Outrider boosts outdoor YARD operation with new patent for its AI-powered autonomous system

Outrider Technologies Inc. has announced its acquisition of a critical new patent, which focuses on enhancing the safety and precision of autonomous trailer movements under various weather conditions.

Titled "Systems and Methods for Determining an Articulated Trailer Angle," this patent is a key advancement in the field of autonomous vehicle technology, particularly for self-driving tractors tasked with trailer maneuvering.

Andrew Smith, the founder and CEO of Outrider, emphasized the significance of this patent in the context of their broader mission to revolutionize logistics yard operations.

Since its inception in 2017, Outrider has been committed to transforming the traditional, labor-intensive yard management processes through automation, aiming to dramatically increase efficiency, safety, and sustainability across the global supply chain.

This patent is part of Outrider's extensive portfolio, which targets numerous innovative solutions developed to automate the myriad of manual and repetitive tasks within challenging yard environments.

Outrider's systems are designed to autonomously navigate complex environments, effectively manage trailer inventory, and ensure precise docking operations. These systems employ autonomous fifth wheel movement for hitching and unhitching trailers, as well as for connecting and disconnecting brake lines.

Furthermore, Outrider's TrailerConnect technology uses a robotic arm for rapid, efficient connection and disconnection of air brake and electrical lines to both modified and unmodified semi-trailers and chassis.

In addition to yard operations, Outrider's innovations extend to loading dock procedures. The company's autonomous yard trucks are equipped to communicate with proprietary dock door safety systems to verify readiness for loading or unloading, facilitating a seamless integration between the internal and external aspects of warehouse operations.

This capability is further enhanced by modifications that allow for the opening and resealing of swing doors on trailers and shipping containers, maintaining the integrity of the cargo during processing.

As of now, Outrider has successfully executed tens of thousands of autonomous trailer moves for various industries including package shipping, consumer packaged goods, automotive manufacturing, retail, e-commerce, and intermodal transport.

Looking forward, Outrider plans to commence commercial shipments of its advanced systems in the latter half of 2024, marking a significant step towards widespread adoption of its innovative technologies in the logistics and transportation sectors.

This move is likely to further cement Outrider's position as a leader in the automation of manual, repetitive tasks within inhospitable yard environments, revolutionizing the landscape of global supply chain management.

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