Wilson Sons improves cutting-edge technology and grows its presence in Brazilian ports

Wilson Sons has been expanding the range of its seabed monitoring system created by the company to the major national ports following a year-long relationship with DockTech. The technology enables understanding of the incidence and pattern of silting in ports using data acquired by the echo sounders aboard the company’s tugboats.

“In March, we conclude the integration of all our tugboats into this system, collecting depth data in the 25 Brazilian ports where we operate,” reveals Eduardo Valença, commercial and digital solutions manager of the Tugboat division at Wison Sons. Eduardo also explains that the objective is to create new features to meet each client’s specifics and encourage the solution’s hyperlocal development.

In December last year, Wilson Sons and DockTech signed an important technical cooperation agreement with Santos Port Authority (SPA) to improve and use technology in the Port of Santos. “Having the largest port complex in Latin America as a strategic partner in improving the tool is significant,” highlights Eduardo.

DockTech’s digital twin technology uses depth readings from Wilson Sons tugs to create a dynamic virtual representation of the seabed. By analyzing this data with algorithms based on artificial intelligence, it is possible to identify the occurrence of silting, anticipate dredging needs and ensure greater navigation safety.

“The global port infrastructure still lacks sensors capable of measuring the depth of navigation channels in real-time. The DockTech technology enables this measurement to be performed dynamically, avoiding draft constraints while also boosting navigation safety and optimizing dredging resources.

Wilson Sons owns a minority stake in DockTech and has a commercial exclusivity deal with the firm for use in Brazilian ports. The investment is part of the company’s overall plan to promote innovation and develop Brazilian ports and marine infrastructure.

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