Alternative options

Algeciras is investigating differential GPS (DGPS) in order to get more accurate information in respect of the traceability of terminal assets.

“We are also working with RFID technology to help determine when a terminal truck has arrived at the servicing position under the RTG and what container is being handling. To track terminal tractors on the quay, we are exploring laser technology, which will help the truck driver know the exact position to stop under the ship-to-shore crane,” says APM Terminals’ Laurids Ulgvig. He stresses that, at the moment, DGPS, RFID and laser technologies are covering the terminal’s needs, although future technological developments might eventually lead to information capture being 100% accurate.

DP World Southampton’s Andy Kinnell agrees. “GPS on its own is unlikely to ever work accurately enough, but by integrating it with other technologies it is possible to approach 100% feedback,” he says.

At Southampton, GPS is therefore being integrated with both the TOS and the RDT with the aim of being able to offer improved performance and reliability.

“We may also look at the introduction of dynamic zoned safety stops, which are enabling areas where a safety stop is not required to continue working, although straddle carriers and other heavy equipment would be stopped from entering.The installation of GPS on quay cranes and ECHs is also on the cards, while we could use GPS to generate statistics to improve fuel usage and reduce CO₂emissions,” says Mr Kinnell.

PTP, for its part, said that the terminal is open to any new possibilities. However, their adoption depends on substitute technology being available, the overall price of that technology, its effectiveness and the suitability of its deployment in a busy container terminal, none of which should be viewed as a given.