INDUSTRIAL AUTOMATION SOLUTIONS

Port Botany

Sydney, Australia

Navtech Radar's 360° scanning radar sensors allowed for robust navigation of automated straddle carriers, enhancing efficiency, increasing productivity and consistency, and securing a prominent global position for the port.

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Australia's 2nd busiest container port

Sensors deployed in 2012 by Navtech

Increase of 30% in efficiency

Saving of €300k per straddle carrier

Reduction of 75% in safety incidents

CHALLENGE

Reliable positioning of automated straddle carriers.

The positioning challenge in the automated straddle carrier terminal centred on achieving precise and reliable navigation amidst diverse environmental conditions.

The need for centimetre accuracy during automated operations, coupled with challenges posed by adverse weather, demanded an innovative solution. Traditional navigation methods struggled to maintain consistency, prompting the adoption of radar-based navigation.

Operating independently of external infrastructure, such as GPS, the radar system provided uninterrupted service, vital for continuous, 24/7 operations. Overcoming wear and tear concerns associated with varying terrain, the radar navigation solution not only met the precision requirements but also ensured resilience in adverse weather, addressing the core challenges posed by environmental variables and operational demands in the dynamic container yard setting.

“The implementation of Navtech Radar’s 360° scanning radar systems has made Port Botany 30% more efficient than our competitors. The automation enables stronger global competition, increased productivity and simultaneous cost reduction, enhancing our capability to manage more business, ultimately leading to increased profits.”

John Mullan
Chief Executive Officer, Asciano

Approach

Radar-based navigation

The radar navigation leverages a network of passive radar beacons, strategically positioned across the terminal yard. Typically, 100 to 200 beacons are installed, forming a robust network. A radar unit, positioned atop the straddle carrier, precisely tracks the beacon positions. Navigation necessitates a clear line of sight to a minimum of three beacons at all times, a requirement easily met in practice.

Compared to magnet navigation, the radar-based system boasts a more cost-effective infrastructure. The individual radar beacons are budget-friendly and effortlessly installed on structures like lighting towers. Additionally, the elevated placement of the radar equipment on the straddle carrier frame ensures enhanced protection against wear and tear. Notably, radar navigation is versatile, accommodating any pavement surface. The stack shuffle feature further contributes to pavement longevity, offering a sustainable solution for the container yard.

IMPACT

Increased efficiencies surpasses competitors

The implementation of radar sensors at Port Botany propelled it to a global leadership position, boasting a 30% efficiency increase that surpassed competitors. This technological overhaul, executed in a swift four-day transition, solidified Port Botany as one of the world’s most advanced robotic port operations.

Port Botany’s global competitiveness was enhanced, leading to increased business management, higher profits, and securing Australia’s global market access. The comprehensive impact included reduced diesel consumption, lower maintenance costs, and improved safety, showcasing the system’s resilience in all weather conditions.

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