Abstract: Method and apparatus for evaluating user movement in a fulfillment center. A plurality of sub-tasks for performing a fulfillment operation are determined. Embodiments retrieve a training set of motion data that includes a plurality of training motion data samples, each specifying motion data over a respective window of time, and train a first data model to classify instances of motion data into portions, based on the plurality of sub-tasks. At least one data model is trained to assess performance of the fulfillment operation, using the training set of motion data. An instance of motion data describing motion performed during the fulfillment operation is received, the instance of motion data is divided into a plurality of portions, using the first data model, and a measure of quality is generated, by analyzing the plurality of portions of the instance of motion data using the trained at least one data model.

Abstract: Robotic units may operate in a workspace that is shared with human workers. In order to safeguard the workers, operation of a robotic unit may be inhibited when a worker is near the robotic unit. In order to determine the position of the worker and thereby determine the proximity of the worker and the robotic unit, a time-of-flight measurement is performed to determine the distance of the worker from each of multiple reference locations within or about the workspace. A circular bounding area is defined around each reference location based on the determined distances. A bounded position area is identified as the intersection of the circular bounding areas. The worker is then indicated as being within the bounded position area.

Abstract: Ultrasonic tracking of a worker's hands may be used to monitor performance of assigned tasks. An inventory system includes inventory bins configured to store inventory items, an ultrasonic unit, ultrasonic transducers, and a management module. The ultrasonic unit is configured to be worn by a user in proximity to the user's hand and to periodically emit ultrasonic sound pulses. The ultrasonic transducers are arranged relative to the inventory bins and configured to receive the emitted pulses. The management module is operatively coupled with the ultrasonic transducers and configured to process signals generated by the ultrasonic transducers to identify an inventory bin based on proximity of the ultrasonic unit relative to the identified inventory bin. The management module monitors performance of an assigned task based on the identified inventory bin.

Abstract: Ultrasonic tracking of a worker's hands may be used to monitor performance of assigned tasks. An inventory system includes inventory bins configured to store inventory items, an ultrasonic unit, ultrasonic transducers, and a management module. The ultrasonic unit is configured to be worn by a user in proximity to the user's hand and to periodically emit ultrasonic sound pulses. The ultrasonic transducers are arranged relative to the inventory bins and configured to receive the emitted pulses. The management module is operatively coupled with the ultrasonic transducers and configured to process signals generated by the ultrasonic transducers to identify an inventory bin based on proximity of the ultrasonic unit relative to the identified inventory bin. The management module monitors performance of an assigned task based on the identified inventory bin.

Abstract: Robotic units may operate in a workspace that is shared with human workers. In order to safeguard the workers, operation of a robotic unit may be inhibited when a worker is near the robotic unit. In order to determine the position of the worker and thereby determine the proximity of the worker and the robotic unit, a time-of-flight measurement is performed to determine the distance of the worker from each of multiple reference locations within or about the workspace. A circular bounding area is defined around each reference location based on the determined distances. A bounded position area is identified as the intersection of the circular bounding areas. The worker is then indicated as being within the bounded position area.