Crane OCR Retrofit: Fitting Existing Cranes of Any Make
A crane OCR retrofit adds container reading to cranes that are already working, so a terminal does not have to replace equipment to get automatic records. This guide explains why retrofitting is possible on cranes of different makes and what to check before work starts.
Key takeaways
- Crane OCR can be fitted to existing cranes of different makes and operating modes.
- A site survey comes first, because each crane has its own structure and layout.
- The system links to the crane controller to know when a lift starts and ends.
- Plan the fitting around the terminal’s working schedule.
Why fit crane OCR to cranes already in service
Most terminals run a mix of cranes bought at different times. Replacing them to add automation is rarely practical. A crane OCR retrofit lets the terminal keep its cranes and still record every container move automatically, with fewer people working under the load.
Cranes of different makes and operating modes
Quay cranes, RTGs and RMGs are built differently and are worked in different ways. The camera positions, mounting points and cabling routes are planned for each type. Our guide to crane OCR for yard cranes covers the yard side.
| Crane type | Typical focus of the fit |
|---|---|
| Quay crane | Cameras cover the spreader and the container as it crosses the berth |
| RTG | Cameras cover the lift and the stack position |
| RMG | Cameras cover the lift along the rail-mounted span |
Checks to make before fitting crane OCR
- Survey the crane for camera positions, power and cable routes.
- Confirm how the crane controller can share lift signals.
- Decide which terminal system will receive the data.
- Agree access windows with the operations team.
The steps from survey to commissioning are set out in crane OCR installation: survey, mounting and commissioning.
Keeping crane downtime short during the fit
Cranes earn their keep when they are lifting, so work is usually planned in short windows, with preparation done in advance. Cabling and bracket work can often be prepared before the crane is taken out of service.
Planning a crane OCR retrofit with Suraj Informatics
Suraj Informatics provides crane OCR services for existing cranes of many makes. Send us your crane list and we will propose a fitting plan.
Crane OCR retrofit: common questions
Can crane OCR be added to old cranes?
Often yes. A survey confirms where cameras and cables can go and how to connect to the controller.
Do cranes need to be replaced?
No. The point of a retrofit is to keep the existing cranes.
Does a retrofit stop crane operations?
Some downtime is needed. It can be kept short by preparing the work in advance.
Can different crane types be mixed?
Yes. Each crane gets a layout that suits its type and site.
Talk to our crane OCR team
Tell us about your cranes and current checking process, and we will suggest the right OCR setup.
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