Automated container wagon pin handling project concludes at HHLA terminal

Port logistics company HHLA has concluded a development project for automatic repositioning of pins on container wagons. The robot technology is not ready to be on the market yet, but HHLA believes it to be promising.
The project, called “Pin Handling mR”, aimed to develop a mobile robot to automate pin handling on container wagons. That is a manual process now, but repositioning of the pins could well be automated in the future. In order to make that happen, a robot developed by Fraunhofer CML was tested under real-life conditions at the Tollerort terminal. The system can independently find its way along the container train and position the necessary pins “precisely and efficiently” with the aid of its robotic arm.

“The system primarily aims to improve workplace safety by reducing manual tasks in potentially hazardous areas – as well as automating the activity itself”, HHLA explains to RailFreight.com. “At the same time, it has the potential to enhance cost-effectiveness by streamlining operations.”

Proven feasibility

HHLA is optimistic about the potential of the pin handling robot. “While it is not yet more cost-efficient than manual handling, initial tests show that automation could lead to long-term efficiency gains by minimising delays and optimising workflows. The extent of these benefits will become clearer as the technology matures and is further refined.”

“This research project has shown that the automation of pin handling in rail processing is technically feasible”, said Pablo Rossio, project manager at HHLA. “The insights gained from this research now form the basis for further evaluation of its operational use. […] In the next phase, we aim to further develop this technology to enable its application in productive operations.”

Additional trials

HHLA explains that further refinements are needed in precision, speed, and integration with terminal systems. “Challenges include adapting to different rail configurations, combining data by rail operators, OCR and Terminal Operating System and meeting industry standards. Tests so far have been promising, with the system successfully performing pin handling, but additional trials will ensure consistency and robustness across various operational scenarios.”

There is no clear timeframe yet for the further development of the system. More research and development are necessary to get it up to standard. But, says HHLA, a decision will be made on the potential scope of a follow-up project.