JP2012234420A - Position determination device, control method of position determination device, and control program of position determination device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a position determination device which can determine ideal working positions of a plurality of people.SOLUTION: A position determination device comprises a collection unit 403 for collecting utilization states of communication tools such as telephones, e-mails, conference schedule management, and task management. On the basis of the utilization states collected by the collection unit 403, the plurality of people utilizing the communication tools are grouped. An optimal arrangement calculation unit 407 determines working positions of the plurality of people according to the grouping.

Description

  The present invention relates to a position determining device, a position determining device control method, and a position determining device control program, and more specifically, a position determining device that determines work positions of a plurality of persons according to grouping, and a position determining device. The present invention relates to a control method and a control program for a position determination device.

  Improve business efficiency by optimizing the placement of individual seats in offices and other locations, and optimizing the placement of image forming devices such as MFPs (Multi Function Peripherals), copiers, facsimile machines, and printers Things have been done.

  For example, Patent Document 1 below discloses an information processing apparatus that proposes an optimal arrangement of a printer device, a copying device, and a scanner device on a network. The information processing apparatus acquires the performance of the printing device and the total number of actual prints, and compares it with a predetermined threshold preset in the printing device. As a result, the degree of use of the printing device is determined, and an optimal arrangement is proposed based on the determination.

  The following Patent Document 2 discloses an optimum arrangement analysis apparatus capable of constructing an environment in which a multifunction machine can be effectively operated by analyzing an optimum arrangement place in consideration of the operation frequency of each function of the multifunction machine. It is disclosed. The optimum arrangement position of the multifunction device is calculated and displayed from the usage status of each function of the multifunction device and the position information of the user.

JP 2009-169664 A JP 2004-289642 A

  The above-described conventional technique is for determining an optimal arrangement of a multifunction peripheral or the like in an environment such as an office, and has the following problems.

  (1) It is difficult to make a determination by quantitatively measuring each person's seat position (an example of a work position) in the office, and it is not possible to determine an efficient seat position.

  (2) When the image forming apparatus is moved by an output environment optimization service (OPS: Optimized Print Services) or an optimum arrangement service (MPS: Managed Print Services) of a multifunction peripheral, Securement and movement labor are necessary. For this reason, it is difficult to frequently review the optimal arrangement of the image forming apparatuses, and a certain period is required for review.

  (3) Although it is necessary to judge whether the current seat position of each person is efficient and to convey the result (assessment), there is no technology for performing such an assessment.

  The objective of this invention is providing the position determination apparatus which can determine the preferable working position of several persons, the control method of a position determination apparatus, and the control program of a position determination apparatus.

  In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the present invention, a position determining device includes a collecting unit that collects a usage status of a communication tool, and a plurality of communication tools that are used based on the usage status collected by the collecting unit. Grouping means for dividing persons into groups, and position determining means for determining work positions of a plurality of persons according to grouping by the grouping means.

  Preferably, an image forming apparatus is installed in the room including the work position, and the position determining apparatus further includes an acquiring unit that acquires a use history of the image forming apparatus in the group, and the position determining unit is acquired by the acquiring unit. Based on the recorded usage history, a work position of a certain group grouped by the grouping means is determined.

  Preferably, the position determining means determines the work position of each person constituting the group based on the use history of the image forming apparatus in each person constituting the certain group grouped by the grouping means.

  Preferably, the position determining unit allocates the work position from a place close to the image forming apparatus in order from the group in which the image forming apparatus is frequently used.

  Preferably, the position determining unit allocates the work position from a place close to the image forming apparatus in order from a person who uses the image forming apparatus in a high frequency.

  Preferably, the collecting means collects the usage status of the plurality of types of communication tools, and the grouping means weights each of the multiple types of communication tools, and determines the communication tools based on the usage status of the multiple types of communication tools. Divide multiple people to use into groups.

  Preferably, the communication tool includes at least one of telephone, e-mail, meeting schedule management, and task management.

  Preferably, the collecting unit collects at least the usage status of the e-mail, and the grouping unit performs grouping based on a destination of the e-mail transmitted by the first person among the plurality of persons.

  Preferably, when the number of times that the second person of the plurality of persons is included in the e-mail transmitted by the first person of the plurality of persons exceeds the reference value In addition, the first person and the second person are in the same group.

  Preferably, when the number of times that the second person of the plurality of persons is included in the e-mail received by the first person of the plurality of persons exceeds the reference value In addition, the first person and the second person are in the same group.

  Preferably, the grouping means sets persons whose communication count exceeds a reference value as the same group.

  Preferably, the position determining device further includes display means for displaying the work position determined by the position determining means.

  Preferably, the position determination device further includes a calculation unit that compares an actual work position of a plurality of persons with a work position determined by the position determination unit and calculates a degree of coincidence.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, a control method for a position determination device includes a collection step for collecting communication tool usage status, and a group of a plurality of persons using the communication tool based on the usage status collected in the collection step. And a position determining step for determining work positions of a plurality of persons according to the grouping by the grouping step.

  According to still another aspect of the present invention, a control program for a position determination device includes a collection step for collecting a communication tool use state, and a plurality of persons using the communication tool based on the use state collected by the collection step. The computer is caused to execute a grouping step for dividing the plurality of persons into groups and a position determining step for determining work positions of a plurality of persons according to the grouping by the grouping step.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, the position determination apparatus which can determine the preferable working position of a some person, the control method of a position determination apparatus, and the control program of a position determination apparatus can be provided.

