Autonomous Van and Robot Last-Mile Logistics Platform: A Reference Architecture and Proof of Concept Implementation

<i>Background</i>: With urban logistics facing challenges such as high delivery volumes and driver shortages, autonomous driving emerges as a promising solution. However, the integration of autonomous vans and robots into existing fulfillment processes and platforms remains largely unexp...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Marc Guerreiro Augusto, Julian Maas, Martin Kosch, Manuel Henke, Tobias Küster, Frank Straube, Sahin Albayrak
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: MDPI AG 2025-01-01
Series:Logistics
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Online Access:https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6290/9/1/10
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Summary:<i>Background</i>: With urban logistics facing challenges such as high delivery volumes and driver shortages, autonomous driving emerges as a promising solution. However, the integration of autonomous vans and robots into existing fulfillment processes and platforms remains largely unexplored. <i>Method</i>: This paper addresses this gap by developing and piloting a comprehensive blueprint architecture tailored for autonomous mobility in urban last-mile delivery. The proposed framework integrates autonomous vehicle operations, data processing, and stakeholder collaboration. <i>Results</i>: Through initial implementation and piloting, we demonstrate the practical applicability and advantages of this architecture. <i>Conclusions</i>: This study contributes to the understanding of essential data, services, and tools, providing a valuable guideline for Logistics Service Providers aiming to implement autonomous last-mile delivery solutions.
ISSN:2305-6290