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The Physical Internet (PI) offers an innovative approach to logistics networks, focussing on operational, digital, and physical interconnectivity through encapsulation, interfaces, and protocols. However, PI network can be complex to manage due to its dynamic structure and the need for routing protocols that adapt to continually evolving circumstances. This paper proposes a dynamic and reactive routing protocol for a PI sub-network, leveraging well-known Internet techniques, namely 'Route Request' and 'Route Reply'. The objective is to enable dynamic, self-starting, multi-hop routing among nodes, ensuring continuous connectivity even amidst network disruptions. Moreover, the protocol incorporates reactive assignment algorithms to address disruptions, such as product shortages and resource unavailability. Additionally, the protocol is innovative in considering each container and resource's preferences and local knowledge of the system's known state. To include preferences in decision-making, we incorporate the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution and goal programming. Finally, we use multi-agent simulation and real order data from two major French retail chains to evaluate the protocol's performance. Results showed improved routing robustness and efficiency amidst disruptions compared to state-of-the-art methods. Various scenarios have been examined to yield promising insights for future research and practical applications in the realm of the PI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of the Physical Internet (PI) has been introduced as a vision for globally efficient and sustainable logistics. Examining the activities of the PI since its foundation, enormous efforts can be recognised in the political and business spheres. Furthermore, the topic has received considerable attention from logistics and supply chain management scientists. In this context, a wide variety of dimensions of the PI concept has been investigated. In contrast to some existing qualitative literature reviews, this study focuses on a quantitative review methodology to provide a holistic overview of the PI concept and its underlying dimensions and interrelations. Based on bibliometric performance analysis and science mapping, this research maps and connects the extant PI literature landscape. In doing so, the most important journals, researchers, and institutions in the PI field are identified. Furthermore, eight research topics are grouped thematically, including PI benefits and the challenge of its operationalisation, carriers and shippers in the PI network, PI foundations, smart product-service systems and services, hyperconnected city logistics, information and communication technology requirements, modular PI containers, and organisation and control of PI hubs. Based on the clustering of existing research, the study concludes by providing directions for future research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urban freight logistics is a complex interaction of stakeholders, technology, and infrastructure that shapes the dynamics of city logistics networks. The need for efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability in urban logistics is paramount due to the unpredictability of order patterns and the dispersed nature of delivery points. However, traditional approaches often result in isolated stakeholder operations and limited collaboration, leading to underutilized resources and duplicated efforts. This paper proposes a framework for the operation of the Physical Internet (PI) in logistics, which aims to break down silos and foster collaboration to minimize environmental impact in cities. The PI envisions standardized, interconnected logistics operations akin to digital packets moving through a network of hubs. Collaborative distribution networks in urban freight and the PI share the goal of transforming isolated operations into interconnected systems. The symbiotic relationship between these concepts offers a promising solution to achieve sustainable, efficient urban logistics systems. The integration of the Physical Internet Framework and the Sustainable Urban Logistics Plan holds the potential to usher in a transformative era of collaboration, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, paving the way for a more sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the Smart Logistics Node concept, which combines the physical infrastructure of logistics nodes with digital systems to enhance collaboration. The Smart Logistics Node benefits from data sharing, supporting infrastructure, and Connected and Automated Transport (CAT) technologies. Based on a literature review on logistics nodes and CAT, we propose a general classification of Smart Logistics Nodes distinguishing upon the node function, degree of organisational (de-)centralisation, digital integration, and infrastructure support for automated driving. Then, we classify sixteen logistics nodes and find that high digital integration is common while automation is lacking. Further automation entails mixed traffic on public roads and requires organisational changes that do not always align with current business models. Our work supports the adoption of emerging technology at logistics nodes and the comparability of business cases. Ultimately, node authorities can use our concept and classification to draw a roadmap to develop CAT capabilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Urban freight logistics is a complex interaction of