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Vessel Traffic Services And Port Database

The Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS) 5060 is an open architecture system developed by Norcontrol IT AS to fulfill the needs of a wide range of users. The design employs a variety of hardware and software modules that collect, integrate, assess and display sensor data in a manner that provides a comprehensive representation of the vessel traffic situation to VTS Operators. Whether the requirement is for surveillance of coastal areas, large ports, small ports, rivers or offshore installations a VTMIS5060 can be supplied to meet that need. Each VTMIS5060 is configured to suit the customer's specific needs that in most cases are fulfilled with standard off-the-shelf VTMIS5060 modules, however Norcontrol IT AS take pride in our ability to develop Customer specific solutions wherever required.

Purpose

The purpose of a VTMIS is to provide the operator with a clear and concise real-time portrayal of vessel movements and interactions in the Vessel Traffic Service (VTS) Area. The information provided by the VTMIS must allow the operator to:

  • Provide the required level of VTS: Information, Assistance or Organization

  • Enhance safety of life and property

  • Protect the environment

  • Reduce the risk associated with marine operations

  • Enhance efficiency of vessel movements and port marine resources

  • Distribute VTS related information

  • Provide Search and Rescue assistance

  • Record VTS data for administrative purposes, analysis of incidents and planning

VTMIS5060 fulfils this purpose by processing and presenting information in a manner which enables the operator to obtain a clear and accurate picture of the vessel traffic situation, quickly understand and assess situations, make appropriate decisions and take appropriate action where necessary.

Architecture

A VTMIS5060 typically consists of a VTS Operator Workstation(s) that is connected to Sensor Sites either via a Local Area Network (LAN) or a dedicated communication link. The open architecture allows maximum use of commercial off the shelf (COTS) components including standard Personal Computers for processing and display. Various development tools are utilized to build the software components including Microsoft Windows 2000/XP ?that are used as Operating Systems. Sensors and peripheral equipment are all selected from proven and reliable sources that when combined ensure low maintenance costs and long term availability of compatible components.

Communication

One of the strengths of the VTMIS5060 is its flexibility in connecting to remote sites. All data transfer uses standard TCP/IP protocol over a variety of cost-effective communication links including: Telephone line, ISDN line, Fiber-optic cable, Spread spectrum radio, Microwave link or Satellite link.

Availability and Reliability

All VTMIS5060 systems are configured to provide an availability of at least 99.9% as recommended by IALA. The required level of availability is provided by a combination of redundancy that is built-in into each VTMIS module and that provided where necessary by duplicate modules. Duplicate modules are configured as "hot" stand-by so no loss of information occurs during a changeover. Duplication of critical modules such as the Warning and Integration Server, Video Extractor and Tracker, radar transceivers and LAN should be carefully considered. Where multiple VTS Operator Workstations are configured, any failure of one console will not affect any of the others.

Expandability

Due to the VTMIS5060 open architecture and modular design, future expansion is easily accommodated whether it involves the addition of sensors, relocation of existing modules or additional functionality.

System Design

Norcontrol IT is independent of all 3rd Party suppliers including radar, AIS and computer manufacturers. We provide independent advice and ensure that each VTMIS5060 is designed to meet the precise requirements. Typically this would include an evaluation of:

  • Marine Operations requirement

  • Locations including a Site Survey

  • Existing infrastructure

  • Future Plans



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