The digitization of seaports

One of the most popular digitalization measures is the automation of cranes and the possibility of remote control. The benefits of this application are manifold: on one hand, labor is saved since experienced crane operators are rare to find and costly, on the other hand, safety is increased, as a remotely controlled or fully automated crane system does not require workers to climb up and down. Furthermore, the time spent climbing up and down from the cockpit is eliminated, allowing for more freedom of movement, such as the possibility of taking a restroom break - typically, workers are forced to take their break at the end of their shift.

For secure remote control, an appropriate embedded computer must be installed in the crane cockpit. It must be able to establish a connection to multiple cameras via USB or PoE ports, allowing the crane operator to view the container to be loaded from various angles and remotely control the crane's correct approach angle. Since power supply in the crane is limited, the system should have a wide power supply range and ensure that all operating functions withstand possible temperature fluctuations and weather conditions in the cockpit. Resistance to shock and vibration loads is also important.

Autonomous transport of containers

To complete the unloading process of containers, another important process optimization is required in seaports: container transport. Similar to crane operators, in the previous methods, a driver on the transport vehicle had to bring the container to the designated location. Past digitization attempts involved the use of magnetically guided vehicles. However, implementing such a system requires a massive overhaul of the port to install thousands of magnets, thus requiring annual maintenance. Therefore, today, the removal of unloaded containers is carried out by intelligent, driverless transport vehicles (Intelligent Guided Vehicles or IGVs), equipped with cameras, sensors, LiDARs, and radars, enabling them to automatically approach, avoid objects along the way, and unload the transported container at the designated location. This IGV carrier system knows exactly when and which container has been picked up and dropped off before returning to pick up the next container. All this data is transmitted to the main computer in the control room for documentation.

The requirements for an embedded PC in this application area resemble those of a vehicle computer. The connection of sensors, LiDARs, cameras, and wireless communication modules, resistance to shock and vibration loads, as well as protection to IP67 standards, are among the key factors in implementing such hardware. BRESSNER Technology offers a range of corresponding embedded systems suitable for demanding environments in the maritime sector.

Source: Neousys Technology - Seaport Automation

The combined effect of the two automation systems provides additional safety, efficiency, and savings in both time and costs in port transport. By employing artificial intelligence at all points of the logistics value chain, companies across all industries benefit.