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

Author

Listed:
  • Marc Guerreiro Augusto

    (Chair of Agent Technology, DAI-Labor, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Julian Maas

    (Chair of Logistics, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Martin Kosch

    (Chair of Logistics, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Manuel Henke

    (GT-ARC gGmbH, TU Berlin Institute, 10587 Berlin, Germany)

  • Tobias Küster

    (GT-ARC gGmbH, TU Berlin Institute, 10587 Berlin, Germany)

  • Frank Straube

    (Chair of Logistics, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany)

  • Sahin Albayrak

    (Chair of Agent Technology, DAI-Labor, Technische Universität Berlin, 10623 Berlin, Germany
    GT-ARC gGmbH, TU Berlin Institute, 10587 Berlin, Germany)

Abstract

Background : 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. Method : 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. Results : Through initial implementation and piloting, we demonstrate the practical applicability and advantages of this architecture. Conclusions : 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.

Suggested Citation

  • Marc Guerreiro Augusto & Julian Maas & Martin Kosch & Manuel Henke & Tobias Küster & Frank Straube & Sahin Albayrak, 2025. "Autonomous Van and Robot Last-Mile Logistics Platform: A Reference Architecture and Proof of Concept Implementation," Logistics, MDPI, vol. 9(1), pages 1-15, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jlogis:v:9:y:2025:i:1:p:10-:d:1566281
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Boysen, Nils & Schwerdfeger, Stefan & Weidinger, Felix, 2018. "Scheduling last-mile deliveries with truck-based autonomous robots," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 271(3), pages 1085-1099.
    2. Boysen, Nils & Schwerdfeger, Stefan & Weidinger, Felix, 2018. "Scheduling last-mile deliveries with truck-based autonomous robots," Publications of Darmstadt Technical University, Institute for Business Studies (BWL) 126189, Darmstadt Technical University, Department of Business Administration, Economics and Law, Institute for Business Studies (BWL).
    3. Fang Li & Oliver Kunze, 2023. "A Comparative Review of Air Drones (UAVs) and Delivery Bots (SUGVs) for Automated Last Mile Home Delivery," Logistics, MDPI, vol. 7(2), pages 1-32, April.
    4. John Olsson & Daniel Hellström & Henrik Pålsson, 2019. "Framework of Last Mile Logistics Research: A Systematic Review of the Literature," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(24), pages 1-25, December.
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