Multi-Robot Coordination Mechanism for Sequenced Task Execution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic systems lack the sophistication to coordinate complex tasks and interactions between multiple robots, often requiring human intervention to manage operations and interactions, especially in executing larger or more complex tasks.
Innovation Solution
A robotic system that autonomously coordinates and controls interactions between multiple units by identifying operating zones, paths, transition locations, and timings, using algorithms and protocols to sequence tasks and reduce human assistance, incorporating sensors and imaging devices for object detection and motion planning.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple robots are used to execute complex tasks, then productivity and capability are improved, but coordination complexity and human intervention requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
A coordination mechanism acts as an intermediary between multiple robotic units, managing their interactions and task sequencing. This mediator coordinates operating zones, paths, and timings between units without requiring direct human intervention, resolving the contradiction by automating the coordination function that would otherwise increase complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments complex tasks into discrete sub-tasks that can be assigned to different robotic units with specific operating zones. By dividing the overall task into manageable segments with defined boundaries and transition points, the system manages coordination complexity while maintaining high productivity through parallel execution.
2Reliability
If human intervention is used to coordinate robot interactions, then task execution reliability is improved, but automation level and efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The coordination mechanism enables robotic units to autonomously manage their own interactions and task execution. Each unit can independently determine its operating zone, plan its path, and execute tasks with proper sequencing, eliminating the need for continuous human supervision while maintaining reliable task completion through automated coordination protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where robotic units report their status, position, and task completion to the coordination mechanism. This feedback loop enables automated adjustment and coordination of multiple units, ensuring reliable task execution while maintaining high automation levels without human intervention.
3Ease of operation
If robotic units operate autonomously without coordination, then ease of operation is improved, but task integration and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The coordination mechanism provides universal functionality that manages multiple robotic units through a common protocol and interface. This multi-functional coordination system handles task assignment, path planning, and interaction management across different unit types, maintaining operational simplicity while enabling efficient integrated task execution through standardized coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for operating a robotic system to coordinate and integrate multiple tasks for performing operations is disclosed. The robotic system may identify a set of tasks associated with a triggered operation. Accordingly, the robotic system may coordinate and control actions across subsystems, robotic units, task stations, or a combination thereof to sequentially perform the set of tasks and complete the operation.