System for the use of autonomous robots with ergonomic swarm ramps

Abstract

Methods and systems are provided that include one or more sensors configured to obtain biometric information about one or more persons who are to assist in the manufacture of a vehicle; a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium configured to store operational requirements for the manufacture of the vehicle; and a processor configured to at least provide instructions for generating a swarm ramp on which the vehicle is to be placed to create an ergonomic workspace for the one or more persons, based on the biometric information and the operational requirements.

Description

Technical field

[0001] The technical field generally refers to vehicles and in particular to systems for manufacturing vehicles using autonomous ergonomic robot swarm ramps. background

[0002] Today, vehicles are often manufactured in production facilities where various people are involved in the process. However, existing systems do not always ensure optimal vehicle production, for example, with regard to ergonomic considerations for the people assisting in the manufacturing process.

[0003] Accordingly, it is desirable to provide improved methods and systems for controlling vehicles, also with regard to ergonomic considerations for the persons assisting in the manufacture of the vehicles. Furthermore, other desirable features and characteristics of the present invention will become clear from the following detailed description of the invention and the accompanying claims in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and this background information. Description

[0004] In an exemplary embodiment, a method is provided which includes obtaining, via one or more sensors, biometric information about one or more persons who are to assist in the manufacture of a vehicle; obtaining, via a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium, operational requirements for the manufacture of the vehicle; and providing, via a processor, instructions for creating a swarm ramp on which the vehicle is to be placed in order to create an ergonomic workspace for the one or more persons, based on the biometric information and the operational requirements.

[0005] Also in an exemplary embodiment, the swarm ramp comprises a plurality of ramp components and a plurality of autonomous mobile robots, AMRs, configured to be coupled with the ramp components, and the method further comprises forming the swarm ramp according to the instructions provided by the processor by automated movement of the ramp components into their position and nesting the ramp components together according to the instructions of the AMRs.

[0006] In another exemplary embodiment, the automated movement of the ramp components and the nesting of the ramp components are carried out at a pre-stage location, and the swarm ramp then travels as a unit to a manufacturing location.

[0007] In one exemplary embodiment, the automated movement of the ramp components takes place separately for each of the ramp components until the ramp components reach a manufacturing location, and the nesting is then carried out at the manufacturing location.

[0008] In one exemplary embodiment, the swarm ramp is configured at least partially based on the body size of one or more persons using biometric information.

[0009] In an exemplary embodiment, the swarm ramp is also configured, at least partially, on the basis of a division of labor within the manufacturing plant that is based on operational requirements.

[0010] In an exemplary embodiment, the swarm ramp is also configured at least partially on the basis of an operating length, an operating height, a number of ramp components and assigned lead ramp components, trail ramp components and end ramp components.

[0011] In an exemplary embodiment, the method further comprises calculating, via the processor, a time span required for the ramp components to travel to a nesting destination; and determining, via the processor, an optimized route for the ramp components to travel based on the time span.

[0012] In an exemplary embodiment, the method also includes determining, via the processor, whether any problems exist relating to a current situation for generating the swarm ramp, including based on the time span; and providing a correction of one or more parameters for generating the swarm ramp via the processor if one or more problems are determined to exist.

[0013] In another exemplary embodiment, a system is provided comprising one or more sensors configured to obtain biometric information about one or more persons who are to assist in the manufacture of a vehicle; a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium configured to store operational requirements for the manufacture of the vehicle; and a processor configured to enable at least the provision of instructions for generating a swarm ramp on which the vehicle is to be placed to create an ergonomic workspace for the one or more persons, based on the biometric information and the operational requirements.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment, the system also includes a plurality of ramp components and a plurality of autonomous mobile robots, AMRs, configured to be coupled to the ramp components, wherein the ramp components are configured to form the swarm ramp by automated movement of the ramp components and interleaving the ramp components together, as instructed by the AMRs according to the instructions provided by the processor.

[0015] In one exemplary embodiment, the multiple ramp components are configured to interlock when nested to form the swarm ramp.

[0016] In another exemplary embodiment, the automated movement of the ramp components and the nesting of the ramp components are carried out at a pre-stage location, and the swarm ramp then travels as a unit to a manufacturing location.

[0017] In one exemplary embodiment, the automated movement of the ramp components takes place separately for each of the ramp components until the ramp components reach a manufacturing location, and the nesting is then carried out at the manufacturing location.

[0018] In one exemplary embodiment, the swarm ramp is configured at least partially based on the body size of one or more persons using biometric information.

[0019] In one exemplary embodiment, the swarm ramp is also configured, at least partially, on the basis of a division of labor within the manufacturing plant that is based on operational requirements.

[0020] In an exemplary embodiment, the swarm ramp is also configured at least partially on the basis of an operating length, an operating height, a number of ramp components and designated lead ramp components, trail ramp components and end ramp components.

