System, method, and program for determining arrangement of packages when a plurality of types of packages are consolidated and transported

Abstract

To provide a system or the like for determining arrangement of cargoes when a plurality of kinds of cargoes are consolidated and transported so that many kinds of cargoes can be properly consolidated.SOLUTION: According to an aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for determining arrangement of loads when a plurality of types of loads are consolidated and transported, the system including means for receiving load information of each load of the plurality of types of loads, means for assigning a stacking flag to the load information of each load, the stacking flag including a flag indicating whether the load is an upper available load on which a load having the same weight or less can be placed, a flag indicating whether the load can be placed on the upper available load, and a flag indicating whether the same type of load can be stacked, means for receiving specification information of a transport means, and means for determining arrangement of each load in a cargo compartment based on the load information, the stacking flag, and the specification information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system, method, and program for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together (so-called mixed cargo transportation).The present invention also relates to a system, method, and program for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together using multiple flights from a departure point to a destination. [Background technology]

[0002] Recently, there have been concerns in Japan's logistics industry that goods may not be transported properly due to a lack of transport capacity caused by a shortage of truck drivers, etc., and this has become a problem.

[0003] One solution to this problem is mixed transport, which means mixing multiple types of cargo and transporting them on the same transport vehicle (for example, one truck bed). In mixed transport, for example, cargoes of beverages and cargoes of machine parts are loaded onto the same truck.

[0004] For example, a system for supporting mixed-load transportation is known (for example, Patent Document 1). However, in the mixed-load transportation described in Patent Document 1, for example, there are cases where large cargo is stacked on top of small cargo, which causes problems such as damage to the cargo underneath.

[0005] Furthermore, the mixed-load transport described in Patent Document 1 aims to maximize efficiency for a single transport, and there is also the problem that when multiple transports are used, it may not be possible to reduce overall costs. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2022-96091 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The present invention aims to provide a system for determining the placement of cargo in consideration of stacking constraints imposed by the cargo when transporting it in a mixed load manner, so that many types of cargo can be mixed appropriately.

[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system or the like that is capable of determining the placement of cargo when transporting a mixture of multiple types of cargo under detailed constraints.

[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a system for determining the placement of luggage for multiple flights. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] The present invention provides a system that automatically determines the placement of luggage in a luggage compartment based on luggage information of the luggage to be transported and specification information of the transportation means that will transport the luggage, and that is capable of determining a luggage placement that maximizes loading efficiency while satisfying detailed constraints.

[0011] The present invention provides, for example, the following items. (Item 1) A system for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together, comprising: A means for receiving package information for each of a plurality of types of packages; means for assigning stacking flags to the luggage information of each luggage, the stacking flags including a flag indicating whether the luggage is an upper-usable luggage on which luggage of the same weight or less can be placed, a flag indicating whether the luggage can be placed on an upper-usable luggage, and a flag indicating whether the luggage can be stacked with the same type of luggage; means for receiving vehicle specification information; a means for determining the placement of each piece of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information, the stacking flag, and the specification information; A system comprising: (Item 2) The determining means includes: determining a plurality of candidate placements; determining whether each of the plurality of candidate layouts complies with a stacking condition based on the stacking flag; The system according to the preceding item is configured to perform the following. (Item 3) The system of any one of the preceding items, wherein the determined arrangement includes an arrangement in which cargo of different sizes is stacked. (Item 4) The system according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the determined arrangement includes an arrangement in which luggage is stacked in three or more layers. (Item 5) The system according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the means for assigning a stacking flag is configured to automatically assign a stacking flag to the luggage information based on an attribute of the luggage. (Item 6) The system according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the determining means is configured to determine the layout so as to satisfy a plurality of constraint conditions and maximize loading efficiency in the luggage compartment, the constraint conditions including compliance with the stacking condition, and the determining means determines whether the stacking condition is complied with based on the stacking flag. (Item 7) The system described in any one of the above items, wherein the plurality of constraint conditions further include at least one of satisfying a weight limit of the transportation means, satisfying a load limit for each axle weight of the transportation means, satisfying a luggage compartment interior dimension limit, complying with an avoidance rule, complying with a luggage compartment height order, complying with a left-right balance condition in the luggage compartment, complying with a loading rule for a stepped trailer, and contacting a preceding luggage. (Item 8) 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the determining means is implemented using a quantum computer. (Item 9) A system for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together, comprising: A means for receiving package information for each of a plurality of types of packages; means for receiving specification information for each of the means of transport; a means for determining the placement of each piece of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information and the specification information; wherein the determining means determines the layout so as to satisfy a plurality of constraints and maximize loading efficiency in the luggage compartment; The plurality of constraint conditions include satisfying weight limits of the plurality of transportation means, satisfying load limits of each axle weight of the plurality of transportation means, satisfying cargo compartment dimensional limits, complying with stacking conditions, complying with avoidance rules, complying with cargo compartment height order, complying with left-right balance conditions in the cargo compartment, complying with loading rules for stepped trailers, and contacting preceding cargo. (Item 10) A system for determining the arrangement of cargo when transporting a plurality of types of cargo together from a departure point to a destination, wherein there are a plurality of flights from the departure point to the destination, each of the plurality of flights being configured by a transportation means having at least one cargo compartment, and each of the plurality of flights being associated with at least an operating cost when operating from the departure point to the destination and a cancellation cost when canceling the service, and the system: A means for receiving package information for each of a plurality of types of packages; means for receiving specification information of the transportation means for each of the plurality of flights; means for determining the operation mode of each of the plurality of flights based on the luggage information and the specification information so as to minimize the cost of transporting the plurality of types of luggage from the departure point to the arrival point, and for determining the flight on which each luggage should be transported and the arrangement of the luggage in the luggage compartment of one of the transportation means of the flight; A system comprising: (Item 11) A system described in any one of the above items, wherein the transportation means of each of the plurality of flights has at least two cargo compartments, and each of the plurality of flights further has a partial operating cost when operating at least a portion of the route from the departure point to the destination using some of the at least two cargo compartments. (Item 12) A method for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together, comprising: receiving package information for each of a plurality of types of packages; Adding a stacking flag to the luggage information of each luggage, the stacking flag including a flag indicating whether the luggage is an upper-usable luggage on which luggage of the same weight or less can be placed, a flag indicating whether the luggage can be placed on an upper-usable luggage, and a flag indicating whether the luggage can be stacked with the same type of luggage; receiving vehicle specification information; determining the arrangement of each piece of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information, the stacking flag, and the specification information; A method comprising: (Item 12A) Item 13. The method according to item 12, comprising the features according to any one of the preceding items. (Item 13) A program for determining the placement of cargo when transporting a mixture of multiple types of cargo, the program being executed by a computer having a processor unit, the program comprising: receiving package information for each of a plurality of types of packages; Adding a stacking flag to the luggage information of each luggage, the stacking flag including a flag indicating whether the luggage is an upper-usable luggage on which luggage of the same weight or less can be placed, a flag indicating whether the luggage can be placed on an upper-usable luggage, and a flag indicating whether the luggage can be stacked with the same type of luggage; receiving vehicle specification information; determining the arrangement of each piece of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information, the stacking flag, and the specification information; A program that causes the processor to execute a process including the steps of: (Item 13A) Item 14. A program according to Item 13, comprising the features according to any one of the preceding items. (Item 13B) A non-transitory computer-readable storage medium storing the program according to item 13 or item 13B. [Effects of the Invention]

