Robust positioning for PSA port logistics
A specialized Straddle Carrier GNSS Receiver has been developed by MGB-Tech, based on the compact mosaic GNSS module
Containers move across the port via straddle carriers, which use Straddle Carrier GNSS Receiver (SCGR) units for reliable and accurate positioning. PSA Antwerp was already using receiver units based on Septentrio technology in their straddle carriers at the Port of Antwerp. MGB-Tech, a long-term Septentrio partner specializing in customized positioning solutions, designed and developed an upgraded version of these units.
Leveraging Septentrio GNSS technology, the updated SCGR units retain full functionality. Sensors on the straddle carrier detect every pick-up and drop-off event, while the precise location of each container is transmitted in real time to the client backend system. This enables continuous monitoring and efficient management of container movements throughout port operations.
Port environments are challenging for GNSS positioning because large structures block line-of-sight visibility of satellites and reflect GNSS signals, a phenomenon known as multipath.
Port environments present unique positioning challenges
Large metal structures, stacked containers, cranes and moving equipment can partially obstruct satellite signals and create reflections that affect GNSS performance. In these demanding conditions, reliable positioning is essential to ensure that container locations remain accurate and operational workflows continue uninterrupted.
By combining MGB-Tech’s application expertise with Septentrio’s compact mosaic-X5 GNSS module technology, PSA Antwerp benefits from a robust positioning solution that supports efficient container tracking even in challenging port environments.
GNSS Receiver for Straddle Carriers
‘As integrators, we know that we can rely on the high-performance standard of Septentrio receivers. Also, the Septentrio tool kit remains unparalleled in the market. The available tools are highly comprehensive and allow us to deploy and troubleshoot the positioning components of our products in depth.’
– Gerrit Van Damme, Key Account Technical Lead, MGB-Tech
MGB-Tech’s long-standing partnership with Septentrio has enabled the company to build extensive expertise in GNSS-based solutions. When an updated positioning solution was required, MGB-Tech delivered a re-tailored product in less than three months, helping ensure uninterrupted operations for PSA Antwerp while maintaining dependable positioning performance.
This GNSS Receiver for Straddle Carriers is compact and offers robust positioning with Septentrio’s latest GNSS positioning solution.
Why Septentrio receiver for PSA Antwerp positioning solution
- Multi-frequency GNSS support, for more robust positioning performance, helping maintain reliable location data in challenging port environments.
- APME+ multipath mitigation technology to reduce the impact of reflected GNSS signals commonly caused by containers, cranes and large metal structures.
- LOCK+ technology for robust satellite tracking during shocks and vibrations
- Built-in web user interface and RxTools software for easy integration and configuration.
Why MGB-Tech positioning hardware for GNSS straddle carrier receivers
- Custom SCGR Replication: Successfully redesigned specialized legacy SCGR units when the original manufacturer stopped production.
- Rapid Deployment: Delivered a high-performance positioning product in less than three months.
- Zero Downtime: Guarded PSA Antwerp’s operations by providing a seamless hardware transition.
- Deep Integration Expertise: Leveraged long-standing Septentrio tool kit knowledge for deep-dive optimization and rapid troubleshooting.
About PSA Antwerp
PSA Antwerp is the second flagship within the PSA Group. PSA Antwerp operates three container terminals in the Port of Antwerp: Noordzee Terminal, Europa Terminal, and the MSC PSA European Terminal (MPET), a joint venture with TIL. They also operate the PSA Breakbulk Terminal, where they handle general cargo, including steel and project cargo, as well as PSA Zeebrugge, a multifunctional terminal in Zeebrugge active in RoRo and paper logistics.
About Septentrio
Septentrio, part of Hexagon, is an ISO 9001 certified manufacturer of high-precision multi-frequency multi-constellation GPS/GNSS positioning technology for demanding applications. Septentrio provides reliable centimetre-level positioning solutions for industrial applications such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), robotics, construction and mining, survey and mapping, maritime, logistics and scientific applications.
Septentrio has its headquarters in Leuven, Belgium and has a worldwide presence with offices in Los Angeles, Shanghai, Seoul and Yokohama as well as numerous partners around the world. To learn more about Septentrio and its products, visit septentrio.com or follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter and GitHub.