QNX OS for Safety has been deployed by FERNRIDE, to enhance the reliability and security of its safety-critical autonomous terminal tractor solution.
FERNRIDE is transforming operations in container terminals, where efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness are paramount.
With the global demand for streamlined logistics on the rise, container terminals are adopting advanced technologies to address challenges such as labor shortages, tight delivery schedules and the need for 24/7 operations.
In response, FERNRIDE has developed an autonomous terminal tractor solution, pioneering the path towards compliance with the European Machinery Directive (Directive 2006/42/EC) and EU Declaration of Conformity (CE Marking) in the field of autonomous logistics.
With foundational embedded software from QNX, FERNRIDE has since been able to accelerate its development efforts, moving closer to these milestones.
“Safety is a non-negotiable priority at FERNRIDE,” said John Hughes, Sr. Engineering Manager at FERNRIDE.
“As a next milestone, we will remove the safety driver from the cabin of our autonomous terminal tractors to unlock the path to scaling with our customers. To do this, we need to authoritatively prove that the entire system is safe. Choosing a certified operating system means we are able to shorten the timeline for getting the entire technology stack for our solution certified. It is important for us to be mindful of our resources without compromising the quality of the outcome.”
Certified to ISO 26262 ASIL D, QNX OS for Safety provides a robust foundation for developing and deploying advanced automotive solutions, while allowing customers to meet stringent EU safety compliance regulations.
Using QNX OS for Safety meant FERNRIDE could meet the high standards of functional safety and focus their efforts on innovation, instead of certifying their operating system.
“We are proud to collaborate with FERNRIDE to deliver its cutting-edge autonomous solution, especially at a time when the logistics industry is urgently seeking ways to reduce costs while not compromising on meeting safety goals,” said Grant Courville, SVP Products and Strategy at QNX.
“By leveraging the capabilities of safety certified software and engineering services, FERNRIDE is helping to drive the future of autonomy and empowering their customers to achieve next-level efficiency and safety. This collaboration demonstrates our commitment to working with companies at the forefront of innovation who prioritize safety, security, reliability, and performance.”
QNX OS for Safety is POSIX-compliant, making it easy for developers who are used to Linux to make the switch to QNX.
For FERNRIDE, it meant their developers were up and running on QNX quickly, making it an ideal choice for developing their solution that included both a safety component based on QNX and a non-safety component based on Linux.
They were able to meet their deadlines efficiently, with the confidence that their critical system maintained the highest safety standards, accelerating their time to market.