[0021] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor is further configured to at least allow the calculation of a time span required for the ramp components to travel to a nesting destination, and determines an optimized route for the ramp components to travel based on the time span.

[0022] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor is also configured to enable at least a determination of whether any problems exist with respect to a current situation for generating the swarm ramp, including based on the time span, and to provide a correction of one or more parameters for generating the swarm ramp, via the processor, if it is determined that one or more problems exist.

[0023] In another exemplary embodiment, a system is provided comprising one or more sensors configured to obtain biometric information, including height, about one or more persons who are to assist in the manufacture of a vehicle; a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium configured to store operational requirements for the manufacture of the vehicle; a processor configured to enable at least the provision of instructions for generating a swarm ramp on which the vehicle is to be placed to provide an ergonomic workspace for the one or more persons, based on the biometric information, including the height of the one or more persons, and the operational requirements; and a plurality of ramp components.and a variety of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) configured to couple with the ramp components; wherein the ramp components are configured to interlock when nested to form the swarm ramp, and to form the swarm ramp by automated movement of the ramp components and interlocking of the ramp components as directed by the AMRs in accordance with the instructions provided by the processor. Brief description of the drawings

[0024] The present disclosure is described below in conjunction with the following drawings, where identical numbers denote identical elements and where: Fig. 1 a diagram of a system for controlling the manufacture of a vehicle, which includes the use of an ergonomic swarm ramp with autonomous robot components according to exemplary embodiments; Fig. 2. A diagram of a work environment comprising an ergonomic work area for persons assisting in the manufacture of vehicles, and which is integrated into the system in accordance with exemplary embodiments. Fig. 1 can be integrated; Fig. 3. A diagram of a control system for controlling the manufacture of a vehicle is shown, which is in conjunction with the system of Fig. 1 can be implemented in accordance with exemplary embodiments; Fig. Figure 4 is a diagram of an exemplary autonomous mobile robot (AMR) that is used in conjunction with the system of Fig. 1 can be used in accordance with exemplary embodiments; Fig. 5. A flowchart of a procedure for controlling the manufacture of a vehicle using an ergonomic swarm ramp with autonomous robot components, which is in conjunction with the system of Fig. 1, the work environment of Fig. 2, the control system of Fig. 3 and AMRs, as in Fig. 4 shown, can be implemented in accordance with exemplary embodiments; and Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B, Fig. 6C and Fig. 6D exemplary implementations of the method by Fig. 5 using an ergonomic swarm ramp in conjunction with the system of Fig. 1, the work environment of Fig. 2, the tax system of Fig. 3 and AMRs as in Fig. 4 shown, in accordance with exemplary embodiments. Detailed description

[0025] The following detailed description is merely exemplary and is not intended to limit the disclosure or its application and use. Furthermore, there is no intention to be bound by the theories set forth in the preceding background or in the following detailed description.

[0026] Fig. Figure 1 is a diagram of a system 100 for controlling the manufacture of a vehicle 102 according to exemplary embodiments. In various embodiments, the system 100 uses an ergonomic swarm ramp with autonomous robot components, as explained in more detail below in accordance with exemplary embodiments.

[0027] In various embodiments, the vehicle 102 comprises an automobile. The vehicle 102 can be any number of different types of automobiles, such as a sedan, a station wagon, a truck, or a sport utility vehicle (SUV), and it can have two-wheel drive (2WD) (that is, rear-wheel drive or front-wheel drive), four-wheel drive (4WD), or all-wheel drive (AWD), and / or various other types of vehicles in certain embodiments. In certain embodiments, the vehicle 102 can also include a motorcycle or other vehicle, such as an aircraft, a spacecraft, a watercraft, and so on, and / or one or more other types of mobile platforms (for example, a robot and / or another mobile platform).

[0028] As explained in more detail below, the system 100, in various embodiments, provides an ergonomic workspace for persons (here also referred to as "operators") 104 who participate in the manufacture of the vehicle 102. In certain embodiments, the persons 104 include, for example, any number of human beings, such as employees of a manufacturing plant in which the vehicle 102 is wholly or partially manufactured and / or assembled (here collectively referred to as "manufacturing" the vehicle 102).

[0029] With reference to Fig. Figure 2 shows a diagram of a work environment 200, which is used in conjunction with the system 100 of Fig. 1 can be implemented in accordance with various embodiments. As in Fig. Figure 2 shows that, in various embodiments, one or more platforms 202 are used to raise the vehicle 102 to a suitable height, creating an ergonomically beneficial working area 204 for the persons 104, in order to enable a work environment that is ergonomically conducive to their well-being. In these various embodiments, the ergonomic working area 204 fulfills various laws, regulations, safety concerns, operator preferences, and / or other ergonomic requirements.

