Showing papers on "Fleet management published in 1990"

A successive linear approximation procedure for stochastic, dynamic vehicle allocation problems

Abstract: The Stochastic Dynamic Vehicle Allocation problem involves managing a fleet of vehicles over time in an uncertain demand environment to maximize expected total profits. The problem is formulated as a Stochastic Programming problem. A new heuristic algorithm is developed and is contrasted to various deterministic approximations. The paper presents computational results that were obtained by employing a Rolling Horizon Procedure to simulate the operation of the truckload carrier. Results indicate the superiority of the new algorithm over other approaches tested.

Fleet Size Planning when Outside Carrier Services Are Available

Abstract: The delivery of goods from a warehouse to local customers is a critical aspect of a material logistics system. A strategic decision must be made periodically (e.g., once a year) whether to maintain a private delivery fleet, to employ outside commercial carrier services, or to use a combination of both options. We seek to develop a methodology to address this long range planning decision. Our model considers a geographic area, with random daily demands, served by a single warehouse. The costs considered include the fixed and variable (per mile) costs of a private vehicle and the outside carriers' delivery charges. A private vehicle is constrained by the length of the work-day, since it returns to the warehouse only after completing all its deliveries. Since actual customer locations change from day to day, for planning purposes we divide the geographic area into sectors and decide how best to serve each sector. The model determines the private fleet size and the specific assignment of each sector to a priv...

Vehicle fleet planning the road transportation industry

Abstract: Planning the composition of a vehicle fleet in order to satisfy transportation service demands is an important resource management activity for any trucking company. Its complexity is such, however, that formal fleet management cannot be done adequately without the help of a decision support system. An important part of such a system is the generation of minimal discounted cost plans covering the purchase, replacement, sale, and/or rental of the vehicles necessary to deal with a seasonal stochastic demand. A stochastic programming model is formulated to address this problem. It reduces to a separable program based on information about the service demand, the state of the current fleet, and the cash flows generated by an acquisition/disposal plan. An efficient algorithm for solving the model is also presented. The discussion concerns the operations of a number of Canadian road carriers. >

An overview of available and developing highway vehicle electronic technologies. final report

Abstract: This report presents a review of the state-of-the-art of automatic fleet monitoring, vehicular monitoring/control and travel support systems, and a brief update on navigation systems. The report covers several well-established fleet monitoring technologies: automatic vehicle identification, classification, location, and monitoring, and weigh-in-motion. Image processing systems are also discussed. The section on on-board monitoring/control technologies focuses on the increasing sophistication of power train, chassis, auxiliary, driver interface, and feedback control systems. Travel support systems are divided into three groups: traffic information broadcasting, trip planning, and entertainment/communication systems. An update on vehicle navigation systems is presented in matrix format. Functional diagrams and lists of known equipment suppliers are included. Application examples are also presented, such as the Heavy Vehicle Electronic Licence Plate Program, which is designed to increase the long-haul trucking industry's productivity and make road safety related enforcement more effective. Discussion on market perspectives covers recent technology developments and survey results indicating customer preferences on vehicle electronics. The report highlights the need for an integrated intelligent system. It recommends that all systems intended to support navigation, maneuvering and control tasks receive a full human factors evaluation covering physical, perceptual, cognitive and motivational abilities and limitations. It recommends the establishment of a Canadian intelligent vehicle highway system program to increase transportation productivity, equity and road safety, to help conserve resources and improve air quality, and to make travel more predictable and enjoyable.

Framework for Construction Robot Fleet Management System

Abstract: The application of robotic equipment to the execution of construction tasks is gaining the attention of researchers and practitioners around the world. Numerous working prototype systems have been developed by construction companies or system manufacturers and implemented on construction job sites. Several Japanese construction firms have already developed a fleet of construction robots. As a response to the need to manage effectively diverse robots on future construction sites, this paper describes the architecture for the construction robotic equipment management system (CREMS). A generic decision logic for comparison of conventional work methods and available robotics for the performance of construction tasks is outlined. Modules comprising the system and the interrelationships between the system modules are presented. A logic for comparison of use of one robot on concurrent, mutually exclusive projects is discussed. An example application of CREMS to a concrete floor finishing robot evaluation is pres...

Gps-based automatic vehicle location (avl) and fleet management systems : robust and affordable for the 90s

Abstract: This paper presents an approach to an integrated AVL system, including GPS with auxiliary dead reckoning sensors, communications links, and modern computer workstation implementation of a control and location monitoring center. Actual application and implementation in a municipal bus system is described, along with generalization to other fleet management applications. Test results of the system in stressful urban environments are presented.

