Original scientific paper
https://doi.org/10.31217/p.39.1.11
Design of a Conceptual Underwater Wireless Communication System Integrating Electromagnetic and Optical Technologies
Damir Brdar
orcid.org/0009-0003-6205-3079
; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Rijeka, Croatia; 1st-Relief GmbH, Graz, Austria
Nikola Lopac
orcid.org/0000-0002-0616-1265
; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Rijeka, Croatia
*
Andreas Lesch
; 1st-Relief GmbH, Graz, Austria
Irena Jurdana
orcid.org/0000-0002-3287-1383
; University of Rijeka, Faculty of Maritime Studies, Rijeka, Croatia
* Corresponding author.
Abstract
Underwater wireless communication is pivotal for advancing maritime technology, supporting applications such as underwater exploration, autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), diver communication, search-and-rescue operations, and military systems. Traditional acoustic communication systems, while effective over long distances, are constrained by low bandwidth and high latency, limiting their suitability for data-intensive operations. Electromagnetic (EM) and optical communication technologies offer promising alternatives, providing higher data rates, greater bandwidth, and lower latency, but face challenges such as signal attenuation, scattering, and environmental interference. To address these challenges, this paper explores the potential of an integrated wireless communication and navigation system combining EM and optical technologies. Initial experimental measurements of EM wave propagation in freshwater provided valuable insights into signal attenuation and frequency-dependent performance, demonstrating the feasibility of overcoming attenuation in such environments. Building on these observations, this paper proposes a conceptual system comprising three interconnected segments: a space segment utilizing the Galileo High Accuracy Service (HAS) for precise GNSS signals, a waterline segment processing and transmitting GNSS-like signals, and an underwater segment facilitating navigationand communication for divers and AUVs. Preliminary findings highlight the potential of combining EM and optical technologies for reliable, near real-time underwater wireless communication. Future work will focus on extending functionality, validating the system in saltwater environments, and refining the design for practical deployment.
Keywords
Underwater wireless communication; electromagnetic communication; optical communication; underwater navigation; underwater transceiver and antenna design
Hrčak ID:
330917
URI
Publication date:
19.5.2025.
Visits: 704 *