Computer-implemented method and system for managing aviation resource bidding flows

Abstract

In some aspects, a computer-implemented method for managing an aviation resource bidding process is provided. The method may include obtaining, by a sales module, aviation resource bid invitation data associated with at least one airline; creating, by the sales module, aeronautical resource bid reply data, the aeronautical resource bid reply data configured to respond to the aeronautical resource bid invitation data; the supplier module includes the quotation data into resource bidding reply data; developing, by the sales module, a provisioning policy based on the offer data, where the developing includes calculating, by the sales module, an estimate based on the provisioning policy, the estimate based on the provisioning amount and the discount parameter; and submitting, by the sales module, the resource bid reply data, the provisioning policy, and the offer to a processor associated with the airline.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Various aspects relate to methods, systems, and non-transitory computer-readable media for managing an aviation resource allocation / bidding process. These methods, systems, and non-transitory computer-readable media can be applied to manage the bidding process for aviation fuel for various airlines and airports. Background Art

[0002] The following discussion of the background of the invention is intended to facilitate understanding of the invention. However, it should be appreciated that the discussion is not an admission or admission that any of the material referred to was published, known or part of the common general knowledge in any jurisdiction as at the priority date of the application.

[0003] The sale of aviation market resources (such as aviation fuel) is an important aspect of any aviation resource supply company. In the context of the expansion and globalization of aviation resource supply companies, a typical process may include bidding for aviation resources. As the aviation market sales business continues to develop, the management of the aviation resource bidding process may bring many challenges. Typically, aviation resource supply companies can manage the aviation market bidding of one or more subsidiaries / units by regularly collecting manual data and then aggregating and reporting. Such conventional management lacks centralization, integration and standardization. In addition, such conventional management processes may face problems such as untimely reporting and inaccurate data.

[0004] There is a need for an improved aviation market bidding management platform. There is also a need for an efficient data processing method that provides data associated with the management and bidding platform in a secure and reliable manner. Summary of the invention

[0005] The technical solution seeks to provide a system, method and management platform for aviation resource allocation. In some aspects, the management platform can take into account historical experience of previous processes and data in aviation resource management. One or more modules can be implemented to model the entire process of bid management in an integrated manner.

[0006] In some embodiments, a full process management method is provided. This can include a process flow from obtaining resource bidding quotation data (e.g., receiving a bidding invitation) to the end of the bidding process. In the context of aviation resource management, the bidding management process may involve the collection and storage of data (such as airline and airport information, customer information, supply sales volume and price, winning and losing results, etc.). The aforementioned data can be stored and reviewed, and the approved bidding decisions can be analyzed for possible reasons for winning and losing, thereby improving future bidding efficiency, success rate and accuracy. In some embodiments, the system can be configured to implement statistical analysis of online bidding data, process solidification and historical data to provide quotation references. Such a system advantageously improves information integration and work efficiency. Various credit limits and risk exposures can be well controlled.

[0007] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a computer-implemented method for managing an airline resource bidding process is provided, the method comprising the following steps: obtaining, by a sales module, resource bidding quotation data associated with at least one airline; creating, by the sales module, resource bidding reply data, the resource bidding reply data being configured to be responsive to the resource bidding quotation data; appending, by a supplier module, quotation data to the resource bidding reply data; developing a supply strategy based on the quotation data; calculating an estimate based on the supply strategy, the estimate being based on a supply quantity and a discount parameter; and submitting, by the sales module, the resource bidding reply data and the quotation to a processor associated with the airline.

[0008] One or more of the above modules may be combined.

[0009] According to another aspect of the present disclosure, a system for managing an airline resource bidding process is provided, the system comprising a processor, the processor comprising a sales module and a supplier module, and being configured to: obtain airline resource bidding invitation data associated with at least one airline through the sales module; create airline resource bidding reply data by the sales module, the airline resource bidding reply data being configured to respond to the airline resource bidding invitation data; attach quotation data to the resource bidding reply data by the supplier module; develop a supply strategy based on the quotation data by the sales module, wherein the development comprises calculating an estimate based on the supply strategy, the estimate being based on a supply quantity and a discount parameter; and submit the resource bidding reply data, the supply strategy, and the quotation to another processor associated with the airline by the sales module. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Throughout the drawings, it should be noted that the same reference numerals are used to describe the same or similar elements, features, and structures. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, but emphasis is generally placed on illustrating aspects of the present disclosure. In the following description, some aspects of the present disclosure are described with reference to the following drawings, in which: Figure 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary electronic device for managing an aviation resource bidding process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary system for managing an aviation resource bidding process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 3 An exemplary system according to the present disclosure is shown, the system comprising a sales module and a supplier module; Figure 4A is a flow chart illustrating the data flow of management of an aviation resource bidding process according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 4B , Figure 4C , Figure 4D and Figure 4E shows exemplary data structures and parameters of different modules of the aviation resource bidding management system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure; Figure 5A , Figure 5B , Figure 5C , Figure 5D , Figure 5E , Fig. 5F and Figure 5G Various embodiments of user interfaces (eg, GUIs) used by users of the system 200 to log in and perform basic data manipulation and viewing are illustrated; FIG. 6A(i) to FIG. 6A(iii) , FIG. 6B(i) to FIG. 6B(iii) , FIG. 6C(i) to FIG. 6C(iii) , FIG. 6D(i) to FIG. 6D(viii) , FIG. 6E(i) to FIG. 6E(iii) , FIG. 6F(i) to FIG. 6F(x) , Figure 6G(i) to Figure 6G(viii) , Figure 6H(i) to Figure 6H(iii) , Figure 6I(i) to Figure 6I(iv) , Figure 6J(i) to Figure 6J(iv) , Figure 6K(i) to Figure 6K(iii) , Figures 6L(i) to 6L(iii) , Figures 6M(i) to 6M(ii) as well as Figure 6N illustrates various embodiments of a user interface (such as a GUI) for one or more authorized users to provide user input according to the present disclosure; and Figure 7 An overall flow chart describing a method for managing an aviation resource bidding process according to the present disclosure is shown. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] The following detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which show the specific details and aspects that the present disclosure can implement by way of example. One or more aspects are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to practice the present disclosure. Other aspects may be utilized, and structural, logical and / or electrical changes may be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The various aspects of the present disclosure are not necessarily mutually exclusive, as some aspects may be combined with one or more other aspects to form new aspects or embodiments. Various aspects are described in conjunction with methods, and various aspects are described in conjunction with devices. However, it is understood that the aspects described in conjunction with methods may be similarly applied to devices, and vice versa.

