EP4698927A1 - A system and method for testing emergency beacons used in the maritime sector - Google Patents

Abstract

This invention presents a system and method for testing the performance of emergency beacons such as EPIRBs (300) and AIS (500) devices used in the maritime sector The device performs fundamental functions such as demodulation of signals at various frequencies, measurement of power and frequency, and aims for performance optimization through machine learning algorithms. Managed through a user interface (210), this system aims to enhance maritime safety by ensuring compliance with safety standards, error detection, and analysis capabilities.

Description

A SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TESTING EMERGENCY BEACONS USED IN THE MARITIME SECTOR

Technical Field

This invention pertains to the field of maritime safety and emergency response equipment, focusing specifically on an innovative system and method for testing emergency beacons utilized in the maritime sector. Such beacons, known as Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs), play a critical role in the safety protocols of maritime vessels by sending signals to search and rescue services during emergencies. The device subject to this invention is designed to extensively test the functionalities and reliabilities of various types of EPIRBs that operate via COSPAS-SARSAT international satellite systems.

The invention facilitates a wide range of tests to ensure compliance with the annual testing requirements as per the International Maritime Organization (IMO) resolutions, shore-based maintenance protocols, and checks conducted after coding or installation of the beacon. The testing device includes critical parameters such as decoding and demodulating emergency information transmitted on the 406 MHz frequency channel, measuring the frequency and power levels of 406 MHz and 121.5 MHz signals, and assessing the positive/negative phase deviation of the modulated signal, among other significant features.

Moreover, the invention incorporates the application of machine learning algorithms for performance optimization based on data collected during testing processes. This aspect ensures continuous improvement of testing methodologies and firmware updates of the device, keeping it at the forefront of technological advancements in the field of maritime safety equipment testing.

The proposed device is designed with user safety, regulatory compliance, and environmental considerations in mind. It operates within a safe temperature and humidity level range to ensure durability and reliability under various maritime conditions. Additionally, the device adheres to safety standards related to radio frequency interference, explosive atmospheres, and other potential hazards, becoming a versatile and fundamental tool for enhancing safety protocols on maritime vessels.

In summary, this invention addresses the need for a reliable, efficient, and comprehensive testing solution for EPIRBs and similar maritime emergency beacons, significantly contributing to the safety and regulatory compliance of maritime operations worldwide.

State of the Art

The maritime industry, being a cornerstone of global trade, plays a crucial role in the transportation of a significant portion of goods worldwide. This vast and constantly moving industry inherently carries various safety risks. Emergencies at sea require swift and effective intervention, necessitating ships and other maritime vessels to be equipped with various emergency beacons to promptly report their position and status during emergencies. Among these beacons, the most common are Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) and Automatic Identification Systems (AIS).

EPIRBs are of vital importance in the maritime sector and play a key role in lifesaving operations during shipwrecks, sinkings, or other serious emergencies. They transmit signals through international satellite systems like COSPAS-SARSAT, facilitating rapid response from rescue teams. AIS devices, on the other hand, enable ships to automatically share their positions, identities, and other crucial information, playing a significant role in managing and enhancing maritime traffic safety.

The proper functioning of these devices is an integral part of maritime safety. However, the reliability and performance of these devices can vary due to factors such as natural wear, environmental conditions, and technical failures, which can diminish their effectiveness over time. Consequently, the regular testing and maintenance of emergency beacons like EPIRBs and AIS are mandated by international maritime safety standards.

Current testing methods often involve manual procedures, making the process timeconsuming. Particularly, the testing of EPIRBs and AIS devices may require complex setups and multiple stages. This process heavily depends on the attention and expertise of the personnel conducting the tests, increasing the possibility of errors. Additionally, the accuracy of manual tests may not always be consistent, leading to misleading results and potential safety risks.

Technical limitations also restrict the effectiveness of existing testing methods. Some testing equipment, especially in remote or challenging maritime conditions, may not accurately detect and analyze various frequencies and signal types of emergency beacons, limiting the scope and reliability of the testing process. Furthermore, existing technologies do not allow for a wide range of devices to be tested, creating limitations in testing certain types of devices.

Moreover, existing testing systems are often costly. The need for high-quality testing equipment and trained personnel presents a significant financial burden, particularly for small-scale maritime operations. These costs can hinder the continuous maintenance of safety standards in the maritime sector.

Falling behind in technological advancements also poses disadvantages. As maritime safety technologies rapidly evolve, existing testing methods may fall short in adapting to these advancements. This can prevent emergency beacons from being effectively tested in accordance with the latest standards and protocols. Additionally, the lack of regular updates to the software and hardware used in testing processes can further reduce the reliability of test results.

