A scheduling method and system for LNG liquid delivery vehicles

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of warehousing, loading or distribution, in particular to transportation. The technical scheme is as follows: a method is provided for obtaining and monitoring the tank truck scheduling state of each process node; the tank truck scheduling stage statistics are obtained according to the tank truck scheduling state and the operation state; the low value coefficient of the number of waiting tank trucks is calculated, and a scheduling model is established; and the tank truck is scheduled according to the scheduling model. A system is provided with a main control module for receiving data and determining scheduling instructions through the scheduling model; a data acquisition module for obtaining real-time data from the equipment and a communication module; a supervision module for receiving scheduling instructions and confirming whether to feed back to the communication module; and a communication module for receiving and feeding back the reservation information of external tank trucks and sending scheduling instructions to the present equipment. The present application solves the problem of low execution efficiency and difficulty in continuous operation in the prior art, and provides a scheduling method and system for LNG liquid external transport vehicles, achieving the purposes of ensuring scheduling fairness, strong adaptability and maintaining continuous operation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the fields of warehousing, loading or distribution technology, and more particularly to transportation. Background Technology

[0002] LNG liquid export terminal operations are a complex process highly dependent on human intervention, especially in critical stages such as safety inspections. The process consists of multiple interconnected stages and steps. Limited equipment availability and geographical constraints mean that the state of any stage can have a cascading effect on others. Furthermore, the vast operating area and large number of personnel involved mean that each increase in the number of filling skids or safety inspectors significantly alters the existing dispatching scheme. Traditional manual judgment and queuing methods are no longer sufficient to meet the demands for efficient and accurate vehicle dispatching, leading to increased downtime and limited overall operational efficiency.

[0003] For example, Chinese Patent CN116307540A discloses an autonomous vehicle scheduling method, system, device, and storage medium, providing the following technical solution: This application discloses an autonomous vehicle scheduling method, system, device, and storage medium, relating to the field of vehicle scheduling technology. The key technical points of this solution are: the scheduling method includes: acquiring the amount of goods generated per unit time at each loading / unloading point, and the maximum cargo capacity of the vehicle in a single trip; designating several loading / unloading points matching the maximum cargo capacity of the vehicle as grouping points; acquiring the real-time amount of goods generated at each grouping point; when the sum of the real-time amounts of goods generated at each grouping point meets the vehicle scheduling task threshold condition, locking the current amount of goods at each grouping point, and scheduling the vehicle to sequentially go to each grouping point for loading. Through the scheduling method of this application, vehicles can be rationally scheduled according to the quantity of goods, and multiple points can be grouped for transportation, maximizing the utilization of vehicle carrying capacity and improving operational efficiency. However, the aforementioned method, system, equipment, and storage medium for scheduling autonomous vehicles cannot be well applied in the field of LNG liquid export. It is difficult to ensure the continuity of operations in a continuous process and to achieve complete balanced control. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This invention solves the problems of low execution efficiency, difficulty in continuous operation, and unbalanced control in the prior art. It proposes a scheduling method and system for LNG liquid export vehicles, which achieves the goals of high automation, ensuring scheduling fairness, strong adaptability, and maintaining continuous operation.

[0005] To achieve the above objectives, the present invention adopts the following technical solution: A method for scheduling LNG liquid transport vehicles includes the following steps: S1: Obtain and monitor the tanker scheduling status of each process node; S2: Obtain statistics for the tank truck scheduling stage based on the tank truck scheduling status and operation status; S3: Calculate the low-value coefficient of the number of waiting tank cars and establish a scheduling model; S4: Schedule the tank trucks according to the scheduling model.

[0006] A dispatching system for LNG liquid transport vehicles, comprising: The main control module receives data from the data acquisition module and determines scheduling instructions through the scheduling model; The data acquisition module obtains real-time data from the device and communication module; The monitoring module receives scheduling instructions and confirms whether they pass, then sends feedback to the communication module. The communication module receives and responds to reservation information from external tank trucks and sends scheduling instructions to the current equipment.

[0007] The advantage of this design is that, through a systematic division of steps, it enables comprehensive monitoring and precise control of tanker dispatching, thereby improving dispatching efficiency and response speed.

[0008] Preferably, the tanker dispatch status includes appointment notification check-in, waiting for security inspection, and filling operations. During the tanker dispatch process, necessary quantitative data is recorded and statistically analyzed through the process recording method of the information system. The tanker dispatch status is recorded as needed, and the completion time of each link is recorded in sequence. These process steps are executed sequentially using a sequential queue method, and the status of each process node is monitored. Once there is an empty position in the subsequent node, the tanker of the previous node will be dispatched to the subsequent node. In the appointment notification check-in stage, the status of the station dispatch is estimated and the actual distance required for the tanker to travel is taken into account, and notification is given in advance.

