One of the largest challenges for automated storage yards is that
they need to be synchronized with the container transport operation.
Two new types of technology allow the storage yard operations
to be asynchronous with the transport operations. A new
Lift-AGV, developed by Gottwald (2013), uses electrically operated
lifting platforms that enable the AGVs to raise (or lower) containers
automatically to pick up (deposit) them to a frame. A new type of
self-lifting automated straddle carrier, called Autostrads, could
influence container terminals to return to straddle carrier layouts.
This type of straddle carrier is used at Patrick container terminal in
Brisbane, Australia. Another development in the storage yard is the
multi-lift spreader for gantry cranes and the twin capacity straddle
carrier. These technologies allow MHE to handle more than one
container at the same time.