ePIcenter innovation bridge: New challenge in Algeciras! Automate vehicle boarding/disembarking on ferries

The ePIcenter Port of Algeciras has launched a new innovation challenge. Can you find novel solutions to automate the boarding/disembarking control process that takes place at port for ferry vessels and optimize the flow of vehicles and passengers? Then apply for this challenge!

Description

Currently, both the drivers and the passengers who are travelling with his own vehicles to Tangier (MA) or Ceuta (ES), get access to the boarding area with his reservation, after passing the check-in of shipping companies and national police.

Ferry embarking algeciras
© Port of Algeciras

Once the time-window for getting into the vessel is opened, the staff from the shipping company make a manual check of the boarding card with the cargo list in order to verify that the registration and/or the cargo unit code are allowed. Once it is verified, the vehicle or truck get access to the vessel.


Similarly, during the unloading process, the staff of the shipping line checks that all vehicles wishing to leave the vessel are authorized to do so. These processes are time consuming, manual and sometimes inefficient which could be even worst during during the peak periods such as the Strait of Gibraltar Crossing Operation (OPE).

What is the objective?

The objective is to find novel solutions to automate the boarding/disembarking control process that takes place at port for ferry vessels, thus optimizing the flow of vehicles and passengers. For example, an advanced reader for license plate in continuous flow using video infrastructure or by installing cameras that do not pose a physical barrier at the main docking points could be nice options to explore.

What are we trying to answer?

  • How could we speed up the boarding/disembarkation control process and thus optimize the operation?
  • Could we perform this process automatically and unattended?

More info on: Innovation Challenge Algeciras

Please note that in order to access the web portal where the challenges are published, users must first register.