Physical Internet & AI
What is the Physical Internet?
The Physical Internet is a new concept in logistics intended to increase efficiency in freight transport by mimicking the way data is transported around the digital internet.
Goods are transported in intelligent modular containers of varying sizes, ranging from maritime shipping containers to small boxes that are moved in parcel or pallet networks.
These intelligent containers, known as π-containers, are tagged with information that allows them not only to be tracked, but also automatically scheduled through the logistics network, provided that suitable algorithms exist that are fast and flexible enough.
The present: Logistics Network Optimization
This dynamic routing of the freight through the logistics network is what interests MJC². Our software has been used for many years for tackling similar problems in parcel network optimization, retail distribution planning and synchromodal container logistics scheduling.
To a degree, some large logistics organisations are already moving towards operating their own physical "intra-net". Tracking and monitoring of freight, whether it be parcels or shipping containers is becoming more common, especially for high value or sensitive cargo such as hi-tech, automotive or pharmaceutical goods.
Therefore the dynamic scheduling and routing capability offered by MJC²'s software is already relevant to many distribution and logistics networks, especially those which rely on close end-to-end synchronisation such as hub-and-spoke operations, multimodal logistics, just-in-time manufacturing and temperature-sensitive goods.
The Physical Internet will drive closer integration of global supply chains at multiple levels.
Future Ambitions
However, with an eye on the future, MJC² is involved in the ambitious and highly innovative ePIcenter project, which is developing the Physical Internet concept further.
ePIcenter involves new freight transport technology such as Hyperloop, autonomous electric delivery vehicles and connectainers, which are likely to be part of the sustainable Physical Internet of the future.
The project is also developing innovative secure data sharing technologies and AI algorithms to reduce the environmental impact of global logistics. Again, these technologies and innovations are likely to be important in turning the Physical Internet concept into reality.