Smart Logistics
Smart logistics makes supply chains more effective and efficient at each step. With connected devices in the supply chain and intelligent asset tracking tools, smart logistics brings end-to-end visibility and improves the way companies transport goods, control inventory and mobile assets, replenish stock, and manage the retail experience.
Smart logistics offers public authorities opportunities to improve dynamic traffic management and to improve enforcement (if needed) of local rules, for example in terms of accessibility of a city center (time of day, location and type of vehicle). Next to that, the applications of smart logistics offer business opportunities to logistics companies and their clients. Smart logistics solutions improve efficient transport and warehousing, but they also facilitate the (inter)connectivity between different logistics networks, for example for the exchange of transport orders between different parties and/or modalities.
Hospital Operations
The team of Distribute developed a 3D simulation model for hospital environments to analyze and optimize logistic issues within hospitals. This 3D model is adjustable to personal preferences and has the possibility to test methods and algorithms to improve hospital operations.
Truck Platoon Matching
The team of Distribute developed a 3D simulation in collaboration with TNO The Hague to test the effectiveness of a decentralized matching system for truck platoons. Based on agent-technology several algorithms were developed and simulated to facilitate on-the-fly matching of platoons in real-time. The simulation consists of two parts: (i) matching during rest period of the driver at the Maasvlakte Plaza and (ii) matching while driving on the Ring van Rotterdam.
Autonomous Trailer Docking
The team of Distribute developed a 3D simulation to assess the impact of autonomous trailing docking at a distribution center. By means of autonomous terminal tractors, semi-trailers are shunted at the distribution center area. The simulation was used to test a planning & control system for a fleet of these autonomous vehicles, including dispatching, routing, traffic control and conflict avoidance.