Showing papers on "Fleet management published in 2001"

System for monitoring vehicle efficiency and vehicle and driver perfomance

Abstract: A commercial vehicle fleet management system which integrates a vehicle on-board computer, a precise positioning system, and communication system to provide automated calculating and reporting of jurisdictional fuel taxes, road use taxes, vehicle registration fees, and the like. In a further aspect, there is provided an online mobile communication system and a system for monitoring carrier vehicle efficiency and vehicle driver performance.

Simultaneous Vehicle and Crew Scheduling in Urban Mass Transit Systems

Abstract: This paper presents an exact approach for solving the simultaneous vehicle and crew scheduling problem in urban mass transit systems. We consider the single depot case with a homogeneous fleet of vehicles. This approach relies on a set partitioning formulation for the driver scheduling problem that incorporates side constraints for the bus itineraries. The proposed solution approach consists of a column generation process (only for the crew schedules) integrated into a branch-and-bound scheme. The side constraints on buses guarantee that an optimal vehicle assignment can be derived afterwards in polynomial time. A computational study shows that this approach out-performs the previous methods found in the literature for a set of randomly generated instances. A heuristic version of the solution approach is also proposed and tested on larger instances.

Database method and system for conducting integrated dispatching

Abstract: A technique for integrating a pre-existing business system with a fleet management system. The pre-existing business system includes, for example, an accounting system, a warehousing system, a dock management system, a yard management system. These fleet management system uses, for example, a combination of a raster map and vector data to provide an easy-to-read display for managing objects or articles, e.g., vehicle, container. The method uses a host gateway to provide a TCP/IP or like interface between the various systems.

Direct dispatcherless automatic vehicle-to-vehicle and non-vehicle to vehicle police/emergency medical service notification system for life threatening accidents, hijackings, thefts and medical emergencies

Abstract: A time-critical automatic, instantaneous and direct (dispatcherless) vehicle to vehicle, auto-routing Police/Emergency Medical Service vehicle, notification and response system that provides interactive and direct communication between a vehicle, non-vehicle, e.g. parked aircraft, property or individual in need of immediate emergency assistance, and the nearest (primary) mobile P/EMS vehicle that is available to respond to the exigency. Rapid notification and response is achieved by using a conventional Global Positioning System (GPS), a cellular phone optionally having positioning capability for transmitting the emergency signal, and a vehicle fleet management system (FMS). The latter is modified and designed to operate with a flawless vehicle theft and/or accident characterization technology. The central processing unit processes data from the GPS/FMS automatically and routes a distress call to a secondary or tertiary P/EMS vehicle, i.e., the next closes P/EMS emergency response vehicle(s), if the primary (nearest) P/EMS does not acknowledge receipt of the request for immediate assistance and intent to respond within a predetermined period. Optionally, a time-critical, life and property threatening multi-channel emergency number 767 (SOS) is presented to differentiate between the well known and often used 911 police emergency number.

Strategic fleet size planning for maritime refrigerated containers

Abstract: In the present economic climate, it is often the case that profits can only be improved, or for that matter maintained, by improving efficiency and cutting costs. This is particularly notorious in the shipping business, where it has been seen that the competition is getting tougher among carriers, thus alliances and partnerships are resulting for cost effective services in recent years. In this scenario, effective planning methods are important not only for strategic but also operating tasks, covering their entire transportation systems. Container fleet size planning is an important part of the strategy of any shipping line. This paper addresses the problem of fleet size planning for refrigerated containers, to achieve cost-effective services in a competitive maritime shipping market. An analytical model is first discussed to determine the optimal size of an own dry container fleet. Then, this is extended for an own refrigerated container fleet, which is the case when an extremely unbalanced trade represe...

