Objective
PONTIFEX is developing an object-oriented decision-support framework for handling routing and scheduling problems, along with specific case studies in aircraft rotation and scheduling and the physical distribution domain. The integration of advanced operations research algorithms, knowledge representation methods and user interface management techniques is providing an innovative approach to this class of problems.
Representing the full complexity of routing and scheduling problems by means of mathematical models with algorithmic solutions is sometimes impossible. In these cases a routing and scheduling problem is best tackled by a decision support system (DSS). Planning of nonspecific transportation by an intelligent fleet expert (PONTIFEX) is a knowledge based DSS that integrates artificial intelligence (AI) with operations research (OR) functions, tailored for applications in the field of fleet scheduling. It can be used by people with little or no experience of OR.
The planning of nonspecific transportation by an intelligent fleet expert (PONTIFEX) project developed an object oriented decision support framework for handling routing and scheduling problems, along with specific case studies in aircraft rotation and scheduling and the physical distribution domain. The integration of advanced operations research algorithms, knowledge representation methods and user interface management techniques provided an innovative approach to this class of problems.
Several prototype applications have been built with the aim of focusing on real user requirements, testing different technical approaches and software architectures, and identifying the most suitable development/deployment environment. These developments have resulted in a flexible application model that clearly separates a reusable skeleton, or framework, from specific domain knowledge and algorithms.
As part of the framework, mechanisms for handling data consistency, encapsulating software modules, and specialized user interface objects have been developed. The tools set of modules includes innovative methods for solving temporal constraint satisfaction problems, as well as clustering and routing algorithms.
The PONTIFEX software runs on Unix workstations under the Motif graphical interface, and is written in Prolog and C. The following major deliverables are bein completed:
a general application framework, the Pontifex Application Framework (PAF), that includes domain independent services for building user interfaces, managing data consistency, and controlling the logic flow of execution;
a number of self contained domain oriented software modules (each module tackles 1 particular subproblem in the application area);
2 different applications, obtained by assembling the PAF and subsets of the above modules, for use in aircraft scheduling at Alitalia and Iberia.
Fields of science (EuroSciVoc)
- natural sciences computer and information sciences artificial intelligence
- natural sciences computer and information sciences software
- engineering and technology mechanical engineering vehicle engineering aerospace engineering aircraft
- natural sciences computer and information sciences knowledge engineering
- natural sciences mathematics applied mathematics mathematical model
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Data not available
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Data not available
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Data not available
Coordinator
20137 Milano
Italy
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.