Logistics Planning Research Articles

Smart Waste Management System

Internet of Things (IoT) plays an important role to make the cities greener, safer, and more efficient. Waste collection management solution based on providing intelligence to wastebins, using an IoT prototype with sensors is been presented in this paper. Planning the waste management for all of the garbage produced in the country is an enormous task which involves both logistical planning and scientific knowledge in order to balance the impact on the environment and the people. With speedy increase in population, the issues related to sanitation with respect to waste operation are demeaning immensely. It creates unhealthy conditions for the citizens in the near surroundings, leading to the spread of contagious conditions and illness. In the proposed system, embedded device helps in real time monitoring of checking the status of the waste in waste dustbins. The data regarding the waste level will be used to deliver optimized route for waste collecting vans, which will reduce cost associated with fuels. The load sensor will increase effectiveness of data related to waste status and moistness sensor will be used to give data of waste segregation in a dust bins. Keywords: Internet-of-Things, smart waste management, Arduino, Wi-Fi, Internet.

Spatial participatory planning for urban logistics: A GIS-enhanced Real-Time Spatial Delphi approach

Effective urban logistics planning plays a crucial role in effectively managing infrastructure and transportation networks, contributing to the mitigation of negative externalities associated with last-mile deliveries and fostering city sustainability. Among the various facets of supply chain management, selecting appropriate locations in urban areas for logistics facilities, such as automated parcel lockers and smart loading bays, stands out. However, the complexity of decision-making in this context, involving diverse stakeholders with potential conflicting objectives, poses a significant challenge in reaching a common consensus. This paper proposes an innovative approach to address this issue by adopting a spatial participatory process that combines GIS models and Real-Time Spatial Delphi to identify suitable locations for two logistic facilities. The case study is the city of Dublin (Ireland), where an Urban Living Lab of the H2020 project SENATOR is based. A modified Delphi is used, first gathering expert opinions on preferences and objectives. These insights are then used to develop a spatial analysis using GIS, ranking areas according to the expert preferences. These outcomes form the basis for the Real-Time Spatial Delphi, where stakeholders and experts working on the project collaboratively engage to achieve a spatial consensus on the territory. The findings of this study provide valuable information for stakeholders, policymakers, local authorities, and governmental bodies to implement specific actions. Through the active involvement of key actors in the decision-making process, this approach ensures that the selected locations for logistics facilities align with the needs of all parties involved.

From classroom learning to real-world skills: an autoethnographic account of school field trips and STEM work immersion program management

Quality science education is crucial in preparing students for real-world challenges by fostering scientific literacy and critical thinking skills. Field trips and work immersion programs support this goal by providing hands-on experiences and real-world applications of scientific concepts, thereby enhancing student engagement and understanding. This autoethnographic study explores the management of school field trips and work immersion programs, emphasising their impact on student engagement and learning outcomes. Through personal experiences and reflective practices, I examine the logistical planning, risk management, and curriculum alignment necessary for successful implementation. The findings highlight how these programs enhance students’ understanding of scientific principles, foster critical thinking, and encourage STEM career interests. Key strategies include collaborative planning, flexibility, and ongoing evaluation, providing insights into optimising educational programs and bridging the gap between classroom learning and real-world application.

An artificial bee colony optimization algorithms for solving fuzzy capacitated logistic distribution center problem

This paper presents a methodological approach to solving the fuzzy capacitated logistic distribution center problem, with a focus on the optimal selection of distribution centers to meet the demands of multiple plants. The distribution centers are characterized by fixed costs and capacities, while plant demands are modeled using fuzzy triangular membership functions. The problem is mathematically formulated by converting fuzzy demands into crisp values, providing a structured framework for addressing uncertainty in logistic planning. To support future research and facilitate comparative analysis, 20 benchmark problems were generated, filling a gap in the existing literature. Three distinct artificial bee colony algorithm variants were hybridized with a heuristic: one using the best solution per iteration, another incorporating chaotic mapping and adaptive procedures, and the third employing convergence and diversity archives. An experimental design based on Taguchi's orthogonal arrays was employed for optimizing the algorithm parameters, ensuring systematic exploration of the solution space. The developed methods offer a comprehensive toolkit for addressing complex, uncertain demands in logistic distribution, with code provided for reproducibility.Key contributions include:•Development of a fuzzy model for the selection of distribution centers with fixed costs and capacities under uncertain plant demands.•Generation of 20 benchmark problems to advance research in the fuzzy capacitated logistic distribution center problem domain.•Integration of a heuristic approach with three distinct ABC algorithm variants, each contributing unique methodological insights.

