At Ports Tech, we know that every voyage has its critical moment: finding the perfect mooring and getting there safely. Although it may seem like a simple process, mooring guidance is the result of a combination of advanced technologies, digital mapping and meticulous human work. In this article, we take you behind the scenes to show you how we create the routes that guide your navigation within the port.
From plans to routes: The starting point
It all starts with information gathering. Plans provided by marinas and entities such as Pandora Global serve as the initial basis. These include key details such as ramps, captainships, pontoons and points of interest (POIs), but are rarely standardized. Our team faces challenges such as:
- Outdated or incomplete information.
- Non-uniform formats.
- Sensitive data requiring confidential treatment.
To complement this information, we use public and private satellite images, such as those provided by the Copernicus program or ESRI, ensuring that our maps are aligned with the current reality.
2. Georeferencing and digital creation
Once the information has been collected and verified, the next step is to process it using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) software such as QGIS. This is where the information is transformed into a digital format ready for the app. This includes:
- Obstacles: Collision lines, such as breakwaters and dikes.
- Perimeter: The total length of the port.
- Routes: Possible routes to reach the mooring.
- Nodes: Connection points between routes.
- POIs: Precise location of essential services such as gas stations or restaurants.
- Moorings: Exact position of the available positions.
The digitization work allows the generation of files in the following formats GEOJSONwhich are essential for integrating the maps into the app.
3. The magic of smoothing and validation
It is not enough to create functional routes; they must also be intuitive and aesthetically clear. This is where a smoothing algorithm comes into play, transforming rigid lines into fluid, easy-to-follow paths. In addition, before the routes are loaded into the app, they are validated by scripts programmed in Python to detect and correct possible errors.
4. A constant evolution: Validation and updates
Mooring guidance is not static. Ports are constantly evolving, with new infrastructures or changes in access. That's why our team reviews and updates the routes periodically, ensuring that you always have access to the most accurate information.
5. Challenges and lessons learned
Working with such a diverse infrastructure presents interesting challenges:
- Data access limitations: Some ports do not have updated plans or the data is protected.
- Constant changes: The construction of new piers or modifications may affect the routes.
- Discrepancies: Differences between plans and reality often complicate the process.
A curious case was that of Marina Menorcaone of the most complex ports due to its size and breadth. Designing clear and functional routes was a challenge, but the result is a guidance system that offers a safe and efficient navigation experience.
6. Looking to the future: Constant innovation
The current process of analysis and map creation lays the groundwork for exploring even more advanced technologies, such as:
- High resolution satellite images: To detect changes in real time.
- Advanced nautical cartography: With additional data such as beacon lights, wrecks or restricted areas.
- Automated updating: Using artificial intelligence to detect changes in port infrastructure.
More than a map, a reliable experience
Mooring guidance is much more than lines on a map. It is the result of a collaborative effort between advanced technology and human dedication, designed to make your navigation safer, more efficient and enjoyable. Every time you use this functionality, you can be sure that behind it is a team committed to getting you to port.
Did you know that we are constantly working to improve our maps and routes? Leave us your comments or doubts, we are here to help you!