[0009] The advantage of this design is that, through the precise recording of information systems and the sequential queue scheduling method, the orderliness and timeliness of the scheduling process are ensured, human error is reduced, and operational efficiency is improved.

[0010] Preferably, in step S2, the tanker status can be sequentially classified into tanker scheduling stage statistics based on the time point and the scheduling status. The tanker scheduling stage includes the waiting for scheduling notification stage, the stage of being in motion but not yet arrived, the stage of arriving and waiting, and the operation stage. The tanker scheduling stage statistics are obtained based on the number of tankers in each stage status to control the scheduling.

[0011] The advantage of this design is that it enables refined management of the entire tanker dispatching process through phased status statistics, thereby improving the accuracy and controllability of dispatching.

[0012] Preferably, during the tanker dispatching phase, the period when the tanker is not yet on site is a variable whose time cannot be precisely controlled, while the rest of the process can be precisely dispatched and controlled by obtaining clear status and operation time through the on-site operation status record.

[0013] The advantage of this design is that it allows for differentiated control based on the characteristics of different stages, ensuring efficient management of controllable stages while also addressing uncontrollable factors and improving the stability of the overall scheduling.

[0014] Preferably, in the tanker dispatching stage, the statistics for the pending dispatch notification stage include the number of reservations, the statistics for the stage where the tanker is not yet on site include the number of notified vehicles, the statistics for the stage where the tanker has arrived and is waiting include the number of vehicles waiting outside the station, the number of vehicles waiting in the parking lot and security check area, and the number of vehicles queuing on the road inside the station, and the operation stage includes the number of operations in the filling area.

[0015] The advantage of this design is that it allows for a detailed breakdown of statistical items for each scheduling stage, making scheduling control more targeted and precise, and ensuring that the operational status of each link can be accurately monitored and managed.

[0016] Preferably, step S4 includes the following steps: S4.1: Determine whether to perform scheduling based on the model. If yes, proceed to step S4.2; otherwise, end. S4.2: Perform dispatching, notify the drivers who have made reservations, and calculate and determine the number of drivers who need to be notified; S4.3: Determine if there are any unnotified tank trucks. If yes, proceed to step S4.4; otherwise, end. S4.4: Update the job status by notifying the user based on the job number.

[0017] Preferably, in step S4, after the end, a timed scheduling method is used to return to step S1 at intervals of several minutes, and the tanker scheduling control is re-performed based on the current tanker execution status and records.

[0018] The advantage of this design is that, through a timed scheduling mechanism, it can dynamically adapt to real-time changes at the site, continuously optimize scheduling control, and ensure the real-time performance and adaptability of the system.

[0019] Preferably, in step S3, the number of waiting tank trucks that have not yet arrived is controlled by real-time calculation and judgment of the low value coefficient of the number of waiting tank trucks, so as to establish a scheduling model to realize the scheduling control of the arrival of tank trucks.

[0020] The advantage of this design is that it uses real-time calculated low-value coefficients for dynamic control, ensuring the balance of tanker arrivals and the rationality of scheduling, avoiding too many or too few waiting tankers, and improving overall scheduling efficiency.

[0021] Preferably, the method for calculating the low value coefficient of the number of waiting tank cars is as follows: Average filling time (t): refers to the time it takes for the tanker truck to leave the skid from the start of filling to the end of filling. Average operation time (t): refers to the time it takes for a tanker truck to go from entering the site to leaving the site; t Other: refers to the time spent on other operations of the tanker truck, such as multiple safety inspections, etc. This time is taken from the time spent on each step in the operation record (excluding waiting time in the station); t Average arrival time: refers to the average time from notification to arrival and check-in for the tanker truck; n: refers to the number of skids currently available for the tanker.

[0022] Preferably, the scheduling model is as follows: x Waiting number: refers to the total number of tank trucks waiting throughout the entire arrival process; x Number of tank trucks that did not arrive on site: This refers to the number of tank trucks that received notification but did not sign in. Average filling time (t): refers to the time it takes for the tanker truck to leave the skid from the start of filling to the end of filling. Average operation time (t): refers to the time it takes for a tanker truck to go from entering the site to leaving the site; t Average arrival time: refers to the average time from notification to arrival and check-in for the tanker truck; n: The number of skids currently available for the tanker; k: Low value coefficient for the number of waiting tank cars.

