Machine Arrival Scheduling for Worksite Loading Congestion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for managing fleets of machines at a worksite do not effectively cause machines to arrive at a loading area at staggered times, leading to congestion and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that determine an arrival time separation threshold for machines at a worksite, using a processor to generate machine instructions that cause individual machines to arrive at the loading area at staggered times separated by at least the threshold.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple machines arrive at the loading area simultaneously, then the loading area can be utilized more intensively, but congestion and idle times increase reducing overall efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic action by establishing an arrival time separation threshold that creates regular intervals between machine arrivals at the loading area. The processor determines this threshold based on loading duration and travel time, then generates instructions to space arrivals periodically, preventing congestion while maintaining continuous operation. This resolves the contradiction by transforming simultaneous arrivals into a controlled periodic sequence that optimizes both utilization and efficiency.
2Productivity
If machines arrive at the loading area with no separation, then the system operates continuously without gaps, but machines block each other causing delays
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies preliminary action by calculating and establishing the arrival time separation threshold in advance, before machines actually arrive at the loading area. The processor determines this threshold based on expected loading durations and travel times, then proactively schedules machine arrivals to maintain proper spacing. This prevents blocking issues before they occur while ensuring continuous operation, resolving the contradiction between continuous productivity and operational ease.
3Ease of operation
If an arrival time separation threshold is enforced, then congestion is reduced and machines operate smoothly, but requires complex coordination and control systems
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service by enabling machines to autonomously determine and adhere to the arrival time separation threshold without requiring complex centralized control. Each machine receives instructions from the processor regarding its scheduled arrival time, then independently adjusts its travel and loading operations to meet this threshold. This reduces congestion while minimizing control system complexity, as machines self-regulate based on simple temporal constraints rather than requiring sophisticated real-time coordination.
Data Source
AI summary
A job at a worksite can be performed by machines that deliver material from a loading area to various drop points at the worksite. A computing system can generate machine instructions that cause machines to arrive at the loading area at staggered arrival times that are separated by at least an arrival time separation threshold. The computing system can also adjust the arrival time separation threshold over time, for instance due to changes to durations of time for individual machines to perform operations within the loading area autonomously or based on operator input.