Diploma in Integrated Logistics Mgt I.T. Applications in Logistics (ITAL)

Diploma in Integrated Logistics Mgt I.T. Applications in Logistics (ITAL) Chapter 6: I.T. in Transportation EE Khong Kie, Max B. Business Admin (2nd Upp) Hons, M.Sc (Logistics) Graduate Diploma in Systems Analysis (NUS)

Lesson Structure 1 Video – MyTransport.SG 2 Transport Mgt System 3 GPS, SMS and Telematics 4 Video – Cold Chain Track and Trace 5 Sample Questions

Video and Discussion Application : MyTransport.SG • Questions • Which government organization developed this application? • What applications can be found in MyTransport.SG?

Transportation Management Systems Distribution Centre Network Design and Selection Supply Network Transport Modes Load Planning Route Planning Routing Fleet Assignment Real-Time Redeployment Track and Trace Route Tracing Data Analysis

Types of TMS

Functions of TMS* Network Design Routing of Orders Order Processing Reports TMS: Transport Management System

#1 Network Design • Used at the beginning of a supply chain design. • To decide the number and location of production centres / distribution centres, the mode of transport and the movement between each node. • Allows inputs of objectives, constraints and parameters. • Software contains intelligent logic to run simulations and suggest most optimal solution.

#2 Order Processing / Interface TMS is useful for order processing. The software receives the order information and sends delivery information from and to other application software.

Information Exchange Business A is a Customer that sells medical supplies in Singapore. A uses a ERP with an Order Fulfillment module that lists and prints the daily orders for hospitals in Singapore. Business B is a 3PL.B uses a advanced TMS to receive the orders from A. The orders are then transmitted to a WMS for picking. At the same time, the orders are also processed into optimal routes and the manager is able to find out how many trucks he needs for tomorrow. The transmission medium could be through EDI, internet (VPN), email or even leased line.

#3 Routing of Orders To route orders quickly, the TMS can check the postal code. The postal code can categorize orders under same location zone into one truck. This makes the transportation more efficient by minimizing travelling time.

#4 Reports Example : Load Report Can be used for operations and management reports. One such report is the Load Report.

#4 Reports Example : Load Report

Global Positioning Systems (GPS) A GPS is a worldwide radio-navigation systems that uses satellites to calculate and communicate the precise location of an object/person on any points on earth.

Components of GPS GPS GPS Base Station GPS GPS in Action

How it works? Distance = Speed x Time satellite Radio Wave GPS Set GPS works by a process called triangulation.

How it works? The intersection point of the three circles will indicate the (x,y) or the latitude and longitude of the person/object (triangulation).

Factors Affecting Accuracy Atmospheric delays (refraction effect)

Factors Affecting Accuracy • Multi-path is a deflection problem due to the presence of high-rise buildings. • Due to the high rise building obstructing a straight path ‘line of sight’, the signal bounces off the building until it reaches to GPS set. • Very common in Singapore, Hong Kong and Tokyo.

GPS Applications Rescue Operations Fleet Tracking Auto Navigation GPS Intelligent Transport Systems Military Operations

Short Message Service (SMS) SMS Gateway Computer Internet Server Mobile Devices

SMS Benefits & Limitations Benefits Limitations Popular Use Limited Size Low Cost Reliability International Unguaranteed Easy to Launch No graphics Proven Technology Human intervention

How to use a Data Logger 2. Data logger records temperature at every 15 minutes interval in memory 1. Driver starts deliveries with products in reefer truck with a data logger inside the compartment. 4. The office clerk downloads the readings into a desktop with the software installed. The chart is displayed to playback the temperature profile throughout the journey. 3. At the end of delivery, driver submits the data logger to office

Sample Chart from a Temperature Data Logger

Telematics The integration of computers and wireless communications to improve information flow using the principles of telemetry This mobile technology can be used in cold chain to measure and monitor temperature gradient Telematics

Video and Discussion Application : Cold Chain Track and Trace • Questions • Which organizations are involved in this application? • What technologies are utilized? • What are the benefits in using this technology?

Use of Telematics in Cold Chain RFID in truck compartment detects an increasing temperature due to door not closed properly. A signal is sent to call centre via GPRS. The call centre examines the temperature profile and spots the problem. A SMS is sent to the driver to alert him on the problem. He stops the truck and closes the door. Temperature resumes to normal.

SUMMARY • I.T. in Transportation and Distribution have several applications. It is also one of the most visible . • The increasing need for delivering items on-time and ensure safety/security of cargo mean that companies will continue to invest in technology. • Mobile technology such as smart phone and location based services open a new world of applications.

Question 1 Tommy is a distribution supervisor. Everyday, he needs to check delivery orders manually and plan the route for each vehicle. If the company has a TMS, how can the routing be done faster? • Using the postal code to route each order • Using the customer name to route each order • Using the delivery order number to route each order • Using the invoice value to route each order Answer : A

Question 2 A consolidated load report can be used to Check the timeliness of delivery for each truck Check total number of cartons carried by each truck Check the products carried in each truck • I and II only • I and III only • II and III only • All of the Above Answer : C

Question 3 GPS uses the method of __________ to locate the position of a person of object on earth’s surface. • Refraction • Deflection • Detection • Triangulation Answer : D

Question 4 If a company has limited budget and timeline to implement track and trace, using SMS is favourable compared to GPS because • It is cheaper • It requires less investment in hardware • Most people have mobile phones • All of the Above Answer : D

Question 5 Which of the following is NOT a disadvantage of using SMS track and trace? • SMS has a limitation in the size of contents that could be sent • SMS can only send text • SMS requires specialised handsets to be issues to drivers • SMS is not a guaranteed service so delays could be expected Answer : C

Diploma in Integrated Logistics Mgt I.T. Applications in Logistics (ITAL)