[0012] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a system for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together, which makes it possible to appropriately mix many types of cargo together. This makes it possible to optimize the utilization efficiency of the transportation space of the transportation means (i.e., loading efficiency). This can lead to the activation of mixed cargo transportation across industries and business types. Furthermore, according to the present invention, by imposing detailed constraints, it is possible to optimize not only loading efficiency but also quality and / or work aspects. This enables stowage that is suited to actual logistics, making it possible to realize stowage that is applicable not only to logistics in a specific field but also to logistics in general. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0013] [Figure 1] A diagram showing an example of the flow of a service to support consolidated transport [Figure 2A] Table showing an example of stacking flags assigned by system 100 [Figure 2B] Table showing examples of stacking patterns that comply with stacking conditions [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a system 100 for determining the arrangement of cargo when multiple types of cargo are transported together. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a specific configuration of a system 100. [Figure 5A] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of package information for multiple packages. [Figure 5B] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of specification information for a plurality of transportation means. [Figure 5C] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a data structure of flight information for multiple flights. [Figure 6A] FIG. 1 shows an example of the configuration of a processor unit 120. [Figure 6B] 1 shows another example of the configuration of the processor unit 120. [Figure 7]A diagram showing the definition of each letter in the simultaneous equations for calculating axle load [Figure 8A] A diagram showing an example of the results of solving an optimization problem while keeping the operation mode fixed at normal operation. [Figure 8B] A diagram showing an example of the results of solving the optimization problem by adding the operation mode as a variable. [Figure 9] A flowchart showing an example of a process 900 in the system 100 for determining the arrangement of cargo when multiple types of cargo are transported together. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0014] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

[0015] 1. Services to support consolidated transport The inventors of the present invention have developed a service to support consolidated transport, which enables efficient consolidated transport of many types of cargo. This service automatically determines the arrangement of cargo in the cargo compartment (i.e., stowage plan) based on cargo information of the cargo to be transported and specification information of the transportation means that will transport the cargo.

[0016] This service determines cargo placement that maximizes loading efficiency while satisfying detailed constraints. As long as the constraints are satisfied, all possible placement patterns are considered as candidates, and the placement that maximizes loading efficiency is identified. Because it is possible to consider placement patterns that were not considered in conventional automated systems, the resulting cargo placement may be a novel placement that could not be output by conventional automated systems. Furthermore, a cargo placement that satisfies detailed constraints not only maximizes loading efficiency, but is also optimized in terms of quality and / or work. Such cargo placement is suited to actual logistics, making it possible to realize loading that is applicable not only to specific logistics fields but also to logistics in general.

[0017] When detailed constraints are taken into account, the number of variables to be considered can become enormous, and the calculation time required to determine the optimal luggage placement can also become enormous. In this case, for example, by using a quantum computer, the calculation time required to determine the optimal luggage placement can be shortened.

[0018] With this service, when there are multiple flights between the departure point and the destination, it is possible to automatically allocate the flights to which the cargo should be transported, and then determine the placement of the cargo in the cargo compartment of the allocated flight's transportation means. In this case, depending on the allocation of each of the multiple flights, it is possible to cancel at least some of the multiple flights, or change the transportation means of at least some of the multiple flights (for example, removing the trailer from a full trailer and using only a tractor). This leads to a reduction in the operating costs of multiple flights.

[0019] This service can be implemented, for example, using the system 100 of the present invention.

[0020] FIG. 1 shows an example of the flow of a service for supporting consolidated transport.

[0021] In this example, the system 100 is implemented in a computer installed in a logistics company that carries out mixed transport.

[0022] Logistics companies receive requests for transporting packages from customers every day. The logistics company transports each requested package from its departure point to its destination using multiple transportation means it owns. Sometimes, transporting a package from its departure point to its destination is considered one flight, and multiple flights are used to transport multiple packages. In this case, for example, the same transportation means used for the outbound flight may also be used for the return flight.

[0023] Each requested package has package information, such as package ID, drop-off location, drop-off date, drop-off time, delivery location, delivery date, and delivery time. Additionally, package information may include size and weight, where size includes length, width, and height. Package information may also include quantity.

[0024] The transportation means that the logistics company may own may be, for example, a truck, a semi-trailer, or a full trailer, preferably a full trailer. However, the transportation means is not limited to vehicles that travel on roads, but may also be ships that travel on water, aircraft that travel in the air, etc. Each of the multiple transportation means has at least one cargo compartment. For example, trucks and semi-trailers have one cargo compartment, and full trailers have two cargo compartments (the tractor compartment and the trailer compartment).

[0025] Each of the multiple transportation means has specification information. The specification information includes size and weight, as well as luggage compartment information. Size includes, for example, the length from the front end of the luggage compartment to each axle, and the length from the front end of the luggage compartment to the empty vehicle center of gravity. An empty vehicle means a state in which no luggage is loaded, and the empty vehicle center of gravity means the center of gravity when no luggage is loaded. Weight includes the empty vehicle weight (i.e., the weight when no luggage is loaded) and the loadable weight. The luggage compartment information includes the size of the luggage compartment and may also include the type of luggage compartment. The size of the luggage compartment includes, for example, the length, width, and height of the luggage compartment. The type of luggage compartment may indicate whether there are steps in the luggage compartment (for example, whether it is a stepped trailer).

[0026] When transportation is performed by multiple flights, each flight has flight information, which includes, for example, a flight ID, departure point, departure date, departure time, arrival point, arrival date, arrival time, information on the means of transportation used, and operation costs.

[0027] In step S1, package information 10 for a plurality of packages is provided to the system 100. For example, a worker at a logistics company may input package information 10 into the system 100, or package information for a package may be generated in response to a request for package transportation, and the package information for that package may be automatically provided to the system 100.

[0028] In step S2, the specification information 20 of the plurality of transportation means is provided to the system 100. For example, an employee of the logistics company may input the specification information 20 of the plurality of transportation means into the system 100, or the specification information 20 may be automatically provided to the system 100 when it is determined that each of the plurality of transportation means is available for the next transportation (for example, when the next schedule of the transportation means is available or when the transportation means is newly introduced to the logistics company).

