Showing papers on "Fleet management published in 1989"

Optimal design of transit short-turn trips

Abstract: A set of procedures is presented for efficiently designing transit timetables with trips that are initiated beyond the route departure point, or terminated before the route arrival point, or both ("short-turn trips"). In practice, transit frequency is determined at the route segment with heaviest load, whereas at other segments the operation may be inefficient because of partial loads (empty seats). Transit schedulers attempt to overcome this problem by manually constructing short-turn trips to reduce the number of vehicles required to carry out the transit timetable. The study presented herein was meant to improve and automate this task by identifying feasible short-turn points, deriving the minimum fleet size required by a given schedule, and adjusting the number of departures at each short-turn point to that required by the load data (provided that the maximum headway associated with passenger wait time is minimized). Other objectives included minimizing the number of short-turn trips while ensuring that the minimum fleet size is preserved and creating vehicle schedules (blocks). A simple example is used throughout to illustrate the procedures developed.

Network Models for Fleet Management

Abstract: This paper presents network models to determine the optimal replacement policy for a fleet of vehicles over a finite planning horizon. First, a minimum cost-flow model is developed to determine the optimal replacement schedule for a fleet of fixed size consisting of a single type of vehicle of various ages. The model is then extended to allow for restrictions on capital expenditures that limit the purchase of new vehicles in any time period and to allow for fluctuations in the fleet size due to planned expansion or retrenchment. Finally, a multi-commodity network model is developed for a fleet consisting of multiple vehicle types and ages.

Magnavox Automatic Vehicle Location Pilot System for the Toronto Department of Ambulance Services

Abstract: The AVLS integrates several technologies in a manner that permits satisfaction of demanding requirements, and allows for significant growth and application customizing. Principal examples of this integration are the navigation subsystem, communication subsystem, and AVLS base station dispatch software. Each of these subsystems is described, and how they address the specific needs of the application is illustrated. The ability to tailor the system to other AVLS requirements is also discussed. >

Solving driver turnover

Abstract: The article uses five fleets as case studies to look into ways of solving driver turnover problem. These five fleets have different driver needs and different approaches for satisfying those needs, but each has taken a hard look at the problem of driver retention and developed strategies to help it hold on to experienced drivers. The one thing these five have in common is the recognition that their ultimate success as trucking businesses relies on treating each driver as an integral part of the company, rather than as an interchangeable extension of his or her truck. These case studies illustrate that recognizing the need for that change in attitude is easy, but it takes constant, concerted effort on the part of fleet managers to put it into prctice.

Road information systems: impact of geographic information systems technology to automatic vehicle navigation and guidance. in: conference record of papers presented at the first vehicle navigation and information systems conference, toronto, ontario, canada - september 11-13, 1989

Abstract: Drivers wish to travel in the best conditions in terms of time, safety, economy and comfort. They need up-to-date, accurate, timely and relevant information to enable them to plan and manage their trips, either at the beginning of the journey, or, during travel, by changing their route or simply getting forecasted information concerning the rest of the trip. Currently the information is collected by different agencies at different frequency and at different levels of detail. Little effort has been made to integrate and utilize the information efficiently. A prototype Road Information System (RIS) is being developed at the University of Calgary. A RIS is a special-purpose Geographic Information System (GIS) that collects, organizes and disseminates information related to the street and highway networks of a city or a region. The basic structure of the RIS is the road and street network which is made up of a series of nodes and links. Attributes from different applications can be referenced by these nodes and links. The structure, if properly designed, can serve many applications such as route determination and route guidance, commercial and service information provision, dispatching and monitoring fleet vehicles, as well as road inventory and traffic management. The current research effort of the prototype RIS concentrates on data modelling, spatial data base management, communications and real-time applications for the many Automatic Vehicle Location, Navigation and Guidance (AVLNG) Systems presently being developed - the AVLN 2000 being one of these.

