Emulation Service for Terminals
Terminal emulation helps operators of new automated container terminals, as well as terminals planning to expand, retrofit or modernise their existing facilities. It also supports terminals that want to test and improve their current operations. These projects often require decisions about mission-critical software and automation while many uncertainties and dependencies remain. Portwise helps reduce the risks associated with these uncertainties during terminal automation and implementation projects.
For this purpose, Portwise has developed emulation capabilities based on its proven simulation model libraries. The models are tailored for different purposes: models that represent the terminal layout, equipment and operational flows in detail; and models that connect to real terminal software, such as the Terminal Operating System (TOS), Equipment Control System (ECS), Fleet Management System (FMS) and other supplier systems.
This allows terminals to test software, interfaces, process logic, control rules and operational behaviour in a controlled digital environment before these systems affect live operations.
Implementation-focused emulation answers questions such as:
What software versions, configurations or interfaces need to be validated before go-live?
How do the TOS, ECS, FMS and equipment control systems behave when they are connected in one operational flow?
Which issues are caused by individual systems, and which issues arise from integration between suppliers?
Can standard operational processes be executed as intended under near-to-live circumstances?
How does the terminal respond to exceptions, delays, unavailable equipment or changed planning decisions?
Which issues are critical for go-live, and which can be managed through procedures, phasing or later improvement?
Performance-focused emulation provides insights into:
What performance can be expected when actual software logic is tested under realistic terminal conditions?
Can my terminal achieve the planned service levels during typical, peak and high-load scenarios?
How do automated vehicles, cranes, yard equipment and control systems interact during complex operations?
What improvements can be realised by changing software settings, planning rules, control logic or operational procedures?
Can a certain terminal design, software configuration and automation concept accommodate the required service levels over a longer period?
How can operational staff be trained in new systems and procedures before and after go-live?
Portwise brings over 20 years of experience in terminal simulation and automation
We have a dedicated team of simulation, emulation and automation specialists who develop, maintain and apply Portwise’s in-house model libraries. Our emulation environments reflect the complexity of automated terminals in detail, including equipment behaviour, operational flows, control logic and software interactions.
Our experts create realistic models and connect them efficiently to mission-critical terminal systems. Supported by robust IT infrastructure and deep operational knowledge, our team ensures that emulation environments are structured, secure and available for future testing, training and operational improvement.
A strong example of the value of terminal emulation is found in automation implementation projects, where software, suppliers and operational teams need to be aligned before go-live.
The value Portwise delivers:
- Quantitative insight into terminal systems with many uncertainties, dependencies and software interfaces.
- Detailed emulation for automated and semi-automated container terminal operations.
- Different levels of detail for implementation testing, performance validation and staff training.
- Tailored emulation environments for specific terminal layouts, equipment types and operational concepts.
- Validation of new software versions, control logic, interfaces and handling strategies before live deployment.
- Support in identifying, analysing and prioritising issues found during emulation runs.
What makes Portwise different?
- Emulation environments based on proven simulation models and operational terminal knowledge.
- Dedicated team of modelling, automation and emulation experts with a long track record.
- Experience with TOS, ECS, FMS, automated equipment and supplier integration in terminal projects.
- State-of-the-art tools to analyse emulation results and translate these into practical implementation insights.
- Independent and vendor-neutral advice focused on the terminal operator’s operational performance and go-live readiness.