[0029] When the package information 10 and the specification information 20 for a plurality of packages are provided to the system 100, the system 100 determines the placement of the plurality of packages within the luggage compartment of the vehicle.

[0030] The system 100 performs optimization calculations to maximize loading efficiency while satisfying detailed constraints. The system 100 can perform this optimization calculation using, for example, a quantum computer.

[0031] Constraint conditions include, but are not limited to, satisfying the weight limit of the transportation means, satisfying the load limit of each axle load of the transportation means, satisfying the luggage compartment dimensional limit, complying with the stacking conditions, complying with the avoidance rules, complying with the luggage compartment height order, complying with the luggage compartment left-right balance condition, complying with the loading rules for the stepped trailer (if the transportation means is a stepped trailer), and contacting the preceding luggage, as described below. A particularly preferred constraint condition is compliance with the stacking conditions, and whether or not the stacking conditions are met can be determined using, for example, a stacking flag. Here, "stacking" refers to stacking luggage on top of one another. The system 100 can assign a stacking flag to the luggage information of the luggage.

[0032] FIG. 2A is a table showing an example of stacking flags assigned by the system 100.

[0033] The stacking flags include an upper tier availability flag (i.e., a flag indicating whether or not a piece of luggage of the same weight or less can be placed on top of it (referred to as "upper tier availability luggage")), an upper tier availability flag (i.e., a flag indicating whether or not the piece of luggage can be placed on top of upper tier availability luggage), and a same-type luggage stacking availability flag (i.e., a flag indicating whether or not the same type of luggage can be stacked). In the table shown in FIG. 2A, "1" represents "available" and "0" represents "not available." These three flags make it possible to classify luggage into six categories, for example, as shown in the table in FIG. 2A. Hereinafter, the stacking flags may be expressed as [upper tier availability flag, same-type luggage stacking availability flag, upper tier availability flag].

[0034] For example, [1,0,1] represents a top-accessible load and a load that can be placed on top of the top-accessible load, which may be, for example, a beverage-based load. For example, [1,1,1] represents a load that is top available and can have loads placed on it that contain the same type of load, which could be food or snack-based loads, for example. For example, [1,0,0] represents a package that can only be placed on top of other packages. This could be a package such as a perforated outer box, because the perforations on a perforated outer box could be torn if force is applied from above. For example, [1,1,0] represents a load that can be placed on top of an available load and, when stacked, can only be stacked with loads of the same type, such as a basket. For example, [0,0,1] represents a top-accessible item that cannot be placed on top of other items, such as an extra-heavy item. For example, [0,0,0] represents a package that cannot be stacked (i.e., can only be stacked flat). This may be, for example, an irregularly shaped package.

[0035] The system 100 can use these flags to determine what constraints the load has regarding stacking, and can use the stacking flags to determine whether the load complies with the stacking conditions. One example of a stacking condition is whether the request set by the stacking flag is met. For example, a pattern in which a load with a [1,0,1] pattern is stacked on top of a load with a [1,0,0] pattern does not satisfy the request set by the stacking flag, and therefore does not comply with the stacking conditions. For example, a pattern in which a load with a [0,0,1] pattern is stacked on top of a load with a [1,1,1] pattern does not satisfy the request set by the stacking flag, and therefore does not comply with the stacking conditions.

[0036] 2B is a table showing examples of stacking patterns that comply with the stacking conditions. Although five patterns are shown in FIG. 2B, the stacking patterns that comply with the stacking conditions are not limited to these, and other patterns are also possible.

[0037] Pattern (1) represents a pattern in which cargoes with the same type of pallet (i.e., pallet size) are stacked. The fact that the upper and lower cargoes have the same pallet size means that the planar dimensions (i.e., length and width) of the upper and lower cargoes are approximately the same. The upper and lower cargoes may be of different types as long as they have approximately the same planar dimensions. The stacking flag of the upper cargo is [1,*,*], and the stacking flag of the lower cargo is [1,1,1]. Here, "*" indicates that it can be either 0 or 1. Stacking a [1,*,*] cargo on top of a [1,1,1] cargo satisfies the requirements of the stacking flag.

[0038] Pattern (2) represents a pattern in which packages of the same type are stacked on pallets. The top and bottom packages may be of different types as long as they have approximately the same planar dimensions. The stacking flag for the top package is [1,1,1], and the stacking flag for the bottom package is [1,1,1]. Stacking a package with a [1,1,1] rating on top of a package with a [1,1,1] rating satisfies the requirements of the stacking flags. This pattern also allows for three or more layers of packages to be stacked on top of the top package. The stacking flags for the third and subsequent layers are [1,1,1], which also satisfies the requirements of the stacking flags.

[0039] Pattern (3) represents a pattern in which the types of pallets on which the cargo is loaded are the same, and cargo of the same type is stacked. The stacking flag of the upper cargo is [1,1,*], and the stacking flag of the lower cargo is [1,1,0]. Stacking a cargo with a stacking flag of [1,1,*] on top of a cargo with a stacking flag of [1,1,0] satisfies the requirement of the stacking flags.

[0040] Pattern (4) represents a pattern in which packages are stacked so that the length of the package on the lower level is longer than the length of the package on the upper level. In this pattern, the number of rows in the width direction of the upper level can be the same as the number of rows in the width direction of the lower level. The stacking flag of the package on the upper level is [1,*,*], and the stacking flag of the package on the lower level is [*,*,1]. Stacking a package with a value of [1,*,*] on top of a package with a value of [*,*,1] satisfies the requirements of the stacking flag. In this pattern, packages with different planar dimensions are stacked.

[0041] Pattern (5) represents a stacking pattern in which the width of the lower package is the same as that of the upper package, and the length of the lower package is longer than that of the upper package. In this pattern, the number of rows in the width direction of the upper package may be the same as that of the lower package. The stacking flag of the upper package is [1,*,*], and the stacking flag of the lower package is [*,*,1]. Stacking a package with a value of [1,*,*] on top of a package with a value of [*,*,1] satisfies the requirements of the stacking flag. Even in this pattern, packages with different planar dimensions are stacked. Furthermore, the heights of multiple packages placed on the upper package may differ from each other.

[0042] In this way, stacking patterns that comply with the stacking conditions allow for stacking of three or more layers and stacking of cargo of different sizes.

[0043] Referring back to FIG. 1, once the arrangement of the plurality of packages is determined by the system 100, the determined arrangement of the packages is output from the system 100 in step S3.

[0044] For example, a logistics company worker will load the cargo into the cargo compartment of a transportation vehicle according to the determined cargo layout. Figure 1 shows multiple cargoes loaded into the cargo compartment of a full trailer.