[0023] Compared with the prior art, the beneficial effects of the present invention are as follows.

[0024] 1. This invention achieves comprehensive digitalization and automation of the LNG liquid export vehicle dispatching process. Traditional dispatching methods, relying on human experience and manual operation, often suffer from low efficiency and slow response times. This invention, by monitoring the tanker dispatching status of each process node in real time and combining it with quantitative data analysis, enables rapid and accurate dispatching decisions, significantly reducing tanker waiting time and improving overall operational efficiency. Furthermore, the automated dispatching process reduces human intervention, lowers the risk of operational errors, and ensures the continuity and stability of the dispatching process. This not only improves the operational efficiency of LNG receiving terminals but also saves enterprises significant human resource costs, making dispatching management more efficient and reliable.

[0025] 2. This invention ensures fairness and transparency in the scheduling process through a standardized scheduling model and refined data management. Traditional manual scheduling methods are prone to unfairness due to subjective judgment, leading to excessively long waiting times for some drivers or tankers and impacting driver satisfaction and the work environment. This invention, however, utilizes a scientific scheduling algorithm based on real-time data and pre-set scheduling rules to fairly allocate work opportunities, avoiding human bias and improving driver job satisfaction and trust. Simultaneously, the systematic scheduling process enhances the predictability and controllability of operations, reduces safety hazards caused by improper scheduling, and strengthens the overall reliability and safety of operations.

[0026] 3. This invention demonstrates significant advantages in ensuring operational continuity, guaranteeing the stability and efficiency of LNG liquid export vehicle dispatching. By monitoring the tanker dispatching status of each process node in real time, the system can instantly grasp the progress of each stage of the operation, avoiding operational interruptions. Furthermore, the adoption of an automated dispatching model and sequential queuing method makes the transition between tankers between dispatching stages smoother, reducing delays and errors caused by human operation, thereby maintaining the continuity of the operational process. Attached Figure Description

[0027] Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the overall process of a method for scheduling LNG liquid transport vehicles according to the present invention.

[0028] Figure 2 This is a flowchart illustrating the tanker dispatching status of a dispatching method for LNG liquid export vehicles according to the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0029] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this disclosure clearer, the embodiments of this disclosure will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The proportions of the components are not drawn to scale, and the proportions and dimensions shown in the drawings should not limit the essential technical solutions of the invention. These embodiments do not exhaustively describe all details, nor do they limit the invention to merely the specific embodiments described.

[0030] See Figure 1-2 As shown, a method for scheduling LNG liquid transport vehicles includes the following steps: S1: Obtain and monitor the tanker scheduling status of each process node; S2: Obtain statistics for the tank truck scheduling stage based on the tank truck scheduling status and operation status; S3: Calculate the low-value coefficient of the number of waiting tank cars and establish a scheduling model; S4: Schedule the tank trucks according to the scheduling model.

[0031] A dispatching system for LNG liquid transport vehicles, comprising: The main control module receives data from the data acquisition module and determines scheduling instructions through the scheduling model; The data acquisition module obtains real-time data from the device and communication module; The monitoring module receives scheduling instructions and confirms whether they pass, then sends feedback to the communication module. The communication module receives and responds to reservation information from external tank trucks and sends scheduling instructions to the current equipment.

[0032] like Figure 1 In one embodiment shown, Figure 1 This is a flowchart illustrating the overall process of scheduling vehicles for LNG liquid export according to the present invention. This method aims to optimize vehicle scheduling and management during the LNG liquid export process, ensuring the continuity and efficiency of the operational flow through systematic and information-based means. The scheduling method designed in this invention includes four main steps: S1: Obtain and monitor the tanker dispatch status; S2: Obtain the statistics for the tanker scheduling stage based on the scheduling status and operation status; S3: Calculate the low-value coefficient of the number of waiting tank cars and establish a scheduling model; S4: Schedule tank trucks according to the scheduling model.

[0033] In the initial stage of the scheduling process, the system first needs to comprehensively acquire and monitor the status of tank trucks at each node of the entire scheduling process in real time. These statuses include key aspects such as appointment notification and check-in, waiting for security inspection, and filling operations. By recording and statistically analyzing the status of each process node through an information system, this invention can comprehensively grasp the specific situation of each tank truck at different stages. Specifically, this invention records the completion time of each tank truck at each stage in sequence, ensuring the accuracy and real-time nature of the data. In addition, a sequential queue method is used to execute these process steps, ensuring that each stage proceeds in an orderly manner according to a predetermined order. Through real-time monitoring, operational interruptions are avoided, ensuring the continuity and stability of the entire scheduling process.

