Fleet Arrival Prediction Using Global and Local Learning Models

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for predicting arrival times and managing vehicle fleets are not adequately accurate, especially when vehicles deviate from generalized models, leading to inefficiencies in resource allocation and customer satisfaction.

Innovation Solution

A system utilizing a global self-learning model and local self-learning models, which receive and process vehicle and environmental data to estimate schedule parameters like arrival times, with an interaction model that updates based on measured data for improved accuracy and adaptability.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If static methods based on basic estimations are used, then the system is simple to operate, but the prediction accuracy of arrival times is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprediction accuracyVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The prediction system is segmented into multiple specialized models: a first prediction model for normal operating conditions and a second prediction model for anomaly conditions. Each model is optimized for specific scenarios, improving overall prediction accuracy without requiring a single overly complex system. The segmentation allows the system to handle different operational contexts with appropriate specialized algorithms.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically selects between different prediction models based on real-time operating conditions. When anomalies are detected, the system switches from the first prediction model to the second prediction model. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain high prediction accuracy across varying conditions without permanently increasing system complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If generalized assumptions are used for all vehicles, then the system is easy to implement, but it cannot accurately predict arrival times for vehicles that deviate from the model

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different vehiclesVSAvoidprediction accuracy
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSMeasurement precision

Solution Approach 1:

The system applies different prediction strategies to different vehicles based on their individual characteristics and operating patterns. The anomaly detection mechanism identifies vehicle-specific deviations, and the second prediction model is selectively applied only to vehicles exhibiting anomalous behavior. This local customization improves prediction accuracy for non-conforming vehicles without requiring complete reconfiguration of the entire fleet management system.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes prediction parameters dynamically based on vehicle performance data. When a vehicle's actual performance deviates from the generalized model parameters, the system adjusts by switching to alternative parameters and models that better fit the observed behavior. This parameter adaptation enables accurate prediction for diverse vehicle types while maintaining the simplicity of generalized modeling for standard vehicles.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Measurement precision

If real-time data based systems are used, then prediction accuracy improves compared to static methods, but the system still relies on generalized assumptions that are not applicable to all situations

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveprediction accuracyVSAvoidapplicability to all situations
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically adapts its prediction approach based on real-time data analysis. The anomaly detection component continuously monitors vehicle performance and dynamically switches between prediction models. This dynamic behavior allows the system to maintain high prediction accuracy for standard vehicles using efficient generalized models while automatically adapting to handle exceptional cases with specialized models, thereby achieving both accuracy and versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system incorporates feedback mechanisms that compare predicted arrival times with actual performance data. When deviations are detected, the feedback loop triggers anomaly detection and model switching. This feedback-driven adaptation ensures the system learns from real-world performance and adjusts its prediction strategies accordingly, improving both accuracy and applicability across diverse operational situations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentUS12198080B2Method and system for operating a fleet of vehicles
Publication Date: 2025.01.14 VOLVO AUTONOMOUS SOLUTIONS AB
  • US12198080B2 patent drawing
  • US12198080B2 patent drawing
  • US12198080B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A method for operating a plurality of vehicles is disclosed. The method comprises receiving (101) a first set of vehicle data and a second set of vehicle data, the vehicle data comprising information about each vehicle of the plurality of vehicles, each vehicle operating along at least one fixed route, receiving (102) a first set of environmental data and a second set of environmental data, the environmental data comprising information about each fixed route, and estimating (103), by means of the global self-learning model and each local-self learning model, a schedule parameter for each vehicle of the plurality of vehicles based on the received first set of vehicle data, the received first set of environmental data, the received second set of vehicle data, the received second set of environmental data, and a predefined interaction model between the global self-learning model and each local-self learning model. The method further comprises receiving (104) a measured schedule parameter for each vehicle, comparing (105) the estimated schedule parameter with the received measured schedule parameter, and updating (106) the global self-learning model and each local self-learning model based on the comparison of the estimated schedule parameter with the received measured schedule parameter.