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Article
A Hybrid Heuristic Algorithm for Maximizing the Resilience
of Underground Logistics Network Planning
Zhaojie Xue 1,2,3 , Yunliang Fang 1,2,3 , Wenxiang Peng 1,2,3, * and Xiangsheng Chen 1,2,3
1 College of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China;
zjxue@szu.edu.cn (Z.X.); 2070474148@email.szu.edu.cn (Y.F.); xschen@szu.edu.cn (X.C.)
2 Key Laboratory of Coastal Urban Resilient Infrastructures (Shenzhen University), Ministry of Education,
Shenzhen 518060, China
3 Underground Polis Academy, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China
* Correspondence: pengwenxiang@126.com
Abstract: In recent times, there has been a sharp increase in the congestion of ground transportation, the
scarcity of land resources, and various disasters. Hence, there is an urgent need to find an effective and
sustainable approach to transportation. The construction of an underground logistics network, where
transportation activities occur beneath the surface of the ground, is anticipated to emerge as a future
trend. This study aims to formulate a resilient-maximizing plan for the underground logistics network,
ensuring optimal meeting of transportation demands in the aftermath of ground disasters. Accordingly,
a two-stage linear programming model is established to determine the layout plan for the most resilient
underground logistics network. The first phase of the model is designed to generate viable layouts for
the underground logistics network, while the second phase is dedicated to evaluating the resilience
of the proposed layout plan. During the evaluation of network resilience, Monte Carlo simulations
are used to simulate disaster scenarios. Given the inherent complexity of the model, the traditional
solver cannot efficiently solve the problem. Thus, a new hybrid heuristic algorithm is designed to obtain
solutions that maximize network resilience. The results show the effectiveness of the designed algorithm
and the significant improvement in network resilience achieved by numerical experiments. Moreover,
sensitivity analyses are conducted to reveal the relationships between resilience and budget, as well as
resilience and the capacity of underground pipelines. It has a significant impact on sustainability when
Citation: Xue, Z.; Fang, Y.; Peng, W.; making decisions regarding network planning.
Chen, X. A Hybrid Heuristic
Algorithm for Maximizing the Keywords: underground logistics network; network layout; network resilience; two-stage linear
Resilience of Underground Logistics programming model; heuristic algorithm
Network Planning. Appl. Sci. 2023, 13,
12588. https://doi.org/10.3390/
app132312588
2. Literature Review
2.1. Underground Logistics Network
Important concepts regarding network topology and the operating model of under-
ground logistics networks have been proposed. Its decisions are grouped into three cate-
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 12588 3 of 18
gories: determining the location, assigning routes, and optimizing vehicle time [15]. The
Netherlands has planned a series of national network projects to transport palletized goods
between major cities; these projects are considered to be a substantial breakthrough for
the underground logistics network [5]. A hydrodynamic calculation and capsule kinetic
analysis model of pipeline capsule movement were established, which provides a theoret-
ical basis for automatic transportation in pipelines [16]. In recent years, the planning of
underground logistics networks has emerged as an academic topic. It focuses primarily
on the following aspects: network layout and optimization, transport line planning and
scheduling of container operations, and subway freight network layout and operation.
Currently, research on the planning of underground logistics networks is focused on layout
and path planning, aiming at the minimum total cost. For example, a hybrid planning
model was proposed to distribute freight between an underground network and maritime
highways to obtain a layout plan for an underground logistics network with the goal of
cost-minimizing [10,17,18]. In addition, some researchers have developed a weighted set
coverage model for node positioning in underground logistics networks aiming at the
lowest total cost [19], while others have developed a planning method based on the subway
system [11]. The locations of the nodes were allocated considering the service capacity,
cargo flow area, and accessibility. In addition, another study established a three-stage
maximum coverage model based on the minimum distance and an entropy weight model
that was solved by a tabu search and greedy algorithm [20].
