Showing papers on "Distribution center published in 2001"

A two-echelon inventory allocation and distribution center location analysis

Abstract: The optimization of locations for distribution centers is influenced by the demand for individual products. Lower demand products are often more effectively held in more centralized locations than higher demand products. This paper presents a model for optimizing the location of inventory for individual products in a multi-product two-echelon inventory system and the integration of those decisions into the location analysis for distribution centers. A realistic application of the analysis process is discussed.

Radio station digital music distribution system and method

Abstract: The present invention involves a system and method of distributing music to radio station listeners over a public computer network. First, a distribution center for distributing electronically stored music is required. Second, the distribution center has an interface for independent music artists to contribute electronically stored music to the distribution center. Next, an interface for radio stations is provided to refer listeners to the distribution center. The interface for radio stations gathers information from the listeners during the distribution process. The distribution center includes an interface for electronic commerce relating to the distribution of electronically stored music.

Method and apparatus for efficient packet delivery and storage

Abstract: A method and system for the efficient bulk package delivery for recipients. Items ordered by different customers from different retailers, suppliers or manufacturers can be organized by common item identifiers and shipped in bulk from retailers or manufacturers, to an origination regional distribution center. The items can be sorted at the origination regional distribution center in bulk based on the location of destination regional distribution centers that can serve destination centralized pickup locations chosen by the customers placing the orders for those items. Ordered items can be sorted by recipient and the destination centralized pickup location specified in the customer's order and packed into recipient-specific packages at the destination regional distribution center. The packages can be transported in bulk to the destination centralized pickup locations where they can be randomly loaded into any available locker bins in an automated system of stationary and moveable, configurable storage locker bins. During loading, an association can be made between an identifier of the locker bin and an identifier of the bulk delivered package for subsequent self service identification and retrieval. An electronic notification of the delivery can be automatically dispatched to the recipient by the automated system of storage locker bins to alert the recipient of the delivery.

Method of distribution of digital media having durational limits for digital media usage

Abstract: A digital media distribution system includes a distribution center and an utilization device that communicates with, and receives digital media from, the distribution center. Restrictions are transferred with the digital media that limit the use of the digital media on the utilization device independently of the distribution center.

Spreadsheet Implementable Inventory Control for a Distribution Center

Abstract: This paper develops and tests a simple procedure for establishing stocking rules for a multi-component distribution center that supplies spare parts for an equipment maintenance operation. Our basic formulation seeks to minimize inventory investment subject to constraints on average service level and replenishment frequency. We simplify this formulation by classifying parts according to a new ABC methodology and applying heuristics to the classical (Q,r) model that lead to closed-form expressions for the stocking parameters. Our numerical results show that: (1) the proposed ABC scheme does not introduce large errors provided that it is done in a manner that reflects the key parameters in the model, and (2) any of a number of simple reorder point heuristics can provide the basis for an effective spreadsheet implementable system for controlling inventory in a complex multi-component environment as long as the service level is checked against the exact formula.

Multi-user distribution system and center for diagnosis-related educational information and home medical tests and devices

Abstract: A medical, educational, and home healthcare materials distribution system for enabling medical subscribers to provide the best available diagnosis-related products to clients. A patient/user enters the system by presenting to a medical subscriber, either in person or by other means, to receive a medically-informed recommendation. The recommendation may be an oral communication, order form, or a special prescription pad. The medical subscriber may make suggestions to the patient/user as to appropriate educational materials and medical products or may rely entirely on the distribution center of the system to correlate the patient's diagnosis to preselected educational materials and home medical assessment or monitoring products. The patient may personally place orders through the system or have them ordered by the medical office. The distribution center ships the materials to the patient by mail and sends documentation of the transaction to the patient's physician's office.

Automated Purchasing system

Abstract: This invention is directed toward an integrated product evaluation selection and purchasing system allowing the consumer to both physically evaluate a product in the showroom environment as well as to utilize the benefits of online selection and e-commerce purchasing. The showroom environment contains an interactive stand capable receiving product criteria from the consumer representing the desired characteristics of a good. The interactive stand is able to direct the consumer to perform physical evaluations on samples of goods representing the available goods for sale and to include these physical evaluations into the product criteria of the consumer. The interactive stand is then able to compare the product criteria with selection characteristics to provide a hierarchy of preferred goods ordered by preference. The consumer may purchase a good wherefore the purchase information is transmitted to a call center and, ultimately, to a distribution center, where shipping takes place.

