Analysis of Radio-Shaded Areas in the Geoje Island Sea Based on the Automatic Identification System (AIS)

Abstract

An automatic identification system (AIS) is often installed on merchant ships and fishing boats to prevent collisions and ensure safe navigation. The location information of ships transmitted from AIS equipment can help maritime traffic control prevent accidents. The southern coast of Korea comprises a complex coastline with numerous fishing boats and transit vessels. In particular, the Tongyeong and Geoje Islands include high-altitude mountains and islands, resulting in several radio-shaded areas where AIS signals cannot be received, owing to geographical effects. However, only a few studies have explored this region and performed practical experiments on the reception status of AIS locations in radio-shaded areas. In this study, we performed an experiment in the Geoje Island Sea on the southern coast to analyze the impact of high terrain on the reception rate and status of automatic identification devices. Two identical pieces of AIS equipment were installed to generate multiple radio waves, and the location data transmitted via different antennae were compared. The experimental analysis forms the basis for identifying the exact location of ships in the event of maritime accidents, facilitating rapid rescue. Moreover, the accuracy of the location transmitted by the AIS equipment can aid in detecting the cause of accidents.