A vessel train designed for operations in waterways would benefit from developments already underway in other projects or from products produced by technology providers. Examples were dock locking systems, bridge height measurement systems, and river information services. These developments were out of scope of NOVIMAR but had been identified in support of assessing the opportunities of the concept.
Dock locking system
Vessel train operations could benefit from developments in dock locking systems. Such systems enabled the mooring of ships without the deployment of mooring crews or linesmen. Systems were considered that were developed for placement on ships and for shore.
Bridge height measurement systems
Vessel train operations could benefit from developments in bridge height measurement systems for inland shipping. Such systems use a sensor on the bow of the vessel that has been connected to a computer in the wheelhouse. Such a system enable the leader vessel to take the necessary measures in the event of a collision warning.
River information services
Vessel train operations could support European developments in River Information Services (RIS), as RIS has been designed to enhance safety and efficiency of inland waterway transport (www.ris.eu). Focal aspect was a swift demand oriented electronic data transfer between water and shore through real-time exchange of information. The development of RIS, in combination with cost-effective and environmentally friendly logistics operations, enhances the competitive edge of inland waterway transport in the supply chain.