Underground Logistics System

… Underground Logistics System (ULS) is a promising mode of freight transportation for the future. It is expected to address conventional city logistics … with the metro system is a current …

Abstract An urban underground logistics system (ULS) is one important means of solving urban traffic problems that has unique advantages. Freight transportation in China requires a new transportation mode. Therefore, ULS has garnered increasing attention. However, to date, few scholars and practitioners have investigated ULS in China. Although ULS shows good development opportunities, it also faces great challenges. Based on the Macro-environment and situation analysis (PEST-SWOT) model, which is a strategic analysis method that combines both SWOT and PEST to effectively identify advantages, disadvantages, opportunities and threats, this paper first uses PEST to analyze the macro-environment of ULS in China and identify its internal factors (i.e., advantages and disadvantages) and external factors (i.e., opportunities and threats). Next, based on the SWOT framework, this paper proposes several development strategies and recommendations that provide a comprehensive and novel perspective to the study of ULS in China.

The lack of practical application and accurate benefit analysis, which are the prerequisites for each other, make it difficult to implement and promote the underground logistics system (ULS), although in theory people always recognize its advantages in sustainable improvement of urban transportation and logistics. This paper attempts to use the system dynamics (SD) method, based on the real-world simulation, to analyze the quantitative relationship between the implementation strategy of ULS and the sustainability of urban transportation and logistics to solve this problem. Beijing city, China, was selected as the empirical background. Four ULS implementation strategies were proposed according to the city’s potential investment in ULS and its demand for ULS network capacity. Meanwhile, four representative indicators were selected to evaluate the simulation results, including the average speed of the road networks in the peak hour, congestion loss, delivery travel time in the peak hour and the PM emissions of the truck. Good fitting index of historical data shows the validity of the model. Simulation results show that ULS, as a supplement to the urban integrated transport system, can significantly improve urban traffic and logistics. This study provides a perspective in the systematic and quantitative analysis of ULS to support the urban sustainable development.

… Underground logistics systems (ULSs) are a set of selfcontained, multimodal, and … Planning and application of underground logistics systems in new cities … Underground Space …

Abstract Underground logistics systems (ULSs) has been an important topic and research hotspot for urban underground space use in China, especially for implementation in new cities and districts, as it is a necessary element to be considered for city underground space planning. Since these newly planned areas will face many challenges, including increasing logistics volume, spatial constraints etc. if we use the existing freight transport modes similar to old cities. Furthermore, the rapid developments of Chinese new cities provides an opportunity to implement innovative ULS freight transport systems and technology that are efficient and sustainable. Recently, ULS has been included officially in the planning and study for Beijing’s Sub-Center, the Yangtze River Demonstration District and other new cities and districts. However, the real value of ULS will not materialize unless it is successfully implemented. This paper presents the exploration, observations and findings of a few proposed ULS planning and research works in the new districts mentioned. The suitability of goods and freight types in ULS, logistic flow demand forecasting and ULS network systems integrated with underground metro or infrastructure are discussed. Both dedicated and integrated ULS network systems are also compared and analyzed. Despite the many advantages, many challenges and difficulties remain in the planning integration, technology adaptation and implementation of ULSs in new districts and cities, thus, interdisciplinary collaborations is one of the key success factors to ensure ULS can be brought to fruition.

Abstract With the rapid development of China’s ports, the growth of port throughput has led to a large increase in the amount of hinterland container transportation, causing traffic congestion and significant vehicle emissions. While a port promotes the prosperity of a city, the contradiction between the expansion of urban space and the land use required for ports has become more serious. The underground logistics system (ULS) provides a good technical option for solving these problems. Because of the large-scale projects that the ULS undertakes and the major investment required to conduct these projects, it is important to study the impact of ULS from the perspective of the urban transportation system. In this paper, an empirical method is proposed to assess the impact of the ULS on the state of traffic and the issue of emissions from the perspective of the urban road network; the specific research area is the ULS from Waigaoqiao Port to the Jiading District in Shanghai. Using highway toll data, traffic flow data, and traffic survey data, a traffic analysis model and an emissions model are established. These models are used to analyze the changes in traffic flows and emissions in the urban road network before and after the construction of the ULS. The analysis results show that the ULS can account for 27.0% of the highway transportation of containers from Waigaoqiao Port. After the construction of the ULS, the container traffic volume of the expressway segments near Waigaoqiao Port decreased by more than 20%, the emissions on most parts of Outer Ring Expressway dropped 16%–28%, and the emissions on expressways parallel to the ULS decreased 20%–40%. The empirical method proposed in this study can be considered as references for the benefit assessment of the ULS for container transportation.

Underground logistics system (ULS) tends to alleviate traffic congestion, increase city logistics efficiency, mitigate the negative effects of traditional logistics processes, and improve the sustainability of urban areas. However, the relatively high cost and risk of underground construction are serious obstacles to implementing ULS. Integrating ULS into modern metro system (M-ULS) is considered to be feasible and efficient to solve this problem. This paper aims at developing a metro system-based ULS network planning method. First, an evaluation model of underground freight volume was proposed considering service capacity, freight flow, and regional accessibility. Second, a set of mixed integer programming model was developed to solve the problem of optimal nodes’ location-allocation (LAP) in the network. Then, a hybrid algorithm was designed with a combination of E-TOPSIS, exact algorithm, and heuristic algorithm. Finally, two lines of Nanjing Metro were selected as a case to validate the proposed planning method. The results showed that the new system can significantly reduce the construction costs of ULS and alleviate traffic congestion. Moreover, the potential of metro stations and underground tunnels can be fully exploited to achieve higher logistics benefits.

