Deutsche Telekom automates Port Logistics
Deutsche Telekom spearheads the “AutoLog” project to automate logistics at automotive terminals. Collaborating with Volkswagen Group Logistics, BIBA, and Unikie, this initiative leverages 5G network APIs and an edge data center to enhance efficiency in port logistics. The primary goal is to streamline workflows at the Volkswagen plant in Emden. This project represents a significant step towards modernizing port logistics, a critical component of the automotive supply chain, by integrating cutting-edge technology to address existing challenges and prepare for future demands.
Automotive Terminal Challenges
Automotive terminals face increasing challenges, including rising vehicle volumes, a shortage of skilled personnel, and limited terminal space. These factors necessitate innovative solutions to maintain efficiency and meet growing demands. The Emden terminal, handling over 1 million vehicles annually, exemplifies these logistical pressures. Additionally, terminal operators must ensure safety and environmental sustainability while managing a complex network of vehicle movements and storage. The increasing complexity of logistics operations, coupled with the need for high precision and quick turnaround times, underscores the urgency for technological advancements.
Managing Increased Vehicle Shipments
Every year, Volkswagen Group Logistics ships around 2.4 million cars from approximately 40 ports. As the largest port in this network, Emden faces significant pressure to efficiently handle these volumes. The sheer number of vehicles necessitates a highly coordinated approach to logistics, requiring precise timing and seamless execution of various processes.
Addressing Workforce Shortages in Logistics
The logistics industry is experiencing a shortage of skilled workers, exacerbated by the growing demand for automotive shipments. This shortage impacts the ability to manage logistics operations effectively, leading to delays and increased costs. Automating certain processes can help mitigate this issue by reducing the dependency on human labor and ensuring consistent performance.
Optimizing Terminal Space Utilization
Space constraints at automotive terminals further complicate logistics operations. Efficient use of available space is crucial to accommodate the increasing number of vehicles. Automation can optimize space utilization by precisely controlling vehicle movements and storage, reducing the need for manual intervention and minimizing errors.
Technological Solutions for Port Logistics
The “AutoLog” project introduces two key technologies from Deutsche Telekom to address these challenges:
- 5G Network APIs: Providing robust, high-speed communication for automated processes. The 5G network ensures that data transmission between vehicles and control systems is reliable and fast, facilitating real-time decision-making and control.
- Edge Data Center: Ensuring rapid, localized data processing for real-time decision-making. Unlike traditional cloud computing, edge computing places data processing closer to where it is generated and used, reducing latency and improving response times. This is critical for the real-time requirements of automated logistics processes.
These innovations support automated driving and logistics processes, enabling precise vehicle control and efficient storage solutions. By integrating these technologies, the project aims to create a seamless and efficient logistics operation at the Emden terminal, setting a benchmark for future implementations in other ports.
Proof of Concept: Emden Terminal
In Emden, Deutsche Telekom has equipped the logistics area with comprehensive 5G coverage. The site includes parking areas, roads, and a busy roundabout, creating an ideal testing ground for automated and manual vehicle operations. LiDAR sensors create a digital twin of the test field, enhancing precision in vehicle handling. The digital twin provides a real-time, virtual representation of the physical environment, allowing for better planning, monitoring, and optimization of logistics processes.
Leveraging LiDAR for Precision Logistics
LiDAR (Light Imaging, Detection, and Ranging) sensors are a critical component of the project’s technological framework. These sensors use laser light to measure distances and create detailed, accurate 3D representations of the environment. In the port of Emden, LiDAR sensors detect and track vehicles, people, and other objects with high precision, even in varying light and weather conditions. This capability is essential for the safe and efficient coordination of automated and manual vehicle operations.
Utilizing Digital Twin Technology
The digital twin created by LiDAR sensors allows for the simulation and testing of various logistics scenarios without disrupting actual operations. By replicating the physical environment in a virtual space, the project team can analyze and optimize vehicle movements, storage strategies, and overall logistics workflows. This approach enhances the project’s ability to refine and perfect the automation processes before full-scale implementation.
