Logistics Operations Research Articles

Cognitive Enhancement of Robot Path Planning and Environmental Perception Based on Gmapping Algorithm Optimization

In the logistics warehouse environment, the autonomous navigation and environment perception of the logistics sorting robot are two key challenges. To deal with the complex obstacles and cargo layout in a warehouse, this study focuses on improving the robot perception and navigation system to achieve efficient path planning and safe motion control. For this purpose, a scheme based on an improved Gmapping algorithm is proposed to construct a high-precision map inside a warehouse through the efficient scanning and processing of environmental data by robots. While the improved algorithm effectively integrates sensor data with robot position information to realize the real-time modeling and analysis of warehouse environments. Consequently, the precise mapping results provide a reliable navigation basis for the robot, enabling it to make intelligent path planning and obstacle avoidance decisions in unknown or dynamic environments. The experimental results show that the robot using the improved Gmapping algorithm has high accuracy and robustness in identifying obstacles and an effectively reduced navigation error, thus improving the intelligence level and efficiency of logistics operations. The improved algorithm significantly enhances obstacle detection rates, increasing them by 4.05%. Simultaneously, it successfully reduces map size accuracy errors by 1.4% and angle accuracy errors by 0.5%. Additionally, the accuracy of the robot’s travel distance improves by 2.4%, and the mapping time is reduced by nine seconds. Significant progress has been made in achieving high-precision environmental perception and intelligent navigation, providing reliable technical support and solutions for autonomous operations in logistics warehouses.

Methodology for International Transport Corridor Macro-Modeling Using Petri Nets at the Early Stages of Corridor Development with Limited Input Data

International transport corridors (ITCs) are intricate logistical networks essential for global trade flows. The effective modeling of these corridors provides invaluable insights into optimizing the transport system. However, existing approaches have significant limitations in dynamically representing the complexities and uncertainties inherent in ITC operations and at the early stages of ITC development when data are limited. This gap is addressed through the application of Evaluation Petri Nets (E-Nets), which facilitate the detailed, flexible, and responsive macro-modeling of international transport corridors. This paper proposes a novel methodology for developing E-Net-based macro-models of corridors by incorporating key parameters like transportation time, costs, and logistics performance. The model is scalable, enabling analysis from an international perspective down to specific country segments. E-Nets overcome limitations of conventional transport models by capturing the interactive, stochastic nature of ITCs. The proposed modeling approach and scalability provide strategic insights into optimizing corridor efficiency. This research delivers a streamlined yet comprehensive methodology for ITC modeling using E-Nets. The presented framework has substantial potential for enhancing logistics system analysis and planning.

Wayward Plots: Public Transport and Abolition Narratology in Namwali Serpell’s The Furrows

ABSTRACT This article examines the infrastructural imagination of Namwali Serpell’s grief narrative The Furrows. Building on existing research about public transport, carceral geography, and the infrastructural uncanny, it draws attention to the pivotal role of schools, prisons, and airports as well as the Bay Area Rapid Transit system in Serpell’s novel about a missing brother and his adult double. This enigmatic disappearance and several key scenes related to civic networks fit into the broader anti-Black condition Christina Sharpe has labeled the wake, as the narrative’s use of maritime imagery underlines. Yet the novel also performs a defiant form of “wake work” by deploying literary techniques involving minor characters, subplots, and foreshadowing that scramble the narrative’s own logistical operations in the service of an insurgent mode of formalism this article proposes calling “abolition narratology.”

Planning location of parcel lockers using group Analytic Hierarchy Process in Spherical Fuzzy environment

Parcel lockers have emerged as an effective solution to address inefficiencies in last-mile delivery. However, the selection of an appropriate location plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal service and enhanced logistic performance. To address this challenge, this work aims to define the best location for parcel lockers in the capital of Ireland, Dublin by conducting a novel decision-making model. The Spherical Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (SF-AHP) has been adopted to deal with the uncertainty in the decision maker preferences, while the Euclidean Distance-Based Aggregation Method (EDBAM) has been conducted to aggregate the decision makers preferences. The proposed integrated model is an applicable approach to elude AHP deterministic disadvantages, moreover, it is the first application of SF-AHP and EDBAM to select parcel lockers’ location. The findings, including the identification of the top three optimal locations, namely “Post office,” “On commercial area,” and “High population density area,” along with their respective weight scores, provide valuable insights for policymakers making strategic decisions regarding parcel locker placements in Dublin city.