[0030] In various embodiments, the ergonomic workspace 204 provides optimal ergonomic conditions for the persons, based on the persons' size, the height and / or other dimensions of the vehicle 102, and the type of work to be performed at a specific location (for example, a specific room, cell, or station) where the persons 104 are to assist in the manufacture of the vehicle 102, among other conditions. For example, relatively tall persons 104 may require a relatively higher ergonomic workspace 204 than relatively short persons 104.Another example is that work on a roof or other relatively higher component of the vehicle 102 (or a relatively higher incline) may require a relatively larger ergonomic working area 204 for the persons 104 than work on a fender or other relatively lower component of the vehicle 102 (or a relatively lower incline), and so on.

[0031] Back to Fig. 1: In various embodiments, the system 100 comprises a control center 106, a swarm ramp 110, and one or more biometric identification devices 116. In various embodiments, the system 100 also comprises a plurality of transmitters and receivers 112 (and / or combinations of transmitters and receivers) at each of the control centers 106, the vehicle 102, the biometric identification devices 116, and the swarm ramp 110 (and their components, as described below). In various embodiments, the transceivers 112 of the control center 106, the vehicle 102, the biometric identification devices 116, and the swarm ramp 110 are used to communicate with each other via one or more wireless communication networks 114 to enable the control of the manufacturing of the vehicle 102 in a manner ergonomically conducive to the persons 104.

[0032] In certain embodiments, the control center 106 comprises a control tower or other control location and / or another control system of a production plant or facility. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, the control center 106 in various embodiments comprises a control system 108 which controls the manufacture of the vehicle 102 wholly or partially using the swarm ramp 110.

[0033] In various embodiments, the vehicle 102 can also include a control system 109 that controls the production of the vehicle 102, in whole or in part, using the swarm ramp 110. In various embodiments, the production of the vehicle 102 can be controlled, in whole or in part, either by: (a) the control system 108 of the control center 106, (b) the control system 109 of the vehicle 102, and / or (c) the control system 108 of the control center 106 and the control system 109 of the vehicle 102 in combination with each other.

[0034] Referring to Fig. Figure 3 presents an exemplary control system 300 in accordance with exemplary embodiments. In various embodiments, the control system 300 corresponds to and / or comprises the control system 108 of the control center 106, the control system 109 of the vehicle 102, or both.

[0035] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the control system 300, in various embodiments, comprises one or more sensors 302 together with a transceiver 304 and a controller 306. In certain embodiments, the sensors 302 comprise one or more cameras, detection sensors (for example, lidar, radar, sonar, ultrasonic sensors, or the like) configured to receive sensor data relating to the vehicle 102 and the swarm ramp 110 and their components, such as for use in aligning the vehicle 102, the swarm ramp 110, and their components when creating working conditions for the persons 104 during the manufacture of the vehicle 102. Fig. 1 in accordance with the ergonomic work envelope of Fig. 2.

[0036] With continued reference to Fig. 3 corresponds to the transmitter receiver 304 in various embodiments, one or more of the transmitter receivers 112 of Fig. 1. In various embodiments, the transmitter-receiver 304 is used to communicate with the other transmitter-receivers 112 of Fig. 1 to communicate, including sending and receiving data between the various components of the system 100 of Fig. 1 regarding the dimensions of the vehicle 102, the manufacturing requirements for the manufacture of the vehicle 102 (for example, including the operational requirements, which include a division of labor for the manufacturing process), the biometric information about the persons 104 and for its use via the control unit 306 in the setup of the swarm ramp 110 in a manner that creates a working environment for the persons 104 that is compatible with the ergonomic work area 204 of Fig. 1 matches.

[0037] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 3, the control unit 306, in various embodiments, comprises a computer system with a processor 308, a memory 310, an interface 312, a storage device 314, and a computer bus 316. The processor 308 performs the calculation and control functions of the control unit 306 and can comprise any type of processor or multiple processors, individual integrated circuits such as a microprocessor, or any number of integrated circuits and / or printed circuit boards working together to perform the functions of a processing unit. During operation, the processor 308 executes one or more programs 318 contained in the memory 310 and, as such, controls the general operation of the control unit 306 when performing the procedures described herein, such as procedure 500 of Fig. 5 and the implementations of the Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B, Fig. 6C and Fig. 6D and as described in connection therewith.

[0038] Memory 310 can be any type of suitable memory. Memory 310 comprises, for example, a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium. In the illustrated embodiment, memory 310 stores the aforementioned program 318 together with one or more stored values ​​320 (for example, stored biometric information about the persons 104 of the Fig. 1 and Fig. 2. Stored information on the manufacturing requirements for vehicle 102, including operational requirements that include a division of labor for the manufacturing process, and so on).

