Industrial Automation

Automating a vehicle’s travel around a site, whether a port or a mine, is no longer a distant dream of the future. For over a decade Navtech Radar's sensors have been used to automate straddle carriers at ports, allowing vehicles to operate entirely unmanned. Just one sensor is required per vehicle, and by using strategically placed radar targets across the site, the system is able to calculate each vehicle’s precise location. Precise routes can be planned, avoiding collisions and preventing incursions into unauthorised areas, whilst data such as speed and location of the vehicle is continuously sent to the operating system.

Radar is ideal for such applications as these environments are vulnerable to extreme weather conditions. Ports often experience fog and heavy rain, whilst mine sites tend to be very dusty. Radar is unaffected by these factors, and the sensor does not need to be regularly cleaned or maintained in order to perform well, unlike optical or laser-based sensors. Navtech Radar’s CIR sensors have been developed to withstand the vibrations associated with being mounted on a vehicle, as well as resisting corrosion from any dust or salt water present.

Image of industrial automation in a large port environment.

Detection Conditions

Fog, snow, rain, sand and dust storms
Fire, smoke and hot gasses
Water and spray
Extreme temperatures
Strong vibrations

Other capabilities

Impact resistant
360° scanning sensor
High-resolution imaging
Anti-collision
Configurable and integrable

Image of large automated industrial machinery.

How Does it Work?

Example: Port Botany, Sydney

The sensor is integrated with chosen site equipment using a Software Development Kit. There is an option for on-board processing, which reduces the need for infrastructure and bandwidth requirements.

The system is fully automated, but a web-based user interface allows for remote monitoring.

The featured video shows the sensor in action at Port Botany, Sydney.

Why Choose Navtech Radar's Sensors for Industrial Automation?

Robust sensor

The robust sensor is ideal for sensing in harsh environments. It provides high-resolution sensing at an industrial level.

Compact design

The compact design allows for easy shipping and handling. It also means installation on complex equipment is possible.

Minimal maintenance

No cleaning of the sensors is required. Maintenance at intervals of five years only, making it a cost-effective solution.

Low cost of ownership

Automated sensors means the demand for manual labour is reduced. Money can also be saved on electricity costs because the sensor can operate in complete darkness.