TestfahrzeugFoto: GPR
BTG Positioning Systems, a leading provider of absolute position measurement systems for container terminals, and GPR Ground Positioning Radar, a leader in advanced positioning technology, announce a strategic collaboration to develop a next-generation positioning system for seaports.
Seaports, which handle an estimated 80% of the world’s trade, present a complex and challenging environment for automation. Looking at the challenges of positioning, the introduction of automated vehicles and cranes in ports has so far been limited by a lack of reference points, limited visibility, unfavorable weather conditions, unreliable GNSS signals and expensive sensor packages.
The partnership between BTG and GPR is a strategic step towards a fully autonomous supply chain. The new technology, jointly developed by the parties, relies solely on ground penetrating radar to accurately and reliably position autonomous equipment in all visibility conditions. This change in reliability and availability will reduce upfront investment for operators, lower operational and maintenance costs and open up the possibility of automated operations for any port.
The partnership grants BTG exclusive rights to utilize GPR’s core technology in seaports. The $40 million agreement is the result of a year-long collaboration between the parties.
“Our new system for measuring absolute positioning is a milestone for the industry. It offers the same level of precision and reliability as our conventional systems, but without the need to implement infrastructure facilities. This opens the door to wider acceptance of autonomous driverless vehicles and gantries and contributes to the efficiency and safety of container terminal operations,” says Diek Neurdenburg, CEO of BTG Positioning Systems.
“This collaboration is not just about introducing a new technology, it’s about shaping the future of autonomous transportation,” said Moran David, CEO of GPR. “We are integrating GPR’s unique technology with BTG’s broad range of solutions. This collaboration is a testament to BTG’s commitment to providing the best solution to its customers, and we couldn’t have found a better partner to develop a complete solution for ports.”
The joint product positions both companies as market leaders in autonomous operations technology, providing an innovative solution to the critical challenges facing the industry.
