CA2831123A1 - Method and system for managing the shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components - Google Patents
Method and system for managing the shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components Download PDFInfo
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- CA2831123A1 CA2831123A1 CA2831123A CA2831123A CA2831123A1 CA 2831123 A1 CA2831123 A1 CA 2831123A1 CA 2831123 A CA2831123 A CA 2831123A CA 2831123 A CA2831123 A CA 2831123A CA 2831123 A1 CA2831123 A1 CA 2831123A1
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
- G06Q10/08—Logistics, e.g. warehousing, loading or distribution; Inventory or stock management
- G06Q10/083—Shipping
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
- G06Q10/06—Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling
- G06Q10/063—Operations research, analysis or management
- G06Q10/0631—Resource planning, allocation, distributing or scheduling for enterprises or organisations
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- G—PHYSICS
- G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
- G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- G06Q50/00—Systems or methods specially adapted for specific business sectors, e.g. utilities or tourism
- G06Q50/08—Construction
Abstract
A method and system by which the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components can be automatically transmitted to and received by a remote computing device at a construction site.
Description
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- I. -Title: METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MANAGING THE SHIPPING, DELIVERY AND RECEIPT OF PREFABRICATED CONSTRUCTION
COMPONENTS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to the field of managing the transportation of objects and more particularly to managing the transportation of prefabricated construction components. Most particularly, this invention relates to a method and system of managing the shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Prefabricated construction components are often used during large-scale construction projects. These may, for example, be large precast elements that are made at a remote factory and then shipped to the construction site. Prefabrication of concrete components can take time, for example for the concrete to be adequately cured. Large scale infrastructure projects often require large numbers of bulky prefabricated components. These components are required on site in a specific order and timing to keep the project running smoothly, efficiently and in sequence. For example, in the installation of an underground sewer pipeline, a specific number of pipe segments, connection pieces and manhole segments will be required for the entire project and those components will need to be installed in a specific sequence as the pipeline is built. Therefore, it is crucial to have the required components on hand in sufficient quantities to allow the construction to proceed unimpeded. If construction is proceeding at a certain rate, it can be estimated when further prefabricated components will be required for the project. However, typically constructions projects can run into unexpected changes to their schedule due to delays and unforeseen events.
roommir
- I. -Title: METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MANAGING THE SHIPPING, DELIVERY AND RECEIPT OF PREFABRICATED CONSTRUCTION
COMPONENTS
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This invention relates generally to the field of managing the transportation of objects and more particularly to managing the transportation of prefabricated construction components. Most particularly, this invention relates to a method and system of managing the shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Prefabricated construction components are often used during large-scale construction projects. These may, for example, be large precast elements that are made at a remote factory and then shipped to the construction site. Prefabrication of concrete components can take time, for example for the concrete to be adequately cured. Large scale infrastructure projects often require large numbers of bulky prefabricated components. These components are required on site in a specific order and timing to keep the project running smoothly, efficiently and in sequence. For example, in the installation of an underground sewer pipeline, a specific number of pipe segments, connection pieces and manhole segments will be required for the entire project and those components will need to be installed in a specific sequence as the pipeline is built. Therefore, it is crucial to have the required components on hand in sufficient quantities to allow the construction to proceed unimpeded. If construction is proceeding at a certain rate, it can be estimated when further prefabricated components will be required for the project. However, typically constructions projects can run into unexpected changes to their schedule due to delays and unforeseen events.
roommir
-2-In some cases changes to the anticipated schedule is accomplished by piling up an inventory of prefabricated components in a staging area at the location of the project. However, in urban infrastructure projects there often is no room for such a staging area.
Further, the retaining on site of inventory is expensive and a-just-in-time form of parts delivery is cheaper and more space efficient and thus more preferred.
