When you download detailed depth data encoded in accordance with the new S-102 standard, it has undergone an extensive process before you can utilize the information for navigation planning or developing new solutions. Let’s explore the entire process from data collection and quality control to distribution and operational use.
S-102 bathymetric data is part of the S-100 framework. The aim of this new framework is to integrate all types of information relevant for safer and more efficient navigation and planning into one system. The potential applications are vast, including interactions between detailed depth data, real-time tide information, and current data. Although these solutions are not fully in place yet, numerous stakeholders are diligently working towards this goal and make their S-100 data available.
One of the current focus areas is the production of high-resolution bathymetric data according to the new S-102 standard. This means being able to see very detailed depth data and for example perform highly flexible safety contour calculations based on the gridded bathymetry data, whereas existing depth data in the legacy format s-57 typically offers only a few predefined contours.
Traditional ENCs provide global coverage, whereas S-102 data probably will be provided in complex and shallow areas and ports. S-102 data can be integrated and interoperate with S-101 ENC data.
The interest in high-resolution bathymetry is significant. This was particularly evident in the S-102 Demonstrator Project, where we experimented with displaying real-time data in a 3D desktop to address challenging navigation problems. Professional users such as pilot services, and stakeholders developing solutions for safe and efficient navigation and planning are all eager for accessing such data.
S-102 Depth data for charted areas is available in PRIMAR's chart portal. These datasets are produced in the HDF format and distributed securely to the end user. These are all activities involving substantial collaboration among various parties. Let us look at the details.
The first step is to measure the seabed depth using advanced multibeam echosounders on survey vessels. In some countries, this task is assigned to the Coastal Authority, while in others, the military is responsible for surveying. It is also not uncommon for this to be outsourced to commercial entities.
Early versions of echosounders emitted a single beam in what’s known as a ping along a planned survey line, while today's technology performs several hundred depth measurements in one ping and continuously. This provides much greater coverage, increases efficiency and enables detection of individual safety features.
Depth measurements are also conducted using lasers from planes, helicopters, and drones. The advantage is that they cover larger areas in less time, and they are supplemented with multibeam surveys since lasers are limited in depth range.
Read also: S-100 - The Digitalization of Safety, Efficiency, and Sustainability at Sea
Collected raw data must be processed to ensure the correct quality. In Norway, this work is advanced, led by the Norwegian Hydrographic Service.
Raw data is transferred from the survey vessel to the hydrographic service, where it is processed by removing noise and correcting for tidal information. The actual depth varies with the tide, and bathymetric data is calculated from the sea chart zero (the lowest normal water level at low tide).
The next step is to produce S-102 data by gridding the point cloud. The collected points must be converted into a grid, with one point representing each grid cell. Grid sizes are defined in accordance with national policies. Gridding can be done using various algorithms. The Norwegian Hydrographic Service uses the shallowest value for navigation purposes, while other terrain models may use average values of water level.
Once the data is processed and verified by the provider, they are uploaded to PRIMAR for automatic validation and quality assurance according to the IHO’s S-102 standard and made ready for further distribution via the PRIMAR service. The S-102 datasets are delivered as an exchange set, which can include many S-102 dataset files along with a CATALOG file, an inventory listing all the delivered files and their metadata information.
PRIMAR's system checks that the listed files in the CATALOG file are delivered. Additionally, ECC has developed proprietary checks performed during data upload, ensuring:
Visual checks are also conducted by viewing the S-102 dataset alongside the electronic navigational chart (ENC) from the same area. ECC on behalf of PRIMAR is working to incorporate more automated checks when importing S-102 data into its database.
These automated checks aim to detect errors when data is uploaded to PRIMAR's database, allowing for corrections before the data is made available to customers. Users should be confident that the data can be loaded into their chart systems and displayed accurately.
Once the data have passed quality control at PRIMAR, the producing nation can release them, making them available for download for navigational planning and other purposes.
All data distributed by PRIMAR applies data protection compliant with IHO standards. It includes digital signatures and encryption and requires a license key for access on end-user system. PRIMAR license keys are distributed online. The ECC and PRIMAR protection scheme has become the standard used by IHO and all hydrographic offices for securing their products.
The principle of distribution is similar to traditional ENC S-57 data, but the protection and security keys are stronger, reducing the risk of unauthorized access, alteration of critical data and increases cyber security during transit. It also verifies the data's origin and process, confirming the Norwegian Hydrographic Service as the producer and PRIMAR as the distributor.
More to read: All about S-101 ENC
The production of S-102 bathymetric data is facing significant development. Currently, PRIMAR holds traditional ENC chart data for 70 countries, while S-102 coverage is limited to Canada and Norway. In PRIMAR, reception of various test data indicates that more countries will rapidly deliver S-102 in the near future.
Several processes are underway to certify the new standard for use on ECDIS, enhancing safer and more efficient navigation. This will promote wider adoption and usage. It is crucial for stakeholders to test and innovate on the available data packages, increasing knowledge and opening technological and commercial opportunities.