Discrete-Event Travel Simulation with Region-Level Mutual Exclusion
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing grid-based travel simulations implement spatial mutual exclusion at a grid-node level, limiting applications that require spatial mutual exclusion in regions larger than single grid nodes, and lack scalability in managing multiple mobile entities.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for discrete-event travel simulation that introduces region-level mutual exclusion, allowing a defined number of entities in each region, using data structures to manage entry and exit of mobile entities from exclusion regions, and employing path-finding algorithms to avoid collisions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If grid-node level spatial mutual exclusion is implemented, then collision avoidance between mobile entities is achieved, but the system cannot handle applications requiring spatial mutual exclusion in regions larger than single grid nodes
Solution Approach 1:
The simulation space is segmented into multiple regions, each with its own exclusion constraints. Instead of treating the entire grid as a single exclusion zone, the system divides it into manageable regional units that can be independently controlled and monitored
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from node-level (0D point) exclusion to region-level (2D area) exclusion by adding spatial dimensionality. This is achieved by introducing region identifiers and tracking entity positions at the regional level rather than individual node level
2Reliability
If multiple mobile entities are simulated with detailed tracking, then accurate collision avoidance is achieved, but computational overhead increases in complex scenarios
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple tracking functions into a unified region-based tracking system. Instead of separately tracking each entity's position, velocity, and collision status independently, the system merges this information at the regional level, reducing redundant computations
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs partial tracking by monitoring entity positions at region boundaries rather than continuously throughout the entire path. This selective monitoring approach maintains collision avoidance reliability while reducing the frequency and computational cost of position checks
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and apparatus, including medium-encoded computer program products include: obtaining i) a simulation space comprising a grid of nodes, ii) a definition of one or more regions in the simulation space containing one or more nodes of the grid of nodes, wherein each region of the one or more regions is associated with a respective predetermined number of mobile entities allowed to be located simultaneously in the region, and iii) for each node of the grid of nodes, a region set identifier; and performing a discrete event travel simulation of two or more mobile entities without exceeding, for each region the one or more regions, the respective predetermined number of mobile entities allowed to be located simultaneously in the region.