Multi-Operator Robot Control System with Automatic Vehicle Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robot control systems face challenges in efficiently managing and controlling a large fleet of robotic vehicles, particularly in agricultural applications, where a single operator may struggle to coordinate multiple robots, and existing systems can lead to confusion regarding operator assignments.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising an autonomy module, interface communication module, graphical user interface, short-range network, and long-range network that allows operators to bind and unbind robotic vehicles, enabling autonomous mission execution and efficient fleet management by determining vehicle states and assigning tasks based on availability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single operator controls multiple robots, then the number of robots per operator increases, but the difficulty of controlling and tracking robot assignments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines and displays robot availability states and operator assignments without requiring manual tracking by operators. The control system self-updates the interface to reflect current robot states, eliminating the need for operators to mentally track multiple robots and their assignments.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical user interface provides real-time feedback to operators about which robots are available, which are assigned, and to whom they are assigned. This continuous feedback loop allows operators to easily monitor and manage robot assignments without cognitive burden.
2Productivity
If multiple operators control a fleet of robots, then the total control capacity increases, but confusion regarding operator assignments increases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system acts as an intermediary that manages and displays operator-robot assignments. The system maintains and communicates the state of which operator controls which robot, preventing confusion by providing a single source of truth for all assignments.
Solution Approach 2:
The graphical user interface serves multiple functions: it displays robot availability, shows operator assignments, allows operators to select and control robots, and updates automatically when states change. This multi-functional interface consolidates all assignment information in one place, eliminating confusion.
3Measurement precision
If operators manually track available robots, then control accuracy increases, but the mental burden on operators increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically determines robot availability states and updates the interface without requiring operator intervention for tracking. The control system performs the tracking function itself, providing accurate information while eliminating the mental burden from operators.
Solution Approach 2:
The manual cognitive process of tracking robot states is replaced by an automated electronic system. The control system uses sensors, communication networks, and software to automatically determine and display robot availability, replacing the operator's mental tracking mechanism with an automated electronic tracking system.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of controlling a plurality of robotic vehicles may involve the steps of: Determining a state of each of the plurality of robotic vehicles; assigning a robotic vehicle to an operator in response to a Binding command from the operator; allowing the operator to command the assigned robotic vehicle to perform a mission; and releasing the assigned robotic vehicle in response to an Unbinding command from the operator.