Workflow Creation Using Nested Behavior Trees and Functional Blocks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Behavior tree models and functional block models are unable to directly cooperate, requiring time-consuming and complicated conversion processes to integrate them, hindering efficient workflow creation.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that allow direct integration of behavior tree models and functional block models by nesting one into the other, enabling seamless cooperation through a graphical user interface, facilitating rapid workflow creation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If behavior tree models and functional block models are integrated through conversion processes, then the two different systems can cooperate, but the integration process becomes very time-consuming and complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nesting by allowing behavior tree nodes to be contained within functional block models and vice versa. Specifically, behavior tree nodes can be nested as sub-elements within functional blocks, while functional blocks can be nested within behavior tree nodes. This nested structure enables direct integration without conversion, as each model type can operate within the other's framework, resolving the technical contradiction by eliminating the time-consuming conversion process while maintaining full cooperability between the two systems
2Adaptability or versatility
If behavior tree models and functional block models are integrated through conversion processes, then the two different systems can cooperate, but the integration process becomes complicated
Solution Approach 1:
The nesting mechanism simplifies integration complexity by establishing a hierarchical relationship where behavior tree nodes and functional blocks can contain each other. This eliminates the need for complex conversion logic, as the nested structures naturally handle interoperability through defined interaction rules. The patent reduces integration complexity by allowing direct embedding of one model type within another, with standardized interfaces for event triggering and signal passing
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements universality by creating a unified workflow model that can accommodate both behavior tree and functional block models in the same system. The workflow model serves multiple functions: it can contain behavior tree nodes, functional blocks, or both simultaneously; it handles event triggering and signal propagation uniformly regardless of model type; and it enables collaboration between OT engineers (who use functional blocks) and machine learning programmers (who use behavior trees) without requiring separate integration processes
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the teachings herein include a workflow creation method. Some examples include: receiving an operation performed by a user on a GUI constructing a functional block model; receiving an operation performed by the user including nesting a behavior tree into a second functional block, wherein the behavior tree defines an operation for a first workcell, and the functional block model defines an operation for a second workcell; in response to a first functional block in the functional block model triggering an input event of the second functional block, then the second functional block triggers an execution signal to a root node in the behavior tree at a preset frequency, so the behavior tree starts execution from the root node and outputs an execution result; the second functional block triggers a corresponding output event according to the execution result; and generating an instance of the functional block model.