Digitalisation project deploys smart buoy
An energy efficient smart buoy has been installed just outside a Swedish port as part of a project which is using digitalisation to improve safety and efficiency in shipping fairways.
Deployed in March as part of the EU Intelligent Sea project, the battery-powered navigation beacon is located in the shipping fairway outside Stockholm Norvik Port, due to open in May. The buoy is equipped with remote monitoring technology which provides Ports of Stockholm with continuous access to information, resulting in better control and reduced maintenance requirements, as well as providing better maritime safety at Stockholm Norvik Port.
“Participating in the EU Intelligent Sea project gives us the opportunity to test new marine technologies and innovations,” said Jonas Andersson, nautical coordinator at Ports of Stockholm, whose project partners are the Port of Naantali and Finnish company Meritaito.
“Collaboration within the EU and new innovations are important success factors in achieving results that are better for the environment and improve the digitalisation of our port and shipping operations,” added Mr Andersson.
The buoy is also part of the Intelligent Sea project’s research to improve the remote control, safety and handling of information from buoys. This is now being tested in the real-life situation and environmental conditions prevalent in the northern part of the Baltic Sea.
The buoy is equipped with LED lights, which can be remotely adjusted, and a battery capacity sufficient for five years of operation.
A 25m long cable chain and 14t concrete attachment ensure that the 10m high buoy, with a diameter of 80cm, is securely anchored on the sloping sea bed.
The project will run until 2021.
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