Prioritization of autonomous marine vehicle communication technologies using the VIKOR

Abstract

Reliable and efficient communication technologies are essential for the effective operation of autonomous marine vehicles (AMVs) in harsh and dynamic environments. This study evaluated five communication technology alternatives: Satellite, Radio Frequency (RF), Acoustic, Optical, and Hybrid Systems using the VIKOR method, a robust multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) technique. The evaluation was based on expert-derived assessments across five key criteria: transmission range, data transfer rate, reliability, environmental adaptability, and cost efficiency. The results revealed that Hybrid Systems achieved the lowest compromise index (Q = 0.28), indicating the most balanced and robust performance. Acoustic communication followed closely with a Q value of 0.36, demonstrating strong adaptability and reliability, especially in underwater applications. Satellite (Q = 0.44) and RF (Q = 0.49) technologies occupied intermediate ranks, showing potential in specific scenarios depending on coverage and range requirements. Optical communication, with a Q value of 0.61, consistently ranked last due to its high sensitivity to environmental conditions, such as turbidity, and its limited range. Sensitivity analysis conducted by varying the decision-making parameter $\upsilon$ from 0.3 to 0.7 confirmed the robustness of the results, with Hybrid Systems consistently maintaining the top position. These findings offer clear, data-driven guidance for stakeholders in selecting communication systems that ensure resilient and efficient AMV operations across various maritime missions.