The definition of intelligent logistics
Intelligent logistics is to make full use of artificial intelligence in all aspects of logistics to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and meet the increasing customer demands to the greatest extent.
There are multiple links involved in intelligent logistics, including transportation, loading and unloading, storage, packaging, distribution processing, picking and distribution, etc. Among them, “picking” is different from general types of storage methods.
Therefore, to understand what intelligent logistics is, it is necessary to verify whether artificial intelligence is introduced into these seven typical links. As long as artificial intelligence technology is adopted in some links, it can be called an intelligent logistics system to certain degrees.
From the aspect of perception, the current “RFID technology, GIS technology, GPS technology, etc” all provide basic technologies for intelligent logistics, but they are far from being regarded as “intelligent”. As such, we can see that some judgments based on big data or the principle of optimization are similar to artificial intelligence. Route optimization is a perfect example for this. However, in fact, it is still a rule-based behavior, which is closely related with automation, so it is not intelligent logistics in its true sense.
Carrier of Intelligent Logistics
- AGV
AGV can be self-guiding based on signals and choose routes according to the obstacles it encounters. This is an automated system without artificial intelligence. However, it should be noted that systems based on natural navigation, such as autopilot, do have something to do with artificial intelligence.
- Drone
Drones are similar to AGVs except that they can fly.
- Robot
Currently, robot is a hot spot in the field of logistics research. A variety of robots are widely used in logistics systems. However, the robot itself does not have the characteristics of artificial intelligence. Instead, it is just a typical automation system, and its assistance with people’s work is very limited, including simple assembly, palletizing, etc.
- Turnover box with RFID
It is regarded as a smart vehicle, which can be automatically identified. In the future, the first step of intelligent logistics is to identify all equipment and goods involved, during which RFID is indispensable.
- AS/RS
AS/RS is a typical piece of automation equipment. It can complete the operation of warehousing and outbound under the command of computers.
As the carrier of intelligent logistics, we have every reason to believe that all the above technologies and equipment are indispensable components of intelligent logistics.
Artificial intelligence - a long way to go
There is no need for us to stick to the definition of artificial intelligence and understand the concept of "intelligent logistics" mechanically. There are many vague definitions in our daily life, such as smart phones, which have made great progress in many aspects compared with the traditional ones, such as Internet access.
In addition, artificial intelligence needs to be achieved step by step. We should continuously do research in pursuit of true artificial intelligence. In this process, we can gradually understand the significance of artificial intelligence and enjoy the great benefits it brings to human beings.