In conclusion, the disadvantages presented by current techniques and technologies pose significant barriers to the effective testing and maintenance of emergency beacons in the maritime sector. These disadvantages increase potential risks to maritime safety and limit efforts to continuously improve safety standards within the industry. Hence, there is a clear need for innovative solutions to facilitate the testing of emergency beacons in the maritime sector.

Purpose of the Invention

The primary objective of this invention is to develop an innovative device and method that make the testing processes for emergency beacons used in the maritime sector, especially devices such as EPIRBs and AIS, more effective, efficient, and reliable. By addressing the time-consuming and complex nature of traditional testing methods, it aims to simplify and standardize testing processes. This would enable both large-scale maritime operations and small-scale operators to regularly and reliably test their emergency beacons.

Another aim of the invention is to minimize human error in testing operations, thereby increasing the consistency and accuracy of test results. This includes the integration of automation and advanced algorithms into testing processes, allowing for tests to be conducted with minimal human intervention. Consequently, this invention seeks to enhance maritime safety and ensure that emergency beacons operate at optimal performance levels continuously.

Another objective is to increase the transparency and reliability of testing processes. The invention features an innovative reporting unit that automatically documents the results of conducted tests and adds them to the document with a unique QR code. This method ensures that test results are stored in an unalterable and non-editable format, thus enhancing the accuracy and reliability of reported data. The unique QR code allows relevant parties to quickly and easily access test results while also preventing manipulation of this information. This feature supports the strict implementation of safety standards and regulations in the maritime sector and boosts confidence in testing processes.

Improving error detection and analysis capabilities is another aim of this invention. By utilizing deep learning techniques, the invention can more effectively identify and analyze errors that may arise during testing processes. Deep learning algorithms extract complex patterns and relationships from large datasets, allowing for the faster and more accurate detection of potential issues and anomalies in the performance of emergency beacons. This facilitates the rapid correction of errors in testing processes, ensures continuous operation of devices at optimal performance levels, and thereby enhances maritime safety. Deep learning-based error analysis also offers valuable insights for improving future testing processes and device designs, contributing to the ongoing evolution of technological innovations and safety practices in the maritime sector.

Another goal of the invention is to overcome the technological limitations of existing testing systems. The new device and method are designed to comprehensively test various frequencies and signal types, ensuring compliance with the latest safety standards and protocols in the maritime sector and guaranteeing reliable operation of devices under all maritime conditions and situations.

Additionally, the invention aims to increase the cost-effectiveness of testing processes. Simplified and automated testing processes can significantly reduce costs related to testing equipment and labor. This encourages the widespread implementation of safety practices in the maritime sector and makes the maintenance and testing of emergency beacons more accessible, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises with limited financial resources.

Another objective is to provide a flexible structure that allows for continuous improvement of testing processes. The device and method can be easily updated through software updates and algorithmic enhancements, ensuring compatibility with advancements in maritime safety technologies. This enables the invention to evolve over time alongside innovations in the industry, offering value beyond existing maritime safety standards.

Lastly, the invention aims to strengthen the safety culture within the maritime sector. More effective and reliable testing processes increase the confidence of ship operators and crews in emergency beacons. This fosters a general awareness and commitment to maritime safety, ensuring rapid and effective responses during emergencies.

To achieve the above objectives, the invention is a system for testing the performance of emergency beacons used in the maritime sector, such as EPIRBs and AIS devices, characterized by; At least one user device, At least one user interface (210) operating on said user device, which allows users to set test parameters, activate the test process, and view test results, thereby enabling the examination of outcomes obtained, An rf antenna designed to collect rf signals for testing the reliability and performance of emergency beacons such as epirb and ais, which performs the demodulation of rf signals transmitted at frequencies of 406 mhz and 121.5 mhz, measures frequency and power levels, assesses the positive/negative phase deviations of modulated signals, and enhances system performance continuously with machine learning algorithms by analyzing data obtained during the test process, also facilitating error detection, an rf receiver that converts these signals into digital signals at the initial processing stage, a central processing unit that analyzes the processed digital signals to determine test results, a graphics processing unit that provides support for image processing and high- performance computations, a neural processing unit that runs machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms to optimize system performance, an image signal processor that improves the processing of received signals and enhances image quality, ram for fast data access during processing, a hard disk for storing test data and results, a power port to meet the energy needs, input/output ports that allow data exchange with various external devices, a wireless communication unit that offers remote access and wireless communication capabilities, indicators that visually display the system status and operational parameters, a wireless antenna that supports the device's wireless communication capabilities, at least one testing device that includes the above components, At least one reporting module that facilitates the reporting of results from tests conducted via the testing device, enhancing the transparency and reliability of the testing process by marking the report with a unique QR code during reporting, thus ensuring quick and easy access to test results for relevant parties and protecting the test results against manipulation.

