Introduction
In an ambitious move set to redefine maritime operations, Nokia and Liberty Global have embarked on a strategic partnership. Through this collaboration, Liberty Global’s Belgian arm, Telenet, leverages Nokia’s cutting-edge Network as Code platform alongside a developer portal at the Port of Antwerp. This port, recognized as one of the globe’s largest, is set to witness unprecedented operational efficiency and enhancements in service offerings thanks to this technological synergy.
Main Sections
Technology Integration and Trial Initiatives
The collaborative effort is primarily focused on cultivating innovative network use cases specific to the maritime environment of the port. Developers are granted access to Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and Software Development Kits (SDKs) through Nokia’s Network as Code Platform. This portal enables the creation of novel applications designed to optimize operations and services within the port, further enriching the maritime ecosystem with tools that harbor the potential for commercialization.
A pivotal trial showcased the promising capabilities of Liberty Global, utilizing Telenet’s 5G standalone network, characterized by slicing capabilities. This trial highlighted the feasibility of remote vessel management by captains, significantly enhancing safety and operational efficiency through real-time data supported by ultra-low latency network capabilities and zero-touch automation. This trial represents a crucial component of Liberty Global’s Network as a Service (NaaS) program and was conducted in collaboration with Belgian entities Seafar NV and imec, specializing in shipping operations and nanoelectronics/digital technology research, respectively.
Technological Innovations and Industry Standards
The trial exploited dynamic geofencing, high-definition onboard cameras and sensors, coupled with AI and machine learning algorithms provided by imec. These technologies were utilized to identify critical navigational areas, automatically adjusting network capacity to ensure high-quality live video feeds as vessels navigated these zones. This level of situational awareness permitted captains to safely steer vessels through complex maneuvers during busy port operations, significantly reducing fuel consumption and enhancing overall efficiency.
This venture is not only a testament to the practical application of the Open Gateway initiative, proposed by the GSMA to standardize industry APIs to foster innovation but also demonstrates the potential of NaaS technology. Through this approach, an ecosystem is cultivated, incorporating standardized CAMARA APIs into imec’s applications, thus optimizing network resource usage. By adopting a cloud-based 5G standalone network, this model introduces a cost-effective, demand-responsive, and highly flexible networking solution that promises to untap new market opportunities and inspire further advancements in numerous sectors beyond maritime operations.
Conclusion
The partnership between Nokia and Liberty Global at the Port of Antwerp stands as a beacon of innovation, melding the realms of 5G technology, cloud computing, edge computing, and AI to usher in a new era of maritime efficiency and safety. This collaboration not only highlights the transformative potential of digitalization in the maritime sector but also sets a precedence for future endeavors aiming to revolutionize industries with advanced technological solutions. As we move forward, the success of this partnership paves the way for expansive growth and novel applications that could redefine industry standards and operational capabilities on a global scale.
