Syscon Robotics said on Jan. 23 that a "tram-based automatic transport shuttle system dedicated to transshipment cargo" it jointly developed with Busan Port Authority (BPA) was designated as an outstanding new logistics technology by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries. The technology is a track-based, electric-powered device in which 2 shuttles work together to transport cargo containers of 20 feet or more without drivers. Syscon Robotics, a specialist in autonomous logistics robots, is a subsidiary of V1Tech, a KOSDAQ-listed company.

The system was developed to address problems from rising port cargo volumes. The company said the trailer method makes it difficult to handle growing transshipment cargo. It aims to deliver space efficiency, on-time performance, environmental friendliness and automation at the same time. Two battery-based, tram-type shuttles operate as a team to carry containers in both directions and enable unmanned automatic transport through autonomous driving and a control system.

The shuttle system drew attention because it can raise transport efficiency for intra-terminal transshipment cargo movement (ITT) within ports. It said it can build long-distance track-based ITT infrastructure between Busan New Port and Jinhae New Port and replace trailer transport to achieve port automation. It is also applied to automating container transport between inland container depots (ICD) and hinterland complexes.

It can also be expanded into smart mobility if linked with rail- and tram-based logistics infrastructure. It can also enter the urban logistics sector based on lightweight trams. Syscon Robotics has experience supplying robots to North American finished-vehicle production processes and major home appliance manufacturing lines. It has sold about 1,400 units in total to major companies at home and abroad.

A Syscon Robotics official said, "This designation as an outstanding new logistics technology is the result of recognition that autonomous robot technology can drive innovation at port logistics sites." The official added, "We will develop it beyond simple transport equipment into an integrated smart logistics platform linked with the port control system (ACS) and lead the smart port market at home and abroad."