[0039] Bus 316 is used to transfer programs, data, status and other information or signals between the various components of the computer system of the control unit 306.

[0040] The storage device 314 can be any suitable type of storage device, including various types of random-access storage and / or other storage devices. In one exemplary embodiment, the storage device 314 comprises a program product from which the memory 310 can receive a program 318 that performs one or more embodiments of the method 500. Fig. 5 and the implementations of Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B, Fig. 6C and Fig. 6D and as described in connection therewith. In another exemplary embodiment, the program product can be stored directly in memory 310 and / or a secondary storage device (for example, hard disk 322), as described below, and / or otherwise accessed.

[0041] Bus 316 can be any suitable physical or logical means of connecting computer systems and components. This includes, but is not limited to, direct, hard-wired connections, fiber optic technology, infrared, and wireless bus technologies. During operation, the program 318 is stored in memory 310 and executed by processor 308.

[0042] Back to Fig. 1: In various embodiments, the biometric identification devices 116 capture biometric information about the persons 104. In certain embodiments, each room, station or cell of a production plant contains its own individual biometric identification devices 116 to capture biometric information from the persons working in that room, station or cell.

[0043] In certain embodiments, the biometric identification devices 116 collect information from the persons 104 about one or more types of interactions with the persons 104. In certain embodiments, the biometric identification devices 116 include, for example, one or more scanners (for example, one or more radio frequency identification or “RFID” scanners) and / or one or more other sensors and / or other devices configured to capture information about the height of the persons 104 (and, in certain embodiments, other biometric information) by swiping an ID card, detecting a tag or other device, detecting fingerprints, detecting camera images, and / or other individually specific means for the persons 104.

[0044] In various embodiments, the biometric information is transmitted from the biometric identification devices 116 to the control system 108 and / or the control system 109, which can then store the biometric information in the memory 310 and use the biometric information (in addition to the manufacturing requirements for the vehicle 102, which are also stored in the memory 310) to arrange the swarm ramp 110 in a suitable manner to create appropriate ergonomic working conditions for the persons 104 (that is, in accordance with the ergonomic working area 204 that corresponds to the specific persons 104).

[0045] With continued reference to Fig. 1 The swarm ramp 110 in various embodiments comprises a plurality of ramp components 111 which are interconnected and together form the platform 202 of Fig. 1. In particular, the ramp components 111, in various embodiments, when assembled, together provide a level platform 113 that allows persons to work on the vehicle 102 at a suitable height corresponding to the ergonomic working area 204. Furthermore, the ramp components 111, when assembled, in various embodiments, as shown in Fig. Figure 1 shows ramps 115 on both sides of the flat platform 113, so that the vehicle 102 can easily drive up onto and down from the flat platform 113. In certain embodiments, the ramp components 111 are made of plastic; however, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0046] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 1, in various embodiments each of the ramp components 111 also has a corresponding autonomous mobile robot (AMR) 120 and a transceiver 112, or is coupled to it. As described below, in various embodiments the transceiver 112 is part of the AMR 120 or coupled to it. In various embodiments, each AMR 120 is detachably attached to one of the ramp components 111 (in various embodiments below the ramp component 111, as shown in Figure 1). Fig. (1 shown) and controls and directs the movement, orientation, and nesting of the same based on instructions provided by the control system 108 and / or the control system 109 to generate the swarm ramp 110 and provide the ergonomic work area 204 for the persons 104. In various embodiments, the AMR 120 is also configured to raise and lower a corresponding ramp component 111 when instructed by one or more control systems 300, thereby transferring the weight of the vehicle 102 onto the ramp component 111 and not onto the AMR 120.

[0047] Referring to Fig. 4 is an example AMR 120 made of Fig. 1 in accordance with an exemplary embodiment. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 4, the AMR 120 comprises one or more sensors 402 together with a transceiver 404, a processor 406, and a memory 408. In certain embodiments, the sensors 402 comprise one or more cameras or detection sensors (for example, lidar, radar, sonar, ultrasonic sensors, or the like) configured to receive sensor data about the ramp component 111 and its movement and orientation with other ramp components 111 and / or the vehicle 102. In certain embodiments, the sensors 402 are part of the AMR 120, while in other embodiments, the sensors 402 are coupled to the AMR 120.

[0048] With continued reference to Fig. 4 corresponds to the transceiver 404 in various embodiments, one or more of the transceivers 112 of Fig. 1. In various embodiments, the transceiver 404 is used for communication with the other transceivers 112 by Fig. 1 is used, including for sending and receiving data between the various components of the system 100. In certain embodiments, the transceiver 404 is part of the AMR 120, while in other embodiments the transceiver 404 is coupled with the AMR 120.