[0034] After obtaining comprehensive tanker dispatch status, this invention will further analyze and statistically analyze the number of tankers in each dispatch stage based on these statuses and the current operational status. The dispatch stages are mainly divided into the waiting-for-dispatch-notification stage, the on-the-go-but-not-arrived stage, the arrived-and-waiting stage, and the operational stage, specifically including the following statistics: Statistics for the pending dispatch notification stage: This includes the number of reservations, i.e., the number of tank trucks that have been reserved but have not yet been notified to the driver.

[0035] Statistics on vehicles not yet on site: This includes the number of vehicles that have been notified, i.e., the number of tank trucks that have received dispatch notifications but have not yet arrived at the work site.

[0036] Statistics on the number of tank trucks that have arrived at the work site but are waiting at various stages: including the number of tank trucks waiting outside the station, the number of tank trucks waiting in the parking lot inside the station, the number of tank trucks waiting for security checks, and the number of tank trucks queuing on the roads inside the station.

[0037] Operational phase statistics: including the number of operations in the filling area, i.e. the number of tank trucks currently performing filling operations.

[0038] By statistically analyzing the number of tank cars at these stages, this invention can gain a comprehensive understanding of the resource distribution in the current scheduling process, providing a scientific basis for subsequent scheduling decisions.

[0039] After completing the tanker dispatching phase statistics, this invention further calculates a low-value coefficient for the number of waiting tankers to control the number of tankers that have not yet arrived while in transit. The calculation of the low-value coefficient is based on real-time data and real-time dispatching requirements, aiming to avoid resource waste due to too many tankers arriving simultaneously, or operational inefficiency due to too few tankers. Through real-time calculation and judgment of the low-value coefficient, this invention can dynamically adjust the dispatching strategy, ensuring that the dispatching model always adapts to the current operational needs and resource conditions. The method for calculating the low-value coefficient for the number of waiting tankers is as follows: t 平均充装耗时 : This refers to the time it takes for the tanker truck to leave the skid after filling begins and ends; t 平均作业耗时 : The time taken for the tanker truck to go from entering the site to leaving the site; t 其余 This refers to the time spent on other operations of the tanker truck, such as multiple safety inspections. This time is taken from the time spent on each step in the operation record (excluding waiting time within the station). t 平均到场 : The average time from notification to arrival and check-in for the tanker truck; n: refers to the number of skids currently available for the tanker.

[0040] Based on this, the present invention establishes a scientific scheduling model. This model comprehensively considers various factors such as the scheduling status of tank trucks, operational requirements, and resource allocation, aiming to achieve optimal control over the arrival timing of tank trucks. The scheduling model can ensure that the scheduling strategy is forward-looking and flexible based on current scheduling needs. The establishment of this model makes the scheduling process more intelligent and refined, effectively improving the overall efficiency and accuracy of scheduling. The scheduling model is specifically as follows: x 到场等待数 : The number of tank trucks waiting throughout the entire process of arriving at the site; x 行驶未到场槽车数 : The number of tank trucks that received notification but did not sign in; t 平均充装耗时: This refers to the time it takes for the tanker truck to leave the skid after filling begins and ends; t 平均作业耗时 : The time taken for the tanker truck to go from entering the site to leaving the site; t 平均到场 : The average time from notification to arrival and check-in for the tanker truck; n: The number of skids currently available for the tanker; k: Low value coefficient for the number of waiting tank cars.

[0041] After establishing the scheduling model, this invention will perform specific scheduling operations on tank trucks based on the model. Step S4 is divided into four sub-steps: S4.1: Determine whether to perform scheduling based on the model; First, based on the output of the scheduling model, this invention determines whether a new scheduling operation is needed. If scheduling is needed, it proceeds to the next step; otherwise, it ends the current scheduling cycle and waits for the next scheduling opportunity.

[0042] S4.2: Dispatch and notify the drivers who have made reservations; Once it is determined that dispatching is required, this invention will notify the drivers who have already made reservations. Based on the current operational needs and the recommendations of the dispatching model, this invention will calculate and determine the number of drivers that need to be notified, ensuring the accuracy and effectiveness of the notification.

[0043] S4.3: Determine if there are any unnotified tank trucks; This invention checks for any unnotified tank cars. If any unnotified tank cars remain, the process proceeds to the next step; if all tank cars have been notified, the scheduling operation ends.