[0012] It should be understood that the singular terms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the word "or" is intended to include "and" unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0013] It will be further understood that the terms "comprise" (and any form of including, such as "comprises" and "comprising"), "have" (and any form of have, such as "has" and "having"), "include" (and any form of including, such as "includes" and "including"), and "contain" (and any form of containing, such as "contains" and "containing") are open-ended linking verbs. Thus, a method or apparatus that "comprises," "has," "includes," or "contains" one or more steps or elements possesses the one or more steps or elements, but is not limited to possessing only the one or more steps or elements. Similarly, a method step or apparatus element that "comprises," "has," "includes," or "contains" one or more features possesses the one or more features, but is not limited to possessing only the one or more features. Furthermore, a device or structure that is configured in a particular way is configured in at least that way, but may also be configured in ways that are not listed.

[0014] Approximate language used in this specification and claims may be used to modify any quantitative representation that may be permitted to vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, values ​​modified by one or more terms (such as "about", "substantially") are not limited to the exact value specified, but are within an acceptable tolerance range for the operation of the embodiment for its intended application. In some cases, the approximate language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value.

[0015] As used herein, the term “exemplary” may mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs.

[0016] The terms "at least one" and "one or more" may be understood to include values ​​greater than or equal to 1 (e.g., 1, 2, 3, 4, ..., etc.). The term "plurality" may be understood to include values ​​greater than or equal to 2 (e.g., 2, 3, 4, 5, ..., etc.). The phrase "at least one of..." with respect to a group of elements may be used herein to indicate at least one element selected from the group consisting of the elements. For example, the phrase "at least one of..." with respect to a group of elements may be used herein to indicate a selection from: one of the listed elements, a plurality of one of the listed elements, a plurality of individual listed elements, or a plurality of multiples of the listed elements.

[0017] The words "plurality" and "multiple" in the specification and claims expressly refer to a number greater than one. Accordingly, any phrase that expressly refers to the preceding words referring to a number of objects (e.g., "plurality of (objects)", "plurality of (objects)") refers to more than one of the objects. The terms "group (of), "group (of), "set (of), "series (of), "sequence (of), "group (of)," and the like in the specification and claims, if any, refer to a number equal to or greater than one, i.e., one or more.

[0018] The term "data" as used herein may be understood to include information in any suitable analog or digital form, for example, provided as a file, a portion of a file, a group of files, a signal or stream, a portion of a signal or stream, a group of signals or streams, etc. Further, the term "data" may also be used to represent a reference to information, such as in the form of a pointer. However, the term "data" is not limited to the above examples, but may take various forms and represent any information understood in the art. As described herein, any type of information may be processed in a suitable manner (e.g., as data), for example, via one or more processors.

[0019] The term "bid data" refers to data associated with providing a bid for an aviation resource. The aviation resource may include aviation fuel, such as aviation turbine fuel or jet fuel. In some embodiments, the jet fuel may include sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). In some embodiments, the bid data may be appropriately protected or encrypted. Such encryption may include providing an appropriately complex data structure, and / or converting the data into ciphertext that may be decrypted using a unique decryption key.

[0020] The terms "association," "associated," and "associate" may indicate a defined relationship (or cross-reference) between two items. For example, one or more airports may be associated with an airline. Such an association may be based on, for example, one or more aircraft of the airline being allocated a time slot or space at the airport to receive aviation resources, such as refueling the aircraft.

[0021] The term "processor" used herein may be understood as any kind of entity that allows processing of data. Data may be processed according to one or more specific functions performed by a processor or controller. Further, a processor or controller as used herein may be understood as any kind of circuit, such as any kind of analog or digital circuit. Therefore, a processor or controller may be or include an analog circuit, a digital circuit, a mixed signal circuit, a logic circuit, a processor, a microprocessor, a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a digital signal processor (DSP), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), an integrated circuit, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc., or any combination thereof. Any other kind of implementation of each function, which will be described in further detail below, may also be understood as a processor, a controller, or a logic circuit. It should be understood that any two (or more) of the processors, controllers, or logic circuits described in detail herein may be implemented as a single entity with equivalent functions, etc., and, conversely, any single processor, controller, or logic circuit described in detail herein may be implemented as two (or more) separate entities with equivalent functions, etc.

[0022] The term “memory” described in detail herein may be understood to include any suitable type of memory or storage device, such as a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), flash memory, and the like.

[0023] The term "module" as used in detail herein refers to an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or forms part of or includes an application specific integrated circuit; an electronic circuit; a combinational logic circuit; a field programmable gate array (FPGA); a processor (shared, dedicated, or group) that executes code; other suitable hardware components that provide the described functionality; or a combination of some or all of the above, such as in a system on a chip. The term "module" may include a memory (shared, dedicated, or group) that stores code executed by a processor.

[0024] The distinction between software and hardware implemented data processing can become blurred. The processors, controllers and / or circuits described in detail herein may be implemented in software, hardware and / or a hybrid implementation including software and hardware.

[0025] The term "system" (e.g., aviation resource management system, bidding system, computing system, etc.) described in detail herein may be understood as a set of interacting elements, where, by way of example and not limitation, these elements may be one or more mechanical components, one or more electronic components, one or more instructions (e.g., encoded in a storage medium), and / or one or more processors, etc.