Logistics Management and Operational Efficiency of Food and Beverage Firms in Port Harcourt

This study examined the relationship between logistics management and operational efficiency of Food and Beverage Firms in Port Harcourt. Two objectives, two research questions and two hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. This study is anchored on the positivist research paradigm; this study adopted the correlation survey research. The population of the study comprised 30 food and beverage firms in Port Harcourt. Based on the population of the study, which is 30 food and beverage firms, the study adopted a census approach with a focus on the staff (inventory manager, distribution manager and warehousing manager). To ascertain the respondents, the questionnaire was distributed in batches of three (3) copies per headquarter branch. A total of ninety (90) copies of the questionnaire were distributed. Copies of the questionnaire were administered and distributed to the management staff of food and beverage firms in Port Harcourt. The reliability of the study was tested using the Cronbach Alpha method. The study employed the Spearman Rank-order Correlation Coefficient for testing the various hypotheses formulated for the study. The findings of the study established that transport management showed a positive and significant relationship with operational efficiency of food and beverages firms in Port Harcourt. It also confirmed that inventory management showed a positive and significant relationship with operational efficiency of food and beverages firms in Port Harcourt. It was concluded that logistics management is a precursor to operational efficiency of food and beverages firms in Port Harcourt. The study recommends that foood and beverage firms should incorporate transport management (vehicle scheduling and route planning) in their operations processes and inventory management should be enhanced as it will help to improve productivity within the organization.

Development of sustainable logistics performance model using system dynamics in urban logistics service companies in Indonesia

Development of sustainable logistics performance model using system dynamics in urban logistics service companies in Indonesia

Life cycle assessment of a new smart label for intelligent packaging

Within the past years, there has been a growing demand for sustainable, cost-efficient on-line sensing of chemical and physical properties and locations of products. Measuring of products’ physical properties, such as temperature and humidity, could improve product safety and efficiency of logistic operations. In the future measurement of temperature of food items could also aid in reducing food wastage. The aim of this study was to calculate the life cycle environment impacts of a temperature logger, hereafter called smart label, primarily targeted for the monitoring of the packed food products. According to the results, the largest normalised impacts of the smart label production are resource use (both use of fossil fuels and use of minerals and metals), eutrophication and particulate matter formation. The main materials causing these impacts were the printed electronics inks and adhesives. In addition, energy used in the production, and plastics used as substrates had large impacts on the results. It should be noted that the present calculations have mainly been made on a laboratory scale. The impacts are likely to get smaller on an industrial scale with more efficient production. In the future, the label could potentially bring environmental benefits through product savings when used in products with high environmental load.

Enhancing Smart Cities through Third-Party Logistics: Predicting Delivery Intensity

This article addresses the key and current issues of smart cities in the context of last-mile supply management. Specifically, it explores how third-party logistics (3PL) activities impact last-mile delivery management in smart cities. It examines how 3PL affects delivery volumes, expanding the predictive capabilities of logistics operators. A research question included in the Introduction of this paper is also posed to explore the problem in depth. The research conducted focuses mainly on a case study conducted on the operations of an international 3PL logistics operator. In addition, predictive methods are used to analyse the shipment volume data for individual barcodes in the two analysed cities in Poland. Currently, the concept of a smart city assumes the limited participation of logistics operators in creating improvements for cities. The case study analysis shows that in the cities studied, 3PL companies, through predictive actions, can regulate the flow of vehicles out of the logistics centre and into the city, thus influencing the traffic volume in the city. The research is limited to two cities in Poland implementing smart city solutions and one logistics operator. The research also does not include e-commerce. The authors acknowledge that the results obtained cannot be generalised to a larger scale. This paper bridges the research gap on 3PL activities for last-mile logistics improvements. In addition, the paper proposes the first concept related to the implementation of a 3PL company’s predictive activities associated with the operator’s ability to control the impact on urban traffic.

