Journal of Marine Science and Engineering

Research

21 pages, 2260 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Vulnerability Centric System of Systems Analysis on the Maritime Transportation Sector Most Valuable Assets: Recommendations for Port Facilities and Ships

by Chronis Kapalidis, Stavros Karamperidis, Tim Watson and Georgios Koligiannis

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2022, 10(10), 1486; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse10101486 - 13 Oct 2022

Viewed by 2343

Abstract

The maritime sector is a vital component of the global economy. Its international nature supersedes state boundaries and any disruption in its operations could have consequent and collateral global effects, affecting the socio-economic wellbeing of regions, states and peoples. The increasing adoption of [...] Read more.

The maritime sector is a vital component of the global economy. Its international nature supersedes state boundaries and any disruption in its operations could have consequent and collateral global effects, affecting the socio-economic wellbeing of regions, states and peoples. The increasing adoption of digitalisation in the sector, primarily increases efficiency, minimize cost and maximise benefit, while improving safety, simultaneously introduces a new cyber threat landscape. The attack surface has broadened further due to the COVID-19 pandemic, as recent, high-profile cyber attacks to shipping companies have indicated. Cybersecurity is not limited to technology but involves people and business processes. Hence, to mitigate the security risk introduced by cyber threat actors, the industry, like any other, should initially focus on identifying its most critical assets and then adopt risk mitigation measures, spreading from legislative initiatives to company-specific technology solutions. Industry-led initiatives should promote the adoption of cyber-related policies and mechanisms that focus on business continuity. It should be the role of international bodies, classification societies and national authorities to ensure compliance and full implementation of these measures. This paper adopts a System of Systems Analysis to carry out a vulnerability assessment of port and ship ecosystem, while providing insights on the role of the aforementioned entities. Our analysis decomposes the industry’s major assets; ports and ships, to specific subcomponents which are used as the basis of the vulnerability assessment. According to our findings, this approach highlights that the majority of these subcomponents; ports and ships, are increasingly vulnerable to cyber attacks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 534 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Capacity Analysis of Incentive Schemes in Opportunistic Networks

by Ruoyu Feng, Shengming Jiang and Zhichao Zheng

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2022, 10(10), 1474; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse10101474 - 11 Oct 2022

Viewed by 958

Abstract

Many incentive schemes address the selfishness issue in opportunistic networks and show performance improvement by simulations. However, the insights of incentive schemes that affect network performance are not clear. Network capacity analysis can reveal how factors affect performance, which is a guideline for [...] Read more.

Many incentive schemes address the selfishness issue in opportunistic networks and show performance improvement by simulations. However, the insights of incentive schemes that affect network performance are not clear. Network capacity analysis can reveal how factors affect performance, which is a guideline for new designs. To analyze incentive schemes, a well-defined mathematical model is necessary, which cannot be achieved by existing analytical models based on empirical formulas or types of incentive schemes. First, this paper proposes such a model to show the incentive degree with the incentive scheme, cooperation degree, energy usage, buffer usage, and security based on a quantum game model. Verification compares the model with delivery ratios that show impacts on selfish nodes in simulations under two typical incentive schemes. Then, network capacity is analyzed with this model and a sparse clustering regime that has similar mobility to opportunistic networks in order to show factors for future designs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1047 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Absorptive Turbulent Seawater and Parameter Optimization of Perfect Optical Vortex for Optical Communication

by Qingze Yan, Yixin Zhang, Lin Yu and Yun Zhu

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2022, 10(9), 1256; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse10091256 - 06 Sep 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1286

Abstract

In this paper, the optimization of perfect optical vortex (POV) parameter for underwater wireless optical communication link under M-QAM by average bit-error rate (ABER) and the effect of seawtaer turbulence on link information capacity are investigated. The link is absorbent, weakly turbulent, and [...] Read more.

In this paper, the optimization of perfect optical vortex (POV) parameter for underwater wireless optical communication link under M-QAM by average bit-error rate (ABER) and the effect of seawtaer turbulence on link information capacity are investigated. The link is absorbent, weakly turbulent, and bandwidth-limited. In investigating, we use the spectral absorption coefficient to describe the wavelength effect of seawater absorption. Specifically, under the paraxial approximation and Rytov approximation conditions, we define the average signal-to-noise-crosstalk ratio including the system bandwidth factor and derive the bandwidth-limited ABER of the OAM carrier link. Capitalizing on the defined average signal-to-noise crosstalk ratio and the derived bandwidth-limited ABER of link, the novel closed-form expression for the average information capacity of the perfect optical vortex link under M-QAM modulation is proposed. Through the numerical analysis of the ABER and the average information capacity, the POV optimization parameters in specific communication links are obtained and new conclusions are drawn that the average information capacity is restricted by both signal wavelength and the seawater absorption coefficient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 2167 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cyber Physical Systems Security for Maritime Assets

by Iosif Progoulakis, Paul Rohmeyer and Nikitas Nikitakos

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2021, 9(12), 1384; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse9121384 - 05 Dec 2021