[0045] FIG. 1 shows that multiple types of luggage of different sizes are mixed together. For example, luggage A and luggage B, which have different planar dimensions (particularly, length), are stacked. Specifically, five luggage A, which are short, are placed on top of four luggage B, which are long. In luggage placement by system 100, such stacking of luggage of different sizes is permitted as long as the constraints are met. Although not shown, stacking of three or more levels is also permitted as long as the constraints are met.

[0046] In this way, as long as the constraints are met, any arrangement pattern is allowed, increasing the number of options for cargo arrangement. This makes it easier to achieve loading that maximizes loading efficiency, even for many types of cargo. Furthermore, cargo arrangements that satisfy detailed constraints not only maximize loading efficiency, but also result in cargo arrangements that are optimized in terms of quality and / or work, making it possible to achieve loading that is easily accepted in all logistics fields.

[0047] When multiple packages are transported using multiple flights, flight information for each flight may also be provided to the system 100 in step 2.

[0048] In this case, the system 100 determines the allocation of the multiple pieces of luggage (i.e., which of the multiple flights to load the pieces of luggage onto) and the layout of the multiple pieces of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the flight information as well as the luggage information 10 and the specification information 20 of the multiple pieces of luggage. As described above, any layout pattern is allowed as long as the constraints are met, which increases the options for luggage layout and also the options for multiple flights. Depending on the allocation, it may be possible to suspend some of the multiple flights or reduce the number of flights to a single vehicle. This makes it easier to achieve loading that further reduces costs and maximizes loading efficiency.

[0049] The above-described system 100 may have, for example, the configuration described below and may execute the processing described below.

[0050] 2. System configuration for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together FIG. 3 shows an example of the configuration of a system 100 for determining the arrangement of cargo when multiple types of cargo are transported together.

[0051] The system 100 is connected to a database unit 200. The system 100 is also connected to at least one terminal device 300 via a network 400.

[0052] 3 shows three terminal devices 300, the number of terminal devices 300 is not limited to this. Any number of terminal devices 300 may be connected to the system 100 via the network 400.

[0053] The network 400 may be any type of network. For example, the network 400 may be the Internet or a LAN. The network 400 may be a wired network or a wireless network.

[0054] An example of the system 100 may be, but is not limited to, a computer (e.g., a server device) installed at a logistics company that carries out mixed transport, or a computer (e.g., a server device) installed at a service provider that provides loading plans for mixed transport. An example of the terminal device 300 may be, but is not limited to, a computer (e.g., a terminal device) installed at the base of a logistics company that carries out mixed transport, or a computer (e.g., a terminal device) of a user that receives a loading plan for mixed transport.

[0055] Here, the computer (server device or terminal device) may be any type of computer, such as a smartphone, a tablet, a personal computer, or the like.

[0056] The database unit 200 can store at least luggage information for each of a plurality of luggage items and specification information for at least one transportation means. The database unit 200 can also store flight information for a plurality of flights.

[0057] FIG. 4 shows an example of a specific configuration of the system 100.

[0058] The system 100 comprises an interface section 110, a processor section 120, and a memory section .

[0059] The interface unit 110 exchanges information with the outside of the system 100. The processor unit 120 of the system 100 can receive information from the outside of the system 100 and can send information to the outside of the system 100 via the interface unit 110. The interface unit 110 can exchange information in any format.

[0060] The interface unit 110 includes, for example, an input unit that allows information to be input to the system 100. It does not matter how the input unit allows information to be input to the system 100. For example, if the input unit is a receiver, the receiver may input information by receiving information from outside the system 100 via a network. Alternatively, if the input unit is a data reading device, the input unit may input information by reading information from a storage medium connected to the system 100.

[0061] The interface unit 110 includes, for example, an output unit that enables information to be output from the system 100. It does not matter in what manner the output unit enables information to be output from the system 100. For example, if the output unit is a transmitter, the transmitter may output information by transmitting it to an external device outside the system 100 via a network. Alternatively, if the output unit is a data writing device, the output unit may output information by writing it to a storage medium connected to the system 100.

[0062] The system 100 can, for example, transmit information to and / or receive information from the database unit 200 via the interface unit 110. The system 100 can, for example, transmit information to and / or receive information from the terminal device 300 via the interface unit 110.

[0063] The system 100 can receive, for example, cargo information about cargo and specification information about a transportation means via the interface unit 110. The system 100 can output, for example, a determined cargo arrangement (i.e., a stowage plan) via the interface unit 110.

[0064] The processor unit 120 executes the processing of the system 100 and controls the overall operation of the system 100. The processor unit 120 reads and executes a program stored in the memory unit 130. This allows the system 100 to function as a system that executes desired steps. The processor unit 120 may be implemented by a single processor or by multiple processors.

[0065] The memory unit 130 stores programs required to execute the processing of the system 100, data required to execute the programs, and the like. The memory unit 130 may also store a program (e.g., a program that implements the processing shown in FIG. 9 , which will be described later) that causes the processor unit 120 to execute processing for determining the placement of cargo when multiple types of cargo are transported together. Here, how the program is stored in the memory unit 130 is not important. For example, the program may be pre-installed in the memory unit 130. Alternatively, the program may be installed in the memory unit 130 by being downloaded via a network. In this case, the type of network does not matter. The memory unit 130 may be implemented by any storage means. Alternatively, the program may be stored in a non-transitory computer-readable storage medium and stored in the memory unit 130 by reading the medium.

[0066] The database unit 200 can store at least luggage information for each of a plurality of luggage items and specification information for at least one transportation means. The database unit 200 can also store flight information for a plurality of flights.

[0067] 5A to 5C are diagrams showing the data configuration of information stored in the database unit 200. FIG.

[0068] FIG. 5A shows an example of the data structure of package information for multiple packages.

[0069] This example shows package information for 10 packages. Here, one package refers to the entire shipment requested by one requester, and one package may contain multiple packages. The size and weight of the package may be the size and weight of one package included in the package.

[0070] The package information includes the product ID, the date and time of delivery, the location of delivery, the date and time of delivery, and the location of delivery, as well as the size (length, width, height), weight, and quantity. The location of delivery indicates the location where the package is delivered, and the date and time of delivery indicate the date and time when the package is delivered to the location of delivery, respectively. The location of delivery indicates the location where the package is delivered, and the delivery date and time indicate the date and time when the package is delivered at the location of delivery, respectively.

[0071] For each of the multiple packages, package information can be associated and stored in the database unit 200.

[0072] FIG. 5B shows an example of the data structure of specification information for a plurality of transportation means.