QUIKTRAK: a unique new AVL system

Abstract: This automatic vehicle location system developed and installed in Australia features a low-cost on-vehicle component, and offers high system performance in terms of location capacity and accuracy The added ability to transfer data to and from the vehicle enables many applications in fleet management and security to be realized The system has been designed to provide coverage over an area of some 2000 km/sup 2/ with an accuracy of approximately 30 m It has the capability to support many independent users and many thousands of vehicles The current tracking capacity is 30000 locations per hour Spread-spectrum phase-multilateration techniques provide accurate locations on moving vehicles in the severe multipath environment encountered in heavily built-up areas >

Estimating Fleet Fuel Consumption for Vans and Small Trucks

Abstract: A fleet fuel consumption model for commercial vans and small trucks is developed based on a survey, completed by truck drivers in the normal course of their duty. The model uses engine displacement, vehicle mass and average speed to predict fuel consumption for petrol and diesel trucks. It explains 77.4% of the variance for diesel and 86.3% for petrol trucks respectively, with the mass term dominating the regression. The model was found to predict within 1–20% of the actual fuel consumed by three instrumented trucks undergoing a controlled series of tests. As a fleet model, it represents an inexpensive and simple tool for monitoring vehicle and traffic changes.

Navigation and digital maps interface for fleet management and driver information systems

Abstract: Companies developing navigation and map technologies are faced with the problem of providing products that can be utilized in the wide range of emerging market applications. The author explores one company's approach in developing products with layered interfaces to meet this challenge. Examples are given of fleet management and driver guidance systems utilizing command layer interfaces. The simplicity of the interface allows the applications developer to integrate navigation into a larger system with little up-front cost. Because the application does not reside in the navigation device, the applications developer has complete control over this project. This minimizes the complexity of interface and the interactions necessary to get his application published on the navigation device's storage media. >

An equipment health monitoring and fleet dispatching system for logging trucks

Abstract: Summary form only given. A research project directed at the development of an automatic fleet monitoring system is described. Log truck operating parameters are monitored remotely and automatically and transmitted to a base station for data-logging and near real time display and analysis. The system is being developed for the special needs of the forest industry. It is hoped that when fully operational and linked to fleet dispatching and maintenance trending algorithms, it will realize estimated cost savings of 15-30%. The vehicle monitoring system consists of: (1) an onboard computer system that monitors the mechanical health of the trucks, (2) a DataRadio telemetry system to transfer the collected data to the base station via a repeater, and (3) a base computer for polling the trucks, data logging, display and analysis. The system samples 27 mechanical parameters, including engine oil and coolant pressure, temperature, and level; exhaust gas, retarder oil, transmission oil, and differential oil temperatures; and brake supply and application air pressure. >

Public data networks: the Mobitex system

Abstract: Summary form only The author presents an overview of the hierarchy, features, and functionality of the Mobitex public data network, soon to be in operation throughout Canada and the United States He discusses some of the problems and inefficiency factors faced by existing networks in attempting to address an ever-growing market need for mobile data communications He addresses how, through the introduction of a network such as Mobitex, some of these problems (ie frequency allocation and geographical expansion) can be avoided Access to a North-American-wide mobile data market and the effect on specific industries, such as transportation, vehicle navigation, and fleet management are discussed The crucial role of the system integrator (value added reseller) and the distribution philosophy for the Canadian market are outlined >

User applications of mobile satellite services

Abstract: The author outlines the Canadian Mobile Satellite program and the associated service offerings, and provides some detailed examples of potential end-user applications related to vehicle navigation and information systems. Particular attention is given to such end-user applications as aircraft flight tracking, truck fleet management, marine fleet management, and railcar fleet management. An outline of the expected end-user benefits of these services is given. >

Vanpools: pricing and market penetration

Abstract: This paper examines the progress of 15 years of formalized vanpooling in developing a market niche. It offers a strategy for achieving vanpooling's market potential through nontraditional financing and fleet managemnet strategies. Two approaches to vanpooling are examined in two case studies: the first using a traditional approach based on capital cost recapture linked to the length of a standard van lease and the second using a capital cost recapture formula based on the actual useful life of a van in mileage. The findings support the premise that capital cost recovery over the useful vehicle life results in significant fare reductions and increased market penetration. The report also concludes that traditional vanpool fleet management approaches frequently result in retiring vans prematurely, leading to higher fares and excluding a large segment of the vanpool market, the 20-to-40 mi per direction commute. It suggests that, where possible, capital cost recovery through fares should be done over the useful van life of from 120,000 to 200,000 mi per unit, or up to 10 years. In addition, the perceived view among vanpool fleet managers that frequent van change-outs are required for customer acceptance, safety, and reliability is unsupported by experience. Although not all programs can use life-cycle capital cost recovery techniques because of the need for capital or borrowing power, those that can will enjoy a significant increase in market share for vanpooling, without subsidization, at reduced rider fares.