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 6435

Abstract

The integration of IT, OT, and human factor elements in maritime assets is critical for their efficient and safe operation and performance. This integration defines cyber physical systems and involves a number of IT and OT components, systems, and functions that involve multiple [...] Read more.

The integration of IT, OT, and human factor elements in maritime assets is critical for their efficient and safe operation and performance. This integration defines cyber physical systems and involves a number of IT and OT components, systems, and functions that involve multiple and diverse communication paths that are technologically and operationally evolving along with credible cyber security threats. These cyber security threats and risks as well as a number of known security breach scenarios are described in this paper to highlight the evolution of cyber physical systems in the maritime domain and their emerging cyber vulnerabilities. Current industry and governmental standards and directives related to cyber security in the maritime domain attempt to enforce the regulatory compliance and reinforce asset cyber security integrity for optimum and safe performance with limited focus, however, in the existing OT infrastructure and systems. The use of outside-of-the-maritime industry security risk assessment tools and processes, such the API STD 780 Security Risk Assessment (SRA) and the Bow Tie Analysis methodologies, can assist the asset owner to assess its IT and OT infrastructure for cyber and physical security vulnerabilities and allocate proper mitigation measures assuming their similarities to ICS infrastructure. The application of cyber security controls deriving from the adaptation of the NIST CSF and the MITRE ATT&CK Threat Model can further increase the cyber security integrity of maritime assets, assuming they are periodically evaluated for their effectiveness and applicability. Finally, the improvement in communication among stakeholders, the increase in operational and technical cyber and physical security resiliency, and the increase in operational cyber security awareness would be further increased for maritime assets by the convergence of the distinct physical and cyber security functions as well as onshore- and offshore-based cyber infrastructure of maritime companies and asset owners. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Maritime Cyber Security: A Global Challenge Tackled through Distinct Regional Approaches

by Stavros Karamperidis, Chronis Kapalidis and Tim Watson

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2021, 9(12), 1323; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse9121323 - 23 Nov 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4641

Abstract

Maritime cyber security is an emerging issue that requires immediate attention, according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Feedback received from global shipping professionals indicate that a common threat to the industry, such as cyber security, is dealt with differently among industry practitioners [...] Read more.

Maritime cyber security is an emerging issue that requires immediate attention, according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Feedback received from global shipping professionals indicate that a common threat to the industry, such as cyber security, is dealt with differently among industry practitioners around the globe. Data collected from two targeted focus groups (one in Europe and the second in Asia, two leading groups in the maritime transport sector) demonstrated that, based on technology adoption maturity, cyber security is perceived differently between these groups. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted these differences. Our findings lead to useful intelligence that will inform key maritime decision makers, both in meeting the IMO requirements and preparing the organization to address cyber risks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3935 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Capacity of the Weakly Absorbent Turbulent Ocean Channel with the Coaxial Double-Position Power Gaussian Vortex

by Qingze Yan, Yun Zhu and Yixin Zhang

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2021, 9(10), 1117; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse9101117 - 14 Oct 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1472

Abstract

Turbulence and absorption of seawater are two important factors affecting the signal transmission quality of underwater optical communication link. Here, we study the channel capacity and bit error rate of an underwater extinction communication link with a coaxial double-position power Gaussian vortex carrier [...] Read more.

Turbulence and absorption of seawater are two important factors affecting the signal transmission quality of underwater optical communication link. Here, we study the channel capacity and bit error rate of an underwater extinction communication link with a coaxial double-position power Gaussian vortex carrier based on Rytov approximation theory. The study finds that channel capacity and bit error rate are the nonlinear functions of the dimensionless structural parameter and reach maximum and minimum values at |α| = 1, respectively. The seawater absorption has a great influence on the channel capacity but not bit error rate. The communication link with large receiving aperture, small transmitting beam diameter, long wavelength of light source in a seawater window, and more OAM channels has high channel capacity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 4282 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Additive Manufacturing and Maritime Spare Parts: Benefits and Obstacles for the End-Users

by Evanthia Kostidi, Nikitas Nikitakos and Iosif Progoulakis

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2021, 9(8), 895; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse9080895 - 19 Aug 2021

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3883

Abstract

3D printing or additive manufacturing (AM) (in the industrial context) is an innovative, as opposed to subtractive, technology, bringing new opportunities and benefits to the spare part supply chain (SPSC). The aim of this work is to capture the views of the stakeholders [...] Read more.

