Technical Papers

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 global supply chain, a dynamic web connecting the farthest reaches of the world, orchestrates the movement of goods with precision and efficiency. Within this complex environment, international ports serve as gateways and nerve centres through which the ecosystem is orchestrated, thereby ensuring the seamless flow of commerce across borders.

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 intricate tapestry of global commerce, where the seamless transit of goods in containers forms the new standard, the role of container breach detection devices emerges as both pivotal and prescient. These devices, far from being mere technical fixtures, serve as a crucial line of defense against illicit activities such as the theft of goods, the smuggling of contraband and the infestation of narcotics.

Since the terrorist events of 11 September 2001, the attention of port managers and others has shifted to matters of port security, whether sea or air. Indeed, security and safety assurance across maritime trading systems has become a critical and ongoing factor for international business managers and international trade.

The world of work is changing. COVID-19, automation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), monopolies, war, the massive accumulation of capital and anti-union laws make the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) representing over 18 million transport workers in 150 countries indispensable in the struggle to protect and advance workers’ rights in the maritime industry.

Historically, ports involved manual handling in general cargo terminals, posing physical challenges for workers. Today's ports feature diverse terminals, including containers, dry bulk, liquid bulk, RoRo, etc. operated with modern equipment and digitised control systems.

By understanding where critical health and safety risks are in the cargo sector, we can better manage them. ICHCA has been collating publicly available information from around the world on the most severe consequences of personal workplace accidents in cargo handling. If we can learn lessons once and make sure that they stay learned, then our people get to go home in the same condition that they started their shift.

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.