Map Data Sharing for Automated Industrial Vehicles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing navigation systems for automated industrial vehicles face challenges in sharing map data effectively due to limitations in sensor measurements and the need for human intervention in warehouses, which can lead to inefficiencies and safety concerns.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for processing local map data from multiple industrial vehicles to generate global map data, allowing for improved navigation by combining feature information and sharing updates across vehicles, utilizing a network of mobile and central computers with sensor arrays to enhance navigation accuracy and safety.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If automated industrial vehicles use local sensor data only for navigation, then each vehicle can navigate autonomously, but the navigation accuracy is limited by sensor field of view and range
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines local sensor data from multiple automated vehicles to create a global map, merging individual vehicle perspectives into a comprehensive environmental model that provides better navigation accuracy for all vehicles
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces a central server as an intermediary that collects, processes, and distributes global map data to vehicles, acting as a mediator that transforms limited local sensor data into enhanced navigation information
2Productivity
If more forklifts and drivers are added to increase productivity, then task completion speed increases, but safety risks and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated industrial vehicles perform tasks autonomously using the global map for navigation, eliminating the need for human drivers and thereby removing safety risks associated with human operation of heavy machinery
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces human-operated mechanical forklifts with automated vehicles that use sensor data and global mapping for navigation, substituting human control with automated systems that reduce safety hazards
3Adaptability or versatility
If human workers operate industrial vehicles in warehouses, then flexibility and adaptability are maintained, but safety concerns and labor costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated vehicles autonomously navigate and perform tasks using global map data, eliminating human involvement in dangerous operations while maintaining operational flexibility through programmable control
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and apparatus for sharing map data between industrial vehicles in a physical environment is described. In one embodiment, the method includes processing local map data associated with a plurality of industrial vehicles, wherein the local map data comprises feature information generated by the plurality of industrial vehicles regarding features observed by industrial vehicles in the plurality of vehicles; combining the feature information associated with local map data to generate global map data for the physical environment; and navigating an industrial vehicle of the plurality of industrial vehicles using at least a portion of the global map data.