3D printing or additive manufacturing (AM) (in the industrial context) is an innovative, as opposed to subtractive, technology, bringing new opportunities and benefits to the spare part supply chain (SPSC). The aim of this work is to capture the views of the stakeholders at the end of the chain, extruding factors that will benefit the end-user and the factors that are likely to be an obstacle, by employing the questionnaire method. Company objectives regarding spares (cost reductions, improvement of services, space reduction) have been prioritized differently by the stakeholders. The most important barriers according to the participants are the quality assurance of the spare parts made by the new technology followed by the know-how and skills of staff. Other views such as suitable parts are suggested. The practical value of this work, in addition to assessing the readiness of the industry, is that it provides guidance for the successful implementation of AM in the maritime industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 7020 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Real-Time Management of Vessel Carbon Dioxide Emissions Based on Automatic Identification System Database Using Deep Learning

by Yongpeng Wang, Daisuke Watanabe, Enna Hirata and Shigeki Toriumi

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2021, 9(8), 871; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse9080871 - 13 Aug 2021

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2829

Abstract

In this study, we propose an effective method using deep learning to strengthen real-time vessel carbon dioxide emission management. We propose a method to predict real-time carbon dioxide emissions of the vessel in three steps: (1) convert the trajectory data of the fixed [...] Read more.

In this study, we propose an effective method using deep learning to strengthen real-time vessel carbon dioxide emission management. We propose a method to predict real-time carbon dioxide emissions of the vessel in three steps: (1) convert the trajectory data of the fixed time interval into a spatial–temporal sequence, (2) apply a long short-term memory (LSTM) model to predict the future trajectory and vessel status data of the vessel, and (3) predict the carbon dioxide emissions. Automatic identification system (AIS) database of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) vessel were selected as the sample and we reconstructed the trajectory data with a fixed time interval using cubic spline interpolation. Applying the interpolated AIS data, the carbon dioxide emissions of the vessel were calculated based on the International Towing Tank Conference (ITTC) recommended procedures. The experimental results are twofold. First, it reveals that vessel emissions are currently underestimated. This study clearly indicates that the actual carbon dioxide emissions are higher than those reported. The finding offers insight into how to accurately measure the emissions of vessels, and hence, better execute a greenhouse gases (GHGs) reduction strategy. Second, the LSTM model has a better trajectory prediction performance than the recurrent neural network (RNN) model. The errors of the trajectory endpoint and carbon dioxide emissions were small, which shows that the LSTM model is suitable for spatial–temporal data prediction with excellent performance. Therefore, this study offers insights to strengthen the real-time management and control of vessel greenhouse gas emissions and handle those in a more efficient way. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 5930 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of a Ship’s Operational Parameters Using Artificial Intelligence Techniques

by Kiriakos Alexiou, Efthimios G. Pariotis, Theodoros C. Zannis and Helen C. Leligou

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2021, 9(6), 681; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse9060681 - 21 Jun 2021

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2948

Abstract

The maritime industry is one of the most competitive industries today. However, there is a tendency for the profit margins of shipping companies to reduce due to an increase in operational costs, and it does not seem that this trend will change in [...] Read more.

The maritime industry is one of the most competitive industries today. However, there is a tendency for the profit margins of shipping companies to reduce due to an increase in operational costs, and it does not seem that this trend will change in the near future. The most important reason for the increase in operating costs relates to the increase in fuel prices. To compensate for the increase in operating costs, shipping companies can either renew their fleet or try to make use of new technologies to optimize the performance of their existing one. The software structure in the maritime industry has changed and is now leaning towards the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and, more specifically, Machine Learning (ML) for calculating its operational scenarios as a way to compensate the reduction of profit. While AI is a technology for creating intelligent systems that can simulate human intelligence, ML is a subfield of AI, which enables machines to learn from past data without being explicitly programmed. ML has been used in other industries for increasing both availability and profitability, and it seems that there is also great potential for the maritime industry. In this paper the authors compares the performance of multiple regression algorithms like Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Tree Regressor (TRs), Random Forest Regressor (RFR), K-Nearest Neighbor (kNN), Linear Regression, and AdaBoost, in predicting the output power of the Main Engines (M/E) of an ocean going vessel. These regression algorithms are selected because they are commonly used and are well supported by the main software developers in the area of ML. For this scope, measured values that are collected from the onboard Automated Data Logging & Monitoring (ADLM) system of the vessel for a period of six months have been used. The study shows that ML, with the proper processing of the measured parameters based on fundamental knowledge of naval architecture, can achieve remarkable prediction results. With the use of the proposed method there was a vast reduction in both the computational power needed for calculations, and the maximum absolute error value of prediction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 3130 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Maritime Robotics and Autonomous Systems Operations: Exploring Pathways for Overcoming International Techno-Regulatory Data Barriers

