Abstract
An autonomous vessel uses multiple different radio technologies such as satellites, mobile networks and dedicated narrowband systems, to connect to other ships, services, and the remote operations center (ROC). In-ship communication is mainly implemented with wired technologies but also wireless links can be used. In this survey paper, we provide a short overview of autonomous and remote-controlled systems. This paper reviews 5G-related standardization in the maritime domain, covering main use cases and both the role of autonomous ships and that of people onboard. We discuss the concept of a connectivity manager, an intelligent entity that manages complex set of technologies, integrating satellite and terrestrial technologies together, ensuring robust in-ship connections and ship-to-outside connections in any environment. This survey paper describes the architecture and functionalities of connectivity management required for an autonomous ship to be able to operate globally. As a specific case example, we have implemented a research environment consisting of ship simulators with connectivity components. Our simulation results on the effects of delays to collision avoidance confirm the role of reliable connectivity for safety. Finally, we outline future research directions for autonomous ship connectivity research, providing ideas for further work.
Highlights
Different autonomous systems such as cars, robots, drones, and ships rely on the same environmental detection techniques [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17]
Initial tests with delayed automatic identification system (AIS) data transmission were carried out using the current configuration of the ship handling simulator
Since the ship is equipped with numerous sensors, actuators, and radio technologies, gateway devices and connectivity management are needed to efficiently use the resources and to ensure the safety and integrity of the operations
Summary
Different autonomous systems such as cars, robots, drones, and ships rely on the same environmental detection techniques [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12,13,14,15,16,17] They will need data transmission and remote updatability for sensors. Novelty in this article: Updated technology survey for unmanned and remote-controlled surface vessels with future research directions. Focus on 5G standardization, integrated satellite–terrestrial communications, and discussion on how to use ship simulators in connectivity research
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