The Application of the EPCglobal Framework Architecture to Autonomous Control in Logistics

In this paper, the authors explore the how the EPCglobal Framework Architecture components can be judged to support autonomous control in logistics. Initially, the paper introduces the problem area, being the field of data integration in the context of autonomous control in logistics. It then reflects the motivation for examining the Electronic Product Code family of standards in this context. Subsequently, the paper introduces the relevant standard components, with a focus on describing the mechanisms which are applicable to the unique identification of logistics entities, the discovery of software services relevant to that identification and the standardised storage of and access to data connected to that identification. It then discusses criteria from literature towards the appraisal of the information layer of autonomously controlled processes as well as differentiating different types of logistics objects required to be considered by that layer. A critical appraisal of the application of the EPCglobal Framework Architecture within the context of autonomous control in logistics concludes the paper.