Structured Floor Map Layout for Automated Inventory Navigation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional techniques for generating structured field maps in inventory systems are inefficient and require manual intervention using graphical user interface (GUI)-based tools, which limits their accuracy and efficiency compared to automated methods.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for generating a floor plan using predefined grid rules, placing inventory station blocks, travel blocks, and storage blocks, with specific connection rules to create a structured field map, and simulating the efficiency of the generated maps to optimize navigation and resource allocation within the inventory system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual GUI-based tools are used for generating structured field maps, then the process allows human intervention and control, but the efficiency and accuracy are limited compared to automated methods
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically generating structured field maps using algorithms that process inventory system data without human intervention. The map generation module autonomously creates optimized layouts based on predefined rules and simulation results, eliminating the need for manual GUI-based map creation while significantly improving efficiency and consistency.
2Measurement precision
If automated methods are used for generating structured field maps, then efficiency and accuracy improve, but the complexity of the generation system increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated map generation system is segmented into distinct functional modules: a map generation module that creates candidate maps using predefined rules, a simulation module that evaluates map performance, and a selection module that chooses the optimal map. This modular segmentation manages system complexity by dividing the automated generation process into manageable, independent components that can be developed and maintained separately while achieving high accuracy.
3Reliability
If multiple prospective maps are generated and simulated, then the optimal map can be selected based on efficiency metrics, but the time and computational resources required increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary action by generating multiple prospective maps in advance using predefined rules and constraints before simulation. Candidate maps are pre-configured with different layout variations, and their performance is then evaluated through simulation. This preliminary generation of options allows the system to select the optimal map based on efficiency metrics without excessive time loss, as the computationally intensive simulation is performed only on pre-generated candidates rather than iteratively.
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects described herein include a computer-implemented method of generating a floor plan for use by a plurality of mobile drive units within an inventory system. The method comprises defining a grid according to predefined grid rules, placing inventory station blocks, placing predefined travel blocks, and placing predefined storage blocks. Predefined connection rules specify which faces of the different predefined blocks are permitted to connect. The method further comprises outputting a map representing the floor plan. The map comprises location information for fiducial markers corresponding to the predefined blocks.