Choosing the Right Technologies for Automation
The project employs 5G for its reliable, high-speed connectivity, crucial for real-time data transmission between vehicles and control systems. The edge data center supports fast, secure communication, essential for managing automated processes on-site. These technologies are chosen for their ability to meet the demanding requirements of modern logistics operations, including high reliability, low latency, and scalability.
Role of 5G Network APIs in Logistics
The 5G network provides the necessary bandwidth and low latency for real-time communication between vehicles and control systems. This capability is essential for ensuring the precise and safe operation of automated vehicles. The special interface (Quality on Demand Network API) ensures that the data transmission remains stable and reliable, meeting the stringent demands of logistics operations.
Advantages of Edge Data Centers in Logistics
The edge data center operates the marshalling system on-site, bringing computing power closer to the logistics operations. This setup reduces latency and enhances the speed of data processing, enabling real-time responses to dynamic situations. By processing data locally, the edge data center ensures that the system can handle the high volume of data generated by automated vehicles and LiDAR sensors efficiently.
Benefits of Automation in Port Logistics
Automating logistics at automotive terminals offers multiple advantages:
- Efficiency: Streamlined processes reduce handling times and improve throughput. Automation eliminates bottlenecks and ensures a smooth flow of vehicles through the terminal.
- Safety: Automation minimizes human error and enhances workplace safety. By reducing the need for manual vehicle handling, the risk of accidents and injuries is significantly lowered.
- Sustainability: Reduced shuttle transportation lowers CO2 emissions by up to 25%. Efficient use of space and optimized vehicle movements contribute to a greener, more sustainable logistics operation.
Enhancing Logistics Efficiency
Automation enhances the efficiency of logistics operations by reducing the time required for vehicle handling and storage. The precise control enabled by the marshalling system ensures that vehicles are moved and stored in an optimized manner, minimizing delays and maximizing throughput. This increased efficiency allows the terminal to handle a larger volume of vehicles without requiring additional space or resources.
Boosting Safety with Automation
Automated systems reduce the risk of accidents and injuries by minimizing the need for human intervention in potentially hazardous situations. The precise control of vehicle movements and the real-time monitoring provided by LiDAR sensors enhance safety for both workers and vehicles. This improvement in safety is particularly important in a busy terminal environment where the risk of accidents is high.
Promoting Sustainability in Logistics
The project contributes to environmental sustainability by optimizing logistics processes and reducing the need for shuttle transportation. Efficient vehicle movements and storage reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, contributing to a greener operation. The reduction in shuttle transportation alone can decrease the kilometers driven by up to 25%, significantly lowering the terminal’s carbon footprint.
Transforming the Automotive Supply Chain
The successful implementation of automated driving in port logistics can revolutionize the automotive industry’s supply chain. By increasing terminal efficiency and reducing environmental impact, the industry can better meet global demand and sustainability goals. The insights gained from the “AutoLog” project can serve as a blueprint for other terminals, promoting the adoption of similar technologies across the industry.
The automation of logistics processes can streamline the entire supply chain, from manufacturing to delivery. By reducing delays and optimizing vehicle movements, the project can enhance the overall efficiency and reliability of the automotive supply chain. This improvement is particularly important in an industry where timely delivery is critical to maintaining production schedules and meeting customer expectations.
Lowering Environmental Impact through Automation
The project’s focus on sustainability aligns with the automotive industry’s efforts to reduce its environmental footprint. By lowering CO2 emissions and optimizing resource use, the “AutoLog” project supports the industry’s broader sustainability goals. The adoption of similar technologies across other terminals can further amplify these environmental benefits, contributing to a more sustainable future for the industry.
Deutsche Telekom’s Key Role in Logistics Automation
Deutsche Telekom plays a pivotal role by providing the necessary 5G infrastructure and edge computing capabilities. These technologies are critical for the project’s success, ensuring reliable, high-speed communication and real-time data processing. Deutsche Telekom’s expertise in telecommunications and data management supports the seamless integration of these technologies into the logistics operations at the Emden terminal.
Providing 5G Infrastructure
Deutsche Telekom’s 5G network provides the backbone for the project’s communication needs. The high-speed, low-latency connectivity enabled by 5G is essential for the real-time control and coordination of automated vehicles. By ensuring stable and reliable data transmission, Deutsche Telekom supports the precise and safe operation of the logistics processes.
