About
In a step towards enhancing communication for those serving on navy ships, we are diving in the world of Low Earth Orbit (LEO)-communication. Our mission? To test the capabilities of LEO technology in bringing the sailors closer to their families and friends at home.
In this Physical Sandbox we wanted to test the effect of social communication on the wellbeing of the staff. To do this, we installed a LEO antenna for a period of 10 weeks and had 3 moments to check in with the staff on the ship via a survey.
The experiment set-up
The first step is choosing the LEO satellite that will be used. In this case we worked with the Starlink antenna. To ensure optimal functionality, the antenna’s guidelines mandate a 100° field-of-view of the sky. Achieving this on a vessel equipped with multiple other antennas presents a challenge, requiring careful consideration of trade-offs. So we performed a location analysis to determine which location would work best.
To guarantee a seamless installation of the antenna on the ship, we designed and built an adaptive mount. With this adaptive mount, we achieved optimal flexibility, allowing us to easily adjust the angle of the antenna for successful installation on the ship’s mast.
Next we conducted a connectivity and a coverage analysis. For the connectivity test, we aimed to evaluate the maximum data throughput and latency by linking the system to the office network and having approximately 15 people actively use the communication system. The test proved successful as no one experienced any noticeable decline in connectivity. Additionally, we conducted a coverage analysis to ensure that the system’s satellites provided sufficient coverage for reliable onboard connectivity.
After finishing these tests, the installation of the LEO system took place in the second week of September.
The survey assessment
The research question: “What is the effect of social communication on the wellbeing of our staff?”
The hypothesis: “With increased connectivity options, it is hypothesized that staff wellbeing will improve, attributed to enhanced social communication opportunities.”
To measure the impact of the LEO system, three surveys were dispatched: a Baseline Survey conducted before the LEO antenna was installed, and two identical Evaluation Surveys. Each Survey was open for a period of +/- 5 days. The surveys were send out in Dutch and French to accommodate all the staff members.
We examined the survey data both quantitatively and qualitatively. At first, our satisfaction with connectivity was below our usual level due to technical problems with the LEO antenna, leading to connectivity issues during the first testing phase. These challenges caused frustration and made communication less effective for the staff. Fortunately, once these technical issues were resolved, satisfaction levels significantly improved in the second testing phase, resulting in a more positive experience overall.
“We appreciate the efforts to find ways to improve our communication at sea. It truly lifts our spirits and makes a positive difference for the crew.”
-The crew
Key learnings
We identified 4 key takeaways while completing this Physical Sandbox.
1. Increased crew satisfaction: We observed that having access to better connectivity resulted in uplifted spirits without significant drawbacks. Emphasizing how important it is for them to stay in touch with their families back home.
2. Main goal is to stay connected: The primary objective for the staff to communicate with the home front is to ensure they stay well-informed and connected while away at sea.
3. Wider Impact: The improved connectivity doesn’t only benefit the social interactions and the wellbeing of the staff, but also result in improved productivity for work-related tasks.
4. Advantages in Remote Environments: The biggest improvement is to be able to connect to the internet in remote locations (like the middle of the sea) or in areas where 4G connection is very expensive due to roaming costs.
Stay up to date!
Receive our newsletter and keep up to date with our challenges,
programmes, events and running cases.
