| Project Reference: | ITP/079/16LP |
| Project Title: | iPark: Core Technologies of Intelligent Ecommerce Logistics Parks |
| Hosting Institution: | The University of Hong Kong (HKU) |
| Abstract: | In recent years, Ecommerce has developed exponentially in the Greater China region as evidenced by the trading records on Double Singles Day, while logistics which deliver the orders has become a bottleneck. Logistics parks of various scales are emerging in many provinces in Mainland China. But such parks are still operated in a way of traditional logistics, failing to cope with the challenges they are facing. For example, order fulfillment time is long and space utilization is low, especially under fluctuating lumpy demands. One of the most critical factor is the lack of synchronization at three stages: from goods manufacturers to logistics parks; order consolidation within parks and order delivery from the parks to customers. This is particularly serious when multiple stakeholders are involved, processes and operations are complex and demands fluctuate. This project proposes to innovate a suite of core technologies called iPark which will form the foundation for developing a total solution for managing logistics and industrial parks. In addition to our previous R&D achievements in Physical Internet, this project will focus on several key innovations: (1) cloud asset technology will be developed and incorporated including PI enabled base station, smart wearable devices and smart mobile gateway technology; (2) smart buffering, smart crossdocking and smart patrolling technologies will be developed based on cloud asset technology; (3) synchronization and coordination mechanisms (both theories and technologies) for multi-functional, multi-level and heterogeneous assets in a typical Ecommerce distribution center; (4) synchronization tool for supplies of goods from manufacturers to the logistics parks, synchronization tool for order deliveries from the parks to customers and synchronization tool for consolidation operations within logistics park, and (5) cloud services for key stakeholders involved in the core logistics processes and operations of logistics parks. The project will be delivered in two forms. One is the private form for a specific logistics park (or distribution center) or an industrial park or a leading enterprise whose members share iPark services. The other is a public platform that is shared by participating Hong Kong small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that are involved in Ecommerce logistics. Eventually, the platform will be “transplanted” to logistics and industrial parks. iPark is expected to contribute significantly to elevate the logistics services to match the Ecommerce growths. |
| Project Coordinator: | Prof George Q. HUANG |
| Approved Funding Amount: | HK$7.6M |
| Project Period: | 06 Feb 2017 - 05 Feb 2019 |
