Fleet Vehicle Coordination for Congested Loading Sites
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Solution Overview
Problem
Autonomous vehicles face operational inefficiencies in loading and delivery processes due to the absence of a human operator, leading to issues like delayed or inefficient loading/unloading at sites, congestion, and outdated site management systems.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for operating fleet vehicles that includes collecting and processing inputs from sensors and user interfaces to determine actions, such as optimizing routes and site management, and triggering actions like re-routing or adjusting schedules, to improve efficiency and safety by providing real-time site awareness and dynamic environmental representations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If autonomous vehicles operate without human operators, then automation level increases, but operational efficiency at loading/delivery sites deteriorates due to lack of real-time site awareness and coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a centralized server as an intermediary that receives sensor data from autonomous vehicles and site management systems, processes this information, and coordinates actions between vehicles and site operations. This mediator enables autonomous vehicles to operate efficiently without human operators by facilitating real-time communication and coordination through the server infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where sensors on autonomous vehicles and at sites collect real-time data about vehicle locations, site conditions, and operational status. This feedback is processed by the server to dynamically adjust vehicle routes, scheduling, and site coordination, enabling autonomous vehicles to adapt to changing conditions and maintain operational efficiency without human intervention.
2Loss of information
If real-time data collection and processing is implemented across the fleet, then operational awareness and coordination improve, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal sensor systems and standardized communication protocols that can be deployed across multiple autonomous vehicles and site locations. The centralized server provides multi-functional capabilities including data aggregation, processing, vehicle coordination, and site management. This universal approach enables real-time site awareness across the entire fleet while avoiding the complexity of customized solutions for each vehicle or site.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for operation of fleet vehicles includes collecting a set of inputs; processing the set of inputs to determine a set of actions associated with a vehicle and/or a site; and triggering the set of actions. Additionally or alternatively, the method can include aggregating any or all of the set of inputs, and/or any other suitable processes. A system for operation of fleet vehicles can include and/or interface with any or all of: a computing subsystem, a set of management subsystems, a set of user interfaces, a set of sensors, a set of fleet vehicles, a set of non-fleet vehicles, and/or any other components.