CA2646661A1 - System, apparatus and method for determining resource use and availability - Google Patents

Abstract

A resource information evaluation system comprising an input module configured to receive input data indicative of one or more resource requirements and one or more time intervals; a storage module configured to store information indicative of resource time parameters; a processing module operatively coupled to the input module and the storage module, the processing module configured to receive the input data and extract desired resource time parameters from the storage module, said processing module configured to determine resource information data based on the input data and the resource time parameters; and an output module operatively coupled to the processing module and configured to output the resource information data.

Description

SYSTEM, APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR
DETERMINING RESOURCE USE AND AVAILABILITY
FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention pertains to a system, apparatus and method for determining resource use and availability.

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[0002] Known systems and methods for determining resource requirements that have been consumed or will be required by an organization can be problematic.

[0003] Calculation of the passage of time by computers does not rely on decimal-based mathematical functions and therefore rely on difficult and problematic algorithms in the form of routines and/or scripts. Furthermore, jurisdictional-specific issues, including time-zones and the recognition of Daylight Savings Time, may arise, which are also typically dealt with by relying on routines and/or scripts. These routines and scripts vary across applications, operating systems, and program languages. For example, Unix systems have specific library subroutines that handle such conversions may also deal with adjustments for timezones, Daylight Saving Time (DST), leap seconds, and the user's locale settings.
The library routines are also generally provided that convert calendar times into system times.

[0004] In addition, there are a number of common systems of measuring time that may or may not be compatible with each other. For example, the following operating systems have different base-dates (epoch time), different resolution, and different routines for handling some of the user-specific issues outlined above: DOS (Windows), BIOS (IBM PC), Mac OS, Unix, and POSIX. Accordingly, application-specific options for time-based calculations have not been adequately developed.

[0005] Due to the limitations noted above existing systems and methods of calculating resource requirements lack comprehensive functionalities useful in resource allocation.
Accordingly, there is a need for a system and method that overcomes the shortcomings of the state of the art and that provide resource planners a means of determining resource use and availability over time that accounts for periods of non-availability or of different resource use conditions.

[0006] This background information is provided to reveal information believed by the applicant to be of possible relevance to the present invention. No admission is necessarily intended, nor should be construed, that any of the preceding information constitutes prior art against the present invention.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0007] An object of the present invention is to provide a system, apparatus and method for determining resource use and availability.

[0008] In accordance with one embodiment of the instant invention, there is provided a resource information evaluation system comprising an input module configured to receive input data indicative of one or more resource requirements and one or more time intervals;
a storage module configured to store information indicative of resource time parameters; a processing module operatively coupled to the input module and the storage module, the processing module configured to receive the input data and extract desired resource time parameters from the storage module, said processing module configured to determine resource information data based on the input data and the resource time parameters; and an output module operatively coupled to the processing module and configured to output the resource information data.

[0009] In accordance with another embodiment of the instant invention, there is provided a method of determining resource requirements comprising the steps of providing input data indicative of resource requirements and one or more time intervals; obtaining predetermined resource time parameters from a storage module; determining resource information data based on said resource requirements and one or more time intervals, and said resource time parameters; and outputting the resource information data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0010] Figure 1 is a diagrammatic representation of a resource evaluation apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0011] Figure 2 depicts elements of the input module of Figure 1.

[0012] Figure 3 depicts a screen shot of an input module according to an embodiment of the present invention configured to determine resource data relating to time intervals.

[0013] Figure 4 depicts a screen shot of an input module according to an embodiment of the present invention configured to allocate resources over time.

[0014] Figure 5 depicts elements of the processor module of Figure 1.

[0015] Figure 6 illustrates a resource information evaluation apparatus configured as a handheld device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 7 illustrates a method of resource information evaluation according to one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Definitions

[0017] The term "person-hour" is used to define the amount of work performed by an average worker in one hour. It may often be used to quantify the amount of time required for a task by dividing the total number of person-hours for the completion of the task by the number of workers available.

[0018] The term "client-side" refers to operations that are performed by the client in a client-server relationship. Typically, a client is a computer or computer application, and connects to a server as necessary. Operations may be performed client-side because they require access to information or functionality that is available on the client but not on the server, because the user needs to observe them or provide input, or because the server lacks the processing power to perform the operations in a timely manner for all of the clients it serves.

[0019] The term "server-side" refers to operations that are performed by the server in a client-server relationship in computer networking. Typically, a server is a remote computing device, reachable from a user's local computer or workstation.
Operations may be performed server-side because they require access to information or functionality that is not available on the client, require typical behaviour that is unreliable when it is done client-side, or operations require the processing and storage of data from a client to a server, which can be viewed by a group of clients.

[0020] The term "resource" may include human resources, materiel, or both.
Human resources may include, but are not limited to, employees, contractors, or consultants.
Materiel may include but is not limited to equipment, devices, machines, apparatuses. Any person or thing that may be required for a particular length of time may be considered to be a resource by a resource allocator or planner such as a manager or human resources professional.

[0021] The term "input information" refers to information that is supplied by the user to the system via the input module. This information is typically, but not necessarily, not pre-determined. It may include the length, beginning or end of one or more time intervals, the type and/or restrictions of resource requirements (e.g., equipment type or skill set), location/jurisdiction of resources, or availability pattern of a resource (e.g., shift type).