Extent of Use of Virtual Field Trips in Instruction of History and Government Among Secondary Schools in Murang’a County, Kenya

The use of field trips for instruction has been limited by the cost of trips, logistical planning, time taken in traveling, and learners’ safety concerns. This has led to the adoption of Virtual Field Trips (VFTs) that offer opportunities for learners to virtually visit historical sites for learning. However, the utilization of VFTs in teaching and learning History and Government in secondary schools has not been sufficiently researched and documented in Kenya thus the essence of the study. The study was guided by Technological, Pedagogical, and Content Knowledge Theory (TPACK) and adopted a Quasi-Experimental Design targeting thirty-five public sub-county secondary schools. Schools and teachers were purposively sampled while learners were randomly selected. A sample size of 372 respondents took part in the study. Learners’ questionnaires, interview schedules for teachers, and classroom observation schedules were used to collect data. The study found that majority of teachers and learners were not aware of the use of VFTs for teaching and learning. Further, even after training, teachers were not able to effectively use VFTs in instruction. Against these findings, this study recommended that the Ministry of Education and Teachers Service Commission should team up and organize training for teachers to equip them with ICT skills for preparation and use of VFTs for teaching and learning. Also, teacher training institutions should endeavor to equip teacher trainees with ICT skills to exploit VFTs in their specific teaching-learning areas.

Reflections on Re/creating Missing Components of the ’Ahu Heva Tūpāpa’u for the Perth Museum (Scotland)

This piece is an exploration of thought processes, logistical planning, research and creative practice involved in conceptualising and making the missing barkcloth components of an ’ahu heva tūpāpa’u (chief mourner’s regalia) that went on permanent exhibition for the opening of the new Perth Museum in Scotland in March 2024. The regalia is possibly one of around ten collected in Tahiti by Captain James Cook during his second Pacific voyage, with one of these ending up in Perth via the collections of Dr David Ramsay. During the voyage, or possibly during its life in Perth, the regalia became separated from some of its barkcloth components. This paper is a record of the process that went into making the replica pieces

UAV-based field watermelon detection and counting using YOLOv8s with image panorama stitching and overlap partitioning

Accurate watermelon yield estimation is crucial to the agricultural value chain, as it guides the allocation of agricultural resources as well as facilitates inventory and logistics planning. The conventional method of watermelon yield estimation relies heavily on manual labor, which is both time-consuming and labor-intensive. To address this, this work proposes an algorithmic pipeline that utilizes unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) videos for detection and counting of watermelons. This pipeline uses You Only Look Once version 8 s (YOLOv8s) with panorama stitching and overlap partitioning, which facilitates the overall number estimation of watermelons in field. The watermelon detection model, based on YOLOv8s and obtained using transfer learning, achieved a detection accuracy of 99.20 %, demonstrating its potential for application in yield estimation. The panorama stitching and overlap partitioning based detection and counting method uses panoramic images as input and effectively mitigates the duplications compared with the video tracking based detection and counting method. The counting accuracy reached over 96.61 %, proving a promising application for yield estimation. The high accuracy demonstrates the feasibility of applying this method for overall yield estimation in large watermelon fields.

Prediction of birthdates based on fetal development in Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis)

Abstract Reproductive phenology is a critical element of how animals persist in their environment and affects survival of young, especially in seasonal environments. We investigated the correlation between fetal eye diameter and birth timing to determine if birthdates could be predicted by a prenatal metric. We used ultrasonography to measure eye diameters of fetuses and vaginal implant transmitters to determine birthdates of Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep (Ovis canadensis canadensis) in Wyoming, United States, from 2019 to 2023. Fetal eye diameter strongly predicted days until birth (β = −2.8; pseudo-R2 = 0.88). Effective prediction of birthdates via ultrasonography can yield opportunities for logistical planning in neonatal studies, monitoring changes in reproductive phenology, and evaluating questions of resource allocation relative to reproductive processes.

