Vessel Tracking System Based LoRa SX1278

Abstract

This research presents a vessel tracking system that provides real-time coordinate and speed information. The idea behind the development of this system originated from Automatic Identification System (AIS) technology, which functions as a vessel monitoring system in maritime areas. The system aims to improve navigation safety, monitor vessel traffic, and maritime security. In Indonesia, AIS is regulated by the Ministry of Transportation. However, this technology has not yet been implemented in river waters. In addition, AIS is a complex and expensive system. In this research, geographic location detection information in the form of a vessel tracking system is obtained using the UBlox Neo-6M GPS module based on LoRa technology. The LoRa mechanism periodically sends location data and vessel speed from the node to the gateway. The data is then sent to the ThingSpeak server using the MQTT protocol. On the server, the data can be accessed for further analysis. The developed system shows that the research can be realized and the system functions properly through a series of experimental tests. While in the in situ test, the system displayed good performance on LoRa SF 7 configuration with a signal strength of -118 dBm within the communication range of 1000 meters. This result can be improved by considering the MAPL value of -138 dBm.