A performance sensitive hormone-inspired system for task distribution amongst evolving robots

— A hormone-inspired task scheduling method is described which assigns tasks to a group of robots, taking into account the robots’ performances. This method draws on previous work using endocrine-based methodologies, and incorporates existing evolutionary robotics methods. In the resulting system, robot performance data, generated as part of evolution , is used to autonomously reassign tasks amongst the group, without the use of a central controller. I. MOTIVATION AND INSPIRATION The aim of this work was to design a method for autonomous task assignment within a robot group. The method should re-assign tasks upon change, for example when a robot breaks down or when the nature of the group changes. In addition, to avoid introducing a point of weakness to the system, the method should not rely on a central controller. In formulating the design, biological systems were considered because they represent extant methods which coordinate a range of functions. More specifically, the human...

• Type: Conference
• Year: 2008
• Where: IROS
• Authors: Joanne H. Walker, Myra S. Wilson
• Keywords: IROS 2008, Robot, Robotics, Task Assignment, Task Scheduling Method