Automation Pilot for BNSF Logistics Park Kansas City - Phase 1

Challenge

BNSF Railway, one of the largest railway companies in North America, aims to further increase the efficiency of its intermodal terminal network. It was the objective of the pilot to identify suitable innovative automation solutions, to implement and test them at the LPKC facility and to evaluate the outcomes. Increasing the safety level of operations and reducing operating cost have been some additional objectives of the pilot. Phase 1 of the pilot has set the basis for a successful implementation of the desired automation solutions, by integrating and specifying requirements for IT, equipment, safety, operations and civil infrastructure. HPC has been managing this approach based on its vast experience in automation projects all over the world. By defining business processes and related requirements and by focussing on the integration of the different areas from the beginning, HPC has substantially contributed to the project success.

Tasks Performed

• Framework analysis
• Development of a set of concept alternatives
• Definition of business processes for terminal operations
• Conduction of workshops
• Elaboration of a comprehensive project plan for implementation
• Conduction of initial risk analysis
• Integration of relevant sub-projects for IT, equipment, safety, operations, civil works
• Conduction of gap analysis regarding IT
• Conduction of gap analysis regarding equipment and safety
• Definition of requirements and support of procurement process

Benefit