UNIVERSITATEA MARITIMĂ CONSTANȚA
FACULTATEA DE ELECTROMECANICĂ NAVALĂ
Program de studii universitare de licență:
ELECTROTEHNICĂ
Radiocomunicații Navale
Vessels Monitoring System
VTS & Fishery tracking
Student:
ILIE ROMEO
What is Vessel Monitoring System?
Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) is a general term to describe systems that are used
in commercial fishing to allow environmental and fisheries regulatory organizations to track
and monitor the activities of fishing vessels. They are a key part of monitoring control and
surveillance (MCS) programs at national and international levels. VMS may be used to
monitor vessels in the territorial waters of a country or a subdivision of a country, or in
the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ) that extend 200 nautical miles (370.4 km) from
the
coasts of many countries. VMS systems are used to improve the management and
sustainability of the marine environment, through ensuring proper fishing practices and
the prevention of illegal fishing, and thus protect and enhance the livelihoods of
fishermen.
The system uses satellite and cellular based communications from onboard
transceiver units, which certain vessels are required to carry. The transceiver units send
position reports that include vessel identification, time, date, and location, and are mapped
and displayed on the end user’s computer screen. Originally VMS was introduced for
monitoring fishing vessel activity using point to point data communication (often via
satellite) to relay the GPS position of a tracked vessel to the Monitoring Centre. However,
today’s web based AIS ship tracking services can also be considered to be VMS. In addition,
following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, the IMO introduced Long Range Identification and
Tracking (LRIT) for all SOLAS vessels. VMS systems can provide real time information on
vessel location and, in some fisheries, a very good indication of the vessel's activity, based
on the vessel's "signature" or track-line pattern (i.e. whether the vessel is fishing, transiting,
or stopped). However, in some fisheries, this "signature" or pattern information may not
unambiguously identify the vessel's activity, unless augmented in some manner.
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The Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) uses dedicated shipborne equipment that is
installed on-board a fishing vessel and it is used to transmit data reports. Such reports
contain information about the position of the vessel, speed, course and heading; VMS can
also accommodate other auxiliary information (e.g.,meteorological conditions). Such
reports can either be sent automatically or manually by the operator. Data reports are sent to
Fishery Monitoring Centres (FMCs), that store, validate and analyse the data. The
transmission of messages from vessels to the FMCs is performed through the deployment
of communication systems, both terrestrial and satellite. Some of these systems support
bidirectional communication (i.e, not only vessel-to-FMC communication) and this enables
the FMCs to poll or query vessels to send information (e.g., position, status of equipment,
and so on) on demand.
The main components of VMS are the following:
The shipborne VMS equipment
Shipborne VMS equipment, also known as the VMS unit, is installed permanently on the
vessel and it mainly comprises a pair of transmitter and a receiver. The information that is
transmitted
by a vessel with VMS equipment installed con- tains the following fields: a unique identifier
related to the equipment installed, the vessel’s position, the date and time a data report is sent
by the transmitter, and the speed, heading, and course of the vessel.
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The Fishery Monitoring centres (FMCs).
The Fisheries Monitoring Centre is a specialised unit responsible for sea fisheries protection
and surveillance of all fishing vessels equipped with a Vessel Monitoring System. All vessels
operating inside and outside of the EEZ are monitored by the FMC, as are all internationally
registered vessels operating inside the EEZ.
The FMC has responsibility for operating the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS),
an information communications system that tracks vessels via satellite.
The FMCs receive the data reports sent from the vessel’s VMS equipment, extract the data,
perform data validation, store the data and make it available for analysis. The data transmitted
to the FMCs from the vessels are private and only accessible by the authorized personnel of
the FMC.
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The VMS communication systems.
These systems are responsible for securely transmitting data sent from the VMS shipborne
equipment to the FMCs. These systems use both space and terrestrial sources. Depending on
the communication service provider, a VMS communication system might support only one-
direction communication (e.g., Argos (CLS)) or multi-directional communication (Inmarsat-C
and Inmarsat-D+ or Orbcomm).
In one-direction systems, the vessel automatically transmits information at a specified
interval. Bi-directional systems allow vessels to be polled or queried by the FMCs. In this
way, the FMCs are able to ask for information from vessels on demand.
Notably, VMS is not comparable with AIS, as VMS is an application for monitor- ing
exclusively commercial fishing vessels, while AIS is a communication technology. Data
coming from VMS can be used to increase navigational safety, to support Vessel Traffic
Services (VTS) and can be further analysed to derive useful infor- mation, such as resources
optimisation (e.g., fuel consumption). One of the most profound applications based on VMS
data is the monitoring of fishing activities, as described in. This work presents a case study
that assesses the importance of VMS in fisheries management and focuses on the case of the
Portuguese trawl fleet. Another study performs an analysis using VMS data deriving trends
in effort and yield of trawl fisheries in the Mediterranean Sea. A similar approach is also used
in that describes a method using VMS data to identify and annotate trips made by US fishing
vessels in the North Pacific. In the work described in an interesting study using VMS reveals
an increase in fishing efficiency following regulatory changes in a demersal longline fishery.