Recently, a methodology proposed by Hu et al. [21] revolves around optimizing
crucial decisions and considering uncertainties in crafting an integrated urban surface-
underground logistics network. The findings underscore its effectiveness in achieving
a nuanced equilibrium between conservatism and optimality in the intricate domain of
network design. In the domain of container operations and scheduling, Liang et al. [22]
devised a mathematical model aimed at optimizing the configuration and scheduling
of the underground container logistics system. This comprehensive model encompassed
elements such as underground logistics vehicles, gantry cranes for loading and unloading at
wells, and ground-automated guided vehicles. The primary objective was to maximize the
operational efficiency of the container terminal. In a similar vein, Fan et al. [23] developed
a robust optimization model to ascertain appropriate locations for port connecting stations.
This model facilitated the seamless integration of underground logistics systems with ports,
thereby enhancing port operational efficiency and mitigating traffic congestion. However,
in addition to cost, the planning of an underground logistics network also needs to consider
several other factors, such as robustness, fragility, and resilience [24]. Underground logistics
networks face huge sunk costs once they are put into practice. Planning them with high
resistance to disasters is an important aspect to consider in research and engineering
practice, but no relevant studies have been found.
attack, system stress, and exhaustion level [33]. Regarding resilience improvement, current
research has mostly focused on the network structure. For example, studies have proposed
different recovery strategies based on different statuses—increasing network lines as strate-
gies to improve traffic network resilience and considering network connectivity, road traffic
time, accessibility, and effectiveness as resilience indicators [34–36]. In addition, two meth-
ods were proposed to improve the resilience of the network. The first is to improve the
capacity and reliability of key lines, and the second is to change the topology of the network
by considering driving time, shortest path, and other factors [30]. Apart from structural
resilience, resilience to performance is also essential for the network. The ability to maintain
and recover after attacks needs to be considered when assessing performance resilience [37].
Moreover, a parallel can be drawn between the recovery phase in post-disaster logistics
networks and the emphasis on network resilience in this study. Ransikarbum et al. [38]
addressed gaps in modeling the recovery phases of humanitarian logistics post-disasters by
introducing a hybrid approach named HNSGA-II. This approach highlights the trade-off
between fairness and cost in decision-making processes. However, compared to research
on network structural resilience, there are fewer studies on performance resilience.
To address the identified research gaps, this paper focuses on maximizing the resilience
of underground logistics network planning. The contributions of this paper are articulated
as follows:
• Resilience assessment perspective: This study introduces a distinctive approach to
resilience assessment. In contrast to conventional methods centered on structural
resilience through efficiency assessments, our emphasis lies on appraising the network
service level.
• Resilience improvement strategies: Departing from conventional methods that en-
hance resilience through the allocation of resources for disaster supplies and prepared-
ness, we propose improving the resilience of ground logistics networks by constructing
underground networks.
• Network planning perspective: In the planning phase, we not only account for cost
and capacity constraints but also assess the impact of constructing an underground
logistics network on the resilience of the ground network.
3. Problem Modeling
3.1. Problem Description
The underground logistics network is not only highly resistant to disasters but also pro-
vides more alternative routes than on-ground transportation. If the on-ground network is
damaged by typhoons, rainstorms, and other natural disasters, demand can be transported
through an underground logistics network. Therefore, the resilience of the network can be
enhanced and improved. When disasters occur, the best indication of network resilience in
terms of performance is the service level. For transportation networks, service level refers
to how well demand is met, that is, how much of the demand is met relative to the potential
transportation demand. Therefore, we consider the expected demand satisfaction rate of
the network under different disaster scenarios as an indicator of resilience. The satisfaction
rate is a fraction of the actual demand that can be satisfied after a disaster. The formula for
calculating the expected satisfaction rate is as follows:
1
α=
M ∑ w ∈ W
E ∑s∈S dw s /Dw
where Dw is the potential demand for the OD pair w. dw s is the post-disaster maximum
demand that can be satisfied for OD pair w; s is the Monte Carlo disaster scenario; M is the
total number of OD pairs; and α is resilience index.
The Monte Carlo simulation approach, rooted in the concept of utilizing random
sampling to derive numerical results, stands as a potent tool for addressing uncertainty in
logistics network planning. This methodology enables a more resilient evaluation of system
performance across diverse conditions, thereby enhancing decision-making processes.