[0073] This example shows specification information for four transportation means, and assumes that a full trailer is the transportation means. A full trailer is a vehicle in which a tractor pulls a trailer, and has two cargo compartments (the tractor's cargo compartment and the trailer's cargo compartment).

[0074] The specification information is stored in association with the vehicle ID of each transportation means. The specification information includes weight and cargo space information. Weight includes the tractor's load capacity, the tractor's vehicle weight (empty weight), the trailer's load capacity, and the trailer's vehicle weight (empty weight). The cargo space information includes the size and type of cargo space. The cargo space type indicates whether or not it has a stepped section ('1' indicates a stepped trailer with a stepped section, and '0' indicates a trailer without a stepped section). The cargo space size includes the interior dimensions of the tractor (length, width, height) and the trailer (length, width, height), and in the case of a stepped trailer, it also includes the dimensions forward of the step and the dimensions rearward of the step.

[0075] FIG. 5C shows an example of the data structure of flight information for multiple flights.

[0076] This example shows flight information for eight flights, each of which travels from an origin to a destination using one of the four modes of transportation described above with reference to Figure 5B.

[0077] Flight information includes, for example, flight ID, origin, departure date, departure time, destination, arrival date, arrival time, vehicle ID used, and operating cost. Origin indicates the location from which the transportation means of the flight departs, and departure date and departure time indicate the date and time of departure from the origin, respectively. Destination indicates the destination of the transportation means of the flight, and arrival date and arrival time indicate the date and time of arrival at the destination, respectively. Operating cost indicates the cost of operating the flight, and is a relative value, with the cost of operating with a full trailer ("full trailer") set at 1. "Single trailer" indicates the cost of operating with only a tractor after removing the trailer from the full trailer of the flight, and "cancelled" indicates the cost of canceling the flight.

[0078] In the examples shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 , the database unit 200 is provided outside the system 100, but the present invention is not limited to this. At least a portion of the database unit 200 can also be provided inside the system 100. In this case, at least a portion of the database unit 200 may be implemented by the same storage means as the storage means that implements the memory unit 130, or by a storage means different from the storage means that implements the memory unit 130. In either case, at least a portion of the database unit 200 is configured as a storage unit for the system 100. The configuration of the database unit 200 is not limited to a specific hardware configuration. For example, the database unit 200 may be configured as a single hardware component or multiple hardware components. For example, the database unit 200 may be configured as an external hard disk drive for the system 100, as cloud storage connected via a network, or as a distributed network using blockchain technology or the like.

[0079] FIG. 6A shows an example of the configuration of the processor unit 120.

[0080] The processor unit 120 comprises a first receiving means 121, a second receiving means 122, and a determining means 123.

[0081] The first receiving means 121 is configured to receive package information of a package to be transported. The package information may include, for example, a package ID, departure and arrival location information (e.g., drop-off location, drop-off date, drop-off time, delivery location, delivery date, delivery time), size, weight, and quantity. The package information may also include attribute values ​​that represent attributes of the package.

[0082] The package information may be received, for example, from the terminal device 300 via the interface unit 110, or from the database unit 200 via the interface unit 110. For example, when a logistics company's base receives a request for package transportation and package information is generated in response to the request, the package information for the package may be automatically provided from the terminal device 300 to the processor unit 120 via the interface unit 110.

[0083] The received package information is passed to the determining means 123 .

[0084] The second receiving means 122 is configured to receive vehicle specification information, which may include, for example, the size and weight of the vehicle, and luggage compartment information.

[0085] The specification information may be received, for example, from the terminal device 300 via the interface unit 110, or from the database unit 200 via the interface unit 110. For example, when a means of transport becomes available at a logistics company's base, the specification information of the means of transport may be automatically provided from the terminal device 300 to the processor unit 120 via the interface unit 110.

[0086] The received specification information is passed to the determining means 123 .

[0087] The determining means 123 is configured to determine the placement of each of the plurality of types of luggage in the luggage compartment of the transportation means based on the luggage information and the specification information.

[0088] The determination means 123 can determine the placement of each piece of luggage so as to satisfy a plurality of constraint conditions and maximize the loading efficiency in the luggage compartment, for example. For example, the determination means 123 can determine the placement of each piece of luggage by solving an optimization problem so as to minimize or maximize an objective function under a plurality of constraint conditions.

[0089] The determination means 123 can solve optimization problems using, for example, a quantum computer. In particular, the determination means 123 can determine the optimal placement of luggage by searching for the optimal solution from a huge number of options using a quantum annealing method.

[0090] The determining means 123 may, for example, calculate multiple candidates for the arrangement pattern of multiple packages, apply constraint conditions to each of the multiple candidates, and output only those that satisfy the constraint conditions. Alternatively, the determining means 123 may, for example, exclude in advance those that do not satisfy the constraint conditions when calculating the arrangement pattern of multiple packages.

[0091] The multiple constraints include at least one of satisfying the weight limit of the transportation means, satisfying the load limit of each axle weight of the transportation means, satisfying the dimensional limit of the luggage compartment, complying with the stacking conditions, complying with the avoidance rules, complying with the order of the luggage compartment height, complying with the left-right balance condition of the luggage compartment, complying with the loading rules of a stepped trailer, and being in contact with the luggage in front, preferably including at least two of these, and most preferably including all of these. Note that the multiple constraints must necessarily include satisfying the weight limit of the transportation means, satisfying the load limit of each axle weight of the transportation means, and satisfying the dimensional limit of the luggage compartment, and may additionally include at least one of complying with the stacking conditions, complying with the avoidance rules, complying with the order of the luggage compartment height, complying with the left-right balance condition of the luggage compartment, complying with the loading rules of a stepped trailer, and being in contact with the luggage in front.

[0092] Satisfying the weight limit of the transportation means means that the total weight of the cargo to be loaded is equal to or less than the load capacity. In particular, when the transportation means is a full trailer, satisfying the weight limit of the transportation means means that (1) the vehicle weight plus the total weight of the loaded cargo is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold, (2) the total weight of the cargo loaded on the tractor is equal to or less than the tractor's load capacity, and (3) the total weight of the cargo loaded on the trailer is equal to or less than the trailer's load capacity. The predetermined threshold may be, for example, a value determined by law or the like, or a value determined by the user. The predetermined value may be, for example, 44,000 kg. The determination means 123 can, for example, calculate the total weight by adding up the weights included in the cargo information of the cargo to be loaded and compare this with the weight included in the specification information to determine whether the weight limit is satisfied.

[0093] Satisfying the load limit for each axle load of a transportation means that the load for each axle load is equal to or less than a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold may be, for example, a value determined by law or the like, or a value determined by the user. The predetermined value may be, for example, 10,000 kg. Each axle load can be calculated by solving simultaneous equations consisting of a weight balance equation and a moment balance equation based on the position and weight of the luggage in the luggage compartment, and the position and weight of the center of gravity of the vehicle. The simultaneous equations for calculating each axle load (F1, F2, R1, R2) of a tractor are as follows (see Figure 7 for the definition of each letter):

number

[0094] Similarly, the axle weight of each trailer can be calculated.