[0026] The terms "first", "second", and "third" described in detail herein are used to distinguish one element from another similar element and do not necessarily indicate order or relative importance unless otherwise indicated in the form of priority. For example, first bidding data and second bidding data can be used to distinguish two bidding transactions executed in two different time periods.

[0027] The term "airline" as described in detail herein refers to an organization that owns or is associated with one or more aircraft. One or more aircraft may be configured for commonly scheduled air transportation between specific geographic locations. Air transportation may be for cargo and / or passengers.

[0028] The term "airport" as described in detail herein refers broadly to any area where aircraft at least perform the functions of taking off, landing, and / or providing aviation resources to aircraft. An airport may include an open space accessible by air that includes at least one operational surface, such as a runway or helipad for aircraft to take off and land. In some embodiments, an airport may include infrastructure for maintaining aircraft or providing aviation resources (such as aviation fuel).

[0029] The term "supply strategy" as described in detail herein broadly includes supply chain network management of aviation resources and may include processes such as scheduling the movement / transportation of aviation resources from various sources and destinations.

[0030] According to various aspects, a method for managing an airline resource bidding process may include: obtaining, by a sales module, resource bidding quotation data associated with at least one airline; developing a supply strategy based on the quotation data; calculating an estimate based on the supply strategy, the estimate being based on a supply quantity and a discount parameter; and submitting, by the sales module, resource bidding response data and the quotation to a processor associated with the airline. In some embodiments, the processor may be part of the airline module 202. In other embodiments, the processor may be a processor separate from the airline module 202.

[0031] In some cases, aspects of the systems and methods described herein provide technical improvements and advantages over existing methods. For example, the proposed systems and methods can provide a technical solution to improve the efficiency of the aviation resource bidding process. This can be an improvement over the existing technology, in which the resource bidding process can be performed manually and / or one by one. The use of a centralized system that receives data from various modules as input and the use of historical bidding data that can be pre-stored in a dedicated database provides an integrated system that improves data flow and efficiency.

[0032] The following examples relate to various aspects and embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0033] Figure 1 1 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary electronic device 100 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The electronic device 100 may be a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a tablet computer, an automobile computer, a smart phone, a personal digital assistant, a server, or other electronic device capable of running computer applications. In some embodiments, the electronic device 100 includes a processor 102, an input / output (I / O) module 104, a memory 106, a power supply unit 108, and one or more network interfaces 110. The electronic device 100 may include additional components. In some embodiments, the processor 102, the input / output (I / O) module 104, the memory 106, the power supply unit 108, and the network interface 110 are housed together in a common housing or other assembly.

[0034] The processor 102 may execute instructions, for example, to generate output data based on data input. The instructions may include programs, codes, scripts, or other types of data stored in a memory (e.g., memory 106). Additionally or alternatively, the instructions may be encoded as pre-programmed or reprogrammable logic circuits, logic gates, or other types of hardware or firmware components or modules. The processor 102 may be or may include a multi-core processor having multiple cores, and each such core may have an independent power domain, and may be configured to enter and exit different operating or performance states based on workload. Additionally or alternatively, the processor 102 may be or may include a general-purpose microprocessor, as a dedicated co-processor or another type of data processing device. In some cases, the processor 102 performs high-level operations of the electronic device 100. For example, the processor 102 may be configured to execute or interpret software, scripts, programs, functions, executable programs, or other instructions stored in the memory 106.

[0035] Exemplary I / O modules 104 may include a mouse, a keypad, a touch screen, a scanner, an optical reader, and / or a stylus (or other input device) through which a user of electronic device 100 can provide input to electronic device 100, and may also include one or more audio speakers for providing audio output and a video display device for providing text, audiovisual, and / or graphical output. I / O modules 104 may be configured to display a plurality of graphical user interfaces (GUIs), such as FIG. 5A to FIG. 5G Multiple GUIs can be accessed by one or more authorized users through secure access.

[0036] Exemplary memory 106 may include computer-readable storage media, such as volatile memory devices, non-volatile memory devices, or both. Memory 106 may include one or more read-only memory devices, random access memory devices, buffer memory devices, or a combination of these and other types of memory devices. In some cases, one or more components of the memory may be integrated into another component of the electronic device 100, or associated with another component of the electronic device. Memory 106 may store instructions that may be executed by processor 102. In some examples, memory 106 may store instructions for operating system 112 and application 114. Memory 106 may also store database 116.

[0037] An exemplary power supply unit 108 provides power to other components of the electronic device 100. For example, the other components may operate based on the electrical power provided by the power supply unit 108 through a voltage bus or other connection. In some embodiments, the power supply unit 108 includes a battery or battery system, such as a rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the power supply unit 108 includes an adapter (e.g., an AC adapter) that receives an external power signal (from an external source) and converts the external power signal into an internal power signal regulated for the components of the electronic device 100. The power supply unit 108 may include other components or operate in another manner.

[0038] The electronic device 100 may be configured to operate in a wireless, wired or cloud network environment (or a combination thereof). In some embodiments, the electronic device 100 may access a network using a network interface 110. The network interface 110 may include one or more adapters, modems, connectors, sockets, terminals, ports, slots, etc. The wireless network accessed by the electronic device 100 may be operated, for example, according to a wireless network standard or another type of wireless communication protocol. For example, the wireless network may be configured to operate as a wireless local area network (WLAN), a personal area network (PAN), a metropolitan area network (MAN), or another type of wireless network. Examples of WLANs include networks configured to operate according to one or more standards in the 802.11 family of standards developed by IEEE (e.g., Wi-Fi networks), etc. Examples of PANs include networks operating according to short-range communication standards (e.g., Bluetooth, near field communication (NFC), ZigBee), millimeter wave communications, etc. The wired network accessed by the electronic device 100 may include, for example, Ethernet, SONET, circuit switching networks (e.g., using components such as SS7, cables, etc.), etc.