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 12588 5 of 18
3.3. Notations
• Sets and Parameters:
N, set of ground–underground network nodes, N = {1, 2, 3, . . . . . . . . . , n, n + 1, . . . , 2n}.
N1 , set of ground network nodes, N1 = {1, 2, 3, . . . . . . , n}.
N2 , set of underground candidate nodes, N2 = {n + 1, n + 2, . . . . . . , 2n}.
B, budget for underground network construction.
W, set of OD pairs.
M, total number of OD pairs.
A, set of ground–underground network arcs.
S, set of Monte Carlo disaster scenarios.
Dkl , potential demand of the OD pair kl, where k is the origin node and l is the
destination node.
capi , capacity of the node i.
capij , capacity of an arc (i, j).
b1 , fixed cost of the underground arc construction per kilometer.
b2 , fixed cost of underground node construction.
dij , distance of an arc (i, j).
aij , network–arc indicator (1, if arc (i, j) is in the ground network; 0, otherwise).
eij , network–arc indicator (1, if arc (i, j) is the arc between the ground node and the
corresponding underground node; 0, otherwise).
• Decision variables:
Xi , binary variable indicating whether the underground node i is built (1, if the node i
is built; 0, otherwise).
Yij , binary variable indicating whether the underground arc (i, j) is built (1, if the
arc (i, j) is built; 0, otherwise).
Zijkl , binary variable indicating whether the arc (i, j) is used (1, if the arc (i, j) is used;
0, otherwise) between the OD pair kl.
Fijkl , satisfied flow along the arc (i, j) of OD pair kl.
∑i∈ N2 b1 Xi + ∑i∈ N2 ∑ j ∈ N2
b2 dij Yij ≤ B (2)
i 6= j
∑ j∈N
kl
Zkj ≤ 1, ∀k, l ∈ N1 , k 6= l (7)
j 6= k
∑ i∈N
Zilkl ≤ 1, ∀k, l ∈ N1 , k 6= l (8)
i 6= l
∑ i∈N
Zijkl ≤ 1, ∀k, l ∈ N1 , k 6= l, ∀ j ∈ N, j 6= k, l (9)
i 6= j, l, k
∑ i∈N
Zijkl = ∑ i∈N
Zijkl , ∀k, l ∈ N1 , k 6= l, ∀ j ∈ N, j 6= k, l (10)
i 6= j, l i 6= j, k
∑ i∈N
Fijkl = ∑ i∈N
Fjikl , ∀k, l ∈ N1 , ∀ j ∈ N, k 6= l, j 6= k, j 6= l (16)
i 6= j, l i 6= j, k
∑ j∈N
Fkjkl ≤ Dkl , ∀k, l ∈ N1 , k 6= l (17)
j 6= k
∑ k ∈ N1 ∑ l ∈ N1
Fijkl ≤ capi , ∀i, j ∈ N, i 6= j (18)
k 6= j l 6= k, i
∑ k ∈ N1 ∑ l ∈ N1
Fijkl ≤ cap j , ∀i, j ∈ N, i 6= j (19)
k 6= j l 6= k, i
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 12588 7 of 18
∑ k ∈ N1 ∑ l ∈ N1
Fijkl ≤ capij , ∀i, j ∈ N, i 6= j (20)
k 6= l, j l 6= i
4. Methodology
The model comprises two stages, both of which are binary. Thus, it cannot be solved
directly using linear programming and must be divided into two stages. The first stage is
the outer layer, which is solved by a genetic algorithm (GA) to obtain feasible underground
layout plans, and the best one is selected based on the evaluated results in the second stage.
The second stage is the inner layer, which is solved using a heuristic algorithm to evaluate
the resilience of each plan generated in the first stage for various disaster scenarios. Disaster
scenarios disrupt ground networks, in which the capacities of some arcs are reduced to
different degrees. The arcs that are selected as important arcs of the ground network are
ones that have a significant impact on the network’s resilience if they are disrupted.