[0095] The determination means 123 can, for example, calculate each axle weight for the cargo to be loaded as described above and compare it with a predetermined threshold value to determine whether the load limit for each axle weight is met.

[0096] Meeting the luggage compartment dimensional restrictions means that the luggage to be loaded fits within the luggage compartment dimensional range of the transportation means. The determination means 123 can, for example, calculate the dimensions of the space occupied by the luggage to be loaded from the size information included in the luggage information, and compare it with the size included in the specification information to determine whether the luggage compartment dimensional restrictions are met.

[0097] The stacking conditions define which cargoes may or may not be stacked. The determining means 123 can determine whether the stacking conditions are met based on a stacking flag, as will be described later.

[0098] The avoidance rules specify combinations of packages that should not be placed in the same cargo compartment. For example, combinations of packages that should not be placed in the same cargo compartment may be specified for temperature range, shape characteristics, hazardous materials, dirt, odor, pallet type, and package type. For example, under the avoidance rules, with regard to temperature range, refrigerated packages will not be placed in the same cargo compartment as frozen packages or packages that are kept at a fixed temperature. For example, under the avoidance rules, with regard to pallet type, packages that use plastic pallets will not be placed in the same cargo compartment as packages that use wooden pallets. The determination means 123 can determine whether the avoidance rules are being followed, for example, based on attribute values ​​included in the package information.

[0099] Following the height order of the luggage compartment means that luggage (if stacked, luggage after stacking) is arranged in order of height from the front to the rear of the luggage compartment. The determination means 123 can determine whether the height order is followed based on the height included in the luggage information of the luggage to be loaded.

[0100] The left-right balance condition in the luggage compartment is to achieve balance between the left and right sides (i.e., width direction) of the luggage compartment in the following order of priority. (1) Place cargo of the same type on the left and right pallets as much as possible. (2) Place luggage on both sides of the car with the same length as much as possible. (3) Arrange piles of luggage with the same cargo composition on both sides of the accompanying vehicle as much as possible. (4) Arrange cargo piles as close in height as possible on the left and right sides of the accompanying cargo. (5) When it is necessary to arrange stacks of cargo with different pallet types and lengths on the left and right sides of the same load, arrange them at the end of the entire load. The determining means 123 balances the left and right sides in accordance with the above.

[0101] The loading rules for stepped trailers are applied when the means of transport is a stepped trailer. The length of the upper tier of a stepped trailer can be extended or shortened within the tier extension range. The loading rules for stepped trailers are: (1) the same pallet size must be placed on the left and right of each row on the upper tier, and (2) when placing cargo below the tier, the front must be loaded up to the tier extension range, and the cargo at the boundary between the upper tier and the lower tier must be placed so that they touch each other at the front and rear. The determination means 123 determines whether the loading rules for stepped trailers are followed based on the arrangement of cargo in the cargo compartment of the stepped trailer.

[0102] Contact with the preceding baggage means that all baggage to be loaded (except for the frontmost baggage) contacts the adjacent baggage in front. The determining means 123 determines whether each baggage is contacting the preceding baggage based on the arrangement of the baggage in the luggage compartment.

[0103] The luggage arrangement determined by the determining means 123 is output from the system 100. The determined luggage arrangement may be stored in the database unit 200, for example. Alternatively, the determined luggage arrangement may be provided to the terminal device 300 via the network 400. The user of the terminal device 300 can load luggage in accordance with the determined luggage arrangement.

[0104] In this way, by solving the optimization problem under detailed constraints, it is possible to perform optimization by considering all possible options as long as the constraints are satisfied. This makes it possible to realize loading that maximizes loading efficiency even when there are many types of cargo.

[0105] Fig. 6B shows another example of the configuration of the processor unit 120. In the example shown in Fig. 6B, the system 100 has a configuration similar to that described above with reference to Fig. 6A, except that the system 100 further includes an applying means 124. Therefore, the same components as those described above with reference to Fig. 6A are denoted by the same reference numerals, and detailed description thereof will be omitted here.

[0106] The package information received by the first receiving means 121 is passed to the providing means 124 .

[0107] The assigning means 124 is configured to assign a stacking flag to the luggage information of each luggage. The stacking flag includes an upper space availability flag (i.e., a flag indicating whether luggage of the same weight or less can be placed on top (referred to as "upper space availability luggage")), an upper space availability flag (i.e., a flag indicating whether luggage can be placed on top space availability luggage), and a same type luggage stacking availability flag (i.e., a flag indicating whether luggage of the same type can be stacked).

[0108] The assigning means 124 may assign a stacking flag to the baggage information of each baggage based on, for example, a user's input, or may automatically assign a stacking flag to the baggage information of each baggage based on, for example, the attributes of the baggage. The assigning means 124 can automatically assign a stacking flag, for example, by using a trained model that has learned the relationship between the attributes of the baggage and the stacking flag. For example, a trained model can be constructed by learning a plurality of bags using the attributes of the bags as input training data and the stacking flag to be assigned to the bags as output training data. When the attributes of a new baggage are input to this trained model, the stacking flag to be assigned to the baggage can be output.

[0109] The package information to which the stacking flag has been assigned by the assigning means 124 is passed to the determining means 1233 .

[0110] The determination means 123 can determine the placement of each piece of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information, stacking flags, and specification information.

[0111] The determination means 123 determines multiple candidates for the placement of each piece of luggage based on, for example, the luggage information and the specification information. The determination means 123 can determine multiple candidates for the placement of each piece of luggage by solving an optimization problem to minimize or maximize an objective function under multiple constraint conditions, for example, as described above with reference to FIG. 6A. The multiple constraint conditions may be the ones described above, some of them, or other ones.

[0112] Next, whether each of the plurality of candidates complies with the stacking conditions can be determined based on the stacking flags of all the luggage included in the candidate. The determining means 123 can determine the candidates that are determined to comply with the stacking conditions as the placement of each luggage in the luggage compartment.

[0113] Any arrangement pattern is permissible as long as it complies with the stacking conditions. For example, the arrangement determined by the determination means 123 may include an arrangement in which cargoes of different sizes are stacked, as shown in FIG. 1. The arrangement determined by the determination means 123 may also include an arrangement in which cargoes are stacked three or more levels high. In this way, by allowing for a large number of arrangement patterns, it becomes easier to achieve stacking that maximizes loading efficiency, even for a large number of types of cargo.