Strategic analysis of internationalization and insertion in the Brazilian Fast Food market: Simulative study from the Spanish company Cerveceria 100 Montaditos

The objective of this study is to analyze the internationalization and insertion of the Spanish business group Restalia, through the Cerveceria 100 Montaditos brand, in the Brazilian fast food market. It is a simulative panorama, via qualitative research, in a case study chosen by convenience and direct observation. The Pestel, Porter's Five Forces and SWOT analyses made it possible to map and identify critical success factors and threats. The results indicate that the self-service business model, with a variety of small snacks and beverages sold at low prices, has the potential to succeed in Brazil in cities with more than 200,000 inhabitants. This study lacks complementary research that involves detailing the Marketing and Logistics Plans, operational issues and economic feasibility, as well as contact with the company to verify the interest in operating in Brazil, considering that the business model undertaken exposes attractive characteristics, significantly applicable to the Brazilian reality.

Process of Acquisition to Destination – A Bang on Economic Prudence with Reference to Indian Logistics Industry

The study explores the significance of the logistics industry in the Indian economy and examines its sector-wise impact on economic well-being. It emphasizes how the presence or absence of transport infrastructure significantly influences economic growth and global competitiveness. With globalization expanding its scope, the study addresses the challenges of global logistics, such as trade laws, cultural differences, and the necessity for efficient cross-border transportation networks. Moreover, the research delves into factors driving the growth of the Indian logistics industry. Innovations and developments are seen as pivotal to economic progress, with intelligent logistics and smart transportation playing crucial roles. The Logistics Performance Index (LPI), a benchmarking tool by the World Bank, ranks countries based on logistics performance. In the 2023 report, India achieved an LPI rating of 3.4, securing the 38th position among 139 countries. The study substantiates the factors fueling the logistics industry with statistical evidence, highlighting technological advancements and the integration of IoT-enabled facilities as key drivers. Furthermore, the study discusses strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing India's logistics infrastructure. The PM Gati Shakti initiative seeks to streamline infrastructure development by promoting integrated planning and coordinated implementation across government departments. Concurrently, the National Logistics Policy (NLP) provides a comprehensive framework for the industry's development. Additionally, the Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP) facilitates real-time information exchange among stakeholders, thereby simplifying logistics planning.

Projecting and Transforming the Net Structure of Delivery Chains in Conditions of Latest Geo-Political Changes

Logistics in Russia has been actively developing lately. One of key trends in this process implies building a net structure by logistic companies as a foundation for efficient and competitive delivery chains. The article studied development of a net structure of delivery chains and specific features of new reality of net functioning, where their transformation shall take place. It was found out that strategic goals, which are targeted at by logistic company plans are based on rational net configuration. Availability of rationally projected logistic chains both inside the country and abroad became unquestionable competitive advantage that allowed companies to move goods to the final consumer. Globalization of economy in certain countries and the development of international trade in the last decade provided logistic companies with wide opportunities for profitable territorial location of delivery chain links. However, the desired success of logistic companies in attaining goals of functioning faced today’s transport and logistics reality caused by pressure of numerous factors connected with sanctions against Russia, which led to the necessity to transform net configuration. In view of this the authors discussed in more detail the mechanism of some factors, which can result in distortion of product flows and arising of new ones, including in international delivery chains.

Navigating organizational excellence: a comparative study and roadmap for streamlining defense infrastructure organizational model of Georgia

In the face of evolving geopolitical dynamics and increasing security challenges, the efficacy of a nation’s defense infrastructure is pivotal. This article conducts a comprehensive exploration of defense infrastructure organizational models, centering on the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Australia, and Latvia. Through a meticulous comparative analysis, the study delves into organizational structures, international operations, responsibilities, and strategic focuses of these nations’ defense infrastructure entities. The goal is to glean insights applicable to Georgia’s unique context, identifying key differences and commonalities to formulate a strategic roadmap for enhancing its defense infrastructure capabilities. The article examines each country’s defense infrastructure model, highlighting distinctive features in organizational structure, international operations, responsibilities, and strategic focus. Drawing upon these insights, the study proposes tailored recommendations for Georgia, spanning organizational structure, international operations, responsibilities and focus, modernization and strategy, and integration of departmental efforts. Key entities within Georgia’s defense infrastructure organizational model, such as the Department of Defense Sustainability, the J-4 Logistics Planning Department, and the Command for Logistics Support of the Troops, are illuminated to underscore their pivotal roles in fortifying the country’s defense capabilities. Concluding with the identification of key areas for improvement in Georgia’s defense infrastructure organization, the article outlines recommendations encompassing organizational structure, international operations, responsibilities and focus, modernization and strategy, and integration of departmental efforts. By aligning Georgia’s defense infrastructure with international best practices, the nation can enhance security, contribute to regional stability, and actively participate in global security efforts. In essence, this article serves as a strategic guide for Georgia, offering a roadmap to fortify its defense infrastructure in a rapidly changing world. Through a synthesis of global insights and tailored recommendations, Georgia can position itself as a resilient and adaptable force, safeguarding national interests and contributing to a more secure global landscape.

