The intelligent management and automated operation system of Zhangjiagang Port Group's dry bulk terminal has been recognized by the Ministry of Transport as one of the first batch of exemplary cases of digital transformation and transportation infrastructure upgrading. It is the only dry bulk terminal in the country to earn this distinction.
Zhangjiagang Port. [Photo/VCG]
The system's key innovation lies in its development of fully automated loading and unloading technology, marking the industry's first unmanned operations across all stages of the process.
In addition, leveraging Internet of Things (IoT)-based management technology, the system integrates control over personnel, equipment, facilities, vessels, cargo, monitoring systems, lighting, and dust control at the terminal.
Moreover, it is the country's first multi-dimensional dust monitoring and intelligent control system, realizing the comprehensive and systematical management of air quality, energy use, water pollutants, shore power, photovoltaics, and greening, underscoring its commitment to environmental innovation.
The system's achievements have been substantiated with one invention patent, 11 utility model patents, two design patents, and 11 software copyrights. Additionally, five related academic papers have been published in major journals.
The system has delivered significant economic and social benefits since being fully implemented at Zhangjiagang Port Group's dry bulk terminal.
Worker numbers at the terminal have decreased by 12 percent, energy consumption has been reduced by 10 percent, operating costs have fallen by 8 percent, and total suspended particle (TSP) concentration has dropped by 28 percent. Simultaneously, production efficiency has improved by 11 percent, with annual savings estimated at 11 million yuan ($1.51 million).
The system's advancements have also been partly adopted and applied at several other ports across the industry, further extending its impact.