[0114] In the above example, the arrangement of luggage in the luggage compartment of a transportation means for one flight was described, but the system 100 can also determine the arrangement of luggage in the luggage compartment of each transportation means for multiple flights when there are multiple flights from the departure point to the arrival point.

[0115] For example, the determination means 123 can determine the arrangement of luggage within the transportation means for each of the multiple flights, as described above, on the assumption that each of the multiple flights operates normally.

[0116] Alternatively, the determination means 123 can determine the operation mode of each of the multiple flights and determine the distribution of luggage within the transportation means for each flight in the determined operation mode. The operation mode includes, for example, normal operation and suspension. If the transportation means is a full trailer (i.e., has two luggage compartments), the operation mode can include normal operation, suspension, and single-car operation. That is, if the transportation means has multiple removable luggage compartments, the operation mode can include normal operation, suspension, and operation with at least one of the multiple luggage compartments removed. For example, the cost of suspension and the cost of single-car operation (the cost of operation with at least one of the multiple luggage compartments removed) should be lower than the cost of normal operation. Therefore, by appropriately changing the operation mode, the operation cost can be reduced when viewed across the multiple flights.

[0117] The determination means 123 solves the optimization problem by adding the operation mode of each flight to the variables. By solving the optimization problem, the determination means 123 determines the operation mode of each of the multiple flights so as to minimize the cost of transporting multiple types of luggage from the departure point to the arrival point, determines which flight each luggage should be transported by, and determines the arrangement of luggage in the luggage compartment of the transportation means of the determined flight.

[0118] Fig. 8A shows an example of the results of solving the optimization problem while fixing the operation mode to normal operation, and Fig. 8B shows an example of the results of solving the optimization problem while adding the operation mode as a variable. In this example, the baggage information, specification information, and flight information shown in Figs. 5A to 5C were used.

[0119] First, an example of the results of solving the optimization problem while fixing the operation mode to normal operation will be described.

[0120] As a result of solving the optimization problem, for flight S3 using vehicle 111, a cargo arrangement was determined in which cargo A was loaded onto the tractor and cargo C was loaded onto the trailer at departure point α, and for flight N1, a cargo arrangement was determined in which cargo I was loaded onto the tractor at departure point β. For flight S4 using vehicle 222, a cargo arrangement was determined in which cargo B was loaded onto the tractor and cargo E was loaded onto the trailer at departure point α, and for flight N2, it was determined that no cargo would be loaded. For flight N3 using vehicle 333, a cargo arrangement was determined in which cargo F was loaded onto the tractor and cargo H was loaded onto the trailer at departure point β, and for flight S1, a cargo arrangement was determined in which cargo D was loaded onto the tractor at departure point α. For flight N4 using vehicle 444, the cargo arrangement was decided to load cargo G onto the tractor and cargo J onto the trailer at departure point β, and for flight S2, it was decided that no cargo would be loaded. Although the loading efficiency of each transportation means was optimized, the operating cost for the entire flight was 8 due to normal operation.

[0121] Next, an example of the results of solving the optimization problem by adding the operation mode as a variable will be explained.

[0122] As a result of solving the optimization problem, for S3 using vehicle 111, the cargo arrangement was determined to be that cargo A is loaded onto the tractor and cargo C is loaded onto the trailer at departure point α, and for N1, the cargo arrangement was determined to be that cargo G is loaded onto the tractor and cargo J is loaded onto the trailer at departure point β. For S4 using vehicle 222, the cargo arrangement was determined to be that cargo B is loaded onto the tractor at departure point α, and for N2, the cargo arrangement was determined to be that cargo I is loaded onto the tractor at departure point β, and because trailers are not used on the round trip of this flight, it was decided to change the operation mode to "single vehicle." For N3 using vehicle 333, the cargo arrangement was determined to be that cargo F is loaded onto the tractor and cargo H is loaded onto the trailer at departure point β, and for S1, the cargo arrangement was determined to be that cargo D is loaded onto the tractor and cargo E is loaded onto the trailer at departure point α. As for flights N4 and S2 using vehicle 444, no cargo was loaded and it was decided to "suspend" the operation.

[0123] By converting car 222 into a single car and suspending car 444, the operating costs for the entire multiple flights have been reduced to 7.1.

[0124] In this way, by solving the optimization problem while adding the operation mode of each flight as a variable, it becomes possible to reduce costs and realize loading that maximizes loading efficiency.

[0125] 6A and 6B, the components of the processor unit 120 are provided in the same processor unit 120, but the present invention is not limited to this. A configuration in which the components of the processor unit 120 are distributed across multiple processor units is also within the scope of the present invention. In this case, the multiple processor units may be located in the same hardware component, or in separate hardware components located nearby or remotely.

[0126] Each component of the system 100 described above may be composed of a single hardware component or multiple hardware components. When composed of multiple hardware components, the manner in which the hardware components are connected does not matter. The hardware components may be connected wirelessly or by wire. The system 100 of the present invention is not limited to a specific hardware configuration. It is also within the scope of the present invention for the processor unit 120 to be configured using analog circuits rather than digital circuits. The configuration of the system 100 of the present invention is not limited to the one described above as long as it can realize its functions.

[0127] 3. Processing in a system for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together 9 shows an example of a process 900 in the system 100 for determining the arrangement of cargo when multiple types of cargo are transported together. The process 900 is executed, for example, in the processor unit 120 having the configuration described above with reference to FIG. 6B.

[0128] In step S901, the first receiving means 121 of the processor unit 120 receives luggage information for each of the multiple luggage to be transported. The luggage information may include, for example, a luggage ID, departure and arrival location information (e.g., drop-off location, drop-off date, drop-off time, delivery location, delivery date, delivery time), size, weight, and quantity. The luggage information may also include attribute values ​​that represent attributes of the luggage.

[0129] In step S902, the assigning means 124 of the processor unit 120 assigns a stacking flag to the luggage information of each luggage. The stacking flag includes an upper space availability flag (i.e., a flag indicating whether the luggage can have luggage of the same weight or less placed on top (referred to as "top space availability luggage")), an upper space availability flag (i.e., a flag indicating whether the luggage can be placed on top space availability luggage), and a same type of luggage stacking availability flag (i.e., a flag indicating whether luggage of the same type can be stacked). The assigning means 124 may assign a stacking flag to the luggage information of each luggage based on, for example, a user input, or may automatically assign a stacking flag to the luggage information of each luggage based on, for example, the attributes of the luggage.

[0130] In step S903, the second receiving means 122 of the processor unit 120 receives the specification information of the vehicle. The specification information may include, for example, the size and weight of the vehicle, and luggage compartment information.

