In response to the constant increase in freight traffic on its docks, the MPA continued its shift towards smart and innovative digital solutions to meet the challenges of fluidity and logistical efficiency.
Specifically, the MPA has been using artificial intelligence to make port trucking more fluid and reduce its carbon footprint. An improved version of the Trucking PORTal application (web and mobile) was launched in 2019. Aimed at informing truckers and dispatchers of processing times at the various port terminals, it uses algorithms that factor in weather forecasts, the number of vessels expected and the average number of registered terminal visits. The new version provides a predictive model that improves operational efficiency, reduces the environmental footprint and facilitates the work of truck drivers, who are able to benefit from significant time savings by planning their trips more easily.
One year after the launch of its innovation unit at Centech, a review of the results found that the Port of Montreal had a productive, game-changing year in terms of innovation and strategic positioning as a smart port, and all on an international scale. Since the unit was inaugurated, it has generated a number of strategic projects in open innovation with promising young Montreal companies:
With PreVu3D and ARA Robotics, the MPA carried out an extensive three-dimensional modelling of port locations and facilities (digital twin). By means of a photographic scan by drone, it now has a huge interactive model of its facilities, which can be used for various purposes. For example, it enabled the creation of an interactive map for use at the Port Centre, enabling the general public to tour the Port in augmented reality. It also made it possible to create immersive 3D interactive training programs for fire and security services at the Port of Montreal.
In addition, an artificial intelligence application for container inspection was designed by Canscan to detect damage and anomalies of containers through image analysis before they enter the terminals by truck. This approach will ultimately streamline the truck entry process at the Port.
An automated workforce management and dispatching tool that facilitates the assignment of rail personnel was designed by a Centech startup, Merinio.
A cybersecurity application to update the central access database and identify truck drivers at the common entry portal was developed by a team of ÉTS students.
Lastly, in September the MPA hosted the annual meeting of the smart port association chainPORT, bringing together stakeholders in the smart ports community from around the world.