[0049] In various embodiments, the processor 406 performs the calculation and control functions of the AMR 120 and can comprise any type of processor or multiple processors, individual integrated circuits such as a microprocessor, or any number of integrated circuits and / or printed circuit boards working together to perform the functions of a processing unit (for example, similar to the processor 308 described above in Fig. 3).

[0050] In various embodiments, the memory 408 can be any type of suitable memory. In various embodiments, the memory 408 comprises a non-volatile, computer-readable storage medium. In certain examples, the memory 408 can be composed of Fig. 4, similar to the 310 memory from Fig. 3. Information such as biometric information about the persons 104 of Fig. 1 and Fig. 2 as well as stored information about manufacturing requirements for vehicle 102 and so on.

[0051] Referring to Fig. Figure 5 presents a flowchart for a method 500 for controlling the manufacturing of a vehicle using an ergonomic swarm ramp with autonomous robot components according to exemplary embodiments. According to various embodiments, the method 500 can be used in conjunction with the system 100 of Fig. 1, the work environment 200 of Fig. 2, the control system 300 of Fig. 3 and the AMRs 120, as in Fig. 4, as shown, can be implemented according to exemplary embodiments. In addition, the method 500 is also used in connection with the Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B, Fig. 6C and Fig. 6D described, in which exemplary implementations according to exemplary embodiments are shown.

[0052] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 5, the method 500 begins in various embodiments at 502. In various embodiments, the method 500 begins when a vehicle (for example, vehicle 102 of Fig. 1) in a manufacturing plant (for example, the one operated by Fig. 1) can be completed.

[0053] In various embodiments, wireless communication is initiated (step 504). In particular, in various embodiments, wireless communications are initiated and established between the various components of System 100. Fig. 1 carried out, including the control center 106, the vehicle 102 and the biometric identification device 116 of Fig. 1, to confirm the manufacturing process to be carried out for vehicle 102 (for example, at this particular location of the manufacturing plant).

[0054] In various embodiments, one or more operators also have an interface with the biometric identification device 116. In particular, in certain embodiments, one or more of the persons 104 from Fig. 1 (for example, those who help in the manufacture of the vehicle 102) an interface with the biometric identification device 116 from Fig. 1, to provide her with biometric information, such as the size of the operator 104 and preferred body characteristics in relation to the manufacturing plant and / or in relation to the plant environment (HMI).

[0055] In various embodiments, a determination is made as to whether a change of operator has taken place (step 506). In particular, in various embodiments, one or more processors (such as processor 308 in Fig. 3) determines whether one or more of the persons 104 involved in the manufacture of the vehicle 102 (for example, at a particular location, such as a particular cell, room or station of the manufacturing plant) have changed (for example, by one or more new persons 104 replacing one or more of the previous persons 104).

[0056] In various embodiments, if step 506 determines that an operator change has occurred, the process returns to step 504 when the new operator(s) establish an interface with the biometric identification device 116, and biometric information about the new operator(s) is obtained in a new iteration of step 504.

[0057] Once it is determined during an iteration of step 506 that no operator change has occurred (for example, that the biometric information has now been obtained for the current operators), the process continues with step 508. In various embodiments, step 508 determines whether an architectural change has occurred. In particular, in various embodiments, one or more processors (such as the 308 processor of Fig. 3) determine whether the manufacturing requirements for the vehicle 102 and / or the equipment to be used (for example, the division of labor in the manufacturing operation at the respective location, such as the respective cell, room or station of the manufacturing plant) have changed.

[0058] In various embodiments, the process returns to step 504 when step 508 determines that an architecture change has occurred, because new information is obtained in a new iteration of step 504 (for example, regarding the operators' preferences with respect to the new architecture).

[0059] If, during an iteration of step 508, it is determined that no change to the architecture has occurred (for example, that the information has now been obtained for the current architecture), the process proceeds to step 510, which is described directly below.

[0060] In various embodiments, step 510 determines whether a swarm ramp is required. In various embodiments, during step 510, one or more processors (for example, processor 308 of Fig. 3) determines whether a swarm ramp is required for the current operators to perform the current manufacturing tasks within the ergonomic work area 204 of Fig. 2 to be carried out, taking into account the height and / or other biometric information of the current operators and the manufacturing work required for vehicle 102 at the current location.

[0061] In various embodiments, if step 510 determines that no swarm ramp is needed, the process proceeds to step 512, in which no swarm ramp is created. Specifically, during step 512, the one or more processors do not issue instructions to create a swarm ramp. In certain embodiments, the method then terminates at step 524.

[0062] If, however, step 510 determines that a swarm ramp is required, various embodiments proceed to step 512 instead. In various embodiments, the environmental requirements are determined in step 512. In particular, in various embodiments, one or more processors (such as the 308 processor of Fig. 3) the environmental requirements for the swarm ramp that are necessary to achieve the ergonomic working area 204 for the persons 104.

