An evaluation of the use of low-cost accelerometers in assessing fishing vessel stability through period of heave motion

This paper assesses the use of low-cost accelerometers for fishing vessel stability. These sensors provide vessel operators with a novel, autonomous, low-cost method of implementing vessel stability theory. This research evaluates the ability of low-cost, easy-to-use platforms to accurately measure the period of vessels heave motions. This was done using a Derritron Shaker in combination with a signal generator to simulate heave motion at frequencies between 0.2 Hz and 1.0 Hz. The Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) was used to convert the measured time signal into the frequency domain. FFT analysis not only enables the detection of the peak period and frequency of heave motion, but also provides the heave response spectra. Results indicate that low-cost, readily available devices with inertial measurement units such as mobile phones and Raspberry Pis can be used to determine the period of heave motions. Their low-cost makes them suitable solutions for improving safety of fishing vessels.