[0044] S4.4: Update the job status by notifying the user based on the queue number; For tank trucks that have not yet been notified, this invention will notify them according to the order of their queuing numbers and update their operating status in a timely manner to ensure the orderly progress of the scheduling process and the real-time synchronization of information.

[0045] After completing the above sub-steps, the present invention employs a timed scheduling method, returning to step S1 at intervals of several minutes to re-acquire the latest tank truck execution status and records, thereby continuously performing dynamic tank truck scheduling control. This feedback mechanism ensures that the scheduling process can adapt to changes in the field in real time, maintaining the continuity and stability of the work process.

[0046] In another embodiment, because LNG is a hazardous chemical, its transportation operations during liquid export are affected by the geographical location of the receiving terminal and local transportation regulatory requirements, resulting in a lack of a unified and standardized vehicle dispatching and control strategy. This lack of strategy not only affects the operational efficiency of LNG receiving terminals but also makes it difficult to meet local regulatory standards for vehicle flow control. To address this issue, the present invention designs a dispatching method for LNG liquid export vehicles that can improve the efficiency of vehicle entry operations, reduce reliance on manual intervention, and ensure that vehicle flow control fully complies with local regulatory requirements. During the reservation-to-check-in stage, since tank trucks may be located physically far from the terminal, and to effectively control the number of vehicles stationed off-site, a refined reservation-notification-check-in process is needed to control tank truck arrivals. This process requires estimation based on the terminal's dispatching status and consideration of the actual distance traveled by the tank trucks, with advance notification to ensure timely arrival, thereby achieving continuity and efficiency in subsequent dispatching processes.

[0047] Based on the status, it can be further subdivided into four stages: awaiting dispatch notification, en route and not yet arrived, already arrived and waiting, and in operation. Dispatch control is based on the number of tank trucks in these four stages. Among them, being en route and not yet arrived is a variable whose time cannot be precisely controlled. The other stages can be clearly defined in terms of status and operation time through the on-site operation status records, allowing for refined dispatch control. Therefore, one of the key points of dispatch control is to control and quantify the number of tank trucks that are en route and not yet arrived, ensuring that the number of waiting vehicles outside the site does not exceed the number of vehicles required by safety regulations when they arrive. At the same time, it is also necessary to avoid the number of arrived vehicles waiting outside the site remaining at a low value for a long time (the low value is the number of tank truck skids * k; when k is 1.3, that is, the number of skids in the site is 30, and the number of arrived vehicles waiting should not be lower than 39 for a long time).

[0048] Tank truck filling at LNG receiving terminals is a parallel operation requiring multiple skids to operate simultaneously. However, due to access restrictions, tank trucks cannot leave at the same time and must depart sequentially. Each time a tank truck completes filling and departs, the vacated skid should be immediately filled by the next tank truck in the waiting area to begin a new filling operation. This continuous process is crucial for maintaining operational consistency. For tank trucks already at the terminal awaiting filling, they are notified to enter for filling at regular intervals. Since the filling time is essentially fixed, the more skids available at the terminal, the shorter the tank truck dispatch interval.

[0049] To ensure the continuity of filling operations, the number of tank trucks in the waiting area must be maintained at a reasonable level. At least within a single tank truck filling cycle, all skids should be able to operate continuously. However, precisely implementing a "one-out, one-in" strategy becomes challenging because it is difficult to achieve a complete balance between waiting times in other parts of the facility and travel time outside the facility.

[0050] Therefore, the number of tank trucks already waiting should be slightly more than the number of skids required in a single work cycle. This creates a buffer to accommodate fluctuations in on-site operation time and changes in the average arrival time of tank trucks. This strategy prevents subsequent stages from becoming idle due to excessively rapid tank truck scheduling, thus affecting the continuity of operations. Therefore, this invention, through precise calculation and dynamic adjustment, ensures that tank truck scheduling meets the filling needs of skids while avoiding congestion and resource waste caused by excessive tank trucks. Based on a clear scheduling model, necessary quantitative data can be recorded and statistically analyzed using an information system. The tank truck scheduling status is recorded as needed, sequentially recording the completion time of each stage. Based on the time points and scheduling status, the tank truck status can be categorized into statistical data for each tank truck scheduling stage. Finally, a timed scheduling method (e.g., every minute) is used to control tank truck scheduling based on the current tank truck execution status and records.

