Agent-Based Digital Twins (ABM-Dt) In Synchromodal Transport and Logistics: the Fusion of Virtual and Pysical Spaces

Synchromodality/Synchromodal transport is to support real-time optimal integration of different transport modes and infrastructure in order to induce a modal shift from road to inland waterways and rail. Such an integration will contribute to making modal choices, synchronization of orders and available capacities more dynamic, flexible and acceptable in terms of costs and lead-times. In this regard, new technologies and their real-time inputs have to interact with freight models to support decision makers on a continuous basis. This is why a symbiosis between virtual environments and physical environments is proposed that can bring academic models closer to the end users. The paper demonstrates a first proof-of-concept for long-distance Digital Twin solutions by connecting real-time data feeds from the physical system to a virtual GIS environment that can be utilized in real-time synchromodal deliveries.