FuturePorts

Illustration of a traffic scenario in which the control system and the communication protocol are used.

FuturePorts, a pioneering DLR research project, is dedicated to transforming German ports for the era of digitalisation and automation. The sub-project at the Institute of Flight Guidance focuses on transferring proven concepts from air traffic to the maritime sector in order to develop an innovative communication protocol and a system for controlling ships approaching the port.

Project description

FuturePorts is a research and development project of several DLR institutes that aims to make German ports fit for the future and equip them for the challenges of digitalisation, automation and intermodal transport. By integrating innovative technologies and methods, ports are to increase their efficiency and strengthen their role as hubs for global trade.

Sub-project on the maritime control of ships approaching the port

The Institute of Flight Guidance is specifically working on the FuturePorts sub-project entitled "Development and implementation of a communication protocol, an IT security architecture and a (partially) automated control system for the maritime control of ships approaching ports". The focus is on transferring proven concepts from air traffic, such as communication standards in aircraft radio or arrival managers, to the maritime sector. The above-mentioned communication protocol defines rules and forms for standardised communication between maritime traffic participants, while the control system concentrates on the optimisation and organisation of traffic.

Objectives

The project contributes to preparing a future port operation for ecological, economic and social requirements and thus offers social and societal added value. In addition, the optimisation of traffic management contributes to a reduction in the ecological footprint by reducing emissions and making energy consumption more efficient. Last but not least, efficient port operations support trade, promote economic development and improve the mobility and safety of people and goods.

Key data

  

Project

FuturePorts - Enabling the future of Waterborne Transportation focused on ports

Participants

DLR institutes involved:

Institute of Vehicle Concepts

Institute of Flight Guidance

Institute of Air Transport

Institute of Communications and Navigation

Institute for the Protection of Maritime Infrastructures

Institute of Maritime Energy Systems

Institute of Optical Sensor Systems

Institute of Systems Engineering for Future Mobility

Institute of Transportation Systems

Institute of Transport Research

Duration

2022 – 2025

Funding

DLR Transport Programme Directorate (PD-V)

Website

https://verkehrsforschung.dlr.de/de/projekte/das-projekt-futureports-fuer-hochautomatisierte-digitalisierte-und-intermodal-vernetzte

Contakt

Dr.-Ing. Sebastian Schier-Morgenthal

Head of Department: Controller Assistance
Institute of Flight Guidance
Controller Assistance
Lilienthalplatz 7, 38108 Braunschweig