[0022] The term "resource information" refers to any information that is desired by the user and is related to the allocation of time-based resources, such as human resources or materiel, over one or more given time intervals. The various types of information, any of which may form input information or resource information that is determined by the processor, may include, but is not limited to, the start time, end time, or length of the one or more time intervals, the number of time intervals, public holidays and a count thereof, time zone information, jurisdiction information, jurisdiction in which the one or more intervals will start and end (if different), alternative calendars and time calculation methods relating and peculiar thereto, and shift related data (hours and days to worked within given interval according to a shift pattern or other contractual relationship). In one embodiment, certain types of information, including but not limited to those enumerated above, may be either or both input information or resource time parameter as stored in the storage module.

[0023] The terms "resource time parameter" or "resource time parameter information"
refer to information indicative of the availability of a resource, or lack thereof, relating to extraneous factors such as statutory holidays and legislative overtime periods. Resource time parameter information may include information relating to the resource indicating availability or suitability at a given time and for a particular task, information relating to a particular task, information relating to a cost rate (such as a rental rate) or pay rate (including regular and overtime rates) for a particular resource, and accrued and expended benefits as they may relate to an employee. Other administrative information relating to the operation of the system may also be considered to be resource time parameter information, including but not limited to report types and formats, steps or instructions (e.g., services or output types), user identification and passwords and user authority levels (e.g., administrator or client).

[0024] As used herein, the term "about" refers to a+/-10% variation from the nominal value. It is to be understood that such a variation is always included in a given value provided herein, whether or not it is specifically referred to.

[0025] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs.

[0026] The present invention provides a resource allocation system for determining or measuring resource allocation over time. The system comprises an input module that is configured to receive input information relating to, or indicative of, one or more resource requirements. The system further comprises a storage module configured to store information relating to resource time parameters that are used to assess allocation of resources in conjunction with the resource requirements. The system further comprises a processing module that is operatively configured to both the input module and the storage module and is configured to determine resource information relating to one or more of the resource requirements and the resource time parameters. The system further comprises an output module that is operatively coupled to the processing module and which is adapted to output the resource information to the user.

[0027] With reference to Figure 1, the system, generally referred to using the numeral 100 and in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, comprises one or more input modules 105, one or more output modules 110, one or more a processor module 115, and a storage module 120, all of which are communicatively and operatively coupled to a communication medium 125, which may be for example, circuitry or a network.
Alternatively, the processing module 115 may be operatively coupled directly to one or more storage modules 120, input modules 105, output modules 110, or any other device ) by a further communication medium that is unconnected to the first communication medium. The various modules and operative couplings provide for the determination of resource use and availability in accordance with any number of resource time parameters which may be internally or externally imposed on an organization.

[0028] In general, the system 100 facilitates the allocation of resources by a resource allocator, such as a manager or other human resources professional, by providing resource information related to a quantity of available or used resources. The system 100 may include pre-existing resource time parameters that define periods in which certain resources may not be available, or will be available according to certain conditions. The resource time parameters are stored in the storage module 120 or, alternatively, further resource time parameter data may be determined according to a set of data, or a set of rules or heuristics, all of which may also be stored in the storage module 120. The system is configured to receive input information regarding a resource (as may be required in the future or as provided for in the past) from a user, by way of the input module 105, and the processor module 115 is configured to assess the input information in conjunction with the required resource time parameter information stored in the storage module 120 and which is indicative of externally or internally imposed parameters on the availability of one or more resources. The resource time parameter information may be obtained from the storage module 120 by performing an information request. The processor module 115, after determining the requested resource information by assessing the input information in conjunction with the one or more resource time parameters, provides the resource information to the output module 110, which is configured to present the information to the user. The resource information may or may not be in accordance with a standard or customized report.

[0029] In one embodiment, the input module 105, the storage module 120, the processor module 115, and the output module 110 are implemented on a common single computing platform configured for intertacing user inputs communicated thereto via an appropriate user interface (e.g. graphical user interface) on the input module 105, and then processing the input information and resource time parameter information and interfacing with the output modules 110 in response to such inputs. The system 100 according to Figure 1 is depicted in accordance with one embodiment in which the various modules are disparately located and are operatively coupled to communicate via a worldwide web of interconnected computers and servers, such as the Internet. Such a configuration provides for a number of benefits, including the ability to perform server-side collection of data relating to multiple jurisdictions, large and varied workforces, and collections of materiel having a vast number of working criteria, and providing said data to many different resource allocators over a vast area. The person skilled in the art will readily understand upon reference to the following description, however, that various other local and/or networked configurations may be considered herein without departing from the general scope and nature of the present disclosure. The person of skill in the art will further understand that although the input, storage, processor, and output modules are depicted as separate and single/combined entities, any of these modules may comprise a number of software and/or hardware components, configured and operating independently or within a single device or computing platform, to provide system according to the present disclosure.

[0030] In general, the system, method, and apparatus disclosed herein receive input information relating to certain known or desired elements of a resource from a user and, optionally, information indicating the type of resource allocation information or report that should be returned by the system, method, and apparatus. The processor module processes the input information and the indication of report-type along with resource time parameter information stored on the storage module 120, and returns the result to the user via the output module 110. An exemplary report type supplied by the output module 110 that is provided for by one embodiment of the instant invention may include a report of the number of person-hours between first and second time indications whereby non-worked times, including weekends, statutory holidays in a selected jurisdiction, and pre-determined work-shift cycles, are accounted for in the report by removing these quantities from the desired result. Another exemplary report type that is provided for in another embodiment of thP inetant invP.ntinn mmu inolnrla a n Pnrl_t;ma .x71,PYP1- ~., õ+;+- õf ., .,;1.,.1~
-- --' ""- "'-- --- ..... ........ .....J .~....,..., ...a va.v uiav rriivavaiy u. qi.lalabil.y of available perJoll-hours is provided and non-worked times are accounted for in the outputted resource information.

