The Dutch water network is of great importance for international freight transport. Our ports connect ships from all over the world to the European hinterland. But this complex system is under pressure. Variable conditions such as water depth, currents, wind and wave action affect the transport capacity of ships. In addition, waterways and locks must be maintained, while this must not jeopardize the supply of goods to the hinterland.
The need for digitization
To address these complex challenges, digitalization is essential. With the help of data, models and tools, we can provide insight into the interaction between water, ships and infrastructure. Digital twins and advanced models offer opportunities to calculate scenarios, for example for maintenance planning or COâ‚‚ reduction. A lot has already been achieved, such as the development of tools to analyse shipping flows and unlock real-time data on water levels. Nevertheless, there are still opportunities to make data more accessible, to solve bottlenecks in information exchange and to accelerate innovations.
The role of DigiShape
DigiShape plays a connecting and stimulating role within the Water & Logistics domain. By bringing partners together and sharing knowledge, we ensure that data and models are used more efficiently. We do this, among other things, by mapping the data and application landscape and avoiding duplication of work. In addition, we support organizations in adapting data flows, so that data can be shared and used more easily.
DigiShape also accelerates the development of new tools and analytics. In collaboration with partners, we position projects in a broader research framework, so that innovations do not stand alone, but contribute to structural progress. In this way, DigiShape helps to prepare the sector for a future in which water-bound logistics becomes more sustainable and efficient.