Travel information distribution system

Abstract: A travel information distribution system includes a distribution center and a wireless terminal of a user who can readily obtaining necessary travel information in traveling places using the wireless terminal such a portable telephone or a portable personal computer. The user visits a travel agency to apply a travel, has a travel schedule table prepared and registers a telephone number of the wireless terminal in a database. The travel agency sends the data of the user to the distribution center, and distribution center receives travel information from information providers. After the departure of the travel, the distribution center transmits necessary travel information to the user at a proper time in a proper place. The user can obtain the necessary updated information in the necessary place and can be free from a heavy weight travel guidebooks. The distribution center can obtain advertisement incomes from travel agencies and advertisement firms.

Communication system capable of reducing communication load

Abstract: A portable information terminal is connected through a radio base station and the like to the Internet. Furthermore, a music server, a mail server and a distribution center are connected to the Internet. The distribution center distributes data stored in the music server and mail server. The distribution center includes a distribution server, a distribution data store memory in which data for the distribution is transiently stored and a radio unit which wirelessly distributes data to the portable information terminal. When accesses are concentrated on the music server from the distribution information terminals, the music server transfers a file including music data to the distribution center. The distribution center wirelessly transfers the file to each of the portable information terminals with temporal dispersion. Thus, even if the accesses for the communications are temporarily concentrated on the particular apparatuses such as the server, employing the above structure allows the communication system to avoid the occurrence of an overload condition.

On-vehicle audio system

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To download desired music or video information from a distribution center to driver's own on-vehicle audio device through the Internet by connecting a mobile communication device such as a portable telephone or PHS to the on-vehicle audio device. SOLUTION: This system is equipped with the distribution center which distributes music information or video information, the on-vehicle audio device, the mobile communication device which is connected thereto, and a recording medium which is loaded in the on-vehicle audio device so as to record the distributed music information or video information; when a user in the cabin accesses the distribution center through the Internet by using the mobile communication device, the music information or video information that the user desires is downloaded to the on-vehicle audio device through the mobile communication device on condition that the vehicle is at a stop and the user is already registered or newly registered to the distribution center. COPYRIGHT: (C)2003,JPO

System and method for production and distribution of mail pieces for mass mailings

Abstract: A system and method for mass mailing is disclosed which operates from the perspective of the receiver. Herein, data comprising mass mail items is electronically distributed to a receiving center where it is sorted by region, then to a service center assigned to the region. At the service center, the data is again sorted by the line of route distribution which includes the addressee address and the data is printed. The printed data is then stuffed into envelopes. Alternatively, an envelope face layout may also be included in the data and printed on the envelope. The envelope, comprising the mail item, is then distributed to the local distribution center, where the mail item is delivered, the mail item having been received in the line of route distribution order. Alternatively, the printing may be performed at the distribution center.

System, method and computer program product for distribution center usage in a supply chain framework

Abstract: A system, method and computer program product are disclosed for projecting distribution center usage in a supply chain management framework. A plurality of supply chain distributors are displayed utilizing a graphical user interface. The entry of a growth value is allowed utilizing the graphical user interface so that a projected parameter amount associated with the supply chain distributors can then be calculated based on the growth value.

Method and system for selling digital data

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To resolve the problem that a conventional method for selling digital data troubles a user because the user has to designate a settlement method like a credit number each time when ordering digital data. SOLUTION: A network discriminates a user terminal by the originating number of a call by which the user terminal accesses a distribution center terminal to access the delivery center terminal, and the distribution center terminal transmits digital data to the user terminal in accordance with an order, and the distribution center terminal transmits delivery completion result information reporting the delivery completion of digital data to the network when receiving reception completion result information reporting the reception completion, and the network disconnects access to the delivery center terminal when receiving delivery completion result information and transmits order completion information, which indicates a demand for the communication charge including the price of digital data, to a communication enterpriser management terminal.

System, method and computer program product for creating cost system components in a supply chain management framework

Abstract: A system, method and computer program product are disclosed for creating cost system components in a supply chain utilizing a network. A plurality of items are defined utilizing a graphical user interface. A supplier site is selected from a set utilizing the graphical user interface. The set of supplier sites is determined based on the definition of the items. A distribution center is also determined utilizing the graphical user interface. The distribution center is designated to interface with the supplier site for distribution of the items.

