IEEE Access (Jan 2024)
Blockchain-Enabled Safeguard Mechanism in SCP-Based Relief Supply Chain Designs in Response to Long-Term Disasters
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted challenges in manufacturing and distributing essential medical relief supplies like personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical rescue equipment (MRE), such as sudden demand surges, supply chain disruptions, limited resources, and lack of coordination. This study proposes an innovative smart relief manufacturing system leveraging smart connected products (SCP) integrated with a blockchain-enabled safeguard mechanism to enhance relief supply chain (RSC) resilience. The SCP-based SRMS enables mass customization of PPEs and MREs tailored to diverse customer needs. A multi-phase collaboration framework engages customers in ordering, production planning, and delivery. Blockchain enhances transparency, efficiency, and trust by preventing record tampering and enabling the verification of optimal medical supply distribution decisions. This framework provides a valuable template for building intelligent, transparent RSC networks using emerging technologies like SCP and blockchain.
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