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Autonomous Cranes

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 decades Navtech Radar's sensors have been used to automate straddle carriers at ports, allowing vehicles to operate entirely unmanned. 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.

All-weather operation

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

Easy integration

  • 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 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

Related Case Studies

Contact us for more information

Our process begins with understanding your specific application requirements. We can arrange site visits and demonstrations tailored for your individual needs.

Icon of spider diagram demonstrating the system speicfications

System specification

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