An australian study of the impact of company cars on energy consumption

Abstract: The composition of company car fleets affects fuel consumption at a national level through the influence of bulk purchases on vehicle manufacturers, and through the use of company cars for private purposes. This paper compares the characteristics of privately owned vehicles with company vehicles available to business people and members of the general public, sampled in a study carried out in the city of Brisbane during April 1988. Its finding is that company vehicles were newer, more valuable, had larger engines, were more likely to have automatic transmission and air-conditioning, and had poorer fuel economy than privately owned vehicles. (Author/TRRL)

Services and longevity of paratransit operation

Abstract: Paratransit modes are the alternative transportation systems of the future. The systems are cost effective, energy saving and beneficial to users. In this light, more indepth studies are needed that critically examine the variables that impact these modes and ways to establish an environment conducive to the successful operation of paratransit services. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to develop a paratransit paradigm of variables that enhance paratransit success and longevity by examining the effect of policies and strategies on paratransit services. For the purpose of this study, the questions asked were what is the correlation between longevity of paratransit programs and: (1) sources of financial aid; (2) size of the agency's vehicle fleet; (3) operational policies; (4) vehicles rules; and (5) use of back-up vehicles, frequency of maintenance, computer usage and evaluation of services (strategies). The results of statistical analyses and interpretations for the data collected on each of these five research questions are presented in this article.

Informatics applications to improve road freight efficiency: the european experience . 15th arrb conference, darwin, northern territory, 26-31 august 1990; proceedings parts 1 to 7

Abstract: This paper is concerned with new informatics applications that will improve the efficiency of freight transportation in the European context. First, the various road freight operations are presented with a description of the current informatics and telecommunications means, and preferences by the operators, forwarders, etc. Then, for each of these operations the technologies available or planned are discussed and specific conclusions are reached about their future potential for commercial application. The areas of road freight operation considered, are: Information exchange through EDI networks, on-line tracing of shipments and shipment identification, automatic fleet monitoring and vehicle positioning systems, vehicle routing and planning, and autonomous navigation and route guidance. (Author/TRRL)

A land mobile satellite data system

Abstract: The Telesat Mobile Incorporated (TMI) Mobile Data System (MDS) was developed to apply satellite technology to the transportation industry's requirement for a fleet management system. It will provide two-way messaging and automatic position reporting capabilities between dispatch centers and customers' fleets of trucks. The design was based on the Inmarsat L-Band space segment with system link parameters and margins adjusted to meet the land mobile satellite channel characteristics. The system interfaces with the Teleglobe Des Laurentides earth station at Weir, Quebec. The signaling protocols were derived from the Inmarsat Standard C packet signalling system with unique trucking requirements incorporated where necessary.

Satellite mobile data service for Canada

Abstract: A commercial mobile satellite system which is to be constructed and operated in Canada is examined. This is done in two phases. First, mobile data services was introduced. Hub equipment and 3000 mobile data terminals were supplied. Over the satellite tests were performed. The mobile data service provides full two way digital messaging automatic vehicle location and fleet management services. The second phase is to construct, launch and make operational the MSAT satellite and associated network control facilities. The implementation is examined of the mobile data service in Canada, including the technical description. Marketing and applications are also examined.

Aei's newest hurdle: putting data to use

Abstract: Automatic Equipment Identification (AEI) is a versatile tool which uses radio frequency tags or transponders mounted on transportation equipment to help track the movements of and locate equipment anywhere in the world. The tagging system can be merged into existing information systems and two of its greatest uses are in locomotive fleet management and universal rail car/trailer/container identification and train consist verification. The big question for now is just where is the best place to attach the transponder so that it is free from outside interference and readily accessible for obtaining readings.

Modelling the container fleet problem using a stochastic dynamic approach

Abstract: A two-level approach is proposed for the global, integrated planning of the land distribution and transportation of containers. The topmost level is concerned with strategic/tactical planning issues such as depot selection, allocation of clients to depots, and determination of major interdepot empty container flows. The second component corresponds to the level of the day-to-day operational planning of the company's activities. The paper focuses on the description of the operational decision-support system and its two main components: The dynamic stochastic empty container allocation model and the model for routing loaded and empty containers.

Motor fleet management at an enterprise. in: proceedings of the ivth world congress of the international road safety organization, tokyo, japan, june 5-7, 1990

Abstract: In this paper, driver education programmes in operation in the Tokyo Electric Power Company of Japan, in relation to fleet management are discussed. An aspect of this is that employees are prohibited from using fleet vehicles, until a company driving skill test has been passed. Safety campaigns are also run by the company. Data is kept and analysed on personal computer, for any accidents that occur in company vehicles. The french title of this paper is 'Gestion de la flotte motorisee dans une enterprise'. The german title of this paper is 'Verwaltung des fuhrparks in unternehmen'. For the covering abstract of some of the papers see IRRD 837529. (Author/TRRL)

Fleet structures model: a strategic fishing fleet management policy appraisal model

Abstract: The Fleet Structures Model simulates aspects of the structure and operation of a heterogeneous sea fishing fleet in order to make comparative appraisals of fisheries management strategies under varying assumptions about the behavioural environment. The model is dynamic, with predictions in yearly incremental steps which include interactions between expected changes in fleet structure, fleet performance, fish prices and the state of fish stocks. It is an analytic model, and is essentially deterministic but has stochastic elements relating to changes in fleet structure. This paper presents an overview of the model as developed by the Sea Fish Industry Authority and currently programmed for application to the appraisal of United Kingdom fleet management strategies. It also describes a conceptual structure which could be modified to accomodate the management of fleets with different characteristics. The modelling of the interaction of fleet performance with the state of stocks, the effects of effort and landings restrictions on fleet performance, the variation of fish prices, and changes in fleet structure are discussed in detail.