Self-learning AI-based transport optimization software as a service for the most complex logis-tics scenarios in real-time enabling double-digit cost-, CO2- and tyre wear savings

Project Information

LogisticsBrain

Grant agreement ID: 190195324

DOI

10.3030/190195324

Project closed

EC signature date 13 May 2022

Start date 1 June 2022

End date 31 May 2024

Funded under

• The European Innovation Council (EIC)

Total cost

€ 2 425 000,00

EU contribution

€ 1 697 500,00

Coordinated by

SMARTLANE GMBH
Germany

Periodic Reporting for period 2 - LogisticsBrain (Self-learning AI-based transport optimization software as a service for the most complex logis-tics scenarios in real-time enabling double-digit cost-, CO2- and tyre wear savings)

Reporting period: 2023-06-01 to 2024-05-31

Summary of the context and overall objectives of the project

Smartlane’s AI-based dispatch software LogisticsBrain is a self-learning, cloud-based software for automated transport optimization.

LogisticsBrain is the enabler of full automation for logistic systems and dispatching processes that so far still are based on manual processes. Sensitivity analyses offer global transport optima by computing several hundreds of scenarios in parallel. In this project, partial routes are linked to form a network flow by crowdsourcing. This allows for real time optimization of transport simply using one software – instead of more than three individual solutions as today. Transport logistics planning challenges are solved by standardized interfaces even for freight forwarders with complex IT environments.

The key objective is to finalise our AI models and qualify the solution via pilots with prospective customers to develop our solution to TRL 8.

Work performed from the beginning of the project to the end of the period covered by the report and main results achieved so far

LogisticsBrain’s AI core was successfully extended to cope with the most complex transport scenarios of 50+ hubs and multi-day routes with less-than-truckload (LTL), full truck load (FTL), and excess pallets.

For the pilots, we have focused our efforts in qualifying the full truck load (FTL) optimisation use case. Our API was successfully integrated with the pilot customer’s transport management system (TMS).

We also clustered our current lead pipeline to focus on freight forwarders specializing in FTL transportation. The German FTL sector alone includes around 20,000 freight forwarding and transport companies, and our current lead pipeline comprises over 360 leads with a primary focus on FTL transportation, providing access to clients to concrete numbers concerning their operational costs and allowing 100% cost transparency.

We further began developing and testing a CO2 report for our customers, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions and costs, while simultaneously enhancing market awareness through this innovative marketing instrument.

Progress beyond the state of the art and expected potential impact (including the socio-economic impact and the wider societal implications of the project so far)

LogisticsBrain was optimised using 4 months historical data (~25,000 shipments) and qualified for 3 months period by optimising FTL in 50 live plannings with a planning horizon of 2-3 days (~13,000 shipments). Results have shown that LogisticsBrain automates 80% of route planning and has the potential to save 2-3 FTEs per hub.

Our broad impact is contributing on the cost reduction and growth of our clients in a networked supply chain ecosystem. Our AI-based optimization engine for autonomous transport systems lowers operating costs due to route optimization and lowers durations of disposition, which increases delivery reliability. This addresses the mission "Shaping Europe's digital future" by providing technology that support the logistics industry within its currently occurring digital transformation process. Additionally, has a positive impact on building and keeping a flourishing European economy by facilitating the flow of goods by ensuring that transport, storage, provision, procurement and distribution is done safely and efficiently.

We further make a positive environmental impact. With LogisticsBrain we are improving the competitiveness of the EU by increasing efficiency in the logistics industry, actively combating climate change through approx. 21% CO2 savings per customer and, thus, are addressing the European Green Deal priority. The respective CO2 report for our customers, underpinning our claim, is under development. Since 26% of all emissions in Europe are caused by road freight transport, the impact of spreading our solution across Europe will be massive.

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