Multi-Target Trajectory Control for Collision-Free 3D Routing
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for directing multiple targets or objects simultaneously in two- or three-dimensional space without experiencing interference among the objects and/or with obstacles, particularly in manufacturing, warehousing, and transportation settings where congestion and collision risks are high.
Innovation Solution
The development of a universal trajectory calculator and director (UTCD) system that calculates non-interfering trajectories for multiple targets using polynomial equations and optimization algorithms, ensuring safe and efficient movement by avoiding collisions with other targets and obstacles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple targets are directed simultaneously in congested spaces to maximize resource utilization, then productivity and space utilization are improved, but the risk of collision and interference among targets increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the three-dimensional space into multiple two-dimensional planes at different heights. Each drone operates within its assigned plane, effectively dividing the congested three-dimensional environment into less congested two-dimensional zones. This segmentation reduces interference and collision risks while maintaining high productivity by allowing simultaneous operations across multiple planes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional trajectory planning to three-dimensional space utilization by introducing vertical planes at different heights. Drones are assigned to specific planes based on their departure and destination coordinates, allowing simultaneous operations without interference. This dimensionality change enables increased productivity while maintaining safety by exploiting the vertical dimension to separate drone paths.
2Area of stationary object
If drones are used to utilize space above the factory floor, then space utilization is improved, but collision with other drones and objects may occur if not directed properly
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the three-dimensional space into multiple two-dimensional planes at different vertical heights. Each drone is assigned to a specific plane, creating segregated operational zones that prevent collisions. This segmentation allows maximum space utilization while ensuring safety by preventing drones from occupying the same spatial zone simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The UTCD system acts as an intermediary that calculates and assigns specific planes to each drone based on departure and destination coordinates. This intermediary planning layer ensures that drones operate in non-interfering planes, preventing collisions with both other drones and stationary objects while maximizing the use of available three-dimensional space.
3Loss of energy
If trajectory optimization is performed to minimize path length, then operational cost is reduced, but trajectory calculation complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the three-dimensional trajectory problem into two-dimensional plane selections. By first determining the optimal plane based on departure and destination coordinates, then calculating trajectories within that plane, the calculation complexity is reduced compared to optimizing full three-dimensional paths. This segmentation enables efficient computation while still achieving energy-optimal routes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a vertical dimension to create multiple two-dimensional planes, transforming a complex three-dimensional trajectory optimization problem into a simpler two-dimensional problem within each plane. This dimensionality change reduces calculation complexity by constraining drones to specific planes, while still achieving optimal paths within those planes for energy efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
Universal Trajectory Calculators and Directors (UTCD) of the present disclosure may include a UTCD application running on a network that includes a desktop computer or mobile device and one or more servers. The UTCD application calculates trajectories and directs multiple targets or objects simultaneously along those calculated trajectories in two- or three-dimensional space without experiencing interference among the targets and/or with obstacles.