The drones are able to reach depths of up to 150 meters and
are also able to automatically generate analysis reports.
Latvian-based company DronePlan is currently testing its
underwater drone remote control software that could be used in the
construction, maintenance, and inspection of hydro-technical structures in the
future.
“Many of the world’s ports are active players in the field
of innovation ecosystem,” said Viesturs Zeps, Chairman of the Freeport of Riga.
“In recent years we have also encountered more and more new companies in the
Port of Riga, which offer various newly created technologies for solving
challenges related to the operation and management of the port. We are open to
such cooperation.
“We have tested drones for environmental monitoring,
technologies for remediation of historical pollution, more efficient traffic
organisation, reduction of CO2 emissions as well as other innovative solutions
to improve the quality and efficiency of port services, which in turn can
enhance the port’s competitiveness both regionally and globally.
Viktors Bikovs, Chairman of the DronePlan Board, added “The
use of drone technologies fosters better, faster and safer performance of
certain underwater works – drones can operate perfectly in winter conditions
when drivers find it difficult or impossible to work, as well as to manoeuver
at hard-to-reach underwater objects and structures.
“Drones can also provide support function in the work of
industrial drivers in other areas. At present, drones can be equipped with
special devices that would allow them to operate autonomously 24 hours a day.”
Until now, the inspection of berths in the port has always
been carried out by industrial drivers, these services are expensive and often
dependent on the weather. Therefore, the Freeport Authority is considering and
analysing other solutions for the implementation of these tasks.
The Freeport of Riga has previously tested a new IT tool
with T-Systems International and Detecon International to cut CO2 emissions and
noise pollution from road freight transport.
Announced in November 2020, the port said in a statement
that the Low Carbon Mobility Management (LSMM) system makes it possible to
track, control and prevent air pollution from road transport, cut CO2 emissions
and noise pollution in the environment and improve traffic safety.