CROP PREDICTION

Cereal crops such as rice, wheat, and different pulses account for the majority of India's food output. Predicting crop yields far ahead of harvest would assist policymakers and farmers in making informed decisions about agronomy, crop selection, and agricultural planning. Such forecasts will also assist related sectors in planning their logistical operations. The goal of the research is to create a machine learning model that can generate such predictions. The model is trained using a dataset that incorporates soil data from the previous decade, with features such as Ph value, temperature, and crop name, as well as labels such as crop yield. The model learns the link between the yield and variables such as soil type, location, and forecast using appropriate machine learning techniques.

Raising logistics performance to new levels through digital transformation

In view of the higher demand and customer expectations on the speed and accuracy of e-commerce logistics service as well as the repetitive and time-consuming nature of manual order processing operation. This paper proposes a robotic process automation (RPA) model to liberate human resources over time-consuming, inefficient, non-value-added, and repetitive operational processes occupying workforces. This paper proposed an RPA model that integrates three functional RPA bots in (1) tracking order status, (2) capturing order data, and (3) verifying order data to increase the efficiency and accuracy of logistics operation and the order-handling process in small- and medium-sized enterprise (SME) logistics company. A case study was conducted on an SME logistics service providing customers with inbound and outbound operation services. The result demonstrated that the proposed model significantly improves logistics operations performance against a human approach concerning key indicators after implementation. Logistics companies could free up the workforce for value-creating activities in value-added services.

Integrative Framework for Platform-Based Business Models to Drive Climate Neutrality in Logistics

To make possible the integration and harmonization as well as the orchestration of independent logistics operations, smart platforms and platform ecosystems are necessary to effectively connect the providers of sustainable transport solutions and those who need them. Since the beginning of 2023, incoming EU regulations regarding minimum standards for EU Climate Transition Benchmarks demand large companies to also report their emissions caused by subcontracting services. In response to this opening, we surveyed the past and ongoing experiences, we identified as well as explored the barriers that may determine a hindering effect, and we proposed an integrative framework for platform-based business models for sustainable logistics (PBM-SL) so as to contribute to designing business models for logistics, with the purpose of assisting any interested party in developing such a model for transport and logistics and of facilitating the insertion of sustainability issues among different platform solutions to optimize freight flows and drive logistics to climate neutrality.

Quantum-inspired computing technology in operations and logistics management

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore and disseminate knowledge about quantum-inspired computing technology's potential to solve complex challenges faced by the operational agility capability in Industry 4.0 manufacturing and logistics operations.Design/methodology/approachA multi-case study approach is used to determine the impact of quantum-inspired computing technology in manufacturing and logistics processes from the supplier perspective. A literature review provides the basis for a framework to identify a set of flexibility and agility operational capabilities enabled by Industry 4.0 Information and Digital Technologies. The use cases are analyzed in depth, first individually and then jointly.FindingsStudy results suggest that quantum-inspired computing technology has the potential to harness and boost companies' operational flexibility to enhance operational agility in manufacturing and logistics operations management, particularly in the Industry 4.0 context. An exploratory model is proposed to explain the relationships between quantum-inspired computing technology and the deployment of operational agility capabilities.Originality/valueThis is study explores the use of quantum-inspired computing technology in Industry 4.0 operations management and contributes to understanding its potential to enable operational agility capability in manufacturing and logistics operations.

The Effect of Warehousing in Logistics Performance of Shipping Firms in Nigeria

The demand for businesses to develop new methods to generate value and distribute it to consumers is rising in the highly challenging global market in recent times. This has forced the development of more effective and efficient warehousing techniques in the shipping industry. This study empirically investigated the role of warehousing in the logistics performance of shipping companies in Nigeria. Data were obtained from registered shipping enterprises and warehouse operators in Nigeria to test the hypotheses. Descriptive and inferential statistics were tools for data analysis. The conclusions of the investigation indicated that warehousing impacts shipping Companies' logistics performance significantly. Based on the findings from the results, it was established that if warehousing activities are successfully implemented in shipping companies, their logistics performance will be improved rapidly. Therefore, it was recommended that logistics managers and warehousing operators should devise strategies for improving their warehousing activities to achieve effective and efficient logistics performance.