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The cost of VMS components will vary according to the functionality requirements of
the specific system being implemented. In general the higher the functionality the more
expensive the equipment and required data link (airtime costs). The cost of a VMS system
therefore varies and thus the level of government subsidy (if any) varies according to national
and regional requirements. EU and US VMS systems require expensive onboard equipment
and large amounts of data to be transmitted over satellite link resulting in high airtime
charges, but also provide a very high level of functionality. In other regions where per vessel
cost and huge fleet sizes are an issue, communication technologies such as AIS are used
which significantly reduce equipment and airtime costs whilst delivering acceptable basic
VMS system functionality.
The most basic function of a VMS is to determine the vessel's location at a given
time, and periodically transmit this information, to a monitoring station ashore. Different
VMS systems use different communication technologies, including AIS, Inmarsat, Iridium
and Argos
depending on the functionality required by the particular VMS system. VMS
components on the vessel sometimes are called VMS, or sometimes Automatic Location
Communicators (ALC). These minimally include a GPS antenna and receiver, a computer
(which may be embedded or user-supplied), and a transmitter and antenna appropriate for the
communications that links the vessel to the flag center.
In practice, many of the VMS
components also have applicability, along
with non-VMS marine electronics, to a
wide range of functions aboard a fishing
vessel. These include navigation, finding
fish, collision avoidance, routine voice and
email communications, etc.
Selecting a VMS system is most
dependent on what vendors and models
have been approved by the fishing vessel's
state of registry and the functionality requirements. Normally an authority will specify
specific approved equipment to ensure end to end system integrity and service level meeting
the specific
requirements applicable to the vessel type. For example, some systems require a user
interface on the vessel, whilst others will have a simple black box transceiver with no user
interface.
VMS software and devices for the fishing vessel include:
Absolute Software
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Argonet-vms CLS
Fulcrum Maritime Systems - Vessel Tracking, Fleet Tracking, Fisheries
Monitoring
Skymate
SRT Marine System Solutions
Thrane & Thrane
AST Ltd
BlueTraker
Honeywell
Monicap
Boatracs
CLS America - Thorium VMS
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VMS units principally rely on global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) such
as GPS for position and time information. LORAN may be a backup or
complementary
technology. These transceivers transmit data to monitoring systems generally
using a variety
of communication technologies including terrestrial & satellite AIS and conventional
satellite systems from Inmarsat, Iridium, Argos, Orbcomm or Qualcomm. Increasingly
nations are implementing a mixture of technologies with the largest vessels over 60 tons
being required to use the expensive traditional satellites and smaller vessels to use AIS.
Operated by Inmarsat plc, founded by governments but now commercial,
Inmarsat has a constellation of geosynchronous communications
satellites.
Iridium uses a constellation of 66 Low Earth Orbit satellites to provide
complete global coverage (including all ocean regions and both poles) with
real-time coverage.
Automatic Identification System – AIS is an IMO supported technology –
provides low cost dual terrestrial and long-range satellite maritime data
communications. It offers a base level of VMS functionality with global
coverage at the lowest cost.
Argos uses low Earth orbit European and US satellites in polar orbit, which is
an especially appropriate orbit for vessels operating in high latitudes.
Skymate uses Orbcomm LEO satellites, which is optimized for machine-to-
machine communications, potentially at lower cost than voice-capable
satellite systems. They operate in the VHF and UHF bands, and have
demonstrated
an AIS capability.
Qualcomm provides access to the Iridium satellite systems.
BlueTraker uses both GPRS and Iridium constellation to provide the biggest
flexibility and the lowest communication costs. The BlueTraker is a stand-alone
device fully integrated including the antennas, the communication modules and
a back-up battery. It is also e-logbook ready.
VMS Today?
Nearly three decades on, VMS technology has developed even further. It is still
securely encrypted, and the data transfer is still certified, but as requirements increased
(more frequent positions, up to every 15 minutes in some countries), VMS evolved to work
with other systems such as Iridium, offering two-way transmission. This opened a whole
range of possibilities, such as sending weather reports or storm alerts, and the introduction
of electronic catch reports. In the last 10 years, more countries have developed customized
logbooks designed to be sent through a VMS device to ensure the same levels of data
delivery and protection as the position reports. The fishermen can now report their catch and
their observations instantly (by-catch, protected species), allowing more responsive catch
management. This catch traceability through secure data transmission also ensures
fishermen’s’ compliance and their access to high value markets, acting as a ‘visa’ for the fish
to be landed in port. In Europe, vessels will soon need to record and land any bycatch, and
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again VMS monitoring will help ease and support this process.
