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The Ports and Goods Transport Cologne AG (HGK) is developing an AI-supported data collection system at the Niehl site to improve the efficiency and networking of multimodal transport processes. This project is being implemented as part of the funding program „Digital Test Fields in Ports“ (DigiTest) by the Federal Ministry of Transport. According to HGK board member Dr. Jens-Albert Oppel, the terminal in Cologne-Niehl is a central hub for supply chains along the Rhine. To meet customer demands for reliability and flexibility, a comprehensive digitization of transport and handling processes is necessary.
Digitization of Handling Processes
The new system captures all relevant data from incoming and outgoing loading units, including goods transported by ships, trains, and trucks. More than 80 cameras and sensors are deployed at 18 locations in the port to consolidate and autonomously process the information at the so-called gates. The digitization aims to replace the previously analog processing of trucks at the „Truck Gates.“ At the „Train Gates,“ relevant data from incoming trains is already captured while approaching the port, while the „Crane Gates“ perform an automated match with the loading lists of the ships at each crane lift. The „Port Gates“ handle the autonomous processing of the entries and exits of inland vessels.
HGK project manager Thomas Hermanns emphasizes that after implementation, all traffic and goods flows in the Niehl port will be recorded in a unified system. The central data hub is intended to enable the optimization of port operations and create synergies. The technology provides seamless documentation of container movements and interfaces with other systems, laying the foundation for future innovations in the handling process.
Infrastructure Measures in the Port
Extensive construction measures are required for the implementation of the project. So far, around 5,000 meters of cable have been laid through underground cable routes in the port, with additional kilometers planned until the project’s completion at the end of March. Furthermore, the entries and exits for trucks have been structurally adapted, and modern network technology with fiber optic connections has been installed.
The Federal Ministry of Transport supports the establishment of digital infrastructures in the Niehl port not only financially but also lays the groundwork for innovations in logistics 4.0 under real conditions.
