The PortView team, together with the Valencia Port Authorities, Valencia Mar staff and those responsible for Puertos del Estado's innovative Fondos Ports 4.0 program, demonstrated how technology can overcome one of the most persistent challenges in recreational boating: finding the right mooring in ports. This problem, exacerbated by low visibility conditions, the complexity of port design or unclear directions, can lead to accidents, unnecessary traffic and dangerous maneuvers. PortView's answer to this dilemma is not only innovative but revolutionary.
The heart of this project lies in its proposal to digitize port navigation processes through a state-of-the-art mobile application, integrating cutting-edge technologies with the use of augmented reality. This application, which evolves from the ShoreView project, is capable of recognizing coastal profiles and providing enriched indications to guide navigators to their designated mooring, marking a milestone in the industry for its ability to integrate real data with virtual information.
During the demonstration, participants had the unique opportunity to experience first-hand the functionality and potential impact of this technology. Sailing through Valencia Mar, the team tested the prototype in various common navigation situations, such as heading to the assigned mooring, heading out to the open sea, selecting a specific point within the harbor, and changing moorings, demonstrating the application's ability to provide accurate directions and intuitively correct course.
This milestone represents the step from a concept (TRL4) to a validated prototype in a real environment (TRL7), marking a before and after in port navigation. The project, which builds on a solid foundation of previous research and development by Shoreview, not only underscores the commitment to innovation in the maritime sector but also highlights the commercial viability and potential social impact of the technology. By optimizing navigation within ports, hazardous maneuvers are reduced and more efficient and safer port management is facilitated.
Beyond the technology, the PortView project is a testament to the power of collaboration between different entities and the importance of innovation in finding solutions to historical problems in the maritime sector. With its focus on digitization, safety and sustainability, PortView is not only laying the groundwork for safer and more efficient shipping but also contributing to the economic and social development of port-logistics environments.