Kalmar’s modular process automation solution powers intermodal operations in North America

Kalmar delivered four SmartPort process automation solutions for the railway: SmartStack, SmartMap, SmartScreen and SmartTrack. These solutions have previously been implemented across the rail operator’s entire cargo-handling equipment fleet at terminals in multiple North American locations.

SmartStack is a process automation solution that provides a real-time, accurate inventory of the terminal's containers. SmartStack improves lift equipment operator productivity, reduces human error and improves terminal safety. SmartMap enables real-time and historical visualisation of equipment location and container routing in the yard. SmartScreen optimizes work instructions for operators in order to reduce non-productive moves, while SmartTrack enables automatic visualization and registration of container moves to and from the railcars.

“SmartTrack brings additional functionality to SmartMap and SmartScreen by modeling the trains accurately along the tracks in the yard down to the individual railcar or container level,” says Jean-Philippe Joassin, Director, Process Automation, Kalmar. “As a result, container moves can now be tracked and reported automatically for both loading and unloading of the train.”

SmartTrack brings additional functionality to SmartMap and SmartScreen by modeling the trains accurately along the tracks in the yard down to the individual railcar or container level.

At the latest delivered site, the newly installed Kalmar SmartPort solution is used on reachstackers, utility trucks and gantry cranes. Previous projects at the rail operator’s terminals include hardware and software, professional services deployment, system integration and configuration, as well as ongoing 24/7 support. The Kalmar SmartPort solution is specifically designed to enable even smaller terminals to have visibility of their inventory, and opens the way to gradually automate processes when needed. Among other features, the solution enables equipment drivers to see the list of jobs assigned to them and to report the performed jobs.

“We are proud that another operator has again selected our cost-effective, modular, proven process automation solutions for their terminal operations,” adds Joassin. “Kalmar SmartPort solutions help lower the entry barrier to process automation for rail operators, offering the opportunity to make cargo-handling operations in railway applications safer, as well as more efficient and productive.”

We are proud that another operator has again selected our cost-effective, modular, proven process automation solutions for their terminal operations.