Exploring the Potential of Digital Twins at the Port of Rauma: A Comparative Study with Rotterdam
Nguyen, Tran Thu Trang (2025)
2025
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Julkaisun pysyvä osoite on
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025121938501
https://urn.fi/URN:NBN:fi:amk-2025121938501
Tiivistelmä
This research aimed to examine how digital twin technology can be adapted to support port operations in the Satakunta region, with particular emphasis on the Port of Rauma. The research objectives were to analyse the application of digital twin technology in port operations through a case study of the Port of Rotterdam, to evaluate the current digital and operational conditions of the Port of Rauma, and to assess the feasibility, opportunities, and limitations of adopting digital twin solutions in a mid-sized port context.
The research employed a qualitative case study approach, drawing on both secondary and primary data. Secondary data included academic literature, industry reports, and port documentation, while primary data were collected through expert interviews conducted at the Maritime Logistics Research Cen-ter. The research process involved a theoretical review of digital twin technology, an analysis of digital twin initiatives at the Port of Rotterdam, and an assessment of the Port of Rauma’s current digital systems and readiness. A comparative study was conducted to identify transferable practices between the two ports.
The analysis of the results revealed that the Port of Rotterdam has developed an advanced and integrated digital twin ecosystem supported by real-time data and predictive analytics. In contrast, the Port of Rauma has implemented several digital tools that operate independently, resulting in fragmented data systems and limited integration. Despite these limitations, the Port of Rauma demonstrates strong long-term potential due to ongoing modernization efforts, research collaboration, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
The results indicate that digital twin adoption at the Port of Rauma is achievable through a phased and long-term development approach. Prioritising data standardisation, strengthening collaboration, and investing in pilot-scale digital twin projects would support the transition towards more advanced digital applications and improved operational efficiency.
The research employed a qualitative case study approach, drawing on both secondary and primary data. Secondary data included academic literature, industry reports, and port documentation, while primary data were collected through expert interviews conducted at the Maritime Logistics Research Cen-ter. The research process involved a theoretical review of digital twin technology, an analysis of digital twin initiatives at the Port of Rotterdam, and an assessment of the Port of Rauma’s current digital systems and readiness. A comparative study was conducted to identify transferable practices between the two ports.
The analysis of the results revealed that the Port of Rotterdam has developed an advanced and integrated digital twin ecosystem supported by real-time data and predictive analytics. In contrast, the Port of Rauma has implemented several digital tools that operate independently, resulting in fragmented data systems and limited integration. Despite these limitations, the Port of Rauma demonstrates strong long-term potential due to ongoing modernization efforts, research collaboration, and a strong commitment to sustainability.
The results indicate that digital twin adoption at the Port of Rauma is achievable through a phased and long-term development approach. Prioritising data standardisation, strengthening collaboration, and investing in pilot-scale digital twin projects would support the transition towards more advanced digital applications and improved operational efficiency.