[0051] In this embodiment, the mapping relationship between records and states is shown in the following table: This invention optimizes the scheduling and management of tank trucks during the liquefied natural gas (LNG) transportation process through automation and information technology, significantly improving the continuity and efficiency of the overall operation. Firstly, this method acquires and comprehensively monitors the status of tank trucks at each scheduling node in real time, including key stages such as appointment notification and check-in, waiting for safety inspection, and filling operations, ensuring the accuracy and real-time nature of the scheduling data. This detailed status recording and statistics allow managers to fully grasp the dynamic status of each tank truck at different stages, avoiding information silos and improving the transparency and controllability of the overall scheduling.

[0052] Secondly, through in-depth analysis and statistics of scheduling and operational status, this invention significantly optimizes resource allocation. The tanker scheduling phase is subdivided into stages of awaiting scheduling notification, en route but not yet arrived, arrived and waiting, and operation. The number of tankers in each stage is statistically analyzed, ensuring that scheduling decisions are based on scientific evidence and accurately reflect the current distribution of resources. This not only effectively prevents resource waste and scheduling congestion but also ensures efficient operation and improves overall operational efficiency.

[0053] Building upon this foundation, the present invention further introduces the calculation of a low-value coefficient for the number of waiting tank trucks, dynamically controlling the number of tank trucks that have not yet arrived while in transit. By comprehensively considering multiple indicators such as average filling time, average operation time, other operation time, average arrival time, and the number of available skids, the low-value coefficient can adjust the scheduling strategy in real time, flexibly responding to changes in on-site operational needs and resource conditions. This dynamic adjustment mechanism makes the scheduling process more intelligent and refined, significantly improving the adaptability and foresight of the scheduling model, ensuring optimal scheduling results under different circumstances.

[0054] The establishment of the scheduling model is a major highlight of this invention. It comprehensively considers various factors such as the scheduling status of tank trucks, operational requirements, and resource allocation, achieving optimal control over the arrival timing of tank trucks. Through this scientific scheduling model, the scheduling strategy is not only highly efficient but also flexible and forward-looking, capable of responding promptly to changes on-site and maintaining the continuity and stability of the operational process. Furthermore, the intelligent and refined design of the scheduling model reduces human intervention in the scheduling process, lowers the risk of operational errors, and improves the overall accuracy and reliability of scheduling.

[0055] In the specific scheduling operation steps, this invention employs four sub-steps: determining whether scheduling is needed, notifying reserved drivers, checking unnotified tank trucks, and updating the operation status according to the queue number. This series of steps ensures the orderly progress of the scheduling process and real-time information synchronization, avoiding confusion and delays during scheduling. Simultaneously, the feedback mechanism of timed scheduling ensures that the system can continuously monitor and adjust scheduling strategies, adapt to dynamic changes on-site, and maintain the efficiency and stability of the scheduling process.

[0056] Overall, this invention significantly improves the efficiency and accuracy of tanker dispatch management in the LNG liquid export process through comprehensive and real-time monitoring and statistics, a scientific dispatch model, dynamic strategy adjustments, and orderly dispatch operations. Its information-based and systematic management methods not only optimize resource allocation, reduce waiting time, and improve operational efficiency, but also enhance the flexibility and responsiveness of the dispatch process, ensuring the continuity and stability of the entire dispatch flow.

[0057] like Figure 2 In one embodiment shown, Figure 2This is a flowchart illustrating the tanker dispatching status of a LNG liquid export vehicle dispatching method according to the present invention. Tanker operations at LNG receiving terminals are a complex process involving multiple stages. The main process includes eight core nodes: reservation, notification, check-in, waiting outside the filling area, security check, entering the filling area, filling operation, and departure. However, due to differences in the internal structure and operating procedures of various receiving terminals—for example, some terminals may lack parking spaces within the terminal or require queuing for security checks outside the terminal—five additional stages may be added between waiting outside the filling area and security checks, expanding the entire process to 13 steps. These additional stages include: waiting outside the terminal, waiting at the terminal parking area, waiting for security checks, queuing on the terminal road, and security checks upon entering the filling area. During tanker dispatching, a sequential queue method is typically used to execute these process steps sequentially. The system monitors the status of each process node, and once a vacancy becomes available at a subsequent node, the tanker from the preceding node is dispatched to that node to ensure operational continuity.

[0058] In one embodiment, the LNG liquid export vehicle dispatching system designed by the present invention includes the following modules: a main control module, which serves as the core of the entire system, responsible for coordinating the workflow of each module, executing dispatching algorithms, making dispatching decisions, and monitoring the overall operating status of the system. After receiving data from the data acquisition module and the monitoring feedback module, it calls the dispatching model module to perform dispatching calculations, issues dispatching instructions to the communication module based on the calculation results, stores the decision results in the database module, and feeds them back to the user interface module.