A hybrid decomposed fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making model for optimizing parcel lockers location in the last-mile delivery landscape

Parcel lockers are considered an effective solution to address inefficiencies in last mile delivery. However, choosing the appropriate location is crucial to provide optimal service and improve logistic performance. Therefore, this research aims to assess the most suitable locations for parcel lockers in Dublin, the capital of Ireland, using a novel hybrid decision-making model. This study seeks to extend the Combinative Distance based Assessment method and integrate the Analytical Hierarchy Process method to handle parcel locker location evaluation problems through Decomposed Fuzzy Sets. The proposed model is a pioneering application in real-life scenarios, contributing to the existing knowledge in this field. The integrated model we propose offers a suitable approach for selecting parcel locker locations. The outcomes of this study will provide valuable insights for policymakers, aiding them in making strategic decisions regarding the selection of parcel locker locations within Dublin city.

CRISIS LOGISTICS IN CASE OF AN EXTREME WEATHER EVENT

Extreme weather events are becoming increasingly common in the Polish climate, with recentmeteorological phenomena such as storms, tempests and heavy precipitation serving as clearexamples. These events can be attributed to climate change, which has made extreme weather morepersistent even in regions not historically prone to such conditions. This article focuses on thelogistics of emergency operations using flash flooding as an illustrative case. The article exploresthe essence and tasks of logistics in crisis situations, particularly when dealing with extremeweather-related crises. The primary objective of logistics in these situations is to save lives, ensurethe well-being of the affected population, and provide essential support to those in need. Thesuccess of logistical operations is contingent upon informed decision-making, which must accountfor various factors, including the nature of the crisis, its causes, the affected population, availableresources and IT systems with up-to-date databases. This article emphasizes the importance ofrobust logistics management in extreme weather events and crisis situations, underscoring theneed for comprehensive planning, preparedness, and resource allocation to ensure the safety andwell-being of the affected population.

Potential carbon emissions reduction from warehousing activity using vegetation projection planting

Large energy consumption and environmental impact from logistical operations which majorly caused by the lighting, heating, cooling, and air conditioning systems alongside fixed and moving material handling equipment are now a major contributor to GHG (Greenhouse Gases). This research objective is to calculate the potential carbon emissions reduction by implementing vegetation projection planting on the company and alternative energy implementation. The method used in this study is by recording and calculating data from the company operational which then convert into data activity. The results from this study stated that company operational contribute 6,588,252.19 KgCO2/month. The existing vegetation capable to absorb 3,810 KgCO2/month, meanwhile the potential carbon emissions reduction which come from planting projection and alternative energy implementation is 6,928,718.7 KgCO2/month. With the increasing of environmental impact from logistical operations, it is necessary to conduct environmental assessment regarding the company business process. Calculating GHG emissions in form of carbon emissions can be the first step to conduct the assessment. Utilization of available green open space area and alternative energy implementation is some potential method to direct or indirectly reduce carbon emissions from warehousing operations.

«Green» logistics in the business of logistics transportation: prospects and features of the development of «green» logistics in business for Ukraine

The urgency of researching the directions of logistics transformation determines the growth of the social responsibility of business. This article examines the goals, tasks, and principles of ecological logistics and the factors of the concept of responsibility during the implementation of logistics operations. Now, significant results of applying new technologies and strategies in the activities of Ukrainian entrepreneurs, state institutions, and commercial and non-commercial organizations are being monitored. Today, logistics technologies reach a new level of organization and management, and innovative solutions, technologies, and strategies are used. This determines the high level of environmental protection. The business implements modern trends to preserve the environment. For example, factories and transport companies create their environmental plans. The majority of customers and companies prefer rail transport for international transportation. Thanks to this, the achievement of quantitative and qualitative goals of logistics activity is created. Through the cooperation of economic, social, and environmental components. This forms the image of «green logistics». The article considers the goals, tasks, and principles of «green» logistics, factors that contribute to the formation of the concept of general responsibility during logistics operations, and conditions of its implementation. It was determined that the possibility of achieving quantitative and qualitative goals of logistics activity is provided by synthesizing economic, social, and ecological components that form the outline of «green logistics»; the unity of the interaction of these components provides resource-saving technologies. The cooperation of these components creates conditions for the development of resource-saving technologies. Logistics has a significant impact on most components of the environment. For example, atmospheric air and water pollution, ozone layer destruction, etc. It has been studied that the impact of various vehicles on the environment has become an incentive for countries' governments to develop «green» technologies. It is important to note that state support is a significant factor in implementing ecological strategies and innovations for implementing approaches and methods of managing material, technical, production-economic, and transport-distribution operations. Keywords: logistics, «green» logistics, environment, logistics processes, «green» technologies.

