Task Manager for Coordinating Multi-Robot Sub-Task Sequences
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current automated systems for performing tasks on equipment often require human intervention or lack the capability to efficiently coordinate multiple robotic machines with different capabilities to accomplish complex tasks.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising multiple robotic machines with distinct capabilities, coordinated by a task manager that assigns and manages sequences of sub-tasks to each machine based on its specific capabilities, allowing them to collaborate and complete tasks such as manipulating or inspecting target objects on stationary equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple robotic machines with different capabilities are used to perform complex tasks, then task efficiency and productivity are improved, but system complexity and coordination difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides complex tasks into multiple sub-tasks and assigns them to different robotic machines based on their specific capabilities. Each robotic machine performs a specialized subset of operations, allowing the system to handle complex tasks efficiently while managing complexity through modular task distribution.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a task management system that acts as an intermediary between the control system and multiple robotic machines. This mediator coordinates task assignments, manages capability matching, and orchestrates collaboration between different robotic machines, reducing the coordination burden on the overall system.
2Productivity
If automated systems are used to perform tasks without human intervention, then productivity increases, but the ability to handle unexpected situations and adaptability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables dynamic adjustment of operational parameters and task assignments based on real-time conditions. The system can modify task sequences, reassign sub-tasks between robotic machines, and adapt operational parameters to handle unexpected situations while maintaining autonomous operation and productivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system includes a first robotic machine having a first set of capabilities for interacting with a target object on stationary equipment; a second robotic machine having a second set of capabilities for interacting with the target object; and a task manager that can determine capability requirements to perform a task on the target object. The task has an associated series of sub-tasks. The task manager can assign a first sequence of sub-tasks for performance by the first robotic machine based on the first set of capabilities and a second sequence of sub-tasks for performance by the second robotic machine based on the second set of capabilities. The first and second robotic machines can coordinate performance of the first sequence of sub-tasks by the first robotic machine with performance of the second sequence of sub-tasks by the second robotic machine to accomplish the task.