Tideworks Technology Integrates with Stacking Cranes

Tideworks Technology® Inc., a full-service provider of comprehensive terminal management and planning software solutions, today announced that Manzanillo International Terminal (MIT) Panama has deployed the latest versions of Tideworks’ terminal operating system (TOS) solutions to support its automatic stacking cranes (ASCs). The ASCs are part of a large-scale automation project at MIT to streamline operational processes and increase efficiencies.

The addition of the ASCs signifies the commencement of automated terminal operations at MIT. Manufactured by Shanghai Zhenhua Heavy Industry Co., Ltd. (ZPMC), the cranes provide 12-wide stacking capabilities, allowing MIT to substantially increase yard density.  The cranes are equipped with multiple systems employing lasers, cameras and radar to help precisely position trucks and chassis under the crane, as well as ensure accurate landing of the spreader bar and containers. A “Chassis Anti-Lift System” prevents containers from being lifted if they are still locked to the chassis or flatbed, helping to ensure a safe working environment.  Additionally, because the cranes are electric, CO2 emissions are dramatically reduced compared to MIT’s legacy diesel-powered rubber tired gantries (RTGs).

“We are very pleased to have formed a true partnership with MIT on its automation project,” said Michael Schwank, president at Tideworks. “This was Tideworks’ first project supporting ASCs, marking a significant milestone for us. We developed several advanced features enabling our products to work seamlessly with ASCs, which opens the door for Tideworks to collaborate with other automated terminals in the future.”

In order to leverage the abilities of MIT’s ASCs, Tideworks delivered several new automation and optimization features within its Spinnaker® and Traffic Control™ systems. Additionally, Tideworks worked with ABB, the ASC drive control system provider, to meet extensive integration requirements.

“Tideworks played a fundamental role in MIT’s automation and we’re very pleased that we had their support,” said Thomas Rucker, vice president of operations at MIT. “The combination of features developed by Tideworks will guarantee that these tremendous assets are performing at peak productivity in benefit of the operation and that our yard capacity is optimized.”

As part of the larger automation project at MIT, Tideworks also recently deployed its GateVision® gate operating system to help streamline gate activity and reduce trucker turn times at the facility.