Therefore, it is important for the delivery of prefabricated construction components to be co-ordinated by a site supervisor so that each component is available to be installed in the correct order. Among other things this makes it desirable for the site supervisor to be able to confirm that the components being shipped and delivered are the components that were ordered. If the wrong item is delivered at the work site or, to the wrong worksite, if there is an unexpected delay in delivering a component, the entire project may be delayed, which can have significant cost consequences, in terms of idled workers, delays to other portions of the project and the like. In conventional systems for delivering construction components, a site supervisor may not be able to confirm that he or she is going to be delivered the correct components until after they arrive at the site and the packing list is checked against the goods received.
Current tracking of construction components require operators to call distributors and manufacturers directly to check on the fabrication schedule, to place orders for the release of prefabricated inventory and to obtain any updates about the location and status of the ordered items.
Although this allows site supervisors to obtain current information about the components, it is time wasting for both the supervisor and the personnel at the distribution site who is required to take the call and recite information that is recorded on their systems. Also, site supervisors may be in charge of a large number of projects which each may require a variety of different components. However, conventional systems generally
Further, the retaining on site of inventory is expensive and a-just-in-time form of parts delivery is cheaper and more space efficient and thus more preferred.
Therefore, it is important for the delivery of prefabricated construction components to be co-ordinated by a site supervisor so that each component is available to be installed in the correct order. Among other things this makes it desirable for the site supervisor to be able to confirm that the components being shipped and delivered are the components that were ordered. If the wrong item is delivered at the work site or, to the wrong worksite, if there is an unexpected delay in delivering a component, the entire project may be delayed, which can have significant cost consequences, in terms of idled workers, delays to other portions of the project and the like. In conventional systems for delivering construction components, a site supervisor may not be able to confirm that he or she is going to be delivered the correct components until after they arrive at the site and the packing list is checked against the goods received.
Current tracking of construction components require operators to call distributors and manufacturers directly to check on the fabrication schedule, to place orders for the release of prefabricated inventory and to obtain any updates about the location and status of the ordered items.
Although this allows site supervisors to obtain current information about the components, it is time wasting for both the supervisor and the personnel at the distribution site who is required to take the call and recite information that is recorded on their systems. Also, site supervisors may be in charge of a large number of projects which each may require a variety of different components. However, conventional systems generally
-3-do not provide any mechanism for obtaining information stored by the distribution centre regarding current inventory and the status of equipment which has been ordered without contacting someone at the distribution facility.
What is desired is a way to streamline the process by which information regarding the fabrication, shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components is managed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is therefore directed to a method and system of managing the shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components. In particular, the present invention provides a method and system by which the status of one or more of the manufacture, shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components can be automatically transmitted to and received by a remote computing device at a construction site. The present invention provides for site supervisors to have remote, most preferably through a hand held smart phone or the like, access to information regarding the components ordered for multiple different projects without requiring those supervisors to maintain an independent records system. Further it is desirable to have a record of a release order being given by a site supervisor to a component supplier, and then accepted by the component supplier and then the order confirmed by the site supervisor to ensure that the order that was given was the same as the order that is being filled.
According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of managing the shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components for a construction project. The making of the prefabricated construction components is recorded in a database and the shipping readiness of the components are tracked over time. An order for ,
What is desired is a way to streamline the process by which information regarding the fabrication, shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components is managed.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is therefore directed to a method and system of managing the shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components. In particular, the present invention provides a method and system by which the status of one or more of the manufacture, shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components can be automatically transmitted to and received by a remote computing device at a construction site. The present invention provides for site supervisors to have remote, most preferably through a hand held smart phone or the like, access to information regarding the components ordered for multiple different projects without requiring those supervisors to maintain an independent records system. Further it is desirable to have a record of a release order being given by a site supervisor to a component supplier, and then accepted by the component supplier and then the order confirmed by the site supervisor to ensure that the order that was given was the same as the order that is being filled.
According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of managing the shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components for a construction project. The making of the prefabricated construction components is recorded in a database and the shipping readiness of the components are tracked over time. An order for ,
-4-delivery of one or more of the prefabricated construction components is received and recorded, the order is processed and the one or more ordered components are prepared for shipping. A status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the one or more ordered components is recorded in the database. The status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the one or more ordered components is automatically transmitted to a remote computing device.