[0039] Processor 102 may be used to execute a computer-implemented method for managing an aviation resource bidding process in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0040] Figure 2 is a block diagram illustrating an exemplary system 200 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 200 may include an electronic device 100, and in particular may include a processor 102. In various embodiments, the system 200 may be implemented as a bid management system (TMS) in an online bidding system that provides direct or indirect airline resource bidding services. In some embodiments, one or more airlines may be connected to the system 200 via an airline module 202. Each airline module 202 may be configured to publish one or more airline resource bid quotations 204, which may be in the form of a bid invitation. The airline resource bid quotations may be sent via one or more electronic mails (emails), and the one or more emails may be encrypted using at least one encryption method, such as Secure Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (S / MIME) and / or Transport Layer Security (TLS).

[0041] In some embodiments, the system 200 can be in data communication with one or more bid approval modules 260. The bid approval module 260 can be configured to receive one or more bid statuses from the system 200. The bid statuses can then be verified, approved / rejected, and recorded. In some embodiments, the bid approval module 260 can form part of the system 200.

[0042] In various embodiments, one or more aviation resource bids may be as follows: FIG. 4B to FIG. 4DThe data format and data structure shown. The aviation resource bid quotation may be encrypted and may require one or more layers of authentication.

[0043] In such Figure 3 In some of the illustrated embodiments, the system 200 may include a sales module 220 and a supplier module 240 .

[0044] The sales module 220 may include historical data and domain knowledge of the airline sales team. In the step of creating resource bid response data by the sales module, the sales module 220 may be configured to receive an airline resource bid quotation, and the airline resource bid quotation (e.g., bid invitation) may be executed in a bid management system (TMS system) of the sales module 220.

[0045] In some embodiments, the sales module 220 may be hosted in a separate server, and the historical data of the sales price and fee combination for each airport may be hosted in the first associated database. In some embodiments, the first associated database may form part of the sales module 220.

[0046] In some embodiments, the supplier module 240 may be hosted in a separate server, and the historical data of the supply price and fee combination for each airport may be hosted in a second associated database. In some embodiments, the second associated database may form part of the supplier module 240.

[0047] Figure 4A An embodiment of a method 400 for managing an aviation resource bidding process is shown. The method 400 may be applicable to implementing a bidding for aviation fuel by an aviation management platform.

[0048] The method 400 begins at step 402 where an invitation to bid is issued from the airline module 202 .

[0049] In step 404, based on the bid invitation received by sales module 220, sales module 220 may be configured to generate a response to the bid invitation. This may be in the form of a reply to the bid.

[0050] In step 406, as part of updating and preparing a response, the user may add one or more airport data entries to the bid invitation via the GUI. In some embodiments, the airport data may include one or more airport codes registered by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) or the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). After completing the input and submission of contract information for each associated airport, the supplier module 240 may provide a GUI to display information, including a map illustrating various airports in the system 200.

[0051] In step 408, as part of the step in which the supplier module 240 appends the quotation data to the resource bid response data, the supplier module 240 can be configured to allow the user to contact one or more suppliers associated with each airport to obtain supplier quotations for aviation resources based on current / latest prices. The supplier module 240 can be configured to receive input quotations from suppliers, and can allow the user to input relevant quotations in at least two ways: (a.) by selecting an aviation resource (e.g., jet fuel) supply price and fee group template (BPA template) for the airport where the supplier is located, and (b.) by referencing a previous aviation resource (e.g., jet fuel) supply price and fee combination (BPA) for the airport. It is contemplated that these two methods can reduce human errors and improve work efficiency.

[0052] Once the quotes are entered, the existing quote combination (or the most recent predetermined number of quotes) may be configured and updated as a new BPA in the system 200. This previous BPA may form part of the historical BPA data of the system 200.

[0053] The resource bid reply data including the BPA with the quotation data may then be sent to the sales module 220 for further processing.

[0054] In step 410 , in the step of determining a supply strategy, the marketing module 220 may be configured to determine or develop a supply strategy.

[0055] In step 412, based on the submitted BPA and the airport's past winning bids, the sales module 220 may be configured to include discount parameters related to the supply of aviation resources (e.g., jet fuel) and decide whether to modify other costs to maximize the chance of a successful bid. In some embodiments, the discount parameter may include a discount value expressed as a percentage, which may maximize the chance of a successful bid.

[0056] In step 414, the step of submitting resource bid response data by the sales module 220 to the airline module 202 may include generating an aviation resource sale price (e.g., a jet fuel sale price), and may include a cost parameter. In the context of jet fuel, the cost parameter may include a jet fuel sale price and a cost combination (BPX) at a previous airport in the system. The previous jet fuel sale price may be based on a predetermined time range or a previous period.

[0057] In some embodiments, the TMS system of the sales module 220 may be configured to automatically calculate an estimated profit based on the quotes submitted to the airline module 202 .

[0058] In some embodiments, the sales module 220 may be configured to obtain a bidding decision input regarding whether to submit a bid to the airline module 202 based on any approval results determined by the approval module 260. The sales module 220 may be configured to periodically monitor or track electronic notifications from the airline module 202 regarding the results of the bid (step 416), such as whether the bid is a successful bid (i.e., a successful status), a failed bid (i.e., a failed status), an abandoned bid (i.e., no winner), or whether more data is needed for the next round of bidding. In some embodiments, the sales module 220 may receive current ranking data of the bid relative to other submitted bids and notify that another round of bidding may be conducted based on a reduced group of a predetermined number of top-ranked bids.

[0059] In step 418, the sales module 202 can be configured to update the bidding results in the system 200 once the notification is received from the airline module 202. If the current round of bidding is successful, unsuccessful or cancelled, the process ends. If the sales team receives a new round of bidding invitation from the airline, the TMS system will automatically start a new round of bidding until the process ends.

[0060] In step 420, the prepared response output of step 412 may be sent to the approval module 260 for approval. If approval is denied, the process ends and step 412 may not be allowed to proceed to step 414, ie, cannot be submitted to the airline module 202.

[0061] In some embodiments, method 400 may be implemented as software code stored in a computer readable medium such that when the software code is executed by a computer, it causes the computer to perform method 400. Each of modules 220, 240, 260 may be hosted separately or may be an integrated centralized processor.

