As part of the Belfast 5G Innovation Region programme, Belfast Harbour is harnessing 5G-led innovations to accelerate the digitisation of port operations. It has deployed a private 5G network along West Bank Road (the main port thoroughfare).
5G hopper bulk cargo operations
The challenge
Funnel-shaped hoppers are used at Belfast Harbour to transfer bulk material, such as grain, from ships to trucks. The operator controls the hopper from a cubicle on the side of the structure – remote operation is not possible. The operators and lorry drivers use radio and a traffic light system to communicate and there’s no access to real-time data insights to optimise operations. Hoppers are essential for port operations and when one breaks down it affects productivity.
The solution
Belfast Harbour worked with BT to deploy networked IoT devices, sensors, infrared and 3D cameras on a hopper to monitor its condition and operation, optimise the movement of material, and provide operators with real-time information. The devices are controlled by a locally installed edge controller panel.
The hopper connects to Belfast Harbour’s private 5G network which enables secure, remote network access to the edge controller panel and for data analytics.
Benefits
- Optimised and efficient bulk freight.
- Better working environment – will enable remote operations.
- More effective communication between operators and drivers.
In-car 5G connectivity to support port operations
The challenge
As part of their operations at Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast Harbour Police and port staff need real-time access to digital information and remote downloads of data (including CCTV footage), but this is challenging to do with existing network connectivity. Officers on patrol in cars must regularly return to base to access and download information instead of remotely accessing it out on location. This is an inefficient use of time and resources.
The solution
Belfast Harbour worked with BT to fit ten port operations and police vehicles with equipment to enable them to connect to public and private 5G networks. This provides staff with real-time access to business applications, digital information and remote downloads of data while in their vehicle.
Benefits
- Reduced number of return visits to base.
- More efficient use of resources and assets.
- Reduced fuel consumption and carbon emissions
Air quality monitoring
The challenge
Belfast Harbour’s Air Quality Strategy sets out its vision to be the world’s greenest multi-modal port. Its action plan presents a range of measures to reduce emissions from vehicles and vessels associated with Harbour operations and improve air quality. An emissions inventory is required to evaluate the emissions.
The solution
Belfast Harbour worked with BT to install Air Quality and Noise Smart Traffic Sensors in the port area to provide real-time, 24-7 environmental monitoring, data capture and analysis over a private 5G network.
The sensors capture data on air quality particulate levels, nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels, noise levels, temperature, and humidity which is fed into a data hub to provide analysis and visualisation of environmental data.
Benefits
- Reduction in emissions.
- Access to real-time, 24-7 environmental data.
- Actionable insights to improve air quality.
