In a significant stride for maritime technology, researchers have developed a novel system to measure sea surface height in open waters using a GPS-based approach. This innovation, led by Basyaruddin Ismail Harahap from the Raja Ali Haji Maritime University in Indonesia, offers a promising alternative to traditional methods that rely on pressure or acoustic sensors typically stationed on coasts.
The system, detailed in the Journal of Applied Geospatial Information, employs a U-Blox NEO-8M GPS module mounted on a buoy to gather real-time elevation data. This setup, which also includes an Arduino Mega 2560 and a Micro SD storage module, provides a more flexible and potentially more accurate means of monitoring sea levels in the open ocean.
Harahap explains, “Most current instruments are placed on the coast, making them less effective for measurements in open waters. Our system aims to address this gap by utilizing GPS technology, which is more adaptable to various marine environments.”
The research involved analyzing measurement data using Fourier analysis to identify the main components of sea surface height. The results were impressive, with the system detecting eight primary components, the most dominant having a wave period of 4.29 hours and an amplitude of 6 meters. The Mean Tide Level (MTL) was measured at 4.27 meters, the High-Water Level (HWL) at 11.30 meters, and the Low Water Level (LWL) at -6.90 meters.
While the system showed promising results, it is not without its challenges. The average difference between the measured data and the Fourier model was 1.0798 meters, attributed to factors like satellite signal interference, multipath effects, and atmospheric conditions. Harahap acknowledges these limitations but sees room for improvement. “The results indicate that the GPS NEO-8M can be used as an alternative for monitoring sea surface height in open waters, although it still requires accuracy improvement through signal correction techniques and more precise geoid references.”
For the maritime industry, this technology presents several commercial opportunities. Accurate sea surface height measurements are crucial for understanding tidal patterns and ocean wave dynamics, which are essential for safe and efficient maritime operations. This system could enhance navigation safety, improve offshore operations, and support coastal management efforts.
Moreover, the use of GPS technology offers a cost-effective and scalable solution, potentially making it accessible to a wide range of maritime stakeholders, from shipping companies to coastal communities. As Harahap’s research continues to evolve, the maritime sector can look forward to more advanced and reliable tools for monitoring and understanding our oceans.
In the meantime, the findings published in the Journal of Applied Geospatial Information, which translates to “Journal of Applied Geospatial Information,” serve as a testament to the potential of GPS-based systems in revolutionizing sea level measurement and maritime technology.