[0062] In some embodiments, the system 200 can perform various functions of the module, such as maintenance of system basic data, including global airport information, contact information of common suppliers and airlines, common airport supply fee information, BPA / BPX template editing and BPA / BPX history review. In some embodiments, the airport supply fee information includes airport supply fees / expenses.

[0063] In some embodiments, the software implementing various functions and modules 200, 260 can be based on web pages and submitted using HTML forms to facilitate process management. The software can be based on the python lightweight Flask web development platform, combined with the commonly used web open source front-end framework Bootstrap and its data table function, and matched with AJAX asynchronous dynamic web page technology to achieve a simple and lightweight operating platform.

[0064] In some embodiments, the system 200 may be deployed on an intranet, and users of the various modules may need to securely connect to the intranet to access it. In some embodiments, the sales module 220 may be accessed by the contract team, which is a subset of the sales team, and the supplier module 240 may be accessed by the supply team or the procurement team. For added security, members of each contract team may be denied access to unassigned modules.

[0065] In some embodiments, data processed or stored by one or more of the modules may be stored as a distributed database / ledger, i.e., data is stored on a network of distributed computers or servers. For example, bidding information and financial related documents may be stored in a blockchain structure.

[0066] FIG. 4B to FIG. 4E Exemplary embodiments of data structures and various data parameters are shown. Figure 4B The various parameters used by the supplier module in the bid invitation and the use / generation of BPA parameters are shown. It can be understood that the BPA and BPX parameters can be stored in the BPA table as bpa_type.

[0067] Figure 4C and Figure 4D It is shown that the sales module obtains various parameters from one or more airports and uses various parameters when generating / updating quotes based on BPX parameters. It can be understood that the BPM table is configured to store the granted BPX values / parameters. BPM can be considered a subset of BPX.

[0068] FIG. 5A to FIG. 5G Various embodiments of user interfaces, such as GUIs, are illustrated as possible implementations of user login and basic data settings for manipulation and viewing by one or more authorized users of the system 200. The GUI may be implemented as a web page to facilitate user preparation of responses / replies to aviation resource bid invitations, such as bid invitations for aviation fuel.

[0069] refer to Figure 5A , a user authorized to access the sales module 220 (hereinafter referred to as an authorized user or user) can connect to the secure intranet and log in to the official website using a web browser. Figure 5A An example of a login interface 500 of a TMS system is shown, where a user can enter his details such as username 501 and password 502 based on certain preset rules (e.g., minimum number of characters for a password). One or more second factor authentications (not shown) may be performed. The TMS system verifies the identity information through an Active Directory (AD) domain account that stores the user and device configurations. If the verification is successful, the page will jump to the main page.

[0070] Figure 5B to Figure 5GExamples of web pages 503 to 508 are shown, which may display basic data and related settings to facilitate the creation or generation of air resource bid response data. Basic data may refer to key supporting data involved in process management. It mainly includes airport data 504, contact information 505, fee list for each airport 506, BPA / BPX template 507 and historical BPA / BPX record 508, such as Figure 5C to Figure 5G shown.

[0071] 6A to 6B Figure 6N Describing some embodiments or examples of the method 400 and system 200 , these figures illustrate various exemplary GUIs for implementing various steps of the method 400 in the context of airline market bid management.

[0072] In the process of preparing a bid, i.e., before receiving any invitation to bid from the airline module 402, the system 200 may include a bid collection module 270 for collecting bidding information from potential partner airlines in preparation for future formal bidding. Once a bid invitation is received from the airline module 202, an authorized user of the sales module 220 may create a bid catalog and enter the details of the bid invitation contract for each airport. Referring to Figures 6A (i) to (iii), an authorized user may access a GUI "No Bid" that provides a menu selection to create a bid catalog. Figure 6A (i) may be a jump page that provides tabs 601 and 602 to the authorized user. If the airline receiving the bid invitation is an existing trading partner, the authorized user will select tab 601 "Add Invitation (Registered Trading Partner)". Otherwise, the authorized user may select tab 602 "Add Invitation (Unregistered Trading Partner)".

[0073] When the sales module 220 detects that the user has selected a registered airline by clicking on the tab 601, the system 200 may provide a GUI as shown in FIG6A(ii), which includes a plurality of text boxes for authorizing user input. The registered airlines may be automatically populated 603. Otherwise, if it is determined that the user has selected option 602, the system 200 may provide a GUI as shown in FIG6A(iii) without populating any airline name.

[0074] Referring back to the jump page shown in FIG6A(i), the authorized user may access an input interface (eg, a web page) to input the details of the invitation to bid contract for each airport. This may be achieved by the authorized user clicking on the airplane icon 604.

[0075] When the sales module 220 detects that the user clicks the airplane icon 604, the system 200 may provide a GUI 605 as shown in FIG6B(i) for the user to select and input one or more airport information. The GUI 605 may be a jump page with an add airport label 606.

[0076] Once the user selects to add an airport tag 606, the user may be redirected to FIG. 6B(ii), which is a GUI 607 ​​for the user to enter various inputs. In some embodiments, known information already stored in one or more databases may be automatically populated. In the example shown in FIG. 6B(ii), the user may fill in various information, such as bidding entity, commodity (e.g., type of aviation resource), contract requirement, contract duration, quantity. After filling in the form, the user may submit the information. FIG. 6B(iii) shows the entry after submission 608. If there is more airport information to enter related to other airports, the user may again select to add an airport tag 606. FIG. 6B(iv) illustrates a GUI with two entries 609.

[0077] refer to FIG. 6C(i) to FIG. 6C(iii) and FIG. 6D(i) to FIG. 6D(viii) After receiving the formal bid from the airline, the user (which may be a contract administrator) may create airline resource bid response data, which may be a bid proposal. Creating the bid data may include the following steps performed by the sales module 220: creating a bid invitation entry, entering or parsing the details of the bid invitation contract for one or more airports associated with the airline, and sending the created bid invitation contract to the supplier module (e.g., managed by the procurement team).

