Revolutionising cargo handling using 5G

By bridging a Vodafone standalone 5G network with Ericsson’s process automation solutions, preliminary results have shown that the time it takes to unload each ship has decreased by 10%.

In addition, the number of items unloaded per hour has increased by 10% and the time required to sort each load into the warehouse has improved by 14%.

“This proof of concept will be an accelerator for the modernisation, efficiency and decarbonisation of Port of Aveiro,” said Isabel Moura Ramos, member of the board of directors of the Port of Aveiro.

Digital twin

Ericsson solutions implemented in the port include cameras equipped with 5G sensors, augmented reality platforms to guide freight loading and storage operations and a digital twin that acts as a replica of the terminal.

These solutions work together with Vodafone’s network connectivity to guide port operations.

The use of Vodafone’s 5G network allows the Port of Aveiro to monitor and manage its cargo in real time, through digital replication solutions and virtual reality and augmented reality applications and devices.

Currently, the solutions are being implemented across two operators within the port, but are expected to expand in the future.

This project has served as a proof of concept of for future cargo management with the solution developed by Ericsson based on technologies studied and tested as part of the Corealis project for ports, under the European Horizon 2020 programme.