It is a figure showing roughly the composition of the seat position management system in one of the embodiments of the invention. 1 is a perspective view showing an MFP 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of MFP 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a server 100. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of a PC 200. FIG. 5 is a front view of a seat position display unit 320. FIG. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the display content of the seat position display part. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the room where a seat position management system is applied. It is a flowchart which shows the collection process of the personal sitting position which 100 A of assessment servers perform. It is a flowchart which shows the calculation process of the optimal seating position of the individual which 100 A of assessment servers perform. It is a flowchart which shows the assessment process of the seating position which 100A of assessment servers perform. It is a flowchart which shows the proposal process of the seating position to the occupant which the assessment server 100A performs. It is a figure which shows the content of the weighting table D9 of FIG. It is a figure which shows the calculation process of the relationship degree in step S201 of FIG. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the grouping process performed by step S203 of FIG. It is a figure which shows the specific example of the result of grouping. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a specific example of information stored in an MFP usage history database D10 of FIG. It is a figure which shows the use degree of the individual color MFP calculated in step S205 of FIG. It is a figure which shows the usage-degree of the individual monochrome MFP calculated in step S205 of FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an average output number of personal color MFPs calculated in step S <b> 205 of FIG. 10. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an average output number of personal monochrome MFPs calculated in step S <b> 205 of FIG. 10. It is a figure which shows the table which put together the calculation result of FIGS. It is a top view which shows the specific example in the room which determines a seat position. It is a figure which shows the result of having performed seat arrangement of the 1st group in the room | chamber interior of FIG. It is a figure which shows the process which determines the seat arrangement | positioning in the group of Mr. A, Mr. B, and Mr. E. It is a figure which shows the result of having performed seat arrangement of the 2nd group in the room | chamber interior of FIG. It is a figure which shows the calculation method of the coincidence of each person's seating result recorded by the seating result recording part 405, and the seat position calculated by the calculation part 407 which calculates optimal seat arrangement | positioning.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  The seat position management system according to the embodiment of the present invention has a function of determining a preferred work position of an individual in a room where an image forming apparatus is installed. In such a determination, the individual use status of the image forming apparatus and the communication tool is determined. Also, the degree of matching between the determined work position and the actual work position is calculated, and evaluation (assessment) is performed.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically showing a configuration of a seat position management system according to one embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to the drawing, the seat position management system is a system that performs position management of persons (individuals) seated on seats Z1 to Z6 in a room separated by a wall W. The wall is provided with a door D through which individuals enter and exit. On the wall near the door D, a seat position display unit 320 having a camera for photographing a person entering the room is attached. The seat position display unit 320 is also used to display a preferred seat position for those who enter the room.

  The seat position management system includes a plurality of PCs (personal computers) 200A to 200D, an MFP (an abbreviation for Multi Function Peripheral, which is a specific example of an image forming apparatus) 1, and a camera capable of shooting moving images and still images. Seat position display unit 320, RFID tags 300A to 300D held by users of a plurality of PCs 200A to 200D, RFID antenna 310 that communicates with the RFID tags, assessment server 100A, e-mail / conference schedule / task management Server 100B, a seat recognition unit 401 that identifies the position of the seat where the individual is actually sitting (sitting position), a count unit (usage status collection unit) 403 that counts the usage status of the personal communication tool, The seat where an individual sits in reality Based on the seating result recording unit 405 that records the actual position, the MFP usage history recording unit 413 that acquires and stores the usage history of the MFP 1, the count data of the counting unit 403, and the usage history of the MFP usage history recording unit 413. The degree of coincidence for calculating and displaying the degree of coincidence between the calculation unit 407 for calculating the optimum seat arrangement for the individual and the actual seat position where the individual actually sat and the calculated optimum seat arrangement for the individual A display unit 409 and an optimum arrangement display unit 411 that displays the calculated optimum seat arrangement of the individual are provided.

  In the present embodiment, the assessment server 100A functions as a position determination device that determines a person's work position. That is, the seat recognition unit 401, the count unit 403, the seating record recording unit 405, the MFP usage history recording unit 413, the calculation unit 407, the coincidence degree display unit 409, and the optimum arrangement display unit 411 are provided in the assessment server 100A. However, another server or MFP 1 may function as the position determination device. Moreover, you may make it bear the function of a position determination apparatus with a some apparatus.

  Each of the plurality of PCs 200A to 200D may be a desktop personal computer, a notebook personal computer, or a mobile device such as a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant) or a smartphone instead of a PC. Each user of PC 200A-200D is called Mr. A, Mr. B, Mr. C, and Mr. D. The PCs 200A to 200D can be connected to the LAN 390 wirelessly or can be connected to the LAN 390 by wire.

  The seat recognition unit 401 determines that the user corresponding to the user ID is seated based on the user ID recorded on the PC when the PC is connected to the LAN by wire. Further, by recognizing the face of the user taken by the camera included in the seat position display unit 320, it is specified who the user is. Further, by detecting and tracking radio waves from the RFID tags 300A to 300D possessed by the user with the RFID antenna 310 (which may be provided in a plurality of rooms), the position corresponding to the user corresponding to the RFID tag is determined. Identify whether or not Further, when it is detected that the RFID tag has not moved for a predetermined time (x seconds), it is determined that the user is seated. The seat recognizing unit 401 determines in which position a specific user actually sits (in which position work is performed).

  The counting unit 403 that acquires communication tool count data groups persons with high communication frequency based on usage information of telephone, e-mail, conference schedule management software, and task management software, which are communication tools between individuals. To summarize.

  The optimum layout calculation unit 407 acquires, from the MFP usage history recording unit 413, the MFP usage history for each group of people. Based on the acquired use history, it is determined in which position the group should be arranged, and the work position (seat position) of the group is determined. Further, the optimum arrangement calculation unit 407 obtains the MFP usage history for each individual constituting the group from the MFP usage history recording unit 413, and determines where to place the individual in the group. The work position (seat position) of the individual is determined. The determined work position of the group and the work position within the individual group are displayed on the optimum arrangement display unit 411 (only the determined individual work position may be displayed). Further, the determined individual work position is compared with information in the seat (sitting) result recording unit 405 that is a history of the past actual work position of the individual, and the degree of coincidence is displayed in the coincidence degree display unit 409. Is displayed.

  Hereinafter, one of the PCs 200 </ b> A to 200 </ b> D is referred to as a PC 200. One of the servers 100A and 100B is referred to as the server 100. Although only one MFP 1 is schematically shown in FIG. 1, the actual number of MFPs, the number of PCs, the number of desks, and the like are not limited to the numbers shown in FIG.

  The MFP 1 has a plurality of functions such as a printer function, a facsimile function, a copy function, a scanner function, and a presentation function. The network in FIG. 1 is also connected to the Internet.

  Job data such as document data and image data processed by the PC can be transmitted to the MFP 1 and printed by the MFP 1. Image data created by reading a document with the MFP 1 can be transmitted to a PC and displayed or stored on the PC side. Further, the MFP 1 transmits image data created based on a document to, for example, a remote terminal on another network via the Internet, receives job data from the remote terminal via the Internet, and prints out based on the received data. It is also possible to do.

  The network configuration is not limited to that shown in FIG. 1, and may be a configuration having a proxy server, a mail server, a router, and the like, for example.

  [Configuration of MFP 1]

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the MFP 1.

  Referring to FIG. 1, MFP 1 includes a paper feed cassette 3, a paper discharge tray 5, an operation unit (an example of an operation receiving unit) 11, a control unit 20, a print unit 30, and a scan unit 40. As will be described later, the control unit 20 includes a CPU 21 (shown in FIG. 3) and the like, and controls the operation of the MFP 1. The control unit 20 and the print unit 30 are arranged inside the casing of the MFP 1.

