×

Integrated automation system for regions with variable geographical boundaries

  • US 9,476,303 B2
  • Filed: 04/30/2010
  • Issued: 10/25/2016
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/01/2009
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
Patent Images

1. A computer-implemented method for operating autonomous entities within a defined geographical region, the computer comprising a processing unit, the method comprising:

  • a) specifying a description of a plurality of localized zones having operation-defined geographical boundaries within the region;

    b) using the description to determine, in the processing unit, a control hierarchy, wherein the control hierarchy is determined by the spatial location of the localized zones;

    c) establishing, using parameters of the plurality of localized zones, a plurality of control modules, such that each one of the plurality of control modules is associated with a respective one of the localized zones, the control modules being configured in a hierarchy determined by the control hierarchy;

    d) varying a geographical disposition of a boundary of at least one of the localized zones within the defined geographical region, wherein the boundary comprises a virtual barrier;

    e) registering the autonomous entities with respective corresponding control modules of the localized zones so as to associate supervisory control of the autonomous entities with the respective corresponding control modules; and

    f) issuing commands from the associated control modules of the respective localized zones to registered autonomous entities in order to direct the operations of the registered autonomous entities within the localized zone in which the operation occurs, wherein said directing comprises operations in the at least one localized zone having the varied boundary.

View all claims
  • 2 Assignments
Timeline View
Assignment View
    ×
    ×