SIMON (Smart Water Protection Inspired by 4-dimensional Underwater Monitoring) addresses the growing need for efficient, high-resolution environmental monitoring in complex port ecosystems such as the Port of Hamburg. Current monitoring approaches are spatially and temporally limited, costly, and constrained by personnel shortages and inaccessible areas, resulting in insufficient detection of pollution events and ecological risks.
The project’s objective is to develop an innovative, autonomous underwater monitoring system based on a portable AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) equipped with miniaturised sensors and AI-based analytics. SIMON enables continuous, cost-efficient 4D monitoring (space and time) of key water quality parameters, including oxygen levels, pollutants and biological indicators, as well as intelligent detection of oil leaks and ecological hotspots. The system combines sensor fusion, real-time communication and advanced algorithms to significantly enhance data quality while reducing monitoring costs. The collected data will be seamlessly integrated into the digital port twin of the Hamburg Port Authority, enabling real-time visualisation, enhanced decision-making and predictive environmental management.
In line with the IAPH Sustainability Awards evaluation criteria, SIMON demonstrates a high degree of innovation through the integration of robotics, AI and miniaturised sensing into a modular, scalable monitoring platform. It reflects vision and leadership by advancing the digital transformation of port environmental management. The project contributes directly to sustainability and UN SDGs, particularly water quality protection and biodiversity conservation, by enabling early detection of pollution and supporting targeted mitigation measures. Furthermore, SIMON is characterised by strong multi-stakeholder cooperation, involving port authorities, research institutions and industry partners, and its design ensures transferability to other ports and offshore applications.
By delivering measurable improvements in monitoring efficiency, environmental protection and cost reduction, SIMON provides a scalable and impactful solution for sustainable port management.