stakeholders, technology, and infrastructure that shapes the dynamics of city logistics networks. The need for efficiency, flexibility, and sustainability in urban logistics is paramount due to the unpredictability of order patterns and the dispersed nature of delivery points. However, traditional approaches often result in isolated stakeholder operations and limited collaboration, leading to underutilized resources and duplicated efforts. This paper proposes a framework for the operation of the Physical Internet (PI) in logistics, which aims to break down silos and foster collaboration to minimize environmental impact in cities. The PI envisions standardized, interconnected logistics operations akin to digital packets moving through a network of hubs. Collaborative distribution networks in urban freight and the PI share the goal of transforming isolated operations into interconnected systems. The symbiotic relationship between these concepts offers a promising solution to achieve sustainable, efficient urban logistics systems. The integration of the Physical Internet Framework and the Sustainable Urban Logistics Plan holds the potential to usher in a transformative era of collaboration, efficiency, and environmental responsibility, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Current supply chain management (SCM) requires the control of physical and information flows in order to satisfy the customer, i.e. deliver the right product to the customer at the right place, at the right time, at the right price and at the lowest cost. SCM is inseparable from traceability which makes reliable the said flows, accelerates the transmission of information on these flows, allows to access a detailed knowledge of the movements, and makes the flows visible. In order to streamline and monitor, if possible, in real time and permanently these logistical processes, we propose the design and implementation of an Ontology-based traceability system based on an architectural model for the physical Internet using computing resources such as Cloud computing, Fog computing and Internet of Things (IoT) to achieve efficiency and sustainability goals. To evaluate our system, we were able to carry out all the queries that the user can express whether he is a customer, a supplier or a manager. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study contributes to determining key attributes of the physical internet (PI) in circular economy (CE) as prior studies failed to explore the interrelationships among these attributes. The perspective of a CE is suitable to adopt the PI with an objective of obtaining global logistics networks formed on physical, digital and operational interconnectivity. This study attempts to propose a set of attributes in CE which is usually with qualitative analysis. The research results reveal multidisciplinary collaboration and technological advancement influence digital interoperability and physical infrastructure. Top criteria include Internet of Things, central orchestrator, alignment of resources, big data and blockchain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Physical Internet (PI) concept represents a paradigm shift in how logistics and supply chain management can be conceptualised and implemented. Through a meticulous literature review, this study maps the current state of PI research, spotlighting the necessity for a deeper dive into unexplored areas. The analysis reveals significant opportunities for enhancing logistic efficiency and sustainability, providing a foundation for future research and practical applications. This work invites scholars and industry practitioners to explore the transformative potential of PI. In the face of the dynamically evolving discussion on the Physical Internet, this article offers an in-depth analysis of the literature on this concept, shedding light on current research trends in this new face of logistics, challenges, and unexplored areas. The focus is on optimization models, collaboration, and system architecture, identifying knowledge gaps in areas of human impact on the management of the future logistics system and flows, legal aspects, financial management, economic feasibility, social and environmental effects, readiness for cooperation, security, and cultural differences. The literature review emphasizes the importance of PI for sustainable development and the goals of Industry 4.0, pointing to its potential role in transforming global logistic processes. By examining challenges, proposing solutions, and highlighting the potential of PI principles in improving logistic processes, this work constitutes a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers aiming to understand and implement the concept of the Physical Internet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The global logistics industry is facing looming challenges related to labor shortages and low-efficiency problems due to the lack of logistics facilities and resources, resulting in increased logistics delays. The Physical Internet is seen as a way to take logistics into the next generation of transformation. This research proposes a Physical Internet-enabled system that allows multiple companies to efficiently share warehouses and trucks to achieve operational efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. Methods: We propose a novel demography-weighted combinatorial optimization model utilizing a genetic algorithm and the Lin–Kernighan heuristic. The model is tested with real data simulations to evaluate its performance. Results: The results show that compared to the existing model presented in a previous study, our proposed model improves location optimality and distributive routing efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions by 54%. Conclusions: By providing a well-founded novel model, this research makes an important contribution to the implementation of the Physical Internet by computing optimal logistics hubs and routes as well as providing a solution to cut CO2 emissions by half. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The delivery of goods (freight) accounts for the major cost and emissions in logistics systems worldwide. The effective management of the supply chain requires logistical efficiency and sustainability. Several logistics performance measurements such as distances driven and fuel efficiency are also indicators of sustainability. As an emerging paradigm, the Physical Internet (PI) addresses logistical, societal, and sustainability goals. However, the question remains whether some aspects of logistical efficiency in traditional logistics could be incorporated into the PI paradigm. To this effect, we examine how peddling, a consolidation strategy in traditional logistics, can enhance PI supply chain. Specifically, we formulate optimisation models and study the case of a Mexican automotive supply chain from both the PI and traditional logistics perspectives by comparing three different configurations; namely, Model P built on PI, Model S based on conventional standard peddling, and Model H, a hybrid. The hybrid Model H is optimised in a two-phase solution framework. We show via the case of a Mexican automotive supply chain that Model H outperforms others on average distance travelled and truck utilisation. Thereby, it is concluded that appropriate peddling and shipment consolidation policies may enhance PI supply chain logistics performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Like any other industry, transport faces major changes. This fact implies risks, but - at the same time – great opportunities for improvement and development. The triggers of change come from area of technology, customer’s fast changing requirements and new industry actors that disrupt traditional business models. This study is aimed to achieve two of these aspects: the requirements of retail customers (contractual conditions agreed with the suppliers of transport for distribution to the stores) and the impact of the new technologies. This article focus is on the main conditions that develops new skills and competencies for service companies and remodels the processes according to new technologies. The current analysis ‘scope is to highlight the future trends of the relations between the customer and the carriers and the additional competences they will have to acquire on the Romanian market. The used research method was contract analysis and interviews with participating companies.

Current supply chain management (SCM) requires the control of physical and information flows in order to satisfy the customer, i.e. deliver the right product to the customer at the right place, at the right time, at the right price and at the lowest cost. SCM is inseparable from traceability which makes reliable the said flows, accelerates the transmission of information on these flows, allows to access a detailed knowledge of the movements, and makes the flows visible. In order to streamline and monitor, if possible, in real time and permanently these logistical processes, we propose the design and implementation of an Ontology-based traceability system based on an architectural model for the physical Internet using computing resources such as Cloud computing, Fog computing and Internet of Things (IoT) to achieve efficiency and sustainability goals. To evaluate our system, we were able to carry out all the queries that the user can express whether he is a customer, a supplier or a manager.

Information integration and sharing in a standardized manner is crucial to enable visibility, coordination and synchronization of supply chain activities, i.e., traceability within and across several companies. Product traceability is an essential tool fully integrated in supply chain management which should not only allow identifying, tracing and tracking but also ensuring product safety and quality. It helps to utilize the resources optimally and makes reliable the information and physical flows, accelerates the transmission of information on these flows, allows accessing a detailed knowledge of the product movements, and leads to the more effective management of the supply chain. However, several difficulties hinder product traceability implementation and make it a challenging task, including diversity of stakeholders, semantic differences between the involved actors, and lack of a shared language leading to confusion and misunderstandings, which make information exchange difficult. Highly expressive systems and techniques are therefore required. The latter must be characterized by the ability to exchange relevant data between stakeholders in a timely, meaningful and coherent manner. In this paper, we propose the development of an Ontology-based traceability system. The ontology is based on an architectural model for the physical Internet using computing resources such as Cloud computing, Fog computing and Internet of Things (IoT). The proposed system provides a shared and common language which improves information exchanges among all stakeholders in supply chains. To evaluate its consistency and efficiency, we carry out several queries dealing with different scenarios