Reconfigurable Physical Internet Driven Urban Distribution Network
Author(s)
Kahalimoghadam, Masoud
Thompson, Russell
Zhang, Lele
Kirley, Michael
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Supplementary to:
Abstract
"The Physical Internet (PI) revolutionizes freight logistics through modular standardization, open networks, and intermodal interoperability. By treating shipments as dynamically routed π-containers, PI improves transport capacity utilization and freight distribution efficiency. However, its reliance on predefined corridors limits its adaptability to real-time disruptions and demand fluctuations. A reconfigurable urban distribution network (RUDN) addresses these challenges by offering a decentralized and adaptive logistics framework that continuously adjusts based on capacity, disruptions, and market dynamics. In an RUDN, nodes do not have fixed roles but dynamically adapt their functions in response to logistics demand, considering factors such as volume, location, and delivery time.
Digital twin (DT) technology supports this adaptability by creating real-time virtual representations of freight movement, enabling predictive analytics and autonomous logistics optimization. By integrating IoT-driven data, DT enhances visibility, supports disruption management, and facilitates real-time freight flow reconfiguration. Despite its advantages, challenges remain in global scalability, computational efficiency, decentralized coordination, and secure data-sharing.
Combining PI, RUDN, and DT, urban freight can support self-optimizing ecosystems with dynamic logistics routing and enhanced resilience. However, realizing this vision requires overcoming technological, regulatory, and operational barriers through empirical research, case studies, and cross-sector collaboration."
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Date
2025-06
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Text
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Proceedings
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