A classification pattern for autonomous control methods in logistics

Autonomous control in logistics enables single logistics objects to control the production and transportation process. This shift from central planning to decentralized control in real-time offers many possibilities to cope with highly dynamic and complex systems. The algorithms that define the decision behavior of each logistics object, autonomous control methods, play a key role in the successful implementation of autonomous control in logistics systems. A transparent classification is needed in order to identify the basic elements these methods consist of. This classification supports the evaluation of autonomous control methods in terms of gaining knowledge about which method characteristics are responsible for a method’s performance. This paper defines what autonomous control methods are, works out their fundamental characteristics, presents multiple methods developed so far, and compares these methods regarding characteristics and performance.