According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a system for managing the shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components for a construction project. A
database records information on a status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components. A remote computing device is in communication with the database. An interface allows for the modification of the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components in the database. A control system allows for the management of the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components in the database. The control system is configured to automatically transmit the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components to the remote computing device after the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components is modified by the interface.
According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of tracking the transportation of construction equipment to a construction site. A site supervisor on a construction project is permitted to request information on the shipping readiness of prefabricated construction components at a distribution centre related to the construction project using a remote computing device. Information on the fabrication of prefabrication construction components at the distribution centre is received at the remote computing device. An order for at least one of the prefabrication construction "Or
According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a system for managing the shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components for a construction project. A
database records information on a status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components. A remote computing device is in communication with the database. An interface allows for the modification of the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components in the database. A control system allows for the management of the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components in the database. The control system is configured to automatically transmit the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components to the remote computing device after the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components is modified by the interface.
According to another preferred embodiment of the present invention there is provided a method of tracking the transportation of construction equipment to a construction site. A site supervisor on a construction project is permitted to request information on the shipping readiness of prefabricated construction components at a distribution centre related to the construction project using a remote computing device. Information on the fabrication of prefabrication construction components at the distribution centre is received at the remote computing device. An order for at least one of the prefabrication construction "Or
-5-components is transmitted from the construction site. A status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered prefabricated components is automatically received at the remote computing device after the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered prefabricated component changes.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Reference will now be made by way of example only to preferred embodiments of the invention by reference to the following drawing in which:
Figure 1 shows a system for managing the shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components;
Figure 2 shows a flow diagram of a method of managing the shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components for a construction project; and Figure 3 shows a flow diagram of a method of tracking the transportation of construction equipment to a construction site.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Figure 1 shows a system 10 for managing the manufacture, shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components 24 for a construction project at a construction site 20. In the following description the term "site supervisor" is used and generally this term is intended to cover the person in charge of the construction schedule at a project.
While typically the site supervisor will be on site, the term site supervisor as used herein describes anyone who is involved in the timing and delivery of prefabricated components to a project.
The system also comprehends being able to pre-order the production of long lead time components by the customer on the =
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Reference will now be made by way of example only to preferred embodiments of the invention by reference to the following drawing in which:
Figure 1 shows a system for managing the shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components;
Figure 2 shows a flow diagram of a method of managing the shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components for a construction project; and Figure 3 shows a flow diagram of a method of tracking the transportation of construction equipment to a construction site.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
Figure 1 shows a system 10 for managing the manufacture, shipping from a distribution centre and the delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components 24 for a construction project at a construction site 20. In the following description the term "site supervisor" is used and generally this term is intended to cover the person in charge of the construction schedule at a project.
While typically the site supervisor will be on site, the term site supervisor as used herein describes anyone who is involved in the timing and delivery of prefabricated components to a project.
The system also comprehends being able to pre-order the production of long lead time components by the customer on the =
-6-construction site. The prefabricated construction components 24, once fabricated, are initially stored at a distribution centre 18, for example, in a warehouse 22. The storage location will typically be at a remote site, close to the fabrication plant where the fabrication takes place and where there are no undue constraints on the availability of land. The term "fabrication plant" is used to describe any facility which has the capacity to construct prefabricated construction components. The distribution centre may include the fabrication plant or the fabrication plant may be at a separate location. In one embodiment, the system includes a database 12 for recording information regarding a status of one or more of the fabrication, shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components 24. The database preferably stores details about the order status of the item including that it was ordered, by whom and when, that it was released, shipped, delivered or delivered and invoiced. The status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components 24 may also preferably include the location of the item, for example, by providing the location of a delivery truck 26 if the prefabricated component is being shipped by truck.
