AMR Resource Sharing Circuit for Task Offloading Under Battery Limits
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) face challenges in efficiently utilizing their limited resources such as processing power, battery capacity, and sensor capabilities, which restricts their ability to perform tasks effectively.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of task offloading mechanisms allows AMRs to share tasks dynamically, forming clusters with other intelligent agents to optimize resource utilization. This involves creating task profiles that specify available resource allowances and using protocols like ROS2 for communication and task allocation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If AMRs are equipped with greater array of functionalities to complete tasks faster and less expensively, then task completion efficiency is improved, but resource consumption (processing power, battery capacity, sensor utilization) increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the AMR system into multiple independent functional modules (navigation module, object detection module, task execution module, resource management module). Each module can be independently controlled and optimized, allowing the system to activate only the necessary modules for each specific task, thereby reducing overall resource consumption while maintaining task completion efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic resource allocation where the AMR adjusts its functionality and resource usage based on real-time task requirements and resource availability. The system can dynamically scale its operational complexity, activating higher-level functionalities only when resources permit, thus optimizing the balance between productivity and energy consumption.
2Power
If processors are selected with higher processing power to handle greater functionalities, then computational capability is improved, but overall price increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements partial action by selecting a processor with moderate processing power that handles only the essential functions required for basic AMR operation. Advanced functionalities are either omitted or implemented through software optimization and task offloading, avoiding the need for expensive high-power processors while maintaining adequate performance for core tasks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs a universal processor architecture that can handle multiple different functionalities through software configuration rather than requiring specialized hardware for each function. This multi-functional approach allows a single moderately-powered processor to perform various tasks (navigation, detection, communication, control) that would otherwise require multiple specialized components, reducing overall system cost.
3Volume of moving object
If AMRs are miniaturized to reduce form factor, then space utilization is improved, but battery power and longevity are negatively affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs nested doll principle by integrating the battery into the internal structure of the AMR chassis, placing it within the hollow spaces and structural voids of the frame. This nested arrangement maximizes space utilization, allowing a larger battery capacity to be fitted within a compact form factor, thereby extending battery longevity without increasing external dimensions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes thin-film battery technology and flexible battery structures that can be conformally integrated into the AMR's body contours. These thin-film batteries provide high energy density in a minimal thickness, enabling extended battery life while maintaining a small form factor, as the flexible structure can adapt to available internal spaces efficiently.
4Ease of manufacture
If AMRs operate with limited resources, then cost is reduced, but ability to perform tasks effectively is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a resource management intermediary layer that mediates between limited hardware resources and task requirements. This software intermediary optimizes resource allocation, prioritizes critical functions, and implements intelligent task scheduling to ensure that limited resources are used most effectively, maintaining reliable task performance despite hardware constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by dynamically adjusting operational parameters (processing speed, sensor sampling rates, communication bandwidth) based on available resources and task urgency. When resources are limited, the system changes parameters to reduce consumption while maintaining acceptable performance levels, ensuring reliable task completion within resource constraints.
Data Source
AI summary
A robot including a resource sharing circuit, configured to operate according to a resource utilization limit, and comprising a processor, configured to receive resource data representing a resource utilization of the robot; if the resource utilization of the robot is within a predetermined range, operate according to a first operational mode, wherein an upper limit of the predetermined range is defined by a tolerance relative to the resource utilization limit; if the resource utilization of the robot is outside of the predetermined range, operate according to a second operational mode; wherein the first operational mode includes controlling a communication circuit to send a first wireless signal representing an availability to accept a task; and wherein the second operational mode includes controlling the communication circuit to send a second wireless signal representing an availability to allocate a task to an external device for remote processing.