Utilizing rail transit system for collaborative passenger-and-freight transport is a sustainable option to conquer urban congestion. This study proposes effective modeling and optimization techniques for planning a city-wide metro-based underground logistics system (M-ULS) network. Firstly, a novel metro prototype integrating retrofitted underground stations and newly-built capsule pipelines is designed to support automated inbound delivery from urban logistics gateways to in-city destinations. Based on four indicators (i.e. unity of freight flows, regional accessibility, environmental cost-saving, and order priority), an entropy-based fuzzy TOPSIS evaluation model is proposed to select appropriate origin-destination flows for underground freight transport. Then, a mixed integer programming model, with a well-matched solution framework combining multi-objective PSO algorithm and A* algorithm, are developed to optimize the location-allocation-routing (LAR) decisions of M-ULS network. Finally, real-world simulation based on Nanjing metro case is conducted for validation. The best facility configurations and flow assignments of the three-tier M-ULS network are reported in details. Results confirm that the proposed algorithm has good ability in providing high-quality Pareto-optimal LAR decisions. Moreover, the Nanjing M-ULS project shows strong economic feasibility while bringing millions of Yuan of annual external benefit to the society and environment.

With the burden of city transportation system becoming bigger and bigger, it is imperative to develop reliable and efficient underground logistics. The appropriate location of cargo transshipment centers in underground logistics system is selected using the Set Covering Problem Model, Weighted Set Covering Problem Model, and the reasonable prediction of the freight volume data of major cities to ensure the maximum numbers of service nodes are covered by the least transshipment centers within a reasonable range. The timing of the construction of facilities in the system is proposed, considering the construction cost and cost recovery period of the underground logistics system. The design and optimization plan of the urban underground logistics system, based on the above, is given to achieve the purpose of relieving urban traffic congestion and increasing freight volume.

Sustainable urban development relies on forward-looking infrastructure development. As an emerging infrastructure system that incorporates green technologies, the Metro-based Underground Logistics System (M-ULS) enables sustainable transportation of passengers and freight within cities collaboratively by sharing rail transit network facilities. M-ULS can effectively save non-renewable energy and reduce pollution to the ecological environment, and the comprehensive benefits of the system make an outstanding contribution to sustainable urban development. The purpose of this study is to provide a systematic review of M-ULS based on different perspectives and to present the development of the M-ULS network integration concept. By employing bibliometric analysis, the four dimensions of M-ULS related literature are statistically analyzed to discover the knowledge structure and research trends. Through thematic discussions, a development path for developing the concept of M-ULS network integration was established. The main findings of this study are summarized as follows: (i) A comparative analysis shows that the metro system has a high potential for freight use; (ii) Improvements in metro freight technologies are conducive to urban economy, environment, and social sustainability; (iii) Network expansion is an inevitable trend for implementing underground logistics based on the metro; (iv) The interaction among public sectors, metro operators, logistics corporations, and users plays a critical role in promoting the development of M-ULS. (v) It is worth mentioning that the planning of green infrastructure should fully consider its comprehensive contribution to the sustainable development of the city. This study visualizes the current status and hotspots of M-ULS research. It also discloses frontier knowledge and novel insights for the integrated planning and operations management of metro and urban underground freight transportation.

The surging demand for logistics systems brought about by the vigorous development of e-commerce makes urban traffic more and more congested. The need for a sustainable transition in terms of urban transportation infrastructure also encourages the further innovation of logistics systems. The urban underground logistics system (ULS) emerges as a promising alternative for realizing efficient large-scale freight distribution in megacities. However, there are relatively few studies that have explored the factors that determine the uptake of ULSs in practice. This paper thus aims to identify the critical success factors of ULSs throughout project life cycle stages. Firstly, a desktop study and a study using the Delphi method were conducted to extract the critical success factors (CSFs) of ULS projects. Secondly, a questionnaire survey was conducted to collect data on the perceived significance of the selected success factors from ULS professionals. Thirdly, the intergroup comparison of the significance of CSFs and exploratory factory analysis were used to ascertain the critical factors and latent determinants influencing the development of ULS projects. In total, 36 CSFs in the four life cycle stages of ULS projects were finalized. The identified factors represent the seven latent determinants in developing a ULS project, namely, overall feasibility and acceptance of the ULS, prototype system, and business model, competence and resources for ULS construction and operation, station layout and intermodal transportation, government policies and incentives, long-term planning of the underground space and logistics network, and market investigation and forecasting. The research findings of the paper help guide practitioners and policy makers on decisions made during ULS planning and construction and provide a reference performance evaluation framework for ULS projects.

Along with the development of underground space and the increasing maturity of automation technology, a new type of transport and supply system called “Underground Logistics System (ULS)” is gradually gaining attention in various countries as an effective means of solving the problem of urban traffic congestion. However, the high cost and risk of underground construction are the main factors that have led to ULS remaining in the theoretical stage for the time being. Therefore, the paper aims to design a solution for implementing a metro-based underground logistics system (M-ULS). Firstly, the paper uses the K-mean clustering algorithm and genetic algorithm for path planning of conventional ground transportation and M-ULS. Secondly, the article is a retrofitting design for a site that combines the metro with an underground logistics system and simulates the underground logistics nodes with the help of AnyLogic simulation software. Finally, the paper explores the economic and environmental value of M-ULS in terms of carbon emissions, time costs, fuel costs, and environmental pollution costs. The research provides a solution to alleviate urban traffic congestion, reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainable urban development.

