Intelligent autonomous vehicles in digital supply chains

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to discuss key challenges associated with the use of either simulation or real-world application of intelligent autonomous vehicles (IAVs) in supply network operations; and second, to provide a theoretical and empirical evidence-based methodological framework that supports the integrated application of conceptualisation, simulation, emulation and physical application of IAVs for the effective design of digital supply networks. Design/methodology/approach First, this study performs a critical review of the extant literature to identify major benefits and shortcomings related to the use of either simulation modelling or real-word application of physical IAVs. Second, commercial and bespoke software applications, along with a three-dimensional validation and verification emulation tool, are developed to evaluate an IAV’s operations in a conceptual warehouse. Third, a commercial depth-sensor is used as a test bed in a physical setting. Findings The results demonstrate that conceptual and simulation modelling should be initially used to explore alternative supply chain operations in terms of ideal performance while emulation tools and real-world IAV test beds are eminent in validating preferred digital supply chain design options. Research limitations/implications The provided analysis framework was developed using literature evidence along with experimental work and research experience, without consulting any industry experts. In addition, this study was developed based on the application of a single physical device application as a test bed and, thus, the authors should further progress with the testing of a physical IAV in an industrial warehouse. Practical implications The study provides bespoke simulation modelling and emulation tools that can be useful for supply chain practitioners in effectively designing network operations. Originality/value This work contributes in the operations management field by providing both a multi-stage methodological framework and a practical “toolbox” for the proactive assessment and incorporation of IAVs in supply network operations.

Potential of additive manufacturing for upstream automotive supply chains

“…Optimising an industrial firm's external supply activities and internal handling processes can reduce the procurement costs. The Procurement 4.0 version may replace the forklifts with AGVs and robots for the internal transport of products or items in a workstation or warehouse (Tsolakis, Bechtsis, and Srai 2019). Automatic paths must be created between workstations and warehouses for achieving the complete automation of internal logistics.…”

Mobile Robotics in Agricultural Operations: A Narrative Review on Planning Aspects

“…This research aimed at supporting the planning of mobile robots in agriculture through identifying and classifying a set of technical terms and basic planning attributes. We envisage that the proposed clarification will inform analytical tools used for the effective design of autonomous operations in agriculture [67], hence further enabling the digital transformations in the extended agri-food supply networks [68,69].…”

Trends in Industrial Informatics and Supply Chain Management

“…In order to study autonomous vehicles, a methodology that starts with the study of models, and gradually integrates simulation modelling, emulation modeling and real-world hardware implementations to the SC has already been proposed [5]. This study particularly focuses on simulation [1] and emulation modeling [6] techniques.…”