of product traceability. The validation results indicate that the developed ontology has the expressivity needed to represent all the knowledge related to the product traceability domain, enabling interoperability among different actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supply chains are complex, stochastic systems. Nowadays, logistics managers face two main problems: increasingly diverse and variable customer demand that is difficult to predict. Classical forecasting methods implemented in many business units have limitations with the fluctuating demand and the complexity of fully connected supply chains. Machine Learning methods have been proposed to improve prediction. In this paper, a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) is proposed for demand forecasting in a physical internet supply chain network. A hybrid genetic algorithm and scatter search are proposed to automate tuning of the LSTM hyperparameters. To assess the performance of the proposed method, a real-case study on agricultural products in a supply chain in Thailand was considered. Accuracy and coefficient of determination were the key performance indicators used to compare the performance of the proposed method with other supervised learnings: ARIMAX, Support Vector Regression, and Multiple Linear Regression. The results prove the better forecasting efficiency of the LSTM method with continuous fluctuating demand, whereas the others offer greater performance with less varied demand. The performance of hybrid metaheuristics is higher than with trial-and-error. Finally, the results of forecasting model are effective in transportation and holding costs in the distribution process of the Physical Internet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Physical Internet (PI) provides a solution for coping with the continuous rise in urban logistical demands by exploring same-level and cross-level paths. This research suggests a PI-based urban logistical distribution model based on PI distribution that minimizes transportation costs. It also intends to maintain the integrity of the logistical transportation process. This proposed model enhances the flexibility of goods operation and reduces the global cost of logistics' distribution using an interconnected and open PI logistics distribution mode. This model also explores the functional aspects of the operational problems of city logistical systems and relates to optimization problems. These functionalities are realized by the hierarchical functional structure and are characterized by different cost specifications. The proposed framework provides better integration and cooperation between city logistics warehouses and higher utilization level of logistical infrastructure. The experimental results show that the distribution cost of the PI logistics model is significantly better than that of a traditional logistics model. The elastic and cost advantages grow relatively as the infrastructure for distribution scales up and interruptions from emergencies occur. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study is to discover physical internet attributes for satisfying economic, social, and environmental benefits, and frame the hierarchical interrelationships of these attributes. The fuzzy Delphi method is used to define necessary criteria; fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory is adopted to identify the cause-and-effect relationships based on the experts’ viewpoints. Finding - The result also presents the most important criteria having causal effects on others including privacy preservation approaches, system of logistics network interconnectivity, distributed data storage, real-time locating system, and distributed multi-segment intermodal transport, from which recommend practical implications for the decision-making process. This study suggests both theoretical and managerial implications for improving the physical internet towards sustainable supply chain as physical internet has been perceived as a novel logistics model towards sustainability and a key solution for the current paradigms to overcome sustainable issues. This study contributes to the literature by pointing out the causal aspects for physical internet implementation, which are digital interoperability of supply chain, and shared warehouse and transportation networks.

Background: The global logistics industry is facing looming challenges related to labor shortages and low-efficiency problems due to the lack of logistics facilities and resources, resulting in increased logistics delays. The Physical Internet is seen as a way to take logistics into the next generation of transformation. This research proposes a Physical Internet-enabled system that allows multiple companies to efficiently share warehouses and trucks to achieve operational efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions. Methods: We propose a novel demography-weighted combinatorial optimization model utilizing a genetic algorithm and the Lin–Kernighan heuristic. The model is tested with real data simulations to evaluate its performance. Results: The results show that compared to the existing model presented in a previous study, our proposed model improves location optimality and distributive routing efficiency and reduces CO2 emissions by 54%. Conclusions: By providing a well-founded novel model, this research makes an important contribution to the implementation of the Physical Internet by computing optimal logistics hubs and routes as well as providing a solution to cut CO2 emissions by half.

