INTEGRATED AUTOMATED TERMINAL OPERATIONS

摘要

The term Integrated Automated Terminal (IAT) is a proprietary term coined in 1986 to describe a new generation of multi-purpose intermodal transshipment facilities that combine materials handling devices and robotics with advanced computer communications and control technology. The concept for the IAT was developed from a perceived need in the transportation industry to improve transshipment productivity and to reduce excessive capital investment in containers, transportation equipment, and port facilities. IATs seek out selected markets and correct their transshipment inefficiencies. The Matsystem, an example of an IAT-type application, is designed to handle up to 60 moves per hour and features a container conveyor device that continuously feeds the container crane so that the yard gantry crane can function independently. The Matsystem complex in Los Angeles in designed to handle 2,400 gate transactions a day. The first green field IAT design in the U.S. will combine U.S. and European technology and will involve the application of advanced conveyor technology. There are other applications for IAT technology under study which will focus on specific markets. IAT systems will appeal to private investors. Public port authorities are another source of capital for IAT construction. New IAT development and emerging market niches that attract purpose-designed facilities will increase the difficulty of long-range port planning. Future port strategies will include facilities that specialize in: load center container ports; specialized container ports; market niche breakbulk/neobulk ports; and multi-use industrial ports.