Robotic Tape Library Queue Manager for Move Instruction Reordering
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current robotic storage library systems face inefficiencies due to serial execution of move instructions and waiting for drives to become ready, leading to suboptimal operation.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that reorganize move instructions in a preferred order using a queue system and algorithm to optimize the movement of robots and storage elements within the storage library, allowing for simultaneous execution of instructions and minimizing waiting times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If move instructions are executed in serial order as received from the host computer, then the system maintains simple instruction processing logic, but the library efficiency and operational speed deteriorate due to unnecessary waiting times
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by receiving and queuing multiple move instructions from the host computer before actually executing them. The queue system stores instructions in advance, and the robot executes them in an optimized sequence determined by the queue manager, rather than executing each instruction immediately as it is received. This allows the system to plan ahead and avoid unnecessary waiting times.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamics by making the instruction execution sequence flexible and adaptive. The queue manager dynamically determines the optimal execution order based on current system state, robot position, and instruction priorities. Instructions can be reordered, paused, or resumed based on real-time conditions, transforming the rigid serial execution into a dynamic optimization process.
2Speed
If the host computer waits for each move instruction to complete before issuing the next one, then instruction accuracy and system control are maintained, but the operational speed and throughput deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The host computer issues multiple move instructions in advance without waiting for their completion, storing them in the queue system. The actual execution and completion tracking are handled by the queue manager and robot controller, which monitor instruction status and ensure reliable execution. This separates the instruction issuance phase from the execution phase, enabling faster throughput while maintaining reliability through dedicated monitoring mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The queue system acts as an intermediary between the host computer and the robot execution system. It receives instructions from the host, manages their execution sequence, and provides status feedback to both the host and robot controller. This intermediary layer buffers the communication, allowing the host to issue instructions rapidly without waiting for completion confirmations, while the queue manager ensures reliable execution tracking.
3Loss of time
If the robot follows the exact sequence of move instructions as issued by the host, then instruction fidelity is maintained, but unnecessary travel time and resource idle time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The queue manager dynamically reorders move instructions to optimize robot travel time and resource utilization. Instead of executing instructions in the exact sequence received from the host, the system analyzes the current robot position, storage element locations, and instruction priorities to determine the most efficient execution sequence. This dynamic reordering reduces unnecessary travel and waiting time while maintaining instruction fidelity through proper tracking and completion reporting.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the execution parameters of move instructions by adjusting their priority and sequence based on real-time system state. The queue manager modifies the execution order parameter, allowing the robot to perform more efficient operations first. This parameter change optimizes the loss of time without compromising the ultimate completion of all required instructions, as the queue manager tracks and reports completion status to the host.
Data Source
AI summary
A robotic tape library which queues two or more move instructions is described. Generally, the robotic system receives a first move instruction which commands a first robot to move a first tape cartridge from a shelf to a first tape drive to be loaded therein. Though the first move has not actually taken place, the library replies to the host computer that the first tape drive has been loaded with the first tape cartridge, at least to an acceptable level of engagement, at which point, the first move instruction is queued. After receiving a second move instruction from the host to move a second tape cartridge from the shelf to a second tape drive, the library reorganizes and physically carries out the move instructions in a preferred order.