The Physical Internet (PI) envisions a global logistics system that integrates physical, digital and operational connections. This study aims to develop a hyperconnected logistic platform for heavy-duty machinery (HDM) in the composting industry by utilizing a systematic methodology. The proposed architecture consists of four layers: the Domain Model, the MBSE Model, the Information Sharing Model and the Agent-based Simulation Platform. The Domain Model analyzes the current situation and investigates stakeholder viewpoints, and the MBSE Model reduces complexity and describes mutual interactions between requirements and needs. The Information Sharing Model focuses on the information exchange among the main components, and the Agent-based Simulation Platform implements the proposed platform. The feasibility of the proposed architecture is demonstrated through a use case in Styria, Austria. Three simulation-based scenarios are analyzed, starting from the semi-hyperconnected approach up to the hyperconnected approach with PI vision integration. The results indicate that the hyperconnected platform is successful in serving all composting facilities, leveraging underutilized resources and promoting high-quality compost production. Thus, the platform provides support in a local, communal setting, resulting in enhancing the circular economy within the composting sector. Our efforts aim to contribute to the realization of the Physical Internet vision and promote composting to ultimately achieve a more sustainable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Physical Internet (PI)-enabled hyperconnected order-to-delivery system (OTD) provides new solutions for sustainable supply chains from production perspectives. In this system, a PI-enabled hyperconnected manufacturing system is more closely tied with other functions through Internet-of-Things (IoT)-enabled machines for communication. In the OTD, the PI-enabled hyperconnected production–distribution system (PI-H) is modelled by multi-objective mixed-integer-nonlinear programming to evaluate sustainability. We develop an improved reference-point based non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (I-NSGAIII) to solve practical-scale PI-enabled hyperconnected production-distribution scheduling problems, with the problem-specific solution expression and dynamic programming, subproblem-guided crossover and mutation strategies, and adaptive evolution mechanisms. I-NSGAIII’s performance advantages and PI-H’s sustainable advantages are validated through extensive experiments.

The resilience and sustainability of supply chains are facing new challenges due to the increasing complexity of supply chains. Compared to traditional supply chain networks, the Physical Internet (PI) has the potential to address sustainable development challenges and build resilient supply chain networks by providing interconnected and open logistics services. However, the interplay between resilience and sustainability has yet to be thoroughly explored in the PI-enabled supply chain literature. This paper aims to investigate the relationship between resilience and sustainability in PI-enabled supply chains. An innovative hybrid approach that combines the resilient-sustainable performance scoring method with mixed-possibilistic programming is proposed to trade-off and analyze the relationship between the two. Applying the concepts of resilience and sustainability to PI-enabled supply chains involves optimizing costs, sustainable performance, and resilience levels simultaneously. This enables coping with unforeseen disruptions from suppliers, plants, and PI hubs. The results of computational experiments have demonstrated that the PI-enabled supply chain exhibits stronger sustainable and resilience performance in dealing with random disruptions compared to traditional supply chains. The fruitful research yielded important management insights and practical implications, thereby contributing to the reinforcement of the literature on PI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the rising urbanization and booming e-commerce, traditional last-mile delivery systems fail to satisfy the need for faster, cheaper, and more environmentally friendly deliveries. Several new approaches are put forward as an alternative to classical delivery systems in this regard, yet none of them offers the same level of flexibility, capacity, reliability, and managerial control by itself. This paper proposes a new last-mile delivery model that combines several new approaches and technologies to address this issue. More precisely, we suggest using public transit as a backbone network completed by automated service points, crowd-shipping, and backup transfers with zero-emission vehicles to provide a low-cost and environmentally friendly express delivery service. The design problem for the envisioned system is formulated as a two-stage stochastic program, and a branch-and-price (BP) algorithm is devised to solve it. Taking advantage of the nearly decomposable structure that would emerge in possible real-world applications, our study presents the first example of using decomposition branching in a BP framework to enhance computational efficiency. Extensive computational studies and simulations with real-world data reveal valuable managerial insights for the proposed system and attest to the efficacy of the suggested methodology. Funding: This work was supported by Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştirma Kurumu [Grant 218M605] and Bilim Akademisi. Supplemental Material: The online appendices are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/trsc.2022.1157. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Logistics research has been emphasising the importance of interconnectivity for better resource utilisation and real-time response against disruptions. However, lack of trust has become a significant obstacle in the business world, blocking the way to building an open information system and, thus, more effective route-finding protocols. This paper proposes a decentralised routing protocol for multimodal transportation in a new logistic paradigm named Physical Internet (PI), performing under a privacy-protecting information-sharing policy. We seek the possibility of building a system to connect entities in a trustless environment that strictly limits data usage to the embedded services at a structural level. In the proposed protocol, the only service is to find the shortest path while minimising unnecessary data-sharing, with the potential to plug in more services. If no party initiates the routing, the entities remain in the equivalent state of disconnected. This routing protocol avoids sharing over 90% of the information in a simple scenario. In addition, a numerical experiment is performed to justify the quality of routes planned by the protocol. • A communication-based routing protocol facilitating a decentralised Physical Internet information system architecture. • Routes are concluded implicitly by communication where no party holds the other's data for planning. • Privacy is protected as the shared data is greatly reduced. • Quality routes can be planned within an acceptable time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the effectiveness and the sustainability of logistics, the Physical Internet paradigm proposes disruptive solutions. This implies developing an ecosystem of tech-based logistics solutions and supporting methodologies that enable all players in global trade to cooperate. The purpose of this paper is to investigate systematic literature review (SLR) studies to gain detailed insight into how innovative transport technologies, and digitalization initiatives around the Physical Internet development impact supply chains. This paper presents the results of a tertiary study that systematically identified more than twelve thousand articles and selects to review 74 secondary studies on the application of disruptive technologies and the Physical Internet initiative on supply chains from a management perspective. This is complementary to previous reviews, since no one provides a comprehensive and consolidated approach towards the relationship of these three fields. The five-stage systematic review process proposed by Denyer and Tranfield (2009) is followed. As a result, we identify the key activities, knowledge areas and strategies in the supply chain field where the Physical Internet and disruptive technologies interact and are game-changing. Also, we present a conceptual framework that summarises the relationships that exist between relevant disruptive technologies, the physical internet topics, and supply chain key activities. The framework is helpful for researchers and practitioners to find potential technologies to invest in, to assess the potential effects on companies of their implementation, and to support strategic decision-making. The paper concludes with an outlook on future research opportunities from operational, tactical, and strategic perspectives.

The sharing economy is a peer-to-peer economic model characterized by people and organizations sharing resources. With the emergence of such economies, an increasing number of logistics providers seek to collaborate and derive benefit from the resultant economic efficiencies, sustainable operations, and network resilience. This study investigates the potential for collaborative planning enabled through a Physical Internet-enabled logistics system in an urban area that acts as a freight transport hub with several e-commerce warehouses. Our collaborative freight transportation planning approach is realized through a three-layer structured hybrid model that includes agent-based simulation, auction mechanism, and optimization. A multi-agent model simulates a complex transportation network, an auction mechanism facilitates allocating transport services to freight requests, and a simulation--optimization technique is used to analyze strategic transportation planning under different objectives. Furthermore, sensitivity analyses and Pareto efficiency experiments are conducted to draw insights regarding the effect of parameter settings and multi-objectives. The computational results demonstrate the efficacy of our developed model and solution approach, tested on a real urban freight transportation network in a major US city. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maritime ports are an integral part of global trade and the supply network system. An upcoming paradigm for innovation in this system is that of the Physical Internet (PI). This highly advanced way of shipping will present a very different logistics environment with respective challenges for maritime ports. For those investing in or operating port systems, it is important to understand whether different service quality aspects will be important in this future system, compared to today. Our paper deals with the port performance evaluation and selection problem. Although it has been studied extensively in a contemporary context, there has been no exploration of the criteria and preferences of decision-makers in the future shipping environment of the PI. Our objective is to define these criteria and explore their weighting in this new context. We propose two distinct autonomous decision-makers for port performance evaluation and selection in the PI: intelligent containers and vessels. We identify