Announcing dynamic preparation rules for route optimization

In the world of logistics and transportation, flexibility and precision are key drivers of operational success. The new Dynamic Preparation Rules feature in the Route Optimization OptiFlow API brings a new level of adaptability to route planning by dynamically adjusting preparation durations based on various properties.
 

Understanding Constraints and Rules in Route Optimization

Constraints and rules are foundational elements of any optimization process. They govern the relationships and interactions between entities such as vehicles, orders, tasks, and depots. Let’s take a closer look at their distinct roles:

  • Constraints: These are typically strict, non-negotiable boundaries that define the framework for optimization. Constraints ensure that specific conditions are always upheld, such as assigning certain orders to specific vehicles or adhering to a defined sequence of tasks.
  • Rules: While constraints ensure feasibility, rules introduce a layer of flexibility. They allow dynamic adjustments to operational properties, enabling fine-tuning of behavior to address specific scenarios or requirements. For instance, preparation durations at locations can now be tailored based on the vehicle or preceding task.


This distinction underscores how constraints and rules work hand-in-hand to ensure efficient, tailored optimization processes.

 

What’s New: Dynamic Preparation Rules

This new feature enhances the capability of rules by allowing the dynamic adjustment of preparation durations at stops. This adjustment is based on context-specific factors such as the vehicle assigned to the stop or the sequence of locations. Here’s how this feature can make a real-world impact:

Example 1: Adjusting for Task Types

 

In operations involving both pickup and delivery tasks, dynamic rules can allocate additional time at delivery stops when preceded by a pickup task. This allows for activities such as reorganizing the truck, moving picked-up goods, and creating space for unloading the delivery order. By accounting for these practical needs, the feature improves operational efficiency and task execution.


Example 2: Responding to Weather Conditions

Adverse weather, such as a snowy day, often disrupts routine operations. With dynamic rules, you can increase the preparation durations for all customer locations by a factor, such as 50%, to account for delays and ensure smooth operations despite challenging conditions. This proactive approach helps mitigate the impact of unforeseen variables.

 

Benefits for Your Operations


The introduction of Dynamic Preparation Rules opens up a world of possibilities for tailored route optimization.
 
Key benefits include:
  • Enhanced Precision: Account for real-world complexities by dynamically adapting preparation times.
  • Increased Flexibility: Respond to unique operational challenges with context-aware adjustments.
  • Improved Efficiency: Minimize delays and streamline task execution through better planning.
  • Proactive Planning: Prepare for unexpected disruptions, such as adverse weather or changing priorities.


Explore the Details

To learn more about the technical implementation and explore the full potential of Dynamic Preparation Rules, visit:

By Stephan Ruppert

Principal Product Manager for Developer Components at PTV Logistics.