  The MFP 1 has three paper feed cassettes 3 (paper feed cassettes 3a, 3b, 3c). Each paper feed cassette 3 is loaded with, for example, different sizes of paper (B5 size, A4 size, A3 size, etc.). The paper feed cassette 3 is arranged at the bottom of the MFP 1 so that it can be inserted into and removed from the housing of the MFP 1. The paper loaded in each paper feed cassette 3 is fed one by one from the paper feed cassette 3 and sent to the printing unit 30 at the time of printing. Note that the number of paper feed cassettes 3 is not limited to three, and may be more or less.

  The paper discharge tray 5 is disposed above the portion where the printing unit 30 is stored in the casing of the MFP 1 and below the portion where the scanning unit 40 is disposed. A sheet on which an image is formed by the printing unit 30 is discharged from the inside of the housing to the discharge tray 5.

  The operation unit 11 is disposed on the upper front side (front side in the drawing) of the MFP 1. The operation unit 11 includes a plurality of operation buttons 11a that can be pressed by the user. The operation unit 11 is provided with a display panel (an example of display means) 13 that displays information to the user. The display panel 13 is, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) provided with a touch panel. The display panel 13 displays a guidance screen for the user or displays an operation button to accept a touch operation from the user. The display panel 13 performs display under the control of the CPU 21. The operation unit 11 receives an operation input from the user. When the operation button 11a or the display panel 13 is operated by the user, the operation unit 11 transmits an operation signal or a predetermined command corresponding to the operation to the CPU 21. That is, the user can cause the MFP 1 to execute various operations by operating the operation unit 11.

  The printing unit 30 roughly includes a toner image forming unit, a paper transport unit (not shown), and a fixing device (not shown). The print unit 30 forms an image on a sheet by electrophotography.

  The paper transport unit includes a paper feed roller, a transport roller, and a motor that drives them. The paper transport unit feeds paper from the paper feed cassette 3 and transports the paper inside the housing of the MFP 1. The paper transport unit discharges the paper on which the image has been formed from the housing of the MFP 1 to the paper discharge tray 5 or the like.

  The fixing device has a heating roller and a pressure roller. The fixing device conveys the sheet on which the toner image is formed between the heating roller and the pressure roller, and heats and presses the sheet. As a result, the fixing device melts the toner adhering to the paper and fixes it on the paper to form an image on the paper.

  The scan unit 40 is disposed on the upper part of the casing of the MFP 1. The scanning unit 40 includes an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 41. The scanning unit 40 performs the above-described scanner function. The scanning unit 40 scans a document placed on a transparent document table with a contact image sensor and reads it as image data. Further, the scanning unit 40 reads the image data by the contact image sensor while sequentially taking in a plurality of documents set on the document tray by the ADF 41.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the MFP 1.

  Referring to the figure, MFP 1 includes an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 27 and a communication unit 29 in addition to the above-described units.

  The HDD 27 stores print job data sent from the outside via the communication unit 29, image data read by the scan unit 40, and the like. Further, the HDD 27 stores setting information of the MFP 1, a control program 27a for performing various operations of the MFP 1, an authentication database 27b used for a user authentication function to be described later, and the like. The HDD 27 can store a plurality of print jobs transmitted from one PC 200 or a plurality of PCs.

  The communication unit 29 is configured by combining a hardware unit and a software unit that performs communication using a predetermined communication protocol. The communication unit 29 connects the MFP 1 to the network. As a result, the MFP 1 can communicate with an external device such as the PC 200 connected to the network. The MFP 1 can receive a print job from the PC 200 or the server 100. Further, the MFP 1 can transmit the image data read by the scanning unit 40 to the PC 200, or can be transmitted by E-mail via a mail server (not shown).

  The control unit 20 includes a CPU 21, a ROM 23, and a RAM 25. The control unit 20 is connected to the system bus together with the operation unit 11, the printing unit 30, the scanning unit 40, and the like. Thereby, the control unit 20 and each unit of the MFP 1 are connected so as to be able to send and receive signals.

  The CPU 21 controls various operations of the MFP 1 by executing a control program 27 a stored in the ROM 23, RAM 25, HDD 27, or the like. When an operation signal is transmitted from the operation unit 11 or an operation command is transmitted from the PC 200 or the like, the CPU 21 executes a predetermined control program 27a in response thereto. Thus, a predetermined function of MFP 1 is executed in accordance with the operation of operation unit 11 by the user.

  The ROM 23 is, for example, a flash ROM (Flash Memory). The ROM 23 stores data used for operating the MFP 1. Like the HDD 27, the ROM 23 may store various control programs, function setting data of the MFP 1, and the like. The CPU 21 reads data from the ROM 23 and writes data to the ROM 23. The ROM 23 may be non-rewritable.

  The RAM 25 is a main memory of the CPU 21. The RAM 25 is used to store data necessary for the CPU 21 to execute the control program 27a.

  As described above, the scanning unit 40 performs a scanner function and reads image data from a document. The image data read by the scanning unit 40 is converted into an application data format by the CPU 21 and stored in the HDD 27 or the like. The CPU 21 can transmit image data stored in the HDD 27 or the like to the PC 200 or the like.

  Here, the MFP 1 has a post-processing unit 90. The post-processing unit 90 is provided, for example, in the vicinity of a paper discharge outlet to the paper discharge tray 5. The post-processing unit 90 may be an apparatus that is externally attached to the MFP 1 and carries out post-processing by carrying in paper discharged to the paper discharge tray 5. The post-processing unit 90 performs, for example, a punching process for punching holes on a sheet on which an image is formed, a binding process for binding a plurality of sheets with staples, and the like, and discharges them. Whether post-processing is executed by the post-processing unit 90 depends on, for example, the print settings of each print job. In other words, the control unit 20 controls the post-processing unit 90 based on the print settings when executing a print job. Each MFP 1 may or may not have the post-processing unit 90.

  Each MFP 1 has a user authentication function. In the present embodiment, the user authentication function is realized as follows, for example. That is, the authentication database 27b recorded in the HDD 27 of the MFP 1 records user information that can be authenticated by the user and authentication information necessary for the user authentication in association with each other. The authentication information is, for example, a password set for each user. In the authentication database 27b, information related to the function permitted to be executed for each user is recorded in association with the user. The user operates the operation unit 11 to input information about the user (for example, an account name) and a password to the MFP 1. When these pieces of information are input to the operation unit 11, the CPU 21 refers to the authentication database 27b and determines whether authentication is possible. If the authentication is possible, the CPU 21 determines that the user is authenticated, and based on the authentication database 27b, can execute a function that is permitted for the user. At this time, the user is logged in to the MFP 1. By using the user authentication function, the convenience of the MFP 1 can be enhanced by adapting the display on the display panel 13 and the available functions to the authenticated user. In addition, a high security effect can be obtained such that a printed matter can be output when the authenticated user is near the MFP 1 without touching the eyes of other users. As a user authentication method, for example, a card authentication method using a contact / non-contact ID card, a biometric authentication method using user fingerprint information, vein information, or the like may be employed.