Other examples of status information which may be stored in the database 12 include the expected delivery date and time, a packing list confirming the components included in a specific shipment, information regarding the personnel who received or placed with the order, whether the components have left the distribution centre 18 and when, the location of the one or more ordered components when in transit, for example, by GPS tracking updates, and confirmation that the one or more ordered components were delivered and invoiced. Depending on the needs of the individual site supervisors and the type of information stored in the database 12, a smaller subset of information may be displayed to different site supervisors and status information may also include other types of information which may be useful for the site supervisor. The status of the prefabricated construction components may include any type of =
Other examples of status information which may be stored in the database 12 include the expected delivery date and time, a packing list confirming the components included in a specific shipment, information regarding the personnel who received or placed with the order, whether the components have left the distribution centre 18 and when, the location of the one or more ordered components when in transit, for example, by GPS tracking updates, and confirmation that the one or more ordered components were delivered and invoiced. Depending on the needs of the individual site supervisors and the type of information stored in the database 12, a smaller subset of information may be displayed to different site supervisors and status information may also include other types of information which may be useful for the site supervisor. The status of the prefabricated construction components may include any type of =
-7-information relating to the components which could be useful to the site supervisor. For example, the data base could include a running tally of components shipped by project so as to provide a running tally of the percent complete the supply and delivery is in respect of any specific project.
A remote computing device 14 located at the construction site 20 allows for communication between the construction site 20 and the database 12. An interface 30 connected to the database 12 allows for the modification of the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components in the database 12. The interface 30 and database 12 are connected to a control system 16. The interface 30 may be, for example, a computer which allows personnel at the distribution centre to input information regarding the prefabricated construction components 24. For example, if a site supervisor calls the distribution centre personnel to order a new item, the distribution centre personnel can input the order into the database 12 using the interface 30. The interface 30 may also include various other systems, so long as it provides a means to update information in the database. For example, the interface 30 may also be an automated device, such as a bar-code scanner which can track the movement of prefabricated components at the distribution centre 18. Furthermore, the interface 30 could include a GPS device 28 located on a delivery truck 26 which communicates with the control system 16 to allow the control system 16 to update the database 12 with information about the current location of the prefabricated construction components 24 which are loaded on the delivery truck 26. The interface 30 could also include the remote computing device14 or other computing device which can communicate with the control system 16.
The control system 16 provides for the management of the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components 24 in the database 12. The control system 16 is configured to automatically
A remote computing device 14 located at the construction site 20 allows for communication between the construction site 20 and the database 12. An interface 30 connected to the database 12 allows for the modification of the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components in the database 12. The interface 30 and database 12 are connected to a control system 16. The interface 30 may be, for example, a computer which allows personnel at the distribution centre to input information regarding the prefabricated construction components 24. For example, if a site supervisor calls the distribution centre personnel to order a new item, the distribution centre personnel can input the order into the database 12 using the interface 30. The interface 30 may also include various other systems, so long as it provides a means to update information in the database. For example, the interface 30 may also be an automated device, such as a bar-code scanner which can track the movement of prefabricated components at the distribution centre 18. Furthermore, the interface 30 could include a GPS device 28 located on a delivery truck 26 which communicates with the control system 16 to allow the control system 16 to update the database 12 with information about the current location of the prefabricated construction components 24 which are loaded on the delivery truck 26. The interface 30 could also include the remote computing device14 or other computing device which can communicate with the control system 16.
The control system 16 provides for the management of the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components 24 in the database 12. The control system 16 is configured to automatically
-8-transmit the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components to, among other places, the remote computing device 14 after the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components is modified by the interface. The status may also be simultaneously transmitted to a central project management office if so desired.
The prefabricated components 24 may be loaded from the warehouse 22 into a delivery system, such as, for example, delivery truck 26. It will be understood that other modes of transportation may also be used to deliver the one or more ordered components. Preferably, the delivery truck 26 is equipped with a GPS device 28 which is in communication with the control system 16. The control system 16 will be informed about the location of the delivery truck 26 and will be able to predict at which time the delivery at the construction site 20 is expected.
This status information regarding the predicted time of delivery may be automatically transmitted by the control system 16 to the remote device 14. Once loaded, the delivery truck 26 will travel to the construction site 20, where it will be unloaded and receipt of the one or more ordered components will be confirmed, upon a visual comparison of the packing slip and the shipped components being performed at the delivery location.
In one embodiment, the electronic acceptance by the site of the shipped goods could also generate an electronic invoice in accordance with the packing slip.
