The EU-funded EfficienSea2 project (ES2), which aims to implement innovative and smart solutions to support efficient, safe and sustainable traffic at sea, has undertaken a full-scale simulation of a wide variety of e-Navigation solutions.
Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden, one of the ES2 partners, ran the simulations over 4 days using 8 navigators. The navigators used a range of e-Navigation services including digitalized Navigation Warnings and an interactive VTS-reporting system in a full mission bridge simulated environment. The navigators planned their route before entering the simulator and had access to the BalticWeb tools to assist them. This web-based tool was used during the simulation to present new services to the mariners. As a demonstrator for e-Navigation solutions it provides an example of ES2 solutions in an ‘easy to use’ map-based platform which is easy to adapt for presentation on other maritime platforms making use of the Maritime Cloud – the centerpiece of the ES2 project.
Digital technology and systems provide almost limitless possibilities but bring with them added complexity and increased burdens on navigators. The results gained from the simulations will feed into the development and implementation of new digital services to ensure that navigators can be provided with timely and accessible information and focus on their primary task of safe navigation.
Human factors testing is an integral part of the ES2 project and the 32 partners involved all work to develop solutions with an eye towards the impact on seafarers. The project also includes Force Technology and Chalmers University of Technology, both leading in the field of human element and human-machine interfaces.
By Andy Winbow, CIRM’s EfficienSea2 Consultant