In an innovative stride towards the integration of autonomous technology in logistics, Dai-Sei Logistics Co., part of the Dai-Sei Group, has commenced a groundbreaking trial on autonomous mobility in partnership with Tokai Clarion Co. This initiative, taking place at the Saitama R&D Center in Sugito, Saitama Prefecture, aims to assess the safety and operational efficiency of self-driving vehicles within a logistics environment.
Overview of the Demonstration Experiment
The demonstration employs a golf cart-like vehicle equipped with the 'YADOCAR-i Drive', an advanced autonomous driving system developed by Tokai Clarion. Testing will occur primarily within the facility and surrounding areas of the Sugito R&D Center.
The experiments will focus on various safety and operational tests, including sensor validation while stationary and real autonomous driving assessments. Planned activities include performing figure-eight maneuvers, straight-line driving tests, and emergency braking tests using colored cones, allowing the team to evaluate the vehicle's safety mechanisms and sensor recognition capabilities.
Moreover, as the vehicle is registered with a license plate, it will also be capable of operating on public roads, enabling further validation of its sensors in real-world conditions. The trials aim to explore the potential applications of this technology within the logistics community, such as transporting documents and small items between multiple logistics facilities in the Sugito area. Scheduled to run for about a year, the tests will take place roughly once a week, providing invaluable data on the feasibility of autonomous technology in logistics operations.
Background and Objectives
The logistics industry is increasingly challenged by labor shortages and the need for enhanced operational efficiency, leading to a growing interest in automation and advanced safety technologies. However, there are very few opportunities to conduct continuous testing of such technologies in environments that closely resemble actual logistics operations.
After thorough discussions about the possibilities of practical testing within logistics facilities, Dai-Sei Logistics and Tokai Clarion have launched this initiative. Dai-Sei Logistics operates several logistics facilities in the Sugito area, where daily activities include the movement of goods and small shipments. This experiment is set to investigate the practical application of autonomous technologies and sensor technologies in limited areas designed for logistics.
The joint effort between Dai-Sei Logistics and Tokai Clarion will contribute significantly to exploring the potential benefits of implementing autonomous technology within logistics environments, marking a pivotal step in modernizing the logistics industry's operational strategies.
About Dai-Sei Logistics
As a central logistics company in the Dai-Sei Group, Dai-Sei Logistics specializes in food transport, collaborative delivery, third-party logistics (3PL), and apparel logistics. They focus on providing comprehensive logistics solutions that not only involve transportation but also efficiently connect procurement, production, sales, and logistics activities for businesses. With approximately 30 locations across ten prefectures in the Kanto region, the company has established a robust logistics framework.
About Tokai Clarion
Tokai Clarion specializes in the development, sales, installation, and maintenance of safety equipment for large trucks, trailers, and commercial vehicles. They provide solutions tailored to address challenges in transportation management and accident prevention. Their offerings include measures for preventing accidents, AI detection systems, and communication-type drive recorders, adapting safety measures to meet the specific needs of the industry.