Private cellular wireless services are the key to unlocking the digital transformation of terminal operations. Today, the full-scale automation of berth and yard operations, including the deployment of automated stacking cranes (ASC) and automated horizontal transport, such as straddle carriers, as well as the use of drones, is being held back by the inadequacies of existing wireless systems. With the availability of new radio spectrum, there are now 4G/LTE solutions and soon-to-arrive 5G solutions that are designed for private wireless networks. With their arrival, full digital transformation is now possible.
Terminal operators worldwide are challenged to meet growing the volume of container traffic, which is threatening to double by 2050, yet many terminals are already running 24/7. Container vessels grow ever larger, while just-in-time supply chains demand even faster turnaround times. Facing competition from new, smaller ports, shifting sea routes and loss of traffic, operators need to increase productivity, add new services and reduce costs to compete.
