Exploring Pervasive Computing Models to Improve Crew Connectivity and Safety in Global Shipping Routes
M.A. BrunoDepartment of Marine Engineering, AMET Institute of Science and Technology, Chengalpet, Tamil Nadu, India. viceprincipal@amet-ist.in0009-0003-0627-984X
V. AyyappanDepartment of Marine Engineering, AMET University, Kanathur, Tamil Nadu, India. darshtvr@ametuniv.ac.in0009-0008-3355-2756
The maritime industry is crucial to international trade, it still struggles with crew safety and connectivity, particularly on remote or dangerous shipping routes. This paper discusses the use of pervasive computing an approach to computing where devices are imbedded into the environment that surrounds the user, invisibly enhancing interaction with technology to improve communication and health monitoring aboard ships. Wearable health sensors, context-aware systems, IoT devices, and edge computing enable pervasively responsive computing infrastructure that supports real-time health communication and monitoring while responding to shifting conditions both on the vessel and the environment. The utmost remote regions with sparse satellite coverage are equipped with resilient connectivity, managed through advanced self-healing networks, which create an intelligent framework envisioned by this research. This responsive infrastructure facilitates on-time health alerting, permit anticipatory maintenance of the ship's systems, effective emergency management coordination. The paper goes on to tackle issues of data privacy and cybersecurity, proposing specific encryption and access control adaptations appropriate for the maritime environment. A simulated global shipping routing case study illustrates the potential of pervasive computing for minimizing communications blackouts, detecting early signs of crew fatigue, and improving rescue coordination. The results point to further increases in operational efficiency, safety compliance, and crew welfare. This research emphasizes the role of context-aware, ubiquitous computing in the evolution of maritime logistics.