Smart technology anchors the future of container shipping

Many container ports are investing in infrastructure upgrades to handle larger vessels, increase capacity, and improve overall operations, however, challenges persist. 

Congestion, inadequate infrastructure and the increasing complexity of global supply chains continue to lead to delays, increased costs, supply disruptions and, in some cases, safety risks. Overcoming these challenges will involve a significant transformation – with the integration of internet of things technologies playing a pivotal role. 

While leading ports such as Rotterdam and Singapore demonstrate the potential of advanced digitalisation, many others remain heavily reliant on traditional, labour-intensive operations. The reality, while the Ports 4.0 concept promises a radical transformation, is likely to unfold as a more gradual and incremental process for most ports. 

Advanced piloting software is driving new levels of precision to support safer, more efficient operations. When used in combination with portable piloting units there is opportunity to improve accuracy to levels of 1 cm. The integration and filtering of information related to vessel movement data, charts, weather forecasts, AIS and tug positions mean pilots can make faster, smarter decisions.  

Enhancing berthing and mooring operations is also essential due to their significant impact on efficiency and safety. Traditional mooring systems, which rely on ropes, are time-consuming and hazardous, posing a considerable risk of accidents. 

Rope-free mooring systems offer a transformative solution, though adoption will be gradual. These systems use vacuum technology to quickly secure vessels at berth, reducing motion from external forces and providing real-time data to enhance productivity. 

Although this represents a new way of working, the benefits are significant. A recent study found vacuum mooring technology notably reduced surge and sway for a container vessel, increasing berth operability from 65% to 95%. These improvements limit personnel involvement, reduce human error, enhance safety and drastically cut fuel consumption and emissions. Another study, conducted by Trelleborg, showed how mooring times could be reduced from 50 minutes to three minutes, using 12 vacuum mooring pads over two years.

Fenders: into the future 

Fenders are the unsung heroes of safe, efficient container terminals. A major shift in best practices for fender design is highlighted by the latest guidelines from PIANC – WG211 – encouraging an integrated approach that positions fender systems as a vital component of marine infrastructure. The guidelines offer comprehensive recommendations, highlighting the need for rigorous testing, site-specific data, and a holistic approach that covers the application, engineering, design, fabrication, testing, installation and maintenance of fender systems. 

Fenders of the future will become smarter, capable of collecting precise berthing data to improve the accuracy and speed of berthing operations. This data capability will help optimise fender design, lower costs and extend the service life of these assets through improved inspection processes and maintenance schedules. 

To advance this, Trelleborg is prototyping smart fenders at two ports this year – one in the Middle East and one in Europe – with the goal of supplying smart fenders to its customers by 2025. These fenders will be equipped to capture berthing data, aiding in maintenance and influencing future designs. Additionally, Trelleborg’s fenders will feature QR codes to provide operators with easy access to information about the system, including manufacturing, design and maintenance, as well as sending reminders for scheduled inspections. 

As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the adoption of advanced digitalisation and innovative infrastructure solutions will be crucial in overcoming the challenges faced by the container sector. By embracing scalable technologies such as vacuum mooring systems and smart fenders, ports can significantly enhance efficiency, safety and productivity.