A system and method for loading railcars of a train wherein the railcars are provided with upper lids having latches for securing the lids in a closed position. The system comprises at least one sensing system for determining the position of the latches and the lids in order for one or more robot arms to perform operations such as unlatching, latching, lid opening and lid closing. At least one velocity sensor measures individual railcar velocity rather than overall train speed to enable engagement of the one or more robotic arms, as adjacent railcars may move at differing velocities due to slack in the connections between them.

A system and method for loading railcars of a train wherein the railcars are provided with upper lids having latches for securing the lids in a closed position. The system comprises at least one sensing system for determining the position of the latches and the lids in order for one or more robot arms to perform operations such as unlatching, latching, lid opening and lid closing. At least one velocity sensor measures individual railcar velocity rather than overall train speed to enable engagement of the one or more robotic arms, as adjacent railcars may move at differing velocities due to slack in the connections between them.