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The Port of Rotterdam is using IBM’s internet of things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies as part of its digital transformation that will eventually enable it to host autonomous ships by 2025. The Dutch port, which is Europe’s largest, is working with IBM to make use of AI and cloud-based IoT to improve efficiency and ready itself for autonomous ships. The port handles over 461 million tonnes of cargo and wants to improve traffic management through the use of IoT. Sensors are being installed across 42 kilometres of land and sea. These will collect water and weather data, as well as information about docking berths. A centralised dashboard application will collect and process the information. Through this data, which is analysed by IBM’s cloud-based IoT technology, vessel traffic in the port can be managed more efficiency to maximise cargo loading. IoT will also connect ship captains with the port and operators of the arrival terminals and monitor the communications data. The port expects to be able to save the ...