I2PANEMA - IoT solutions for efficient and sustainable ports

With increasing demands for efficiency and sustainability in ports, the integration of new technologies is becoming essential. The ITEA research project I2PANEMA (Intelligent IoT-based Port Artefacts Communication, Administration & Maintenance) aimed to provide innovative solutions for port logistics through the use of IoT technologies and digital processes.

Challenges and motivation

EU freight volumes are expected to increase by 50% by 2030, while many ports are limited in their physical growth. This requires an optimized use of existing capacities, especially through digital technologies. I2PANEMA developed innovative IoT-based solutions to address these challenges and increase the resilience of supply chains.

Technological solutions

The project developed a three-layer architecture for the intelligent processing of sensor data:

• Machine-to-Machine Communication Layer (MCL): networking of sensors and actuators
• IoT Interoperability Layer (IIL): Standardized interfaces and data integration
• Data Management Layer (DML): data analysis, machine learning and visualization

In addition, the DREAD/STRIDE methodology for IoT security analysis was adapted to systematically identify and secure threats.

Key results of I2PANEMA

Various practical demonstrators were implemented as part of the project, including

• Container localization: Sensor-based solution for the precise determination of container positions in ports. Results:
  • +10 % more container movements per shift
  • -15 % shorter lead times per container movement
  • -50 % fewer accidents in port terminals
• Noise reduction: Development of an Active Noise Control (ANC) system to reduce noise emissions from cranes:
  • Significant reduction in noise pollution of over 15 dB
  • Enables extended operating times in port terminals
  • CNA Award for Transport & Logistics Innovation 2021
• Smart Logbook: Digitization of logbooks according to ISO 4891 standard:
  • Paperless documentation via smartphone app
  • Increased transparency and simpler data management

Standardization & economic impact

The results of I2PANEMA have far-reaching implications:

• Contribution to the ISO 4891 standard for digital logbooks
• Use cases in European and African ports
• Development of four new products & expansion of existing systems

Conclusion & future prospects

I2PANEMA has shown how IoT technologies can make ports more efficient, more sustainable and safer. The practical development and implementation of innovative solutions has made a decisive contribution to the digitalization of the port industry..