[0131] In step S904, the determination means 123 of the processor unit 120 determines the placement of each of the multiple pieces of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information received in step S901, the stacking flags assigned in step S902, and the specification information received in step S903. The determination means 123 can determine the placement of each piece of luggage so as to satisfy multiple constraints and maximize the loading efficiency in the luggage compartment, for example. For example, the determination means 123 determines multiple candidates for the placement of each piece of luggage by solving an optimization problem so as to minimize or maximize an objective function under multiple constraints, and determines whether each of the multiple candidates complies with the stacking conditions based on the stacking flags of all the pieces of luggage included in that candidate. As a result, the candidate determined to comply with the stacking conditions can be determined as the placement of each piece of luggage in the luggage compartment.

[0132] It should be noted that step S902 may be omitted, in which case process 900 may be performed in processor unit 120 having the configuration described above with reference to FIG. 6A, for example.

[0133] In step S904, the determining means of the processor unit 120 determines the placement of the luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information received in step S901 and the specification information received in step S903.

[0134] Furthermore, if there are multiple flights between the departure point and the arrival point, the arrangement of luggage in the luggage compartment of each of the transportation means of the multiple flights is determined in step S904. For example, the operation mode of each of the multiple flights can be determined, and the arrangement of luggage in the transportation means of each flight for the determined operation mode can be determined.

[0135] In the example described above with reference to FIG. 9, the processes are described as being performed in a specific order, but the order of each process is not limited to that described and may be performed in any order that is logically possible.

[0136] In the example described above with reference to Fig. 9, the processing of each step shown in Fig. 9 can be realized by the processor unit 120 and a program stored in the memory unit 130, but the present invention is not limited to this. At least one of the processing of each step shown in Fig. 9 may be realized by a hardware configuration such as a control circuit.

[0137] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments. It is understood that the scope of the present invention should be interpreted only by the claims. It is understood that a person skilled in the art can implement an equivalent scope based on the description of the present invention and common technical knowledge from the description of specific preferred embodiments of the present invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0138] The present invention is useful for providing a system or the like for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together, so that many types of cargo can be appropriately mixed together. [Explanation of symbols]

[0139] 10. Baggage Information 20 Specifications 100 systems 200 Database Department 300 Terminal Equipment 400 Network

Claims

1. A system for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together, comprising: A means for receiving package information for each of a plurality of types of packages; means for assigning stacking flags to the luggage information of each luggage, the stacking flags including a flag indicating whether the luggage is an upper-usable luggage on which luggage of the same weight or less can be placed, a flag indicating whether the luggage can be placed on an upper-usable luggage, and a flag indicating whether the luggage can be stacked with the same type of luggage; means for receiving vehicle specification information; a means for determining the placement of each piece of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information, the stacking flag, and the specification information; A system comprising:

2. The determining means comprises: determining a plurality of candidate placements; determining whether each of the plurality of candidate layouts complies with a stacking condition based on the stacking flag; The system of claim 1 configured to:

3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the determined arrangement includes an arrangement in which loads of different sizes are stacked.

4. The system of claim 1 , wherein the determined arrangement includes an arrangement in which the luggage is stacked three or more levels high.

5. The system according to claim 1 , wherein the means for assigning a stacking flag is configured to automatically assign a stacking flag to the package information based on an attribute of the package.

6. 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the determining means is configured to determine the layout so as to satisfy a plurality of constraints and maximize loading efficiency in the luggage compartment, the constraints including compliance with the stacking condition, and the determining means determines whether the stacking condition is complied with based on the stacking flag.

7. 7. The system of claim 6, wherein the plurality of constraints further include at least one of satisfying a weight limit of the transportation means, satisfying a load limit for each axle load of the transportation means, satisfying a luggage compartment dimensional limit, complying with an avoidance rule, complying with a luggage compartment height order, complying with a left-right balance condition in the luggage compartment, complying with a loading rule for a stepped trailer, and contacting a preceding load.

8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the determining means is implemented using a quantum computer.

9. A system for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together, comprising: A means for receiving package information for each of a plurality of types of packages; means for receiving specification information for each of the means of transport; a means for determining the placement of each piece of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information and the specification information; wherein the determining means determines the layout so as to satisfy a plurality of constraints and maximize loading efficiency in the luggage compartment; The plurality of constraint conditions include satisfying weight limits of the plurality of transportation means, satisfying load limits of each axle weight of the plurality of transportation means, satisfying cargo compartment dimensional limits, complying with stacking conditions, complying with avoidance rules, complying with cargo compartment height order, complying with left-right balance conditions in the cargo compartment, complying with loading rules for stepped trailers, and contacting preceding cargo.

10. A system for determining the arrangement of cargo when transporting a plurality of types of cargo together from a departure point to a destination, wherein there are a plurality of flights from the departure point to the destination, each of the plurality of flights being configured by a transportation means having at least one cargo compartment, and each of the plurality of flights being associated with at least an operating cost when operating from the departure point to the destination and a cancellation cost when canceling the service, and the system: A means for receiving package information for each of a plurality of types of packages; means for receiving specification information of the transportation means for each of the plurality of flights; means for determining an operation mode for each of the plurality of flights based on the luggage information and the specification information so as to minimize the cost of transporting the plurality of types of luggage from the departure point to the arrival point, and for determining the flight on which each luggage should be transported and the arrangement of the luggage in a luggage compartment of one of the transportation means of the flight; A system comprising:

11. 11. The system of claim 10, wherein the transportation means of each of the plurality of flights has at least two cargo compartments, and each of the plurality of flights further has a partial operating cost when operating at least a portion of the journey from the origin to the destination using some of the at least two cargo compartments.

12. A method for determining the placement of cargo when transporting multiple types of cargo together, comprising: receiving package information for each of a plurality of types of packages; Adding a stacking flag to the luggage information of each luggage, the stacking flag including a flag indicating whether the luggage is an upper-usable luggage on which luggage of the same weight or less can be placed, a flag indicating whether the luggage can be placed on an upper-usable luggage, and a flag indicating whether the luggage can be stacked with the same type of luggage; receiving vehicle specification information; determining the arrangement of each piece of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information, the stacking flag, and the specification information; A method comprising:

13. A program for determining the placement of cargo when transporting a mixture of multiple types of cargo, the program being executed by a computer having a processor unit, the program comprising: receiving package information for each of a plurality of types of packages; Adding a stacking flag to the luggage information of each luggage, the stacking flag including a flag indicating whether the luggage is an upper-usable luggage on which luggage of the same weight or less can be placed, a flag indicating whether the luggage can be placed on an upper-usable luggage, and a flag indicating whether the luggage can be stacked with the same type of luggage; receiving vehicle specification information; determining the arrangement of each piece of luggage in the luggage compartment based on the luggage information, the stacking flag, and the specification information; A program that causes the processor to execute a process including the steps of:

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