Hiab Unveils Advanced Technology for the Future of Autonomous Load Handling

CARGOTEC CORPORATION, TRADE PRESS RELEASE, 9 OCTOBER 2024 AT 13:00 PM EEST 

Hiab Unveils Advanced Technology for the Future of Autonomous Load Handling

Hiab, part of Cargotec, is transforming the industry with the launch of its new autonomous load handling capabilities for MULTILIFT demountables - the L2 Driver Support assistance technology. This innovation marks a significant leap forward in automated operations, aligning with Hiab’s strategic commitment to enhancing safety, efficiency, and addressing the growing shortage of experienced drivers in the transport industry.

The introduction of these advanced driver assistance features aims to simplify the process of loading and unloading containers and cargo bodies, which typically require significant skill and precision. By automating complex manoeuvres such as reversing and positioning, Hiab is offering a solution that reduces the risk of errors and accidents while increasing overall operational efficiency.

“At Hiab, we are focused on providing innovative solutions that help our customers overcome the daily challenges of modern logistics,” said Hannu Hyttinen, Director of R&D at Hiab. “With our new autonomous capabilities, we’re bringing a level of support that will enhance safety and ease of operation, particularly in industries facing driver shortages and high demand for efficient deliveries.”

Figure: The L2 Driver Support feature automatically reverses the truck into position, aligning it with the front of the container for pickup. The driver initiates the process with the push of a button and monitors the safety of the intended operation via the augmented view on in-cabin screen. The feature utilises the truck’s off-the-shelf motion control interface.

Safer, Smarter Operations
Hiab’s new L2 Driver Support feature automates one of the most difficult aspects of load handling - reversing the vehicle into the optimal position for loading or unloading. The L2 Driver Support feature is equipped with robust safety protocols, adhering to international standards like ISO 26262 and aligning with the EU’s General Safety Regulation. This ensures that the technology is not only efficient but also meets the highest safety requirements for road operations. By reducing the need for manual precision and eliminating common errors, Hiab’s solution helps safeguard both the driver and surrounding assets from potential damage during complex load-handling tasks.

Another Step Towards an Autonomous Future
Hiab is a leader in automation solutions in the truck equipment industry. As early as 2019, Hiab launched HiVision for MULTILIFT hooklifts that can detect containers for guidance to reversing and lifting. In addition, Hiab designed and implemented the steering system for a self-driving truck in 2020. Hiab’s new L2 Driver Support technology is laying the foundation for further advancements in autonomous load handling. As the industry continues to evolve, Hiab remains at the forefront of innovation, developing solutions that complement the autonomous vehicle technologies emerging from leading truck Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

Further information:

Hannu Hyttinen, Director R&D, Hiab

E-mail: hannu.hyttinen@hiab.com

Rory Pedd, VP Sales and Product Management, Demountables & Defence, Hiab

E-mail: rory.pedd@hiab.com

Anu-Maaria Vaalama, Communications Director, Hiab

E-mail: anumaaria.vaalama@hiab.com

About Hiab

Hiab is a leading provider of smart and sustainable load handling solutions. We are committed to delivering the best customer experience every day with the most engaged people and partners. Hiab's premium equipment includes HIAB, EFFER and ARGOS loader cranes, MOFFETT and PRINCETON truck mounted forklifts, LOGLIFT forestry cranes, JONSERED recycling cranes, MULTILIFT skiploaders and hooklifts, GALFAB roll-off cable hoists, tail lifts under the ZEPRO, DEL and WALTCO brands, and HIPERFORM, a suite of smart solutions. As the industry pioneer, Hiab continues to make load handling smarter, safer and more sustainable to build a better tomorrow. Hiab is part of Cargotec Corporation. www.hiab.com  

Hiab is part of Cargotec Corporation. Cargotec's (Nasdaq Helsinki: CGCBV) sales in 2023 totalled approximately EUR 2.5 billion and it employs over 6,000 people. www.cargotec.com