Automation and Optimisation

The hype surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) is anything but understated. As a new and evolving phenomenon, people’s ideas about AI often reflect their own imaginations as much as the reality of the technology itself.

The global logistics industry is at a pivotal moment. Increasing supply chain complexity and a driver shortage of 2 million by 2026 require streamlined handling processes and optimised utilisation. With increasing pressure to optimise operations and enhance efficiency, innovative solutions that leverage digitalisation are crucial.

Now more than ever, the future of terminal management systems is focused on advancements in technology, especially regarding the topics of Digital Twin, AI, and automation. The rise of Digital Twin technology marks a significant evolution in terminal operation, driven by the need for improved performance, efficiency and safety.

One of the great challenges of maritime transport is to guarantee safety both during crossings and inside the port facilities. As a nexus between the maritime and terrestrial worlds, ports and terminal operators face a complex challenge: ensuring that the entry and exit of people, vehicles, and goods are organised, efficient, and free of threats.

There are many pathways that can lead to the decarbonisation of ports and terminal operations. The challenge? Harmonising the bustling activity of freight logistics with the pressing need to reduce the environmental footprint.

The latest research progress in robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) helps autonomous driving technology become more and more applicable in daily life and industry scenarios. The robotaxi and the autonomous trucking systems are built mainly based on vehicle onboard sensors and computing units. As the operation domain on public roads involves large-scale scenarios regarding locations and objects, an intelligent vehicle must be able to make its decision with its own perception and localisation inputs.

Digital twins are one the fastest growing concepts in the container handling industry, especially with the growth of complementary technologies such as IoT and cloud. The virtual 3D replica of a terminal gives you complete visibility of the terminal environment, its equipment, container inventory and much more.

At PTI’s Container Terminal Automation Conference (CTAC) North America in November 2023, Matthew Wittemeier, representing INFORM, discussed his perspective on container terminal optimisation. With over 25 years of experience, INFORM emphasizes proven technological solutions tailored to diverse end-user requirements. Their insights shed light on the role of AI and optimisation in shaping the future of automation in port operations.

The world is in the middle of the electric revolution. The change from fossil fuel-driven machines to electric-driven has affected almost all industries in one way or another. As always with new technology, it brings new and exciting possibilities, but it also comes with the risk of misunderstandings, insecurity, and even fear, as new technology like electrified vehicles and machines replace old well-known diesel-driven alternatives.

In the dynamic realm of port development, the Port of Halifax emerges as a beacon of innovation and efficiency. Following the success of Port Technology International's Smart Digital Ports of the Future (SDP) Conference in North America last year, this Q&A with Mike Davie, Vice President of Operations & Technology at the Halifax Port Authority, unveils the port's transformative initiatives.

How can the integration of digital technologies revolutionise operations and propel ports towards a more streamlined and resilient future? Exploring the transformative potential of digitalisation, PTI delved into the prospects of enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability at the Port of Tyne during the Maritime Innovation Week in November 2023, hosted at the 2050 Maritime Innovation Hub in the North East and at the BT Tower in central London.

In the wake of Port Technology International's Container Terminal Automation Conference (CTAC) North America 2023, this Q&A delves into the forefront of port development, specifically focusing on connectivity. Here, we illuminate the seamless integration of Nokia's digitalisation solutions into the evolution of conventional port operations.