[0078] Referring to FIG. 6C (i), the sales module 220 may provide a redirect web page 620 for displaying any pending bid invitations that have not yet been closed or completed. In some embodiments, the pending bid invitations may be provided via a drop-down menu to view all records. The system 200 may be configured to determine one or more bid invitations that have not yet been closed via flag data or input notification from an authorized user.

[0079] The jump web page 620 may include an "add invitation" tab 621 for the user to start creating a new bidding invitation entry. FIG. 6C (ii) shows an input GUI 622 for the user to enter bidding related details. Examples of such bidding related details may include a reference identifier 623 and an airline code / identifier 624.

[0080] After the user enters the bid related details, the bid invitation catalog is created and saved. Figure 6C(iii) shows an entry indicating the successful creation of the bid invitation entry.

[0081] As shown in Figures 6D (i) to 6D (x), after creating a bid invitation entry, other data required to prepare a response to the bid may be provided via one or more GUIs for input by an authorized user. It is understood that this may form part of steps 404 and 406.

[0082] FIG6D (i) shows a selection of a bid invitation for other data input based on FIG6C (iii). The user can select the airplane icon 625 to jump to a page 626, as shown in FIG6D (ii). The page 626 provides the user with an "add airport" tab 627 for manual input by the user. In addition, the page 626 can further provide for the import of third-party information, such as via an Excel file, using an "import function" or a "load airport via Excel" tab 628.

[0083] FIG6D (iii) shows a GUI 629 after an authorized user selects the "Add Airport" tab 627 to manually enter airport related data / information. This can be similar to the GUI shown in FIG6B (ii), and it can be understood that the pre-entered data in FIG6B (ii) can be extracted and pre-entered into the GUI 629.

[0084] FIG6D(iv) shows an example of an entry 630 saved after the user enters the airport data / information. In some embodiments, the number of modifications (rounds) may be indicated, such as Round 1. The status is shown as "Open", which means that the corresponding airport has not yet been submitted to the procurement team, which can access the supplier module 240 to provide a quote. At this point, the system allows modifications and deletions. It will be appreciated that additional airport entries can be made by clicking on the "Add Airport" tab 627.

[0085] FIG. 6D(v) to FIG. 6D(viii) An exemplary GUI is shown if the user selects the "Import Function" tab 628. In Figure 6D(v), once tab 628 is selected, a pop-up window 631 may be displayed. Pop-up window 631 may provide the user with a "Select File" tab 632 to load or import an Excel file 633, as shown in Figure 6D(vi).

[0086] Figure 6D(vii) shows an example after successfully importing an Excel file. Figure 6D(viii) shows an example of supporting importing / uploading other files, such as .pdf file format.

[0087] After including other data related to the airport, the entry is submitted and ready to be sent to the supplier module 240 . FIG. 6E(i) to FIG. 6E(iii) Some embodiments of GUIs for submitting other data are shown.

[0088] In Figure 6E(i), the user may select the airport information entries to be submitted by checking one or more checkboxes 634. The user may then click on a submit tab 635 to submit the checkbox entries. In Figure 6E(ii), a pop-up box 636 may be displayed for the user to confirm his submission via the "Submit" tab 635. Upon successful submission, information as shown in Figure 6E(iii) may be displayed.

[0089] It is understood that no modification or deletion is allowed after submission. If modification is required, it may be necessary to notify the Contract Administrator to make the necessary changes in order to return the relevant Airport Bid.

[0090] The supplier module 240 may be configured to receive the airport contract information output by the sales module 220. The procurement team may access the supplier module 240 to complete the following operations, namely, updating the jet fuel supply price and fee combination, supply price of the airport in the system (BPA) so as to send the updated quotation back to the sales module 220.

[0091] FIG. 6F(i) to FIG. 6F(x) Various GUIs are shown for users to fill out a supply cost quote. It can be understood that this can form part of step 408.

[0092] In Figure 6F(i), the procurement team user may select Invite for Bids via icon 637. The team user may then be taken to a jump page 638 that enables the user to enter an airport supply fee quote by entering a "+" button 639, as shown in Figure 6F(ii).

[0093] In FIG. 6F(iii) , a jump page 640 for updating the BPA may be displayed for the user to select the BPA through a tab 641 .

[0094] In FIG. 6F (iv), when the user selects via tab 641, the supplier module 240 system can be configured to display two filter lists 642, 643 based on airport data / information. The filter list 642 on the left shows the BPA template, while the filter list 643 on the right shows the historical BPA. The user of the procurement team can select the appropriate BPA template or record as a reference quotation and continue editing.

[0095] In Figure 6F(v), in the absence of a quote reference, the procurement team may need to manually add each expense. This can be performed via the "Save" tab 644.

[0096] If the user clicks on the label 644, a pop-up window 645 appears. In the pop-up window 645, the user can enter the BPA name via the text box 646 and save it.

[0097] In FIGS. 6F(vi) and (vii), jump page 640 is shown with updated entry 647 .

[0098] exist Figure 6F(viii) to Figure 6F(ix) 6F(ix) .

[0099] After the supplier module 240 has updated the aviation resource supply price and fee combination (eg, jet fuel supply price and fee combination) of the airport in the system (BPA), the updated quotation data including the BPA is sent back to the sales module 220 .

[0100] The sales module 220 is then configured to develop a provisioning strategy based on the received quotation data (BPA). The provisioning strategy may include updating a sales fee quotation item, such as BPX, based on the updated BPA.

[0101] Figure 6G(i) to Figure 6G(vi) Various GUIs for users to update sales fee quotation items are shown. It can be understood that this can form a part of steps 410 and 412.

[0102] Figure 6G(i) to 6G(ii) 6G (i) and 6G (ii) show the GUI functionality of selecting an airport data entry to update a sales fee quote entry. The user of the sales module 220 can select an airport entry via icon 650 and label 651 through the relevant jump page shown in Figures 6G (i) and 6G (ii).

