Smart technologies help to make data-driven decisions, but they require a reliable network. High-speed internet and reliable networks are necessary to facilitate communication across port technologies and to the people operating them.
Ports need high-level bandwidth to handle large quantities of data and transfer this between sensors and devices. 5G networks are ideal as they offer average speeds of around 50mbps (although this varies with the available spectrum), which can support things including video streaming.
In ports, video streaming may be necessary to monitor port movements or for AR and VR-based applications. Low latency is also essential for real-time data transmission. In ports, the increasing deployment of remote and autonomous operations (for example, remote crane operation) requires the equipment handler to receive feedback immediately to avoid error. Low latency facilitates rapid transfer of information between the sensors onboard the machinery and the user. When it comes to equipment maintenance, low latency enables smooth and rapid data sharing between sensors and people, driving more timely interventions.
Low latency is also necessary for a continuous flow of visual information used in AR and VR technologies. AR and VR require the user to wear a headset that generates a constant flow of information between the headset and the real-world environment. This flow needs to be seamless and free from lags. If not, it makes it beyond difficult for the user to interact with their environment effectively. In port environments, there are a huge number of sensors and IoT devices that rely on the network. For instance to monitor equipment, track ships and/or containers, and monitor emissions. The network needs to be able to support thousands or even tens of thousands of sensors and devices. 5G in particular can support hundreds of thousands of IoT device connections within a single kilometer, while WiFi handles up to hundreds of device connections. For Terminal Operations Systems (TOS), this connectivity enables a seamless connection between mobile and central applications.
Case Study- Tuas Mega Port commits to 5G following successful trials.
In 2019, the Port of Singapore Authority (PSA) embarked on a 5G trial to automate parts of its operations, specifically at the new Tuas Mega Port. This port is due to open in stages, and once completed by 2040, aims to be the world’s single largest automated container terminal. 5G trials were deployed to improve the fleet control and management of Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs), automated Rubber Tire Gantry (RTG), and Empty Container Handlers (ECH). A 5G standalone architecture (SA) network was deployed by Singtel at PSA’s Pasir Panjang Terminal to support this.
According to Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA), the AGVs are currently 4G enabled, meaning they struggle to perform as optimally as possible. The lower latency, compared with 5G, causes the AGVs to receive information periodically rather than in real-time as required. This presented manoeuvring challenges for the AGVs when navigating in the port. As a result, the port was required to allocate more space than required for the safe operation of the AGVs.
For a more in-depth understanding of the topics covered in this article, refer to our report in partnership with Ericsson, Getting Ports to Net Zero. This comprehensive guide provides an introduction to port emissions reduction and why advanced networks such as 5G must be considered as part of the journey to net zero.