  The voice input / output unit 50 includes a microphone, a speaker, and the like, and inputs voice in a conference room in which the MFP 1 is installed, for example, and plays back voice data transmitted via the Internet. By outputting the voice of a remote person, the person can participate in the conference.

  [Configuration of Server 100]

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the server 100.

  Referring to the figure, server 100 includes a control unit 120, a network unit 129, an HDD (an example of a storage unit) 140, and a communication unit 131. The control unit 120 includes a CPU 121, a ROM 123, and a RAM 125. The control unit 120, the network unit 129, the communication unit 131, and the HDD 140 are all connected to the system bus. Thereby, each part of the control part 120, the network part 129, the communication unit 131, and HDD140 is connected so that transmission / reception of a signal is possible.

  The network unit 129 connects the server 100 to the Internet 800. As a result, the server 100 can be connected to an external network.

  Further, the server 100 can communicate with an external device such as the MFP 1 or the PC 200 by controlling the communication unit 131. The server 100 can receive, for example, image data read by the scan unit 40 of the MFP 1 and data such as a print job transmitted from the PC 200. The received data is stored in the HDD 140 as necessary.

  The CPU 121 controls various operations of the server 100 by executing a control program 150 stored in the ROM 123, RAM 125, HDD 140, or the like. CPU 121 executes control program 150 in accordance with an operation command transmitted from PC 200 or the like, information transmitted from MFP 1, or the like. Thereby, various functions of the server 100 are executed.

  The ROM 123 and RAM 125 operate in the same manner as the ROM 23 and RAM 25 of the MFP 1, for example. The CPU 121 controls the operation of the server 100 by writing data into and reading data from the ROM 123 and RAM 125. The HDD 140 stores job data 160 and a job status table 170.

  [Configuration of PC 200]

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the PC 200.

  Referring to the figure, the PC 200 includes an input device 211, a display device 213, a control unit 220, a communication unit 229, an HDD 240, and an audio input / output unit 231. The control unit 220 includes a CPU 221, a ROM 223, and a RAM 225. Each part of the PC 200 is connected to the system bus so that signals can be transmitted and received.

  The configurations of the control unit 220 and the communication unit 229 are substantially the same as the configurations of the control unit 120 and the communication unit 131 of the server 100, for example. Since the communication unit 229 is connected to the network, the PC 200 can communicate with an external device such as the MFP 1 or the server 100. The CPU 221 controls the operation of the PC 200 by executing a control program 250 stored in the HDD 240 and writing / reading data to / from the ROM 223 or RAM 225.

  The input device 211 is, for example, a keyboard or a pointing device such as a mouse. The user can input various instructions to the PC 200 by operating the input device 211. When the input device 211 is operated, an operation signal is transmitted to the control unit 220. The CPU 221 controls the operation of the PC 200 according to the operation signal.

  The display device 213 is a monitor device such as an LCD display, for example. Various displays are made on the display device 213 by the control unit 220, so that the user can input various instructions to the PC 200 while confirming the display.

  For example, in addition to the control program 250, user document data 280 is stored in the HDD 240. The document data 280 is, for example, a text format file or a data format file that can be edited by an application program operating on the PC 200.

  Each of the communication units 29, 131, and 229 may be a short-range wireless communication device or a device connected to a wired LAN.

  [Configuration and operation of seat position display]

  FIG. 6 is a front view of the seat position display unit 320.

  Referring to the figure, seat position display section 320 includes a camera 330, a display section 340, and a card authentication device 350.

  The camera 330 photographs the face of a person entering the room. An image obtained by photographing is sent to the assessment server 100A. The assessment server 100A analyzes the photographed face image based on the database and determines who is entering the room.

  The card authentication device 350 reads information of an RFID tag possessed by a person entering the room. The read information is sent to the assessment server 100A. The assessment server 100A analyzes the read information based on the database, and determines who is entering the room.

  The display unit 340 performs display based on a signal from the assessment server 100A, and displays the most preferable seat position for the person entering the room.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of display contents of the seat position display unit 320.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the display unit 340 may display a name of the person entering the room determined by the assessment server 100 </ b> A and a message informing the person of the most preferable position. May be displayed, and the most preferable position for the person entering the room may be displayed on the map. That is, in the example of FIG. 6, the text indicates that the optimum seat position is the position “A-5”. In the example of FIG. 7, the optimal seat positions of all persons are indicated by displaying names on a map. The most preferable position for the person entering the room is indicated by black and white reversal (see the reverse display of “Konishi” in FIG. 7). The black and white reversal part may be flushed to convey the position in an easy-to-understand manner. Here, as shown in FIG. 7, three groups of six seats are provided in the room, and 18 persons are accommodated in the room.

  By looking at the display of FIG. 6 and FIG. 7, the person entering the room can know where it is best to sit.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of a room to which the seat position management system is applied.

  As shown in FIG. 8, there are 3 groups of 6 seats in the room, and 18 people are accommodated in the room (working position consisting of 18 seats and a desk). Are numbered "1" to "18"). Two doors for entering the room are provided, and seat position display parts 320a and 320b are provided in the vicinity of each door. At a position surrounded by an alternate long and short dash line ellipse, the face image of the person entering the room identifies who the person is.

  The MFP 1A that performs monochrome printing is placed at the lower left position (near the seat “3”) in FIG. 8 indicating the room, and the MFP 1B that performs color printing is positioned at the lower right position in FIG. It is placed near the seat “18”.

  A wired LAN 390 indicated by a solid thick line connects each desk to the assessment server 100A and the like. Thus, the person sitting on the seat can connect his / her notebook personal computer to the LAN 390 or connect a desktop personal computer to the LAN 390.

  The area surrounded by the dotted ellipse in FIG. 8 indicates the detectable positions of the RFID tags 300A to 300D. When a person holding the RFID tags 300A to 300D enters the area, the RFID antenna 310 communicates with the RFID tags 300A to 300D and reads information described therein.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the personal seating position collection process executed by the assessment server 100A.

  The process of steps S101 to S113 is executed from when the individual enters the room until the person sits down. When the individual is seated and the PC is connected to the LAN 390, the process of step S115 is executed. The databases D1 to D9 in FIGS. 9 and 10 are databases provided in a server such as the assessment server 100A.

  Referring to the figure, when a face of a person who is going to enter the room is photographed by camera 330 (FIG. 6) in step S101, the face is compared with data in face database D1, and an individual is identified. In step S103, it is determined whether or not an individual has been specified. If YES, the personal identification result data is retained, and the process proceeds to step S113. If “NO” in the step S103, the process is ended.