[0063] In various embodiments, the environmental requirements for the swarm ramp include, for example, the operating length, height, width, number of units, types of lead units, types of follower units, types of end units, and so on for the ramp components 111 of the swarm ramp 110. Fig. 1.

[0064] In certain embodiments, this can look like this, for example: (i) one or more guide units can comprise one or more ramp components 111 that initiate or guide the journey to the desired location (and constitute a beginning of the swarm ramp 110); (ii) one or more follower units comprise one or more ramp components 111 that follow behind the guide units and line up behind them when the swarm ramp 110 is assembled; and (iii) one or more end units comprise one or more ramp components 111 that follow behind the follower units and line up behind them (and constitute an end of the swarm ramp 110) when the swarm ramp 110 is assembled. In certain embodiments, the follower units can form or correspond to the flat platform 113, while the guide units and the end units form the front and rear platforms, respectively.rear slopes 115 form or correspond to them; however, this may vary in other embodiments.

[0065] In various embodiments, further wireless communications are also carried out (step 514). In particular, in various embodiments, wireless communications are carried out with respect to the various components of System 100. Fig. 1 via the transceivers 112 and the communication network 114 of Fig. 1, including with regard to the availability of the swarm ramp, the current location of the ramp components 111 and / or other system components, the swarm ramp assembly time, communications between the control center 106, the vehicle 102, the biometric identification device 116 and the ramp components 111 and / or associated AMRs 120. In various embodiments, the communications of step 514 also include communications and an associated algorithm (for example, retrieved from memory 310 by Fig. 3) to plan and determine a route for the ramp components 111 to the desired location and to calculate the time required to arrive at the desired location where the ramp components 111 are to meet, align, and nest to form the swarm ramp 110 (for example, at a nesting destination), in accordance with an applicable transmission window for the assembly manufacturing process. In various embodiments, an optimized route for the movement of the ramp units is calculated based on the time span and transmission window of the process.

[0066] In various embodiments, the swarm ramp is configured based on a number of factors, including: the height of one or more individuals based on biometric information; a division of labor in the manufacturing process based on operational requirements; and a number of other factors, which in various embodiments may include an operating length, an operating height, a number of ramp components, and designated lead ramp components, trailing ramp components, and end ramp components (for example, as in the Fig. 6A-6D shown and described below).

[0067] In various embodiments, it is determined whether the current situation is acceptable (step 516). In particular, in various embodiments, one or more processors (for example, the 308 processor in Fig. 3) determines whether, in view of the calculated travel time and other conditions, the ramp components 111 are expected to be able to travel to the desired location within the allocated time period (for example, over the transmission window) and align and assemble themselves into the required swarm ramp 110 that meets the manufacturing and ergonomic requirements.

[0068] If it is determined that the current situation is unacceptable, the procedure proceeds to step 518 in various embodiments. In various embodiments, one or more modifications are made in step 518 to resolve the problems with the current situation. In particular, in certain embodiments, one or more processors (such as the 308 processor of Fig. 3) the problems by providing instructions for making changes to the operators 104 and / or the manufacturing location and / or the requirements, such as by changing one or more algorithm variables (for example, by changing the operators, the locations, the installation sequence, the manufacturing components, and / or by one or more other changes) in a manner that provides the least disruptive solution possible under the given circumstances. In certain embodiments, if biometric results from different operators result in a unique height adjustment, the control system 300 calculates the best adjustment and makes the adjustment accordingly.In various embodiments, the procedure then returns in a new iteration to the aforementioned step 514, and steps 514-518 are repeated in new iterations until, during an iteration of step 516, it is determined that the current situation is acceptable.

[0069] In various embodiments, once it is determined in step 516 that the current situation is acceptable, step 520 is proceeded, in which the ramp components move to their destination location. In certain embodiments, the ramp components 111 (for example, individual swarm ramps or components) move to a pre-stage location so that the ramp components 111 can assemble and nest together in order to then move as one large unit (that is, as a combined swarm ramp 110) to the location where the manufacturing process is to take place, in accordance with instructions issued by one or more processors, such as processor 308 in Fig. 3. Alternatively, in certain embodiments, the ramp components 111 can each move individually to the location where the manufacturing process is to take place and then move according to the instructions of one or more processors, such as processor 308 of Fig. 3, assemble and nest to form swarm ramp 110 at this location.

