Essentially, a container terminal upgrade with automation is mostly "revamping the current terminals + putting in intelligent systems". A terminal which automates operations like handling, transportation, yard operations, and control not only becomes a place of safe and efficient operations but also a place that can handle a high cargo throughput demand in a very short time of the unit of measure."
I. Automation Renovation of Handling Equipment
Quay Crane Renovation: Automated container grabbing is facilitated by fixed laser positioning, visual recognition, and automatic control systems through which the container grabbing and accurate alignment are done automatically; thus, manual on-board crane operations are completely eliminated. Moreover, the installation of the anti-sway and deviation correction features is aimed at regaining the operational precision in the complicated operation environment, together with the power supply systems which are upgraded in some instances to reduce the equipment wear concurrently.
Yard Crane / Stacker Renovation: Yard cranes and stackers have been provided with RFID recognition devices, travel positioning equipment, and automatic dispatch modules so that they can independently locate, retrieve containers, and return to the position. The elimination of operator cabins and the introduction of the "one operator controlling several machines" via remote monitoring are in line with labor cost reduction.
Straddle Carrier Renovation (for Small-to-Medium Terminals): The old straddle carriers are retrofitted with automated steering, lifting, and recognition systems so that the machines can there alone to perform short-distance transfer and stacking tasks. The overhaul cost is quite a lot less than that of the complete replacement of the existing ones with new AGVs.
Multi-Level Warehouse Renovation (for Special Containers): Through the use of automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS), regular yards are converted into multi-level warehouses, thus, the degree of space utilization is raised. The reason is that the sensors are always monitoring the storage environment of refrigerated containers and hazardous material ones; therefore, the safety of the cargo is assured.
Being the first to get information about vessel stowage and customs declaration, operations are thus changed from "passive waiting" to "proactive connection", thereby, the vessel's time in port is shortened.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
