For single-body multi-purpose unmanned boats (USVs) performing long-distance missions, the stability and reliability of their communication systems directly determine the mission's success rate. To address the challenges of signal attenuation, multipath interference, and long-distance transmission in complex marine environments, a comprehensive support system must be built, employing multi-mode communication architecture, anti-interference technology, intelligent protocol optimization, and redundancy design to ensure real-time data interaction and command transmission between the USV and the control center.
Satellite communication is the core means for USVs to achieve global coverage. By integrating low-Earth orbit (LEO) or geostationary orbit (GEO) satellite terminals, USVs can overcome geographical limitations and establish stable links in areas without terrestrial networks, such as the open ocean and polar regions. These systems typically employ rain-attenuation and anti-blockage designs, combined with adaptive power control technology to dynamically adjust transmission power to compensate for signal loss. For example, when strong winds and waves cause severe hull pitching, the satellite antenna can automatically track the signal source, maintaining link continuity and avoiding communication interruptions caused by attitude changes.
For near-shore or medium-distance missions, 4G/5G public networks and LTE private networks provide cost-effective solutions. The single-body multi-purpose unmanned boat, with its built-in multi-mode communication module, can automatically switch to the optimal network operator, prioritizing the high speed and low latency of 5G for transmitting high-definition video and radar data, while downgrading to 4G or LTE private networks in weak signal areas to ensure basic communication. Some systems also support network penetration technology, achieving secure interconnection between the internal and external networks through server relay, meeting the remote control needs in complex network environments.
Radio communication technology improves transmission distance through frequency band optimization and modulation innovation. High-power radio modules employ spread spectrum technology to distribute signal energy across a wider frequency band, enhancing anti-interference capabilities. Combined with high-gain directional antennas, stable communication over tens of kilometers can be achieved. Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) technology divides the channel into multiple orthogonal subcarriers, transmitting low-speed data streams in parallel, effectively combating multipath effects and frequency-selective fading, ensuring reliable transmission in complex electromagnetic environments.
To address the risk of single-mode communication failure, single-body multi-purpose unmanned boats generally employ multi-link redundancy designs. The system simultaneously operates satellite, 4G/5G, radio, and underwater acoustic communication modules. When the main link is interrupted, it automatically switches to a backup channel and monitors the link status in real time via a heartbeat mechanism. For example, when the unmanned surface vessel (USV) enters an underground tunnel or a signal blind spot, the system can quickly switch to underwater acoustic communication, utilizing the stable propagation characteristics of sound waves underwater to maintain basic command transmission and avoid mission interruption.
Intelligent protocol optimization technology further improves communication efficiency. Open-source protocols such as MAVLink solve compatibility issues between different systems through standardized data packet encapsulation and interpretation rules, supporting seamless integration between the USV and ground stations and other unmanned equipment. Its heartbeat mechanism can detect connectivity in real time, and combined with the lightweight characteristics of the UDP protocol, it reduces transmission latency while ensuring real-time performance, meeting the control requirements of high-speed dynamic scenarios.
Environmental adaptability design is a key support for long-distance communication. The communication equipment of the single-body multi-purpose unmanned boat uses waterproof and corrosion-resistant encapsulation, and the antenna uses low-loss materials and vibration-resistant structures to ensure long-term stable operation in harsh environments such as salt spray, high temperature, and high humidity. Some systems also integrate environmental perception modules, dynamically adjusting communication parameters based on weather conditions. For example, in heavy rain, they automatically increase transmission power or switch to lower frequency bands to compensate for the impact of rain attenuation on the signal.
Long-distance communication support for single-body multi-purpose unmanned boats requires the integration of multi-mode technologies such as satellite, public network, radio, and underwater acoustics. A layered protection system is constructed through anti-interference algorithms, intelligent protocols, and redundant design. This comprehensive approach not only improves communication coverage and stability but also endows the unmanned surface vessel with autonomous adaptability in complex environments, providing solid technical support for its diverse missions such as marine monitoring, anti-submarine warfare, and search and rescue.