[0031] In one embodiment, the input information and resource time parameter information may also be used in conjunction with more detailed information relating to resources. This supplemental resource information, which may include but is not limited to information such as hourly and overtime pay rates, equipment rental rates, resource availability, existence of necessary skills or functionalities, and available or consumed benefits, can be used in conjunction with input information to provide necessary information in order to determine and report on the cost of using certain resources to finish a particular task in a certain time, availability of resources or persons having a certain skill set, and quantity of time required to finish a task given the availability of necessary resources.

The Input Module

[0032] The input module generally accepts resource information from a user and, by way of an operative coupling, provides this information to the processor module.
The input information may include data relating to resource allocation that is known to the user, including, but not limited to, start time, end time, quantity of time available, quantity of time required, jurisdiction(s), location (or international time zone) information relating to resource requirements. In some embodiments, the input module will also accept from a user an indication of the desired type of resource information that the user wishes to have returned by the output module. The input module may also, in some embodiments, also accept resource time parameter information that could otherwise be stored in the storage processor module and thus is provided directly to the processor module in lieu of resource time parameter information obtained from the storage module by way of an information request. The input module may also be capable of receiving instructions for the creation of new report types relating to resource allocation information.

[0033] The input module, of which an embodiment is depicted in Figure 2, is used to receive information from a user relating to resource information. There can be a plurality of input modules accessing the processor module at any given time. In such cases, the input modules may remain substantially independent of each other, or capable of interfacing with each other to provide instant or real-time communication, such as "chatting", between end users obtaining resource information concurrently.
Alternatively, there may be a single input module that operates in isolation and in a secured manner with a given system. Input modules may exist as separate and disparately located computers, wherein communication is effected in a secure manner over a network, such as the Internet.
Alternatively, a system may comprise of a single input module which may in some yet other embodiments exist on the same physical platform as all other components (i.e., handheld computer, or personal digital assistant).

[0034] In the embodiment depicted in Figure 2, the input module 105 comprises a processor 210 that processes information as received from the user or from the one or more processor modules 115. The input module 105 also generally comprises a graphical user interface 205 to display information to the user and facilitate communication of instructions from the user via the input module 105 to processor module 115.
The input module 105 also generally comprises computing input devices 220, such as a mouse, keyboard or the like, for facilitating the provision of instructions or information from the user, and allow for the desired display of information and reports, navigation between information sources, as well as the communication of instructions or information from the user to the processor module 115.

[0035] In one embodiment, the graphical user interface 205 provides the user with visual access to various services, including the input of resource information, resource time parameter information, output information and output requirements, and administrative information. In one embodiment of the present invention, the graphical user interface 205 provides a means of identifying the user by way of name and password to restrict access to the system and various visual means to facilitate switching from service to service.

[0036] In some embodiments, the input module 105 and the output module 110 can be one in the same, as the output module 110 may comprise the same graphical user interface as that which forms part of the input module 105.

[0037] The input module 105, using its communications interface 215, can communicate with the processor module 115 over a data communication medium 125. For example, the .. 1.... = L...~...- I = = , ,. = , me,l;,,~~-. 11c t. 4 U1u111 11r3 can UG U1G 1r1LG111Q1 lalJUlLIV ol_ r d. GQTfITIIiI`CT Qr 7lPrcnnal nilmTal ayoioTOni on ti~o I r ----- Y"_,,.,...... ..b....... uo ul%~
input module 105, storage module 120, and processor module 115 and the output module 110 may reside on the same computer, or may be operatively and communicatively coupled. The medium 125 may also include an intranet in which the data communication medium 125 is a closed group of interconnected computers that does not have external access. The medium 125 may also comprise of a world-wide network of interconnected computers, or the Internet. If the medium 125 comprises the Internet, then transmission of information may occur in a secure manner, using known or proprietary communication protocols, as readily known to the person of ordinary skill in the art.

[0038] Input modules 105, can include a personal computer, a handheld computer or other device, a calculator, a personal digital assistant, a terminal, a workstation, or other module as would readily be understood by a worker skilled in the art. Input modules 105 generally consist of a means of inputting information and communicating the same with a processor module 115. The inputting means may include a keyboard, touch pad, writing screen, mouse, scanner, or other peripheral device whose main function is to allow the input of information into a computing system. The communication interface 215 may include network connectivity (such as an Ethernet cable), or other circuitry.

[0039] The input data may include known resource information, resource time parameter information, output information type, report format information, and administrative information.

[0040] The input data, which may often include known resource information, is generally the kind of information that is entered on a more or less routine basis. It may include start and end dates or times, duration of available, desired or used resources, end and start location, time zone identification, calendar type identification, jurisdiction identification, shift-related information, overtime availability, and times in which resources are not available due to custom or convention in a particular jurisdiction (e.g., weekends).

[0041] The resource time parameter information is generally the reference information used to assess the allocation of resources and is entered into storage on a more long-term basis with typically less frequency. It includes information relating to public holidays in paiicuiar jurisdictions, shift patterns, calendar types, and time zone data.
The input module typically permits the user to add, modify or delete the resource time parameter information. This is particularly helpful when customized resource time parameter is required and must be inputted into the storage module for future reference.
The customized resource time parameters may be required when resource allocation must be determined in accordance with custom parameters or heuristics, such as plant- or organization specific shifts.

[0042] Administrative information may be required in order to carry out basic functionalities required in a typical work setting. This may include user and password management, data mining and assessment, and restriction of functionalities.