BlueTraker VMS System
BlueTraker VMS System is a robust, cost effective and intelligent solution for vessel
monitoring needs. It is the only solution that provides true global coverage and comes with
many unique features. One of those features and probably the most important; it offers the
abilty to adapt to the needs of the end customer.
VMS collects vessel positions using GNSS satellite signals and sends them together
with speed, bearing and optional BlueSenz sensor data to the TDS communication
server.
BlueTraker VMS Terminal intelligently transmits data via either the GSM/GPRS terrestrial
network or the Iridium satellite network at predefined intervals. The telematic data
aggregation server (TDS) processes the received data and delivers it to any third party
VMS Fisheries Monitoring Software application in the appropriate format used at the
National FMC.
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BlueTraker VMS Transponder is a communication terminal specifically developed
to monitor fishing vessels globally. It uses hybrid satellite and GSM/GPRS communication
channels to transmit position, speed and heading in real-time to the fisheries management
authority. BlueTraker VMS transponder can also send catch reports as well as fishing effort
data from our BlueSenz range of sensors. Moreover, BlueTraker VMS transponder offers
bidirectional communication between vessel and Fisheries Monitoring Center via Bluetooth
using our smartphone application (BTApp) or through ConBox 2018 LCD device.
Sensors
BlueSenz is a collection of devices and wireless sensors that communicate with each other,
and they ensure that an FMC receives precise data about their fleet fishing activities. If
fishing activities occur, the devices start to collect data about winch and fishing net activity.
This data is then transferred via BlueTraker VMS to a database server on land.
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ConBox
Features:
• “Alert” button (distress/panic/SOS trigger)
• “Fishing mode” and “Port mode” button selector
• Power LED, satellite and GNSS signal indicators
• “Message Waiting” and “VMS Warning” indicators
• Tamper-evident security seals with serial numbers
• Electronic logbook ready
• Sound alerting (built-in buzzer)
• ConBox Firmware Remote Upgrade feature
• Front panel localisation (optional)
• External powerful buzzer (optional)
• Colour LCD graphic display (3,5”)
• Visual alerting (displayed on the LCD screen)
• Receive and display TEXT message (from FMC)
• Select and send a preconfigured TEXT message to FMC
• Content localisation (texts and reports on the LCD in local
language)
• Current GPS position information (latitude and longitude)
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Software
With the worldwide eLogbook initiative gathering pace helping to eradicate Illegal,
Unregulated and Unreported fishing (IUU); Fisheries Monitoring Centres need to be ready
to introduce Electronic Reporting Systems to ensure the traceability of their fleet’s catches.
BlueTraker VMS integrates with Octopus 10, an advanced touchscreen tablet computer with
built-in data-pass functionality for transferring Catch reports. Octopus 10 allows only
approved Electronic Reporting Systems (ERS) to be integrated and authentication is
required each time Catch report is sent using BlueTraker VMS ensuring that the system
cannot be ‘spoofed’. BlueTraker VMS technology is engineered as a hybrid solution.
Switching between data delivery channels
(satellite or GSM) is
automatically applied, depending
on the vessel’s
position and location. BlueTraker
VMS system enables integration with
the existing FMC infrastructure
regardless of the communication
channel.
OCTOPUS 10
Features:
Out-of-the-Box approach makes BlueTraker VMS onboard system ready to be
used without additional interfacing, modifications and testing
Pre-installed HMI application makes vessel data, such as position and speed of the
vessel, fuel level, engine temperature, etc., available to the FMC. In addition to
above, circular messages can be sent from FMC to any or all vessels
An optional eLogbook application, which handles reporting according to ERS
requirements (Catch Report, Transhipment Report, Landing Report, etc.) is fully
compliant with international fisheries regulations and requirements. eLogbook
software applications may also come from national, local software providers in
case they qualify their product as “BlueTraker Certified Software”
An Optional OceanMail application enables text messaging anywhere on the
planet from the vessel to FMC or vice versa; Octopus 10 enables other third-party
applications to be embedded into the product which is a subject of successful
“BlueTraker Certified Software” approval process.
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SecondScreen
SecondScreen is a web-based software application
that delivers valuable insights about fleet fishing
activities directly to Fisheries Monitoring Centres
(FMCs). This interactive application enables
advanced real-time tracking, monitoring and control
over BlueTraker devices through an innovative,
user-friendly and feature-rich software interface.
BTApp (SmartPhone)
BTApp is a communication smartphone application for fishing vessel
captains, allowing distress alerting and communication with FMC
(sending and receiving custom text messages between captain and
FMC).
