Integrated Satellite–Terrestrial Connectivity for Autonomous Ships: Survey and Future Research Directions

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.

Autonomous ships for container shipping in the Arctic routes

“…Lower operating expenses of autonomous ship alternatives makes them viable for Arctic shipping. With ongoing development in sensor and communication technologies, autonomous ships will soon be able to ensure navigational safety and environmental protection to a degree at least as safe as other conventional shipping routes [45,46].…”

“…The Maritime Unmanned Navigation through Intelligence in Networks (MUNIN) project lead by the Norwegian stakeholders concluded that it is possible to achieve a full degree of automation in ship operations, but a few constraints exist [42]. The constraints include improved sensors and telecommunication technologies than currently used in conventional shipping, the regulatory framework at the national and international level, and cost-effectiveness [45,46]. A critical design factor for the execution of ocean shipping with fully autonomous ships is the implementation of more reliable technical systems on-board, compared to what is applied in present conventional ships [45].…”

“…For instance, through a simulation experiment, Höyhtyä and Martio [46] show that a delay of more than 3 s in AIS-based situational awareness data transmission between ship and shore and ship to ship can lead to less than 100 m distance between ships increasing the chance of collision. The best approach to ensure smooth communication for autonomous ships would be to use a hybrid approach by integrating multiple radio frequency technologies such as 6G system, very high frequency (VHF) and digital high frequency (DHF) etc.…”

“…The best approach to ensure smooth communication for autonomous ships would be to use a hybrid approach by integrating multiple radio frequency technologies such as 6G system, very high frequency (VHF) and digital high frequency (DHF) etc. [45,46]. Morveover, geostationary satellite orbit (GSO) satellites are needed to ensure long-range communication services in all ocean areas.…”

“…Morveover, geostationary satellite orbit (GSO) satellites are needed to ensure long-range communication services in all ocean areas. Low earth orbit (LEO) and Highly lliptical orbit (HEO) satellites are particularly essential for the Arctic regions [45,46].…”