AIS stands for Automatic Idenification of Ships  In the context of shipping, it’s a maritime navigation safety communication system that uses VHF radio to transmit information about a vessel to other vessels and shore stations. This information is used to improve collision avoidance, monitor vessel movements, and aid in situational awareness. 

 

What it does:

Transmits Vessel Data:

AIS equipped vessels broadcast information like their name, MMSI (Maritime Mobile Service Identity), location, course, speed, and other relevant data. 

Enhances Safety:

This information is used by other vessels to avoid collisions and by shore stations for monitoring and tracking. 

Improves Situational Awareness:

AIS provides a clearer picture of the surrounding marine environment, helping mariners make more informed decisions. 

Mandated by IMO:

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) mandates the carriage of AIS on large vessels, and many governments also require it on smaller vessels. 

 

How it works:

Transponders:

AIS utilizes transponders, which are devices that automatically transmit information about a vessel. 

VHF Radio:

The information is transmitted using Very High Frequency (VHF) radio waves. 

GPS Integration:

AIS systems typically integrate with a vessel’s GPS to provide accurate location data. 

Data Exchange:

AIS transceivers on other vessels can receive and process this data, creating a network of information exchange. 

 

Key benefits:

Collision Prevention:

AIS helps vessels avoid collisions by providing real-time information about the positions and movements of other vessels. 

Tracking and Monitoring:

AIS allows for the tracking and monitoring of vessel movements, which is useful for search and rescue operations, port authorities, and other stakeholders. 

 
Improved Navigation:
AIS provides additional navigational information, contributing to safer and more efficient marine operations. 

Shore Based Monitoring System

Meridian SeaTrak Application can be configured as a shore based monitoring system

Key Features include:.

  •  Set up the co-ordinates of a base station and draw rings around the base station to quickly measure the distance from the base station.
  • Log all incoming AIS data so this can be played back if an incident occured.
  •  Set up boundaries and warn if a vessel enters a restricted zone. The system can be configured to send a SMS message to a mobile phone(s)
  • Mark the position of a casualty and use tidal stream information predict where the casualty has drifted.
  • For a port or harbour ability to set up buoy co-ordinates and display them on the chart.
  • Click on any AIS target and view all the known information about the vessel.
  • Tidal predictions for the closest tidal port.
  • Real tidal predictions using Tidal Diamonds on the chart.
  • Interface with any AIS unit with NMEA data Output.