ABSTRACT Developing a metro-based underground logistics system (M-ULS) to integrate freight activities into passenger rail transit networks is a sustainable option to improve urban traffic and mobility. This paper proposes innovative concepts for M-ULS prototypes. The system design uses knowledge from engineering practice, emerging initiatives, literature, and experts’ viewpoints. First, demand flows, hierarchies, and facility features of an M-ULS network are described, based on which the collaborative mechanism of shared metro passenger-goods transport, along with specialised packing and transportation strategies, are modelled and compared. Both overground and underground measures are envisaged for last-mile deliveries from metro to customers. Second, a hierarchical framework incorporating 37 key technologies that are necessary for M-ULS development is organised and evaluated. Third, interior layout schemes of a specific interchange metro station with logistics functions are designed. Underground space partitions at the platform layer and the station hall layer are visualised. The logistics workflows of the station are described in full. Evidence from literature and surveys indicates that the proposed M-ULS models are technically feasible, and their advantages and disadvantages are clear. This study contributes to providing a holistic decision support tool for the future planning and design of M-ULS and other rail-based freight transportation systems.

This paper develops a location optimization method about the metro-based underground logistics system (MULS) to transport freight by metro during off-peak periods. First, we make qualitative and quantitative feasibility analysis of the MULS through questionnaires and field surveys in metro stations. The analysis result shows that more than 85.22% of interviewees support logistics delivery by the metro. An improved $p$ -median model is developed, which considers four influencing factors. The shortest path algorithm is used to minimize the transport costs while the costs of the remaining factors are calculated using the collected data. Then, the Voronoi diagram is adopted to optimize the location of candidate metro stations and redraw the logistics service scope by adding weighted terms. Finally, the Nanjing metro is chosen as a case study to validate the effectiveness of the developed method. The optimization result shows the total cost of the logistics delivery is reduced by 33. 27% suggesting that the method can be used to reduce logistics costs and improve delivery efficiency in urban areas.

The global outbreak of COVID-19 has further exposed deficiencies in city logistics based on human and ground roads, such as poor emergency response capacity and high risk of infection during transportation. Metro-based underground logistics system (M-ULS) may be an innovative approach to deal with this city-level disaster due to its efficient operation, contactless and driverless characteristics. However, the market evolution process and the quantitative calculation framework of comprehensive benefits after the application of M-ULS are still unclear, which has become a problem of mutual restriction with the extensive application of M-ULS. This paper attempts to use the system dynamics method, based on the real-world simulation, to analyze the quantitative relationship between the M-ULS implementation and the city logistics performance under epidemic outbreaks. Wuhan city in China was selected as the empirical background, and five simulation scenarios were set under different implementation strategies of M-ULS in response to the epidemic. Six variables were selected to measure city logistics performance and M-ULS operation status, including demand fill-rate, unit delivery time, total deprivation cost, total transportation cost, total number of susceptible people, and utilization rate of M-ULS. The results show that M-ULS is effective in improving the performance of city logistics and responding to the epidemic. The delivery time and transportation cost have a strong impact on the market share of M-ULS. Finally, a set of incentive policies was designed to promote the adoption of M-ULS. The findings not only provide a method for evaluating the overall performance of M-ULS, but also provide a unique perspective for promoting the implementation of M-ULS and responding to the transportation challenges brought by the epidemic.

Underground logistics system (ULS) is recognized as sustainable alleviator to road-dominated urban logistics infrastructure with various social and environmental benefits. The purpose of this study is to propose effective modeling and optimization method for planning a hub-and-spoke ULS network in urban region.,Underground freight tunnels and the last-mile ground delivery were organized as a hierarchical network. A mixed-integer programming model (MIP) with minimum system cost was developed. Then a two-phase optimization schema combining Genetic-based fuzzy C-means algorithm (GA-FCM), Depth-first-search FCM (DFS-FCM) algorithm and Dijkstra algorithm (DA), etc. was designed to optimize the location-allocation of ULS facilities and customer clusters. Finally, a real-world simulation was conducted for validation.,The multistage strategy and hybrid algorithms could efficiently yield hub-and-spoke network configurations at the lowest objective cost. GA-FCM performed better than K-means in customer-node clustering. The combination of DFS-FCM and DA achieved superior network configuration than that of combining K-means and minimum spanning tree technique. The results also provided some management insights: (1) greater scale economies effect in underground freight movement could reduce system budget, (2) changes in transportation cost would not have obvious impact on ULS network layout and (3) over 90% of transportation process in ULS network took place underground, giving remarkable alleviation to road freight traffic.,Demand pairs among customers were not considered due to lacking data. Heterogeneity of facilities capacity parameters was omitted.,This study has used an innovative hybrid optimization technique to address the two-phase network planning of urban ULS. The novel design and solution approaches offer insights for urban ULS development and management.