Taxi dispatching via Global Positioning Systems

Abstract: This paper empirically examines taxi dispatch operations via Global Positioning Systems (GPS) by three taxi companies. The implementation of GPS technology has radically changed the traditional approach to taxi fleet management. In comparison to the radio-paging systems used previously, the satellite-based dispatch systems have considerably enhanced the accuracy, communications, and productivity of taxi operations. However, variables associated with human-system interfaces and operational environments should be taken into account in order to achieve the full capacity of the systems. Furthermore, the reengineering of operations and the training of end-users are vital to the improvement of service quality and the development of sophisticated public transport systems.

Fleet purchase behavior: decision processes and implications for new vehicle technologies and fuels

Abstract: Vehicle fleets are a poorly understood part of the economy. They are important, though, in that they purchase a large share of light-duty vehicles and are often targeted by governments as agents of change. We investigate fleet purchase behavior, using focus groups, interviews, and mail and telephone surveys. We categorize fleets into four different decision-making structures (autocratic, bureaucratic, hierarchic, and democratic), determine what share of the market sector each represents, describe salient features of each behavioral model, and explore implications of that behavior for industry investment and public policy.

Literature Review on Aircraft Structural Risk and Reliability Analysis

Abstract: : Aircraft structural risk and reliability analysis has gained considerable interest in the area of aircraft structural integrity and fleet management in recent times In this report, a literature review of the current approaches and methodologies that have been utilised in the area of structural risk and reliability analysis for aircraft structures and components is conducted The structural risk and reliability approach discussed here deals mainly with the probability of failure due to aircraft structural fatigue It reviews the engineering techniques and probabilistic methodologies that have been reported in the literature It also discuss the advantages, disadvantage and the limitations of this approach and the reason for its need in aircraft structural and component integrity The application of structural risk and reliability analysis is not limited to structural fatigue problem, its implication in areas other than airframe and component fatigue are also presented This review shows that risk and reliability analysis can be a very useful tool for fleet management and it has potential implications for structural design

Multi-zone dispatching in truckload trucking

Abstract: This paper examines the use of multi-zone dispatching alternatives in truckload trucking using simulation methods and historical freight data of continental scale supplied by J.B. Hunt Transport, Inc. After introducing the concept of zone dispatching, several alternative operational configurations are presented. Simulation results indicate that multi-zone dispatching works best when zone boundaries are configured to minimize, to the extent possible, the freight imbalance between the zones.

Optimal fleet size distribution and scheduling of transit systems using genetic algorithms

Abstract: Optimal fleet size distribution and scheduling with transfer consideration for a transit system is a difficult optimization problem. A traditional formulation of the problem leads to a large non-linear mixed integer programming problem. Past experience has shown that traditional optimization methods are unable to give optimal solutions to even simpler versions of the problem (like the optimal scheduling problem with known fleet size distribution). In this paper, a simple binary coded genetic algorithm (GA) based approach to the optimization problem is presented. The use of GA allows a more efficient formulation of the problem and the GA based approach gives optimal/near-optimal results with limited computation effort.

Intelligent transport systems in commercial fleet management: a study of short term economic benefits

Abstract: Interest in the effects on businesses that have implemented Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) technologies has been growing but systematically collected evidence of the advantages inherent in these technologies at a micro‐level is sparse. This study measures the effects of an ITS technology shortly after being developed and implemented by a courier company. The focus is on its labor augmenting potential. It details the effectiveness of the technology and the software development process. The case study concerns NOVA Group, a diversified transportation company and developer of dispatching software called Dispatch Tools. The effectiveness of the software is considered in terms of productivity of drivers as measured by the number of deliveries per driver‐hour. Data were collected for the same three‐month periods in 1996 before implementation and in 1997 after implementation. A panel of drivers and dispatchers participated. The change in productivity of these drivers after implementation of the dispatch...

Bicycle fleet management system records user badge data in bicycle memory

Abstract: A bicycle (5) fleet management system has storage units (4) with computer controlled release of bicycles activated by a badge reader (6) and transfer of user data from a user carried memory to a bicycle mounted memory and recording of bicycle location through memory in the store. An Independent claim for a bicycle and storage using the management system is included.