by Tafsir Matin Johansson, Dimitrios Dalaklis and Aspasia Pastra

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2021, 9(6), 594; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse9060594 - 30 May 2021

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5384

Abstract

The current regulatory landscape that applies to maritime service robotics, aptly termed as robotics and autonomous systems (RAS), is quite complex. When it comes to patents, there are multifarious considerations in relation to vessel survey, inspection, and maintenance processes under national and international [...] Read more.

The current regulatory landscape that applies to maritime service robotics, aptly termed as robotics and autonomous systems (RAS), is quite complex. When it comes to patents, there are multifarious considerations in relation to vessel survey, inspection, and maintenance processes under national and international law. Adherence is challenging, given that the traditional delivery methods are viewed as unsafe, strenuous, and laborious. Service robotics, namely micro aerial vehicles (MAVs) or drones, magnetic-wheeled crawlers (crawlers), and remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), function by relying on the architecture of the Internet of Robotic Things. The aforementioned are being introduced as time-saving apparatuses, accompanied by the promise to acquire concrete and sufficient data for the identification of vessel structural weaknesses with the highest level of accuracy to facilitate decision-making processes upon which temporary and permanent measures are contingent. Nonetheless, a noticeable critical issue associated with RAS effective deployment revolves around non-personal data governance, which comprises the main analytical focus of this research effort. The impetus behind this study stems from the need to enquire whether “data” provisions within the realm of international technological regulatory (techno-regulatory) framework is sufficient, well organized, and harmonized so that there are no current or future conflicts with promulgated theoretical dimensions of data that drive all subject matter-oriented actions. As is noted from the relevant expository research, the challenges are many. Engineering RAS to perfection is not the end-all and be-all. Collateral impediments must be avoided. A safety net needs to be devised to protect non-personal data. The results here indicate that established data decision dimensions call for data security and protection, as well as a consideration of ownership and liability details. An analysis of the state-of-the-art and the comparative results assert that the abovementioned remain neglected in the current international setting. The findings reveal specific data barriers within the existing international framework. The ways forward include strategic actions to remove data barriers towards overall efficacy of maritime RAS operations. The overall findings indicate that an effective transition to RAS operations requires optimizing the international regulatory framework for opening the pathways for effective RAS operations. Conclusions were drawn based on the premise that policy reform is inevitable in order to push the RAS agenda forward before the emanation of 6G and the era of the Internet of Everything, with harmonization and further standardization being very high priority issues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2779 KiB

Open AccessArticle

GMDSS Equipment Usage: Seafarers’ Experience

by Sanjin Valčić, Antonio Škrobonja, Lovro Maglić and Boris Sviličić

J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2021, 9(5), 476; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse9050476 - 28 Apr 2021

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6002

Abstract

Maritime non-commercial communications are performed using the equipment of Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). This equipment includes numerous devices of different technologies, features and user interfaces, which every officer [...] Read more.

Maritime non-commercial communications are performed using the equipment of Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), under the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS). This equipment includes numerous devices of different technologies, features and user interfaces, which every officer of the watch (OOW) must know how to use. Besides, the equipment, i.e., its technology has not changed significantly in the last 30 years. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to collect and analyze information on how often GMDSS devices are used and whether any modernization is needed. The main research method was a questionnaire survey intended for experienced officers. Each question, as well as the answers of the respondents, were analyzed in detail and presented graphically. The results of the survey analysis indicate that the VHF (Very High Frequency) radiotelephone, Navigational Telex (NAVTEX) receiver, and Enhanced Group Call (EGC) receiver are still very used, while Digital Selective Calling (DSC) devices and MF/HF (Medium Frequency/High Frequency) radios (telephone and telex) are almost unused onboard. Additionally, more than 80% of respondents believe that GMDSS needs modernization. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Advanced Research in Shipping Informatics and Communications

Share This Special Issue

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Keywords

Published Papers (11 papers)

Research

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI