Industry 4.0 technology will be used to ensure that Walvis Bay can compete against other ports in the region, says Victor Ashikoto, Namport ICT executive. Speaking at a media briefing in the new harbour control building, he said automation and investment in management and security systems were needed in order to handle cargo “as quickly and efficiently as possible”. “Shipping lines and trucking companies are looking for predictable and reliable service,” he said. Namport is using technology to differentiate Walvis Bay in the region by being “smarter and more efficient”. The introduction of the technology is being phased in, with the first focus being on yard management. Smart Stack, a container position recording system is designed so there are zero errors in container placement, with the rubber tyre gantries (RTGs) tracked and the twist locks will not open if the container is not in the correct position. The system will also place containers due for loading on to vessels as close to the quayside as possible, with those bound for pick-up close to the road and rail transport hubs. Namport’s Smart Rail system, which guides the RTGs on virtual rails within the port, has been upgraded. The automation of RTG operations is in the planning stage. The systems are combined under Smart Map, which gives a complete overview of operations and movements in real time. Loading operations will be sped up with the use of automation software that will automatically select the shortest route between the container and its destination on the vessel or ground. Container landing will also be automated, along with other functions such as sway and load control. Management of the bulk and breakbulk operations in the former container terminal and existing facilities are also being modernised. The introduction of the Logstar General Cargo management system started in January. It will provide the same planning and real-time management functionality as that in the container terminal, according to Ashikoto. Security in the port is being enhanced through a separate system, which will make use of smart cameras that only record when there is activity. Access control is also being automated at the truck and people entrance points. Video analytics will add another layer of security. All the operations will be controlled in an operations command centre designed to facilitate the “immediate resolution of operations issues” by having all the different stakeholders working in the same room – all with access to real-time information. The introduction of these systems will also allow Namport to provide transparent billing that bundles all charges under a single invoice, as well as online self-service facilities for port users.
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Shipping lines and trucking companies are looking for predictable and reliable service. – Victor Ashikoto
