Desktop Research into Historic Automation Projects of Brownfield Container Terminals

Abstract

There is a global trend of automation of container terminals. However, there is a lack of literature to guide automation projects for brownfield terminals. Therefore, the experiences and lessons learnt from historical brownfield automation of container terminals are a valuable source of information to guide future projects. This paper describes the brownfield container terminal automation projects carried out in recent years. For each project, the drivers, challenges, benefits, and drawbacks of automation were gathered using a questionnaire directed to operators of brownfield converted container terminals. The characteristics as to the terminal sizes and implemented solutions were gathered via a desk study. It was found that the main drivers for automation are operational cost reductions and higher productivity. However, the desired levels are not always reached and depend on the terminal conditions and the solutions adopted. The continuity of operations was also identified as a major challenge. Terminals have dealt with it either by following a phased, greenfield-like, or big bang approach. Most terminals have opted for semi-automated solutions (automation of yard equipment only); this resulted in fewer labor problems, improved vessel productivity, less required space, and better agility in dealing with disruptions. Most terminals have chosen either automated RMG or the automated version of their manned equipment for yard operations, although exceptions were observed.

Lessons from Reality on Automated Container Terminals: What Can Be Expected from Future Technological Developments?

“…This is supported by the DEA (Data Envelopment Analysis) analysis carried out by Wiśnicki et al; they did not find a relationship between terminal efficiency and terminal automation level, so conventional terminals were found to be at the same level of productivity as automated ones, or vice versa ( 51 ). There are other context-specific factors that affect efficiency, as well as other cited works ( 8 , 17 , 39 ).…”

“…This can lead to workers having to take over in unexpected events. Related to that, Burgos et al raise the issue of vulnerability ( 17 ). The main drawbacks of automation were given to be unpredictable technical problems/high impact of failures.…”

“…Also, as Burgos et al discuss, most existing automated container terminals were greenfield developments, for which automation is already the norm, yet brownfield automation is gaining momentum and is expected to become more relevant in the coming years ( 17 ).…”

“…A large body of literature is dedicated to simulating or proposing, from a theoretical point of view, how productivity can be increased ( 16 ). However, concerning implementation, as Burgos et al discover, the desired levels of automation are not always reached and are dependent on local conditions ( 17 ). In light of this, the goal of this paper is to give insight into and discuss common ground on productivity in automated container terminals, given the relevance it has on costs and terminal operators’ managerial decisions.…”

“…In a similar vein, Burgos et al analyzed automation of brownfield container terminals ( 17 ). On completion of automation projects, there were both increases and decreases.…”