[0070] In various embodiments, the swarm ramp is used to manufacture the vehicle (step 522). In particular, in various embodiments, the swarm ramp 110 is generated by nesting the ramp components 111, and the vehicle 102 is driven up the swarm ramp 110. In various embodiments, this is done in accordance with instructions issued by one or more processors, such as the processor 308 of Fig. 3. Also in various embodiments, the operators (for example, persons 104), while the vehicle 102 is on the flat platform 113 of the swarm ramp 110, perform their assembly and / or manufacturing tasks while working with the ergonomic workspace 204, which has been tailored to the specific biometric information of persons 104 and to the specific manufacturing requirements for the vehicle 102 (for example, including operational requirements that involve a division of labor for the manufacturing operation). In various embodiments, the method then ends at 524.

[0071] In various embodiments, the AMRs 120 are used throughout the entire process 500 described above for communication, movement, securing the factory floor, and other tasks. In various embodiments, the AMRs 120 have the capability for vertical movement to allow the ramp components 111 to lock and to ensure that the ramp components 111 transfer the weight of the vehicle 102 to the floor and to the AMRs 120 (for example, to protect the AMRs 120 from damage).

[0072] With reference to Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B, Fig. 6C and Fig. 6D will show different implementations for the 500 procedure. Fig. 5 provided, including the nesting of the ramp components 111 that are used in conjunction with it.

[0073] First, with reference to Fig. 6A shows a first representation 600 relating to an ideal swarm ramp shape 601 according to an exemplary embodiment. As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6A, the ideal swarm ramp shape 601, in one exemplary embodiment, comprises a first area 602 with an incline that allows the vehicle 102 to drive upwards onto the swarm ramp, a second area 603 that allows the vehicle 102 to rest on a level surface for manufacturing, and a third area 604 that allows the vehicle 102 to drive downwards from the swarm ramp. In various embodiments, the ideal swarm ramp shape 601 is designed based on a working reference height and a model of the vehicle 102. In various embodiments, the length 605 of the ideal swarm ramp shape 601 depends on the wheelbase of the vehicle 102, while the height 606 of the vehicle 102 depends on a reference height (for example, of the vehicle 102 and / or the operator 104).

[0074] In relation to Fig. Figure 6B provides a second illustration 610 relating to the nesting of the ramp components 111 according to an exemplary embodiment. In particular, as shown in Fig. Figure 6B shows that in various embodiments the ramp components 111 are nested within each other to form the ideal swarm ramp shape 601. Fig. 6A to approximate. Furthermore, as also in Fig. As shown in Figure 6B, in various embodiments the nesting is carried out such that the difference between the actual ramp shape of the resulting swarm ramp 110 and the ideal swarm ramp shape 601 with the available ramp components 111 is minimized. In various embodiments, this is done via one or more processors, such as the processor 308 of Fig. 3.

[0075] In relation to Fig. 6C presents a third representation 620 regarding a retrieval sequence of the ramp components 111 and the assignment of AMRs 120 to the ramp components 111. In particular, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 6C, in various embodiments each ramp component 111 is positioned in the nested ramp configuration with a retrieval sequence assigned to a corresponding AMR 120. In various embodiments, the sequence for nesting the ramp components 111 can be determined based on a number of factors, for example, the height and width of the ramp components 111, as well as the vehicle dimensions, manufacturing requirements, and biometric information about the persons 104. In various embodiments, this is also performed by one or more processors, such as the processor 308 in Fig. 3, carried out. (for example, in an embodiment via the control center 106, as in Fig. 6C shown).

[0076] Accordingly, various embodiments, as described in Fig. 6C: (i) a first ramp component 111(1) is assigned a first position in the nested swarm ramp 110 and a first AMR 120(a); (ii) a second ramp component 111(2) is assigned a second position in the nested swarm ramp 110 and a second AMR 120(b); (iii) a third ramp component 111(3) is assigned a third position in the nested swarm ramp 110 and a third AMR 120(c); and (iv) a fourth ramp component 111(4) is assigned a fourth position in the nested swarm ramp 110 and a fourth AMR 120(d), and so on. While in Fig. Figure 6C shows four ramp components 111 and associated AMRs 120. In various embodiments, the swarm ramp 110 can comprise any number of ramp components 111 and associated AMRs 120.

[0077] A fourth representation 630 in Fig. Finally, 6D refers to the formation of an AMR swarm in accordance with exemplary embodiments. In particular, the AMRs 120 form, as in Fig. Figure 6D shows a swarm in various embodiments to receive, connect to, and ultimately control the respective ramp components 111 assigned to the respective AMRs 120. For example, as in Fig. As shown in Figure 6D, in an exemplary embodiment: (i) the first AMR 120(a) joins and connects to the first ramp component 111(1); (ii) the second AMR 120(b) joins and connects to the second ramp component 111(2); (iii) the third AMR 120(c) joins and connects to the third component 111(3); and (iv) the fourth AMR 120(d) joins and connects to the fourth ramp component 111(4), and so on. In various embodiments, each AMR 120 is configured to autonomously move its corresponding ramp components 111, including their movement path, nesting with other ramp components 111, and forming the swarm ramp 110 according to instructions provided by one or more processors.In certain embodiments, the AMR 120 can also be operated sequentially, so that the ramp components 111 can be assembled in a desired order in order to nest them to form the finished swarm ramp 110.