  On the other hand, if the radio wave of the RFID tag is caught by the RFID antenna 310 in step S105, the process proceeds to step S107, and the owner of the RFID tag is specified based on the identification information recorded in the RFID tag.

  In step S109, the RFID antenna 310 is used to track the movement of the RFID tag (where the RFID tag is located, that is, where the individual who owns the RFID is located). In step S111, it is detected whether the RFID tag has not moved for a predetermined time. If “NO” in the step S111, the process returns to the step S107, and if “YES”, it is determined that the person is seated in a step S113.

  In step S115, it is determined whether a PC is connected to the wired LAN 390 using the connection monitoring database D3 and the wired LAN database D4. If connected, it is determined in step S117 who is the owner of the PC based on the identification information of the PC. If it is determined in step S117, it is determined in step S119 that the person is seated. If the determination cannot be made, the processing here ends.

  When an individual's seating and its location are confirmed, the data is stored in the seating record database D2. For specifying the actual seating position, the following methods (1) to (3) can be used.

  (1) The seating position is recognized by the individual identification number of the wired LAN and the information terminal (PC etc.).

  (2) Recognize an individual's sitting position by face authentication and tracking of the RFID tag after face authentication.

  (3) Recognize the sitting position of an individual by detecting an RFID tag.

  Here, it is assumed that information is collected in all of (1) to (3), and the information is adopted in order of priority from (1) to (3). That is, when all of the information (1) to (3) can be acquired, the seat position obtained from the information (1) is adopted, and the information (2) and (3) can be acquired. Adopts the seat position obtained from the information of (2). This is because the reliability of information decreases in the order of (1) to (3).

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the calculation process of the optimum seating position of the individual executed by the assessment server 100A.

  The assessment server 100A is stored in the use history of the indoor telephone (extension telephone) 380, the data stored in the database D5 of the mail server, the data stored in the database D6 of the conference schedule server, and the database D7 of the task management server. Based on the obtained data, the usage status of these communication tools is stored in the count database D8. Based on the data in the count database D8 and the data in the weighting table database D9, the assessment server 100A calculates the degree of relationship for all combinations of two of the plurality of persons in step S201. This degree of relationship will be described later.

  In step S203, the assessment server 100A groups a plurality of persons based on the degree of relationship. In step S205, the assessment server 100A acquires the usage history of the image forming apparatus (MFP) for each group from the MFP usage history database D10. Based on the acquired use history of the image forming apparatus, the use frequency of the image forming apparatus in each group is calculated. Groups are identified in order from the group with the highest frequency of use of the image forming apparatus. Further, the frequency of use of the image forming apparatus for each individual in each group is calculated. Individuals are identified in descending order of frequency of use of the image forming apparatus.

  In step S207, a preferred seat position is calculated based on the frequency of use of the image forming apparatuses in each group and the frequency of use of individual image forming apparatuses in the group. In step S209, it is determined whether the number of times a person enters the room is greater than or equal to a predetermined number. If YES, the processing here is terminated, and if NO, a suggested seat position is displayed.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the seating position assessment process executed by the assessment server 100A.

  Based on the information in the seat performance database D2 in FIG. 9 and the preferred seat position calculated in step S207 in FIG. 10, the coincidence ratio between them is calculated in step S301. In step S303, the calculation result is displayed to the assessment executor (administrator).

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a process for proposing a seating position to a room occupant executed by the assessment server 100A.

  If an individual is specified in front of the seat position display unit 320 in step S401, the optimum seat position of the individual specified in step S403 is acquired from the calculation result in step S207 of FIG. 10, and displayed in step S405. It is displayed on the device 340.

  In this way, the preferred seating position can be communicated before the individual arrives at the seat. Moreover, the display of the optimal seat may be displayed on the screen of the entrance / exit card reader, or may be displayed on a personal portable terminal. When displaying on a portable terminal, it is possible to notify the optimal position from the assessment server 100A to the portable terminal by e-mail. Moreover, you may display an optimal position on the large display of a workplace.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the contents of the weighting table D9 of FIG.

  Here, it is assumed that telephone, electronic mail, conference schedule, and task management are used as communication tools. In the table, weighting counts are defined as “1.0”, “2.0”, “2.0”, and “1.5”, respectively. In this method, the emphasis is placed on e-mail and conference schedule information, and the importance is lowered in the order of task management and telephone. This weighting is applied to all members (all persons).

  FIG. 14 is a diagram showing the relationship degree calculation processing in step S201 of FIG.

  Here, a case will be described in which five persons A to E are users of the communication tool and the five persons are grouped. Each time a communication tool used by each person, such as telephone, e-mail, meeting schedule, and task management, is used, it is specified to whom (to whom) communication was performed. For example, in the case of an electronic mail, it is determined who has communicated with by detecting a destination. As a result, the number of times of communication with another specific person is recorded by each communication tool within a predetermined period.

  In FIG. 14, it is recorded that communication between Mr. A and Mr. B was performed 10 times by telephone, and that communication was performed 25 times by e-mail. In addition, according to the meeting schedule, it was recorded that eight meetings including Mr. A and Mr. B were held, and according to task management, it was recorded that Mr. A and Mr. B performed the same eight times. Has been.

  By multiplying each of these times by the weighting count of FIG. 13, it is recorded that communication of 10 times × 1.0 = 10.0 is made for the telephone, and 25 times × 2 for the electronic mail. It is recorded that communication of 0.0 = 50.0 was performed. In addition, it was recorded that 8 times × 2.0 = 16.0 meetings were held regarding the meeting schedule, and that 8 times × 1.5 = 12.0 tasks were recorded regarding task management. Has been. In addition, the sum of the numbers after multiplying these coefficients is recorded as the degree of relation.

  The communication between Mr. A and Mr. C, Mr. A and Mr. D, and Mr. A and Mr. E is recorded in the same manner as the communication between Mr. A and Mr. B.

  Similarly, the communication between Mr. B, Mr. C, Mr. D, and Mr. E is also recorded.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a specific example of the grouping process executed in step S203 of FIG.

  FIG. 15A shows the degree of relationship between each person calculated in FIG. For example, the numerical value of “88.0”, which is the degree of relationship between Mr. A and Mr. B, is recorded as AB = 88.0 in FIG. 15A, and the degree of relationship between Mr. A and Mr. “12. The numerical value “5” is recorded as AC = 12.5 in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 15B, sorting is performed in descending order of the degree of relationship. Here, a pair of persons having a degree of relationship equal to or higher than the threshold value “50.0” is extracted. Here, four sets of AE, BE, AB, and CD are equal to or greater than the threshold value.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a specific example of the grouping result.

