Overview

The AIS parameter group configures the Marine AIS subsystem. This is the nautical equivalent of ADS-B. It allows ArduRover (Boat) to detect nearby commercial vessels equipped with AIS transmitters.

Key Concepts

1. Collision Avoidance

AIS data is fed into the AVOID library. If a vessel is detected on a collision course, the autopilot can warn the operator or autonomously steer away (if avoidance is configured).

2. Hardware

Typically requires a serial AIS receiver connected to a UART port.

Parameter Breakdown

• AIS_TYPE: 0=Disabled, 1=NMEA (Standard Serial AIS).
• AIS_TIME_OUT: Time (seconds) without a signal before a vessel is considered lost/gone.
• AIS_LIST_MAX: Maximum number of vessels to track in memory.

Integration Guide

1. Hardware: Connect NMEA 0183 AIS Receiver to a Serial Port.
2. Serial Config: Set SERIALx_PROTOCOL = 40 (AIS). Baud rate usually 38400.
3. Enable: Set AIS_TYPE = 1.

Developer Notes

• Library: libraries/AP_AIS
• Vehicle: ArduRover (Boats).