Continuum approximation models for joint delivery systems using trucks and drones. Issue 4 (20th April 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Li, Yushan; Zhang, Guangzhi; Pang, Zhibo; Li, Lefei
• Is Part Of: Enterprise information systems. Volume 14:Issue 4(2020)
• Page Start: 406
• Page End: 435
• Publication Date: 2020-04-20
• Subjects: Joint delivery system -- drones -- trucks -- continuum approximation -- package delivery; Information storage and retrieval systems -- Periodicals; Management information systems -- Periodicals; Electronic commerce -- Periodicals; 658.4038011
• DOI: 10.1080/17517575.2018.1536928
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-7575

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This research focuses on exploring the economics related to the joint delivery system using trucks and drones. Transportation distances and costs are approximated as simple functions using continuum approximation (CA) methods, which can keep key issues and tradeoffs in focus. The main contribution is to develop cost models using the derived methods and gain a greater understanding of delivery activities by focusing on the tradeoffs between major components, which are valuable for decision-makers: choose economical delivery mode based on customer density, partition service region into optimal sub-regions, and obtain an optimal delivery ratio between trucks and drones.