Dr. Mohamed Rahmah, VP – Ports and Terminals Systems at DP World, explains how they are one of the key players in the ports and terminals market for smart solutions technology…
In today’s era of pervasive smart devices and cutting-edge technology, the concept of digital twins is fast gaining prominence. However, many people need to be made aware of what digital twins are and their role in the advancement of digitisation.
In its most basic form, a digital twin is a virtual model designed to accurately reflect a physical object. The object, which is being virtually copied, is fitted with sensors related to its functionality. This can range from its core functions down to the most precise details. These sensors then produce data relating to the different aspects of the physical objects’ performance, like their temperature, output or weight – the possibilities are endless. A virtual copy or digital twin is created once this data is processed into the system.
This, in turn, means we can manipulate the digital version of the object without physically altering the real thing. By running simulations and monitoring performance, improvements can be made that only affect the original integrity of the object once these are tried, tested and deemed beneficial.
Unlocking Efficiency And Optimisation In Ports
Now imagine instead of an object, we take a port and create a digital twin of this. This means there is a visual representation of the entire port infrastructure, including terminals, berths, cranes, storage areas, and all other assets. This allows port operators to simulate and analyse different scenarios to optimise operations and improve resource allocation. Some examples of ways digital twins can significantly impact a port include container placement, streamlined berth scheduling and optimisation of cargo movement within the port. By analysing real-time sensor data and integrating it into the digital twin, operators can gain insights into vessel arrivals, container movements, traffic congestion and berth utilisation, facilitating better decision-making and operational planning.
Digital twins don’t just alter the physical aspect of a supply chain or port; they can also simulate different scenarios. For example, you could map out a currently existing port, add in all the necessary real-time data, and plan for what would happen to expand the port to double its original size. You can also look at how much more manpower would be needed and how many more berths and warehouses would be required to construct this. By providing real-time data, the digital twin can create insights into better, more efficient ways of working and optimising operational planning for now and the future.
Visibility Of Supply Chain Networks
Furthermore, digital twins enable the optimisation of supply chain networks that rely on shipping ports. By creating a digital twin of the supply chain, stakeholders can comprehensively understand the entire network. By having visibility over the movement of goods, inventory levels, and demand patterns, we can identify bottlenecks, optimise and overall improve performance, allowing for better forecasting, inventory management and distribution schedule. By creating digital-first solutions, you can go beyond the port and help optimise every step of the cargo’s journey, considering factors such as cost, time and environmental impact.
Accelerating Information Exchange
Digital twins in ports and supply chains also facilitate collaboration and information sharing among various stakeholders. By providing a digital platform that integrates data from multiple sources, such as shipping lines, logistics providers, customs agencies, and regulatory bodies, digital twins enable real-time information exchange and coordination. This improves communication, reduces delays, and enhances the overall efficiency of port and supply chain operations. This means stakeholders can use the digital twin to track the progress of shipments, share documentation, and streamline customs clearance processes, resulting in faster and more reliable cargo movement.
Improving Safety
Another benefit of the digital twin is improved safety and efficiency across a port. Having the ability to track in real-time where all vehicles and assets are, insights can be learned on where new ways of working can impact the overall reduction of emissions, optimisation of energy efficiency and minimising waste. With up-to-date information, stakeholders can easily see when an asset is not where it should be, and corrective action can be taken immediately to help prevent accidents.
Simplifying The Digitisation Process
Deploying a digital twin is now a more straightforward process than ever before. The democratisation of design tools and the widespread efforts to upskill and digitise the manufacturing and engineering industry in recent years have made digitisation more accessible to organisations. Consequently, running and executing digital twins has become more affordable, opening up new possibilities for organisations seeking technological advancements in their supply chains.
While digital twins alone cannot address all the challenges supply chains face, they certainly play a crucial role in establishing long-term smart port digitisation strategies. Developing digital twins requires substantial upfront investment; however, instead of committing to a complete overhaul of existing IT infrastructure, ports can gradually incorporate digital twin technologies during the planning stages of the digitisation process. This approach allows teams to make more informed decisions regarding prioritising specific aspects within the supply chain.
When implemented effectively, digital twins can enhance just about every aspect of the supply chain for the better, which means the potential for digital twin technology is limitless – although it will take time for ports and cities worldwide to fully adopt and benefit from such advancements. Smart ports will lead to the ultimate creation of smart cities, making a data-rich, digital future a possibility.