Abstract To relieve the ground traffic pressure caused by container trucks in a port, an underground container logistics system (UCLS) between Shanghai Waigaoqiao Terminal and Jiading Northwest Logistics Park is proposed. Furthermore, in order to guarantee the connection between the UCLS and the yard behind the ground terminal, a design of an underground parking lot in the system is also proposed. The underground parking lot is a buffer used for the loading and unloading of underground guided vehicles (UGVs). A mixed integer nonlinear programming model (MNIP) for UGVs and yard cranes in the underground system is formulated to minimize the total cost of UGVs waiting and yard cranes. Then, the optimization model is solved via MATLAB software. With sensitivity analysis, the number of loading and unloading points in the underground parking lot is optimized for the purpose of minimizing the total cost. Finally, a simulation experiment is carried out to obtain the optimal configuration of the number of loading and unloading points and the arrival rate in the UCLS.

Abstract In order to alleviate the traffic congestion inside the port cities caused by container transportation, the underground logistics system (ULS) is considered in this paper to solve the container transportation problem. By establishing port-convergence-station, the connection between the ULS and the port is realized. Specifically, the paper describes the internal layout and floor space of the port-convergence-station. Meanwhile, a robust optimization model is established to deal with the uncertainties of the carrying capacity of an ULS. Moreover, a case study based on Waigaoqiao Port Area to Logistics Park in Jiading is conducted to intuitively solve the robust optimization model to obtain the appropriate location of the port-convergence-station. And the effectiveness of establishing ULS and port-convergence-stations in the case is verified by simulation to illustrate the congestion problem in the container port area.

As a new mode of transportation, the underground logistics system (ULS) has become one of the solutions to the problems of environmental pollution and traffic congestion. Considering the environmental and economic factors in urban logistics, this paper conducts comprehensive design and optimization research on the network nodes and passages of urban underground logistics and proposes a relatively complete framework for a sustainable underground logistics network. A hybrid method is proposed, which includes the set cover model used to perform the first location of urban underground logistics nodes, the fuzzy clustering method applied to classify the located logistics nodes into the first-level and second-level nodes considering the congestion in different urban areas of the city and a mixed integer programming model proposed to optimize and design the underground logistics passage to find optimal passage parameters at every underground logistics node. Based on the above hybrid method, a sustainable underground logistics network framework including all-levels logistics nodes and passages is formed, with a subdistrict of Nanjing as a case study. The discussion of results shows that this underground logistics network framework proposal is very effective in reducing logistics time cost, exhaust emission and congestion cost. It provides support for decisions in the design and development of urban sustainable underground logistics networks.

Research on the underground logistics system (ULS) has been carried out for nearly 30 years, but the description of the global research network, research trends, and the discussion of advanced theories and practices have not been systematically reviewed so far. The concept of public freight has expanded a new development direction: metro-based underground logistics system (M-ULS). The purpose of this paper is to analyze this new model by taking underground logistics and public freight as the research object. We performed statistical analyses of 222 references and constructed three kinds of visualized bibliographic information experiments for regional collaboration, authorship collaboration, and keywords co-occurrence. Based on the scientometrics results, the evolution path of the literature evolution was drawn. We used cluster-analysis-based taxonomy to structure the recent relevant literature. According to the comprehensive review, the research stays in the theoretical research stage, mainly focusing on system concept and planning, traffic organization, and network operation. There is still a lack of discussion on engineering quantification and application implementation. Finally, this study highlights some brief ideas, discussions, and potential suggestions for future research. This bibliometric research is expected to provide researchers and practitioners with a panoramic description and in-depth understanding of ULS and M-ULS research.

Abstract Today, transportation of freight by trucks and vans faces congestion within most of the urbanized areas around the world, making supply chains less efficient and causing air pollution, noise, reducing traffic safety and also contributing to climate change. Underground freight transport (UFT) can be an alternative for, but also an addition to existing transport modes for freight, like road, rail and waterborne. It combines the advantages of taking the traffic movements underground and applying electrical (or linear induction) propulsion, with a lower (local) environmental burden and the economic advantages of unimpeded automated transport over a dedicated infrastructure that is separated from passenger traffic. Through the years, initiatives haven been taken to develop underground freight transport systems for different purposes in the USA, Europe and Asia. This paper describes the different initiatives, the benefits and costs and the type of applications. The paper ends with the conclusion that UFT is ready to be implemented but there are points of attention. We are dealing with a process of prolonged efforts on the part of the government and the private sector, which requires long-term commitment and high financial resources.

Abstract Transport systems play an essential role in urban, economic and social development. Utilising underground space for transport is a continuing trend across the globe during past decades. Underground transport systems have been chosen by cities as potential solutions for solving urbanisation problems such as traffic congestion, land shortage, and noise and air pollution. This paper provides an overview of five main forms of underground transport: underground railway systems, underground car parks, urban underground roads and expressways, underground freight transport systems and underground pedestrian systems. In each case the overview explores their origins, development, advantages and challenges, as well as other research foci. The paper then discusses key policy challenges for underground transport systems and provides recommendations for future research.

… Underground freight transport is investigated in the Netherlands as a systems innovation for freight transport. The objective is to achieve a sustainable and ef®cient transport system for …

… The OLS-ASH project will be used to discuss and illustrate underground freight transportation as … interesting research and developments on automated freight transportation systems. …

AbstractAlleviating the pressure due to increasing freight transportation traffic by using low-emission and innovative transportation methods can reduce a number of problems, such as transportation...

