Container code recognition boosts efficiency
"Many entry and exit gates to port facilities are constrained ... and face additional congestion and delays with entries and exits," Sean Pierce, Tideworks
Ports and terminals are under growing pressure to meet the needs of increased container traffic, hold down costs and meet heightened security needs, says Hi-Tech Solutions.
Anticipated future growth of container traffic will increase pressure on port operations to improve efficiency, particularly in those areas that cannot be physically expanded in line with this growth, says a spokesman.
"Many entry and exit gates to port facilities are constrained by these practical issues, and face additional congestion and delays with entries and exits," he says.
Hi-Tech says OCR, combined with other technologies, reduces bottlenecks to a minimum and prevents mistakes in handling or storing wrong containers. "In addition, the ability to track and verify containers and trucks automatically contributes to the port's security, and helps identify suspicious containers, as well as those containing hazardous materials."
As global environmental regulations grow ever stricter, port authorities need efficient tools to control and manage hazardous materials inside the port and while entering and leaving the port gates, says the spokesman.
"Container code recognition (CCR) technology can help in this field, automatically reading hazmat labels and placards, and identifying hazmat containers and their content. In addition, the fact that the trucks pass through the gates without stopping and starting several times, cuts down on fuel consumption and hazardous emissions.
Hi-Tech's latest developments include vision-based CCR and licence plate recognition products, integrated with gate gantries and portals and other systems, and it has started providing a pre-configured CCR gantry for ports and rail terminals.
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