[0043] Figure 3 shows an exemplary display of the input module. In this exemplary embodiment, the system is capable of receiving the input information relating to the beginning and ending date/time of a time interval, as well as optionally including the jurisdiction and shift information. The system is also configured to make information requests to the storage unit (not shown) in order to determine periods in which the resources are unavailable. By using the input information and the resource time parameters, a service in which a quantity of resource time required for a particular assignment is displayed by the output module. The resulting resource information is shown in the output module in the form of a report in which a single value is returned. In this case, the value is representative of the end date of the desired working interval.

[0044] Figure 4 shows an exemplary display of the input module. In this exemplary embodiment, the system is capable of receiving the input information relating to the beginning date of a project or assignment, as well as a quantity of resource time that is available, the jurisdiction and the nature of shift patterns. The system is also configured to make information requests to the storage unit (not shown) in order to determine periods in which the resources are unavailable. By using the input information and the resource time parameters from the operatively coupled storage unit, a service in which the ending date/time is determined by the processor module, and the result is shown in the output module in the form of a report in which a single value is returned. In this case, the value is representative of the end date of the intPrval:

The Processor Module

[0045] The processor module of the instant invention generally receives the input information (including the optionally provided report-type information), obtains information from the storage module relating to the resource time parameters by performing an information request to the storage module, and determines information relating to resource allocation or use. Steps or instructions necessary for the determination of any number of different report types and resource determination services may be stored in the processor module, including custom report types and resource determination services. Information regarding the layout and input and output data related to new report types may also be received and subsequently stored in the processor module.
The processor module performs the steps as recorded thereon in order to process the input information as received from the input module to determine the necessary information to provide resource information, including resource allocation requirements and usages and/or additional resource information relating to time, to the output module. The processor module can be separate from or be integral with any or all of the other modules. In one embodiment, the processor module is a central processor unit of a computer, but may in other embodiments be any mechanism capable of receiving and processing information and/or data.
The processor module is operatively coupled to the other modules via a data communication medium, which may include circuitry in an embodiment in which all the modules reside in the same unit or a worldwide or local area network of computers and/or servers in which the processor module may be remotely located from all or any of the other modules.

[0046] The processor module 115, of which an embodiment is depicted in Figure 5, comprises a computer or computing platform, or a module implemented therein, comprising of, or configured to have access to one or more processors 315, one or more computer readable media 305 and a communication interface(s) 320 for interfacing with the one or more input modules 105, for example over a local communication bus, a local or remote network, or a public network such as the Internet. The processor module 115 may further comprise an optional graphical user interface and computing input device(s) 335 for the input and management of data directly by a properly authorized user, such as an administrator. It will be appreciated that such data input and management may be implemented locally upon the service module device, or remotely via one or more devices adapted and authorised to implement such managerial and/or administrative actions. For example, data input and/or management could be implemented via one or more of the input modules 105, using an appropriate connection and optionally, via appropriate authentication and authorisation procedures.

[0047] In general, the processor module 115 is used to process resource information in the form of instructions received from the input module 105 via the data communication medium 125 in conjunction with the resource time parameter information obtained from the storage module 120. The processor module 115, in accordance with a set of statements and instructions stored thereon, generally integrates the input information and the resource time parameter information to determine resource information, which is then supplied to the output module 110. Additionally, the one or more processors 315 execute the set of instructions and statements 310 located on the computer readable medium 305 in order to assess data, including input data, resource time parameters, supplementary resource time parameters, and resource information, as well as to locate, search, and transmit information from the data storage component 325 to the output module 110 in the form of a report. The communications interface 320 on the processor module 115 relays this information via the data communication medium 125 to the output module 110, and may comprise communication hardware and/or software components allowing such data communication, as is readily known in the art.

[0048] In one embodiment of the invention, the processor module 115 is located in the same computer as the input 105 and output modules 110. In alternative embodiments, the processor module 115 is in a location that is remote to the one or more input, output and storage modules. While every input, output and storage module has access to the processor module 115 for purposes of determining resource information, only a select group of users will have access to the set of instructions or statements on the processor module 115 that provide for the addition of resource time parameter information, changing administrative data, creating or amending report types and formats, or changing the graphical settings for the display of information sources via the respective graphical user interfaces 205 of input 105 and output module 110.

[0049] In general, the processor module 115 has stored thereon or accessible thereby statements and instructions configured to direct the processor module 115 to accept input data, access resource time parameter information on the storage module 120, and manipulate or assess both the input and resource time parameter information and communicate resource information to an output module 110. The resource information that is communicated to the output module 110 is in accordance with an output or service. The processor module 115 may optionally receive, either with the input data or as a separate communication, a request for a particular output or service and optionally a selection of a report format. Alternatively, the service, output type, or report format may be encoded on the processor module, or set as a default with the necessary administrative information stored thereon or on any of the other input, output or storage modules.

[0050] Certain embodiments of the processor module can perform the following example services, including:

1. Forward projecting date interval calculation Input data: First and second date/time values Resource Information: Quantity of resources provided/required Resource Time Parameter Information: None 2. Forward projecting multiple date interval calculation Input data: Plurality of First and second date/time values Resource Information: Quantity of resources provided/required Resource Time Parameter Information: None 3. Date Intervals using Day(s) of week, Public Holiday(s) Input data: First and second date/time values, worked day(s) of week, jurisdiction (can be default setting or manual selection) Resource Information: No. of days Resource Time Parameter Information: Query of statutory holidays in selected jurisdiction 4. Multiple Date Intervals using Resource Parameters Input data: Plurality of First and second date/time values, worked day(s) of week, jurisdiction (can be default setting or manual selection) Resource Information: No. of days Resource Time Parameter Information: Query of statutory holidays in selected jurisdiction 5. Date Intervals using Start Time and Quantity Input data: First date/time value, quantity of time units Resource Information: End date/time Resource Time Parameter Information: None 6. Date Intervals using Start Date and Time Quantity, and Resource Parameters Input data: First date/time value, quantity of time units, worked day(s) of week, jurisdiction (can be default setting or manual selection) Resource Information: End date/time Resource Time Parameter Information: Query of statutory holidays in selected jurisdiction 7. Division of Time Intervals using Start/End Times and Desired Number oflntervals Input data: First and second date/time values, number of intervals Resource Information: Length of each interval and interval start/end values Resource Time Parameter Information: None 8. Division of Time Intervals using Times, No. oflntervals and Resource Constraints Input data: First and second date/time values, number of intervals, worked day(s) of week, jurisdiction (can be default setting or manual selection) Resource Information: Length of each interval and interval start/end values Resource Time Parameter Information: Query of statutory holidays in selected jurisdiction 9. Forward Projection of Intervals using Start Date and Interval Length Input data: First date/time values, number of multiples, length of interval Resource Information: Interval start/end values Resource Time Parameter Information: None 10. Forward Projection of Intervals using Date, Interval Length and Resource Parameters Input data: First date/time values, number of multiples, length of interval worked day(s) of week, jurisdiction (can be default setting or manual selection) Resource Information: Interval start/end values Resource Time Parameter Information: Query of statutory holidays in selected jurisdiction

[0051] Other resource determination services include the ability for users to take a numerical output figure and then perform mathematical functions thereupon. For example, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, exponential, and square root.
Once the processor module determines a numerical figure as an output, the processor module can perform mathematical functions with it. Such mathematical function may or may not be time-based. For non-time based mathematics, functions such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, exponential, square root, and the use of parenthesis can be adopted.
This functionality may be useful to, for example, calculate the number of person-hours consumed across one or more time intervals by multiplying the quantity of time during the intervals by the number of available resources and/or the cost or pay rate of each resource.
Other circumstances may include dividing a known quantity of time by the quantity of resources available in order to determine how much each resource should be devoted to a particular task or function. Resources can also be determined retroactively using negative quantities.

[0052] In some embodiments, the processor module is capable of converting between time- and resource-based units. For example, changing a given time value from or to seconds, minutes, hours, days, weeks, months, years, etc. Resource-based units, such as person-hours, can also be converted (e.g., to person-days). Custom units may also be created, such as team-hours, wherein a"team" is defined as a pre-selected quantity of persons or other resources. By either storing or accessing unit conversion information in the storage module, or by storing and accessing local information, base unit conversion can also be customized to any workplace parameters. This includes, but is not limited to, amending the number of worked hours within a day, days within a week or month, and weeks in a year. The processor module may also incorporate negative values and decimals or fractions into conversions and calculations.

[0053] In some embodiments, the processor module is capable of designating how many working hours exist within a given day. In certain embodiments, public holidays relating to a chosen jurisdiction, or non-working days in a chosen shift pattern, days calculations may automatically default to 0.0 working hours. For example, in a given determination a user may input a shift pattern such as: Monday to Friday, 7.5 hours per day, Saturday and Sunday, 4.0 hours per day, public holidays based on selected jurisdiction 0.0 hours per day.
The designation of working hours within a given day is established by the processor either by using input information or a resource time parameter obtained by an information request to the storage module.

[0054] Results in the services that are defined as a numerical output can be converted to working hours, minutes and seconds. For example, if a shift pattern is defined by the input module or the storage module as Monday to Friday, 7.5 hours per day, Saturday and Sunday, 4.0 hours per day, and the processor module receives input information that the jurisdiction of interest is Ontario (and hence, upon a resource time parameter request to the storage module determines there are no statutory holidays) and that the interval in question is January 21, 2008 to January 31, 2008, the processor module may determine the following resource information: 9 days at 7.5 hours, 2 days at 4.0 hours, or a total of 75.5 hours.

[0055] Certain embodiments are capable of storing information relating to the available resources during a certain interval, including the number of persons who may be trained or qualified to perform a certain role, or the availability of a pool of people during a particular time period (which may change due to vacation or employment changes). This information may be stored in the storage module 120, and thus available for query by the processor module 115, or input to the processor module 115 via the input module 105. It may then be used by the processor module 115 to, for example, determine a second time/date value given a first date/time value and total amount of time required to completion.
This calculation may or may not incorporate shift pattern information, statutory holidays, or other resource parameters that may constrain resource allocation.

[0056] The system may, in some embodiments, incorporate various international and standardized calendar systems. These include national calendars such as the Chinese, Persian, Kurdish, and Afghan calendars, the Julian calendar, and religious calendars such as Hebrew, Islam, Buddhist, Hindu, Sikh, and Baha'i. All the functionality of calculations may be the same in each calendar as with the default Gregorian calendar. Different time systems may also be incorporated, including 12-hour, 24-hour, Thai 6-hour, Coordinated Universal Time, Mean Solar Time, and Ephemeris time, Terrestrial Dynamical Time, Barycentric Dynamical Time. For example, a date/time value in a particular calendar or time system may be converted into an equivalent in another calendar or time system. As a further example, the processor module may be configured to determine a quantity of time between a first date/time value may be input in a first calendar or time system and a second date/time value entered in a second calendar or time system.

[0057] Also available in some embodiments are conversions from one calendar or time system to another. The system can take a date in one calendar system and output the corresponding date in another calendar. For example, the processor may receive a first time value according to a Gregorian calendar, and determine the equivalent date according to the Chinese calendar.