Experience rating schemes for fleets of vehicles

Abstract: This paper proposes bonus-malus systems for fleets of vehicles, by using the individual characteristics of both the vehicles and the carriers. Bonus-malus coefficients are computed from the history of claims or from the history of safety offences of the carriers and the drivers. The empirical results are derived from a data set obtained from the Societe de l’Assurance Automobile du Quebec, the public insurer for bodily injuries and the regulator of road safety.

Structural health management for aging aircraft

Abstract: An effective structural health management (SHM) system can be a useful tool for making aircraft fleet management decisions ranging from individual aircraft maintenance scheduling and usage restrictions to fleet rotation strategies. This paper discusses the end-user requirements for the elements and architecture of an effective SHM system for application to both military and commercial aging aircraft fleets. The elements discussed include the sensor systems for monitoring and characterizing the health of the structure, data processing methods for interpreting sensor data and converting it into useable information, and automated methods for erroneous data detection, data archiving and information dissemination. Current and past SHM technology development/maturation efforts in these areas at the Boeing Company will be described. An evolutionary technology development strategy is developed in which the technologies needed will be matured, integrated into a vehicle health management system, and benefits established without requiring extensive changes to the end-user's existing operation and maintenance infrastructure. Issues regarding the end-user customer acceptance of SHM systems are discussed and summarized.

Managing a pool of self service cars

Abstract: Addresses the transportation problem using public electric cars. The management of this new form of transportation means considering two issues: the redistribution of the cars among the stations, and the recharge problem. We describe how we managed these two issues.

System and method for consultative proposals

Abstract: A fleet manager or other user accesses a system for providing information regarding fleet management services. A relatively short list of questions are presented and the fleet manager or other user submits answers to those questions. The system, based upon those answers, generates a consultative proposal illustrating where the fleet management company could save money. The consultative proposal is based upon calculation done with the answers provide and certain static promotional material resident on the system. The system may be provided on a network wherein the fleet manager or other user can remotely access the system, provide their information and almost immediately receive a customized consultative proposal.

Opportunities in truck automation

Abstract: Most of the attention devoted to trucks within the world of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) has been focused on very near-term considerations of using electronics to facilitate border clearances, administrative processes, toll collection and fleet management. In addition, there have been some applications of Advanced Vehicle Control and Safety System (AVCSS) technologies to trucks for safety warnings (forward collision, road departure) and adaptive cruise control. However, there is a potential for trucking operations to gain substantially more dramatic benefits from use of vehicle automation technology to provide fully automated driving capabilities. The benefits of truck automation can be considered in three primary clusters: (1) benefits of separate truck lanes, (2) benefits in terms of vehicle operating economics (including fuel and emissions savings), (3) benefits associated with the truck drivers. The nature of the specific benefits and their monetary values can differ significantly from country to country based on differences in driving conditions, freight movement logistics and truck designs, so quantitative findings that apply in one country are not necessarily directly transferable to another.

Car to car fleet management communications system sends position data on request

Abstract: A car (A) to car (B) fleet management communication system uses internet links (IN) over mobile radio with position transmission on request only and peer to peer chat room facilities.

Fleet Management System

Abstract: Managing paper-driven employee travel and expenses is a slow, fragmented process with abundant potential for uncontrolled spending. As a result, there is a need for a Travel and Expenses Management System to provide a better control and reduce the cycle time. Customizing a standard software package to suit the company operation is selected in order to ensure that the company can leverage from the industry proven best practices of travel and expenses claim processes and at the same time maintain the company unique requirements. This report describes the needs for expense claim automation and the process to customize a standard Travel and Expenses Management System package. The project covers the use of Microsoft Solution Framework (MSF) process model, functional decomposition, process flow diagram and program flow diagram to represent the current system and the proposed system. This paper introduces a web-based Travel and Expenses Management System to enhance the expense claim processes. The system analysis outlines the system requirements by going through the functionality assessment, option assessment and gap resolution. The functional specification illustrates the customization needed by focusing on functionality, technical review, input, processing and output. In addition, the paper shows the fit of MSF process model in this project development and proposes the use of MSF team model for the project involving team efforts. It also outlines the possible additional features and functionalities that could further improve the system.