  When the four sets of AE, BE, AB, and CD as a result of extraction with the threshold value in FIG. 15B are grouped, the first group consisting of Mr. A, Mr. B, and Mr. E as shown in FIG. , C, and D are formed as a second group.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a specific example of information stored in the MFP usage history database D10 of FIG.

  In this case, information of A to E is arranged in the vertical direction, and the total number of times each individual MFP is used in the horizontal direction, the number of times of use as prints and copies, and the number of times of use as prints. The number of uses as a copy and the number of uses as a scan are recorded. The number of uses is recorded as the number of uses of color (C) MFP 1B, the number of uses of monochrome (BW) MFP 1A, and the total (TTL) thereof.

  More specifically, in FIG. 17, the number of times that Mr. A performed printing with the color MFP 1B within a predetermined period is 15 times, and the number of times that Mr. A performed printing with the monochrome MFP 1A is 20 times. As a result, the total number of uses (TTL) for printing is 35. Further, the number of times that Mr. A has made a copy with the color MFP 1B within a predetermined period is 5 times, and the number of times with the monochrome MFP 1A is 6 times. As a result, the total number of uses (TTL) as a copy is 11 times.

  As a result of the above, it is recorded that the number of times that Mr. A has performed printing or copying with the color MFP 1B within the predetermined period is 20 times, and that the number of times of printing or copying with the monochrome MFP 1A is 26 times. The total use count (TTL) of the MFPs 1A and 1B as Mr. A's print or copy is recorded as 46 times.

  Further, in FIG. 17, the number of times that Mr. A performed scanning with the color MFP 1B within the predetermined period is 0, and the number of times that Mr. A performed scanning with the monochrome MFP 1A is two. Therefore, the total number of times of use (TTL) of the MFP as a scan is two.

  Accordingly, the total use count of Mr. A's color MFP 1B is 20, the total use count of monochrome MFP 1A is 28, and the total use count of color or monochrome MFP is 48.

  The recording is performed in the same way for Mr. B to Mr. E.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram showing the usage of the individual color MFP calculated in step S205 of FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 17, the number of times of printing or copying by color MFP, the number of times of printing by color MFP, and the number of times of copying by color MFP of each of A to E is read from the table of FIG. Posted to table. For example, in the case of Mr. A, from the table of FIG. 17, “20” which is the number of times of printing or copying by Mr. A's color MFP, “15” which is the number of times of printing by the color MFP, and copying of the color MFP. The number of times “5” is read out and transferred to the table of FIG.

  Further, in the recording of each person in FIG. 18, the number of times of printing or copying by the color MFP × (number of times of printing by the color MFP + number of times of copying by the color MFP), that is, the square of the number of times of printing or copying by the color MFP is the color usage. Calculated as a degree and recorded. For example, the color usage of Mr. A in FIG. 18 is 20 × 20 = 400.

  On the right side of FIG. 18, for each group in which the grouping of FIG. 15 is made, the color usage of each person constituting the group, the rank from the person with the highest color usage, and the color usage within the group. The average of is recorded. For example, in the ABE group, Mr. A's color usage “400”, Mr. B ’s color usage “484”, and Mr. E ’s color usage “225” are average values thereof. “370” is recorded. It is also shown that the color usage is higher in the order of Mr. B, Mr. A, and Mr. E. The same applies to the CD group.

  By referring to the data shown in FIG. 18, it can be seen that the average usage of the color MFP in the CD group is higher than that in the ABE group. It can also be seen that in the CD group, Mr. D has higher usage of the color MFP than Mr. C.

  FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the usage of the individual monochrome MFP calculated in step S205 of FIG.

  Referring to the figure, the number of times of printing or copying by the monochrome MFP, the number of times of printing by the monochrome MFP, and the number of times of copying by the monochrome MFP of each of A to E is read from the table of FIG. Posted to table. Taking Mr. A as an example, from the table of FIG. 17, “26” which is the number of times of printing or copying by Mr. A's monochrome MFP, “20” which is the number of times of printing by the monochrome MFP, and copying of the monochrome MFP. The number of times “6” is read out and transferred to the table of FIG.

  Further, in the recording of each person in FIG. 19, the number of times of printing or copying by the monochrome MFP × (number of times of printing by the monochrome MFP + number of times of copying by the monochrome MFP), that is, the square of the number of times of printing or copying by the monochrome MFP is monochrome usage. Calculated as a degree and recorded. For example, the monochrome usage of Mr. A in FIG. 18 is 26 × 26 = 676.

  On the right side of FIG. 19, for each group in which the grouping of FIG. 15 is made, the monochrome usage of each person constituting the group, the rank from the person with the highest monochrome usage, and the monochrome usage within the group The average of is recorded. For example, in the ABE group, Mr. A's monochrome usage “676”, Mr. B ’s monochrome usage “784”, and Mr. E ’s monochrome usage “3844” are average values thereof. “1768” is recorded. It is also shown that the monochrome usage is higher in the order of Mr. E, Mr. B, and Mr. A. The same applies to the CD group.

  By referring to the data shown in FIG. 19, it can be seen that the ABE group has an average higher usage of the monochrome MFP than the CD group. It can also be seen that in the CD group, Mr. C has higher usage of the monochrome MFP than Mr. D.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram showing the average output number of personal color MFPs calculated in step S205 of FIG.

  Referring to the figure, the number of times of printing or copying by each color MFP of each of Mr. A to Mr. E is read from the table of FIG. 17 and transferred to the table of FIG. For example, taking Mr. A as an example, “20”, which is the number of times of printing or copying by Mr. A's color MFP, is read from the table of FIG. 17 and transferred to the table of FIG.

  Further, the total number of prints made by the color MFP within a predetermined period and the number of copies made by the color MFP within a predetermined period, which are separately recorded in the MFP usage history database D10 (total output number: TTL / V) ) Are read out and recorded in the table of FIG. For example, it is assumed that the number of prints by Mr. A's color MFP is 50, the number of copies is 20, and the total number of copies is 70.

  Further, the total number of output sheets (TTL / V) of each person is divided by the value of the number of times of printing or copying by the color MFP and rounded off to calculate the average color output number. For example, in the case of Mr. A, 70 ÷ 20 = 3.5, and the rounded value of 4 is the average color output number.

  On the right side of FIG. 20, for each group in which the grouping of FIG. 15 is made, the average color output number of each person constituting the group, the rank from the person with the largest color average output number, and the color within the group The average output number is recorded. For example, in the ABE group, the average color output number of Mr. A is “4”, the average color output number of Mr. B is “6”, and the average color output number of Mr. E is “12”. The value “7” is recorded. In addition, it is shown that the number of color average output sheets increases in the order of Mr. E, Mr. B, and Mr. A. The same applies to the CD group.

