Robotic Assistant Handoff Using Nearby Devices for Moving Users
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing automated assistants are often static devices that cannot effectively communicate or perform tasks when the user is in motion, leading to inefficiencies and resource wastage, especially in multi-assistant environments where suitable devices may not be utilized.
Innovation Solution
A robotic computing device that can interact with nearby devices, using techniques similar to human interactions, to delegate tasks and gather information, thereby enhancing the ability to perform tasks efficiently and effectively across different locations within a home.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a static assistant device is used to execute tasks, then the device structure is simple and easy to deploy, but the device cannot effectively serve users when they move to different locations
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the assistant functionality across multiple devices. Instead of one complex mobile assistant, the patent divides the assistant capabilities into static devices (speakers, displays) that remain in fixed locations throughout the home, providing coverage as users move between rooms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a network and communication protocols as intermediaries between static assistant devices and mobile users. The network mediates task delegation and coordination, allowing static devices to work together to serve moving users without requiring each device to be mobile.
2Productivity
If the default assistant device executes a task, then the task execution is straightforward, but resources are wasted when more suitable devices are available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic task delegation where the system continuously evaluates which assistant device is most suitable for each task based on current conditions. Devices can dynamically assume or relinquish task ownership based on factors like proximity to user, available capabilities, and current workload, optimizing resource utilization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters by considering multiple device attributes (location, capabilities, power state, workload) when selecting which device executes a task. This parameter-based selection ensures tasks are assigned to the most appropriate device, reducing energy waste and improving efficiency.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple assistant devices from different providers are integrated, then device versatility increases, but coordination between devices becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal communication framework that works across devices from different providers. By establishing common protocols and interfaces, the system achieves multi-vendor compatibility without requiring complex custom integrations for each device pair.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses standardized device profiles and capability descriptions that can be copied and exchanged between different assistant ecosystems. This allows devices from different providers to understand each other's capabilities through standardized representations rather than custom integration logic.
4Productivity
If a robotic device delegates tasks to other devices, then resource utilization improves, but communication overhead increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-establishing communication channels and device capability profiles before tasks need to be delegated. Devices register their capabilities in advance, and the system maintains an updated view of available resources, so when a task arises, delegation can occur quickly without extensive real-time negotiation.
Data Source
AI summary
Implementations set forth herein relate to a robotic computing device that can seek additional information from other nearby device(s) for fulfilling a request and/or delegating certain operations to the other nearby device(s). Delegating certain operations can involve the robotic computing device maneuvering to a location of a nearby device and soliciting the nearby device for assistance by providing an input from the robotic computing device to the nearby device. In some instances, the input can include an audible rendering of an invocation phrase and a command phrase for invoking an automated assistant that is accessible via the nearby device. A determination of whether to delegate certain operations or seek additional information can be based on a variety of factors such as predicted efficiency and estimated accuracy of performance for performing certain operations.