Description of the Figures

Figure- 1 is a representative view of the device and system for testing emergency beacons used in the maritime sector, which is the subject of the invention.

Figure-2 is a block diagram detailing the internal components of the device for testing emergency beacons used in the maritime sector, which is the subject of the invention.

Figure-3 is a block diagram of the algorithm for the method of testing emergency beacons used in the maritime sector, which is the subject of the invention.

Description of Part References

100. Testing Device 112. Indicator

101. RF Antenna 113. Wireless Antenna

102. RF Receiver 114. Microphone

103. Central Processing Unit (CPU) 115. Ultrasonic Receiver

104. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) 200. User Equipment

105. Neural Processing Unit (NPU) 210. User Interface

106. Image Signal Processor (ISP) 300. EPIRB

107. Ram 400. Reporting Module 108. Hard Disk 500. AIS

109. Power Port 600. Beacon Device

110. Input/Output Port

111. Wireless Communication Unit

Description of Process Steps

1001. Initiation of the test via the web interface (210) through the user device (200).

1002. The testing device (100) starts scanning rf signals related to epirbs (300) through the rf antenna (101) and rf receiver (102).

1003. Execution of the test algorithm on the central processing unit (103).

1004. Completion of the test algorithm conducted in the testing device (100).

1005. Sharing of test results with the user through the user interface (210) via the user device (200).

1006. Transmission of rf signals detected by the rf antenna (101) and rf receiver (102) to the central processing unit (103).

1007. Power control and processing of transmitted signals by the central processing unit (103).

1008. Processing of test results through the reporting module (400) to generate a report and add a QR code.

1009. Recording of operations and results conducted during the test onto the hard disk (108).

1010. Analysis of data collected during the test process by the neural processing unit (105) and application of machine learning algorithms for performance optimization.

1011. Processing of rf signals and rf calculations by the image signal processor (106).

1012. Resampling of rf signals and processing by the central processing unit (103).

1013. Adjustment of signals received by the rf receiver (102) according to the channel center frequency.

1014. Calculation of frequency error by the image signal processor (106).

1015. Calculation of the power spectrum by the neural processing unit (105).

1016. Resampling of rf signals by the graphics processing unit (104).

1017. Processing of rf signals after filtering by the graphics processing unit (104).

1018. Fm demodulation of modulated signals by the central processing unit (103), converting the frequency modulation of the received signals into sound waves or other data formats. 1019. Control and processing of unmodulated carriers by the central processing unit (103).

1020. Rechecking of signal processing and recording of errors onto the hard disk (108).

1021. Conducting modulation calculations by the image signal processor (106).

1022. Demodulation of the bit-stream and analysis by the central processing unit (103).

1023. Reconstruction of the original message using the data from the demodulated signals by the central processing unit (103).

1024. Verification of the total data sent by the central processing unit (103).

1025. Retrieval and conversion of the information contained in the signal by the Central Processing Unit (103).

Detailed Description of the Invention

This testing device (100) and system are designed for testing emergency beacons used in the maritime sector, particularly epirbs (300) and ais devices (500). the device is developed to perform functions such as decoding and demodulating 406 mhz and 121.5 mhz signals, measuring frequency and power levels, and evaluating the phase deviation of the modulated signal, thereby testing the reliability and functionality of epirbs (300) and ais (500) devices.

The system comprises a user interface (210) that initiates the test process and displays results through the user device (200), a rf antenna (101) and rf receiver (102) module that receives and processes rf signals, and a central processing unit (103) that processes signals and analyzes test results, additionally, the system includes a graphics processing unit (104) and a neural processing unit (105), as well as an image signal processor (106), memory units such as ram (107) and a hard disk (108), a power source (109), input/output ports (110), a wireless communication unit (111), indicators (112), and a wireless antenna (113).

