Due to massive advances in communication technology, underwater communication systems have now been developed and are becoming increasingly widespread.
So, what does this mean for you and the industry you operate within?
Discover the many benefits of underwater communication systems below. Discover who is leading the way in this revolutionary technology and what the future holds for this innovative sector.
1. Enhanced security
Underwater communication systems are highly secure, so the military often uses them to conduct underwater surveillance. With the ability to alert the nation of any danger detected in the water, this technology is highly effective at detecting intrusion.
It is also used to stop drug traffickers from transporting illegal substances from one country to another, and other illegal movements.
2. More economical
Industries such as oil and gas are using underwater communications systems for commercial purposes due to the ocean’s vast number of natural resources. More specifically, AUVs are being used to make maps of the seafloor before operations so that companies can set up pipelines quicker and with fewer problems.
3. Increased data collection
For those who work in the field of science, these systems can be used for exploration and data collection. Marine biologists and oceanologists have already used underwater communication systems to make new discoveries underwater, and there is potential for them to be used in the healthcare industry.
4. Better for the environment
Underwater communication systems can help government agencies monitor the environment, especially regarding the activities of oil, gas, and manufacturing industries.
For example, they can be used to monitor environmental pollution and stop any projects that are causing damage to the ocean and its inhabitants. Also, they can be used to detect climate change and for early detection of natural disasters.
5. Opportunity for search and survey
In terms of search and survey, underwater communication systems have proven to be highly effective, with autonomous underwater vehicles being deployed to find aircrafts that have crashed and to carry out investigations.
These systems have already been used to great effect to discover remains from the Titanic, helping to detect objects and aid mapping.
The future of underwater communication systems
All of the above are just the beginning for underwater communication systems, with so many more exciting possibilities on the horizon. With research ongoing and funding at an all-time high, you can expect to see the below innovations emerging in the next few years:
- Underwater Internet of Things (loT)
The integration of underwater communication systems and the Internet of Things opens up multiple possibilities, such as real-time monitoring, remote sensing, and autonomous control.
- Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Machine learning and artificial intelligence techniques can be used to facilitate underwater communication systems, enabling them to adapt based on data collected from various underwater environments.
- Biological Communication Inspiration
Marine life, such as dolphins and whales, have already shown us how they efficiently communicate underwater, and by studying their biological systems, scientists will be able to create new underwater communication technologies.
