Advanced Regulations for Autonomous Vessels to Avoid Collisions

Abstract

 More than a thousand autonomous vessels are presently operational worldwide. However, appropriate guidelines to standardize the operation of autonomous vessels are currently lacking in the marine sector. The current COLREG is still appropriate for the operation of autonomous vessels, and no regulation changes are needed. However, to define the standard operating procedure of an autonomous vessel and prevent collisions, COLREG requires extra parts. Autonomous vessels can also follow the existing COLREEG regulations. Yet, they need certain extra elements because they rely heavily on technology and artificial intelligence to navigate while operating with fewer crew members. Thus, the goal of this study is to identify the topics that should be added as an additional part of COLREG for autonomous vessels and the most crucial topic to be proposed for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS) to be included as a separate part of COLREG for autonomous vessels. To accomplish this goal, this study aims to determine the topics that maritime experts believe should be included in COLREG for autonomous vessels and use the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to identify the most suitable topic to be suggested for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS). The findings of this study could be utilized by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to operate autonomous vessels in the future. They could also serve as a wake-up call for other businesses considering investing in autonomous vessels.