AI-enabled management of omnichannel distribution systems
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Lunds universitet - Lunds Tekniska Högskola Inst f maskinvetenskaper |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 6 235 000 |
| Project duration | November 2024 - December 2027 |
| Status | Ongoing |
| Venture | Transport and mobility services - FFI |
| Call | Transport and mobility services - FFI – autumn 2024 |
Purpose and goal
The aim of this research project is to develop new mathematical methods for managing sustainable multi-echelon omnichannel distribution systems that can leverage AI-based demand forecasts and optimize total system performance. The project is based on close collaboration between researchers at LTH and Volvo Group’s advanced analytics team. The goal is to drastically improve the resource efficiency in Volvo’s global distribution system.
Expected effects and result
The project is expected to result in better coordinated product flows, and distribution systems with improved service ability, less total inventory, fewer and more resource-efficient emergency shipments, better use of vehicle capacities, and thereby a more effective transport system.
Planned approach and implementation
The project is divided into three work packages and several subprojects with research activities involving forecasting, data analysis, model development and evaluation. The new mathematical models and solution methods are developed by the LTH researchers in close collaboration with Volvo’s Advanced Analytics Team (VAAT) assuring validity and relevance for Volvo. VAAT are responsible for developing the new AI-based forecasts, systems integration, and evaluation of the new methods at Volvo.