Vessel Identifying Device for Non-AIS Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing navigation systems struggle to detect and identify vessels lacking AIS transponders, particularly those hidden behind obstacles or engaged in illegal activities, leading to potential collisions.
Innovation Solution
A vessel identifying device that uses sensors like radar, Lidar, or cameras to estimate vessel properties such as size and movement, assigns identities based on AIS-like schemes, and transmits these identities via radio signals to enhance detection and tracking of non-AIS vessels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If onboard sensors (radar, Lidar) and AIS signals are used to locate vessels, then vessels with AIS transponders can be reliably detected, but vessels without AIS transponders or hidden behind obstacles cannot be detected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies multi-functionality by combining multiple detection methods (AIS signal reception, radar sensing, Lidar sensing, and optical camera sensing) into a single vessel identification system. This allows the system to detect both AIS-equipped vessels and non-AIS vessels, as well as vessels hidden behind obstacles, thereby resolving the contradiction between detection reliability for AIS vessels and detection coverage for all vessels.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a processing device that receives data from multiple sensors (AIS receiver, radar, Lidar, camera) and integrates this information to identify and track vessels. This intermediary processing layer enables the system to overcome the limitations of individual sensors and achieve comprehensive vessel detection.
2Loss of information
If vessel identification is performed for all detected vessels, then complete maritime tracking is achieved, but false alarms increase due to non-vessel objects being misidentified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by using multiple vessel properties (size, shape, movement pattern, radar cross-section, optical characteristics) rather than relying on a single parameter. The processing device analyzes changes in these parameters over time and compares them against expected vessel characteristics, enabling accurate vessel identification while filtering out non-vessel objects and reducing false alarms.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback by continuously monitoring vessel properties and comparing detected characteristics against known vessel profiles. The processing device uses this feedback to refine identification decisions and distinguish actual vessels from false targets, thereby maintaining tracking completeness while minimizing false alarms.
3Loss of energy
If vessel size estimation is used to determine whether to assign AIS identity, then resource usage is optimized, but detection accuracy may be compromised for vessels near size thresholds
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies partial action by using vessel size estimation as a filtering criterion to determine whether full AIS identity assignment is necessary. Vessels clearly below the size threshold are excluded from tracking, reducing energy consumption. For vessels near the threshold, the system performs more detailed analysis using multiple sensors to ensure accurate classification, thereby balancing energy efficiency with measurement precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances navigation safety by detecting and identifying non-AIS vessels, ensuring they are included in maritime tracking systems, thereby reducing collision risks.
Implementation Method 1
Onboard sensors, such as radar or Lidar
Implementation Method 2
Onboard sensors, such as radar or Lidar
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method of identifying a vessel as well as to a vessel identifying device and a floating object and land installation comprising such a vessel identifying device. The vessel identifying device comprises a processor (14) operative to obtain a position (Pc) of a vessel (40) being sensed by a sensor (12), assign an identity to the vessel, which identity is assigned according to an identity assignment scheme of at least a part of a maritime tracking system, which maritime tracking system is AIS, and provide an identification of the vessel (40) according to the maritime tracking system, the identification comprising the assigned identity and the position (Pc) of the vessel(40), and order a transmitter to transmit the identification of the vessel (40).