A Smart Bollard is a technologically advanced version of the traditional bollard used in shipping and dock settings. Distinct from the standard dock bollards, the Smart Bollard is affixed permanently on quays. Its unique capability lies in its ability to measure the loads on the mooring lines of a ship bollard, translating the structural movement induced by the tension of these lines. This data then becomes accessible to the port authority, terminal operator, or even the vessel itself, catering to all seagoing vessels including container and bulk carriers.
In the past, accurately measuring the load on mooring lines was a challenge. This often meant ports had to work with presumed maximum mooring loads. Especially in tumultuous conditions with high waves, powerful currents, or gusty winds, understanding the exact loads on these lines becomes crucial. An overburdened mooring line can snap, causing the vessel to disengage from the quay, potentially leading to severe mishaps.
Enter the Smart Bollard, a game-changer for ship mooring bollards. This bollard dock innovation enhances safety by offering real-time insights into mooring forces, providing port authorities and terminal operators with a clear understanding of the loads on the mooring lines. With its advanced MoorControl software, a comprehensive overview of these forces is available to stakeholders, making port operations more efficient. As vessels grow in size and weather events become increasingly unpredictable, a clearer insight into mooring loads becomes paramount.
Monitoring the data from Smart Bollards can streamline port operations and curtail unsafe situations while vessels are docked.
An interactive dashboard displays and archives crucial information such as:
System administrators can conveniently add users, set alarms, and through a provided API, integrate this data into other platforms.
The Smart Bollard offers a range of benefits:
Whether through ethernet or wireless, the Smart Bollard is versatile in its connectivity. Ethernet connections necessitate a switchbox to collect and relay data to the cloud, while a wireless connection requires an on-site gateway.
Data is transferred to the cloud (hosted on AWS) and becomes accessible through a dedicated portal. This portal further offers information on weather patterns, currents, and a vessel database. Integration with other systems is seamless thanks to a standard API.
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In partnership with the Port of Rotterdam, Straatman pioneered the development of the Smart Bollard. The ECT Delta Terminal at the Port of Rotterdam witnessed the initial installation of the Smart Bollard as a trial phase. This aligns with the port's vision of amplifying efficiency through digitalisation. The subsequent phase entails a broader installation of Smart Bollards across the Port of Rotterdam's quays and other ports around the world.
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