Travelling information distribution system

Abstract: A travel information distribution system includes a distribution center and a wireless terminal of a user who can readily obtaining necessary travel information in traveling places using the wireless terminal such a portable telephone or a portable personal computer The user visits a travel agency to apply a travel, has a travel schedule table prepared and registers a telephone number of the wireless terminal in a database The travel agency sends the data of the user to the distribution center, and distribution center receives travel information from information providers After the departure of the travel, the distribution center transmits necessary travel information to the user at a proper time in a proper place The user can obtain the necessary updated information in the necessary place and can be free from a heavy weight travel guidebooks The distribution center can obtain advertisement incomes from travel agencies and advertisement firms

Integrating the supply chain management and continuous quality improvement approaches by use of the integrated supply chain structural analysis method

Abstract: Supply chain management and continuous quality improvement are two methods that have had a profound effect on industrial productivity. A case study of a community blood processing and distribution center provides an account of the application of the Int..

Stock management system

Abstract: A stock management system (1) comprises a management center device (2) (a stock management server (6) and a basic system (7)) connected to user terminals (3) installed in a large number of warehouses (5) through communication lines (8) and a distribution center terminal (4) Stock data (681) in the stock management server (6) is updated according to past record data about carrying stored commodities out of the warehouses (5) of the users (3) and about returning It is judged whether or not it is necessary to replenish commodities on the basis of the stored amount of commodities (replenishment point data) needing replenishment preset in a user master (67) According to the results of the judgment, when replenishment is needed, the replenishment instruction data (683) is fed to the basic system (7), and the basic system (7) instructs a distribution center (4A) to replenish the commodities according to the replenishment instruction data (683) The replenishment commodities are delivered from the distribution center to the warehouses (5) of the users (3) Thus, a stock management system capable of managing simultaneously the stocks of a large number of users in the form as desired by the users

Device, method and program for automatic updating of user attribute register information

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To relieve burden on a user by selecting information based on the taste of the user, distributing information with efficiency and relieving time and labor in setting attribute information. SOLUTION: A user attribute register information updating part 13 customizes user attribute register information concerning an information distribution in a distribution center based on an access history to the distribution information. A distribution information control part 14 selects information and decides distribution order in response to an adaptation degree to the user with respect to distribution information. An access frequency to the distribution information, a period upto the latest access time to the distribution information, an access frequency to a distribution information link category, a period upto the latest access time to the distribution information link category and an access time cycle property are adopted as a parameter for customization. User attribute register information is learned by a neural network and updating is automatically performed.

Data distribution method, system, and apparatus and recording medium recording method

Abstract: In a data distribution method of distributing data selected for each of a plurality of user terminals from a distribution center to each user terminal through a communication network, the distribution center is notified of the contents of user operation for the data distributed to the user terminal. The distribution center receives a notification from the user terminal. Data to be subsequently distributed to the user terminal is selected by using the contents of the user operation contained in the notification from the user terminal. The selected data is distributed to the user terminal. A data distribution system, data distribution apparatus, and recording medium are also disclosed.

Multiple order-entry points in e-business: Issues and challenges

Abstract: Many formerly traditional retail organizations now include functionality for on-line order fulfillment in addition to traditional order processing at physical retail stores. The coexistence of these two types of order fulfillment creates a hybrid distribution system. One of the distinguishing features of this type of distribution system is its multiple order-entry (and consequently order-processing) points: one at the retail outlets and one at the distribution center(s). The new challenges introduced by the hybrid distribution system exist on many levels, including the co-existence of multiple requirements associated with differences in: demand pattern (and consequently, differences in material handling and storage requirements), shipping and transportation methods, inventory systems, information systems, and performance measurement. This paper describes the major issues and challenges associated with hybrid distribution systems and identifies directions for future research.

A methodology for software development cost analysis in information-based manufacturing

Abstract: The long lead-time response is always a problem for supply chain distribution systems, especially in the perishable food industry and rapidly advancing computer industry. The Internet common base environment can support suppliers and customers with online information and provide quick response time. This paper is based on a project between the New Jersey Institute of Technology and the Tropicana Juice Distribution Center in Jersey City, New Jersey. One goal of the project is to use information technology to automate the present system and thus shorten the response time from seven to three days. The existing structure uses electronic distribution interface, fax, telephone or e-mail to place orders. The project proposes an integrated Internet working environment for all the members of the supply chain. This paper focuses on the cost analysis of its related software that consists of in-house development and outsourcing. Activity based cost and lifecycle engineering methods are used to catalog all the cost expenses for the software development.

Developing the executive information system for distribution centers using object oriented prototyping method

Abstract: The distribution center plays a key role in the physical supply chain system. In order to deal with the diversity of business, and provide better customer service, the distribution center is computerized and automated, and has become a trend of development in the channel revolution. To executives in a company, information is as important as other resources. Therefore, building a suitable executive information system (EIS) to aid decision-makers, and choosing key components from numerous information sources are essential factors to promote the efficiency of the distribution management. This paper presents a methodology of constructing the framework of a suitable EIS for distribution centers.

