TACTICS - The Automated Conveying and Transfer of Intermodal Cargo Shipments
Overview
Background & policy context:
The development of intermodal transport is hindered by loading and unloading practices of palletised goods which are too variable and very inefficient, involving excessive packaging and inefficient multiple handling operations at numerous points in the transport chain. Vehicle and container utilisation is also poor, requiring unnecessary equipment and redundant operational support. This problem would be reduced by standardised and automated loading systems. <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = 'urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office' />
Objectives:
TACTICS aims to demonstrate that the loading bay and intermodal transfer of palletised goods can be fully automated, electronically managed and networked into computer based logistics within existing transport systems. Under this system, goods can be packed at source and delivered in returnable packaging in a fully automated cycle. In addition to improved efficiency (such as more effective use of vehicles and warehousing, fast intermodal transfer and reduced material handling), the transfer of goods in an uninterrupted recyclable intermodal distribution chain would also bring benefits in terms of reduced consumption of fuels and packaging, reduced traffic congestion and pollution, and reduce the impact of freight traffic on the urban environment. <?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = 'urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office' />
Methodology:
The project will involve the construction of a functional system to:
- verify the system developed;
- demonstrate mechanical engineering, electronic control and logistics software systems;
- demonstrate that it is viable to transfer palletised goods in an uninterrupted recyclable intermodal distribution chain.
The project includes a cross-European demonstration programme involving the automatic loading and transfer of palletised goods as part of a high volume consumer distribution chain. This will handle consumer products from origin to point of retail, which will be electronically-tagged and use the same recyclable palleting.
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