The entire solution framework is illustrated in Figure 1. First, all necessary parameters,
such as the arc capacity and node capacity of the underground network, distance, and
budget, are recorded. Second, different underground network layout plans that satisfy
budget constraints are generated by GA. Subsequently, every layout plan combines each
disaster scenario, which is a disrupted ground network, to form a ground–underground
network system. The evaluated results for each layout plan in different disaster scenarios
are obtained by a heuristic resilience evaluation scheme (HRES). The average of these
results is the resilience value of the layout plan. Iteratively, the resilience of the layout plans
is compared so that the most optimal one can be chosen.
Sci. 2023, 13, x FOR PEER REVIEW 8
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 12588 8 of 18
GA
… …
… …
Underground
network layout plan
Actual Scenarios
• Capacity of arcs in
ground network
reduced by disaster
• Capacity of nodes in
ground network
• Demands HRES Best solution
• ……
…
…
Scenarios Generator
Start
Yes
Calculate the individual fitness of
the population
Gen<MAXGEN ?
Yes
No
Output result
End
Figure
Figure GAflowchart.
2.2.GA flowchart.
is constructed, and those with a value of 0 indicate that the arc is not constructed. The
relationship between the arc position and the gene position is shown in Figure 3.
1 2 3 4 … n n+1 ... n(n-1)-1 n(n-1) Arcs
0 0 1 0 … 0 1 ... 1 0 Gens
Figure 3. Position of underground network arcs on the chromosome diagram.
A B
Figure 4.
Figure 4. GA crossover diagram.
1 ... diagram.
GA crossover
0 0 1 1 ... 0 ...
Offspring 2
The mutation method is described in Figure 5. It changes the value of a randomly
selected gene segment in the chromosomes to ensure the diversity of the population and
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 12588 11 of 18
0 1 ... 0 0 0 1 ... 0 0 1 1
1 1 ... 1 0 0 1 ... 0 1 1 0
0 0 ... 1 1 0 1 ... 0 0 1 1
1 0 ... 0 1 0 1 ... 0 1 1 0
• Network (N, A)
• node capacity capi
• arc capacity capij Start let E = max {Dkl}
• demand Dkl
Flow assignment and network update Single maximum flow path searching
Yes Yes
end
Figure
Figure 6. HRES
6. HRES flowchart.
flowchart.
5. Case Study
5. Case Study
In this section, a series of computational experiments are conducted to demonstrate
theInapplication
this section,
anda effectiveness
series of computational experiments
of the proposed aremodel
method. The conducted to demonstrate
is encoded using
theJava
application and effectiveness
8.0. All experiments of theonproposed
are performed method. with
a laptop equipped The an
model is encoded
Intel (R), 2.80 GHzusing
Java 8.0.and
CPU, All 8experiments
GB of RAM. are performed on a laptop equipped with an Intel (R), 2.80 GHz
CPU, and 8 GB of RAM.
5.1. Background Statement
This section
5.1. Background focuses on numerical experiments and analysis. Six group experiments of
Statement
networks are conducted, with 5, 8, 10, 12, 18, and 24 nodes, respectively. The experimental
This section
analysis focuses
is carried out in on
thenumerical experiments
following aspects: and analysis.
(1) comparing Six group
the efficiency experiments
of the HRES
of networks are conducted,
algorithm with the CPLEX with
solver;5,(2)
8, comparing
10, 12, 18, the
andresilience
24 nodes, respectively.
values before andThe experi-
after
mental
building an underground network to analyze the effectiveness of the underground logisticsof the
analysis is carried out in the following aspects: (1) comparing the efficiency
HRES algorithm
network withthe
to improve theresilience
CPLEX solver; (2) comparing
of the system; the resilience
and (3) analyzing values before
the sensitivity of the and
after building an underground network to analyze the effectiveness of the underground
logistics network to improve the resilience of the system; and (3) analyzing the sensitivity
of the resilience value to budget and underground pipeline capacity. Each scenario is run
10 times, and the average is reported.
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 12588 13 of 18
resilience value to budget and underground pipeline capacity. Each scenario is run 10 times,
and the average is reported.
In this experiment, foundational data for ground network node capacity and OD
demand were acquired by referencing statistical data from Beijing and integrating it with
existing Sioux-Falls data. Similarly, fundamental data for underground logistics network
node capacity and transportation pipeline capacity were derived from the parameters of
completed underground logistics systems in Western European countries. These parameters
were further inferred by integrating them with daily traffic flow data from the main roads
of Beijing. Table 1 presents the key parameters of the computational experiment.
Parameters Values
Population size 60
Maximum number of iterations 400
Fixed construction costs for underground nodes 2
Unit construction costs for underground pipelines 1/km
Crossover rate 0.95
Mutation rate 0.05
Table
Table 3.
3. Comparison
Comparison ofoforiginal
original and
and planned
planned network
network resilience
resilience in small-sized
in small-sized instances.
instances.
Table 3. Comparison of original and planned network resilience in small-sized instances.
Node Number (𝑵) Original Network
Original ResiliencePlanned
Network Planned Network Resilience Rate of Increase
Network
Node Number (N) Rate of Increase
Node Number
5 Resilience
(𝑵) Original Network
0.5083 Resilience
Resilience Planned Network Resilience Rate of Increase
0.8917 75.4%
85 5 0.5083
0.5083
0.6205 0.8917
0.8917 0.8625 75.4%
75.4% 39.0%
8 8
10 0.6205
0.6205
0.6915 0.86250.8655
0.8625 39.0% 25.1%
39.0%
10 10 0.6915
0.6915 0.8655
0.8655 25.1%
25.1%
12 0.7758 0.8927 15.0%
12 12 0.7758
0.7758 0.8927
0.8927 15.0%
15.0%
18 18 0.7372
0.7372 0.7837 0.7837 6.3% 6.3%
18 0.7372 0.7837 6.3%
24
24 24 0.6548
0.6548
0.6548 0.8210
0.82100.8210 25.4%
25.4% 25.4%
2 2
77 3 3 4 4
1010
66
9 9 5 5
Ground
Ground
11
8 8
2
7 4
2
7 3 4
6 10 3 5 Underground
9
6 1 10 8 5 Underground
9
1
8
Figure 7. Planned underground logistics network.
Figure 7. Planned underground logistics network.
Figure 7. Planned underground logistics network.
To test the operational effect of the GA-HRES algorithm, the convergence process is
To test the operational effect of the GA-HRES algorithm, the convergence process is
recorded as shown in Figure 8. The convergence process for each case is generally smooth
To test
recorded the operational
as shown in Figure 8.effect of the GA-HRES
The convergence processalgorithm, theis convergence
for each case generally smooth process is
and effective. In particular, for networks with five and eight nodes, not only does the pro-
recorded as shown
and effective. in Figurefor
In particular, 8. networks
The convergence
with fiveprocess
and eightfornodes,
each case is generally
not only does thesmooth
cess converge steadily, but the resilience values also evolve from initial to final results in
process
and converge
effective. steadily, butfor
In particular, thenetworks
resiliencewith
values also evolve from initial toonly
final does
results
a large scope. The results prove that the GA-HRESfive and eight
algorithm nodes,
achieves not
excellent results. the pro-
in a converge
cess large scope. The results
steadily, butprove that the GA-HRES
the resilience algorithm
values also evolveachieves excellent
from initial results.
to final results in
a large scope. The results prove that the GA-HRES algorithm achieves excellent results.
Figure 8.
Figure Convergence of
8. Convergence of algorithm
algorithm results.
results.
To explore
To explore the
thecorrelation
correlationbetween
betweenresilience
resiliencevalues,
values, budget, and
budget, underground
and underground pipeline
pipe-
capacity, a sensitivity analysis is conducted. As shown in Figure 9, within a certain
line capacity, a sensitivity analysis is conducted. As shown in Figure 9, within a certain range,
the resilience
Figure
range, 8.the value increases
Convergence
resilience as the
of algorithm
value increases budget
results.
as grows.
the budget However,
grows. once once
However, a certain threshold
a certain thresh-is
old is exceeded, the resilience value does not increase any further. For example, for a
To explore the correlation between resilience values, budget, and underground pipe-
line capacity, a sensitivity analysis is conducted. As shown in Figure 9, within a certain
range, the resilience value increases as the budget grows. However, once a certain thresh-
Appl.