Development of a third generation on-board computer system

Abstract: An expert software system to solve the problems associated with user acceptance of onboard computers in heavy trucks has been designed and implemented. The resulting third-generation onboard computer system addresses the major marketplace issues responsible for the relatively poor market penetration. The administrative cost of operating an onboard computer system program has been reduced by up to 70% by automating the data management process and automatically providing fleet management with easy-to-read memos to document the performance of the fleet. The memos are designed for several specific management levels, from the driver through the company president. Memos designed for drivers are generated on an exception basis and utilize a unique coaching approach to help to improve the driver's performance. >

How important is mobile communication for a truck company? in: conference record of papers presented at the first vehicle navigation and information systems conference, toronto, ontario, canada - september 11-13, 1989

Abstract: In the Netherlands the truck companies are concerned with how they can keep their strong position in international transport after 1992. In that year the borders between the European member states shall disappear and a free market will be created. One possibility to help maintain that strong position, is to bring the company to a higher level of fleet management control. A first condition for managing a fleet in a running process, is to have a communication facility with the truck, but more is necessary. Research has shown that it is of great importance to change the internal organization to get the maximum profit from the communication system. To know the position and the status of the truck is one thing, to use this knowledge for getting more efficiency, and a higher grade of load is another, and is even more difficult to solve. Every branch requires a custom-made solution. In this paper more details will be given on the technical and organizational conditions necessary to bring an internationally operating truck company to a higher level of fleet control. In the Netherlands several companies are now running trials with a space based radio system. Especially in a small country like the Netherlands where the car telephone stops after just a few hours driving these tests are of great importance. The information for this paper will be derived from the research which has been made around that trial.

Quiktrak: a unique new avl system. in: conference record of papers presented at the first vehicle navigation and information systems conference, toronto, ontario, canada - september 11-13, 1989

Abstract: A new automatic vehicle location (AVL) system called QUIKTRAK has been developed and installed in Australia. The system features a low cost on-vehicle component and a high system performance in terms of location capacity and accuracy. The added ability to transfer data to and from the vehicle enables many applications in fleet management and security to be realized.

Vehicle navigation and fleet management using differential gps. in: conference record of papers presented at the first vehicle navigation and information systems conference, toronto, ontario, canada - september 11-13, 1989

Abstract: This paper describes the implementation of an in-vehicle navigation and location system coupled, via a bidirectional UHF data communications link, with a base monitoring and dispatch system. The structure of the in-vehicle system, using deadreckoning and GPS for navigation, is presented along with dynamic test results showing the system performance with and without deadreckoning, and also the system improvements using GPS navigation in the differential mode. Digital mapping and vehicle guidance are discussed and shown as they appear on the in-vehicle color LCD. The structure of the base monitoring and dispatch system is presented showing fleet management techniques and dispatch procedures for both commercial and military applications. Also discussed are the implementation of the digital map data base stored in CD ROM, differential GPS, and the ability of the system to operate in various reference modes such as street address, latitude and longitude, and MGRS. The UHF bidirectional data link is discussed showing its operation and usage. Performance of the data link relative to frequency and data transmission rate is discussed and results of several installations in the US and in Europe are presented. Two commercial applications and one military application are presented for discussion. These applications show the efficiency and effectiveness of real time fleet management systems which improve the ability to quickly and accurately locate vehicles, select and transmit dispatch information, and monitor vehicle progress and performance. This paper covers new approaches to in-vehicle displays (LCD), vehicle tracking using differential GPS, transportable CD ROM map data bases, and improved UHF data communication links. All system hardware is available for demonstration and observation.

How important is mobile communication for a truck company

Abstract: In the Netherlands truck companies are concerned with how they can maintain their strong position in international transport after 1992 It is noted that one possible way is to bring the company to a higher level of fleet management control A basic condition for managing a fleet in a running process is the ability to communicate with the fleet, but more is necessary Research has shown that it is of great importance to change the internal organization of the company to obtain the maximum profit from the communications system Information is given on the technical and organizational conditions necessary The data presented are derived from trials of a space-based radio system by several companies in the Netherlands >

Results from the third year of operation of the Federal Methanol Fleet at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory

Abstract: The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), under the auspices of the Alternative Fuels Utilization Program, has been managing the Federal Methanol Fleet Project since its beginning in fiscal year 1985. This congressionally mandated project directed the Department of Energy to begin to implement methanol-fueled vehicles into civilian government fleet operations. This interim report describes the first year's operations. This interim report describes the first year's operation of the methanol fleet activities at Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory (LBL) in Berkeley, California. Operation of methanol cars at LBL officially began on November 1, 1985. The fleet consists of five 1984 methanol-fueled Chevrolet Citation sedans paired with five analogous gasoline-fueled Citations for comparison. Data have been collected and tabulated on fuel consumption, maintenance records, driver perceptions of operability and safety, and oil sample analyses. Although drivers have expressed some concerns regarding the off-site availability of methanol fuel, they generally reported no significant differences in their perceptions of safety and operability between the methanol and gasoline vehicles. No major maintenance problems were encountered. Oil sample analyses revealed higher engine wear rates in the methanol vehicles, but not alarmingly high. These results are in agreement with those obtained from other methanol fleets. It is concluded thatmore » the Federal Methanol Fleet operation at LBL has been highly successful during its first year of operation.« less

Estimating production of multiloader-truck fleets

Abstract: A fast and accurate method for forecsting the production that will be achieved by a selected fleet of equipment is fundamental to the successful planning of projects involving large amounts of earthmoving. The theory of queues has been used to determine a reliable forecast of loader-truck fleet production. Application of the queuing method is time-consuming, especially when forecasting multiloader-truck fleet production. This paper presents graphical solutions of the queuing model for multiloader-truck fleets.

Vehicular C/sup 3/N-a global satellite solution

Abstract: The Standard-C system, when integrated with a suitable navigation system and other vehicle sensors, offers a unique low-cost global solution for automatic vehicle location, messaging, and fleet management For haulers engaged in just-in-time deliveries such a combination offers to the dispatcher a near real-time display of the truck's progress, while also providing a means of rapidly exchanging messages between the driver and dispatcher whenever the need occurs The range of Standard-C capabilities includes two-way store and forward data/messaging; a short burst transmission mode for position and data reporting; polling; and an enhanced group call facility The flexibility of the system ensures that it is able to satisfy the long-range communications requirements of truck companies throughout the world, operating as a closed user group or via the public network >

The feds' master plan for highway safety

Abstract: To reduce truck accidents, the federal government is unfolding a master plan that will increase its ability to identify and deal with scofflaw fleet managers, unqualified truck drivers and unsafe commercial vehicles. At the heart of the plan is Safetynet--a computerized database providing enforcement personnel with a hit list of notably unsafe fleets. The data base will include information about three main areas of concern: unsafe vehicles, problem drivers and motor carriers often not in compliance with federal regulations and/or having too many accidents. Data on unsafe vehicles will be collected via lap-top computers at roadside safety inspections conducted by states participating in the federal Motor Carrier Safety Assistance Program (MCSAP). Paid for by the Highway Trust Fund since 1984, MCSAP was authorized by the Surface Transportation Assistance Act of 1982. To receive MCSAP funding, a state must adopt federal motor carrier safety regulations or enact equivalent regulations. Today, Florida and South Dakota are the only states not participating, although participation by Alaska and Washington, D.C. remains partial. Since 1984, state MCSAP inspectors have checked more than a million commercial vehicles each year. About 30% are placed out of service for safety violations. Intrastate as well as interstate vehicles are inspected. Data on problem drivers will be sent to Safetynet as a result of the Commercial Driver's License (CDL) program. Safetynet information on fleets will include accident frequency and/or inadequate compliance with federal regulations. Safetynet will flag carriers that receive a less-than-satisfactory safety rating from the Federal Highway Administration's Office of Motor Carriers. This article discusses in detail how the master plan will target Safetynet's three objectives.

Results from the second year of operation of the federal methanol fleet at oak ridge national laboratory

Abstract: The Oak Ridge National Laboratory has completed its second year of operation of ten vehicles for the Federal Methanol Fleet Project; five of the vehicles are fueled with methanol. Over 56,000 miles were accumulated on the vehicles in the second year bringing the total to over 152,000 miles. Energy consumption for the methanol cars was slightly higher than that of the gasoline cars again this year, most likely as a result of shorter average trip lengths for the methanol gas. Iron and lead have accumulated at greater rates in the lubricating oil of the methanol cars. Driver's ratings of vehicles reflected some dissatisfaction with the cold-weather performance of the methanol cars, but the cars have no special provisions for cold weather starting, and the fuel vapor pressure has not been tailored to the season as at other test sites. Otherwise, drivers' opinions of the methanol cars have been favorable.