Yusen Terminal automates container handoffs

Yusen Terminal automates container handoffs    Yusen Terminals International at the Port of Los Angeles has implemented an radio frequency identification-based asset management system that integrates with its existing terminal operating system from Navis LLC.
   The technology identifies the position of the container in the yard and automates the transfer of the container between trucks looking for an outbound load and cargo handling equipment. The RFID component is provided by WhereNet, a Zebra Technologies company.
   Zebra recently sold Navis to Cargotec, the large manufacturer of cargo handling equipment. Navis partners with Zebra and other technology vendors to develop integrated systems for marine terminal operations. Navis is the exclusive provider of WhereNet to the marine terminal sector.
   The Navis Marine Telematics software optimizes the RTG's container lifts based on the location of the truck and crane. Trucks are automatically assigned their next move based on real-time events. Trucks outfitted with WhereNet RFID tags are able to be directed to the correct position in the yard for container pickup, and the terminal can automatically dispatch the rubber-tired gantry crane to retrieve the container and drop it on the truck's chassis. The system monitors the time operators and drivers spend waiting to be serviced. Over time, terminal management can develop an accurate picture of areas where operations are delayed or where excess equipment has been deployed, according to Navis.
   Yusen officials said the product has helped them reduce truck turn times and accurate track RTG performance. Moves per hour have improved by 20 percent and error rates have been reduced to less than 5 percent.