[0078] As in Fig. As shown in Figure 6D, each of the ramp components 111 in various embodiments also includes corresponding counterparts 635 configured to be joined together when the ramp components 111 form the swarm ramp 110. In various embodiments, the respective counterparts 635, for example, snap into one another when the ramp components 111 are joined to form the swarm ramp 110. In various embodiments, the connecting elements 635 provide a locking function with compliance in at least two axes between the interlocking ramp components 111, which, for example, enables connectivity and communication between the ramp components 111.

[0079] Accordingly, in various embodiments, methods and systems for controlling the manufacture of a vehicle using a swarm ramp with automated functionality are provided to create an ergonomic workspace for persons involved in the manufacturing process. In various embodiments, one or more processors issue instructions for creating a swarm ramp based on biometric information about one or more persons assisting in the manufacturing process, as well as the manufacturing requirements for the vehicle.In various embodiments, the swarm ramp is also formed via ramp components that are coupled with and controlled by appropriate autonomous mobile robots (AMRs), which autonomously move the ramp components to their suitable location and enable their nesting into a swarm ramp that provides a suitable ergonomic work area for the operators based on their biometric information and the manufacturing requirements for the vehicle.

[0080] It becomes clear that the systems, vehicles, methods, and implementations may differ from those depicted in the figures and described here. For example, the system may differ from 100 of Fig. 1 and its components and implementations, which are connected to the Fig. 2-4 are connected, varying in different embodiments. Similarly, the steps of method 500 of Fig. 5 and the implementations of Fig. 6A, Fig. 6B, Fig. 6C and Fig. 6D may differ from those shown in the figures and / or different steps may occur simultaneously and / or in a different order than shown in the figures.

[0081] Although at least one exemplary embodiment has been presented in the preceding detailed description, it should be understood that there are a number of variants. It should also be noted that the exemplary embodiment or embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure in any way. Rather, the preceding detailed description is intended to provide the person skilled in the art with a practical guide for implementing the exemplary embodiment or embodiments. It is understood that various modifications to the function and arrangement of the elements may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure as set forth in the appended claims and their statutory equivalents.

Claims

[1] Method comprising: Obtaining, via one or more sensors, biometric information about one or more persons who are to assist in the manufacture of a vehicle; Obtaining, via a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium, operational requirements for manufacturing the vehicle; and Providing instructions, via a processor, to create a swarm ramp on which to place the vehicle to create an ergonomic workspace for the one or more people, based on the biometric information and operational requirements. [2] The method of claim 1, wherein the swarm ramp comprises a plurality of ramp components and a plurality of autonomous mobile robots, AMRs, configured to be coupled to the ramp components, and the method further comprises: Forming the swarm ramp according to the instructions provided by the processor by automatically moving the ramp components into position and nesting the ramp components according to the instructions of the AMRs. [3] The method of claim 2, wherein the automated movement of the ramp components and the nesting of the ramp components with each other are performed at a pre-stage location and the swarm ramp then travels as a unit to a manufacturing location. [4] The method of claim 2, wherein the automated movement of the ramp components is performed separately for each of the ramp components until the ramp components reach a manufacturing location, and the nesting is then performed at the manufacturing location. [5] The method of claim 2, wherein the swarm ramp is configured at least in part based on the body size of the one or more persons based on the biometric information. [6] The method of claim 5, wherein the swarm ramp is also configured at least in part based on a division of labor of the manufacturing plant based on operational requirements. [7] The method of claim 6, wherein the swarm ramp is also configured based at least in part on an operating length, an operating altitude, a number of ramp components, and assigned lead ramp components, trail ramp components, and tail ramp components. [8] The method of claim 2, further comprising: Calculating, via the processor, a time period required for the ramp components to travel to a destination location for nesting; and Determine, via the processor, an optimized route for the travel of the ramp components based on the time period. [9] The method of claim 8, further comprising: Determining, via the processor, whether any problems exist with respect to a current situation for generating the swarm ramp, including based on the time period; and Providing a correction to one or more parameters for generating the swarm ramp, via the processor, when one or more problems are determined to be present. [10] System comprising: one or more sensors configured to obtain biometric information about one or more persons to assist in the manufacture of a vehicle; a non-transitory, computer-readable storage medium configured to store operational requirements for manufacturing the vehicle; and a processor configured to enable at least providing instructions for generating a swarm ramp on which to place the vehicle to create an ergonomic workspace for the one or more people based on the biometric information and the operational requirements.

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