Global considerations for vessel traffic control and electronics navigation systems on inland waterways

Abstract

Abstract only given, as follows. The Center for Navigation at the Volpe National Transportation Systems Center has been actively involved in the study, design and development of maritime vessel traffic management systems and electronics aids for pilotage. At the outset of these activities several years ago, development projects focused on the needs of the particular inland waterway in question. These early programs resulted in some interesting breakthroughs that included the first vessel traffic management system using the Global Positioning System (GPS) on an American inland waterway. A significant byproduct of that project was the most advanced buoy positioning system in the world using GPS. Trends in system developments for vessel traffic management systems and electronics aids for pilotage have assumed global rather than insular characteristics. This paper describes how the developments on the Saint Lawrence Seaway, for example, have accelerated the development of similar systems for other waterways such as the Panama Canal. In addition, a two-pronged evolution in maritime technology is examined. First, modern day vessel tracking and pilotage systems must be constructed with a global perspective. Second, the development, or enhancement, of vessel tracking systems no longer will be acceptable without a concomitant commitment to electronics aids for pilotage.