[0103] Once the user selects an entry, the GUI 653 shown in FIG. 6G(iii) displays the BPA quote (as updated) for the user to update / select a modification of the BPX via the “Select BPX” tab 654 .

[0104] FIG. 6G(iv) shows a GUI 655 for making selections based on the BPA, or a BPX template can be selected or picked, or records from the filter lists 642, 643 can be used as references.

[0105] FIG6G(v) shows a GUI 656 for modifying a fee entry based on a selected BPX. For example, a rate of 1.4 may be modified. Once a fee entry is modified, it may be saved, as shown in FIG6G(vi).

[0106] 6G(vii) shows a GUI 657 ready for submission. In some embodiments, the sales module 220 may be configured to receive other information related to the bid, such as the air resource provisioning mode (via a provisioning mode such as self-provisioning or back-to-back provisioning), estimated profit based on updated BPA and BPX.

[0107] In some embodiments, sales module 220 may be configured to allow users of sales module 220 to return submissions to supplier module 240 or an administrator for final review or further revisions.

[0108] Figure 6H(i) to Figure 6H(iii) Various GUIs for users to submit sales fee quotation entries are shown. It can be understood that these can form at least a part of step 414.

[0109] In some embodiments, the sales module 220 can be configured to use a template to automatically generate a quote for the system 200. The template can be a MS WORD template. Figure 6I(i) to Figure 6I(iii) Is a GUI for automatically generating quotes for user selected airports.

[0110] In some embodiments, approval module 270 may be configured to provide approval feedback by an administrator user. Figure 6J(i) to Figure 6J(iv) A GUI for an administrator user to update the bid approval results is shown. It can be understood that these can form at least a part of step 420. In some embodiments, once the approval results are approved by the administrator, they cannot be changed.

[0111] In some embodiments, when receiving the bidding results from the airline module 202, the sales module 220 is configured to feedback and update the results in the system 200. Figures 6K (i) to 6K (iv) show a GUI for authorizing a user to update the bidding results by providing feedback to the sales module 220. It can be understood that this can form at least a part of step 418. In some embodiments, the bidding results have the following four possibilities: Awarded: This round of bidding has been awarded; Bidding: The next round of bidding will be conducted; Cancelled: This round of bidding has been cancelled; Failed: This round of bidding has been failed.

[0112] If the bidding result is determined to be a successful bid, cancelled or unsuccessful bid, the bidding process ends; if the next round is needed, the system 200 will automatically copy the bidding data of the previous round and automatically jump to the sales fee quotation stage. If there is no new change in the contract information and supply information, the sales team only needs to modify the BPX according to steps 410 and 412 to submit the bid again.

[0113] In some embodiments, the sales module 220 can be configured to generate a contract document from a fixed editable template after a successful bid result. The fixed editable template can be obtained from past contract templates for a specific airline and associated airports. Figures 6L (i) to 6L (iv) show a GUI for authorizing a user to generate a contract document. By default, the system 200 can display a bid invitation that requires a contract to be generated, as shown in Figure 6L (i). A jump page can be shown in Figure 6L (ii) to display all airports associated with the airline. Each airport may have a specific file. Figure 6L (iii) shows a system for downloading a contract document.

[0114] It is contemplated that once the bid results have been updated, the sales module 220 can be configured to close the entire bid invitation. This can prevent unauthorized or unintentional modifications to the contract, which is a binding document between the airline and the airline providing the air resources. Figures 6M (i) and 6M (ii) show a GUI for the user to complete the closure.

[0115] In some embodiments, system 200 may be configured to capture and display key information or data on one page for easy reference by one or more users of system 200 . Figure 6N An example of the display is provided.

[0116] Figure 7 A general method 700 for managing an aviation resource bidding process is shown, the method 700 including steps according to the present disclosure. The method 700 may be implemented as executable software code stored in a non-transitory computer readable medium in one or more processors (eg, the memory 106). The method 700 includes the following steps.

[0117] Step 702: The sales module obtains aviation resource bidding invitation data associated with at least one airline company; Step 704: The sales module creates aviation resource bid response data, where the aviation resource bid response data is configured to respond to the aviation resource bid invitation data; Step 706: The supplier module attaches the quotation data to the resource bidding data reply; Step 708: developing, by the sales module, a supply strategy based on the quotation data, wherein the developing includes calculating, by the sales module, an estimate based on the supply strategy, the estimate being based on the supply quantity and the discount parameter; and Step 710: The resource bidding data response and quotation are submitted by the sales module to a processor associated with the airline.

[0118] The aforementioned instructions may comprise a computer program element or a computer program product.

[0119] The system 200, the method 400 and the method 700 provide one-stop aviation market bidding management and provide a digital platform for building intelligent aviation market management. The various modules of the system 200 that can only be accessed by authorized users associated with each module ensure that the bidding management process is secure and minimizes data duplication, data errors and data loss. By having a comprehensive GUI system, users of the system 200 are provided with a step-by-step guide to complete the bidding management process, thereby improving efficiency and further reducing human errors.

[0120] Some of the subjects and operations described in this specification may be implemented in digital electronic circuits, or in computer software, firmware or hardware, including the structures disclosed in this specification and their structural equivalents, or in a combination of one or more of them. Some of the subjects described in this specification may be implemented as one or more computer programs, i.e., one or more modules of computer program instructions, which are encoded on a computer storage medium for execution by a data processing device or for controlling the operation of a data processing device. A computer storage medium may be or may be included in a computer-readable storage device, a computer-readable storage substrate, a random or serial access memory array or device, or a combination of one or more of them. In addition, although a computer storage medium is not a propagation signal, a computer storage medium may be a source or destination of computer program instructions encoded in an artificially generated propagation signal. A computer storage medium may also be or be included in one or more separate physical components or media (e.g., multiple CDs, disks, or other storage devices).

[0121] Some of the operations described in this specification may be implemented as operations performed by a data processing apparatus on data stored on one or more computer-readable storage devices or received from other sources.

