In this interview, Prajith Nair, CEO of Docker Vision, throws light on their services in AI-based product company focused on port automation.
Prajith Nair, CEO of Docker Vision, keeps it concise: “We provide a solution for port operators and container handling stations. But that’s not all — we’re like a toll gate, ensuring seamless port automation from start to finish.” Founded in Kochi, India, in 2021, Docker Vision n is an AI-based product company focused on port automation. Its key product, docR, is a Gate Automation Software that integrates with any Terminal Operating System (TOS) or thirdparty software, making it highly adaptable. We sat down with him, and Dr. Anita Pillai, Chief Strategy Officer at Docker Vision to understand more about their functioning in the maritime industry.
What challenge in the shipping or logistics ecosystem are you solving? What makes your solution stand out?
Being a startup, we need to convey that we can provide them with the solutions, and how good we are on the technological front. So, first time deployment, getting first few clients, that’s the main challenge. Our 95 per cent accurate results, accessible solutions that work with a variety of cameras, and super-fast implementation of products makes us stand out. We are cost-effective and seamless, making us confident in the services we offer.
What inspired the idea. What have been some breakthroughs along the way?
When our solution reached an accuracy of 95 per cent in 2023, we started marketing. I am an electrical engineer with more than 14 years of experience in hardware, sensors, equipment and all. And my co-founder Athira, she is into data science with over 9 years of experience in computer vision and deep learning. She has worked with many real-time projects involving autonomous vehicles. Another founding team member brings us 25 years of experience in the shipping industry. Us coming together makes our solutions stand out.
Who are your primary customers, and how are you adapting your solution to meet the demands of a fast-changing logistics landscape in India and beyond?
We are grateful to UL Kochi and MIT Logistics for helping us to do the trial of our products. Our company’s focus lies on the midrange of companies who have more than 200,000 containers annually. We have that in-house ability and in-house team for AI development, and we do customisations based on our clients’ needs.
How are you approaching market entry and expansion? Which regions or industry verticals have shown the strongest response so far?
We have received positive responses from our trials, and from areas such as the Gulf region, especially Hub71. We hope to expand to Africa and Southeast Asian nations.
Have you secured any funding? What does your roadmap look like going forward?
Our first funding was through an accelerator program – Sanchi Connect. We got two VCs on board – Thinkuate and SeaFund. We received a total funding of `50 lakhs, followed by a grant of `1 crore from the USHUS program, which is a partnership between IIT Madras and Cochin Shipyard. We will be using this to enhance the product further and create solutions for the yard with room for customisation.