[0058] The system can also determine date and time values relating to international time zones. This may include conversions from a first to a second or more time zones, or the addition and subtraction of international time zones. Upon a processor module obtaining information related to a first time or date value and a specified and unknown time zone, a corresponding time and date value in the unknown time zone that was searched for. For example, if the input information includes 10AM Feb. 1/08 Pacific Standard Time and the unknown time zone is Atlantic Standard Time, the system may output 2PM Feb.

Atlantic Standard Time. Another function relating to time zones includes the ability to determine a time/date value by adding or subtracting time zones. For instance, system inputs that include a time and date value and a specified time zone, as well as the desired number of added or subtracted time zones, the system can provide a relative value and new time zone. For example, if the input information includes 10 AM Feb. 1/08 Pacific Standard Time, + 4 time zones, the output information can be 2PM Feb. 1/08 Atlantic Standard Time.

[0059] Certain embodiments are capable of selecting specific dates per month are being denoted as unavailable and can thus be included in resource information determination.
Again, this customized resource time parameter information may be stored in the storage module or be input directly via that input module. In this case, the user can select dates per month that are to be exempted. The dates specified in the months covering the time interval can be the same or different for each month.

~,.,.,,., . , . ,. . . .
II_II_Ihll~ In some exPninlary emnnnimentc, resrnirce inrnrmaTinn c.an he lYPiPrmlnP11 a~rnSs a single time interval or a plurality of intervals. For example, the total amount of days between a first and second dates, and between a third and fourth, and between a fifth and sixth, etc., can be detennined in one calculation, including resource parameters for any and/or all of the intervals. When using multiple intervals, the results (and functions performed thereon, including mathematical functions) can be aggregated or kept distinct.
For example, the system may return a total number of hours across a plurality of intervals, a number of hours in each interval in the plurality of intervals, and/or the number of person-hours consumed during the total of all the intervals, or during any or each of the intervals by multiplying the number of hours by the number of persons available at the appropriate time.
[0061] In yet further embodiments, the system may employ resource time parameters to define not only when resources are unavailable, but also when they are available. This "inverse" function may, for example, return the amount of time that was not being worked or the amount of time for which overtime would be required, or the total number of statutory holidays during one or more intervals. Again, mathematical functions are available for any of these results, including, for example, to determine standard and overtime pay/cost rate information on available persons or resources available during the "inverse" time periods using the corresponding information request to obtain the supplementary resource information. Certain of these embodiments may include, for example, an inverse function, available on the input module, to obtain the output required.

The Storage Module [0062] The storage module generally refers to an entity capable of data storage in which data, which may for example constrain the allocation of resources across a time interval, can be stored. The data storage module can be separate from or integrated with the other modules. It may also, in some exemplary embodiments, comprise one or more databases, one or more files, or a combination thereof, or any other type of data storage medium that is capable of storing resource time parameters. The storage module is a reference location for the storage of parameter information necessary for the determination of the resource information by the processor module in conjunction with input data. The resource time parameters are typically related to time data that is relatively constant and/or will be used to determine resource information along with the relatively variable input information and may include but is not limited to data such as public/statutory holidays in one or more jurisdictions, international time zones and relationships therebetween, and information relating to weekends (or other time intervals that are typically not allocated with resources due to social convention or contractual relationships). The resource time parameters can be altered by the user, via the input module, to create customized parameters for any or all functionalities.

[0063] In general, the storage module may be any media capable of long- or short-term storage of information. It may comprise a database server (e.g. MS-SQLTM
Server) or locally stored file-based database system (e.g., MS-ACCESS TM). It may also comprise any form of computer file system, or any other computer-readable media capable of storing information. It may further comprise any other tangible means of recording data or information that is readable by the processor module. The storage module may exist as a separate component from the processor, input, and output modules, and may or may not exist in the same location or physical object as the other modules. Further, it may or may not exist in a module in which its functionality and that of the one or more other modules are combined (i.e., instructions and/or relating to the processor module and the data relating to the storage module exist on the same computer-readable media). The storage module is communicatively linked to the processor module such that the processor module is capable of making information requests for resource time parameter information.

[0064] The storage module stores resource time parameter infonnation that generally relates to constraints or other parameters on resource allocation. This may often include information relating to times, or time intervals, in which resources may or may not be available or during which the use of resources are constrained by additional criteria (e.g., overtime pay rates). In general, the information stored by the storage module tends to be relatively stable or non-changing over time, including, for example, dates of statutory holidays in particular jurisdictions, time zones, and recurring shift patterns, and is often used as a reference to look up included or non-included time intervals that should be accounted for when determining resource information over time.

[0065] In some embodiments, the storage module responds to resource time parameter information requests from other modules. Although, it is possible that the storage module itself may carry out the services that are typically carried out by the processor module, especially when the nature of the service process or information request is carried out more efficiently by the storage module, like for example on server-side applications. Of course, when the storage and processor modules co-exist as a module, this may be the case.

[0066] The resource time parameters may include information relating to statutory or other type of public holidays in any jurisdiction. This means in which the storage module is configured to respond to a request for information from another module, such as the processor module, to determine the number of statutory holidays that are on a certain date, or fall within one or more time intervals, for one or more jurisdictions, for example.
Information requests involving multiple jurisdictions concurrently are required in circumstances when work is being conducted in different places, and therefore, necessary resources to continue a project or workload may not be available for the entire project even when there is a public holiday in only one jurisdiction.

[0067] Jurisdictions for public holidays vary from country to country and even within countries depending on provincial, state, or regional boundaries. From time to time, public holidays within a jurisdiction may also change, like for example the addition of Family Day in Ontario, Canada. Also, in certain jurisdictions, employers may permit employees to choose between public holidays if the employees live near or in a different jurisdiction from where they work. Accordingly, the storage module may include information relating to the optional nature, and it may be configured to add, remove, or amend public holidays.
[0068] Whether and how Daylight Savings Time (DST) is adopted may also vary across jurisdictions, and even within jurisdictions. As the relationship between DST
and jurisdiction is stored in the storage module, information requests in this regard can be used to assess availability of resources at particular times.

