Spring 2006

Transport and distribution centre operators with busy yard operations can now see a real-time simulation of their yard and the equipment in it on a computer screen, thanks to the latest component to be added to the GateSuite system from Unisto.

Operatives in the yard or the warehouse can also see the location and status of all the equipment in the system on handheld terminals, instead of having the information relayed by voice or text.

The simulation system is called YardTrak, and can operate in stand-alone mode as well as within the company's established GateSuite system. It integrates with RFID transponders on trailers and tractors, using RFID readers around the yard, gatehouse and so on. The company says it ensures that trailers are on the right dock at the right time, and are shunted to the correct waiting bay.

Temperatures and other functions can also be monitored, and integration with Unisto's existing Encrypta RFID-enabled security seals adds a security dimension to the tracking.

The company's other new system, iTrak, uses Wi-Fi wireless networking to deliver all the information in GateSuite to handheld terminals running the iTrak application, whether in the yard or in a neighbouring warehouse.

GateSuite as a whole has expanded steadily in functionality, and is now said to allow users to manage loading docks, goods-in and goods-out activities, tractors, trailers, maintenance schedules, drivers, shunter operations and gatehouse security.