Abstract

This paper will stress the importance of Ship Handling Simulation (SHS)-based Maritime Autonomous Surface Ship (MASS) prototype development and aligns it with the IMO Guidelines on Software Quality Assurance and Humancentered Design for e-Navigation. This is demonstrated by means of an implemented semi-autonomous ship concept. This concept envisions a periodically unmanned bridge with an advanced autonomous navigation system taking over in the absence of the officer of the watch. Thus, it is equipped with autonomous monitoring, collision avoidance as well as harsh weather applications embedded within an ECDIS environment, that require sufficient integration and testing. Based on a requirement analyses, the need for SHS-based testing is derived and a technical framework (SMARTframe) enabling connection of MASS prototypes with SHS on the basis of a message-oriented middleware is introduced. Finally, an indication is given how this set-up ensures proper MASS testing and developing for technical as well as Human-centered Design development.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of the thesis is to define functional requirements for sustainable short sea logistics system from ports’ perspective. Research methodology: In this study, a qualitative research methodology is applied. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to collect data from various port representatives. Systemic approach was employed. The collected data was analyzed by using systems engineering method – requirements analysis. Results: Analysis shows that port representatives have quite similar attitudes towards sustainability in short sea shipping and see the role of ports as a vital element in multimodal transportation system. Main requirements for sustainable short sea logistics system, as were derived, are: centralized port network ownership, single digital platform for communication between parties, advanced telematics and control systems for cargo handling and infrastructure development in and outside the ports. Contribution: This study contributes to the knowledge creation on sustainability in short sea logistics from ports’ perspective.