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Port of Koper Case Study
Technology Category
- Application Infrastructure & Middleware - Middleware, SDKs & Libraries
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) - Cloud Computing
Applicable Industries
- Marine & Shipping
Applicable Functions
- Logistics & Transportation
Use Cases
- Process Control & Optimization
- Real-Time Location System (RTLS)
Services
- System Integration
The Challenge
As the Port of Koper began expanding both the number and capabilities of its terminals, the port’s management knew it needed to consider updating its control software. In addition to container and vehicle cargo, the port required additional control of equipment such as conveyor belts and scales for items such as iron ore and coal. As far back as 2004, the port management began to look into how to best scale the control of its operations. At that time, each individual terminal contained its own control solution. The decision was made to work with system integrator, Robotina, which had worked with the port on other projects and had earned a reputation as a reliable partner.
About The Customer
The Port of Koper is the largest, and considered the most important, port in Slovenia. It is a multi-use port in that it can handle multiple load types. Its 12 terminals handle multiple containers, cars, general cargo and dry bulk. In 2016, total cargo through the port amounted to 22 million tons. The port, which operates 364 days a year and 24 hours a day, has some competition in ports located in Rijeka, Croatia and Trieste, Italy, but these are considered mostly for use in the northern part of the Adriatic Sea. The port of Koper’s ability to stay ahead of its competition is attributed to its effective and smooth operations.
The Solution
Luka Koper, working with system integrator, Robotina, d.o.o., selected ICONICS’ GENESIS64™ HMI/ SCADA and building automation suite, as well as GENESIS32™ HMI/SCADA suite. In turn, Robotina suggested ICONICS automation software solutions in order to consolidate and standardize the port’s control systems. The port initially began by installing ICONICS GENESIS32 32-bit-based software and then eventually moved to the newer GENESIS64 64-bit-based option. The system is connected to multiple vendors’ equipment (comprising over 12,000 tags) including PLCs, sensors, and other devices from Schneider Electric, Hitachi, Cybrotech, Siemens and more. The ICONICS system integrates with the port’s existing Microsoft SQL Server and Exchange Server applications, as well as with the port’s own TinO application (Trženje in Operativa); a combination of TOS (terminal operation system) and Port Management system, which supports ordering services, work planning, invoicing, storage, etc.
Operational Impact
Quantitative Benefit
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