  Referring to the data in FIG. 20, it can be seen that the ABE group on average has a larger number of sheets to be output by using one color MFP than the CD group. It is also possible to grasp the average number of output colors within the group. For people with a large number of color average output sheets, it is more efficient to use a faster color MFP.

  FIG. 21 is a diagram showing the average output number of personal monochrome MFPs calculated in step S205 of FIG.

  Referring to the drawing, the number of times of printing or copying by each monochrome MFP for each of Mr. A to Mr. E is read from the table of FIG. 17 and is transferred to the table of FIG. For example, taking Mr. A as an example, “26”, which is the number of times of printing or copying by Mr. A's monochrome MFP, is read from the table of FIG. 17 and is transferred to the table of FIG.

  Further, the total number of copies printed by the monochrome MFP within a predetermined period and the number of copies of the monochrome MFP within a predetermined period, which are separately recorded in the MFP usage history database D10 (total output number: TTL / V) ) Are read out and recorded in the table of FIG. For example, it is assumed that the number of prints by Mr. A's monochrome MFP is 50, the number of copies is 20, and the total number of copies is 70.

  Further, the total number of output sheets (TTL / V) of each person is divided by the value of the number of times of printing or copying by the monochrome MFP and rounded off to calculate the average number of monochrome output sheets. For example, in the case of Mr. A, 70 ÷ 26 = 2.6, and the value of 3 rounded off is the average monochrome output number.

  On the right side of FIG. 21, for each group that has been grouped in FIG. 15, the average monochrome output number of each person constituting the group, the rank from the person with the largest average monochrome output number, and the monochrome within the group. The average output number is recorded. For example, in the ABE group, Mr. A's average monochrome output number “3”, Mr. B ’s average monochrome output number “4”, Mr. E ’s average monochrome output number “3”, and the average The value “3” is recorded. In addition, it is shown that the average number of monochrome output is larger in the order of Mr. B, Mr. E, and Mr. A. The same applies to the CD group.

  Referring to the data in FIG. 21, it can be seen that the ABE group on average has fewer sheets to be output by using the monochrome MFP once than the CD group. It is also possible to grasp the average monochrome output number in the group. For people with a large average monochrome output number, it is more efficient to use a faster monochrome MFP.

  FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a table in which the calculation results of FIGS.

  Referring to the figure, color usage, monochrome usage, color average output number, and monochrome average output number are recorded in each of the ABE group and the CD group. In addition, the ranking of each item of each member in the group is recorded.

  By using such information, it is possible to arrange the persons making up the group close to each other, or to arrange the group and the person on the side of the image forming apparatus frequently used by each group and each person.

  Next, a method for determining the seat position based on the table of FIG. 22 will be described.

  FIG. 23 is a plan view showing a specific example of the room for determining the seat position.

  Referring to the drawing, there are seat groups G1 and G2 in which four 2 × 2 persons can sit. A color MFP 1B and a monochrome MFP 1A capable of paper output at a relatively high speed exist near the upper right seat of the seat group G1. A monochrome MFP 1C that performs sheet output at a relatively low speed exists near the upper right seat of the seat group G2.

  FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a result of seat arrangement of the first group in the room of FIG.

  Here, the process in which the assessment server 100A determines the seat arrangements of the A-E based on the information in FIG. 22 will be described.

  First, a group having a high usage level (color usage level) of the color MFP is determined from the two groups, the ABE group and the CD group. This is to select the group having the highest “color usage” in FIG. In FIG. 22, the CD group with the average color usage of 1751 has the highest color usage, so the CD group is selected.

  The seat group G1 is selected for the CD group so that people in the same group are placed in the same seat group and the group with the highest color usage is placed near the color MFP 1B.

  In the CD group, the monochrome usage and the color usage for each of C and D are compared. Here, Mr. D has higher color usage than Mr. C, and Mr. C has higher monochrome usage than Mr. D. Accordingly, Mr. C is arranged near the monochrome MFP, and Mr. D is arranged near the color MFP. For example, as shown in FIG. 24, Mr. C and Mr. D are arranged.

  When there are two members constituting the group, or when there is a color MFP near the seat group, the arrangement of the seats is determined as described above.

  Next, ABE group personnel are arranged for the seat group G2. Near the seat group G2, there are a high-speed monochrome MFP 1A and a low-speed monochrome MFP 1C. Thus, when there are a plurality of types of monochrome MFPs near the seat group, the seat arrangement is determined as follows.

  FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a process of determining the seat arrangement in the group of Mr. A, Mr. B, and Mr. E.

  From the information of FIG. 22, the monochrome usage rank, monochrome average output number rank, color usage rank order, and color average output number rank of Mr. A, B, and E are read out. As in 25, the sum of the rank of monochrome usage of each person and the rank of the average monochrome output number is obtained. Further, the sum of the rank of the color usage of each person and the rank of the average color output number is obtained. For example, in FIG. 25, Mr. A's monochrome usage rank is “3”, monochrome average output number is “3”, and the sum is “6”.

  FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a result of seat arrangement for the second group in the room of FIG.

  First, the assessment server 100A, based on the sum of the rank of monochrome usage and the rank of the average monochrome output number on the left in FIG. 25, has a small value, B (sum is “3”) and E (sum) Is placed close to the monochrome high-speed MFP 1A. In addition, based on the sum of the rank of color usage and the rank of the average color output number on the right side of FIG. 25, Mr. B (sum is “3”) and Mr. E (sum is “4”) whose values are small. ) And Mr. A (sum is “5”) in this order so as to be arranged near the color MFP 1B.

  For example, regarding the sum of the rank of monochrome usage and the rank of average monochrome output sheets, Mr. B (sum is “3”) and Mr. E (sum is “3”) have the same value, but the color usage As for the sum of the order of the color and the order of the average color output number, Mr. B (sum is “3”) is the smallest. Therefore, when comparing Mr. B and Mr. E, the seats are arranged so that Mr. B is located near the color MFP.

  In this way, the arrangement of Mr. A, Mr. B, and Mr. E is performed as shown in FIG. 26 based on the use history of the monochrome MFP and the use history of the color MFP.

  In FIG. 26, the personnel of each group are grouped and placed on the seat. Further, Mr. D who uses the color MFP 1B most frequently is arranged closest to the color MFP 1B. Mr. B who uses a monochrome MFP and uses a color MFP relatively frequently and who uses a color MFP relatively frequently is arranged on the high-speed monochrome MFP 1A side.

  Note that the placement of human resources in the group may be determined based on either monochrome usage or color usage. Alternatively, it may be determined based on either the monochrome average output number or the color average output number.

  FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a method of calculating the degree of coincidence between each person's seating record recorded by the seating record recording unit 405 and the seat position calculated by the calculation unit 407 that calculates the optimum seat arrangement.

  Here, numbers 16 to 16 are assigned to each of the 16 seats, and a record (actual result) of a person (any of a to p) who has sat in the past in each seat and the calculated optimum seat arrangement. Persons who are desired to sit in the respective seats in (1) are recorded (the proposal of the optimum person in each seat and any one of a to p). Further, in each seat, a flag (◯) is given when the result matches the proposal.

  The coincidence degree display unit 409 calculates the ratio of the number of seats with a flag in the total number of seats. In FIG. 27, the total number of seats is 16, and the number of seats with flags is nine. The ratio of the number of seats with a flag to the total number of seats is evaluated (assessment) as 9 ÷ 16 × 100 = 56 [%].

  [Operations and effects in the embodiment]

  As described above, the optimal arrangement and assessment system for a person includes a function for collecting a usage history of an MFP (an example of an image forming apparatus) for each individual unit, and a function for collecting a usage degree of a communication tool for performing exchange between members. A function of creating a plurality of groups from members based on the collected results, a function of calculating the usage of the image forming apparatus for each group from the usage frequency of the image forming apparatuses of the members belonging to the created group, In order from the group with the highest use degree, there is a function of arranging in a place close to the image forming apparatus, and in the order from a member having a high frequency of using the image forming apparatus in the group, a function of arranging in a place close to the image forming apparatus.

  In the function of creating a group, each communication tool is weighted, and a plurality of groups are created using this as a correction value.

  Regarding the collection of the frequency of use of e-mail as a communication tool, it may be regarded as the same group candidate when both the number of times included as the same destination and the number of times of transmission / reception exceed the reference value. Further, when the number of times the second person is included as the destination (or sender) in the e-mail transmitted (or received) by the first person exceeds the reference value, the first and second A person may be determined as the same group.

  The optimal placement position can be communicated to the person entering the room. Moreover, it is good also as comparing an optimal arrangement | positioning position and the seating performance position in a predetermined period, and calculating and displaying a coincidence degree.

  In the present embodiment, in a free address situation (in which each individual does not have a dedicated seat and can sit at a favorite position), the person is moved instead of the optimum arrangement by the movement of the image forming apparatus. Optimal placement can be performed. As a result, OPS (MPS) can be executed efficiently with good effort and little effort. That is, it is possible to place a user who frequently uses an IT device such as an MFP near the IT device, to reduce the time for an individual to move, and to increase the time for desk work. In addition, since members who are closely related to work gather near each other, face-to-face communication can be easily performed, so that communication time can be shortened and work efficiency can be improved.

  In addition, the efficiency of the current seat can be recognized / corrected by the optimal arrangement derived by the assessment tool.

  The work position determining device such as a seat may be provided in the server as in the above-described embodiment, or may be provided in the MFP 1 or the PC.

  The processing in the above-described embodiment may be performed by software or may be performed using a hardware circuit. In addition, a program for executing the processing in the above-described embodiment can be provided, and the program is recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk, a hard disk, a ROM, a RAM, and a memory card and provided to the user. You may decide to do it. The program is executed by a computer such as a CPU. The program may be downloaded to the apparatus via a communication line such as the Internet.

  The above-described embodiment is to be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

1,1A-1C MFP
21 CPU
29 Communication Unit 100, 100A, 100B Server 121 CPU
131 Communication unit 200A-200D PC
221 CPU
229 Communication unit 300A to 300D RFID tag 310 RFID antenna 320 Seat position display unit 401 Seat recognition unit 403 Communication tool count unit (usage status collection unit)
405 Seating record recording unit 407 Optimal arrangement calculation unit 409 Matching degree display unit 411 Optimal arrangement display unit 413 MFP usage history recording unit

Claims (15)

A collection means for collecting the usage status of the communication tool;
Grouping means for dividing a plurality of persons using the communication tool into groups based on the usage status collected by the collecting means;
A position determining device comprising position determining means for determining work positions of the plurality of persons according to grouping by the grouping means. An image forming apparatus is installed in the room including the work position,
The position determination device further includes an acquisition unit that acquires a use history of the image forming apparatus in the group,
The position determination device according to claim 1, wherein the position determination unit determines a work position of one group grouped by the grouping unit based on a use history acquired by the acquisition unit.   The position determining unit determines a work position of each person constituting the group based on a use history of the image forming apparatus in each person constituting a certain group grouped by the grouping unit. The position determining device according to claim 2.   4. The position determination device according to claim 2, wherein the position determination unit allocates a work position from a place close to the image forming apparatus in order from a group in which the image forming apparatus is frequently used. 5.   5. The position determination apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the position determination unit allocates a work position from a place close to the image forming apparatus in order from a person who uses the image forming apparatus frequently. The collecting means collects the usage status of a plurality of types of communication tools,
The grouping means weights each of the plurality of types of communication tools, and divides a plurality of persons using the communication tools into groups based on the usage status of the plurality of types of communication tools. 6. The position determining device according to any one of 5 above.   The position determination device according to claim 1, wherein the communication tool includes at least one of telephone, electronic mail, meeting schedule management, and task management. The collecting means collects at least the use status of e-mail;
The position determination device according to claim 1, wherein the grouping unit performs grouping based on an e-mail destination transmitted by a first person among the plurality of persons.   In the grouping unit, the number of times that the second person of the plurality of persons is included in the e-mail transmitted by the first person of the plurality of persons exceeds the reference value. The position determination device according to claim 8, wherein the first person and the second person are grouped together in the same case.   In the grouping means, the number of times the second person of the plurality of persons is included in the e-mail received by the first person of the plurality of persons exceeds a reference value. In this case, the position determination device according to claim 8 or 9, wherein the first person and the second person are grouped together.   The position determination device according to claim 1, wherein the grouping unit sets persons having a communication count exceeding a reference value as the same group.   The position determining apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising display means for displaying a work position determined by the position determining means.   The position according to any one of claims 1 to 12, further comprising a calculation unit that compares an actual work position of the plurality of persons with a work position determined by the position determination unit and calculates a degree of coincidence. Decision device. A collection step for collecting the usage status of the communication tool;
A grouping step of dividing a plurality of persons using the communication tool into groups based on the usage situation collected by the collecting step;
And a position determining step of determining work positions of the plurality of persons according to the grouping by the grouping step. A collection step for collecting the usage status of the communication tool;
A grouping step of dividing a plurality of persons using the communication tool into groups based on the usage situation collected by the collecting step;
A control program for a position determining device, which causes a computer to execute a position determining step for determining work positions of the plurality of persons according to grouping by the grouping step.

Images