Port optimises with university support

The partnership with the universities of Manchester, Cranfield, Liverpool and Kent will run a range of projects on topics such as AI, machine learning and physics-based deep learning.

“The Port of Dover’s vision to become a smart, seamless, and sustainable port is fast coming to fruition, but the only way this vision can be realised is through collaboration with first-class thinkers and researchers,” said Christian Pryce, chief commercial officer at the Port of Dover, adding that this collaboration was the first of a number of partnerships planned by the port.

The partnership will see the port benefit from the world-leading research offered by the universities who in turn will have access to a unique testbed at the port. “The Port of Dover is an exceptional testing environment, helping us develop knowledge in further potential applications of AI in maritime operations, logistics and supply chains,” said Ying Xie, Professor of Supply Chain Analytics at Cranfield University.

Work with the University of Manchester is focused on developing a digital twin at the port, whilst the universities of Cranfield, Liverpool and Kent will work to improve resource management, traffic flow optimisation, logistics and supply chain movement.

Arijit De, Assistant Professor at the University of Manchester, said a digital twin will offer navigation assistance and improve passenger flow. “These projects are geared towards improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction within the port and have the potential to bring significant advantages to the marine industry,” he said.