Distribution system and distribution control method

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a distribution system capable of rationalizing, automating, and simplifying an inventory control, order receiving control, ordering control, and distribution control of commodity, accurately and quickly receiving the order and ordering the commodity, and improving the content and the quality of the service to the customer. SOLUTION: This distribution system is provided with customer terminals 21a and 21b provided in customer stores 2, a center system 10 provided in a center 1, supplier terminals 31a and 31b installed in suppliers 3 side, forwarding store terminals 41a and 41b installed in forwarding stores side delivering the commodity, and a distribution center terminal 51 provided in the distribution center 50. The respective terminals 21a-51a and the center system 10 are connected to a computer network 60 such as Internet or Intranet, and communicate order receiving and ordering data of the commodity via the computer network system 60.

Standard time supplying service system

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enhance the reliability for the required standard time by stably performing the distribution of information on standard time and the measurement of the difference from standard time at a necessary time and frequency required by each user on condition that a certification item is presented. SOLUTION: This service system comprises a first standard time distribution center 10, a second standard time distribution center 20 for receiving the first standard time of the distribution center 10 through a communication line 70, and a user (an intra-office NTP server 30) for receiving the second standard time of the distribution center 20 through the communication line 70. The second standard time distribution center 20 corrects and distributes the standard time received from the first standard time distribution center 10 to the user to adjust the time of the electronic timepiece of the user.

On the Planning Framework of Modern Urban Distribution Center

Abstract: This paper introduces the development policy of commercial distribution industry of Japan at first, then analyses the urgent problems of modern distribution industry in China. It brings forward the planning framework of the modern distribution system in the regional center, and raises some issues needing further study in the process of planning practice.

Electronic Commerce and Logistics Planning: An Underrated Relationship

Abstract: The study aims to describe the relationship existing between electronic commerce and business logistics, highlighting the impact that such a branch of the new economy will have on the logistics structures, in the next future. The purpose of this paper is also to identify the organizational model characterizing the outbound logistics process and that will most likely be implemented by those companies that will be succesful in the electronic commerce (B2C) of "physical products". In order to provide further design advices, a specific section of this paper has been dedicated to the identification of the critical variables that may influence the design of the logistics network, with specific reference to the logistics "last mile" issue. The analysis of the combination of such variables has allowed the formulation of a reference framework which can easily be used to evaluate the main distribution alternatives: direct (home) delivery to final customer vs. delivery through a logistics platform (sales outlet, cross docking point, local distribution center, etc.).With this framework it is possible to more accurately understand the relationships among customer service requirements and cost levels, variables that can be managed by the network designer and choices of the most effective way to perform the physiacal delivery service.

Transmission of data to a radio terminal just before its utilization

Abstract: When going to a destination by an electric train and so forth, a user 102 of a mobile type telephone set 101 stores data distribution plan information in a distribution center 105 via a base station 111. In the distribution center 105, based on a mobile plan to the destination, an error data for arrival time at the destination is calculated, and is stored in a data distribution plan information storage section 116. The data distribution plan information storage section 116 subtracts an error time period, after which arrival will be earlier, and generates data distribution plan information. A data transmitting section 113 sets a difference between the current time and distribution scheduled time in a timer circuit 119, and when time has come, transmits a distribution data stored in a distribution data storage section 118 to the mobile type telephone set 101. Even in case that the destination is changed in accordance with the movement of the user 102, since a data necessary at destinations is distributed near the respective destinations, efficient utilization of a memory can be realized.

Information distribution system

Abstract: PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an information distribution system which make users feel satisfied by providing area-limited contents having scarcity value and requesting an advertisement charge of a provider of information distributed to users. SOLUTION: When a portable telephone set 20 sends a transmit signal to an information distribution center 30, this transmit signal is sent to the information distribution center 30 through a base station 34C, a mobile exchange 33, etc. The information distribution center 30 once receiving this transmit signal detects the location area of the portable telephone set from the information received from the portable telephone set 20 and base station 34C, extracts area- limited contents corresponding to the location area of the portable telephone set 20 from a database that the information distribution center 30 holds, and sends the contents to the portable telephone set 20 and also requests an advertisement charge of the information provider.

Singapore remains the global distribution hub for chip maker

Abstract: SUBTITLE: NATIONAL SEMICONDUCTUR TRAVELS A SHORT DISTANCE TO A NEW DISTRIBUTION CENTER -- BUT ANY GLITCH IN THE JOURNEY THREATENS TO HAVE GLOBAL RAMIFICATIONS.