Order Work Grouping for Multi-Robot Logistics Allocation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current logistics automation technologies using unmanned transfer robots are often specific to particular distribution systems, making them difficult to apply universally, and their efficiency is limited by a 1:1 mapping between robots and tasks, resulting in slow work speeds and low efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that acquire order information, generate and group tasks based on attributes, and allocate them to robots based on work quotas and locations, allowing for flexible assignment and optimization of tasks across various distribution systems without requiring significant design changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If 1:1 mapping between unmanned transfer robot and work is used, then task assignment is simple, but work speed is slow and work efficiency is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple works into a work group that can be assigned to a single unmanned transfer robot. Instead of assigning one work at a time to one robot, the system consolidates multiple tasks (picking, transporting, delivering multiple items) into a grouped work unit, allowing robots to process multiple items in sequence without returning to base, thereby improving work efficiency while maintaining manageable assignment complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic work grouping where the system continuously monitors work station loads and dynamically adjusts work group compositions. When a work station's load exceeds a threshold, the system automatically regroups works and reassigns them to different robots, enabling adaptive optimization of work efficiency without requiring complex static assignment rules
2Productivity
If logistics automation technology is optimized for specific distribution systems, then performance in that system is improved, but applicability to other distribution systems is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal work grouping methodology that can be applied across different distribution systems. The system uses generic parameters (work station load thresholds, item attributes, robot capabilities) that can be configured for any distribution system without requiring fundamental redesign. The work grouping logic and load balancing mechanism are system-agnostic, enabling the same core technology to optimize performance in diverse logistics environments
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter-based configuration where distribution system-specific characteristics are captured through adjustable parameters (e.g., work threshold values, item priority weights, robot speed parameters). By changing these parameters rather than the core algorithm, the system adapts to different distribution systems while maintaining the same underlying optimization logic, thus achieving both performance optimization and broad applicability
Data Source
AI summary
A method for processing an item order is provided, which is performed by one or more processors and includes acquiring order information including a plurality of item orders, generating a plurality of works based on the order information, setting a work group including some or all of the plurality of generated works, and setting a group field including a work attribute in the work group.