It will be understood that although Fig. 1 shows the control system 16, the database 12 and the interface 30 all connected by wired components, those connections may also be made by other means, such as wireless connections so long as the system components are capable of communicating with one another. Furthermore, although each of the control system 16 and the database 12 are shown as physical objects at the distribution site, those items may be located at different locations and may also be virtual, rather than physical in nature. For example, the '
The prefabricated components 24 may be loaded from the warehouse 22 into a delivery system, such as, for example, delivery truck 26. It will be understood that other modes of transportation may also be used to deliver the one or more ordered components. Preferably, the delivery truck 26 is equipped with a GPS device 28 which is in communication with the control system 16. The control system 16 will be informed about the location of the delivery truck 26 and will be able to predict at which time the delivery at the construction site 20 is expected.
This status information regarding the predicted time of delivery may be automatically transmitted by the control system 16 to the remote device 14. Once loaded, the delivery truck 26 will travel to the construction site 20, where it will be unloaded and receipt of the one or more ordered components will be confirmed, upon a visual comparison of the packing slip and the shipped components being performed at the delivery location.
In one embodiment, the electronic acceptance by the site of the shipped goods could also generate an electronic invoice in accordance with the packing slip.
It will be understood that although Fig. 1 shows the control system 16, the database 12 and the interface 30 all connected by wired components, those connections may also be made by other means, such as wireless connections so long as the system components are capable of communicating with one another. Furthermore, although each of the control system 16 and the database 12 are shown as physical objects at the distribution site, those items may be located at different locations and may also be virtual, rather than physical in nature. For example, the '
-9-database 12 may be stored virtually on a 'cloud', meaning that the information is stored through the cooperative interaction of multiple different computers in various locations at the same time without being located at a specific physical location. What is important is that information can be stored in the database 12 and that the information can be accessed and transmitted as desired by the control system 16. The control system 16 and the remote computing device 14 may be connected by a variety of different communication channels, including through the internet, satellite or radio or other means. Furthermore, although the control system 16 is described as controlling the database and transmitting information to the remote computing device 14, those functions may be provided by separate physical objects. For example, a separate transmitter may be connected to a processor, which when acting together provide the same function as the control system 16. However, regardless of whether the components are provided separately or virtually, what is important is that the control system monitors the status of data within the database, harvests new data as it is generated and stored and pushes the data out to the desired recipients as set out above.
As shown in Fig. 2, there is a method 32 of managing the shipping from the distribution centre 18 (Fig. 1) and the delivery and receipt at a construction site 20 (Fig. 1) of prefabricated construction components 24 (Fig. 1) for a construction project. At 34, the making of the prefabricated construction components 24 (Fig. 1) is recorded in a database 12 (Fig. 1) and the shipping readiness of the components are tracked over time. The method 32 may record various properties of the prefabricated components in the database such as that the prefabricated construction components are in stock at the distribution centre 18 (Fig. 1).
At 36, an order for delivery of one or more of the prefabricated construction components 24 (Fig. 1) is received and recorded in the database 12 (Fig.1), the order is processed and the one or more ordered components are prepared for shipping. At 38, a status of the shipping, ,
As shown in Fig. 2, there is a method 32 of managing the shipping from the distribution centre 18 (Fig. 1) and the delivery and receipt at a construction site 20 (Fig. 1) of prefabricated construction components 24 (Fig. 1) for a construction project. At 34, the making of the prefabricated construction components 24 (Fig. 1) is recorded in a database 12 (Fig. 1) and the shipping readiness of the components are tracked over time. The method 32 may record various properties of the prefabricated components in the database such as that the prefabricated construction components are in stock at the distribution centre 18 (Fig. 1).
At 36, an order for delivery of one or more of the prefabricated construction components 24 (Fig. 1) is received and recorded in the database 12 (Fig.1), the order is processed and the one or more ordered components are prepared for shipping. At 38, a status of the shipping, ,
-10-delivery and receipt of the one or more ordered components is recorded in the database 12 (Fig. 1). At 40, the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the one or more ordered components is automatically transmitted to the remote computing device 14 (Fig. 1). The information relating to the shipping readiness of the prefabricated construction components may be recorded in the database 12 (Fig. 1) either before or after the order for delivery of one of the prefabricated construction components is received and recorded in the database.
