Transit Route Link Segmentation for Performance Data Attribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transit organizations face challenges in identifying drivers and vehicles that require targeted training or servicing due to the influence of various parameters on fuel economy and performance metrics, making it difficult to attribute poor fuel economy correctly and prioritize vehicles for maintenance.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for storing performance data using a computer system that divides transit routes into links, associates performance data with these links using GPS coordinates, and stores distance information to enable accurate attribution and comparison of driver and vehicle performance across similar routes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If performance data is collected and analyzed for full runs across entire routes, then complete performance information is obtained, but the analysis cannot identify issues quickly and cannot compare performance across similar routes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides routes into segments called links, which are smaller portions of routes between specific points. This segmentation allows performance data to be collected and analyzed for smaller time intervals rather than waiting for complete runs, enabling quicker identification of performance issues while maintaining analysis accuracy through the link-based structure.
2Loss of energy
If driver training programs are implemented to improve fuel economy, then fuel savings are achieved, but training costs and operational interruption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a feedback mechanism that continuously monitors performance data, compares it against established thresholds, and provides real-time information about driver and vehicle performance. This feedback system enables identification of underperforming drivers and vehicles without requiring comprehensive training programs, allowing targeted interventions that reduce fuel consumption while minimizing operational disruption.
3Reliability
If vehicles are monitored continuously for maintenance needs, then early detection of issues is achieved, but monitoring infrastructure and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables vehicles to self-monitor their own performance by collecting data from onboard sensors and automatically comparing it against predefined thresholds. The system performs self-diagnosis and identification of maintenance needs without requiring constant external monitoring infrastructure, reducing operational complexity while maintaining high reliability through continuous self-assessment of vehicle condition.
4Productivity
If performance metrics are compared across different routes, then overall performance assessment is improved, but route-specific factors such as traffic conditions and weather create inaccurate comparisons
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by analyzing performance data at the link level rather than comparing entire routes. Each link is treated as a distinct unit with its own performance characteristics, allowing comparisons to be made between similar links while accounting for route-specific factors. This enables accurate performance assessment by focusing on locally comparable segments rather than making broad cross-route comparisons.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to systems and methods for storing performance data in a transit organization. Sets of performance data for runs over a plurality of routes are stored. The routes are divided into links. Associations between the sets of performance data and the links are also stored.