… The spatial distribution of transport is influenced by underground freight transport systems, … shift to underground freight systems will have a positive effect. Finally, with regard to transport …

The use of underground freight transportation (UFT) is gaining attention because of its ability to quickly move freight to locations in urban areas while reducing road traffic and the need for delivery drivers. Since packages are transported through the tunnels by electric motors, the use of tunnels is also environmentally friendly. We examine the use of tunnels to transport individual orders, motivated by the last‐mile delivery of goods from e‐commerce providers. The use of UFT for last‐mile delivery requires more complex network planning than for direct lines that have previously been considered for networks connecting large cities. We introduce a new network design problem based on this delivery model and transform the problem into a fixed‐charge multicommodity flow problem with additional constraints. We show that this problem, the B$$ B $$ ‐UFT, is NP‐hard, and provide an exact solution method for solving large‐scale instances. Our Benders decomposition‐based solution approach exploits the combinatorial sub‐structures of the problem in a cutting planes fashion. We provide computational results for real urban environments to build a set of insights into the structure of such networks and evaluate the benefits of such systems. We estimate the costs for implementing UFT systems and break them down into a per‐package cost. Our estimates indicate at least a 40% cost savings from using a UFT over traditional delivery models. This indicates that UFT systems for last‐mile delivery are a promising area for future research.

AbstractDespite the increases in freight transportation demand, options for increasing capacity of the overground freight transportation infrastructure system are limited. This paper investigated t...

… the introduction of freight transportation into the passenger transit network, underground city … due to truck movements in urban freight transport. Furthermore, some metro lines suffer from …

Abstract Preventing environmental deterioration and alleviating traffic congestion are becoming urgent problems in urban and transportation planning. Alleviating the pressure from increasing freight transportation traffic via low-emission and innovative transportation methods can reduce problems such as transportation network capacity limits and environmental pollution and contribute to the development of resource-efficient and sustainable cities in the future. Underground freight transportation systems (UFTSs) can improve service quality and transportation efficiency in urban logistics and alleviate traffic congestion and associated problems such as energy consumption and air pollution. Previous studies on urban UFTSs have focused mostly on technical feasibility and policy requirements. Studies providing a quantitative analysis of the effects of introducing a UFTS on an existing transportation network are scarce. In this study, the main goal is to create a quantitative method to analyze the effects of introducing a UFTS on the performance of a transportation network. Thus, a multi-objective programming model of an integrated aboveground-underground transportation network that considers transportation cost, time, and emissions is created. The Yangshan port in Shanghai, China is used as an example to assess whether a UFTS can significantly reduce the cost, time, distance and emissions of the aboveground freight container transportation. The weights on three objective functions are varied to analyze their effects on the solution. These results provide a reference for optimizing freight distribution plans when a UFTS is constructed and for implementing integrated aboveground-underground transportation systems in the future.

… This research examines the integration of intermodal freight transport within Switzerland’s … a proposed innovative underground logistics system. Using the Swiss Transport Outlook 2050 …

… Underground freight transportation is a class of automated transportation systems in which vehicles carry freight through tunnels or pipelines under roadways between intermodal …

… is carried out on the underground freight transport (UFT) system… congestion and improvement of freight accessibility; and less … of freight distribution productivity and reduction of freight …

… To avoid road congestion, we are developing a highly automated underground transport system using automatic guided vehicles (AGVs) around Schiphol Airport. It is unique in its scale…

In response to increasing congestion and inefficiencies in urban freight transportation systems, driven by the rapid rise of e-commerce and urbanization, underground logistics are emerging as a promising alternative. This study introduces the Vehicle Routing Problem with Underground Transportation (VRP-UT), a novel model that integrates traditional vehicle routing with underground logistics facilities to optimize urban deliveries. To address the model’s complexity, we propose a hybrid solution approach that combines Q-learning with pruning techniques, enhancing route optimization and minimizing unnecessary operations. Comprehensive numerical and sensitivity analyses further validate the model’s effectiveness, positioning VRP-UT as a scalable and efficient solution to meet growing urban logistics demands while supporting sustainable development. A case study, including sensitivity analysis based on Seoul Subway Line 3, demonstrates the practical applicability of the VRP-UT model, highlighting its potential to alleviate surface-level traffic congestion, reduce operational costs, and shorten delivery times in densely populated urban areas.

… Underground logistics system (ULS) can effectively mitigate the negative effects of … of urban freight flows through a fully automated and networked underground infrastructure. Although …

… a new logistic control approach. This paper provides new concepts for logistic con:rol of highly automated … Furthermore, some novel characteristics of logistic control are described. The …

The logistics transportation system is critical to the United States economy. Underground Logistics Transportation (ULT) is a class of automated transportation systems in which vehicles carry freight through pipelines and tunnels between terminals. Being able to use a part of the underground space of existing highways will greatly facilitate the construction of such pipelines and tunnels and reduce their construction costs. Underground Logistics Transportation (ULT) could be the answer to make freight transport more sustainable and competitive. Texas highways and railroads are expected to increase by nearly 207% from 2003 to 2030. Truck tonnage will grow by 251%, while rail tonnage is forecasted to increase 118%. The number of trucks carrying NAFTA goods will increase by 263%, and the number of rail units will grow by 195%. This will have a profound impact on the highway and rail systems. The objective of this paper is to present requirements and operational components for three types of ULT lines: standard shipping containers, a standard crate size, and a standard pallet size. This study examines the use of ULT as a mode of underground transportation with the help of three case studies. This research shows that ULT is financially viable, feasible, greener, cost effective, and can become an important part of intermodal freight mobility.