The user device (200) serves as the control center for the testing process. Users can set test parameters, activate the test, and review the results via the user device (200). The user interface (210) is the platform where users interact with the testing device (100), configure test settings, and view results, offering ease of use and making the testing processes more comprehensible and accessible. The rf antenna (101) is responsible for collecting rf signals emitted by maritime emergency beacons, such as epirbs (300). Signals from the epirb (300) devices are received by the rf antenna (101) and processed as the initial step in the system. The rf receiver (102) processes the rf signals received from the rf antenna (101) and converts them into digital signals. This conversion ensures that the signals are in the appropriate format for further analysis and can be processed by the central processing unit (103). The central processing unit (103) conducts a detailed analysis of the digital signals and determines the results of the test. The evaluation of the overall performance of the testing device (100) and the reporting of results are carried out by the central processing unit (103). The image processing unit (104) supports the central processing unit (103) in image processing and high- performance computing tasks, playing a crucial role in the processing and analysis of complex data sets. The neural processing unit (105) is responsible for implementing machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms, executing processes such as system performance optimization and potential error analysis. The image signal processor (isp) (106) enhances the quality and processability of received signals, significantly improving the accuracy and reliability of test results. Memory units, ram (107) and the hard disk (108), store data processed by the system and the results of the tests. Ram (107) is used for situations requiring quick access, while the hard disk (108) is preferred for more permanent data storage needs. The power supply (109) provides the necessary energy for the testing device (100) and its components to function smoothly. It preferably has a usb-c input, ensuring the system operates steadily and uninterrupted. Input/output ports (110) allow the testing device (100) to exchange data with other devices, making the system expandable and adaptable to various test scenarios. The wireless communication unit (111) enables the testing device (100) to communicate with wireless networks and offers remote access and control capabilities, enhancing the flexibility and ease of use of the testing device (100). Indicators (112) provide visual information to users about the system status and various alerts, allowing users to easily monitor the current operational state of the testing device (100). These indicators (112) are preferably LEDs. The wireless antenna (113) ensures effective communication between the wireless communication unit (111) and wireless networks and other devices, forming the foundation of the system's wireless communication capabilities.

The testing device (100) also utilizes a microphone (114) to detect audio signals and alerts from ais devices (500). This feature is integrated to test the accuracy and functionality of the audio outputs of ais (500) devices. The audio signals detected through the microphone (114) are thoroughly analyzed by the central processing unit (cpu) (103). As a result of this analysis process, the audio communication capabilities and the accuracy and effectiveness of the audio alerts and alarm functions of the ais (500) device are evaluated. The analyses conducted by the central processing unit (cpu) (103) are essential to verify the compliance and reliability of the critical functions of the ais (500) device with standards.

The reporting module (400) plays a critical role in the final stage of the testing process. This module processes the test results and generates a detailed report. A significant part of the reporting process is the marking of all test results with a unique QR code. This process ensures that the results are easily shareable and accessible in both digital and physical formats.

The QR code marking process enhances the integrity and reliability of the test results. The QR code generated for each test contains important information such as the timestamp of the test, the identity of the testing device (100), test parameters, and results. This QR marking allows relevant parties, such as ship owners, maintenance teams, or regulatory bodies, to quickly verify the results.

The QR code marked by the reporting module (400) is added to the digital copies of the test reports and can be printed on physical documents if needed. This approach ensures protection against falsification of the test results and guarantees that the reports serve as an unalterable source of accuracy. Moreover, through the QR code, the results can be easily scanned and reviewed using smartphones or other user devices (200). This significantly simplifies and accelerates audit processes and quality control procedures.

The testing device (100) also includes an advanced ultrasonic receiver (115) for comprehensive testing of maritime safety equipment. The ultrasonic receiver (115) is capable of detecting ultrasonic signals between 25khz and 50khz emitted by beacon devices (600). This feature is critically important for verifying the effectiveness and reliability of emergency signal transmission by beacon devices (600). Thanks to the ultrasonic receiver (115), the testing device (100) can precisely detect and analyze signals in this specific frequency range, assessing the performance of beacon devices (600), thereby contributing to the enhancement of safety standards and operational efficiency in the maritime sector. In summary, the mentioned testing device (100) ensures reliable and effective testing of emergency beacons used in the maritime sector. Through automation and advanced analysis methods, the testing processes become faster, more consistent, and reliable, while the integration of machine learning and performance optimization algorithms allows for the continuous development of the testing device (100) and method. This represents an innovative solution that enhances maritime safety, facilitates regulatory compliance, and contributes to the ongoing maintenance of safety standards in the maritime industry. The visuals and system diagrams presented in the figures illustrate the representative configurations and operational principles of the testing device (100) and system subject to this invention. Figure-1 provides a general view of the system, while figure-2 details the internal components of the testing device (100), and figure-3 outlines the algorithm of the testing method. These visuals offer valuable resources for a better understanding of the practical applications and technical details of the testing device (100) and method.

Descriptions and explanations of the process steps related to the method of the invention are available in the section describing the process steps of the specification.