[0059] The data acquisition module is responsible for collecting various data related to tanker dispatch in real time, including tanker location information, operation status, filling time, arrival time, etc. After acquiring real-time data from on-site sensors, barcode scanning devices, GPS systems, etc., the collected data is transmitted to the database module for storage, and the latest operation and vehicle status data is provided to the main control module.

[0060] The scheduling model module implements scheduling algorithms, including calculating the low-value coefficient of the number of waiting tank cars and predicting vehicle arrival, to achieve intelligent scheduling control. After obtaining the necessary historical and real-time data from the database module, it accepts the scheduling request from the main control module, performs scheduling calculations, and feeds back the scheduling results to the main control module for issuing specific scheduling instructions.

[0061] The communication module is responsible for information transmission with tanker truck drivers and relevant personnel, including issuing dispatch notifications and receiving feedback. Upon receiving dispatch instructions from the main control module, it notifies the tanker truck driver via SMS, app push notifications, electronic dashboards, etc., waits for and receives feedback from the driver (such as arrival confirmation and anomaly reports), and transmits this information to the database module and the main control module. The communication module supports real-time two-way communication to ensure timely delivery and feedback of dispatch information.

[0062] The user interface module provides a visual interface for dispatchers and managers, displaying dispatch status, job progress, statistical reports, etc. The user interface module retrieves the latest dispatch data and statistical information from the database module, accepts manual dispatch operations from users or dispatch decisions suggested by the system, and can also display real-time status information provided by the main control module and monitoring feedback module.

[0063] The database module stores all scheduling-related data, including real-time data, historical data, and scheduling model parameters. It receives real-time data uploaded by the data acquisition module and provides the data support required by the scheduling model module and the main control module. It also stores the display data required by the user interface module and the monitoring feedback module, ensuring data security and integrity, and supports rapid data retrieval and updates.

[0064] The monitoring and feedback module monitors the actual execution of operations at the site in real time, collects feedback information during execution, and ensures the smooth progress of the scheduling process. The workflow is as follows: it obtains real-time operation status and abnormal information from the data acquisition module, reports problems during execution to the main control module, triggers dynamic adjustments to the scheduling model, and displays real-time monitoring charts and alarm information to the user interface module.

[0065] The method flow designed in this invention can be realized through collaboration between system modules: Data acquisition: After the tanker truck enters the station, each sensor and device uploads the status and location information of the tanker truck to the database module in real time through the data acquisition module; The main control module periodically retrieves the latest data from the database module, calls the scheduling model module to perform scheduling algorithm calculations, and generates new scheduling instructions. Once the notification is executed, the dispatching instruction is sent to the corresponding tanker driver via the notification and communication module, and the driver operates according to the instruction after receiving the notification. Feedback monitoring: After the tank truck executes the scheduling command, the execution result is uploaded through the data acquisition module. The monitoring and feedback module monitors the execution status in real time and transmits the feedback information to the main control module. Dynamic adjustment: If anomalies are detected during monitoring or there is a need for adjustment in the feedback, the main control module will call the scheduling model module again to perform dynamic scheduling adjustment and optimize the scheduling scheme. User interaction allows dispatchers to view real-time dispatch status through user interface modules, manually intervene or confirm system-suggested dispatch decisions, ensuring the overall flexibility and accuracy of dispatching.

[0066] In summary, this invention proposes a method for optimizing tanker dispatching in the liquefied natural gas (LNG) liquid transportation process. Through automation and information technology, it improves the continuity and efficiency of the operational process. This method includes four main steps: S1 acquiring and monitoring the tanker dispatching status of each process node; S2 calculating the number of tankers in each dispatching stage based on the dispatching and operational status; S3 calculating the low-value coefficient for waiting tankers and establishing a dispatching model; and S4 performing specific dispatching operations based on the dispatching model. In the initial stage, the status of tankers in key stages such as reservation, notification, safety inspection, and filling is monitored in real time to ensure data accuracy and real-time performance. By subdividing the dispatching stages and calculating the number of tankers in each stage, resource allocation is optimized to avoid resource waste and dispatch congestion. The introduction of a low-value coefficient for waiting tankers dynamically controls the number of absent tankers, flexibly adjusting the dispatching strategy and improving the adaptability and foresight of the dispatching model. The dispatching model comprehensively considers tanker status, operational needs, and resource allocation to achieve optimal control of tanker arrival timing, reducing manual intervention and improving dispatching accuracy and reliability. The overall approach significantly improves operational efficiency and scheduling management in the LNG export process through automated monitoring, scientific statistics, and intelligent scheduling, ensuring process continuity and stability.