Optimization Model for Relief Distribution After Flood Disaster

Logistics planning is critical and a key component in meeting initial emergency needs in the aftermath of a disaster. The rapid and efficient distribution of logistical aid becomes critically important. In such situations, the construction of temporary depots in strategic locations and the determination of optimal distribution routes play an important role in ensuring that logistics aid can be distributed to the affected areas evenly. In this study, the Multi Depot Vehicle Routing Problem (MDVRP) is used which aims to minimize the total cost of distributing logistics aid which includes shipping costs, vehicle usage costs, temporary depot construction costs, and vehicle travel costs from distribution centers to temporary depots, while still meeting constraints such as logistics aid demand, vehicle capacity, area visits, maximum mileage, and depot construction. This model uses two types of vehicles where vehicle is tasked with carrying logistics aid from the distribution center to the temporary depot and vehicle is tasked with delivering logistics aid directly to the point of demand.

Research on the path of low-carbon construction of multimodal logistics parks under the background of “carbon peak” and “carbon neutrality”

Abstract The construction of intermodal logistics parks in China is developing rapidly, but most of them are in the bad mode of high energy consumption. While polluting the environment, it also affects the cost reduction and efficiency of the whole logistics industry, which is not conducive to the healthy development of the logistics industry. Therefore, under the goals of “carbon peak” and “carbon neutral”, the planning of multimodal logistics parks must seek the development path of low-carbon transformation. This is not only a responsibility, but also a necessary path for the healthy and sustainable development of the logistics industry in the future, which has far-reaching strategic significance. Therefore, based on this background, the paper describes the opportunities and challenges of low-carbon construction of China’s multimodal logistics parks. According to the above analysis, combined with the relevant policies, it puts forward the low-carbon construction path of multimodal logistics parks. It is intended to provide support for the promotion of low-carbon construction of multimodal logistics parks and help the practice of the “carbon peak” and “carbon neutral” strategic goals in practice.

METHOD OF TRUCK CREW WORK COORDINATION ON INTERNATIONAL ROUTES

The article deals with the problem of increasing the productivity of trucks in the performance of international road freight transportation in Eastern Europe and the European Union. There are restrictions on cabotage transportation (domestic cabotage), as well as time limits for the execution of orders and penalties for the execution of the entire volume of transportation in this case in addition to the restrictions of the European Agreement E/ECE/TRANS/564. The task of optimizing the required number of vehicles, drivers/driving crews, and route configuration was formulated and solved by mathematical programming with time constraints. At the same time, a variable method of organizing the work of drivers on adjacent routes was applied, by which drivers/crews are not assigned to a specific vehicle but are changed after a certain number of work hours. This minimized the non-productive idling of trucks, ensured compliance with the work and rest regulations of drivers, and minimized truck mileage on routes. In contrast to known methods and research results, the problem is solved with a guaranteed achievement of the optimum in an acceptable search time. This result was achieved due to the appropriate formulation of the solution conditions. The results can be applied in the logistic planning of transport processes.

Specific Approaches to Augmenting Logistics Planning in Joint Multinational Operations

Abstract Challenges and actions by state adversaries in the economic-social and military domains at the regional and global levels necessitate a more detailed approach to combat power at the operational level of NATO. This concept refers to the availability of the necessary logistical capabilities, as well as the leadership’s skills and willingness to use them effectively and efficiently on operational components and functions in the area/theater of joint multinational operations. In this paper, I highlight the appropriate elements for augmenting the logistics planning of joint multinational operations, the primary role of tailored support following the new requirements revealed by the lessons identified in the armed conflict in Ukraine. The sequences and subsections developed in the material present an approach and correlation necessary for increasing the role of logistical planning in joint multinational operations to provide timely support with sufficient resources to the organized, engaged, and led multinational joint forces in achieving operational objectives and the end state.

Anesthetic considerations in robotic surgery: a comprehensive review.