… In this paper, a kind of underground passage automated … automated freight transport system, the allocation of the transportation equipment, the comprehensive design of underground …

The challenges arising from the management of municipal solid waste (MSW) have a profound impact on the sustainable development of urban areas. As a sustainable solution, the transportation of MSW underground offers the potential to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce environmental pollution. In this study, we propose the implementation of a large-scale underground waste collection system (UWCS). To begin, a comprehensive operational process for the UWCS is designed based on an intelligent technology system, including facility operation, processing workflow, and technical parameters. Additionally, network planning methods for the UWCS are presented. A mixed-integer linear programming model is formulated with the objective of minimizing total cost. This model determines the optimal location and allocation of nodes within the network, as well as the pipeline layout and flow direction. Given the computational complexity, a hybrid optimization method, namely the genetic greedy algorithms and genetic variable neighborhood search algorithms (GGA-GVNS), is devised to obtain high-quality solutions for the model. Finally, to validate the efficacy of the proposed method, a simulation is conducted in the central city of Nanjing, China. The results demonstrate that the implementation of the UWCS network in Nanjing’s city center can yield an annual benefit of USD 5.99 million. Moreover, a sensitivity analysis reveals further MSW management-related insights and long-term planning strategies.

During peak periods when containers enter a port through underground logistics channels, the automatic stacking cranes (ASCs) on the inbound side of the yard may experience excessive operational workload, resulting in an imbalance in workloads between the dual ASCs, which decreases the operational efficiency of the yard. To enhance the operational efficiency of the underground container logistics rear yard, this article investigates the selection of relay bay positions for dual ASCs. Taking into account various influencing factors in practical operations, a relay bay selection model for ASCs is established, with the objectives of minimizing the waiting time of automated guided vehicles and the completion time of ASCs. A Markov decision process is constructed to address this problem, and a deep Q-learning algorithm was developed to solve the model. Experimental results indicate that adopting dual ASC relay operations can improve the operational efficiency of inbound ASCs by approximately 28%.

… above ground – goods underground” and proposes to transport freight in small units via a new tunnel network. At the final stage, the entire network will comprise a tunnel system with a …

The underground logistics system is a relatively new concept for container transportation, which is designed to reduce the congestion and pollution on the road caused by the sharply growing number of collections and distributions of containers in the port cities. This paper considers a system where some underground logistics vehicles (ULVs) are marshaled and used to transport containers between two port terminals through a deep underground tunnel. Automated guided vehicles (AGVs) are used for horizontal transportation of containers in the above-ground yard of the terminals, and yard cranes (YCs) are used to transfer the containers vertically through a shaft linking the above-ground yard and the deep underground tunnel. To guarantee the efficiency of this system, a joint scheduling problem of the YCs and the ULVs is proposed and formulated as an integer programming model to minimize the total waiting time of the YCs and ULVs. Taking marshaling and congestion of the ULVs into consideration, a Genetic Algorithm is developed to solve the problem. Numerical experimental results prove the efficiency of the proposed algorithm, and different marshaling strategies are compared. Our research provides a scientific foundation for developing underground logistics systems in large port cities.

An underground logistics system (ULS), also referred to as an underground freight transportation system, is defined as an unmanned, automated, and intermodal form of logistic transportation utilizing a network of pipelines to transport cargo between intermodal terminals. A linear induction motor propulsion system moves the vehicles carrying the cargo over rails through the network of pipes. The networks are built utilizing various construction technologies that are trenchless on available right-of-way (ROW) or under-existing facilities. The objective of this paper is to discuss several construction options to facilitate construction of an ULS, such as pipe jacking, utility tunneling, and microtunneling, as well as to present a theoretical case study to show the social and environmental benefits of ULS, such as air pollution reduction, relief of traffic congestion, and providing job opportunities for disconnected youth and disadvantaged communities. The framework discussed in this paper shows how underground pipelines can be used in ULS to promote efficient and healthy land use, create environmentally safe communities, decrease fossil fuel consumption, and provide significant socioeconomic benefits. Local and municipal governments can utilize the concepts discussed herein as a frame of reference to successfully adopt it for similar innovative transportation and underground projects to improve mobility through buried pipelines.

… (as de ned here) is that in tubes general cargo will be transported, stowed in ‘vehicles’. … underground system includes the depth of the tunnel (the depth below the surface), the tunnel …

… goods underground through the tunnel toward small inner-city hubs, where environmentally-friendly vehicles such as cargo … (i) Survey papers on underground traffic in …

… performed are limited to the handling of the containers and not the cargo they contain. … containers through the underground systems using the underground pipeline (or tunnel) as one of …

… deployment of underground logistical infrastructure to facilitate cargo exchange between … and operational modalities of underground node and tunnel facilities in accordance with …

… With accelerating urbanization, subterranean logistics systems play a critical role in … and enhancing logistics efficiency, emphasizing the need to optimize urban underground logistics …

