HMS Networks partners with BTG for networking capabilities in container ports

Cranes at dock
Cranes at dock

HMS Networks, a leading provider of industrial communication solutions, has announced a new collaboration with BTG, a Dutch company specializing in position measurement systems for cranes and vehicles in automated container terminals. The partnership will enable BTG to expand its networking capabilities by integrating HMS Networks’ Anybus CompactCom into its products.

HMS Networks and BTG have announced a partnership that will enable BTG to expand its networking capabilities by integrating HMS Networks’ Anybus CompactCom into its products, improving the efficiency of automated container ports worldwide.

 BTG's IRM Spreader Measurement Sensor consists of a transmitter and a receiver. The Anybus CompactCom B40 was embedded into the receiver.
BTG’s IRM Spreader Measurement Sensor consists of a transmitter and a receiver. The Anybus CompactCom B40 was embedded into the receiver.

BTG’s positioning measurement systems are instrumental in enhancing container port efficiency. They allow automated cranes to transfer cargo from ships to automated guided vehicles. However, the networking required to transfer real-time data in such complex and demanding environments can be challenging. BTG can integrate networking technology directly into its products using the Anybus CompactCom. Furthermore, this will allow for seamless communication across multiple industrial networks like PROFIBUS, PROFINET, and CANopen.

The embedded design of Anybus CompactCom brings benefits like easy installation, legacy equipment reuse, and harsh marine environment handling. Additionally, the CompactCom provides high-performance data exchange that can handle even the most demanding synchronized motion applications.

“We are excited to collaborate with BTG to bring the benefits of Anybus CompactCom to their position measurement systems,” said Markus Bladh, Product Manager at HMS Networks. “Our solution will allow BTG to expand their networking capabilities and improve the efficiency of automated container ports worldwide.”

Daan Potters, Chief Operating Officer at BTG, added: “We have a lot of experience and knowledge with position measurement systems in tough industrial environments, but we are not experts in industrial networks. Consequently, that’s why we turned to Anybus. The CompactCom B40 meets our networking needs, compatible with required networks, and provides real-time communication for position measurement systems. Anybus also provided excellent support to help us to implement the CompactCom B40 as quickly as possible.”