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Technology is something that can never stay stagnant. It focusses on exploring and reaching newer heights with each passing day and we need to keep abreast of all the latest development, in order to stay updated. The shipping industry has been steadily evolving and experimenting with advanced technologies, in a short period of time. According to the predictions put forward by the experts in this field, the future of shipping will inevitably witness the rise of autonomy. In the age of intelligent robots and self-driven vehicles, it is only natural that autonomous vessels will soon take over the industry. With the constant progress in the world of technology, we are gradually becoming less dependent on manual labour. It is for no reason that Rolls Royce and some major shipping organizations are already drawing up plans to create a permanent niche for autonomous vessels in the long run. Across the globe, the modern ships are currently using the navigation system and will soon look forward to installing robotic control to eliminate the risk of human error. Cloud Connectivity and its Benefits Nowadays, the primary concern is to improve the level of communication between vessels and the ports or terminals. In the maritime sector, the cloud-based platforms will play a key role in initiating the smooth transition to the concept of automation. Specially designed to promote collaborative planning, this ground-breaking technology will ensure that the trade hubs participate in the active distribution of real-time information. The cloud connectivity will bring about a positive change and explore the countless advantages of cloud connectivity. Certain cloud-based platforms, like the XVELA service, has been implemented by two Brazilian terminals and has successfully achieved a higher operational efficiency. Moreover, the cloud connectivity is able to provide a platform for several IoT operating systems that establish a good connection between the ports, as well as within them. Back in July, software giants like Infosys and Siemens had declared that ‘MindSphere’, their personal IoT operating system is governed by cloud technology and is currently in the developmental phase. The platform functions as a connector between industrial machinery and a “digital system” that further leverages data for computerized analysis. The platform is widely used across the logistics, transportation and manufacturing industries and it simultaneously aids in building an exclusive environment where the yard is completely connected. The fundamental principle of the automation procedure requires the power sourced from combine technologies that can create a power-packed cloud infrastructure. The cloud computing process needs an optimum environment that includes a high-density computing model. According to a report released by the International Data Group, cloud technology is already being utilized by 69% of businesses and 18% are eager to start implementing it. The cloud connectivity has a lot of benefits like reduced costs, data loss prevention, remote access to corporate data, improved communication, etc. The Port of Antwerp has highlighted the role of cloud connectivity in realizing the ultimate goal of automation. Considered as an integral part of the port’s ‘Smart Port Vision’ program, a totally autonomous boat called the ‘Echodrone’ has been launched to guide the safe passage of container vessels on arrival and departure at the port. In fact, the ‘Echodrone’ is being regarded as the perfect example of integrating cloud connectivity into the port technology, which is evident from its enhanced, capability of gathering and translating data and enabling self-navigation with total ease. Cloud Automation Al Tama, who is an expert regarding the IoT applications within an industrial space, has put forward the notion that the logistics and transportation sectors are going through a significant phase of transformation both on land and at the sea. He feels that this sudden change has been initiated by the introduction of numerous cloud-based platforms not only throughout the supply chains but also in the ports. One such fine example of the benefits of cloud technology is the frequent usage of cloud-based platforms at the Port of Rotterdam. The advanced technology is pretty good at optimizing and enhancing the performance at the port by offering a transparent overview of the cargo handling services. The former CFO at the Rotterdam Port, Paul Smits, highlights the fact that a combination of cloud technology and sensor technology is being used to arrange the 42-km port area for autonomous shipping. Undoubtedly, this action will further lead to the formation of a smarter supply chain, which is a much welcome change for the shipping companies. The Port of Rotterdam has joined hands with IBM in implementing their advanced cloud technology to gather and translate the necessary data for any transaction. The cloud technology is not just useful in accentuating the speed and precision of the mooring procedure, but it also reduces the overall cost and waiting times at the port. Digital Twin Technology Another newly launched technology that is slowly gaining ground is the digital twin technology that carries the potential to boost the responses of the important maritime players to face different types of operational challenges. As a consequence, the digital twin technology is good at allowing a simulation of both regular and emergency scenarios, which is proven to be beneficial for the terminal operators, shippers and last but not the least, the port authorities. The CargoSmart Solace platform has wonderfully displayed the powerful and trustworthy IoT linking between control centers , applications and vessels. The cloud-based digital twin technology is highly efficient at building a strong supply chain that is constantly evolving and upgrading itself. This is particularly helpful for all the ports and terminals connected to the technology. Cloud-Empowered Data Sharing Platforms The cloud technology has the absolute power to completely alter the present scenario of the container shipping industry. However, it needs a lot of cooperation from within the industry to be able to exercise its strength. According to the views shared by Derek Kober, the various data-sharing platforms based on cloud technology provide better connectivity and real-time visibility in order to enhance the productivity of the organization. It is evident that real-time collaboration is instrumental in perking up the operational performance across the supply chains. The amazing coordination displayed by the Latin American region (the fine example of the two Brazilian terminals, as cited above) in collaborating with the XVELA service should become a driving factor for the whole maritime sector to finally realize the necessity of incorporating cloud technology into the daily operations. Liked this article? Read similar: Autonomous Ships And Where to Find Them Whats up with Autonomous Ships October Edition