Full mission simulation to investigate effects of autonomous shipping on the future role of the Licensed Deck Officer regarding unmanned/manned vessel interaction in open and restricted waters.

This research is relevant and timely as it will provide valuable insight of the impact that autonomous shipping will have on the mariner of the future. Drawing on our experiences as sailing Licensed Deck Officers, we desire to ensure that the human element of a ship's operator is embodied in the evolution of the autonomous shipping industry. Insights generated from this research will benefit involved stakeholders to better understand and prepare for changes in the maritime industry, including how this will affect human-machine interaction, their responsibilities, and the future of their training. Furthermore, we will gain insight in the effect of restricted waters and use of autopilot. The following qualitative methods will be used for this research: an in-depth literature review; and interviews of maritime experts, training facility instructors, and IMO employees currently tasked with STCW/COLREGs recommendations regarding autonomous shipping. An FMS simulation will also be conducted, where participants will be monitored and recorded live, controlling an 'own ship' approaching the port of Antwerp. FMS participants will be interviewed and will answer questionnaires. After developing a measurement strategy and data management plan, data such as vessel CPA/TCPA, course/speed changes, and participant reaction time and use of controls will be recorded, integrated, and processed to identify participants' thought process. New risks arising from interaction between manned/unmanned vessels within open and restricted waters will be identified, and strong recommendations to STCW training will be concluded. Results of this project will outline new tasks and responsibilities for shipboard and shoreside vessel crews of the future, and will provide insight and potential new risks regarding manned/unmanned vessel interaction. Furthermore, this research project completes one PhD and significantly contributes to a second PhD at the University of Antwerp and Antwerp Maritime Academy. A unique training course addressing the Licensed Deck Officer and autonomous shipping will be developed as one of the main deliverables, as well as the publication of three A1 publications. This research project will have significant contributions to maritime training facilities, to the development of the future OOW within the shipping industry, and to port authorities as our findings can impact the direct operation and training of operators of autonomous ships in the future.

Keywords:STCW, AUTONOMOUS SHIPPING

Disciplines:Motion planning and control

Project type:Collaboration project