Getting Started
Introduction to the Twist-lock Automated Removal and Installation Solution
This document provides a comprehensive introduction to the twist-lock automated removal and installation solution, covering industry status, product history, key technologies, and channel layout.
1. Industry Status
Development Stages of Terminal Automation Technology
The development of terminal automation technology can be divided into three stages:
| Technology | Initial Stage (1993-2013) | Mature Stage (2014-Present) |
|---|---|---|
| Automated Guided Vehicle (AGV) | High cost, technical verification stage | Large-scale application, mature technology |
| Automated Rail Mounted Gantry Crane (ARMG) | High cost, technical verification stage | Large-scale application, mature technology |
| Automated Quay Crane (AQC) | High cost, technical verification stage | Large-scale application, mature technology |
| Twist-lock Handling | Manual operation, high risk | Automation is a key breakthrough |
Technological Innovation in Twist-lock Handling
- •DEEPLOCK PLS System:
The first in the industry to use a six-axis robotic arm with a self-adaptive gripper and AI vision for automated twist-lock handling.
- •Other Solutions:
Mainly based on gantry or truss structures, with lower flexibility and efficiency.
Product History
Phase 1: Technical Feasibility Verification (2018.06 - 2020.03)
This phase focused on verifying the core technical feasibility of the project.
Phase 2: Engineering Prototype Development (2020.04 - 2021.06)
This phase aimed to develop a stable and reliable engineering prototype.
Phase 3: Productization and Market Promotion (2021.07 - 2022.12)
This phase focused on transforming the prototype into a commercial product and promoting it in the market.
Phase 4: Continuous Iteration and Market Expansion (2023.01 - Present)
This phase is dedicated to continuous product optimization and expanding market applications.
3. Key Technologies
Edge Computing and AI Deep Learning
The PLS system relies on edge computing and AI deep learning to achieve efficient and accurate twist-lock handling. Key applications include:
- • License Plate Recognition - Guides drivers and links container information.
- • Laser Ranging - Accurately measures the position of the container vehicle.
- • 3D Vision - Precisely locates the container corner castings.
- • 2D Vision - Identifies the type of twist-lock.
Integrated Solution for Twist-lock Handling
PLS System Features:
- • Full-process automation: Automated identification, positioning, handling, and storage.
- • High efficiency: Single operation time < 30s, efficiency increased by 300%.
- • High safety: Multiple safety protections, zero accidents.
- • Intelligent scheduling: Seamless integration with terminal management systems.
AI Vision Capabilities:
- 1. 3D Corner Casting Positioning - Tolerance ≤ 0.4mm.
- 2. 2D Twist-lock Recognition - Accuracy ≥ 99.7%.
Gripper Iteration and Coverage
Self-adaptive Gripper:
V2.1 Gripper - The self-adaptive gripper can handle over 95% of twist-lock types, with a classification of more than 300 types worldwide into 25 categories.
- • Handles 95% of twist-lock types
- • Covers 25 categories
- • High adaptability and reliability
Twist-lock Type Coverage:
- • Single/Double locking pins - Fully covered
- • Automatic locks - Fully covered
- • Special-shaped locks - Partially covered
4. Channel Layout
Flexible Device Configuration
Device Types:
The PLS system offers three types of automated lock machines: T-type, L-type, and G-type, which can be flexibly combined according to the actual needs of the terminal.
- • T-type: Installed in the middle of the channel, responsible for handling the two twist-locks in the middle of the container.
- • L-type: Installed on the side of the channel, responsible for handling the two twist-locks on one side of the container.
- • G-type: Gantry-style design, spanning the top of the channel, capable of handling all four twist-locks.
Modular Design:
- • Independent units, can be freely combined.
- • Supports single-sided, double-sided, and mixed layouts.
- • Facilitates phased implementation and future upgrades.
Intelligent Scheduling Strategy
Improving Transport Efficiency:
- • Dual-cycle operation: The container truck and the internal transport vehicle operate in parallel, reducing waiting time.
- • Intelligent path planning: Optimizes the operating path of the robotic arm, improving handling efficiency.
- • Automated inventory management: Real-time monitoring of twist-lock inventory, automatic replenishment reminders.
Next Steps
You have now completed the getting started guide. You can continue to explore the following sections to learn more: