From Challenges to Opportunities: Evolution of Yard Logistics

The Yard Lens on Edge project was launched to address these challenges. Using state-of-the-art camera technology and artificial intelligence, it aims to enable real-time monitoring of trucks and loading units at logistics yards. Julian Hinxlage, project manager at Fraunhofer IML, explains: ”We want to develop a solution that significantly improves the visibility of processes in yard logistics.”

A key component is the installation of cameras in the yard. The cameras are strategically positioned to provide complete surveillance of the entire yard area and track the movements of trucks and other objects (e.g., trailers, swap bodies, other yard vehicles) in real time. The so-called multi-view multi-object tracking technology (MV-MOT) enables the simultaneous tracking of several objects from different angles. A further step is the projection of the coordinates onto a 2D map view (mapping), which visualizes the parking spaces.

The project focuses on developing a digital twin of the entire yard. Hinxlage explains: ”By continuously collecting real data, we are creating a virtual image of the yard. This gives everyone involved – from truck drivers to yard managers – a comprehensive overview of the status and position of every single object at all times.” The system not only offers greater transparency, but also significantly increases efficiency. Delays or incorrect assignments are detected immediately, enabling quick action to be taken. The system independently identifies trucks and loading units and tracks their movements in real time. Users can create a customized yard layout via a web platform that can be easily adapted to structural changes.

The ”Yard Lens on Edge” system offers promising advantages: The cameras work accurately and reliably even in difficult lighting conditions. Thanks to markerless detection of trucks and loading units, trucks do not need to be retrofitted with identification features such as 2D codes on the roof.

An outstanding feature is the real-time processing of image and video data directly on the cameras. This not only ensures fast detection and tracking of positions, but also meets important data protection requirements, as only relevant information is processed and stored. On request, events can be archived as video or image material. 

The development of Yard Lens on Edge could have farreaching implications for the entire logistics industry. The system is not only a step toward greater efficiency, but also a significant advance in the digitalization of logistics. The improved visibility and traceability of trucks and loading units optimizes yard operations and enables challenges to be addressed proactively.

Julian Hinxlage is convinced: ”With Yard Lens on Edge, we are creating a technology that will play a central role in yard logistics not only today, but also in the future.”

The project was funded as part of the ”Silicon Economy” initiative by the German Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport (BMDV) and carried out in cooperation with various industry partners. DACHSER Group SE & Co. KG is acting as a pilot partner and enabling the practical implementation of the technology at its logistics center in Dortmund. Once the project is complete, all components will be made available as open source to enable further development and use of the technology in other logistics companies.