Assessing IoT Solutions for Dynamic Under Keel Clearance: A Model Validation Study at Port Tanger Med.

The port of Tanger Med stands as the first port in Africa and the Mediterranean, with a throughput capacity of up to 9 million TEUs annually, accommodating the globe's largest vessels, such as ULCVs and MGX-24 classes, which boast capacities nearing 24,000 TEUs. To advance the safety and efficiency of handling deep-drafted vessels, the Tanger Med Port Authority, in cooperation with other terminals partners, try to deploy a sophisticated IoT-based system. This system integrates a high-precision non-linear 3D sea-keeping engine with detailed metocean forecasts, encompassing data on waves, winds, and other hydrodynamic factors. This IoT solution has been instrumental as a decision-support tool, facilitating the Harbormaster and Pilot teams in safely managing vessel transits. It has enabled an increase in the maximum allowable draft to 17.4 meters without requiring dredging. This paper delves into a model validation study assessing the effectiveness of the IoT solution in enhancing dynamic under-keel clearance management at Port Tanger Med, underlining its crucial role in improving operational efficiencies and ensuring navigational safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]