Contract Design for Cloud Logistics (CL) Based on Blockchain Technology (BT)

Abstract

Purpose. This paper aims to design the contract and present the profit distribution mechanism for CL platform, so as to realize the intelligent and automatic operation of the artificial intelligent- (AI-) based CL platform. Design/Methodology. A smart contract based on BT is designed for the AI-based CL platform. Profit distribution mechanism based on the Nash bargaining model for the CL platform is also put forward to coordinate different participators’ benefit relationship in CL. Findings. The AI-based CL platform and the proposed smart contract based on BT map the scenario which may be influenced by human factors and involve trust issues onto execution of codes. Practical Implications. The study will help CL practitioners in establishing effective profit mechanism and designing contracts on the platform, thus facilitating its sustainable operation. Originality/Value. The AI-based CL platform with BT smart contract can be totally free of human intervention, and hence, the problems of trust during CL platform’s operation are solved.