Hamburger Hafen und Logistik (HHLA) and the Fraunhofer Center for Maritime Logistics and Services (CML) have concluded the "Pin Handling mR" project.
The robot was tested under operational conditions at the HHLA Container Terminal Tollerort (CTT). The system was developed to carry out a task that is currently performed manually: placing and adjusting locking pins based on container size and position. These pins are essential for securing containers on rail wagons and vary depending on the load configuration.
The robotic unit, equipped with a magnetic gripper and controlled via a system developed by HHLA Sky, is capable of autonomous movement along container trains. It identifies pin locations, performs the necessary positioning, and reports back to a central control system. System components were first tested in simulations and in a controlled lab environment before being trialed at the terminal.
Technical design and coordination
Fraunhofer CML led the design and integration of the robotic solution. The scope included hardware selection, system architecture, and full system integration. The software is based on a Robot Operating System (ROS) framework tailored to the specific requirements of the pin-handling process.
HHLA coordinated the project through collaboration across several subsidiaries, including HHLA Sky, Metrans, Hamburg Port Consulting (HPC), and the CTT terminal team. The project utilized this network to align terminal workflows with emerging automation technologies.
Further development path
The research phase concluded with a presentation and live demonstration at CTT on April 1, 2025. While the technology is not yet operationally deployed, the outcome has provided a framework for future iterations. Potential follow-up phases could target the transition from pilot to production-ready systems, with a focus on cost-efficiency and operational integration.
The IHATEC funding program supports innovation in port logistics, specifically in autonomous and automated systems. The project contributes to the exploration of mobile robotic applications in rail operations, particularly in the interface between terminal handling and rail freight logistics.