A Rural Transit Vehicle Management System and Condition Predictor Model

Abstract: In an ongoing effort to improve mobility and quality of life for Alabama's citizens, a computer database system has been developed to improve the State's ability to manage and assess the condition of its rural transit fleet. The development of this management program consisted of a physical inspection of all state-owned vehicles. Upon completion of the physical inventory, the research team developed a vehicle inventory database to track Alabama's public transit vehicles and a data model to predict the condition of individual vehicles. The prediction model is presented as a tool to allow the State Department of Transportation to assign an individual vehicle condition rating for each vehicle, without the cost of a physical inventory. This vehicle rating is intended to support the equitable acquisition and disposal of vehicles reflecting the varied roadway conditions and socioeconomic conditions found statewide.

Extension of the Usable Engine Life by Modelling and Monitoring

Abstract: : After providing some commonly used definitions of fracture critical parts, the influence of improved calculation methods on the design of such components is shown. Various approaches to the determination of usable fatigue life are discussed, particularly the classical safe life philosophy and approaches exploiting the damage tolerance of components. Within this general framework there exist various possible lifing policies, that have to he discussed and agreed between the engine manufacturer, the users and the regulatory agencies. The methods for life usage management may be adapted to changing environments, taking into account the experience gained during operational usage. The introduction of recording or monitoring systems makes it possible to calculate the actual life usage of individual components or at least to determine the scatter of usage within an aircraft fleet. These results enable a specific exploitation of the life potential of the parts without giving rise to an increased risk. The use of the life potential beyond the safe crack initiation life requires experimental and computational methods to gain insight into the fracture mechanical processes governing crack propagation. The corresponding results can also be used to determine inspection intervals tat ensure a detection of cracks before those cracks start uncontrolled growth Results from an on board life usage monitoring system used by the German air force are presented. An outline of the tasks of usage monitoring is given. Finally some remarks on fleet management are presented.

Low Cost, Trackless PRT

Abstract: In many urban environments, the use of private automobiles has led to severe problems with respect to congestion, energy, pollution, noise, safety and general degradation of the quality of life. Therefore, historical city centers are facing serious problems, traditional commerce in them declines — moving to the periphery, and they become less attractive to tourists. In spite of many recent improvements of public transportation systems (PTS), in many cases the car still offers a much better service at the individual level. A new approach for mobility, emerging now as an alternative solution to the private passenger car, offers the same flexibility and much less nuisances: small automated vehicles which form part of the PTS, and complement mass transit and non-motorized transport, providing passenger service for any location at any time. These vehicles can serve as a basis for new, trackless, Personal Rapid Transit systems (PRT). Such systems will avoid the many disadvantages of the conventional tracked PRT, because the infrastructure is much simpler and therefore also much less expensive, does not interfere with the landscape and all in all offers much more flexibility and convenience. This paper describes the general concept of the Trackless PRT system, several of the vehicles and the automated road network, and a fleet management method. The focus is on key technologies which are common to all these systems and which are still under development. Other issues discussed in the paper include cost analysis of advanced transportation systems, and impacts related to quality of life, environment, energy ands safety.

Intelligent transportatiob systems: an historical assessment and the role of operations research

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to make a partial assessment of the achievements of intelligent transportation systems (ITS) in a number of key domains. Section 1 is dedicated to a brief overview of ITS history and main components, while section 2 presents some of the major effortc aimed at the development of national ITS architectures. The paper compares and highlights the similarities and differences between the ISO, American, Canadian, European, and Japanese system architectures. The paper focuses on two major aspects of ITS: advanced traveler information systems in section 3 and commercial vehicle operations and advanced fleet management systems in section 4. In each case, the paper reviews main issues and development stages, identifies technological challenges and achievements, and through descriptions of possible applications of operations research, illustrates how the introduction of better decision support software based on operations research methods and models could very significantly improve the ultimate performance of ITS.

Research on Algorithm of Optimum Path Based on Digital Map

Abstract: Optimal path searching,a main research field of Artificial Intelligence,is a key technique in vehicle navigation system and fleet management system.In view of its application,this paper studies the data structure,the storage,the structure of vector digital maps and the features of real world road networks.It adopts heuristic breadthfirst search algorithm and gives the evaluation functions.Some special cases are also discussed.

Fleetsafe - how to improve driver and vehicle safety in councils

Abstract: The pioneering FleetSafe Report was published in August 1999 as the result of a joint initiative of the Southern Sydney Regional Organisation of Councils (SSROC) and the New South Wales Roads and Traffic Authority (NSW RTA). FleetSafe is the first collaborative initiative involving a model policy and implementing guidelines in Australia. One large council has achieved a 6% decrease in incidents with a 34% decrease in costs, discounting catastrophic events. Whilst it is too early to attribute this to solely to FleetSafe, the data provides real encouragement to further progress the implementation of FleetSafe. This paper will: 1. briefly explain fleet safety; 2. provide an overview of the FleetSafe Report content; and 3. make some key observations from the experience of the eleven SSROC Councils. (a) For the covering entry of this conference, please see ITRD abstract no. E208059.

GPS/GSM based Fleet Management System for Sparse GSM Networks

Abstract: This paper describes the architecture and features of a GPS/GSM based Fleet Management System developed by Accord Software and Systems to cater for territories even with sparse coverage of GSM networks. As an introductory note the importance of Vehicle Fleet Management in India is discussed with relevant Statistics. The paper concludes with the results of field operations carried out in India.

Skybus - copenhagen and showcase - centro real time information systems

Abstract: Skybus is the project name for a real time information system, which consists of 23 buses on a route going around Copenhagen. The buses are equipped with passenger information displays, drivers console and all necessary intelligence such as computer, DGPS and radio communication. Key bus stops are equipped with count down information displays and seven large crossings are prioritised with the use of this system. In public transport there is an increasing need for better and more reliable information systems for the passengers. Good information on the complete journey is very important if one wants to persuade passengers and potential passengers that it is easy to travel with public transport. Information needs to be actual and reliable. Analysis and questionnaires among passengers have in the later years pinpointed that real time information is a key issue. Also the need for accurate Fleet Management for Bus Operators, giving them hands on information in Real Time as to allow service reliability was also a key issue in the introduction of both systems in Denmark and England. The authors' aim is to hopefully enlighten the readers in their experiences in introducing Real Time Systems.

Vehicle fleet management: a bayesian approach

Abstract: This paper focuses on companies that have both a fleet to serve customers and depots for vehicle maintenance. When management of such a vehicle fleet is considered, one of the most important problems is the computation (estimation) of the reliability and the availability of the vehicles. What often makes this computation difficult is the insufficient data for statistical inference or total lack of data (such an aggravating circumstance arises, for example, whenever the fleet is renewed). Concentrating on such a case, this paper presents some analytical formulae based on the Bayesian approach to uncertainty that contribute to the solution of the problem.

6 ways fleets can succeed in a managed competition.

Abstract: SUBTITLE: BENCHMARKING FLEET COSTS AGAINST PEER ORGANIZATIONS AND ENSURING THAT CUSTOMERS' OPERATIONS BECOME MORE PRODUCTIVE ARE TWO OF THE KEY FACTORS FOR FLEET MANAGERS TO ENHANCE THEIR FLEET'S SUCCESS IN A MANAGED COMPETITION.