Recent advancements have led to a rise, in the demand for surgical methods with robot-assisted procedures becoming increasingly popular for addressing the limitations of traditional laparoscopy. However, incorporating surgery involves making changes in the way patients are positioned and logistical planning, which can challenge conventional approaches to providing anesthesia care. Despite these obstacles robotic technology shows potential for bringing about improvements in therapy. Anesthesiologists play a role in ensuring safety and delivering high quality anesthesia care during robotic surgery. Having an understanding of the elements of robotic surgical systems is essential for adjusting anesthesia practices effectively. Keeping up to date with the developments in surgery is key to achieving optimal outcomes for patients. Effective collaboration between teams and anesthesiologists is essential for managing the complexities of anesthesia during surgery. By promoting communication and cooperation across disciplines healthcare professionals can enhance safety and results. In summary while the introduction of surgery presents challenges in anesthesia care it also offers opportunities for innovation and advancement. Anesthesiologists need to embrace these advancements adapt their practices accordingly and engage in education and collaboration to ensure the safe and successful integration of robotic technology, into surgical procedures ultimately improving patient care.

Architectural technology and labour organisation at the late Neolithic Liangzhu City, Yangtze Delta region, China

Building the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site of Liangzhu City and its hinterlands was an enormous undertaking that required an unprecedented level of architectural innovations, clever logistic planning, and sophisticated labour organisation. We draw on environmental, archaeological and experimental data on the preparation and construction of grass-wrapped clay blocks at the Liangzhu City and investigate the importance of technological innovations to understand architectural energetics and labour organisation behind the unprecedented urbanisation at Liangzhu and beyond in prehistoric Yangtze Delta region. We estimate that each clay block took only around 5 min to prepare by 2–4 workers. Considering digging and other tasks, a small group of 3–4 workers would have been the most efficient arrangement in the preparation of grass-wrapped clay blocks. We reproduced different types of clay blocks, classified their sizes, and identified the standard sized (45x15 × 15cm) clay blocks that match with archaeological finds. Our results also show that standard-sized clay blocks had a more optimal grass-earth ratio which increased the drainage efficiency of the built clay-blocked structures and their resistance to weathering in wet conditions. The different architectural technologies applied by the Liangzhu builders constituted the Liangzhu builders’ earth-building toolkit. To maximize the efficiency, labour was divided and organised according to different construction tasks. The clay-blocked structures and stone beddings were mostly built by smaller groups, who were responsible for the preparation, transportation and construction tasks. Mobilization and division of labour during these construction activities might not follow the classical top-down process. Instead, the need to apply different architectural technologies, each restrained by availability of resources, convenience of transportation, and/or intrinsic engineering properties, at construction sites in a predominantly aquatic environment, prompted a creative form of labour organisation. Our study therefore provides fresh insights into understanding labour organisation, social structure and power relations at the Liangzhu Civilisation.

Uncertain remanufacturing reverse logistics network design in industry 5.0: Opportunities and challenges of digitalization

Remanufacturing, a crucial step of reverse logistics, focuses on restoring or enhancing the functionality of waste products. The challenge in planning an effective remanufacturing reverse logistics system lies in the uncertainties from various sources. In addition, the evolving industrial landscape in Industry 5.0 necessitates adaptability to technological advancements. This paper proposes an integrated and digitalized architecture for uncertain reverse logistics network design. A fuzzy optimization model is first formulated to identify potential network configurations under varying demand-satisfying and capacity constraints. These solutions are automatically converted and assessed in a dynamic simulation environment with practical operational logic under a set of real-world scenarios. Numerical experiments are performed to validate the method and show the advantages of integrating optimization with dynamic simulation on a digital platform for strategic network planning. The results, built upon previous research, indicate that while initial investments in technology might be substantial, they may lead to long-term reductions in both costs and emissions. Moreover, collaborative decision-making is essential to mitigate potential disruptions and cascading effects. Our research contributes to the development of a novel integrated decision-support architecture and underscores the role of digitalization and Industry 5.0 in future smart and sustainable reverse logistics planning.

Logistics and Urban Planning: A Review of Literature

While logistics has come to be understood as central to the functioning of global and urban economies, this field is often ignored by urban planners. This literature review presents a broad discussion of the links between the logistics industry and a series of urban planning concerns, including spatial reorganization, real estate markets, urban planning, labor, and urban governance. We develop a framework around the forces shaping the supply of, and demand for, land for logistics to engage with current conversations in urban studies on the production of urban spaces, as well as to assist urban and regional planners.