GPS-GSM based inland vessel tracking system for automatic emergency detection and position notification

Abstract

In this paper, an upgraded version of vehicle tracking system is developed for inland vessels. In addition to the features available in traditional VTS (Vehicle Tracking System) for automobiles, it has the capability of remote monitoring of the vessel's motion and orientation. Furthermore, this device can detect capsize events and other accidents by motion tracking and instantly notify the authority and/or the owner with current coordinates of the vessel, which is obtained using the Global Positioning System (GPS). This can certainly boost up the rescue process and minimize losses. We have used GSM network for the communication between the device installed in the ship and the ground control. So, this can be implemented only in the inland vessels. But using iridium satellite communication instead of GSM will enable the device to be used in any sea-going ships. At last, a model of an integrated inland waterway control system (IIWCS) based on this device is discussed.