A cost-effective and innovative Software-Defined Radio (SDR)-based solution for real-time monitoring and analysis of maritime communications.
This project involves the design and development of a Marine VHF Scanner leveraging GNU Radio, RTL-SDR hardware, and AIS-Catcher software. The scanner monitors VHF communication channels, dynamically detects signals, and tracks vessels in real time using AIS data. It aims to enhance maritime navigation, safety, and communication through an affordable and accessible solution.
Key features:
- Dynamic Frequency Scanning: Monitors VHF spectrum (88–108 MHz).
- Automatic Signal Detection: Stops scanning upon signal detection using threshold detection.
- AIS Integration: Tracks vessel locations and retrieves Automatic Identification System (AIS) details.
- Real-Time Visualization: Displays detected frequencies and vessel information.
- RTL-SDR Dongle (Version 3): Handles wide frequency reception.
- Telescopic Dipole Antenna: Provides robust and portable signal reception.
- GNU Radio: Open-source platform for signal processing.
- AIS-Catcher: Decodes AIS signals for vessel tracking.
- Custom Python Module: Automates scanning and threshold-based detection.
The system architecture consists of:
- Signal Processing: Utilizing Low Pass Filters, Rational Resamplers, and Wideband FM Receiver blocks in GNU Radio.
- AIS Decoding: Integrating AIS-Catcher for real-time vessel tracking.
- Python Module: Controlling scanning parameters and automating signal detection.
Block Diagram:
- Real-Time Vessel Tracking: Tracks vessel movements with AIS data.
- Distress Signal Detection: Quickly identifies and alerts authorities in emergencies.
- Wide Frequency Coverage: Operates within the VHF band (88–108 MHz).
- Cost-Effective Design: Built using affordable RTL-SDR hardware.
- Maritime Navigation and Safety: Enhances communication and reduces risks of collision.
- Search and Rescue Operations: Identifies distress signals for prompt response.
- Regulatory Compliance: Monitors communication for adherence to protocols.
- Successfully implemented the scanner with real-time frequency monitoring and AIS-based vessel tracking.
- Demonstrated efficiency in signal detection and data visualization within the VHF band.
- Machine Learning: Implement signal classification and anomaly detection.
- Expanded Frequency Coverage: Include additional radio bands and protocols.
- Advanced Visualization: Add spectrum waterfalls and enhanced graphical analysis.
- Connect the RTL-SDR dongle and antenna to your system.
- Clone this repository:
git clone https://github.com/Harshith292002/marine-vhf-scanner.git
- Install dependencies:
pip install -r requirements.txt
- Launch the GNU Radio flow graph:
gnuradio-companion vhf_scanner.grc
- Run the Python script for AIS decoding:
python ais_catcher.py
This project was developed as part of the B.Tech Capstone Project at SRM Institute of Science and Technology under the guidance of Dr. T. Deepa.
License: MIT