[0067] This invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Any changes made to its shape or material composition, or any structural design using the methods provided by this invention, are considered variations of this invention and should be considered within the scope of protection of this invention.

Claims

1. A method for scheduling LNG liquid export vehicles, characterized in that, Includes the following steps: S1: In each tanker dispatch status, the necessary quantitative data is recorded and statistically analyzed through the information system. The tanker dispatch status is recorded as needed, the completion time of each link is recorded in sequence, and the processes are executed sequentially in the queue. S2: Obtain statistics for the tank truck scheduling stage based on the tank truck scheduling status and operation status; S3: Calculate the low value coefficient for the number of waiting tank trucks, which is the product of the number of available tank trucks and the average arrival time, divided by the product of the number of available tank trucks minus one, the average filling time, and one plus the ratio of the remaining operation time to the average total operation time, and finally add one; and establish a scheduling model, multiply the number of available tank trucks, the low value coefficient for waiting tank trucks, and the sum of the average operation time and the average arrival time, and divide by the average filling time. The result is equal to the sum of the number of waiting tank trucks and the number of tank trucks that have not yet arrived. S4: Schedule the tank trucks according to the scheduling model.

2. The method for scheduling LNG liquid export vehicles according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tanker dispatch status includes reservation notification check-in, waiting for safety inspection, and filling operation. During the reservation notification check-in stage, the status of the dispatch within the station is estimated, and the actual distance required for the tanker to travel is taken into account, and the notification is given in advance. In each tanker scheduling state, the status of each process node is monitored. Once a subsequent node has an available slot, the tanker from the preceding node will be scheduled to the subsequent node.

3. A method for dispatching LNG liquid export vehicles according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, In step S2, the tank truck status is sequentially classified into tank truck scheduling stage statistics based on the time point and scheduling status. The tank truck scheduling stage includes the waiting for scheduling notification stage, the stage of being in motion and not yet arrived, the stage of being arrived and waiting, and the operation stage. The tank truck scheduling stage statistics are obtained based on the number of tank trucks in each stage status to control the scheduling. In the tank truck scheduling stage, except for the stage of being in motion and not yet arrived, which is a variable whose time cannot be precisely controlled, the status and operation time of the other processes are obtained through the on-site operation status record.

4. The method for scheduling LNG liquid export vehicles according to claim 3, characterized in that, In the tanker dispatching phase, the statistics in the pending dispatching notification phase include the number of reservations, the statistics in the driving-not-arrived phase include the number of notifications, the statistics in the arrived-and-waiting phase include the number of waiting outside the station, the number of waiting in the parking lot and security check inside the station, and the number of queues on the roads inside the station, and the operation phase includes the number of operations in the filling area.

5. A method for dispatching LNG liquid export vehicles according to claim 1, 2, or 4, characterized in that, Step S4 includes the following steps: S4.1: Determine whether to perform scheduling based on the model. If yes, proceed to step S4.2; otherwise, end. S4.2: Perform dispatching, notify the drivers who have made reservations, and calculate and determine the number of drivers who need to be notified; S4.3: Determine if there are any unnotified tank trucks. If yes, proceed to step S4.4; otherwise, end. S4.4: Update the job status by notifying the user based on the job number.

6. The method for scheduling LNG liquid export vehicles according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S4, after the end, a timed scheduling method is used to return to step S1 at intervals of several minutes, and the tank truck scheduling control is re-performed based on the current tank truck execution status and records.

7. The method for scheduling LNG liquid export vehicles according to claim 1, characterized in that, In step S3, the number of waiting tank cars is controlled by real-time calculation and judgment of the low value coefficient of the number of waiting tank cars, and a scheduling model is established to realize the scheduling control of the arrival of tank cars.

8. A scheduling system for LNG liquid export vehicles, employing the scheduling method for LNG liquid export vehicles as described in any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, include: The main control module receives data from the data acquisition module and determines scheduling instructions through the scheduling model; The data acquisition module obtains real-time data from the device and communication module; The monitoring module receives scheduling instructions and confirms whether they pass, then sends feedback to the communication module. The communication module receives and responds to reservation information from external tank trucks and sends scheduling instructions to the current equipment.

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