With the rapid acceleration of global urbanization and the advent of smart city initiatives, large metropolises confront the dual challenges of surging logistics demand and constrained surface transportation resources. Traditional surface logistics networks struggle to support sustainable urban development in high-density areas due to traffic congestion, high carbon emissions, and inefficient last-mile delivery. This paper addresses the layout optimization of a hub-and-spoke underground space logistics system (ULS) network for smart cities under stochastic scenarios by proposing an immune-inspired multi-objective particle swarm optimization (IS-MPSO) algorithm. By integrating a stochastic robust Capacity–Location–Allocation–Routing (CLAR) model, the approach concurrently minimizes construction costs, maximizes operational efficiency, and enhances underground corridor load rates while embedding probability density functions to capture multidimensional uncertainty parameters. Case studies in Beijing’s Fifth Ring area demonstrate that the IS-MPSO algorithm reduces the total objective function value from 9.8 million to 3.4 million within 500 iterations, achieving stable convergence in an average of 280 iterations. The optimized ULS network adopts a “ring–synapse” topology, elevating the underground corridor load rate to 59% and achieving a road freight alleviation rate (RFAR) of 98.1%, thereby shortening the last-mile delivery distance to 1.1 km. This research offers a decision-making paradigm that balances economic efficiency and robustness for the planning of underground logistics space in smart cities, contributing to the sustainable urban development of high-density regions and validating the algorithm’s effectiveness in large-scale combinatorial optimization problems.

… This study develops a Two-Stage Robust Optimization (2S-RO) … port region, consisting of 2 logistics parks and 3 container ports with … space utilization and port logistics decarbonization. …

In recent times, there has been a sharp increase in the congestion of ground transportation, the scarcity of land resources, and various disasters. Hence, there is an urgent need to find an effective and sustainable approach to transportation. The construction of an underground logistics network, where transportation activities occur beneath the surface of the ground, is anticipated to emerge as a future trend. This study aims to formulate a resilient-maximizing plan for the underground logistics network, ensuring optimal meeting of transportation demands in the aftermath of ground disasters. Accordingly, a two-stage linear programming model is established to determine the layout plan for the most resilient underground logistics network. The first phase of the model is designed to generate viable layouts for the underground logistics network, while the second phase is dedicated to evaluating the resilience of the proposed layout plan. During the evaluation of network resilience, Monte Carlo simulations are used to simulate disaster scenarios. Given the inherent complexity of the model, the traditional solver cannot efficiently solve the problem. Thus, a new hybrid heuristic algorithm is designed to obtain solutions that maximize network resilience. The results show the effectiveness of the designed algorithm and the significant improvement in network resilience achieved by numerical experiments. Moreover, sensitivity analyses are conducted to reveal the relationships between resilience and budget, as well as resilience and the capacity of underground pipelines. It has a significant impact on sustainability when making decisions regarding network planning.

With the surge in urban logistics demand, traditional surface transportation faces challenges, such as traffic congestion and environmental pollution. Leveraging metro systems in metropolitan areas for both passenger commuting and underground logistics presents a promising solution. The metro-based underground logistics system (M-ULS), characterized by extensive coverage and independent right-of-way, has emerged as a potential approach for optimizing urban freight transport. However, existing studies primarily focus on single-line scenarios, lacking in-depth analyses of multi-tier network coordination and dynamic demand responsiveness. This study proposes an optimization framework based on mixed-integer programming and an improved ICSA to address three key challenges in metro freight network planning: balancing passenger and freight demand, optimizing multi-tier node layout, and enhancing computational efficiency for large-scale problem solving. By integrating E-TOPSIS for demand assessment and an adaptive mutation mechanism based on a normal distribution, the solution space is reduced from five to three dimensions, significantly improving algorithm convergence and global search capability. Using the Nanjing metro network as a case study, this research compares the optimization performance of independent line and transshipment-enabled network scenarios. The results indicate that the networked scenario (daily cost: CNY 1.743 million) outperforms the independent line scenario (daily cost: CNY 1.960 million) in terms of freight volume (3.214 million parcels/day) and road traffic alleviation rate (89.19%). However, it also requires a more complex node configuration. This study provides both theoretical and empirical support for planning high-density urban underground logistics systems, demonstrating the potential of multimodal transport networks and intelligent optimization algorithms.

… ULS, which leverages subterranean networks for the transportation of goods, offer … , play a more substantial role in optimizing the logistics system for higher numbers of customers, likely …

This study investigates a schematic design for underground freight transportation (UFT) system terminals with utilization of pipeline infrastructure. The initial focus of this study was the …

The increasing density of urban populations has spurred interest in utilizing underground space. Underground logistics systems (ULS) are gaining traction due to their effective utilization of this space to enhance urban spatial efficiency. However, research on technological advancements in related fields remains limited. To address this gap, we applied a data-driven approach using patent data related to the ULS to develop a technology roadmap for the field. We employed Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), a machine learning-based topic modeling technique, to categorize and identify six specific technology areas within the ULS domain. Subsequently, we conducted portfolio analytics to pinpoint technology areas with high technological value and to identify the major patent applicants in these areas. Finally, we assessed the technology market potential by mapping the technology life cycle for the identified high-value areas. Among the six technology areas identified, Topic 1 (Underground Material Handling System) and Topic 4 (Underground Transportation System) showed significant patent activity from companies and research institutions in China, the United States, South Korea, and Germany compared to other countries. These areas have the top 10 patent applicants, accounting for 20.8% and 13.6% of all patent applications, respectively. Additionally, technology life cycle analytics revealed a growth trajectory for these identified areas, indicating their rapid expansion and high innovation potential. This study provides a data-driven methodology to develop a technology roadmap that offers valuable insights for researchers, engineers, and policymakers in the ULS industry and supports informed decision-making regarding the field’s future direction.

Highlights What are the main findings? We propose an autonomous driving method for underground rubber-tired vehicles based on light band guidance. The feasibility of the method was validated through model experiments. What is the implication of the main finding? This method is characterized by simplicity, practicality, strong stability, and low cost. The scaled-down model experiments have strong simulation capabilities, and the experiments validated the feasibility of the method, laying the foundation for future large-scale practical applications. Abstract The introduction of autonomous vehicles in underground mine trackless transportation systems can significantly reduce safety risks for personnel in production operations and improve transportation efficiency. Current autonomous mining vehicle technology is characterized by complex algorithms and high deployment costs, which limit its widespread application in underground mines. This paper proposes a light-band-guided autonomous driving method for trackless mining vehicles, where a continuous, digitally controllable light band is installed at the tunnel ceiling to provide uninterrupted vehicle guidance. The light band is controlled by an independent hardware system and uses different colors to indicate vehicle movement status, enabling vehicles to navigate simply by following the designated light trajectory. We designed the necessary hardware and software systems and built a physical model for validation. The system enabled multiple vehicles to be guided simultaneously within the same area to perform diverse transportation tasks according to operational requirements. The model vehicles maintained a safe distance from tunnel walls. In GPS-denied environments, positioning was achieved using dead reckoning and periodic location updates at designated points based on the known light-band trajectory. The proposed method demonstrates high potential for practical applications.

Background: Smart urban logistics has emerged as a key element of sustainable city development, with direct effects on economic performance, environmental quality, and urban livability. Issues with traffic, pollutants, infrastructure strain, and last-mile delivery efficiency have become more pressing due to rapid urbanization and the expansion of e-commerce. In this regard, underground or enclosed corridor-based tube-based freight transit systems have surfaced as a viable smart infrastructure option for automated and low-impact commodities delivery. Methods: This study adopts an analytical literature review complemented by a structured case study analysis to examine the potential role of tube-based freight transport systems in future urban logistics. Key technological concepts, including pneumatic tubes, automated capsule transport, and integration with digital platforms, the Physical Internet, and smart city management systems, are examined through a structured analytical review of the literature. Results: The outcome of the reviewed studies indicates that tube-based systems can contribute to congestion alleviation, emission reduction, and improved delivery reliability by shifting selected freight flows away from surface transport networks. However, governance frameworks, infrastructure integration, and institutional coordination mechanisms continue to have a significant impact on claimed performance outcomes. Conclusions: Tube-based freight systems represent a promising but conditional pathway toward smarter and more sustainable urban logistics. Their large-scale deployment is forced by high capital costs, standardization challenges, regulatory uncertainty, and social acceptance issues. Coordinated investment plans, encouraging legal frameworks, and integrated urban planning techniques in line with smart city goals are needed to overcome these obstacles.

In recent years, underground logistics systems have attracted more and more attention from scholars and are considered to be a promising new green and intelligent transportation mode. This paper proposes a yard design problem considering an underground container logistics system. The structure and workflow of the underground container logistics system are analyzed, and key features are recognized for the yard design problem, such as the container block layout direction, the lane configuration in the yard, and the number of container blocks. We formulate the problem into mathematical models under different scenarios of the key features with the comprehensive objective of maximizing the total throughput and minimizing the total operation cost simultaneously. An improved tabu search algorithm is designed to solve the problem. Experimental results show that the proposed algorithm can generate a satisfactory layout design solution for a real-size instance. Our research studies different container yard design options for introducing the underground logistics system into port terminals, which provides an important scientific foundation for promoting the application of underground container logistics systems.

… Underground Logistics System (M−ULS) is an effective solution for connecting mega-city centers with suburbs and facilitating underground freight … , and hub transshipment capabilities. …

The fast growth of global e-commerce has made cargo transportation and package delivery more important in cities. However, the limited resources for urban road traffic have made urban logistics distribution less efficient. The global movement toward green sustainability, energy conservation, and emission reduction has heightened awareness of the necessity to enhance urban mobility and transportation. This work further investigates the optimization of distribution hub locations based on subway systems, informed by research on urban distribution modes and the current state of underground logistics. This work presents two unique models: a metro-integrated evaluation model and a distribution hub location model, aimed at identifying the ideal subway logistics station and establishing the distribution center with minimal total logistics costs. A heuristic method, the jellyfish search algorithm (JS) in particular, is carefully explained in order to find a good answer for the model. From an empirical perspective, the district of Chaoyang in Beijing, China, was taken as a case to simulate the progress of identifying an ideal metro station as a city distribution hub, aimed at minimizing total logistical costs. The results indicate that the subway system can be used for city deliveries, and the proposed model and method are very useful for improving the location of delivery hubs in the city. Consequently, when subway facilities allow, we should fully utilize the extensive capacity of the subway transit system to enhance the efficient, environmentally friendly, and sustainable advancement of urban logistics.

… within the whole network, we solve the hub-and-spoke network planning problem with … hub nodes. Finally, we take Shanghai as an empirical case study to demonstrate a suitable layout …