Temporal reasoning for airlift scheduling analysis

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Temporal reasoning for airlift scheduling analysis

Clay, J.D. / Wellman, M.P. / Bisbee, C.R.

A general temporal constraint reasoner and a set of mechanisms for deriving temporal information from airlift requirements and partial schedule specifications have been developed. Temporal reasoning provides a general mechanism integrating various types of temporal constraints on airlift events to provide time bounds on execution of the complete plan. Physical limitations of the aircraft and operating facilities and the availability of cargo produce constraints on when certain events may occur. Constraints include the time required to fly from one location to another, or the time spent waiting for an aircraft to be loaded. Comparing cargo requirements with airlift capacity over time provides additional constraints. By considering these constraints and their interactions, the planner is in a better position to assess the impact of high-level planning decisions. Deliberate planning for airlift operations consists of an iterated cycle of resource allocation, simulation, and analysis. This project deals only with deliberate planning.