Feature 2 | BRIDGE & COMMUNICATIONS


with than satellite communications because it sees other users of the system and interference in the same way: external entities to the end to end link. Linden claims: “Not even a governmental organisation [is] ready to block it at the moment.” But admittedly adds that anything is possible in a cyberattack with enough time and resources. Part of the system’s robustness comes from its ability to detect jamming or indifference and automatically change data parameters to continue transmitting. It also rapidly synchronises at random points of the radio spectrum without repeating these points, increasing the difficulty for would-be jammers. Te company says: “Adding security


on operations is a value itself. With the CNHF system there’s finally an alternative communication system to operate in parallel with easy to jam Satcom.” KNL Networks is currently involved in talks with larger organisations and companies interested in Smart Ships for which its system’s redundancy would be attractive.


Development Te company was formed in 2011 aſter spinning off from the University of Oulu. Its system design was so “out there” that they needed a prototype, which, following its success in testing, was commercialised and is currently being scaled-up to be launched later this year. Linden says that the company realised during the R&D stage that services and a


KNL Networks’ Cognitive Networked HF-radio provides a complete infrastructure independent, MESH-radio network


network were needed, so they expanded from their development of the cognitive radio technology. Linden stresses that the service


is already in operation for selected customers and that the company currently has the capability to add hundreds of new ships to the network. The new service may be particularly attractive for ship owners wishing to improve communications with their ships, as this could lower their insurance costs. However, KNL Networks are also in the process of approaching equipment companies; the constant real-time passing of monitory data could be a revelation, proffering valuable information, for example, in the case of preventive maintenance strategies. Linden also


suggests that the service could be offered by equipment providers themselves, stating that leſtover bandwidth from the transmission of equipment performance information could be offered to the vessel for ship communications. The company’s promise, “Keeping


you online. Always”, is appreciative of the maritime industry’s heading and its need for the constant flow of information. This paradigm shift will require innovative technologies like the CNHF-radio to facilitate the future, and, with the keeping of this promise, the CNHF-radio has the potential to solve present connectivity problems and facilitate what is to come for the maritime industry: Big Data, smart shipping and Smart Ships. NA


The red area represents


coverage from a transmitter in Svalbard


28


The Naval Architect March 2016


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