[0069] The storage module may in some embodiments be configured to add, modify and delete jurisdictions and related information. This functionality also includes the ability to cc'--""-~-`----~~ - '-r---' - ~--t~-1' ~-- ' i IiGQLG CUSLViil IU11Jl11G11U11J or Usel 1iG1111CU ~IC)tl.)S 1 wilic;fl TTI~V
l=1_r fT1 iV nf)Inr_ asN(c.iaic_ri with geographical areas) that recognize certain public holidays or DST.

[0070] Time periods that are by local convention or regulation unavailable for resource allocation may be stored in the storage module as a resource time parameter.
These time periods may or may not fall on a regular basis. For example, many jurisdictions do not work on certain days of the week (i.e., Saturday and Sunday) due to custom or labour legislation.
This may not be true for all jurisdictions, and the non-worked days may not be common to all jurisdictions. Furthermore, this may also be a contractual or other practical issue relating to an individual employee, consultant, or equipment resource. Accordingly, these dates may be stored and subsequently obtained via an information request to the storage module.

[0071] Periods of availability of resources may be affected by workplace considerations, such as shift times, vacation, plant-shut downs, for example. Accordingly, information relating to such periods can be stored in the storage module such that an information request can determine the working times available during any time interval in which the resources are worked according to a pre-determined shift schedule.

[0072] Resource time parameter information may also relate to specific resources. For example, an individual or group of individuals may: (a) work according to a pre-determined shift schedule; (b) schedule or be forced into taking time off from work; (c) be qualified for certain tasks that occur within a particular time interval; (d) be associated with a certain pay rate; and (e) be available to work during off-times, possibly with a differing pay rate.

Information relating to other types of resources, such as materiel, may also be stored, including but not limited to: (a) service or maintenance down-times; (b) non-availability due to inclusion in other projects; and (c) cost rate for operation during time intervals. As such, one or more information requests can determine, or assist in determining, resource information such as a quantity of time between dates and the cost and ability to dedicate resources during that time.

[0073] Time-zone information relating to jurisdiction may be stored in the storage module and accessible by information requests. Such infonnation would include whether daylight savings time is in effect and the date/time values relating to the start and end dates of when daylight savings time is recognized in particular jurisdictions. Accordingly, any of the services or functions described herein which involve multiple time zones, jurisdictions, or a time interval that covers the start and/or end of a period of time in which daylight savings time is recognized, can account for this change relating to time zones and jurisdiction.

[0074] In some embodiments, flight-based resource information determinations relating to time zone determinations are implemented. Using time zone information and any other jurisdiction related information, the processor can determine input values of the estimated time of travel and the time zone of the destination. Using an information request, the system can return the time and date of arrival in the destination time zone. For example, the system can receive input information relating to travel, such as departure and destination points and duration relating to a flight or series of flights, and automatically determine the change in local time and incorporate same into resource information determination.

[0075] In some embodiments, the storage module is configured to designate how many working hours exist within a given day. In certain embodiments, public holidays relating to a chosen jurisdiction, or non-working days in a chosen shift pattern, days calculations may automatically default to 0.0 working hours. For example, in a given determination a user may input a shift pattern such as: Monday to Friday, 7.5 hours per day, Saturday and Sunday, 4.0 hours per day, public holidays based on selected jurisdiction 0.0 hours per day.
The designation of working hours within a given day is established by the processor either by using input information or a resource time parameter infonnation request.

[0076] Information relating to different calendar and time systems can be contained in the storage module and retrieved by way of information request. While information and services based thereon may occur solely within the process module, some embodiments may store information relating to these various systems within the storage module.
Furthermore, jurisdictional relationships between calendar and time systems may also be stored.

[0077] The storage module may be configured to store information relating to report formats. As this information can be added, amended or deleted, many different types of reports, including user-defined reports, are available to output information.

The Output Module [0078] The output module is generally a means for presenting the resource information to the user. The resource information may be presented in the form of a report or as discreet data or datum. The output module is capable of presenting the information in a medium capable of being understood by the user, such as, for example, a display screen or printed material. The output module can be separate from or integral with any or all of the other modules. There may also be multiple output modules for a given system or apparatus.
[0079] The output module may be any media capable of transmitting or communicating the resource information to the user. This may include a computer peripheral such as a-printer or computer/computing-device screen. The output module may also include a device capable of transmitting the information as electronic information, such as a modem.
[0080] The information that is output may be in the form of unformatted or raw information, such as a single number. The output module may also use reports, or be formatted information to convey information.

[0081] In certain embodiments, a plurality of data elements (i.e. length of time interval, start and end date of each interval) data can be viewed at the same time or on separate pages. Furthermore, due to the interactive nature of the system, the output module 110 and input module 105 may be one and the same allowing for viewing and entering data by a user at the same time, with subsequent calculations occurring thereafter in a near-instantaneous fashion. When data are displayed, the user can cycle through each output figure and amend or add information thereto, with the output information being re-calculated accordingly. , [0082] According to embodiments of the present invention a method of determining resource requirements comprises the steps of providing input data indicative of resource requirements and one or more time intervals; obtaining predetermined resource time parameters from a storage module; determining resource information data based on said resource requirements and one or more time intervals, and said resource time parameters;
and outputting the resource information data.

