step is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold, and, if it is determined that (actual work time of a work step) > (standard work time of a work step) is satisfied and the absolute value of the difference between the standard work time of a work step and the actual work time of the work step is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold, identify the work step in association with the worker as a work step that the worker may need to improve personally.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 5 to 7, an example has been described in which the processing of each step shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 is realized by the processor executing a program stored in the memory, but the present invention is not limited to this. At least some of the processing of each step shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 may be realized by a hardware configuration such as a control circuit.

As described above, the present invention has been illustrated using a preferred embodiment of the present invention, but the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to this embodiment. It is understood that the scope of the present invention should be interpreted only by the claims. It is understood that a person skilled in the art can implement an equivalent scope based on the description of the specific preferred embodiment of the present invention and common technical knowledge from the description of the present invention.

The present invention is useful for providing programs, devices, systems, etc. to assist workers in their work.

300 System 310 Server 320 ₁ to 320 _N device 330 Internet 340 Database unit

Claims (28)

A program for assisting a worker in a task, the program being executed in an apparatus,
The device includes a processor that controls an operation of the device;
The program is
Identifying a work manual, the work manual including one or more work steps and content;
For each of at least one of the one or more work steps,
playing a partial content corresponding to the work step, the partial content being a part of the content; and
receiving a first input indicating initiation of operation of the work step;
Measuring the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step;
receiving a second input indicating completion of the work step;
displaying a time related to an actual work time of the work step, the actual work time of the work step being an elapsed time measured from receipt of the first input to receipt of the second input;
determining whether it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed;
When it is determined that it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed, it is possible to input evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed;
and receiving evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed. The program, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps,
determining whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step exceeds a reference work time associated with the work step;
2. The program according to claim 1, further causing the processor to execute the following: when it is determined that the elapsed time from the start of work on the work step has exceeded the standard work time, execute a warning indicating that the elapsed time from the start of work on the work step has exceeded the standard work time. The program, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps,
determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back, the predetermined time being a time during which information explaining an overview of the work of the work step is read out;
and enabling the first input to be input when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back. The device is configured to communicate with a server;
The program is
Identifying a worker who will perform the at least one work step among the one or more work steps;
and transmitting to the server the actual work time of each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps performed by the worker. The program is
The program according to claim 1 , further causing the processor to create a report of work performed in accordance with the work manual based on the actual work time of each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps. A program for assisting a worker in a task, the program being executed in an apparatus,
The device includes a processor that controls an operation of the device;
The program is
Identifying a work manual, the work manual including one or more work steps and content;
For each of at least one of the one or more work steps,
playing a partial content corresponding to the work step, the partial content being a part of the content; and
determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back, the predetermined time being a time during which information explaining an overview of the work of the work step is read out;
When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was reproduced, a first input indicating that a task of the task step is to be started is made to be input;
Receiving the first input;
Measuring the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step;
receiving a second input indicating completion of the work step;
and displaying a time related to an actual work time of the work step, the actual work time of the work step being the elapsed time measured from receipt of the first input to receipt of the second input. The program, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps,
determining whether it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed;
When it is determined that it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed, it is possible to input evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed;
and receiving evidence indicating that the work of the work step has been performed. The program, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps,
determining whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step exceeds a reference work time associated with the work step;
7. The program according to claim 6, further causing the processor to execute the following: when it is determined that the elapsed time from the start of work on the work step has exceeded the standard work time, execute a warning indicating that the elapsed time from the start of work on the work step has exceeded the standard work time. The device is configured to communicate with a server;
The program is
Identifying a worker who will perform the at least one work step among the one or more work steps;
and transmitting to the server the actual work time of each of the at least one work steps among the one or more work steps performed by the worker. The program is
The program according to claim 6, further causing the processor to create a report of work performed in accordance with the work manual based on the actual work time of each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps. An apparatus for assisting a worker in a task, the apparatus comprising: a processor unit for controlling an operation of the apparatus;
The processor unit includes:
Identifying a work manual, the work manual including one or more work steps and content;
For each of at least one of the one or more work steps,
playing a partial content corresponding to the work step, the partial content being a part of the content; and
receiving a first input indicating initiation of operation of the work step;
Measuring the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step;
receiving a second input indicating completion of the work step;
displaying a time related to an actual work time of the work step, the actual work time of the work step being an elapsed time measured from receipt of the first input to receipt of the second input;
determining whether it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed;
When it is determined that it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed, it is possible to input evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed;
and receiving evidence indicating that the work step has been performed. An apparatus for assisting a worker in a task, the apparatus comprising: a processor unit for controlling an operation of the apparatus;
The processor unit includes:
Identifying a work manual, the work manual including one or more work steps and content;
For each of at least one of the one or more work steps,
playing a partial content corresponding to the work step, the partial content being a part of the content; and
determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back, the predetermined time being a time during which information explaining an overview of the work of the work step is read out;
When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was reproduced, a first input indicating that a task of the task step is to be started is made to be input;
Receiving the first input;
Measuring the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step;
receiving a second input indicating completion of the work step;
and displaying a time related to an actual work time of the work step, the actual work time of the work step being an elapsed time measured from receipt of the first input to receipt of the second input. A system for assisting a worker in performing a task, the system comprising:
A server;
an apparatus configured to be in communication with the server, the apparatus comprising a processor unit for controlling operation of the apparatus;
The processor unit includes:
Identifying a work manual, the work manual including one or more work steps and content;
For each of at least one of the one or more work steps,
playing a partial content corresponding to the work step, the partial content being a part of the content; and
receiving a first input indicating initiation of operation of the work step;
Measuring the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step;
receiving a second input indicating completion of the work step;
displaying a time related to an actual work time of the work step, the actual work time of the work step being an elapsed time measured from receipt of the first input to receipt of the second input;
determining whether it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed;
When it is determined that it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed, it is possible to input evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed;
receiving evidence that work for the work step has been performed;
and transmitting the actual work time of each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps to the server as a result of work performed in accordance with the work manual. The processor unit, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps,
determining whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step exceeds a reference work time associated with the work step;
14. The system according to claim 13, further configured to: when it is determined that the elapsed time from the start of work on the work step has exceeded the standard work time, execute a warning indicating that the elapsed time from the start of work on the work step has exceeded the standard work time. The processor unit, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps,
determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back, the predetermined time being a time during which information explaining an overview of the work of the work step is read out;
and enabling the first input to be input when it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played. The processor unit includes:
The system is further configured to: identify a worker who will perform the work of the at least one work step in the work manual;
14. The system of claim 13, wherein transmitting the actual work time of each of the at least one work step of the one or more work steps to the server as a result of work performed in accordance with the work manual includes transmitting the actual work time of each of the at least one work step of the one or more work steps to the server as a result of work performed by the worker in accordance with the work manual. The server,
receiving results of work performed by a plurality of workers including the worker according to the work manual from a plurality of machines including the machine;
and analyzing results of operations performed by the plurality of workers according to the operation manual. The system of claim 17, wherein analyzing the results of the work performed by the multiple workers according to the work manual includes identifying a standard work time that may be improved among standard work times corresponding to the at least one work step in the work manual. The system of claim 17, wherein analyzing the results of the work performed by the multiple workers according to the work manual includes identifying a work step of the at least one work step in the work manual that may be improved. The server,
14. The system of claim 13, further configured to: generate a report of work performed in accordance with the work manual based on the actual work time of each of the at least one work step of the one or more work steps. A system for assisting a worker in performing a task, the system comprising:
A server;
an apparatus configured to be in communication with the server, the apparatus comprising a processor unit for controlling operation of the apparatus;
The processor unit includes:
Identifying a work manual, the work manual including one or more work steps and content;
For each of at least one of the one or more work steps,
playing a partial content corresponding to the work step, the partial content being a part of the content; and
determining whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back, the predetermined time being a time during which information explaining an overview of the work of the work step is read out;
When it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed since the partial content was played back, a first input indicating that a task of the task step is to be started is input; and receiving the first input.
Measuring the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step;
receiving a second input indicating completion of the work step;
displaying a time related to an actual work time of the work step, the actual work time of the work step being an elapsed time measured from receipt of the first input to receipt of the second input;
and transmitting the actual work time of each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps to the server as a result of work performed in accordance with the work manual. The processor unit, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps,
determining whether it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed;
When it is determined that it is necessary to obtain evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed, it is possible to input evidence showing that the work of the work step has been performed;
and receiving evidence indicating that the work step has been performed. The processor unit, for each of the at least one work step among the one or more work steps,
determining whether or not the elapsed time from the start of the work of the work step exceeds a reference work time associated with the work step;
22. The system according to claim 21, further configured to: when it is determined that the elapsed time from the start of work on the work step has exceeded the standard work time, execute a warning indicating that the elapsed time from the start of work on the work step has exceeded the standard work time. The processor unit includes:
The system is further configured to: identify a worker who will perform the work of the at least one work step in the work manual;
22. The system of claim 21, wherein transmitting the actual work time of each of the at least one work step of the one or more work steps to the server as a result of work performed in accordance with the work manual includes transmitting the actual work time of each of the at least one work step of the one or more work steps to the server as a result of work performed by the worker in accordance with the work manual. The server,
receiving results of work performed by a plurality of workers including the worker according to the work manual from a plurality of machines including the machine;
and analyzing results of operations performed by the plurality of workers according to the operation manual. 26. The system of claim 25, wherein analyzing results of the work performed by the plurality of workers in accordance with the work manual includes identifying a standard work time that may be improved among standard work times corresponding to the at least one work step in the work manual. 26. The system of claim 25, wherein analyzing results of the work performed by the plurality of workers according to the work manual includes identifying a work step among the at least one work step in the work manual that may be improved . The server,
22. The system of claim 21, further configured to: generate a report of work performed in accordance with the work manual based on the actual work time of each of the at least one work step of the one or more work steps.