Focus on the first stages of work at CTB has been on fine tuning the measuring algorithms needed to secure reliability of the camera and laser systems, which is fundamental to the project's success. Commercially available hardware and software platforms have been used as a basis from which Kalmar has developed the new application technology.

Accurate container positioning is essential. The ASCs must keep the container stacks within certain limits, which can be problematic in heavy winds, at high transfer speeds and on uneven ground. At CTB, container positioning will be implemented by a camera and laser system which utilises reference points on the ground.

The ASC spreader is equipped with four camera positions showing the corners of the container, which assist it in automatically placing the container in the correct position.

On the land side of the terminal, loading and unloading of road trucks will be remotely controlled with the assistance of cameras. The camera will thus serve as the operator's eyes. The camera system is also used to speed up stacking in the automated mode.

Information is passed through different channels of an optical fibre, conveying both control system and video image information. With reliable information transfer essential, communications channels have been secured so that if something happens, such as a cable breaking, the system will not be vulnerable.

Block system reliability is also critical and each block has been equipped with three cranes each so that if one is out of service the other two can undertake its work. Kalmar will implement the automation as a distributed solution, with a dedicated server for each block, all running the same software and backing each other up. The system is thus easily and flexibly expandable whenever necessary, with the multiple computers ensuring high reliability.

MJ Information No: 22024