Predictive Analytics Integrated Multi-level Optimization of Offshore Connectivity in Ocean Network

One of the primary difficulties of fishermen engaged in deep-sea fishing is the lack of effective communication systems to the shore. The Offshore Communication Network(OCN) resolves this problem by providing Internet over the ocean through a fishing vessel network. OCN is a multi-layered architecture with heterogeneous connectivity ranges, directionality, resources, and mobility patterns. Connectivity maintenance is challenging due to the lack of infrastructure, expanded mobility, network sparsity, and sea-wave-induced movements. This paper discusses a framework to improve OCN connectivity with a multi-level optimization strategy. We propose a predictive model to generate real-time forecasts of link status. At the physical level, node position re-orientations to higher connectivity locations are suggested. The transmission queue management and prioritized scheduling in the link-layer minimize the queuing delay. A reinforcement routing strategy in the network layer determines the best next-hop for message dissemination. The proposed three-level optimization approach facilitates communication capability enhancement in OCN.