[0083] The step of providing the input data that is indicative of resource requirements and one or more time intervals refers to providing the system with initial information needed for the system to determine the type of resource information and report of same that is being requested. It may include such information as length, beginning or end of one or more time intervals, the type and/or restrictions of resource requirements (e.g., equipment type or skill set), location/jurisdiction of resources, or availability pattern of a resource (e.g., shift type). It may also include report type and format requirements, as well as what types of resource information, if any, should be calculated further (such as potential cost depending on a cost rate of a particular resource). The step of providing input data may include providing information relating to how resource time parameter information is required, if at all. For example, the user may wish to only request that certain types of resource time parameters be applied to certain time intervals and certain resources.
Alternatively, the user may not wish to apply any resource time parameters to any time intervals or resources. In addition, input information may also include whether or not supplemental resource information is required, such as cost-rates or pay-rates that relate to specific resources or classes of resources.

[0084] In some embodiments, if necessary, any or all of the predetermined resource time parameters, report type information, or supplemental resource information is requested from the storage module and transmitted to the processor module according to either default process or input information as provided by the previous step.

[0085] The method further comprises a step of determining of the resource information.
The type of resource information that should be determined may be determined from the input information or information obtained from the storage module. Using the input information and, if necessary, the resource time parameter information, resource information may be determined. Supplemental resource information may also be determined at this step. The method may also comprise, as a separate step or part of one or more of the other steps, an assessment of whether further information is required in order to determine and present the desired resource information. If further information is required, identification of the further information can be transmitted to the output module where this further infonnation mav optionallv be inputted via the input moc_lule, Tn addition, erroneous or functionally incomplete requests will also generate a request for further information or clarification of previously submitted information.

[0086] In some embodiments, this further information may define an output step, which can be representative of the configuration of the way the resource information is outputted.
For example, the resource information may be presented in the form of a default, pre-selected, or selected report-type. It may also take the form of discreet numbers or values.
The resource information may be outputted onto a physical communication medium, or be transferred as data to a storage medium.

[0087] The invention will now be described with reference to a specific example. It will be understood that the following example is intended to describe embodiments of the invention and are not intended to limit the invention in any way EXAMPLE
[0100] Figure 6 provides an additional embodiment of the present inventiori, wherein the device is comprised of a handheld device 400, such as a PDA. Figure 7 provides an exemplary embodiment of the method of the present invention, wherein each step of the method is outlined thereby and is carried out by the device of Figure 6.

[0101] In this embodiment, all modules are contained within a single handheld device 400.
The input module 405, output modules 410, 415 processor module (not shown) and storage module (not shown) are all contained within or on the device. In this particular embodiment, the handheld device is configured to be communicatively linked by way of an additional computing interface device 420 to any or all of an external module, computer or network, such that additional input, output and storage modules may be communicatively linked to the device. Furthermore, the device contains multiple output modules, including both a printer 410 for outputting a hardcopy of a report 425 and a display screen 415 for outputting the results of resource information services.

[0102] The method of the instant invention, as carried out by the device of Figure 6 and outlined in the flowchart of Figure 7, comprises the step of providing of input information, i 0 and other data, necessary for determining the desired resource information. The input module of Figure 6, namely the keyboard 405, is the means by which the input information is provided. A display screen 415 can be part of the input module in this embodiment by prompting the user to make certain pre-determined selections and by providing a means for the user to verify that information is being correctly input.

[0103] The steps of determining whether further information is required, sending a parameter time resource request, and determining the resource information data are carried out in this embodiment by the processor module. In the instant example, the processor module is a data storage medium that is not visible, namely a hard disk contained within the device. The hard disk is operatively connected to the keyboard, display screen, memory storage medium, and printer. The hard disk has written thereupon instructions for determining whether further information, which is typically obtainable from the memory storage medium, is required. If further information is required, such as resource time parameter information or supplemental resource information relating to cost, usage, or benefits, the processor module determines if this information is available on the memory storage medium. If not, an information request is sent to the display screen notifying the user that further information is required, and in some embodiments, prompting the user to input the required further information. If the memory storage medium, which in this embodiment is contained on the same unit as the processor module (i.e., the hard drive), is supplied with all necessary information, the processor module sends a request to the storage module to obtain the required information stored thereon.

[0104] Once all the information required is obtained, the step of determining the required resource information is carried out on the hard disk in accordance with the set of instructions, also recorded thereon. The hard drive then transmits sends the resource information, along with information relating to the report type, to the output module.

[0105] The step of outputting the resource information is carried out by the output module, which in this exemplary embodiment comprises a display screen 415, a printer 410 and a LAN or WAN cable 420 capable of sending the resource information and corresponding report in electronic format to a remotely located display screen, printer, or storage medium.
Also not visible, is a further output means in the form of a wireless transmitter.

[0106] The foregoing embodiments of the invention are examples and can be varied in many ways. Such present or future variations are not to be regarded as a departure from the spirit and scope of the invention, and all such modifications as would be apparent to one skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the following claims.

Claims (2)

THE EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION FOR WHICH AN EXCLUSIVE
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS:

1. A resource information evaluation apparatus comprising:

an input module configured to receive input data indicative of one or more resource requirements and one or more time intervals;
a storage module configured to store information indicative of resource time parameters;
a processing module operatively coupled to the input module and the storage module, the processing module configured to receive the input data and extract desired resource time parameters from the storage module, said processing module configured to determine resource information data based on the input data and the resource time parameters; and an output module operatively coupled to the processing module and configured to output the resource information data.

2. A method of determining resource requirements comprising:
providing input data indicative of resource requirements and one or more time intervals;
obtaining predetermined resource time parameters from a storage module;
determining resource information data based on said resource requirements and one or more time intervals, and said resource time parameters; and outputting the resource information data.