Execution Control Object (ECO)

Definition

An ECO is an entity used for controlling the execution of tasks in predefined zones or nodes of a site.

Use

ECOs are defined to limit the number of constraint objects, such as resources , tasks or handling units , subscribed to a zone/node at any one time.

You can define two types of ECOs in Customizing for Start of the navigation path Logistics Execution Next navigation step Task & Resource Management Next navigation step Control Data Next navigation step Execution Control: End of the navigation path

  1. Static ECO

    An ECO whereby the allowed quantities of the constraint objects do not change over time.

    You create a static ECO connected to a zone when you limit the numbers of resources that can be working in it simultaneously. Since the zone has a fixed capacity which does not change over time, the allowed quantities of resources within the zone also do not change.

    You create a static ECO connected to a node when you limit the numbers of handling units that can be physically located at it at any one time. Since the node has a fixed capacity which does not change over time, the allowed quantities of handling units at the node also do not change.

  2. Dynamic ECO

    An ECO whereby the allowed quantities of the constraint objects change over time.

    You create a dynamic ECO connected to a zone when you select tasks as the constraint type. In such a case, the system determines the number of available tasks by comparing the total number of tasks starting from the zone with the number of these tasks subscribed to resources. Since the number of available tasks changes over time, the ECO is dynamic.

    Dynamic ECOs control the number of resources which are sent to a zone by taking into account the number of available tasks or task bundles with the resources’ capacities. Thus they are essential for the workability of the semi-system guided mode of task selection, where resources are being sent by the system to a specific zone without any actual task assignment.

You can enable and disable ECOs via the Enable and Disable TRM monitor methods. For more information, see Monitor Methods .