Future Fields Concept, redefine the relationship from ship to stack

Future Fields

An alternative approach to port operations that is set to transform the efficiency and impact of global shipping.

Our innovative technology leverage strategic enhancements that not only promises a significant increase in throughput but also reduces the time ships spend in port. Explore our site to discover how this method has the potential to disrupt and redefine the standards in port operations and lead the charge towards more efficient and responsible container handling.

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Redefine the relationship between ship and stack

Future Fields is a solution designed to tackle current and future challenges, such as increasing vessel sizes and limited availability of land. By utilizing automated technology and the latest innovations, Future Fields improves productivity, consistency, and capacity. In keeping with the Konecranes value of 'Driving for Better,' we continue to seek new and innovative approaches to container handling and are delighted to announce, 'Future Fields', a result of our joint efforts with industry experts.

Faster Vessel Turnaround

Increases the loading/unloading speed by positioning ships centrally and using indented berths with overhead cranes, targeting 35-45% reduction in ship time in port.

Operational resilience to handle diverse cargo types and adapt to market demands, including incident recovery. Enhanced productivity and efficiency with faster trolley acceleration and speed. Increased global competitiveness by positioning the port as a preferred hub on international shipping routes.

Optimised Land Utilization

Enhanced operational resilience with the ability to handle diverse cargo and adapt to market and operational demands, including accident recovery.

Increased productivity and efficiency through faster trolley acceleration and speed, improving moves per hour. More efficient operations lead to decreased congestion and reduced emissions, aligning with sustainability goals.

Expansion Opportunities

Enable ports to expand service offerings and handle more complex logistics operations. Through maximising the density of container stacks the terminal can grow vertically where expansion opportunities limited.

Operational Cost Reductions

Reduced overall energy consumption and frequency of maintenance, lowering OPEX.

Reduced energy consumption and maintenance costs with advanced crane designs, multi-trolley systems, and optimized trolley travel speed.

Self-sufficient Power Options

Solar power offers a highly attractive and self-sufficient alternative energy source. It has the capability to generate significantly more energy than the system consumes, making it a proven and financially viable solution.

Improved Crane Stability and Load Control

Innovations in crane design such as dampening measures and aerodynamic improvements enhance stability, reduce foundation costs, and improve load control.

Enhanced operational stability with improved crane designs offering better stability, load control, and reduced foundational stress.

Increased Throughput Capacity

Dual-side loading/unloading boosts volume of containers handled, cutting vessel turnaround time.

Enhanced productivity and efficiency through faster trolley acceleration and speed, significantly improving the number of moves per hour.

Faster Vessel Turnaround
Optimised Land Utilization
Expansion Opportunities
Operational Cost Reductions
Self-sufficient Power Options
Improved Crane Stability and Load Control
Increased Throughput Capacity

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The Challenge

Since the first Triple E-class container vessels were ordered in 2011 and boosted by ULCVs (Ultra Large Container Vessels) since 2017, the quest for enhanced productivity has driven significant advancements in port operations. Back in 2015, Drewry Container Insight noted that berth productivity had not kept pace with increasing vessel sizes, despite the target of 250 moves per hour to achieve 6000 moves in 24 hours with 8 STS.

Today, the best-performing terminals can reach this goal, yet the integration of automation has been modest, with remote operation of STS cranes nearing the productivity of onboard operators. Yard automation brings consistency but poses challenges in handling increased volume, especially in brownfield sites.

The Future Fields Concept addresses these challenges to improve quay productivity, ensure efficient horizontal transport, and to maximise the density and accessibility of containers in the 'yard'. Our approach ensures that port operations are not only efficient but also focused on improving sustainability within the terminal, meeting the evolving demands of global trade.

At the Quay

Key Benefits: Portal Crane Animation

Improved Crane Stability
Double the Performance with four trolleys and shorter cycle times
35-45% reduction in ship time in port
50-60% Less Steel Used
Coastline/Shoreline Usage Saving

Portal Crane Solutions:

Suitable for all vessel sizes, including mega-sized vessels
Rigid design enhances safety and productivity with better structural stability and precise motion control
Doubling crane performance using two girders and four trolleys
Extended safety distance between crane legs and vessel to prevent risk of contact

Horizontal Transport

Key Features: Konecranes AGV

World-leading AGV Interface for predictable performance
Twin and Tandem Moves
Low CO2 and Noise Emissions with proven battery solutions
Personnel Safety with twist lock removal stations and protected entry

Advanced Solutions:

Vessel and container yard interface managed with AGVs
Highest capacity including twin and tandem moves
Fully electric solution with proven battery technology combined with solar power

Our leading solutions offer efficient and eco-friendly operations, enhancing productivity while prioritizing safety and sustainability.

Container Storage/Stacking

Key Benefits:

Reduced Land and Shoreline Footprint: Stacking density of 3500 – 4100 TEU/HA
95% Productive Container Moves
Operational Resilience
Integration Capability: Seamlessly connects yard, rail, and trucking operations
High Automation Level: Substantial OPEX savings
Improved Safety: Enhanced through automation and enclosed structure
Fully Electric Solution: Solar power option available

Advanced Features:

Throughput capacity of stackers and trucks cranes: approximately 30 moves per hour
Solar energy independence

Our solution provides high efficiency, safety, and sustainability, transforming yards into fully automated warehouses.