Telematic Data Server (TDS)
Telematic Data Server (TDS) is used for secure
processing, storage, re-formatting and forwarding the
collected vessel's data. It collects data from the
BlueTraker transponders, and after processing, the server
sends data to the VMS monitoring software using
internet and Web Services Protocols.
Embedded Geozones &
Boundary Lines
Any maritime "geographical area (Geozone/Geofence) or
boundary line" (together we call them MLG objects), no matter
their complexity and diversity, can now be added to your VMS
system by our team of experts following your wishes and
requests. MBL objects will be uploaded to the Telematic Data
Server (TDS), from which they may be sent to one or a group
of BlueTraker devices.
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What is Vessel Tracking Services (VTS)
A Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) is implemented based on IMO Resolution A.857 and
is provided by a competent authority to improve the efficiency of vessel traffic movement
and improve safety of navigation within port approaches or through hazardous areas; for
example, through a TSS (Traffic Separation Scheme). Within the territorial sea (12 nautical
miles), a VTS can be mandatory. Outside of the Territorial Sea, a VTS is voluntary.
VTS is a specialist port and waterway monitoring system used by authorities,
owners and operators of ports, waterways and infrastructure to enhance safety and
efficiency of commercial operations. VTS is not the system that collects and presents
vessel traffic information to the VTS Operator. It is the service provided by the VTS
operator to the ships within the VTS Area. The Service assists the mariner regarding safe
entry and exit of a port or to manage traffic within Straits, Coastal or Offshore areas where
congestion or high risk issues cause complex navigational circumstances. However, a VTS
System may be used to gather information about the vessel traffic situation within the VTS
area and to assist VTS Operators to interpret it such that important details can be quickly
and efficiently communicated to the mariner.
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Modern VTS or VTMIS Systems provide much greater levels of situational
awareness than their predecessors and with integrated sensors and communication services
they can cover an area that is well beyond the visual capability of the human eye and in all
weather conditions. Therefore, in many ways, the VTS Systems are relied on by VTS
Operators as their main tool for maintaining the necessary level of situational awareness for
the whole of the VTS area. Even when there is a Pilot on board an incoming vessel, the VTS
Operator will frequently have a better view of the traffic situation as he has a greater range
of sensor data available to him about all traffic that is approaching a vessel from all
directions.
A modern integrated, multi-sensor VTS System can now be considered to provide
similar capability to some military maritime surveillance systems such that there is little
difference between the technologies used for VTS and for other law enforcement
applications, such as Coastal Surveillance. The modern VTS System can also do much more
than the systems of 10 years ago such that the protection of the marine environment, which
is part of the IALA definition of a VTS, can become a reality of the day to day operation of
the VTS.
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The IALA VTS Manual (2016) describes the main objectives of a Vessel Traffic
Service as follows:
Aid the Mariner in the safe use of navigable waterways
Afford unhindered access to pursue commercial and leisure activities
Contribute to keeping the seas, and adjacent environment, free from pollution.
The VTS Manual lists the most important functions of a VTS as those related
to:
Safety of Life at Sea
Safety of Navigation
Efficiency of Vessel Traffic Movement
Protection of the Marine Environment
Supporting Maritime Security
Supporting Law Enforcement
Protection of adjacent communities & infrastructure
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What is the role of VTS in respect to Maritime Security?
It is clearly recognised as a function of a VTS and in this case it is clear that VTS means
“system” and not “service.“ The ISPS Code sets out clear guidance for assessing the
security of a Ship and a Port Facility and for Ports it sets out minimum functional security
requirements that include Security equipment, Monitoring and Controlling access and
suitable Communication facilities. In establishing a VTS it is clear that the sensors and
systems used would also meet the needs of the ISPS code for Security from the Marine-side
approaches.
References:
1. http://www.vtmis.info/solutions/vms/index.html
2. https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov
3. “PROCEEDINGS OF THE INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON
INTEGRATED FISHERIES MONITORING” - Sydney, Australia 1-5
February 1999
4. http://www.track-vessels.com/vessel-management/
5. https://fisheries.groupcls.com/fishermen/vessel-monitoring-systems/
6. https://www.furuno.com/en/systems/coastal-monitoring/
7. https://srt-marine.com/systems/vts-ports-waterways-system/
8. https://www.theastgroup.com/uk/sectors/maritime-offshore/fishing/
9. https://www.bluetraker.com/solutions/vessel-monitoring-system/
10. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vessel_monitoring_system
11. https://web.archive.org/web/20070312043650/
http://ec.europa.eu/fisheries/cfp
/control_enforcement/vms_en.htm
12. Matti Aaltonen – “Vessel Traffic Services and Information Systems”
13. Alexander Artikis, Dimitris Zissis – “Guide to Maritime Informatics”
- Springer
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