Dubai-based global marine terminal operator DP World showcased its innovative approach to the ports and logistics industry to visitors at the global operator’s exhibition stand, which was part of the UAE’s first Innovation Week.

In celebrating innovation in the country, the exhibition at Dubai Mall from November 22 to December 4, is in line with the directive of HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan to mark 2015 as the ‘Year of Innovation’.

One of the numerous innovation examples on display is DP World’s Rotterdam World Gateway (RWG) which provides the global supply chain with the most innovative container terminal in the world through the greatest extent of automation ever achieved in a port.  Also at Rotterdam World Gateway, 59 driverless electric trucks, known as automated guided vehicles, steered using instructions from a control centre, are boosting efficiency at the facility, said a statement from the company.

DP World is also showcasing its novel approach to sustainability by automating its processes and machinery across its operations worldwide. This has resulted in a substantial reduction of its carbon footprint by almost 25 per cent, equivalent to planting 10.6 million trees, it said.

The use of security drones at its ports is also allowing live video coverage of areas not in view of fixed camera networks, increasing safety and surveillance monitoring, it added.

Meanwhile, state-of-the-art remotely controlled quay cranes at its flagship Jebel Ali Port in Dubai are increasing the gender diversity of DP World’s workforce by enabling female UAE national crane operators to work from the control centre, said the statement.

The exhibition houses interactive and entertaining activities and games that earn visitors points that they can redeem for gifts. Visitors can enjoy a 3D virtual reality tour of DP World’s flagship Jebel Ali port, one of the largest in the world, experiencing first-hand the vertigo and adrenaline when operating a 138 m, 1.85 million kg quay crane.

Visitors also have the opportunity to deliver a one-minute elevator pitch to DP World’s TURN8 programme, the successful start-up accelerator initiative for entrepreneurs that encourages innovation. Three of the most successful start-ups to have benefited from the programme are being featured, they are as follows:

InGlove: An interactive glove comprised of a unique design and materials that allows users to feel the shape of objects that they grasp in a computer simulation.

Junkbot: A Do It Yourself hardware kit that helps people make real life working robots from unwanted junk. Using everyday items like water bottles, Coffee cups, old CDs and cardboard, Junkbot gives young people the blueprint to create their very own robot, with varying degrees of difficulty.  This enables kids and adults to study science, technology, engineering and mathematics in a fun, engaging way.   

KinTrans: The KinTrans device is designed to improve communication between deaf individuals and others. It is estimated that 80 per cent of the population does not know sign language. This makes it difficult for deaf people to communicate during the course of the day. By translating sign language into audible words, KinTrans eliminates the need for the listener to know sign language, and makes it easier and quicker for the deaf person to communicate.

Sara Falaknaz, vice president for innovation, DP World, said: “The level of interest and engagement at our innovation stand demonstrates the importance that people attach to innovation and creativity, making their lives better now and creating a better future for the generations to come.”

“There are always smarter, newer ways of doing things and we will continue to push the boundaries of innovation across our business,” she said.

“We are delighted to witness the great amount of interest in our innovation stand this week,” she added. – TradeArabia News Service