Appl. Sci.
Sci. 2023,
2023, 13,
13, xx FOR
FOR PEER
PEER REVIEW
REVIEW 15
15 of
of 18
18
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 12588 15 of 18
network
network of of 10
10 nodes,
nodes, the
the resilience
resilience value
value stays
stays at
at 0.86
0.86 once
once the
the budget
budget reaches
reaches the
the thresh-
thresh-
exceeded,
old the resilience value does not increase any further. For example, for a network
old of
of 250.
250. A
A similar
similar situation
situation is
is observed
observed for
for the
the other
other two
two groups
groups ofof networks.
networks. Hence,
Hence,
of 10 is
there nodes, the resilience value staysmaximizes
at 0.86 once the budget reaches the threshold of 250.
there is an optimal budget level that maximizes the resilience of the optimal layout plan.
an optimal budget level that the resilience of the optimal layout plan.
A similar situation is observed for the other two groups of networks. Hence, there is an
For
For instance,
instance, in
in scenarios
scenarios involving
involving networks with 𝑁
networks with 𝑁= = 10 and 𝑁
10 and 𝑁 == 8,8, the
the appropriate
appropriate
optimal budget level that maximizes the resilience of the optimal layout plan. For instance,
budget
budget allocation
allocation is
is 250.
250. Similarly,
Similarly, for
for the
the network with 𝑁
network with 𝑁= = 12,
12, the
the justified
justified budget
budget isis
in scenarios involving networks with N = 10 and N = 8, the appropriate budget allocation
275.
275.
is 250. Similarly, for the network with N = 12, the justified budget is 275.
Figure
Figure 9. Budget sensitivity analysis.
Figure 9.
9. Budget
Budgetsensitivity
sensitivity analysis.
analysis.
Similarly,
Similarly,within
Similarly, withinaaacertain
within certainrange,
certain range,
range, the
the resilience
the
resilience value
resilience increases
value
value increases
increases with
with an
an increase
with an increase
increase in
in thein
the
pipeline
pipeline capacity.
the pipeline capacity.
capacity. Beyond a
Beyond
Beyond certain limit,
a certain
a certain resilience tends
limit, resilience
limit, resilience to
tends to be
tends stable and
to beand
be stable does
stable
doesandnot change
notdoes not
change
with
with increasing
change capacity.
with increasing
increasing As
As shown
capacity.capacity.
shown Asin Figure
Figurein10,
inshown when
Figure
10, when10,the capacity
thewhen reaches
reaches the
the capacity
capacity limit
reaches
the of
limitthe
of
19,000,
limit ofthe
19,000, the resilience
19,000,
resilience value
value tends
the resilience value
tends to 0.87
0.87 and
to tends remains
to 0.87
and and constant.
remains remains Hence,
Hence, there
constant.constant. Hence,
there is
is an optimal
there
an is an
optimal
value
value for
optimal the
the capacity
forvalue for the of
capacity the
the underground
capacity
of transportation
of the underground
underground pipeline,
pipeline, ensuring
transportation
transportation pipeline, that
ensuring the
the resil-
ensuring
that that
resil-
ience
the of the
resilienceoptimal
of the layout
optimal plan is
layout maximized.
plan is Consequently,
maximized. in practical
Consequently,
ience of the optimal layout plan is maximized. Consequently, in practical planning and in planning
practical and
plan-
construction, it
it is
is imperative
ning and construction,
construction, to
to consider
considertoestablishing
it is imperative
imperative aa reasonable
consider establishing
establishing reasonable underground
a reasonable
underground transpor-
underground
transpor-
tation
tation pipeline
transportation capacity
pipeline to
pipeline capacity to minimize
capacity
minimize unnecessary
to minimize
unnecessary cost expenditures.
unnecessary cost expenditures.
cost expenditures.
Figure
Figure10.
Figure 10.Arc
10. Arccapacity
Arc capacitysensitivity
capacity sensitivityanalysis.
sensitivity analysis.
analysis.
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 12588 16 of 18
6. Conclusions
This study introduces a groundbreaking strategy to enhance the resilience of ground
logistics networks by incorporating the construction of an underground logistics network.
This dual-function infrastructure acts proactively against natural disasters like floods
and typhoons while providing a reliable alternative for logistics operations during such
events. Empirical validation through numerical experiments highlights the effectiveness
of implementing an underground logistics network. Resilience exhibits sensitivity to
variations in budget and pipeline capacity within a specific range, stabilizing beyond a
critical threshold. Determining the optimal budget and pipeline capacity becomes crucial
for balancing resilience enhancement and cost-effectiveness in practical planning, avoiding
unnecessary expenditures.
Moreover, this study emphasizes the practical value of the proposed model and al-
gorithm for network planners. The integration of budget constraints and underground
pipeline capacity considerations empowers planners to strategically enhance ground logis-
tics network resilience. The results contribute nuanced insights into how specific decisions
on budget and pipeline capacity impact logistics network resilience, guiding informed
decision-making.
In conclusion, this research not only presents an innovative method for boosting
ground logistics network resilience but also offers practical insights for network planning
under budgetary constraints and infrastructure considerations. Comprehensive numerical
experiments attest to the robustness of our approach, providing actionable insights for
real-world applications.
7. Discussions
While this study provides a novel perspective on enhancing logistics network re-
silience, there are several limitations that warrant attention. For instance, the Monte Carlo
simulation lacks the inclusion of damage scenarios specific to underground pipelines. Ad-
ditionally, the assumption of uniform capacity for underground transportation pipelines
may oversimplify real-world complexities. A more accurate representation would involve
considering capacity in tandem with construction costs.
Furthermore, beyond resilience, there is a need to extend consideration to other
objectives, such as accessibility. Exploring efficient metaheuristic algorithms that deliver
high-quality solutions within shorter timeframes could enhance the outcomes of the study.
Additionally, integrating stochastic and uncertain factors into planning considerations is
essential. This inclusive approach provides planners and decision-makers with valuable
insights into infrastructure planning and management.
Certainly, a more comprehensive exploration of the environmental impact of con-
structing an underground logistics network is crucial. The intricate interplay of geological
conditions in diverse urban settings significantly influences the construction challenges
associated with such networks. Integrating these considerations into the model and al-
gorithm, possibly through the application of multi-objective optimization techniques, is
worth exploring.
The feasibility of underground logistics networks is intricately connected to urban
planning, land use, and seamless integration with existing infrastructure. Cities host
complex underground pipeline networks, including water supply, sewage, natural gas,
and more. Consequently, the implementation of underground logistics networks requires
precise consideration and coordination of different pipelines to avoid conflicts and resource
waste. Additionally, urban traffic flow and land use conditions impose specific requirements
on the design and layout of underground logistics networks, ensuring efficient connectivity
with other parts of the city.
Appl. Sci. 2023, 13, 12588 17 of 18
Author Contributions: Conceptualization, Z.X. and X.C.; methodology, Z.X.; software, Y.F.; valida-
tion, Z.X., Y.F. and W.P.; formal analysis, W.P.; investigation, Y.F.; resources, X.C.; data curation, Z.X.
and Y.F.; writing—original draft preparation, Y.F. and W.P.; writing—review and editing, Z.X. and
X.C.; visualization, W.P.; supervision, Z.X.; project administration, X.C.; funding acquisition, X.C.
All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.
Funding: This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (grant
number 52090084) and Strategic Research and Consulting Project of Chinese Academy of Engineering
(grant number 2022-JB-02).
Institutional Review Board Statement: Not applicable.
Informed Consent Statement: Not applicable.
Data Availability Statement: The data presented in this study are available on request from the
corresponding author. The data are not publicly available due to privacy reason.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.
Abbreviations
OD Origin–destination
GA Genetic algorithm
HRES Heuristic resilience evaluation scheme
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