AMR Job Configuration Plain-Language Summaries for Error Prevention

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Solution Overview

Problem

Configuring a fleet of autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) to perform work optimally is complex and often results in undesired or dangerous behavior due to incorrect configuration, making it difficult for users to review and understand configuration instructions.

Innovation Solution

A system that includes a processor to identify and translate configuration details into plain language descriptions, displayed through a graphical user interface, allowing users to confirm correct interpretation and avoid mistakes in configuring robotic material flow jobs.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Manufacturing precision

If configuration instructions are provided in technical format, then configuration precision is improved, but user comprehension deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveconfiguration precisionVSAvoiduser comprehension
Core Design Contradiction:
Manufacturing precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces an intermediary translation layer that converts technical configuration data into plain language summaries. The processor generates both structured configuration data and human-readable descriptions, acting as a mediator between the technical system and the user to resolve the comprehension barrier while preserving configuration precision.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The configuration information is segmented into two distinct representations: structured technical data for precise configuration and separate plain language summaries for user comprehension. This segmentation allows each representation to serve its specific purpose without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

2Ease of operation

If configuration details are simplified for understanding, then user comprehension is improved, but configuration precision deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser comprehensionVSAvoidconfiguration precision
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system maintains the structured technical configuration data as the authoritative source for precision while using plain language summaries merely as explanatory intermediaries. The translation layer does not alter the original configuration data, ensuring precision is preserved while enhancing comprehension.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a copy of the configuration information in plain language format for user display, while the original structured configuration data remains intact and unchanged. This copying approach allows simplified representation without losing the precision of the technical specifications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Ease of operation

If plain language summaries are provided, then user comprehension is improved, but information completeness deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser comprehensionVSAvoidinformation completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The information is segmented into comprehensive structured data for complete information storage and simplified plain language summaries for user comprehension. The segmentation ensures that no information is lost in the original data structure while providing an accessible summary view for users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The plain language summaries are generated as copies or derivations of the complete configuration data, not replacements. The original comprehensive data remains available in the system, ensuring information completeness is maintained while providing simplified access points for users.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Data Source

PatentUS20240184269A1Generation of "plain language" descriptions summary of automation logic
Publication Date: 2024.06.06 SEEGRID CORP
  • US20240184269A1 patent drawing
  • US20240184269A1 patent drawing
  • US20240184269A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system, comprising at least one autonomous mobile robot (AMR); and a management system comprising at least one processor configured to: identify one or more configuration details; and translate the one or more configuration details into one or more plain language descriptions. The system and method may also provide the one or more plain language summaries of job configuration details to a user, via a display.