In the ever-evolving world of maritime technology, a recent study published in ‘Frontiers in Marine Science’ (which translates to ‘Frontiers in Ocean Science’) has caught the attention of professionals in the field. The research, led by Rui Xue from the College of Information and Communication Engineering at Harbin Engineering University in China, introduces a novel algorithm designed to improve the positioning accuracy of small maritime unmanned vehicles (SMUVs) in challenging sea conditions.
The study addresses a common issue faced by SMUVs: the instability of their positioning trajectory tracking due to the constant shaking caused by waves and winds. This instability results in impulse noise in pseudo-range measurements, which can significantly affect the vehicle’s navigation and overall performance. To tackle this problem, Xue and his team proposed a Kalman filter algorithm that combines approximate message passing (AMP) and variational Bayesian (VB) under a fusion positioning model of 5G and Beidou Navigation System (BDS).
The AMP algorithm predicts the instantaneous position movement caused by waves, while the VB algorithm smooths out the pulse error in trajectory tracking caused by intermittent shielding. In simpler terms, the AMP algorithm helps the SMUV understand its immediate movements due to waves, and the VB algorithm helps it correct any errors in its path caused by temporary obstructions.
The results of the study are promising. In 100 positioning epochs, when the impact of waves on SMUV was 20 times, 30 times, and 40 times, the root mean square error of the proposed algorithm was 1.19 meters, 1.26 meters, and 1.27 meters respectively. Compared to the adaptive variational Bayesian algorithm, the positioning accuracy improved by 7.75%, 16.4%, and 24.4%. As Xue puts it, “The proposed algorithm can achieve high-precision positioning and tracking, and the performance of the algorithm is better than that of the comparison scheme when the amplitude and frequency of the waves are greater.”
So, what does this mean for the maritime industry? The improved positioning accuracy and stability offered by this algorithm can significantly enhance the performance of SMUVs. This could lead to more efficient and safer operations in various maritime sectors, from offshore oil and gas exploration to underwater surveying and environmental monitoring.
Moreover, the use of 5G and BDS in this algorithm opens up new opportunities for the integration of advanced communication and navigation technologies in maritime operations. As the maritime industry continues to embrace digital transformation, such advancements can pave the way for more innovative and efficient solutions.
In the words of Xue, “The proposed algorithm can achieve high-precision positioning and tracking, and the performance of the algorithm is better than that of the comparison scheme when the amplitude and frequency of the waves are greater.” This statement underscores the potential of this research to drive significant improvements in maritime technology and operations.
As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the work of researchers like Rui Xue and his team at Harbin Engineering University will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping its future. The study, published in ‘Frontiers in Marine Science’, is a testament to the power of innovation and the potential of technology to transform the maritime sector.