future port performance evaluation and selection criteria, and analyse their weighting based on an expert survey, complementing the extant literature on port performance evaluation and selection, and the PI. We use the Bayesian Best-Worst Method (BWM) to derive weights for the criteria. We find that, compared to the current port performance evaluation and selection literature, in a first stage in the modelling of intelligent agents' performance preferences, subtle differences in weights mark the step from the present towards the PI. Partly, this is reassuring for port authorities as they can manage largely the same set of performance indicators to be attractive for both decision-makers. However, the results also show differences between agents, with an increased importance of, in particular, Level of Service, Network Interconnectivity, and Information Systems. • The need to analyse port performance evaluation and selection in the Physical Internet (PI) is addressed. • A first stage in the modelling of intelligent agents', i.e. container and vessel, port performance preferences is conducted. • Level of Service, Network Interconnectivity, and Information Systems are criteria with increased importance in the PI. • The link is made between the smart agents' performance preferences and the LPI and GCI to support policymaking. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With Mobility-as-a-Service platforms moving toward vertical service expansion, we propose a destination recommender system for Mobility-on-Demand (MOD) services that explicitly considers dynamic vehicle routing constraints as a form of a “physical internet search engine”. It incorporates a routing algorithm to build vehicle routes and an upper confidence bound based algorithm for a generalized linear contextual bandit algorithm to identify alternatives which are acceptable to passengers. As a contextual bandit algorithm, the added context from the routing subproblem makes it unclear how effective learning is under such circumstances. We propose a new simulation experimental framework to evaluate the impact of adding the routing constraints to the destination recommender algorithm. The proposed algorithm is first tested on a 7 by 7 grid network and performs better than benchmarks that include random alternatives, selecting the highest rating, or selecting the destination with the smallest vehicle routing cost increase. The RecoMOD algorithm also reduces average increases in vehicle travel costs compared to using random or highest rating recommendation. Its application to Manhattan dataset with ratings for 1,012 destinations reveals that a higher customer arrival rate and faster vehicle speeds lead to better acceptance rates. While these two results sound contradictory, they provide important managerial insights for MOD operators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Internet of Things (IoT) vision enables multiple of resource-constrained embedded devices, objects, and humans to connect together through the Internet protocol for a ubiquitous data exchange. Logistics is considered to be a key player poised from this vision to achieve the full visibility and transparency through leveraging the pervasive interconnectivity to collect reliable and safe real-time data. In addition, the valuable information extracted and transformed from the IoT data can be exploited to create intelligent services and applications to improve the logistics activities as well as the overall performance of logistics operations. This paper aims at reviewing the state-of-the-art applications of IoT in the logistics sector. Although the adoption of IoT potentially gains huge benefits, there still exist barriers preventing the full adoption of IoT in the logistics. This paper also discusses such challenges that promise to expose a wide range of open research regarding the integration of IoT in the logistics domain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the opportunity to plan for a novel on-demand freight delivery service in urban areas with tight service and sustainability requirements. This contribution first attempts to focus on the feasibility of connecting people and freight mobility through the joint usage of transportation options. It builds on the hyperconnectivity principles enabled by the Physical Internet (PI) manifesto for city logistics, referred to as HCL (Hyperconnected City Logistics). To this end, this paper proposes a model-based decision support approach that seeks to produce effective delivery solutions for an on-demand multimodal transshipment problem. The approach considers multiple mobility options such as on-demand urban delivery services, cargo bikes, tramways, and buses to transship goods from one urban logistic hub to another. This novel short-term response planning problem complements the well-known day-before planning problem. The objective function aims to minimize the impact of freight moves in the time and space of urban transport networks. The proposed solution aims to increase the sustainability of cities by reducing congestion levels, the impact of logistics moves, as well as carbon emissions in urban areas. An illustrative case is provided to demonstrate how the novel multi-mode transportation system could operate and to provide an evaluation of the economic and sustainability benefits of such a system in an urban context. For a hyperconnected network, the impact of freight movements on the time and space of urban transport networks can be reduced by 91%. The results demonstrate the potential of urban synchromodality in improving economic efficiency, service capability, and sustainability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]