Master thesis (f/m/x): SDR based solution for direction estimation of AIS signals

Master thesis (f/m/x): SDR based solution for direction estimation of AIS signals

Join to apply for the Master thesis (f/m/x): SDR based solution for direction estimation of AIS signals role at German Aerospace Center (DLR)

The DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation is dedicated to mission-oriented research in selected areas of communications and navigation. Its work ranges from the theoretical foundations to the demonstration of new processes and systems in a real environment and is embedded in DLR's Space, Aeronautics, Transport, Security, and Digitalization programs. The Nautical Systems department of the DLR Institute of Communications and Navigation develops and tests new procedures and technologies for shore-based and on-board support in ship navigation, among other things.

What To Expect

The Traffic Systems (VLS) working group focuses on the fusion and evaluation of data on moving maritime objects from various sensors and sources.

Your main focus will be on developing an automatic estimation of the arrival angle of AIS (Automatic Identification System) signals using a low-cost KrakenSDR (Software Defined Radio). In a second step, the estimates from several stations can be combined to triangulate ships on the open sea.

Your tasks

• Set up and operate a KrakenSDR with a 5-element antenna array
• Implement or adapt existing software to decode AIS messages using GNU Radio
• Apply array signal processing methods, in particular the MUSIC algorithm, to estimate the direction of arrival (DOA) of AIS transmissions
• Calibrate the antenna array and validate results with reference scenarios
• Document the findings and results
• Optional: Triangulation of vessels by fusing multiple stations

Your profile

• Completed bachelor’s degree in physics, mathematics, electrical engineering, communications engineering or other courses relevant to the position
• Basic knowledge of signal processing
• Programming experience in GNU Radio and Python
• Interest in Software Defined Radio and antennas
• Independent and structured working style
• Ability to work in a team
• Knowledge of German and good written and spoken English

We look forward to getting to know you!

If you have any questions about this position (Vacancy-ID 2999) please contact:

Dr. Nis Meinert

Tel.: