News / Bristol Port
Bristol port industry receives a share of £1m for AI innovation
The Bristol Port Company is embarking on an AI-driven innovation project aimed at revolutionising safety and operational efficiency within its ports and warehouses.
Robok, a University of Cambridge AI spinout, has secured £1 million in funding from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) for its groundbreaking PALLETS project.
As part of this initiative, The Bristol Port Company will receive a share of the funding to integrate AI-powered technology into its operations.
PALLETS, which stands for Proactive AI-powered Solutions for Logistics Efficiency, Transparency, and Safety, is set to introduce an industry-first AI solution designed to enhance real-time hazard detection and streamline operations.
The Bristol Port Company is embarking on an AI-driven innovation project aimed at revolutionising safety and operational efficiency within its ports and warehouses – photo: Bristol Port
By leveraging AI integrated with existing CCTV systems, PALLETS transforms video monitoring into a proactive tool that not only detects hazards but also improves logistics efficiency.
The technology aims to significantly enhance safety standards and address operational inefficiencies at logistics hubs.
David Brown, chief executive of The Bristol Port Company, said: “We are thrilled to continue our collaboration with Robok and utilise their AI expertise to identify potential accidents before they occur.
“The PALLETS project is providing us with valuable insights into how AI can further enhance the safety and efficiency of our operations. The early results have been highly encouraging, and we look forward to expanding our partnership.”
This project is part of UKRI’s initiative to accelerate the responsible adoption of AI technologies, particularly within the transport and logistics sectors.
The Bristol Port Company is one of several key partners, alongside other influential organisations such as the Port of Dover and Freeport East.
“Our technology has the potential to revolutionise the infrastructure industry, starting with ports,” said Hao Zheng, co-founder and chief executive of Robok – photo: Robok/University of Cambridge
The diverse consortium of experts in AI, security, logistics, and academic research is focused on tackling challenges like hazard detection and operational bottlenecks. The PALLETS project, which is set to run until March 2025, aims to set new benchmarks for AI-driven efficiency and safety in UK ports.
Hao Zheng, co-founder and chief executive of Robok, stated: “Our technology has the potential to revolutionise the infrastructure industry, starting with ports. This is especially significant for the UK, where 95 per cent of imports and exports are transported by sea.”
This latest development follows a £750,000 funding package secured by Bristol Port last year from a consortium led by the West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA), aimed at decarbonising industries around the historic Avonmouth port.
Main photo: The Bristol Port Company
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