Copyright: Künz GmbH
An AI-based assistance system for transshipping semi-trailers
Handling intermodal crane terminals – particularly the transfer of semi-trailers and containers – requires maximum precision, operational safety, and efficiency. This is exactly where the research project “Road2Rail” comes in: The AIT Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) and Künz GmbH (Künz) have jointly developed an AI-powered assistance system to support crane operators in transshipment operations.
Key benefits of the system
- Targeted support for crane operators during loading processes
- Automated situational analysis for improved safety
- Consistent process quality with higher efficiency
- Environmentally friendly operations through optimized workflows and fewer errors
- More semi-trailers can be shifted from road to rail
Technological foundation
The solution integrates advanced image processing and multi-sensor fusion to ensure reliable environment perception in real time – even under challenging light and weather conditions. AI algorithms detect and classify semi-trailers, determine their exact position, and seamlessly feed this data into the crane control interface for path planning and operations.
From prototype to market maturity
After completing the first project phase, the team has now delivered a fully functional solution designed for the complex conditions of intermodal operations. In phase two, the partners are working on industrial implementation and market readiness – a major step towards digitalized and sustainable terminal processes.
With „Road2Rail“, AIT and Künz are making a decisive contribution to the digital transformation and ecological optimization of logistics processes – while strengthening Austria’s position in the international logistics sector.
More information
The “Road2Rail” project was funded under the “Mobility of the Future” program by the Austrian Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure (BMIMI).