Progressive Logistic Science
Corporate Sponsored Research Programs

Solve the issues in the modern logistics industry by scientific methods and advanced technologies

In recent years, while the demand for logistics has rapidly increased due to the rise of e-commerce and the diversification of delivery needs, labor shortages, rising personnel costs, and societal changes such as strengthened compliance and work-style reforms have become major challenges. In this context, labor-saving through automation and unmanned operations, as well as improved efficiency through advanced systems, have become crucial keys to survival for logistics companies. However, the industry still lacks human resources capable of utilizing cutting-edge scientific technologies, and university education in this field remains insufficient.

This research group, established through donations from three major Japanese logistics companies, aims to develop and produce professionals who can build logistics solutions from a scientific standpoint. It promotes comprehensive education on supply chains, advanced technologies useful for solving logistics challenges, and their real-world applications. The curriculum not only covers the application of mathematical sciences to practical logistics issues such as demand forecasting, route optimization, inventory management, and facility location, but also provides opportunities to learn from industry experts and government officials about initiatives being undertaken at logistics sites.

In addition, we conduct research on developing solutions using mathematical methods such as mathematical modeling, optimization algorithms, machine learning, and data analytics to address the myriad challenges facing the logistics sector. Specific areas of focus include supply chain network design, inventory strategy optimization, dynamic routing of delivery trucks, automation of warehouse picking operations, and improving last-mile delivery efficiency. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies, the researchers explore innovative applications like deriving optimal relief supply routes from satellite imagery during natural disasters, and enabling efficient drone-based delivery networks through advanced routing techniques.

We also aim to propose new logistics research methodologies by harnessing emerging technologies such as satellite imagery, drones, and IoT sensors, as well as build fundamental theories to enhance system robustness, scalability and efficiency for next-generation networked logistics systems. Collaborative research projects with industry partners allow for the application of these methods to real-world logistics problems faced by companies, such as consumer behavior analysis, vehicle routing, demand forecasting, and inventory optimization.

As the logistics sector continues to grow in importance, driven by rising e-commerce and changing consumer demands, we strive to leverage insights from the mathematical sciences and cutting-edge technologies to conduct transformative research. By fostering interdisciplinary expertise that combines logistics domain knowledge with quantitative skills, they seek to develop innovative solutions and provide recommendations to address the critical challenges confronting the industry, ultimately enabling more rational, efficient, and sustainable logistics operations.

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