Multi-Robot Cleaning System with Hierarchy-Based Task Coordination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cleaning systems lack the ability to perform multiple cleaning tasks in a coordinated and automated manner, often requiring human intervention and are insufficient for large, complex areas.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a plurality of cleaning apparatus capable of performing various cleaning actions, connected to a processor unit that determines a hierarchy state and generates a cleaning operation plan, allowing for coordinated and automated execution of tasks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cleaning machines are deployed for performing different cleaning actions, then the cleaning capability is improved, but the coordination and automation level deteriorates due to lack of integrated control
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple cleaning machines with different functions (sweeping, vacuuming, scrubbing, mopping) into a single integrated cleaning robot system. The controller unit coordinates all cleaning components, enabling the robot to perform multiple cleaning actions sequentially or simultaneously without requiring multiple separate machines, thus achieving both versatility and automation.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning robot is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple cleaning functions through interchangeable or simultaneously operable components. The robot includes sweeping brushes, vacuuming mechanisms, scrubbing pads, and mopping elements, all controlled by a single controller unit that can execute different cleaning protocols based on the floor type and contamination level.
2Device complexity
If a single cleaning machine performs one task at a time, then the device complexity is reduced, but the productivity deteriorates due to inability to handle large complex areas efficiently
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple cleaning functions into a single robot platform, allowing it to handle diverse cleaning tasks in large complex areas without requiring multiple specialized machines. The integrated design enables the robot to transition between sweeping, vacuuming, scrubbing, and mopping modes within the same operational cycle, significantly improving productivity for comprehensive cleaning scenarios.
3Reliability
If human intervention is used to perform tasks that cleaning machines cannot complete, then the cleaning completeness is improved, but the extent of automation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The robot is designed with universal cleaning capabilities that cover the full spectrum of common cleaning tasks through its multiple functional components. The controller unit is programmed to autonomously determine the appropriate cleaning method for different surface types and contamination levels, eliminating the need for human intervention while maintaining complete cleaning effectiveness.
Solution Approach 2:
The cleaning robot operates autonomously without human assistance, making decisions about which cleaning function to apply based on sensor input and pre-programmed logic. The system self-manages the coordination of its various cleaning components, navigating the environment and adapting its cleaning strategy without human intervention, thus achieving both completeness and high automation.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a system for performing a designated cleaning task. The system comprises a plurality of cleaning apparatus, and at least one of the plurality of cleaning apparatus is communicatively connected with a processor unit, wherein the processor unit comprises a hierarchy generation module for determining a hierarchy state of each of the registered cleaning apparatus; a task planning module for generating a cleaning operation plan based on the hierarchy state assigned to each of the registered cleaning apparatus; and a task execution module for transmitting a command to execute the cleaning operation plan. The present disclosure also relates to a cleaning apparatus for use with the cooperative cleaning system. The present disclosure also relates to a system for performing a designated task using a plurality of task specific devices by generating device-specific control command for each of the devices based on a high-level control command.