Claims

1. The invention is a system for testing the performance of emergency beacons used in the maritime sector, such as EPIRBs (300) and AIS devices (500), characterized by;

• At least one user device (200),

• At least one user interface (210) operating on said user device (200), which allows users to set test parameters, activate the test process, and view test results, thereby enabling the examination of outcomes obtained,

• An rf antenna (101) designed to collect rf signals for testing the reliability and performance of emergency beacons such as epirb (300) and ais (500), which performs the demodulation of rf signals transmitted at frequencies of 406 mhz and 121.5 mhz, measures frequency and power levels, assesses the positive/negative phase deviations of modulated signals, and enhances system performance continuously with machine learning algorithms by analyzing data obtained during the test process, also facilitating error detection, an rf receiver (102) that converts these signals into digital signals at the initial processing stage, a central processing unit (103) that analyzes the processed digital signals to determine test results, a graphics processing unit (104) that provides support for image processing and high-performance computations, a neural processing unit (105) that runs machine learning and artificial intelligence algorithms to optimize system performance, an image signal processor (106) that improves the processing of received signals and enhances image quality, ram (107) for fast data access during processing, a hard disk (108) for storing test data and results, a power port (109) to meet the energy needs, input/output ports (110) that allow data exchange with various external devices, a wireless communication unit (111) that offers remote access and wireless communication capabilities, indicators (112) that visually display the system status and operational parameters, a wireless antenna (113) that supports the device's wireless communication capabilities, at least one testing device (100) that includes the above components, • At least one reporting module (400) that facilitates the reporting of results from tests conducted via the testing device (100), enhancing the transparency and reliability of the testing process by marking the report with a unique QR code during reporting, thus ensuring quick and easy access to test results for relevant parties and protecting the test results against manipulation.

2. A system according to claim 1 , characterized in that it includes at least one microphone (114) within the testing device (100) for the purpose of detecting, analyzing, and testing the accuracy of audible signals and alerts from AIS devices (500).

3. A system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the indicators (112) mentioned in the testing device (100) are LEDs.

4. A system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the power port (109) mentioned in the testing device (100) is of the LISB-C type.

5. A system according to claim 1 , characterized in that the testing device (100) includes at least one ultrasonic receiver (115) specifically for detecting, analyzing, and verifying the accuracy of ultrasonic signals in the frequency range of 25kHz to 50kHz, emanating particularly from beacon devices (600).

6. The invention is a method for testing the performance of emergency beacons used in the maritime sector, such as EPIRBs (300) and AIS devices (500), characterized by;

• initiation of the test via the web interface (210) through the user device (200) (1001),

• the testing device (100) starts scanning rf signals related to epirbs (300) through the rf antenna (101) and rf receiver (102) (1002),

• execution of the test algorithm on the central processing unit (103) (1003),

• completion of the test algorithm conducted in the testing device (100) (1004),

• sharing of test results with the user through the user interface (210) via the user device (200) (1005), • transmission of rf signals detected by the rf antenna (101) and rf receiver

(102) to the central processing unit (103) (1006),

• power control and processing of transmitted signals by the central processing unit (103) (1007),

• processing of test results through the reporting module (400) to generate a report and add a QR code (1008),

• recording of operations and results conducted during the test onto the hard disk (108) (1009),

• analysis of data collected during the test process by the neural processing unit (105) and application of machine learning algorithms for performance optimization (1010),

• processing of rf signals and rf calculations by the image signal processor (106) (1011),

• resampling of rf signals and processing by the central processing unit (103) (1012),

• adjustment of signals received by the rf receiver (102) according to the channel center frequency (1013),

• calculation of frequency error by the image signal processor (106) (1014),

• calculation of the power spectrum by the neural processing unit (105) (1015),

• resampling of rf signals by the graphics processing unit (104) (1016),

• processing of rf signals after filtering by the graphics processing unit (104) (1017),

• FM demodulation of modulated signals by the central processing unit (103), converting the frequency modulation of the received signals into sound waves or other data formats (1018),

• control and processing of unmodulated carriers by the central processing unit

(103) (1019),

• rechecking of signal processing and recording of errors onto the hard disk (108) (1020),

• conducting modulation calculations by the image signal processor (106) (1021),

• demodulation of the bit-stream and analysis by the central processing unit (103) (1022),

• reconstruction of the original message using the data from the demodulated signals by the central processing unit (103) (1023), • Verification of the total data sent by the central processing unit (103) (1024),

• Retrieval and conversion of the information contained in the signal by the Central Processing Unit (103) (1025).