Dynamic Event Scheduling Using Real-Time Travel Time
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional calendar software applications fail to efficiently account for travel time and traffic conditions when scheduling events, particularly for groups of people at different locations, leading to delays and inaccuracies in scheduling and reminders.
Innovation Solution
A system that automatically determines travel time for event participants by using location tracking, mapping, and real-time traffic services to dynamically schedule events and reminders, taking into account current conditions such as traffic, weather, and road construction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a fixed time reminder is set prior to the scheduled event, then the reminder can be easily configured, but the reminder cannot account for variable travel time caused by traffic, weather, or road construction
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from static fixed-time reminders to dynamic reminders that automatically adjust based on real-time travel conditions. The reminder time is no longer fixed but dynamically calculated based on current traffic, weather, and road construction data, allowing the system to adapt to changing conditions while maintaining ease of use.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates real-time feedback from traffic services, weather services, and location tracking to continuously monitor and adjust reminder timing. By receiving feedback on actual travel conditions and comparing them against the scheduled event time, the system can automatically modify when reminders are sent to ensure they arrive at the optimal moment.
2Measurement precision
If the user compensates for travel time when scheduling, then the appointment time can be accurate, but the user cannot use standard reminders and does not necessarily know when exactly the appointment starts
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs self-service by automatically calculating and applying travel time compensation without requiring manual user input. The calendar application autonomously determines travel time based on location data and real-time conditions, then automatically adjusts scheduling and reminder times, eliminating the need for users to manually compensate while maintaining accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary calculations of travel time and schedules reminders in advance based on estimated travel conditions. By pre-calculating travel time and setting reminders before the actual event, the system prepares the scheduling in advance while maintaining the ability to adjust if conditions change, combining accuracy with ease of use.
3Adaptability or versatility
If manual scheduling is used with offsite appointments, then the user can control availability, but travel time cannot be automatically accounted for and coordination becomes inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges multiple functions into a unified scheduling solution that combines availability control, travel time calculation, real-time condition monitoring, and automatic reminder setting. By integrating these functions, the system maintains the adaptability of manual scheduling while automatically adding efficiency through centralized processing of travel and availability data.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces an intermediary layer of automated travel time calculation and coordination between parties. This intermediary component automatically handles travel time adjustments and availability checks, reducing the manual coordination burden while maintaining the flexibility needed for offsite appointments and improving overall scheduling efficiency.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, apparatus and computer program product for using estimated travel time to schedule an event and/or an event reminder is presented. At least one scheduled event participant is determined, as is a location of the at least one scheduled event participant. A travel time of at least one scheduled event participant to travel to the scheduled event is computed. An event is scheduled for the at least one scheduled event participant, the scheduled event taking into account the computed travel time of the at least one scheduled event participant.