Leveraging Vodafone’s 5G network, the Port of Aveiro can monitor and manage its load in real time through digital replication solutions and virtual reality and augmented reality applications and devices.
These technological innovations, which will be implemented in collaboration with Ericsson and used by port operators, will help reduce the environmental footprint of operations and improve the efficiency, safety and profitability of operations.
This project consists of a proof of concept for Cargo Management which, based on a state-of-the-art 5G private network, special logistics software and high definition cameras, started to be implemented in May in one of the warehouses of the Multipurpose Terminal of the Port of Aveiro and will offer port operators significant advantages in the location, transportation and storage of cargo in what is one of the five largest ports in the country.
The solution developed by Ericsson is based on technologies studied and tested as part of the Corealis port project, under the European Horizon 2020 programme. This solution has been widely recognized in the sector at various international events for its positive impact on sustainability, energy efficiency and CO2 reduction. It is based on a dedicated 5G Stand Alone Core and integrates 5G sensors with a range of innovative software applications that, on Vodafone’s 5G network, enable a complete, efficient and sustainable operation of the port terminal.
On the one hand, operators can identify the position of all cargo in a designated area of the terminal in real time through a special application. In addition, with the help of an Expert System and tablets with augmented reality, they can supervise the loading and storage of cargo. A third innovation is the delivery of a digital twin, a real-time replica of the terminal built with information gathered from the load, load plan, freight and vehicles. In addition to using a specialized logistics algorithm to organize and position cargo, virtual reality glasses will make it possible to simulate a full loading operation, verify the cargo and its position, and determine the best strategy for the operation. to define.
This use case will put the characteristics of the 5G network – high transmission speed, high data throughput, low latency and high reliability and security – at the service of the efficiency, competitiveness and sustainability of one of the most important Portuguese seaports. After completion of the project, a report will follow with the conclusions of the additional benefits of using this solution.
Henrique Fonseca, Administrator responsible for the Corporate Business Unit at Vodafone Portugal
The solution installed in the port of Aveiro will allow those who are at the forefront of Portuguese exports every day to experience the real benefits of a 5G network. powerful, reliable and flexible like Vodafone. By streamlining its tasks and expanding its activities, our network makes a clear contribution to one of the nerve centers of the national economy and opens the way for other operators wishing to implement differentiated solutions.
Gema Brea Ibáñez de Gauna, Sales Director at Ericsson
Ports and shipping are vital for the proper functioning of a global economy. The digital transformation of this industry represents a unique opportunity for Portugal, and private 5G networks will enable it to accelerate. Thanks to Ericsson’s most innovative solutions and Vodafone’s 5G network, the port of Aveiro will become one of the most modern in the country, with fast, secure and reliable mobile connectivity opening up new opportunities to be a forerunner of a sustainable future.