Ecological modernization of enterprises’ logistics

The article designated the Relevance of introducing environmentally friendly technologies into enterprises' logistics in the context of the European Green Course policy. The research aimed to develop proposals and practical recommendations for improving logistics efficiency by implementing green technologies and optimizing the management of supply chains in trade. The object of the research is the logistics of "SILPO-FOOD" LLC, Ukraine. Calculation, analysis, chronological, generalization, forecasting, expert, observation, monographic surveys, and other methods were used in the research. In political instability, rising inflation, decreasing population demand, and growing competition, the feasibility of introducing modern ecologically oriented technologies for optimizing logistics operations, particularly the Webfleet GPS, in LLC "SILPO-FOOD" is substantiated. Proposed main stages of its implementation: definition of goals and planning; selection and coordination of functions with the supplier; preparation of vehicles, installation, and adjustment of equipment; employee training; system testing; monitoring and optimization of system operation. The main economic results of implementing this system are reducing fuel costs by 15%, maintenance by 28%, and insurance by 5%. In general, using the specified GPS will help reduce the harmful impact on the environment due to the optimization of routes, achieve savings in fuel and lubricants, and ensure better control of the technical condition of vehicles and the environmental friendliness of logistics processes. For further ecological modernization of logistics, it is advisable to focus research on implementing the Digital Twins technology of the supply chain. Its use will contribute to optimizing stocks and routes, better managing product safety and quality, improving customer service, and more accurate forecasting of demand. Keywords: Ecological modernization, enterprise, trade, logistics, technology, vehicle, expenses, route.

A Preliminary Study of Role and Challenges of IOT in Supply Chain Management

Abstract: This paper delves into research on the Internet of Things (IoT) within the context of supply chain management (SCM). It comprehensively addresses the definition of IoT, key technology enablers, various SCM processes, and applications. The Internet of Things has the potential to address limitations in certain aspects of SCM, such as monitoring, production management, logistics operations efficiency, information exchange and communication, supply chain modeling, intelligent information collection, and security. The advent of IoT technology has ushered in a new era in logistics. The paper examines the current application areas and future prospects of this technology. Challenges encountered in implementation underscore the need for further refinement of IoT technology. Despite these obstacles, experts contend that the crux lies not in issues of costs, standards, and techniques, but in the establishment of a viable business model in the SCM and logistics industries.

An innovative approach towards sustainability by adopting identification technologies in the food sector - A systematic literature review

The food sector around the world is more concerned about food safety and authenticity. A lot of new technologies are being tested by the food industry to achieve the desired results. It is observed that many of the meat production companies are still facing issues with the technology implementation as they are still dependent on the traditional methods of traceability in meat production and meat processing. By doing so, a lot of food waste and delays in processing is the main cause. To understand the requirements and benefits of adopting identification technologies in meat production, a growing body of literature has been examined and analyzed by the authors. By following the PRISMA guidelines 45 articles have been collected from the Science Direct and Web of Science. This paper examines the different aspects in terms of sustainability and economic growth after accepting the identification technologies. According to the systematic literature review findings, this is the only article that describes the different aspects of technology in the food sector in depth. Mainly, the three different technologies RFID, NFC, and Barcodes are being noticed by the authors in different kinds of literature, which have a huge impact on the sustainability and efficiency of logistic operations. The study found that these technologies in the meat production and meat processing industries have the greatest value added to the supply chain. The value added by these technologies in the supply chain has a great impact on global and economic levels.