As shown in Fig. 3 there is a method 46 of tracking the transportation of construction equipment to a construction site 20 (Fig. 1).
A site supervisor at a construction project is permitted at 48 to use the remote computing device to request information on the shipping readiness of prefabricated construction components at the distribution centre 18 (Fig. 1) related to the construction project. Access to the system will be protected by appropriate passwords or the like which will also tie the remote user in to the specific project applicable to the remote user. In this way the system can manage multiple projects at multiple sites for multiple customers simultaneously. At 50, information on the fabrication of prefabrication construction components 24 (Fig. 1) at the distribution centre 18 (Fig. 1) is received at the remote computing device 14 (Fig. 1).
At 52, an order for at least one of the prefabrication construction components is transmitted from the construction site 20 (Fig. 1). At 54, a status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered prefabricated components is automatically received at the remote computing device after the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered prefabricated component changes.
One preferred embodiment of the system is described in more detail herein. A site supervisor at the construction site 20 will use a remote computing device 14 in the form of a smart phone to communicate with the control system 16. The site supervisor will install or have installed on the remote computing device 14 software which =
As shown in Fig. 3 there is a method 46 of tracking the transportation of construction equipment to a construction site 20 (Fig. 1).
A site supervisor at a construction project is permitted at 48 to use the remote computing device to request information on the shipping readiness of prefabricated construction components at the distribution centre 18 (Fig. 1) related to the construction project. Access to the system will be protected by appropriate passwords or the like which will also tie the remote user in to the specific project applicable to the remote user. In this way the system can manage multiple projects at multiple sites for multiple customers simultaneously. At 50, information on the fabrication of prefabrication construction components 24 (Fig. 1) at the distribution centre 18 (Fig. 1) is received at the remote computing device 14 (Fig. 1).
At 52, an order for at least one of the prefabrication construction components is transmitted from the construction site 20 (Fig. 1). At 54, a status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered prefabricated components is automatically received at the remote computing device after the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered prefabricated component changes.
One preferred embodiment of the system is described in more detail herein. A site supervisor at the construction site 20 will use a remote computing device 14 in the form of a smart phone to communicate with the control system 16. The site supervisor will install or have installed on the remote computing device 14 software which =
-11-communicates with the control system 16. The software may be in the form of a software application, often referred to as an 'App'. Once the site supervisor activates the App, he or she will enter login information in order to identify himself or herself to the system and to prevent unauthorized access. After the site supervisor's credentials have been accepted by the system, information regarding the products of the distributor, such as a product catalogue, and specific project information will be accessible.
Once a registered user logs in, each of the projects he or she is responsible for will be displayed on the smart phone. Each project will be associated with a project name which allows the registered user to easily identify each project. Alerts regarding the shipping, delivery and receipt status of prefabricated construction components associated with each project may be selected and displayed by the registered user. The latest information regarding the status of the prefabricated construction components will be displayed to the user. For example, the system may display an alert that a certain product has been released for delivery and that it has an expected delivery date of a certain date. Additional information, including the personnel at the distribution centre who received an order may also be displayed. As additional information regarding the status of the prefabricated construction equipment is transmitted to the remote computing device 14, including whether the prefabricated construction components have been shipped, that information will be displayed on the App in the form of an alert. The status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated construction components can include various piece of information, including whether the components have been released for shipping, whether the delivery truck has left the yard, information regarding the current location of the delivery truck, the expected arrival time and date for the prefabricated construction components, confirmation that the components were delivered and confirmation that the components were both delivered and that an invoice was issued. The status of the shipping,
