The introduction of modern technologies in the work of the port allows to maximize the efficiency of its work. “Smart ports” technologies are actively used all over the world today.
What is included in this concept? There are many components here:
— Use of cameras and sensors
— Application of 3D models
— Use of unmanned vessels
— Smart contracts on the blockchain
— Internet of Things
— Green and energy saving technologies
All this in sum is often controlled by artificial intelligence (AI).
The system collects data from all cameras and sensors, based on which a 3D model is built. In addition, the right employees are notified in a timely manner if there are problems somewhere — for example, a crane failure or a blockage from ships for unloading.
AI is able to solve many issues on its own: for example, assign a specific berth to each ship, depending on its workload.
Where is it implemented in practice?
A famous example is the Belgian port of Antwerp.
In 2019, blockchain-based document processing was started there, in 2020, during the pandemic, bracelets were used to control the observance of social distance by workers.
In 2021, a 3D model of the entire port was created, which allows real-time monitoring of how work is progressing at each section.
A big role is given to cameras, which are able not only to capture the video sequence, but also to recognize objects in the frame: types of vehicles, tare weight, water quality at the docks.
Finally, in 2022, unmanned cranes appeared, which are also controlled by AI and are able to perform the necessary operations much faster than with traditional methods.
China is not far behind, it has at least 3 ports in which “smart technologies” are actively used.
For example, the port in Xiamen is completely controlled by AI, and all data is transmitted at high speed through the 5G network.
The port of Qingdao also has an automatic loading system that provides high speed cargo handling — up to 30 TEU per hour.
In other Chinese ports, for example, wind generation systems are used, which ensure its energy independence.
What is available in Russia?
To date, the Vladivostok Commercial Sea Port (VMTP) has been largely automated. An automated loading and unloading system has been created there, and dockers have electronic tablets for quickly entering information about cargoes into the database.
In the near future, it is planned to use the technology of unmanned vessels. All this together can greatly speed up almost all processes occurring in the port.
