COLREG 2 - Potential consequences of varying algorithms in traffic situations

Report, 2023

Many academic papers suggest different solutions how the COLREGs may be implemented in algorithms but the parameters controlling how close quarters situations are avoided may potentially differ depending on the type of used algorithm and its settings. When tuning a collision avoidance algorithm for a specific ship and voyage, the effects and potential consequences are basically unknown without an in-depth understanding and testing of the algorithm. This report highlights the potential effect of a limited number of input parameters of an algorithm and simulations indicate that the variances in parameters and their values result in different actions taken and that the predictability of autonomous ships in a traffic situation may be poor.