HHLA and Fraunhofer Aim to Automate Hinterland Processes

As part of the IHATEC project “Pin-Handling-mR”, Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) is collaborating with the Fraunhofer Center for Maritime Logistics and Services (CML) to investigate the automation of the so-called pin handling in rail processing using mobile robotics. The project is funded by the Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) under the Innovative Port Technologies (IHATEC) funding program.

(Hamburg) The goal of the research project “Pin-Handling-mR” is to develop and demonstrate the handling of foldable pins on container wagons using an autonomous mobile robotics system. Currently, these pins must still be operated manually before loading trains. They are installed at different positions on the container wagons and are raised or moved depending on the container size. In the future, this time-consuming process is to be taken over by a mobile robot that will operate the pins using a robotic arm.

Together with Fraunhofer CML and in close collaboration with its subsidiaries, HHLA aims to develop an autonomous prototype of the mobile robot and test it under real conditions. Additionally, within two and a half years, software for the robotics will be developed that has an interface to the port logistics system. This way, the pin handling could then be monitored and controlled from the control center.

Optimizing Terminal Processes

Jens Hansen, Chief Operating Officer of HHLA, emphasizes the importance of the project for the HHLA Group: “The development of automated pin handling helps us continue to optimize terminal processes and reduce transport costs in hinterland traffic. With the innovative mobile robotics solution, we can also improve the working environment and especially the safety of our employees. This project is particularly exciting because we can bring together diverse expertise across the group and network many competent partners.”

Prof. Dr.-Ing. Carlos Jahn, head of Fraunhofer CML, emphasizes: “The significance of the hinterland for the Port of Hamburg is evident in the development of the port railway in recent years. Even today, there are many automated solutions in the port environment. The areas of application and possibilities for increasing efficiency are very diverse. Our expertise in mobile robotics lies in the conception and development of application-oriented solutions. Therefore, we are very pleased to collaborate with HHLA on a project that optimizes processes in rail handling.”

Funding Notification Presented in Berlin

The funding notification for this IHATEC project was presented on September 28, 2022, during the networking conference IHATEC / DigiTest in Berlin.

HHLA takes on the role of project coordinator and supports the project with its subsidiaries Container Terminal Altenwerder (CTA), HHLA Sky, Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC), Metrans, and Service Center Altenwerder (SCA). CTA and SCA apply their technical expertise and long-standing terminal know-how. They accompany the tests with specialized personnel and provide the necessary terminal infrastructure for this purpose. HHLA Sky contributes its specially developed IoT control center “Integrated Control Center”, through which the mission planning, monitoring, and control of the mobile robot will take place in the future. HHLA’s rail subsidiary Metrans supports the project with the wagons and operational data integration. HPC handles the administrative processing of the project and also supports operational questions as a consulting company in the port and transport sector.

In-Depth Knowledge in Robotics

Fraunhofer CML is primarily responsible for the conception and development of the mobile robotics system. This includes the selection and procurement of suitable hardware components, their integration into the overall solution, and system testing. In this process, Fraunhofer CML brings its in-depth knowledge in robotics.

In addition, other associated partners support the project. With their expertise in inland terminals for combined transport, KTL Kombi-Terminal Ludwigshafen, neska shipping and forwarding agency, and the Braunschweig Port Operating Company provide requirements for the robotics system.

Innovations in Port Technologies

The IHATEC project is funded by the BMDV with the aim of advancing innovations in port technologies in the field of autonomous systems and automated technologies. The expected acceleration of processing at the terminals will also lead to efficiency increases and cost optimizations in hinterland traffic. This will further strengthen the competitiveness of rail container handling in the Port of Hamburg.

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