SMART DOCKING LIDAR
The smart docking lidar scanner was developed in the wake of an
innovation challenge for the Port of Antwerp-Bruges (POAB). They
wanted a product-solution for accurately measuring the movements
of moored container vessels in the port. As accurate GPS systems
are very expensive and inconvenient, because they have to be
installed on the bridge of the ship when the vessel is
moored.
Therefore, a lidar scanner placed on a bollard on the quay wall
is a much more convenient solution for the port personnel. A
custom software program uses the lidar data to determine surge,
sway and yaw motions of the whole vessel.
Build of the prototype
The prototype was designed with a strong emphasis on usability
and ergonomics. The handle placement, operation steps and weight
distribution were some key aspects in the design of the housing.
The outdoor environment and product requirements also posed some
challenges when selecting the hardware components. The whole
prototype had a weight limit of 7 kg and all components should
sit securely in the housing, so the prototype will survive
dropping etc.
The housing was 3D-printed out of a carbon fiber reinforced
nylon that can handle UV-radiation, water, impacts, ...
The device has a large LiFePO4-battery to power a 4G connection
for data transfer, a solid-state lidar scanner and the on-board
computer autonomously for 36 hours.
The prototype has magnets fitted on the bottom to hold it onto
the bollard. The idea is that port personnel will place the
prototype on a bollard at the back of the ship and only have to
press the ON-button.