[0122] A computer program (also referred to as a program, software, software application, script, or code) may be written in any form of programming language, including compiled or interpreted languages, declarative or procedural languages, and it may be deployed in any form, including as a stand-alone program or as a module, component, subroutine, object, or other unit suitable for use in a computing environment. A computer program may, but need not, correspond to a file in a file system. A program may be stored in a portion of a file that holds other programs or data (e.g., one or more scripts stored in a markup language document), in a single file dedicated to the program, or in multiple cooperating files (e.g., files storing one or more modules, subroutines, or portions of code). A computer program may be deployed to be executed on one computer or on multiple computers located at one location or distributed at multiple locations and interconnected by a communications network.

[0123] Some of the processes and logic flows described in this specification can be performed by one or more programmable processors that execute one or more computer programs to perform actions by operating on input data and generating output. The processes and logic flows can also be performed by special purpose logic circuits, and the apparatus can also be implemented as special purpose logic circuits, such as FPGAs (field programmable gate arrays) or ASICs (application specific integrated circuits).

[0124] Although this specification contains many details, these details should not be understood as limitations on the scope of what is claimed, but rather as descriptions of particular features of specific examples. Certain features described in this specification or shown in the accompanying drawings in the context of separate embodiments may also be combined. Conversely, various features described or shown in the context of a single embodiment may also be implemented in multiple embodiments alone or in any suitable sub-combination.

[0125] Similarly, although operations are described in a particular order in the accompanying drawings, this should not be understood as requiring these operations to be performed in the particular order or sequence shown, or requiring all operations shown to be performed to obtain desired results. In some cases, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. In addition, the separation of the various system components in the above-described embodiments should not be understood as requiring such separation in all embodiments, and it should be understood that the described program components and system can usually be integrated together in a single product or packaged in multiple products.

[0126] A number of embodiments have been described. However, it should be understood that various modifications may be made. Therefore, other embodiments and combinations of one or more of the described embodiments are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A computer-implemented method for managing an aviation resource bidding process, the method comprising the steps of: The sales module obtains aviation resource bidding invitation data associated with at least one airline; Creating, by the sales module, aviation resource bid response data, the aviation resource bid response data being configured to respond to the aviation resource bid invitation data; The supplier module includes the quotation data into the resource bid response data; developing, by the sales module, a supply strategy based on the offer data, wherein the developing includes calculating, by the sales module, an estimate based on the supply strategy, the estimate being based on a supply quantity and a discount parameter; as well as The resource bid response data, the supply strategy, and the quotation are submitted by the sales module to another processor associated with the airline.

2. The method according to claim 1, wherein: The processor associated with the airline is an airline resource bidding module configured to determine a bidding status based on the resource bid response data and the offer price.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: When it is positively determined that the bidding status is a successful bid, a cancelled bid, or a failed bid, the sales module is configured to update an approval module.

4. The method according to claim 3, wherein: The approval module is further configured to receive the supply strategy from the sales module for approval.

5. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Aviation resources include aviation turbine fuel.

6. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The creating the resource bid response data includes adding at least one airport data, the airport data including an airport code registered by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) or the International Civil Aviation Organization.

7. The method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising the step of checking airline data and tender information from a plurality of partner airline modules before obtaining the aviation resource bid invitation data.

8. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising creating a bid invitation catalogue associated with each of the at least one airline and inputting details of a bid invitation contract for one or more airport data associated with the airline.

9. A method according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: Including the offer data includes selecting an aviation resource offering price and fee group template for at least one airport associated with the airline, and / or selecting a previous aviation resource offering price and fee combination for the at least one airport associated with the airline.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein: Developing the supply strategy includes modifying the quote data using cost parameters including a combination of past jet fuel sales prices and costs at the at least one airport associated with the airline.

11. A system for managing an aviation resource bidding process, the system comprising a processor, the processor comprising a sales module and a supplier module, and configured to: The sales module obtains aviation resource bidding invitation data associated with at least one airline company; creating or generating, by the sales module, aviation resource bid response data, the aviation resource bid response data being configured to respond to the aviation resource bid invitation data; The supplier module includes the quotation data into the resource bid response data; developing, by the sales module, a supply strategy based on the offer data, wherein the developing includes calculating an estimate based on the supply strategy, the estimate being based on supply quantities and discount parameters; as well as The resource bid response data, the supply strategy, and the quotation are submitted by the sales module to a processor associated with the airline.

12. The system according to claim 11, wherein: The sales module and the supplier module are each configured to have different access rights for different user groups.

13. The system according to claim 11 or 12, wherein: The processor associated with the airline is an airline resource bidding module configured to determine a bidding status based on the resource bid response data and the offer price.

14. The system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, further comprising an approval module, wherein when it is positively determined that the bidding status is a successful bid, a failed bid, a bidding in progress, or a bid cancelled, the sales module is configured to update the approval module; wherein, When it is determined that the bidding status is successful, a bidding contract is generated, and the bidding contract is parsed to determine the amount of aviation resources.

15. The system of claim 14, wherein: The approval module is further configured to receive the supply strategy from the sales module for approval.

16. A system according to any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein: In including the quotation data, the supplier module is configured to select at least one of: an air resource offering price and fee group template for at least one airport associated with the airline, and a previous air resource offering price and fee combination for the at least one airport associated with the airline.

17. The system of claim 16, wherein: In developing the supply strategy, the sales module is configured to modify the offer data using cost parameters including a combination of past jet fuel sales prices and costs for the at least one airport associated with the airline.

18. A system according to any one of claims 11 to 17, wherein: Each of the sales module and the supplier module is configured to provide at least one user interface for each user to input data, wherein the input data includes airport data, fee data, bid invitation data, and document data.

19. A system according to any one of claims 11 to 18, wherein: The aviation resources include aviation turbine fuel.

20. An airport aviation turbine fuel management system configured to be in data communication with the system of claim 14 and claim 19 to receive the determined amount of aviation turbine fuel and to provide the aviation turbine fuel to one or more aircraft.

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