The Need

Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs) are critical to modern, highly automated environments, operating 24/7 to optimize tasks, increase throughput, and meet demanding operational requirements. However, most task allocation and charging solutions focus solely on maximizing performance metrics like task completion and revenue, neglecting the impact on battery lifespan and sustainability. Poorly managed battery usage and maintenance scheduling can lead to increased costs, reduced AMR lifespan, and operational inefficiencies. A solution that balances performance with battery health and maintenance is essential for sustainable and cost-effective AMR operations.

The Technology

OSU engineers have developed MTC (Maintenance-aware Task and Charging Scheduler), a cutting-edge system designed to optimize task allocation and charging schedules for AMR fleets while prioritizing battery sustainability and maintenance. Using Linear Programming (LP) to schedule preventive maintenance and the Kuhn-Munkres algorithm for task and charge scheduling, MTC minimizes the combined costs of task downtime and battery degradation. This innovative approach enables seamless 24/7 operation while extending AMR battery life and improving operational efficiency. Experimental results show that MTC reduces total costs by up to 3.45 times and decreases battery capacity degradation by up to 68% compared to existing solutions.

Commercial Applications

• Logistics and Warehousing: Optimizes AMR fleets in distribution centers to increase efficiency and sustainability.
• Manufacturing: Ensures uninterrupted AMR operation in assembly lines while reducing battery degradation.
• Healthcare: Enhances the performance and longevity of AMRs in hospitals for tasks like medication delivery.
• Retail Automation: Streamlines AMR fleets in large-scale retail operations for stocking and inventory management.
• Smart Cities: Manages AMRs in urban environments for tasks like delivery and maintenance.

Benefits/Advantages

• Enhanced Sustainability: Reduces battery capacity degradation by up to 68%, extending AMR lifespan.
• Cost-Effective: Lowers total operational costs by up to 3.45 times compared to traditional methods.
• Seamless Integration: Balances task performance and maintenance schedules without compromising throughput.
• Scalable: Adapts to fleets of varying sizes and operational complexities in diverse industries.
• Reliability: Incorporates preventive maintenance to reduce hardware failures and task downtime.