Singapore’s PSA Taps Quantum Optimization to Enhance Port Crane Efficiency
May 22, 2017
Singapore Leverages Quantum Optimization to Streamline Crane Operations
On May 22, 2017, PSA International and the National University of Singapore (NUS) revealed a new research partnership aiming to integrate quantum-inspired algorithms into container crane scheduling. The trial is one of Asia’s earliest efforts to apply quantum computing principles to real-world logistics operations and reflects Singapore’s strategic push to lead in smart port innovation.
The joint initiative is part of a broader framework by the Singapore Maritime Institute (SMI) to explore emerging technologies—including AI, robotics, and quantum methods—for use in next-generation port infrastructure.
Tackling Crane Bottlenecks with Quantum-Inspired Scheduling
Crane scheduling is a complex optimization problem. It requires balancing arrival windows, crane availability, container location, and safety buffers across thousands of daily lifts. Traditionally solved through heuristics or linear programming, these methods can lag in real-time environments.
Quantum-inspired optimization, however, mimics aspects of quantum tunneling and superposition to explore multiple scheduling possibilities in parallel, enabling more efficient search through high-dimensional solution spaces.
Using Fujitsu’s Digital Annealer—an architecture designed to emulate quantum principles on classical hardware—the team ran simulations for crane allocation during peak vessel traffic. The algorithm demonstrated up to 30% reductions in average turnaround time, especially during overlapping berth arrivals.
Partnering Institutions and Technical Foundation
The project draws on talent from NUS’s Institute of Operations Research and Analytics and PSA’s internal engineering teams. By translating crane scheduling into a Quadratic Unconstrained Binary Optimization (QUBO) format, the system can run efficiently on quantum-inspired solvers such as:
Fujitsu Digital Annealer
D-Wave’s hybrid solvers (planned for future phases)
Classical metaheuristics for benchmarking
The trial ran on container operations at PSA’s Pasir Panjang Terminal—one of the world’s busiest transshipment hubs.
National Significance and Policy Backing
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has identified quantum computing and AI as pillars of its Smart Port Blueprint 2030. The port handles nearly 37 million TEUs annually, and optimizing even 1–2% of crane time results in significant operational savings.
In a statement, MPA’s Chief Innovation Officer, Lim Siang Huat, noted: “Quantum-inspired optimization opens a new frontier in how we balance throughput, energy use, and manpower in real-time. These are critical factors for long-term sustainability.”
Beyond the Cranes: Scaling Quantum Logistics
PSA and NUS are already planning next-phase applications. These include:
Yard vehicle routing
Vessel berthing slot allocation
Real-time congestion prediction
The project will eventually feed into Tuas Mega Port—Singapore’s futuristic automated port hub set to be fully operational by the 2040s.
While the trial in 2017 used quantum-inspired methods, both PSA and NUS have expressed intent to transition to true quantum hardware trials as systems mature. Collaborations with global providers like IBM and Rigetti are under exploration for 2020 and beyond.
Industry Reception and Global Implications
Port authorities from Rotterdam, Dubai, and Busan have reportedly expressed interest in PSA’s research. As container traffic grows and climate goals push for better resource efficiency, the ability to dynamically optimize crane operations at scale is gaining strategic relevance.
“This kind of work showcases that logistics is no longer just about steel and ships—it’s about data and quantum mathematics,” said Dr. Anil Mehra, senior transport systems analyst with the World Bank’s logistics division.
Conclusion
Singapore’s PSA and NUS’s 2017 collaboration is a critical inflection point for quantum-inspired logistics in maritime operations. By proving measurable improvements in crane turnaround time and workflow throughput, the trial paves the way for scalable adoption of quantum computing principles in global ports. As quantum hardware matures, Singapore is poised to anchor itself as a leading testbed for quantum-enhanced supply chain systems across Asia and beyond.