2024
Authors
Carvalho, F; Tavares, JMRS; Ferreira, MC;
Publication
APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL
Abstract
This study explores the prediction and mitigation of pallet collapse during transportation within the glass packaging industry, employing a machine learning approach to reduce cargo loss and enhance logistics efficiency. Using the CRoss-Industry Standard Process for Data Mining (CRISP-DM) framework, data were systematically collected from a leading glass manufacturer and analysed. A comparative analysis between the Decision Tree and Random Forest machine learning algorithms, evaluated using performance metrics such as F1-score, revealed that the latter is more effective at predicting pallet collapse. This study is pioneering in identifying new critical predictive variables, particularly geometry-related and temperature-related features, which significantly influence the stability of pallets. Based on these findings, several strategies to prevent pallet collapse are proposed, including optimizing pallet stacking patterns, enhancing packaging materials, implementing temperature control measures, and developing more robust handling protocols. These insights demonstrate the utility of machine learning in generating actionable recommendations to optimize supply chain operations and offer a foundation for further academic and practical advancements in cargo handling within the glass industry.
2024
Authors
Ferreira, MC; Fernandes, H; Sobral, T; Dias, TG;
Publication
EUROPEAN TRANSPORT RESEARCH REVIEW
Abstract
Public transport systems worldwide experienced significant declines in usage during the COVID-19 pandemic due to lockdowns and work-from-home mandates. While numerous studies have examined these phenomena, there is still a need for empirical evidence that not only documents what occurred but also provides actionable insights for future transport planning. This study aims to enhance understanding of public transport passengers' mobility behaviors during different stages of the pandemic, using the Metropolitan Area of Porto, Portugal, as a case study. Automated Fare Collection data from 2020 were analyzed and compared with data from the pre-pandemic year of 2019. The analysis included temporal, spatial, spatio-temporal, and sociodemographic dimensions. Key patterns and trends identified include a rapid recovery of ridership post-restriction easing, homogenized daily travel patterns, varied impacts on different transport modes, and significant shifts in demographic travel behaviors. These findings highlight the resilience of public transport demand and suggest that adaptive scheduling, enhanced safety measures, targeted support for vulnerable groups, promotion of off-peak travel, investment in bus infrastructure, and encouragement of multi-modal transport are essential strategies. Implementing these strategies can help improve public transport planning and mitigate the adverse effects of future crises.
2024
Authors
Lagoa, P; Galvao, T; Ferreira, MC;
Publication
INFRASTRUCTURES
Abstract
Effective traffic management is crucial in addressing the growing complexities of urban mobility, and variable message signs (VMSs) play a vital role in delivering real-time information to road users. Despite their widespread application, there is limited comprehensive understanding of how VMS influence user behavior and optimize traffic flow. This systematic literature review aims to address this gap by examining the effectiveness of VMS in shaping user interactions and enhancing traffic management systems. Using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) methodology, a thorough analysis of relevant studies was conducted to identify key factors influencing VMS impact, including message content and characteristics, complementary sources of information, user demographics, VMS location, and users' reliance on these signs. Additionally, the review explores the implications of displaying non-critical information on VMS and introduces virtual dynamic message signs (VDMSs) as an innovative approach for delivering public traveler information. The study identifies several research gaps, such as the integration of VMS with vehicle-to-everything (V2X) technologies, navigation systems, the need for validation in real-world scenarios, and understanding behavioral responses to non-critical information on VMS. This review highlights the importance of optimizing VMS for improved user engagement and traffic management, providing valuable insights and directions for future research in this evolving field.
2024
Authors
Teixeira, AS; Campos, MJ; Fernandes, CS; Ferreira, MC;
Publication
Nursing Practice Today
Abstract
2024
Authors
Vaz T.G.; Oliveira B.B.; Brandão L.;
Publication
Applied Energy
Abstract
In the energy production sector, increasing the quantity and efficiency of renewable energies, such as hydropower plants, is crucial to mitigate climate change. This paper proposes a new and flexible model for optimising operational decisions in watershed systems with interconnected dams. We propose a systematic representation of watersheds by a network of different connection points, which is the basis for an efficient Mixed-Integer Linear Programming model. The model is designed to be adaptable to different connections between dams in both main and tributary rivers. It supports decisions on power generation, pumping and water discharge, maximising profit, and considering realistic constraints on water use and factors such as future energy prices and weather conditions. A relax-and-fix heuristic is proposed to solve the model, along with two heuristic variants to accommodate different watershed structures and sizes. Methodological tests with simulated instances validate their performance, with both variants achieving results within 1% of the optimal solution faster than the model for the tested instances. To evaluate the performance of the approaches in a real-world scenario, we analyse the case study of the Cávado watershed (Portugal), providing relevant insights for managing dam operations. The model generally follows the actual decisions made in typical situations and flood scenarios. However, in the case of droughts, it tends to be more conservative, saving water unless necessary or profitable. The model can be used in a decision-support system to provide decision-makers with an integrated view of the entire watershed and optimised solutions to the operational problem at hand.
2024
Authors
Soppert, M; Oliveira, BB; Angeles, R; Steinhardt, C;
Publication
Journal of Business Economics
Abstract
Car rental and car sharing are two established mobility concepts which traditionally have been offered by specialized providers. Presumably to increase utilization and profitability, most recently, car rental providers began to offer car sharing in addition, and vice versa. To assess and quantify benefits and drawbacks of combining both into a single mobility concept with one common fleet, we consider such combined systems on an aggregate level, replicating demand patterns and rentals throughout a typical week. Our systematic approach reflects that, depending on a provider’s status quo, different business practices exist, for example with regard to the applied revenue management approaches. Methodologically, our analyses base on mathematical optimization. We propose several models that consider the different business practices and degrees to which the respective new mobility concept is offered. To support mobility providers in their strategic decision-making, we derive managerial insights based on numerical studies that use real-life data. © The Author(s) 2024.
The access to the final selection minute is only available to applicants.
Please check the confirmation e-mail of your application to obtain the access code.