Once a registered user logs in, each of the projects he or she is responsible for will be displayed on the smart phone. Each project will be associated with a project name which allows the registered user to easily identify each project. Alerts regarding the shipping, delivery and receipt status of prefabricated construction components associated with each project may be selected and displayed by the registered user. The latest information regarding the status of the prefabricated construction components will be displayed to the user. For example, the system may display an alert that a certain product has been released for delivery and that it has an expected delivery date of a certain date. Additional information, including the personnel at the distribution centre who received an order may also be displayed. As additional information regarding the status of the prefabricated construction equipment is transmitted to the remote computing device 14, including whether the prefabricated construction components have been shipped, that information will be displayed on the App in the form of an alert. The status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated construction components can include various piece of information, including whether the components have been released for shipping, whether the delivery truck has left the yard, information regarding the current location of the delivery truck, the expected arrival time and date for the prefabricated construction components, confirmation that the components were delivered and confirmation that the components were both delivered and that an invoice was issued. The status of the shipping,
-12-delivery and receipt of the prefabricated construction components may also include information such as the packing slip which may be sent to the registered user. The status may also include information regarding whether the invoice was ultimately paid. Additional information regarding the status of the prefabricated construction components may also be stored in the database and transmitted to the registered user, including the quantity of each item being shipped, the physical properties of the item, including its size and mass or its product number and other useful information. This allows the registered user to confirm whether the correct prefabricated construction components are being shipped before the components leave the yard. Changes in the status of the prefabricated construction components will cause the control system to send an alert to the smart phone 14. The control system 16 will respond to the creation of a new modified status or new entry on the database 12. Once a new entry has been created, it will be pushed or transmitted automatically to the App on the smart phone 14. The information which was automatically transmitted to the smart phone 14 may not be visibly displayed to the user until the registered user logs into the system, which may be at a later time. The user may be informed of the updated information by the creation of an alert associated with the one or more ordered components.
The registered user may also be able to operate the smart phone 14 to update the system by confirming electronically that the one or more ordered components have arrived. In this manner, the smart phone acts as an interface 30. The confirmation of the receipt of the order will be communicated to the control system 16 which will then update the database 12. In another embodiment, the driver of the delivery vehicle 26 may have a device, such as an additional remote computing device (not shown), which will communicate with the control system 16 to confirm delivery. It is also possible for the GPS device 28 to confirm delivery by establishing that the delivery truck containing the prefabricated construction components has arrived at the delivery location. Although
The registered user may also be able to operate the smart phone 14 to update the system by confirming electronically that the one or more ordered components have arrived. In this manner, the smart phone acts as an interface 30. The confirmation of the receipt of the order will be communicated to the control system 16 which will then update the database 12. In another embodiment, the driver of the delivery vehicle 26 may have a device, such as an additional remote computing device (not shown), which will communicate with the control system 16 to confirm delivery. It is also possible for the GPS device 28 to confirm delivery by establishing that the delivery truck containing the prefabricated construction components has arrived at the delivery location. Although
-13-not preferred, the database 12 may also be updated manually by personnel entering confirmation of delivery when the truck driver returns with paperwork confirming that the order was successfully delivered.
The control system 16 and database 12 may integrated with or used in conjunction with other different systems operated at the distribution centre 18. For example, information from a related accounting system may be used to populate data in the database by providing details of orders of prefabricated construction components. In another embodiment, the accounting software may be integrated with the management system 10. An invoice for an order may be generated automatically and sent to the registered user once receipt of the order is confirmed. The invoice may be generated electronically and sent through various means, including through email or through the App itself, or may be sent manually through regular mail.
While the foregoing description refers to preferred embodiments of the present invention it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and alterations are possible to the invention without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the broad claims appended to this specification. Some of these alterations and modifications have been discussed above and other will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
The control system 16 and database 12 may integrated with or used in conjunction with other different systems operated at the distribution centre 18. For example, information from a related accounting system may be used to populate data in the database by providing details of orders of prefabricated construction components. In another embodiment, the accounting software may be integrated with the management system 10. An invoice for an order may be generated automatically and sent to the registered user once receipt of the order is confirmed. The invoice may be generated electronically and sent through various means, including through email or through the App itself, or may be sent manually through regular mail.
