GIS ideal for spatial analysis of AIS data


While the introduc- tion of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) provides a rich source of information about shipping


traffic at sea, Geo-


graphic Information Systems (GIS) help to analyse and visu- alise the information. Bringing the two together proves particularly useful for spatial planning.


Density of all ships with AIS on the North Sea (number per 1000km2


)


All merchant vessels over 300 gt must be equipped with AIS, which transmits infor- mation about the ship. Static information, such as name, IMO number, ship type, size, destination and draught, is transmitted eve- ry six minutes. Dynamic information such as position, speed and course is transmitted every two to 10 seconds. Dynamic AIS information, in particular, of- fers opportunities to gain insight into the spatial use of seas and waterways. Local traffic intensities and densities can, for example, be calculated very precisely. How- ever, AIS data also provides valuable insight into the behaviour of ships while entering a port, or passing ships and offshore objects. By linking the AIS data with ship databas- es, additional ship characteristics can also be used for various analyses, for example to calculate emissions. MARIN uses all of these sources of data for risk assessments, nauti- cal safety and emissions studies.


Johanna Saladas & Erwin van Iperen j.saladas@marin.nl


GIS brings efficiency However, with the growth of the available data, the task of


extracting and visualising the relevant in- formation becomes a time consuming and laborious task. MARIN has therefore begun to utilise GIS to perform these tasks in a more flexible and efficient way. GIS software is widely used to provide insight into trends, logistics, environmental impact and for various other complex fea- tures of the world. In its simplest form, GIS can be used to draw together large sets of data in order to form conclusions based on spatial analysis. Research has been under- taken to assess how far GIS could help de- termine the spatial and temporal character- istics of shipping incidents and behaviour.


As well as analysing traffic patterns, be- haviour and emissions, coupling GIS with AIS data can also help in the spatial planning stages of an offshore structure or renewable energy farm. Bringing the two together facilitates the interactive and objective anal- ysis of all objects, environmental features and traffic at sea, as well as natural elements such as wind, waves and current.


report 21


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