How SmartDAS is Transforming Docking Safety and Efficiency

Every port operator has likely experienced it - the sudden discovery of damaged fenders or substructures with no clear indication of which vessel caused it or when it occurred. This scenario plays out at terminals worldwide, leaving facilities with unexpected repair costs, operational downtime, potential safety hazards, and no accountability mechanism. 

At a busy container terminal in Australia, this situation played out repeatedly with numerous incidents of infrastructure damage that often went unreported until long after the responsible vessels had departed or even without a clear indication of how the incidents occurred. The financial impact was significant, but perhaps more concerning was the inability to identify patterns that might prevent future occurrences. Without evidence to pinpoint the causes, preventative measures remained elusive.

This scenario, familiar to port operators worldwide, highlights an industry challenge that risks both operational efficiency and financial sustainability.

Trelleborg's SmartDAS (Smart Docking Aid System) addresses these challenges head-on. It represents a fundamental shift in how maritime facilities monitor and manage vessel approaches. Unlike traditional methods that rely heavily on pilot experience and visual judgement, this technology provides objective, real-time data that transforms berthing from an art to a science.

The system's compact design belies its powerful capabilities. 

   • Early Detection: Identifies approaching vessels at up to 200 meters range, providing ample time for corrective actions
   • Comprehensive Monitoring: Captures critical metrics including vessel distance, velocity, and longitudinal angle
   • Cloud-Based Processing: Stores all data securely with access from anywhere 
   • Flexible Configuration: Accommodates varied mooring setups from fixed berths to continuous quays
   • AIS Integration: Automatically matches vessel identification data with berthing information

The real power lies in converting these features into tangible benefits for port operations.  Here are three ways SmartDAS delivers immediate value:

1. Enhanced Safety Through Real-Time Monitoring
Safety remains the paramount concern in any berthing operation. SmartDAS provides configurable alarms that alert operators when approach parameters exceed safe thresholds. The system's "set and forget" mode leverages AIS integration for autonomous monitoring, reducing the human oversight burden while increasing protection.

For pilots, the difference is immediate and practical. Implementation options can include a mobile truck-mounted wireless LED display board that provided approaching vessels with real-time feedback on their berthing parameters. This visual guidance transforms how pilots approach the berth, especially in challenging conditions.

2. Infrastructure Optimization Through Data-Driven Design
Perhaps the most compelling aspect of SmartDAS is how it transforms infrastructure planning through data. The PIANC WG211 fender design guidelines specifically recommend using site-specific information when designing port infrastructure - exactly what SmartDAS provides.

According to the PIANC WG211 documentation, using site-specific berthing information can result in smaller fenders compared to those determined by previous guidelines. Ignoring local knowledge, however, might lead to over-designed fenders.

This principle extends beyond initial design to ongoing operations. Section 5.8 of the guidelines allows for a lower "Partial Energy Factor" when berths are monitored, resulting in reduced berthing energy calculations and consequently smaller fender requirements. For port operators, this represents significant potential savings in both capital expenditure and maintenance costs.

3. Operational Intelligence Through Comprehensive Data
Every berthing event captured by SmartDAS becomes part of a valuable historical database.

This repository of information enables operators to:
• Generate comprehensive approach and mooring reports
• Replay historical berthing sessions
• Identify patterns for training opportunities
• Develop insights for investment decisions
• Establish accountability for berthing incidents

The system's optional integration with Trelleborg MetOcean sensors adds another dimension, allowing operators to correlate environmental conditions with berthing performance, creating a complete operational picture.

The versatility of SmartDAS is demonstrated in its range of implementation options. When a California oil terminal wanted to implement docking aid technology but faced prohibitive installation costs, they found an effective solution using SmartDAS. The facility implemented a Hazardous Area 2 system consisting of just 4 lasers and a single SmartDAS interface, utilizing existing communication cables and power lines to minimize civil works. This approach delivered the core benefits of the technology while staying within budget parameters.

From Data Collection to Strategic Insight
The true power of SmartDAS lies in converting raw berthing data into actionable intelligence. It isn't just about knowing when a vessel approaches too quickly. It's about understanding the complete berthing profile of your facility over time, identifying trends, and making data-driven decisions that enhance safety while optimizing infrastructure investments.

As vessels grow larger and terminals handle increasing volumes, the margin for error in berthing operations continues to shrink. SmartDAS represents a proactive approach to managing these challenges—transforming every berthing event from a potential risk into a source of valuable operational data.

For those seeking to enhance safety, protect assets, and optimize infrastructure investments, SmartDAS offers a compelling solution that delivers immediate benefits while building a foundation for long-term operational excellence.

The question is no longer whether advanced docking aids will become standard in modern port facilities, but rather how quickly forward-thinking operators will adopt this technology to gain competitive advantages in safety, efficiency, and infrastructure optimization.