AMR Step Framework for Simpler Material Flow Configuration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for configuring autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) in material flow automation require users to create complex 'if this then that' rules, which are time-consuming, error-prone, and difficult to understand, especially for users unfamiliar with the technology, leading to prolonged deployment times and increased system errors.
Innovation Solution
A framework that allows users to create jobs by defining a series of steps with 'Go here' and 'Do this' instructions, using a trigger section and location groups, enabling flexible and user-configurable control of AMRs with minimal technical complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If users create complex 'if this then that' rules to control AMRs, then the system provides precise control and automation capability, but the configuration becomes time-consuming, error-prone, and difficult to understand
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex control logic into discrete, predefined steps that users can select and sequence. Instead of requiring users to write complex conditional rules, the system breaks down material movement tasks into atomic operations (e.g., navigate to location, pick object, place object) that can be combined through simple sequencing, thereby reducing configuration complexity while maintaining automation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer between the user and the AMR control system. This intermediary consists of predefined step templates and a visual workflow editor that translates high-level user intentions into detailed control instructions. The intermediary abstracts away the complexity of low-level control logic while preserving the ability to achieve precise automated control.
2Extent of automation
If users create complex 'if this then that' rules to control AMRs, then the system provides precise control capability, but deployment time is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by pre-defining common control patterns and step templates that can be reused across different workflows. Frequently used operations are captured as standardized templates, allowing users to quickly assemble new workflows by selecting and parameterizing existing templates rather than creating control logic from scratch, thereby significantly reducing deployment time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables copying and reusing of predefined step templates and workflow patterns. Once a workflow pattern is established, it can be copied and adapted for similar tasks, eliminating the need to recreate control logic repeatedly and accelerating the deployment process while maintaining consistent automation quality.
3Extent of automation
If users create complex 'if this then that' rules to control AMRs, then the system provides detailed control logic, but the system becomes difficult to understand for users unfamiliar with the technology
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses simple, standardized step templates that can be easily created, modified, and discarded without significant investment of time or expertise. Each step is a self-contained, easily understandable unit with clear parameters, allowing users to configure workflows using intuitive, low-barrier components rather than complex programming constructs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs visual indicators and color-coding in the user interface to represent different step types, states, and properties. This visual representation makes the workflow structure immediately recognizable and understandable, allowing users to grasp the control logic at a glance without needing to parse complex textual rules or understand underlying technical implementations.
4Productivity
If users create complex 'if this then that' rules to control AMRs, then the system achieves material flow automation, but system errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service through automated validation and error checking mechanisms that operate within the step configuration process. The system automatically checks for logical errors, conflicts, and inconsistencies in the configured workflow, providing immediate feedback and preventing erroneous configurations from being deployed. This self-validation reduces system errors while maintaining material flow automation capability.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are provided that provides a framework for modeling repeatable tasks for robots, such as AMRs, to complete. Using the framework, jobs may be built using a software tool that allows users to create a series of steps that the robot will perform. Each step includes two elements: location and task, which may be presented by a processor to a user interface, allowing a user to fill in a location and task. By combining steps, an unlimited number of material flows may be created.