Implementing Edge Computing
The edge data center provided by Deutsche Telekom enhances the project’s ability to process data quickly and efficiently. By bringing computing power closer to the logistics operations, the edge data center reduces latency and ensures real-time responses to dynamic situations. This capability is critical for the successful implementation of automated processes, enabling the system to handle the high volume of data generated by the vehicles and sensors.
Collaborative Efforts in the “AutoLog” Project
The success of the “AutoLog” project relies on the collaboration of several key partners:
- Volkswagen Group Logistics: Manages logistics processes and provides the test field. Volkswagen’s expertise in automotive logistics and its extensive network of ports play a crucial role in the project’s implementation.
- BIBA: Offers expertise in production and logistics systems. BIBA’s knowledge of logistics processes and its research capabilities support the development and testing of innovative solutions.
- Unikie: Supplies the marshalling system for vehicle control. Unikie’s technology enables the precise and safe control of automated vehicles, ensuring the efficiency and reliability of the logistics operations.
Current Status of the “AutoLog” Project
The “AutoLog” project is currently in the testing phase at the Emden port. The partners are evaluating the performance of automated and manual vehicle operations to refine the system for broader implementation. The ongoing tests focus on various traffic situations, such as mixed operations of automated and manual vehicles, to ensure the system’s robustness and reliability.
The testing phase involves rigorous evaluation of the system’s performance in real-world conditions. By simulating various logistics scenarios, the project team can identify and address potential challenges, ensuring the system’s reliability and efficiency. The results from these tests will inform the final implementation, enabling the partners to refine and optimize the system for full-scale deployment.
The scientific results from the “AutoLog” project will contribute to future research in automated logistics and transportation. The insights gained from the project’s testing and implementation can inform the development of new technologies and processes, promoting further advancements in the field. By sharing these findings with the broader research community, the project aims to drive innovation and support the adoption of automated logistics solutions across the industry.
Running for three years, the project has a total budget of €5.8 million. The Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport funds it with €3.2 million, aiming to enhance Germany’s port competitiveness through innovative technologies. The project is expected to achieve significant milestones throughout its duration, with ongoing testing, validation, and refinement of the system.
Project Phases
The project is divided into several phases, each focusing on specific aspects of the implementation:
- Initial Setup: Establishing the necessary infrastructure, including 5G coverage and edge data centers.
- Testing and Validation: Conducting rigorous tests to evaluate the system’s performance and identify potential improvements.
- Optimization: Refining the system based on test results to ensure reliability and efficiency.
- Full-Scale Implementation: Deploying the optimized system across the Emden terminal for full-scale operations.
Funding and Government Support
The project is supported by a grant from the Federal Ministry of Digital and Transport, demonstrating the government’s commitment to promoting innovative technologies in German ports. This funding enables the partners to invest in advanced technologies and conduct comprehensive testing, ensuring the project’s success.
Project Endorsements and Compliance
TÜV Rheinland supervises the project, ensuring compliance with safety and quality standards. The scientific outcomes from “AutoLog” will inform future research, with potential applications across other automotive terminals. The involvement of TÜV Rheinland underscores the project’s commitment to safety and quality, providing an additional layer of assurance for the project’s stakeholders.
The “AutoLog” project has received recognition from industry experts and stakeholders for its innovative approach to port logistics. The project’s focus on automation, efficiency, and sustainability aligns with the broader trends in the automotive and logistics industries, highlighting its potential impact on the future of logistics operations.
Future Applications of “AutoLog” Innovations
The insights and technologies developed through the “AutoLog” project have the potential to be applied across other automotive terminals and logistics operations. By demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of automated logistics, the project paves the way for broader adoption of similar solutions, driving innovation and efficiency across the industry.
By integrating 5G, edge computing, and advanced sensors, Deutsche Telekom and its partners are paving the way for a more efficient, sustainable, and safer future in port logistics. This project not only addresses current challenges but also sets a precedent for future advancements in the field, showcasing the transformative potential of technology in logistics operations.
