Knowledge Sharing in Intermodal Transport: A Multi-Agent Based Perspective

Abstract

Due to the problems of road congestion, environmental concerns and traffic safety, intermodal transport is a significant factor in the movement of freight. Furthermore, knowledge sharing is crucial for efficient coordination in intermodal transport in reducing transit time and cost. However, the discussion of knowledge sharing tools in intermodal transport is few in academia. Therefore, the research for appropriate knowledge sharing tools becomes imperative. In view of the distributed nature of involved actors and knowledge resources in intermodal transport, this paper proposes a multi-agent based perspective for this filed. It designs a multi-agent based knowledge sharing platform (MA-KSP), which identifies four types of agents according to their functions on three layers. In addition, on the basis of activities of intermodal transport, it specifies the knowledge content which is potentially involved in practical applications. Finally, one of the scenarios in intermodal transport illustrates how the MA-KSP works in the real world.