While the foregoing description refers to preferred embodiments of the present invention it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications and alterations are possible to the invention without departing from the scope of the invention as defined by the broad claims appended to this specification. Some of these alterations and modifications have been discussed above and other will be apparent to those skilled in the art.
Claims (8)
PROPERTY OR PRIVILEGE IS CLAIMED ARE DEFINED AS
FOLLOWS:
1. A method of managing the shipping from a distribution centre, delivery and receipt at a construction site of prefabricated construction components, the method comprising:
recording in a database the making of the prefabricated construction components and tracking the shipping readiness of the components over time;
receiving and recording an order for delivery of one or more of the prefabricated construction components, processing the order and preparing the one or more ordered components for shipping;
recording in the database a status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the one or more ordered components; and automatically transmitting to a remote computing device the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the one or more ordered components.
recording in a database the making of the prefabricated construction components and tracking the shipping readiness of the components over time;
receiving and recording an order for delivery of one or more of the prefabricated construction components, processing the order and preparing the one or more ordered components for shipping;
recording in the database a status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the one or more ordered components; and automatically transmitting to a remote computing device the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the one or more ordered components.
2. The method of claim 1 further comprising automatically transmitting the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the ordered component after each change in status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the one or more ordered components.
3. The method of claim 1 wherein receiving and recording an order for delivery further comprises an operator receiving an order for delivery by phone and inputting the order for delivery using an interface.
4. A system for managing the shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components for a construction project, the system comprising:
a database for recording information on a status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components;
a remote computing device in communication with the database;
an interface for modifying the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components in the database; and a control system for managing the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components in the database, the control system being configured to automatically transmit the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components to the remote computing device after the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components is modified by the interface.
a database for recording information on a status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components;
a remote computing device in communication with the database;
an interface for modifying the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components in the database; and a control system for managing the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components in the database, the control system being configured to automatically transmit the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components to the remote computing device after the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the prefabricated components is modified by the interface.
5. The system of claim 4 wherein the remote computing device further comprises a mobile phone.
6. The system of claim 4 wherein the interface further comprises a computer device having a keyboard.
7. A method of tracking the transportation of construction equipment to a construction site, the method comprising:
permitting a construction manager on a construction project to a request information on the shipping readiness of prefabricated construction components at a distribution centre related to the construction project using a remote computing device;
receiving at the remote computing device information on the fabrication of prefabrication construction components at the distribution centre;
transmitting from the construction site an order for at least one of the prefabrication construction components; and automatically receiving at the remote computing device a status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered prefabricated components after the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered prefabricated component changes.
permitting a construction manager on a construction project to a request information on the shipping readiness of prefabricated construction components at a distribution centre related to the construction project using a remote computing device;
receiving at the remote computing device information on the fabrication of prefabrication construction components at the distribution centre;
transmitting from the construction site an order for at least one of the prefabrication construction components; and automatically receiving at the remote computing device a status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered prefabricated components after the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered prefabricated component changes.
8. The method of claim 7 further comprising automatically receiving at the remote computing device the status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered component after each change in status of the shipping, delivery and receipt of the at least one ordered component.
Priority Applications (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2831123A CA2831123A1 (en) | 2013-10-22 | 2013-10-22 | Method and system for managing the shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2831123A CA2831123A1 (en) | 2013-10-22 | 2013-10-22 | Method and system for managing the shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2831123A1 true CA2831123A1 (en) | 2015-04-22 |
Family
ID=53002952
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA2831123A Abandoned CA2831123A1 (en) | 2013-10-22 | 2013-10-22 | Method and system for managing the shipping, delivery and receipt of prefabricated construction components |
Country Status (1)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| CA (1) | CA2831123A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN113548553A (en) * | 2021-07-19 | 2021-10-26 | 中建八局第三建设有限公司 | Unmanned material elevator conveying system for construction and material conveying method |
-
2013
- 2013-10-22 CA CA2831123A patent/CA2831123A1/en not_active Abandoned
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CN113548553A (en) * | 2021-07-19 | 2021-10-26 | 中建八局第三建设有限公司 | Unmanned material elevator conveying system for construction and material conveying method |
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