Vessel Remote Access Gating for Secure Maintenance Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
The maintenance of unmanned and remote-controlled vessels poses a significant security risk due to the need for external access to the maintenance network, which could lead to unauthorized control or malicious actions if not properly managed.
Innovation Solution
A vessel secure remote access system that includes a maintenance access device and a remote control switch, allowing controlled remote access to the vessel operations systems, prioritizing local authorization and enabling/disabling access via a secure link to prevent unauthorized access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If external access to the maintenance network is allowed, then maintenance operations can be performed remotely, but security risks increase substantially
Solution Approach 1:
A remote control switch is introduced as an intermediary device between the maintenance access device and the maintenance network. This switch acts as a gatekeeper that must be in the 'on' position to allow any remote access. The remote control switch is controlled by both local authorization (physical access to the switch) and remote authorization (electronic commands), creating a dual-layer security mechanism that enables remote maintenance while preventing unauthorized access.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements partial action by requiring multiple conditions to be met before full access is granted. The remote control switch must be both physically enabled locally and electronically authorized remotely before the maintenance access device can connect to the maintenance network. This layered approach provides sufficient security control while still allowing legitimate remote maintenance operations to proceed.
2Reliability
If maintenance access is restricted to authorized personnel only, then system security is improved, but maintenance flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts access control based on operational context. The remote control switch can be toggled between 'on' and 'off' states depending on whether the vessel is in port or at sea. When in port, local personnel can enable the switch for maintenance operations. When at sea, the switch remains off unless remotely authorized, providing context-appropriate security while maintaining flexibility for authorized maintenance operations.
Solution Approach 2:
Access control is segmented into multiple independent layers: the remote control switch (physical/local control), the maintenance access device (remote access capability), and the maintenance network (target system). Each layer can be independently controlled and authorized, allowing the system to maintain security while providing flexible access paths for different maintenance scenarios (local vs. remote, planned vs. unplanned).
Data Source
AI summary
A vessel secure remote access system and method, comprising; a maintenance access device arranged on the vessel, configured to be connected to vessel operation systems and further to be connected to a remote service station via a first secure link, wherein the remote service station is configured to perform maintenance tasks on the vessel operation systems. A remote control switch is arranged on the vessel configured to be connected to a remote control station, via a second secure link, wherein a disabled state the maintenance access device blocks access to the vessel operation systems, and in an enabled state allows access to the vessel operation systems. The remote control switch is configured to enable or disable the vessel maintenance access device based on commands from the remote control station.