Vessel Automatic Identification System (AIS)

Automatic Identification System (AIS)

The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is an automatic tracking system used on ships and by vessel traffic services (VTS) for identifying and locating vessels by electronically exchanging data with other nearby ships, AIS base stations, and satellites. When satellites are used to detect AIS signatures then the term Satellite-AIS (S-AIS) is used. AIS information supplements marine radar, which continues to be the primary method of collision avoidance for water transport.

Vessels fitted with AIS transceivers and transponders can be tracked by AIS base stations located along coast lines or, when out of range of terrestrial networks, through a growing number of satellites that are fitted with special AIS receivers which are capable of de-conflicting a large number of signatures.

The International Maritime Organization's International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea requires AIS to be fitted aboard international voyaging ships with gross tonnage (GT) of 300 or more, and all passenger ships regardless of size.

Aids to navigation (AtoN) and Marine Mammal Detection

The AIS Aids to Navigation (AtoN) product standard was developed with the ability to broadcast the positions and names of objects other than vessels, such as navigational aid and marker positions and dynamic data reflecting the marker's environment (e.g., currents and climatic conditions). These aids can be located on shore, such as in a lighthouse, or on water, platforms, or buoys.

AtoN's enable authorities to remotely monitor the status of a buoy, such as the status of the lantern, as well as transmit live data from sensors (such as weather and sea state) located on the buoy back to vessels fitted with AIS transceivers or local authorities. An AtoN will broadcast its position and Identity along with all the other information. The AtoN standard also permits the transmit of 'Virtual AtoN' positions whereby a single device may transmit messages with a 'false' position such that an AtoN marker appears on electronic charts, although a physical AtoN may not be present at that location.

Fastwave has developed a unique method of using "Virtual Aton" positions to indicate the location of marine mammals to vessels in the area. This is illustrated below. Please contact Fastwave for further information.

SRT Marine Systems Overview

Carbon AIS Aton

Carbon is an internationally certified Type 1 and Type 3 AIS AtoN with the world’s lowest power consumption. Offering a full range of features, including transmission of virtual AtoN targets, simple integration with lanterns and external sensors, plus over the air configuration and chaining. The toughened enclosure is designed for continuous, long term use in even the most extreme environments from the equator to the poles.

• Certified Type 1 and Type 3
• Ultra low power consumption in all operating modes
• Designed and manufactured for the toughest of environments
• Integrated GPS antenna with optional external input
• Multiple flexible sensor interfaces
• Proven operational reliability
• Full feature set

Aton Express

Fully certified and integrated Type 1 AIS AtoN with internal rechargeable battery. Designed for quick and easy deployment on even the smallest buoys. Able to operate for over 5 days between charges or connect directly to an external power source for permanent installations. Unique secure quick fit bracket system.

• Certified type 1 AIS AtoN
• Integrated and protected GPS & VHF antennas
• Internal rechargeable battery
• Ultra low power consumption