Accommodating larger container vessels using an integrated laser system for approach and berthing

Various activities such as dredging and pier lengthening have made it possible for ports to receive larger container vessels, though in many cases this has made berthing the vessels more difficult, necessitating advanced ranging and docking systems. For example, in Koper, Slovenia, navigation through a narrow and bending channel has been made safer through the implementation of a laser-ranging system; a laser docking system is in place so that once the ship is positioning alongside where, say, inadequate fenders await and ship-to-shore (STS) cranes are near, special care is required and parameters such as precise vessel position, transversal speed, and vessel-approaching angle are of great importance. This paper will present the layout of the system and the first results related to the observed docking of large container vessels calling at the Port of Koper.